A Twist on Things [Day #4]

We all have our favorite colors. Oftentimes you're color reflects you're personality. For instance, my very energetic brothers favorite color is neon yellow, and my shy friends favorite is gray. Get the picture? My favorite is often a mix between allot of different colors. I'd say blue is my favorite, but I find myself wearing purple quite often. I realized I wear quite a bit of purple, without even realizing it. :P Yet, this post wasn't created for me to babble about favorite colors. But to inform you that you can use the colors that looks good on you, or you're favorite colors [Or both!] to you're advantage.

The twist today is this: An outfit with all different shades of purple. I paired a purple skirt with grey stripes with a light cotton black spaghetti strap shirt. This shirt is a life saver. It is multi faceted, thus I can wear this shirt with black, green, or purple. To add the finishing touches to this hipster outfit, I put a purple headband on, purple sparkly shoes and some retro style glasses. I really think it ended up working. All the different colors of purple kind of pulled together by adding the extra pieces.





Now you go find you're favorite color and use it to twist you're outfits up!

A Twist on Things [Day #3]

Sewing days are especially fun when you make something spectacular out of random scraps of fabric. A Twist on Things day #3 will be able to attest to this. Out of extra fabric scraps and a thin piece of elastic I was able to create a lightweight, sparkly scarf. ;) It was definitely a piece I've been *wanting* to wear, but just couldn't find an outfit that it fit with. But, have no fear...because today I overcame that thought. I paired this fun, glittery scarf with equally glittery oxfords and a brown bubble dress. Finishing it off with a brown vintage belt with a gold buckle. These oxfords have been my recent love. I've always loved the oxford look, but never felt as if I could fit the style quite right. After finding these at DSW, there was no...and I mean..NO reason I shouldn't get them. [Aside from the fact that they cost me an arm and a leg.] ;) They have definitely been worth it though, and I believe they will be equally helpful as they are now throughout the fall.

The twist today is basically the centerpiece of the outfit: the scarf. What was once a normal, cute dress -- just became a statement. I even think that the Man Repeller would be proud of me. O.o




[Statue Pose] ;)

Good luck with the twisting!
<3Jane

A Twist on Things [Day #2]

Today I felt as if I should try the whole Cropped shirt and high waisted shorts look that we talked about last week. I paired a crop sweater/shirt with some high waisted shorts. Let me tell you a little story about these shorts, I brought these shorts at a consignment store that had some vintage pieces in the back. I found these shorts and thought about them for a few minutes before I made the choice of getting them. The price tag kind of coaxed me into it. I mean, how can you pass up shorts for $2.00? I know I definitely couldn't. So the twist is mainly the fact that I wore a cropped top with high waisted shorts. Because even though I don't consider it a big deal, oftentimes others do. ;)

Here's to twisting things up, and cropped shirts. ;)





Love,
<3Jane

Taking a Twist on Things [Day #1]

     
        Oftentimes everyday life can get mushy, it gets tedious, tiring and you find yourself doing the "Same old, same old." This happens throughout the year, but in summer -- the apathy just seems to creep in. Not only do we seem to encounter a new layer of apathy, we seem to get lousy at the tasks at hand. We don't just simply have a lack of interest, oftentimes we pick up a lack of willingness to work at things, get things done, etc.

        This predicament has leaked into fashion a bit. Where I live, everyone is often tempted to wear a tank and shorts everyday, because of the heat. [Not saying I don't do this..] But I was simply experimenting with ideas of how to make summer outfits interesting and fun. Not always sticking with shorts and a tank, or for nicer occasions: a tank and a skirt. But instead, looking for different options. Looking through creative eyes. Instead of going with the flow and picking "easy" summer outfits, try taking a twist on things. I've been trying this recently...well...honestly, my life is a whole journey of taking twists on things. ;) But putting that aside, it's pivotal for wana-be fashion icons [Such as you and I] to always be coming up with new fashion ideas and to tune into our creative fashion side. Yes, even throughout the hot, slow and dreary summer.

        So this week I will be Practicing what I Preach [as some people put it]. I will post every day this week on a fun and quirky outfit, these outfits will indeed, be taking a twist on things.

       Having explained myself, lets hop right into Day #1's Twist. I found this adorable jumper/dress type thing while thrift store shopping with the Touche De Mode girls. It is most definitely vintage [60's-70's] and quite the eye catcher. As soon as I saw it I knew I'd get it, but some of the girls were a little skeptical of it [As is wise..;)] So, I tried it on, and was able to prove to them, that was indeed a great catch. [Can I add that it was only a couple bucks?] It was definitely a good decision. I tried working with it for a bit, seeing what styles I should try with it, what "Twists" I could afford to pull off. I ended up pairing it with gladiator sandals and a vintage white belt with a gold buckle. I got hooked as soon as I tried this look, I absolutely loved it, I must admit. ;) And I hope you do too. :)

                                                 [Move back bugs]

         Yes, if anyone knows me, they know that there's got to be a couple quirky pictures mixed in with the normal ones. As I continue to take risks and twists, I'd adamantly suggest you to do the same this week.

Here...we..go.

Top Knots

Often when one hears the word "Top Knots" they instantly think of a top hat. Or they could think of a top hat with a knot on top. Or just a rope on top of a tree. Or...oh, never mind. The bottom line is the world isn't quite accustomed to the Top Knot, as a style feature. It hasn't been an actual "Item" until recently. Now everyone's longing to have their hair long enough to try a Top Knot. ;)I thought and thought about Top Knots, and why they have become a hit. It was then when I realized that Top Knots were indeed a fashion statement. A pretty awesome one, at that. Everyone has different opinions of Top Knots. But I hope today, to persuade you that Top Knots are not only awkward, they can be geeky, chic, hott and just plain adorable. :)

Lets start out with the typical, awkward and ugly Top Knots:

Well first things first, please don't purposefully try and make it look like you have a plate of meatballs sitting on top of your head. Tyra Banks gives us a great example of how NOT to wear a Top Knot. No meat heads, please.



And if you have larger ears [I'm not hatin, I'm jus sayin] or your ears naturally are farther out than normal, please don't slick your hair back, or else it will just attract unneeded attention to them. JLo ended up making her head look strange and her ears look elf-like, with her Top Knot. Where she went wrong: She slicked back the front of her hair. If you indeed have that type of face, please add volume, keep bangs down, or add poof. Whoops, JLo strikes AGAIN. ;)



On the last ugly note, I want to encourage you not to purposefully make your hair look like a Sumo Wrestlers. Please, just...don't.



I think we've learned that Top Knots can be pretty, terrible. Yet, don't worry...Top Knots can also be pretty sexy at times. If you are Vanessa anne Hudgens. One of HSM's biggest star's knows how to own the Top Knot. That's what I'm talkin' about!



Shenae Grimes not only has amaaaazing top knots, her style is awesome! She rocks her Top Knots.



Now let's go the "Cute and Geeky" route. If you have thick bangs, this look will work pretty well for you.



Or, if you're Sydney from the Daybook! [Can I just say, I love this lady. Her style=incredible]





Alright, well I think my work here is done. If you got lost somewhere along the way, I was trying to persuade you that Top Knots can be the best fashion statement anyone has ever made. It's 'Awkward and Awesome!' [As Sydney would say] ;) And i've been trying it out a bit myself, check it out.





;)

The Royal Wedding

Friday morning I woke up quite early, along with a third of the world. To watch, the one and only: Royal Wedding. There were so many incredible aspects of the royal wedding that I wish to share with you. Yet, this post will merely stick to fashion. Ah, Britain's Fashion, its exquisite! It was such a fun experience for me to see. If you'd like to hear a little more about my whole experience, you can do so by going here.

Kate has inspired a whole new sense of fashion for us as Americans. She is truly a fashion icon, and will be for many years to come. Specifically her style in regards to hats. We saw many during her engagement, and were enthralled with them. For the wedding, it was very important for the attendee's to wear appropriate and fashionable hats. Such is not only a custom there, it's a fashion statement. That being said, let me share with you Jane's favorite's out of the bunch.

-- Delightful Hats --

1. Carole Middleton
Kate's mother, picked a wonderful outfit. It was flattering, but not too flashy. Her hat was gorgeous. Her makeup was simple and not over the top, but still showed her beauty. Her accessories were simple but elegant. Perfect look for a mother of the bride.

2. Miriam González Durántez
She certainly did make a statement. There are different views regarding this outfit and hat. But my personal view is that it is incredibly elegant, but a bit flashy and loud at the same time. Think what you will about Mariam's outfit. But I believe it was a hit.

3. Lady Frederick Windsor
Her blue was fabulous. Her dress was fitted well and her hat was MARVELOUS.

4. Princess Letizia of Spain
She was so tiny, you might of missed her. But if you did, you missed the most adorable little fashionista you've ever seen! Her hat was wonderful. And the color, ah. Such a beautiful pink, and went great with her complexion. She was one of my favorites.

5. Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece
Her color was also gorgeous. A light silvery blue, it was fabulous. The flower arrangement on the hat was quite charming.

6. Victoria And David Beckham
This was a pleasant surprise for me. For the wedding, Victoria looked like a different person. She did a great job in not standing out. And the hat was a fit. Her hair was just right for the event and makeup. She did great, this time. ;) And David, looked amazing. The coat, the tie and the top hat..they were all just adorable. Even though, you are not supposed to wear your own awards to a wedding and are supposed to wear it on the left when you do. Oh well, I guess that's what you get for living in America. Lowering standards, elevating self. ;) Overall they were a lovely couple.

There were so many others, but the last ones that stood out to me the most were these gorgeous girls. After a long search of trying to find their names I simply gave up. But I still wanted to credit them, because they looked incredible.

Also, can we all give credit to Pippa Middleton? She was the best bridesmaid..ever. Hands-down.



Now that we've seen a couple that I love, let's look at a few misses.

-- Not-so-Delightful Hats --

1. Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice
If you haven't seen pictures of the royal wedding yet, or had time to watch it..i'm sure you heard about these girls hats. Because it's ALL over the news! Especially Eugenie's. For..not so good reasons. They looked...very interesting. The first thought that came through my mind as they arrived was "Evil step-sisters much?" they didn't bring off a good vibe, at all. They kind of seemed to leave a bad taste in my mouth. Even though Eugenie's outfit wasn't necessarily..too bad. [It was just bland] The hat completely distracted from it. Also, Beatrice's outfit wasn't elegant in the least. And didn't help her figure. Sadly enough, this isn't the first time they have worn such horrendous hats. Eugenie and Beatrice strike out AGAIN.

2. Tara Parker Tomkinson
This was a bit interesting. Her hat reminded me of a boat, and the blue was almost unbearable. Blue, if done right is fine. But this bright blue, for every single part of your outfit just doesn't work. But, Tara wasn't just the one who missed..her friend, or whoever was with her made me seriously laugh..loud. Peacock feathers, thats fine. But it looked as if a whole peacock came and sat upon her head. And then another animal was on her shoulders. Come on, PETA would NOT be proud! A little too much for a vegetarian like me to be able to handle. ;)


Overall the experience of simply seeing the wedding was incredible. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I admit, I am SUCH a girl.

Spring Fashion Trends

Spring has arrived and the question has arisen: "What shall I wear this spring?" What IS in style regarding Spring Fling Fashioning? Have no fear, I am about to reveal to you the most adorable style trends and fashionable pieces that are paramount for the beginning of the spring.

1. Let's start out with my favorite -- TURBANS! :) You'll probably thinking..."Waiiit, these are in style now!?" I will assure you that it's probably not the "Turban" your thinking of. It's the fashion Turban. Audrey Hepburn, Liz Taylor, and all the fashion stars wore them. They are fun, you can wear them with your hair up or down, and there great for bad hair days or busy days. ;) Turbans are so fun, and thankfully they are currently in style once again!

2. Leg warmers! They are undoubtedly incredible! I wear leg warmers often, because they are fun and easy. It really depends on where you live, if you can wear leg warmers in the spring. If you live in Tx, its better to stick with leg warmers for the winter. But other more chilly spring environments, they work perfectly. They are a fashion statement, obviously. But, a very fun one at that! ;) WARNING: There is a RIGHT way and a WRONG way to wear leg warmers.

Right way:

Wrong way:


Catch my drift?

3. Printed Tights. These are so fun, and in fashion! Your own personality easily can be displayed through your tights. I love wearing bright tights, and now, theres printed tights! :) So adorable.





4. Bright Cropped Pants. For spring this look works perfectly. Because they are not "Pants" But not "Shorts" which is a nice in between. They often look good on all body types, it depends on the pants. The skinny look is my favorite though. These are easy for making fast outfits. Take a bright pair of pants, pair it with solid shoes and a solid shirt. Or, if your a bit riskier, but a muted floral shirt with it. Theres a ton of ideas that you can use with cropped pants. But overall, it's a quick and easy cute spring outfit idea!





5. Last of all -- Bright and bold lip colors. This is a bit of a riskier spring fashion idea. But the fact of the matter remains: IT'S IN. So don't feel scared when your about to wear bright pink lipstick for the first time to work. But, please...please...use discretion. Bright and Bold doesn't look good on some people. And bright and bold lip's don't go with some outfits. So please, think before you apply. ;) But Beauty High illustrated this concept perfectly.

These are just a portion of the cute style trends of Spring. Hope they gave you some rockin' idea's as to how to be effortlessly fashionable this spring. :)

The Many Uses of {TULLE}

Tulle is magical. It can be used for all sorts of purposes [yes indeed]. If you merely think outside the original box you'll find that tulle is..simply put: AMAZING.

Let's review the whole concept of tulle. Well, if you're not familiar with tulle - it is a sheer type of fabric that is often used as a ribbon/bow. But, the cool thing about that, is that it doesn't have to be a simple bow that you tie over a wrapped gift, you can use it as a hair accessory - like I do often. This adorable tulle flower hair bow is easy to make and cuuuuute. :)



But Tulle isn't limited to one cute accessories. NO WAY. It also can be made into an adorable headband. Like this girl did:


[Taken from here]

I found out the other day that Tulle can also be used as a make-shift belt [I swear]


[Yes, this was one of those nasty --snap a quick pic in the mirror-- picture]

Tulle can also be used as embellishments on shirts or some pieces of clothing.





Of course, we cannot forget the ultimate Tulle skirts. Tulle skirts are easy to make and are very FUN to make. [Making another Tulle skirt is on my to-do list..just so you know. ;)]




[Both taken from here]

But please don't assume that Tulle is only good for clothing accessories. Tulle is a great decorating tool. [See what I just did there] ;) I have around two big pink tulle bows in my room just on my wall or tied onto something. Then I threw a bunch of Tulle scraps into a vase. Tulle is once again -- AMAZING. Please, PLEASE, go buy some tulle. Come up with creative uses for it. And blog about it.

DO IT. ;)

My take on the Oscars

Every person has a different take on the Oscars. Who deserved an Oscar? who's dress was prettiest? Which host was the absolute best?

These opinions are your own to keep. But, here at touche de mode we do some assessments. Analyzing who's dresses were best fitted, color toned correctly and the like. That being said here is...

Jane's take on fashion at the Oscars

Let's first take the wonderful hostess of the night: Who, but Anne Hathaway! :)
In my opinion she was a hilarious hostess, keeping things interesting. Even though, there were some awkward moments. "It's a great year for Lesbians"...but aside from that, she not only preformed beautifully, for the most part, she dressed magnificently.

For example, lets take the first dress she appeared in. The Vintage Valentino was a perfect combination, and very pretty. A few minor issues I had with this dress is the fitting on her bust, not only was it pretty low, but it just didn't compliment her upper body. Aside from that, the color was gorgeous, the dress itself was beautiful, and I was impressed. :)



Now let's view all the other amazing and not-so-amazing changes she had. First starting out with her white look. This one of of my very favorites. It fit her well and she wore it with elegance. Need I say more? Now the blue "plasticy" one in the middle was a toss-up. It really depends on if you like this look. But if we look at the aspects of it, we see the fit was nice, the color was complimentary on her, and it was fitting. But, like I said, it depends on if you like that style. The one on the far right is what made me want to call her a Duck. I believed she did indeed, look like a duck. The whole feathered look, the hair, the necklace. This one didn't fly for me. It made me think teen prom-meets-duck-meets-moose-meets-tree. :P



For her serenade [More like hate song] to Hugh Jackman, she wore a suit. This suit had it's perks. For instance the TO DIE FOR, beautiful shoes she donned, with her gorgeous button. The downsides to the suit -- her jacket seemed a bit long. And the bow-tie: The founders of Touche de mode came to a conclusion. Bow-ties on girls just aren't ok. On guys? Of course! But girls...no. So, the bow-tie wasn't a go for me. The middle dress - the maroon one, was one of my favorites! :) I completely loved this. The color, her hair, the fit. Every element of that dress was beautiful. The black bedazzled dress to the right was a disaster. The cut, no. The undertone, no. The hair, no. It was just a nasty dress. I liked the jewels, but how it was constructed was just...not alright. ;)



The very last dress that we cannot forget about, is the sparkly, fringe, gold dress. This one, was adorable. And you could tell, she loved it too. ;) Everything about this dress was good in my opinion.



Anne Hathaway did a good job in my opinion. But luckily enough, she wasn't the only one. Some of my other favorites were: Cate Blanchett, Hailee Steinfeld, Natalie Portman and Amy Adams. Lets take a look at my first 3 favorites.

Cate Blanchett's dress was unique. It wasn't like anyone Else's, it has it's own personality. It had mixed colors, it was different. I respect that. I really do love the shell-like beading and the whole build of the dress. I thought it was very pretty. But, it all depends on your perspective. Many people, including some Touche De Mode girls don't agree on this dress. But, my personal opinion is that, it's AWESOME.



If you haven't seen the infamous True Grit, then you might not be familiar of this face. The face of the first 14 year old to be nominated for best supporting actress. The adorable: Hailee Steinfeld. Her fashion taste is impeccable. Not only is it flattering, but she seems to always dress in a very age-appropriate way. I admire that. I loved how she pulled off this vintage look quite beautifully.



Now to Natalie Portman. Well, I'd never thought I'd see the day where I'd praise Natalie Portman's Fashion taste. She's had some..pretty awful tournouts. [The SAG awards? GAG-GAG.]But her dress for the Oscars was very well done.



Now for the hate. The dresses I absolutely despised were Jennifer Hudson, Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon,and lots of others.

First and foremost the one and only Jennifer Hudson!Her dress was a train wreck. I can't talk long about this dress, because it makes me shudder convulsively. Yes, I am indeed adding a picture for your own amusement. I want to warn you beforehand, you might have nightmares about orange blobs and deformed looking bust's. Her hair, the back of the dress, everything just makes me stomach feel unpleasant.



You would at least think the would pick good shoes right? Not. She decided to bank her luck on clunky purple [YES PURPLE] platform shoes. *Gasping for air*



Sadly enough, it doesn't stop there. Reese Witherspoon had to sport her Barbie-blonde cliche look also. This disappointed me. She normally has such good fashion picks. But this time...she let me down. What was up with that hair? First thing I thought was clip on hair pony tail much? It looks like the cheapy kind you get at the grocery store and clip to your hair. It wasn't classy. And the dress, looked like a bridesmaid dress you can find at the resale store, or better yet...davids bridal [Nasty]. And her jewelry...seriously...green? Now your the green fake haired blonde? Oh, that's even better.



But, lets not end on a sour note. Seeing all of the outfits, I'd say there was some beautiful dresses. I enjoyed admiring most of them, the Oscars is always a fun time. You don't have to agree with my views, because they are - my own. But I hope you still enjoyed Jane's take on the Oscars. :)

My very last favorite was Livia Firth's outfit. The Firth's are one classy Couple.