Wedding Dress Shopping Rules

You’re getting married and you’re ready to find a dress! We get it. It’s not easy choosing that ever-important white gown, yet it’s easy to fall prey to some of the faux pas that I’ll be outlining in this very post. Keep away from these while shopping for the perfect gown and you’ll have a stress-free shopping experience. Check them out below and let me know if they help you while you’re shopping for your wedding dress!

Looking Too Early- Try to avoid finding your dress too early after the engagement. Give yourself at least 12 months before you seek out your dress. Your interests, along with the look and feel of your wedding could change. Avoid added stress and find a dress you love closer to your wedding date.

Trying On Too Many Dresses- It’s a proven fact that too many options make us unhappy and make it more difficult for us to make a decision. I know there are millions of wedding dress stores in this world, but try to keep your search down to three stores at most. If you’ve already got a look in mind, try to find it instead of trying on every dress out there. Make your search easier so you can say yes to the dress!

Avoid Huge Sales- Just because it’s a cheap designer gown on discount doesn’t mean that you love it. In fact, avoid steep discounts altogether as they could easily sway you into picking out a dress you don’t really love. I’m all for a deal but only if you’re 1000% in love with the dress, otherwise put the dress back on the hanger and walk away.

Bringing The Whole Family- Your wedding, let alone shopping for the perfect dress, is hard enough without hearing input from the entire peanut gallery. Keep your family and your friends at home. They’ll see the dress along with everyone else at the wedding. Bring some trusted friends or your sister, whose opinion your trust, rather then everyone you know.

 Keep styling

Angelika

www.styleupbyangel.com

( credit: L.R.)

Winter Trend : Hot to wear Denim

Denim, hands down, is one of the most reliable fashion pieces there is. Perfect for all seasons, it is especially ideal for the cold seasons – especially this chilly autumn. If you want to give your denim pieces a chic fashion kick, then here are some ideas that can help you piece dynamic denim ensembles for fall.

STYLE IT WITH SHORTS

As with skirts, playful layering can help you wear your shorts this autumn. Wear it with a leather jacket – a denim jacket even – and you can transform your ragged denim shorts into a blog-worthy fashion piece.

DENIM ON DENIM

This might be the hardest look to pull off, but with the right styling, you can make this combination drool-worthy. For best results, wear contrasting washes, such as the example below (light and dark.)

ROCK IT WITH A JUMPSUIT

Looking for a reason to wear your denim jumpsuit? Well, you are in luck as fall is here and winter is coming. Pulling this off is easy, all you just need is a sweater (or a tank and jacket) and you can parade around town like a trendy kid.

MAKE IT WITH A JACKET

A great thing about fall is it enables you to wear your favorite denim jacket. This piece is so versatile you can virtually wear it with anything. Pair it with a lacey dress (or a simple top and leggings) and still look like a supermodel.

Keep styling

Angelika

www.styleupbyangel.com

( credit: L.R.)

Trendguide: Fluted Skirts

Fluted skirts are very versatile and they’re universally flattering as well. If you’re looking for a skirt that will give you a shapely silhouette or something that can balance out a rather robust curve then this is something that you should definitely consider adding to your wardrobe. The fluted skirt also goes by a lot of other names including the mermaid skirt, the trumpet skirt and the flared hem skirt. It can be worn to achieve lots of different looks from the 20s flapper look to a simple but flirty modern day look. If you’re thinking of getting your hands on one soon, check out these ideas on how to wear a fluted skirt for inspiration.

1. For the office – one really nice way to wear a fluted skirt is to wear it with either a dressy button up or a blazer and wear it to the office. The fluted skirt makes a really nice alternative to the usual pencil skirt and is perfect on days when you just want to look and feel a little bit more girly than usual and less formal and stuffy. Make sure to keep the rest of your outfit more structured to keep the look appropriate for the office instead of looking more casual.

2. With a chunky / heavy top – if you’re trying to achieve that slouchy yet chic look for fall, the fluted skirt is one of the best things that you can wear to get it. Wear a chunky / heavy top like a sweater or a cape and pair it up with your fluted skirt and you have yourself an easy, relaxed and laidback look that’s perfect for lazy days. 

3. Back to basics – lastly, if you’re looking for a way to get the most bang for your buck from purchasing a fluted skirt, I would suggest getting a basic one in a fairly neutral color. This makes it easier for you to mix and match your fluted skirt with anything, no matter what color, style, cut or level of frilliness it may have.

Keep styling

Angelika

(credit: L.R.)

How to Wear Your Skinny Jeans

Skinny jeans have pretty much taken over the fashion world and I’m pretty sure anyone has at least one pair of these in their closets. I think it’s really not hard to see why skinny jeans are so popular. First of all, they look great on just about anyone then there’s the fact that they’re really versatile so they’re easy to mix and match with the rest of your wardrobe. If you’re a fan of skinny jeans (and I don’t know too many people who aren’t), check out these fresh and fabulous tips on how to style your skinny jeans for any look.

 

 



CLASSIC STYLE – of course, if you don’t want anything too bold or too fancy, you can always stick to the basics and do a classic style with your skinny jeans. This means wearing your skinnies straight up with no froufrou whatsoever. To keep your whole look from being boring, though, you can add accessories that would make it more interesting. Picking out a gorgeous top to wear with your skinny jeans would help heaps, too, but know that there’s nothing wrong with going classic all the way as well (read: white top, skinny jeans).


CUTE AND CROPPED – even when you don’t have supermodel status legs like Karlie Kloss, you can still pull off cropped skinny jeans as long as you get a pair in the right length. Ideally, you’ll want your cropped skinny jeans to hit the skinniest part of your legs. At this length, you cropped skinnies will make your legs look longer and more slender. Pair it up with heels to get the most out of the elongating illusion or with flats or sneakers to keep a casual vibe.

 

 

CHUNKY BUDDY – got a chunky sweater that makes you look bigger than you like? Or maybe you finally got into the trend and got yourself and oversized cape coat that’s way too big (don’t worry, that’s how they should be anyway)? The best way to look fabulous in any top too big, too thick and too chunky is to keep a slim silhouette on your lower half and that’s what skinny jeans are really good for.

 

Keep styling

Angelika

www.styleupbyangel.com

(credit: L.R.)

 

Honeymoon Destinations

So your big day is coming up; the ceremony is all planned, the flowers and décor are picked out and your dress is simply breathtaking. But have you put equally as much thought into the vacation post the wedding? Now is the time to focus on what could be considered as the best part of the wedding, the honeymoon. While weddings are an exciting time all on their own, the vacation that follows is meant to give you the time to relax and enjoy one another. For most, this is the vacation of a lifetime and one that is both romantic and fun. So don’t leave anything to chance when it comes to your honeymoon and regardless of you budget find the designation that right is for you. Here are my favorites, happy planning! 

If you’re a sporty and active couple on the hunt for a honeymoon filled with killer beach activities, Turks and Caicos is the perfect spot. Between scuba diving, windsurfing and boating, this Caribbean adventure will leave you feeling even more in love.

How about an idyllic road trip up the coast of Maine? Sip your coffee while lounging in a picturesque Adirondack chair by the sea, while enjoying lobster rolls and crisp New England air. Romantic walks along the beach and the quaint setting will leave you lovebirds feeling totally relaxed and focused on one another.

Are you both super adventurous, looking for a trip with memories that will last a lifetime? How about making your honeymoon a trip to the wilds you won’t forget. Totally lavish and exclusive, a safari excursion in Africa offers the ultimate in luxury and adventure all wrapped into one.

Are you planning your honeymoon right now? Have any of these swayed your decision? 

Keep styling

Angelika

www.styleupbyangel.com

(credit:L.R.)

Party Favor Ideas For Your Wedding

So, your wedding is just around the corner and you’re getting pretty excited, but those last few details are still waiting to be finalized, right? Between seating charts and song selections, getting down to the finer points is pretty fun, but you’re also just ready for the big day to arrive. One of the best parts of a wedding is getting to have all your favorite people in the same room, at the same time – and sending those guests home with something special is an excellent way to thank them for making the trip. From sweets to trinkets, here’s a look at some great party favor ideas for your weddings. 

Hot Sauce

Flip Flops

Apple  Pie Filling

Garden seeds

What was the best wedding favor you’ve ever received?

Keep wedding

Angelika

www.styleupbyangel.com

( credit: L.R.)

Fall Wedding

One of the most popular times of year for weddings, fall is an excellent choice when it comes to setting the date. From the crisp autumn air to the bright, blue sky and changing leaves, Mother Nature offers a backdrop that can’t be beat. Planning ahead for slightly cooler temps with fun wedding additions like a cozy fire and wraps or blankets for guests are just a few of the ways a fall wedding is unique. Here’s a look at fall wedding ideas from around the web.

 

 

 

We do :-)

 

 

 

Keep wedding

Angelika

www.styleupbyangel.com

(credit: L.R.)

 



Gift Ideas - Bridesmaids

One of the best parts of getting married is getting to choose the special ladies in your life to walk down the aisle with you. Your bridal party consists of lifelong friends, sisters, sisters-in-laws, cousins, college roommates…you name it. All your favorite women who have touched your life in some way will now stand by your side as you say “I do.” Once everything is settled – flowers, dresses, shoes and showers, it’s your chance to show your wedding party how much you love and appreciate all they have done. Choosing bridesmaids gifts should be lots of fun with individualized attention that leaves no one out. Check out these ideas for the best bridesmaids gifts around and give your girls something they’ll cherish forever...

Elegant and classic : monogrammed notecards  

A soft and stunning  cashmere wrap

Perfect Pearl earrings 

A time-tested  tote-bag  – excellent for lugging around all their wedding gear

  

A gorgeous and ultra-feminine robe  

Have you ever received a bridesmaid gift that you just loved and have cherished for years? What made it so special? xo

Keep wedding

Angelika

www.styleupbyangel.com

( credit: L.R. + Skyla Walton)

HOW TO SHOP DURING SALES

Your favorite shop just announced that they’re having an insane sale of up to 75% off – of course you’re going to check it out! But before you do, here are my golden rules for shopping sales that will save you time and money on items that aren’t actually worth the sales tag let alone withstanding the crowds and reading between the lines of the return policies.

• Only buy something you really love or actually need – don’t get caught up in the low prices and buy something useless.

• If it’s on sale, buy the piece you couldn’t otherwise afford.
• If it doesn’t fit in the shop that probably won’t change by the time you get home. Be honest with yourself when you’re trying on items.
• Never buy anything too small. Only buy something too large if you have an amazing tailor you feel confident can make the piece fit.
• Avoid the boring classics – it’s better to buy them on your own good time in a solid shop but there is no danger of being panicked into a buy where you know you can always take things back.
• Keep away from anything in a bin with “special purchase” attached to it – you will spend more money than it is worth.
• If there’s something you’ve really set your heart on and you know it’s going to be reduced, have patience and wait for it. In the meantime, stay away for fear of falling in love with the item and blindly purchasing.
• Don’t be tempted to buy something in a wild colored or crazy print you would never wear simply because it’s 50%+ off.

Before you part with your hard-earned cash, check the shops refund policy – if it doesn’t work out you want to be able to take it back.........

Keep styling

Angelika

www.styleupbyangel.com

( credit: L.R. & Italian Vogue 1992)

TRENDGUIDE: SKIRTS 2014

Finally, it’s that time of year to officially put away the heavy winter clothes, shave your legs, and start donning your favorite summer skirts. Trends for 2014 encompass almost every style, with the skirtbeing the key piece in every wardrobe. If you haven’t yet found that perfect skirt for you, here are a few options to give you a warm weather update.

• Experiment with a classic nautical striped skirt and style it in an unexpected way. Avoid bright white and mix it with other prints and patterns. My favorite combinations are polka dots or floral with stripes!

• Try out the sheer trend this season, but make sure not to bare too much. A lace paneled skirt shows just a bit more of the leg, but also adds a hint of demure femininity to your look. Tuck in a chambray shirt or graphic tee and also consider adding a fun shoe or bootie.

• If you’re not a fan of the more girly A-line skirts, the faux wrap skirt is another fun option for summer. The uneven hem in front offers a sharper more directional style to your more classic combinations.

• I absolutely love the ease and romance of a good maxi skirt! These Boho beauties of fashion can be matched with everything from crop tops to lightweight sweaters and jackets. The best thing is that maxi skirts can often transition into the cooler weather months. All you need to do is throw on a warm pair of leggings underneath!

• A flared skirt can offer a fun and  flirty approach to daytime dressing in warm weather. Add a printed top or tee, a flat sandal and a bright lip for a fresh summer look.

• One of my favorite past trends that has recently made a comeback is pleats. And pleats are back in a big way. This classic trend can be dressed up or down. A soft peachy color can be paired with neutrals and oversized accessories for a polished look, or mixed with patterns or floral for a more traditional style.

• Technical fabrics are super popular and easy to wear because they hold their shape and don’t cling. A scuba, neoprene fabric skirt has a feminine shape, but a sporty feel and is an awesome option for all body types.

 Keep styling

Angelika

www.styleupbyangel.com

(credit: L.R.)

TO MIX DIFFERENT TEXTURES

Even though my wardrobe has a distinctly feminine style, sometimes I love to venture outside of my comfort zone and thrown in the unpredictable pieces–like a bit of pleather mixed with my favorite lace top or classic pleats paired with a chambray shirt. Combining textures within one outfit is an easy way to maximize your wardrobe and add a little spice to your personal style, but if you haven’t yet experimented with it ....

LACE & DENIM : 

A closet staple for every woman should be a denim jacket or a denim jeans. While you may be tempted to pair your jacket with a classic flannel or white jeans, combining denim with lace is another option for dressing up an all-American must-have. The dusty pink of the lace skirt perfectly complements the rustic appearance of this jacket style and, ultimately, boosts this look to another level of sophistication.

LEATHER

As a self-proclaimed girly-girl, I never understood the attraction of leather looks until recently. A couple of months ago I purchased my first pleather-accented top and it has become one of my absolute favorites! Realistically, you won’t find me wearing studs, biker boots, or a full-on leather jacket anytime soon, but I’ve grown accustomed to the look of leather mixed with my feminine pieces. This rose jacquard full skirt paired with a chic leather top will strike the perfect balance of femininity and edge.

What are some of your favorite texture combinations? Sound off in the comment section, I can’t wait to get more ideas!! xo

Keep styling

Angelika

www.styleupbyangel.com

( credit: L.R.)