Holiday Fashion from Anthropologie

I hope everyone had a fabulous Christmas and is enjoying the "afterglow." Remember, the real point of the holiday (Jesus, coming to the earth as a little baby) should be celebrated all year round. (More on that in the future... ;)

And, undoubtably, the parties are not over for all of you. I know that the holiday season always stretches into the New Year for me... not only because that's when the Flynn family usually holds their Christmas party, but because of the excitement and anticipation of the new year. So, if you are still stuck on what to wear for those last few holiday events, or just any event, here's some unusual fashion inspiration from Anthropologie.

The thing that struck me about these outfits was what unique and mismatched combinations they are. And yet, they work. Sometimes it's not about getting everything to match perfectly, but to bring together a bunch of incredible pieces and make them work together. It's strange how almost every one of the pieces used in this series of photos could be the sole showcased item in an entire outfit; and yet, all of them together creates an unusual harmony. I like it. :)

This shares quite a few things in common with the outfit shown at the top of this post; a bold statement dress, dark patterned tights, a strong yet simple jacket or sweater, and tall boots. While there are quite a few things going on in both looks (such as the dress and patterned tights) things are kept from being too wild with simple a jacket/sweater and plain boots. Contrary to popular belief, you can mix and match patterns, but don't go too crazy. ;)

It's also neat to see how a sleeveless, rather short dress can be taken entirely from summer to winter just by covering up and adding tights. Of course, you can carry the look into evening by losing the tights and jacket and adding some high heels...

Another amazing and yet harmonious pairing of statement pieces. Once again, a lightweight summery dress goes "winter" when it is covered up by a a beautifully ruffled, knit vest. This piece is quite bulky, but it works because of the smooth and fitted dress underneath. Simple, opaque tights keep it cozy and it's capped off by amazing t-strap platform heels and some hair bling. (So glad that pretty headpieces are "in!" :)

I just love every separate piece in this look, especially the "Ruched Pansy Tee," which adds a fabulous burst of color to this rather "neutral" ensemble. It looks especially great tucked into the awesome cuffed trousers (always try your tops both ways - you may be surprised by what looks the best). The checked blazer could be worn on its own as a button-up top, but looks equally stunning as the outer layer of the look. Of course, there are some great strappy sandals for a finishing touch. Remember, it's ok to wear open-toe "warm weather" shoes with a winter outfit, so long as it works.

The neat thing about this ensemble is how unexpected it is. The top (so gorgeous!) and the corduroy pants are pretty classic and work well together... but the rest of it is not so "by the book." First of all, the cloche hat, while it matches nicely, is not what you usually pair with a sleeveless look (well, since the 20s, anyway) but it looks super cute. The ruffled pink belt peeking out at the waist adds a nice pop of color - the only piece in this outfit that isn't a neutral. Lastly, brown leather boots are added (and that's the only brown in the whole ensemble). Even though black and brown used to be considered faux pas, it's one of my favorite combinations, and shown here in a very drastic way, I still think it works. What's your opinion?

Be sure to click on each image to shop the all the pieces in that look. I just love Anthropologie (although their price tags are a headache :P) and this model is so pretty - she reminds me of a young Winona Ryder.

Do you have any Christmas or New Year parties left to attend? What are you planning on wearing? :)

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Today is the DAY...

Sorry for the poor quality - I did this with my cheapo digital cam in the middle of a snowstorm ;) - but I wanted to take a moment to wish you all Merry Christmas "in person." Praying that it's a blessed one...

xoxo,
Amanda

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Fab Children's Fashion... (and helping others)

Christmas is just around the corner, so I hope your house is full of lots of Christmas cheer, yummy smells and wrapping paper. ;)

I wanted to take a moment to post about a fabulous children's company that was just brought to my attention. Not only does the TEA COLLECTION provide dozens of adorable, affordable, organic and kid friendly designs, but they have a line of cute pieces that support a wonderful charity for children.

Here's the details on why, after browsing online,  I fell in love with the TEA COLLECTION in a matter of minutes... ;)

 

• Adorable, age-appropriate designs. We know that today it is often very hard to find cute and modest pieces for our little fashionistas. The TEA COLLECTION is exactly what we've been looking for. I love how hip and up-to-date the designs are, and yet so kid-friendly. As well as carrying girl's clothing, there's plenty of super pieces for boys and infants.

• Well-priced items. Granted, nice clothing like this isn't going to be cheap, but I was impressed with the price range, as well as the fact that lots of these great items are now on SALE!

 

• 100% Cotton designs. For anyone who wants their kiddos wearing high quality, breathable fabrics, this looks like the place to go! I am not super strict about fabric content, but I always think it's fabulous when you find pieces that are organic as well as cute and comfy. Make sure you check out their Organic Layers line for leggings, camisoles and long-sleeved tees - perfect additions to your child's wardrobe.

 

• The Little Citizens line gives 50% of each purchase towards The Global Fund For Children, a foundation which assists in children's literacy and well-being in countries all around the world. Especially during the Christmas season, you just can't beat purchasing gifts that will help others. The pieces from the Little Citizens line are adorable, and it's just one way that you can be involved in giving very special gifts to kids. Click here to read more about the foundation...

I encourage you to take a peek at this delightful company and explore their offerings. They've taken Children's Clothing to a whole new level. :)

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A Holiday Giveaway and a Christmas Tune...

{Holiday Giveaway}

I know I'm usually giving away something as frivolous as jewelry (lol) but today I've got a giveaway that is practical as well as fun - Customized Postcards! ;)

I have been enjoying UPrinting's fabulous Blog Sponsorship Program for some time now and decided it was time to finally host one of their sponsored giveaways. So be sure to enter for a FREE set of 100 Custom Postcards! I will be receiving my own set from UPrinting for hosting the giveaway - sounds good to me! ;)

Giveaway Prize: 100 Postcards for one (1) lucky winner
Size: 4x6; Paper: 14pt Cardstock Gloss; Printing: Full color both sides

To Enter... all you have to do is leave a comment with your name and a way to contact you! Also, feel free to share how you would use the postcards. They can be used as invitations, notecards, business announcements and more - the options are endless! (Check out this link to see endless design options!)

I will be drawing a random winner on January 3, 2010 and will need to be in contact with the winner by January 5th. The prizes will be awarded by coupon code on the 8th. Winner will have to pay for postcard set shipping.

Free custom postcards sound like a great way to start off the New year - be sure to leave a comment and enter! :)

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{A Christmas Tune}

So, probably most of you have been hearing something about the one man band Owl City, which has pretty much turned into a nationwide smash hit with the single "Fireflies." I love the sound of his music and the feelings and moments he is able to capture in his lyrics. So when I found out he has a Christmas song...

Isn't that lovely? It gives me the most incredible "warm fuzzies." :)

P.S. You can also enjoy the Relient K Christmas awesomeness I posted last year by clicking HERE. ;)

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Fred and Ginger Style

If you are at all familiar with classic movies, music or the history of dance in the 20th century, you've no doubt heard their names, listened to their music or seen them dance across the silver screen. They were probably the most successful song and dance team in history. Fred Astaire was a master dancer, choreographer and musician... but it was dancing with Ginger Rogers that made him something truly special.

As he said himself, "Ginger had never danced with a partner before. She faked it an awful lot. She couldn't tap and she couldn't do this and that ... but Ginger had style and talent and improved as she went along. She got so that after a while everyone else who danced with me looked wrong."

If all of this is new to you... don't worry. Although I have always been a fan of classic films, and dancing has been one of my greatest loves since I can remember - until a little more than a year ago, I had never seen a Fred and Ginger film. Corny songs, dialogue and Fred Astaire's bad acting aside, I was really missing out on something. Their dancing alone is worth watching a cheesy film for (although I don't mind that - if it has song and dance, I'm sold. ;) All of the flaws melt away when the two of them step onto the dance floor....

Of course, Ginger is my favorite. She's adorable, a talented comedienne and singer... and she wears the loveliest gowns in every film. After the dancing, my favorite part of a Fred and Ginger film is watching for the exotic and gorgeous evening dresses she wears. This one - from "Top Hat" - doesn't disappoint. From the "peter pan" collar and row of buttons down the front to the oodles of ruffled net all over the sleeves and hemline, this dress is sweet and spunky.

One of the nicest things about her gowns is how they move onscreen, so I've included a video of the "Waltz in Swing Time" so you can see it in it's full loveliness.

You've got to admire the brilliance of their steps; also considering that the whole dance is shot in one take. Fred Astaire was a perfectionist and made sure the two of them got it right. I love Ginger's use of her upper body, and the way she swirls her dress around. Just lovely. *sigh*

I hope this Christmas season finds you dancing the days and evening through. Jesus is the best dance partner in the whole world... :)

Images: SimplyClassics.net

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FYI

I'd like to take a moment to apologize to my readers. There will be no "What to Wear for the Holidays - Part 2." Yes, I am as disappointed as you are. I spent quite a few hours putting it together and was pleased with the finished article. Unfortunately... Blogger decided to have a major bug and the whole thing - photos, text and links - was lost. That's the first time that my trusty (until now) host has let me down. Needless to say, this incident really depressed me. For a while, I was downright angry.

Fortunately, God is showing me that there's lots of worse things happening around this earth than a small blogger in Massachusetts losing a post about something as superficial as fashion. ;) So, I'll be thankful for all the wonderful things that I have not lost, and move on. I'm not going to re-write it... but I wish you luck in planning your holiday outfits. Be sure to browse through the AmandaBeth archives if you're at loss for ideas... and be creative. You've probably got everything you need just waiting inside your closet. :)

Christmas hugs,

Amanda

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What to Wear for the Holidays

Every year comes the question. What shall I wear to all the Christmas parties?

For some, this is an easy question to answer; in fact, one that is enjoyable. For others, it can be an absolute nightmare. Although you will probably be seeing family or friends that you visit with often, there are, of course, others that you have not seen in quite some time. Of course, you want to make a good impression.

Here's some ways to approach choosing the right outfit for your holiday party. I hope they give you some ideas and inspiration. Remember, you probably have the perfect piece already hanging in your closet. Rather than going out shopping for something new... use that money to give a gift. Frugal fashionistas totally rock this world. :)

1 - Decide on a Dress

Wearing a dress can cut out some of the stress that goes into putting together two separates. The dress is usually the key piece of the ensemble - everything else takes backstage. It is important to choose a dress that fits well and captures your personality.

A bold or striking color is perfect for winter parties and will really "make" your outfit. Accessories are not really needed when the color or design takes center stage. On the other hand, if you go for a more neutral color, you may want to use bold jewelry, a colorful scarf, or amazing shoes to enhance the ensemble.

  

  

Because it's a Christmas party (especially if it's formal) you can wear more lightweight or less "covered" pieces (ie. sleeveless designs). A pretty, ruffled little party dress is a fabulous choice. Of course, many of the dresses that are sold these days are very much on the short side, so if your dress is a little bit too "little" I recommend wear dark dress pants/jeans, leggings or tights underneath. Too much bare leg *does* look a bit strange in the middle of winter.

Of course, there are also plenty of long-sleeved options as well... just make sure that whatever you choose really works for you. There's nothing worse than a dress that doesn't suit it's wearer (and there are a gazillion bad bridesmaid photos as proof ;). So... decide on a dress only if it's really you.

2 - Pull out the Pants

You can look every bit as dressy and stylish in a pair of beautiful, well-fitting pants as in a dress or skirt. And they are guaranteed to keep you super comfortable. Although pants usually are not the item that takes center stage in an outfit, they can serve as a great base to build your look around.

Of course, a great staple is some dark blue jeans... or black dress pants. These go with anything and are very classy (I recommend a boot cut style for a super flattering look).

  

But don't let yourself be limited! Pants in a fabulous color, cut or design can be absolutely amazing. Something metallic (silver-y or gold/bronze) is perfect for the holidays and provides some nice "sparkle" - just pair it with a simple, neutral top and a matching necklace.

I also recently stumbled across a look in a magazine that featured flared blue silk pants - it was almost like a 1940s or "pajama" look - with a sparkly top. It was absolutely adorable and  - IMHO - it should be a yearly winter trend. Who's with me? ;)

3 - Try a Top

Centering your holiday look around an amazing top is pretty much a foolproof way to go. Once you have that perfect piece, it goes with almost anything (pants or a skirt). Choosing a top in a great color (for you!) is also a nice pick me up. Never forget what a powerful tool color is, and if you are going to wear it near your face... be sure to pick one that is super flattering on you - it can make or break your look.

Go for fun details and unexpected touches! This year, it is all about ruching, ruffles, bows, draping, and pleats. Selecting a piece with some really interesting details allows you to cut back on accessories. When you've got ruching or fabric roses around a striking neckline, it's really best not to add a necklace to the equation.

 

 

Also, if you tend to get a bit chilly during these winter months, you may want to opt for a sweater as a top. These can be worn by themselves, or layered over camisoles, turtlenecks or other tops for an equally lovely look.

Lastly, never underestimate the power of a beautifully fitting knit-top or simple button-up. If the shape, color, and your outfit as a whole work - there's nothing else you really need.

4 - Select a Skirt

Once again, this item can be the centerpiece of your entire look. There are endless options out there, from long and full to short and fitted. Selecting the right one for you is an important choice.

Skirts can be pretty interesting these days, featuring all sorts of fabulous colors, fabrics, prints and details. If you pick something unique enough that it can stand on it's own... let it do just that. The rest of your look should stay simple - a backdrop to the amazing design you are wearing.

  

A simple, neutral skirt can be just as stunning when the shape and fit are perfect for your look. I am a big fan of pencil skirts (although I have yet to find some that fit me right :P) - no skirt says "classic style piece" like them. (A pencil skirt if the LBD - Little Black Dress - of the skirt world. ;)

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Hmm... are you confused already? Or has this post given you some good ideas? Feel free to share your favorite pieces and looks for the holidays! :)

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Cold Weather Accessories: Part 2 - Scarves of the Season

{By Amy Elizabeth}

A scarf is a girl's best friend in any season, but especially now with colder weather approaching. The scarf trend has been strong the past few years in all seasons, and designers are still featuring them on the runways. Not only do scarves keep you warm, they are an inexpensive way to change up your wardrobe.

Trend #1: Long Layers

{Missoni, Fall 2009}

Long scarves in earth tones are layered and wrapped, giving a cozy, relaxed look.


Here you can see the different textures and layers, and all the long fringe!! Try pairing with jeans and a long top for a more casual look, or dress it up with leggings, heels, and a short print dress.

Trend #2: Bright and Bold

Eye-catching colors are toned down by wrapping the scarf to consolidate the color. Make an extra bold statement by pairing with an entire neon ensemble! If you’re not quite that daring, try wearing with your favorite basics, like black, gray, or navy.


Bold prints are also popular! A nice print scarf will brighten up a more formal outfit nicely, without being too chunky or sloppy. Try finding great graphic scarves at your local thrift store or boutique. Square and rectangular are both great shapes to look for.

Trend #3: Collar/Snood Scarves

{DKNY, Fall 2009}

These classy looking scarves are no fuss! Simply pull over your head, and you’re good to go. Try a chunky knit to go with a casual knee-length skirt, leggings and boots. Or dress it up with a tailored outfit in jewel tones.


I also love the two-tone shorter scarves wrapped together! Again, easy to dress up or down, depending on your needs. To avoid looking too matchy-matchy, keep the cardigan and ditch the plaid skirt for a nice gray or black.

These are just a few of the trends that caught my eye. Really, scarves are so popular right now you could wear whatever you wanted and fit the bill. Here are some more ideas of how you can wear scarves:

Square: Tuck it up - Leave it loose - Neatly tied

Long: Loop it - Drape it - Wear it long

For more inspiration on scarf-wearing, check out this great store!

Coming Soon...

Cold Weather Accessories: Part 3 - Hats on Every Head
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Amy Elizabeth is currently studying fashion design in Illinois, with a special interest in Bridal and historical costuming.  Her style changes depending on her mood, but vintage-bohemian-romance kind of gives you an idea of her favourite look!  Accessories are her specialty!

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