Giveaway Winners!!!

And four lucky ladies are...



...Alissandra, Lily, Teagan and Miss Eponine! Congratulations and thanks to everyone who entered! :)

God bless! xoxo

-AMANDA

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Out Of Africa

If you've flipped through any of the "evil" fashion magazines that fill the racks next to most store cash-registers *wink*, you may have seen some of the ads for Ralph Lauren's Spring 2009 Collection. These have a very neat "safari" look to them - they literally make you start to feel like you're out in the hot summer sun - and I figured the collection would probably provide some pretty and interesting pieces. I was right, especially about the latter adjective. But let's start with the good and work our way down to the ugly...

First of all, we've got some incredibly classy and sweet dresses, just perfect for a summer garden party, formal event or wedding. As a disclaimer, I'll state right away that I am totally not into the black turban. This is one piece that is rarely pulled off well, and much better left alone. But the dress is so classic and (hooray!) extremely modest. It's got some real vintage glamour and would look lovely with a few long, multi-strand necklaces. And peep-toe shoes are probably my favorite thing ever. ;)

This white gown is exactly the style I want and need right now. (I have to make a new dress for the Benefit Concert.) What a timeless look (reminds me of my beloved 1930s)! I just love cream chiffon, and the bodice draping and ruffled split up the front are perfect. The straw cloche is pretty much my choice of the ultimate summer hat (remember my last post?) and the skinny belt and strappy sandals provide just the right finishing touches.



















Sometimes you are exposed to harsh environments in the summer, and you have to cover up. There's no better way to do this than in pure white; it reflects the sun and keeps you cool. This over-sized, double-breasted coat does it's job well, adding sophistication to the ensemble. Brown accents on the shoes and tote keep the look from being "too much of a good thing". (BTW, can I just say that I am totally digging white pants right now? So sad that my only pair no longer fits!)

Cropped trench coats are so chic. Especially in white. (Well, for that matter, any jacket in white is especially chic. Agent 99, anyone? ;) And this safari hat, although not my particular style, definitely looks like it would do the job. No sunstroke allowed here!

And now...drumroll...we've got another edition of Trends I Hate. I pretty much dare any of you to defy me on this one...Harem Pants.



These are not your cute-sy, poofy, gathered-at-the-ankle pants (alá Jasmine's wardrobe in Aladdin). These are saggy, baggy, ugliness. Period. How any woman could expect to look attractive with the inside-leg seam hanging to her knees? Ouch. Please don't do it. :P

Oh yeah, and if you haven't entered the print giveaway yet, please do so now. It ends on Saturday!!! There's lots more great things coming along in that area, including a new web site. Stay tuned!


Images: ralphlauren.com

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Topping It All Off

"There's just something special about a woman in a hat..."

It may very well be that a good hat is one of the most cherished possessions in a woman's wardrobe. When you run across the one that is right for you, you'll know it. Something incredible happens when that "perfect hat" is on your head, and if you've got sense, you'll snatch it up...unless, of course, it is beyond your carefully planned budget. Going over what we can afford is not good. But, that said, "an [unbelievable hat], who can find?". It's not easy. My best advice: Look around, try them on, and don't buy one until you know it's just what you're looking for.


I think it's totally fabulous that something so functional can also be so fun! Not only does a good hat make you feel confident, ladylike and ready for anything, but it keeps your ears warm, the rain off your head, or the sun out of your eyes, depending on the season.

Hats are especially practical in the summertime, when the glare of the sun can hurt your eyes. And, of course, you don't want to fry when you're out at the beach all day. At least, I don't.

A favorite "milliner" of mine is the absolutely brilliant Louise Green, who draws inspiration from the lovely designs of the past. There's nothing so beautiful and romantic as her pieces (many which you can find online at Victorian Trading Co.) - each one is definitely something to be treasured. (Thanks to Laura for reminding me about this great company and "inspiring" this post!)

If you want dig deeper into the hat mania, you can check out the post I wrote up for last summer's "Hat Fair". Or if you're looking to enjoy a lovely book, pick up The Romance of Hats, by Victoria Magazine. It's the perfect read to take with you when learning "how to spend an early summer afternoon"... ;)

Images: Neiman Marcus, Index, Photobucket, FanPix, Couture Spoken, TopsyTurvyDesigns,Photobucket, Louise Green

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Audrey Style

It's been nearly a year since I featured the lovely Audrey Hepburn on the blog, so I felt that she needed to be showcased once again. Not only was she THE most iconic fashionista of the 20th century and one of the most successful actresses of the golden age of Hollywood - she was unbelievably humble and loving woman, who lived life gracefully and reached out with kindness to everyone she met.

This photo is not one of the typical studio glamour shots I usually post, but is relaxed and full of quiet serenity. I'd like to title it "How To Spend An Early Summer Afternoon". Here's my thoughts on the subject (drawing heavily from Audrey's example)...

• Wear something cool and comfortable. An ivory linen skirt and soft, sleeveless top are perfect. Slip on some matching ballet flats and bring along a big straw hat, in case the sun is shining too harshly.

• Bring your favorite thoughts along with you. Whether you refer to a beloved book, or leisurely write down new musings as they pop into your head, it's always a plus to have something nice to think about.

• Find a peaceful spot. Make sure it's quiet and full of beauty. Like Audrey, a favorite place of mine is the woods. They stay cool on those hot summer days and are full of the nicest sounds and smells. The mossy ground beneath an ancient old tree makes a throne fit for the grandest queen.

Mmm...I think I need to take time out of my own busy schedule and do this more often. It's amazing how a little bit of real afternoon relaxation (and I don't mean surfing the internet!) can help give you the boost of energy needed to live out the rest of the day. :)

I hope everyone has a glorious weekend! God bless you all...

Images: simplyclassics.net

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I used to be colorblind...

...But I met you and now I find
There's green in the grass. There's gold in the moon. There's blue in the skies.
That semi-circle, that was always hanging about, is not a storm cloud; it's a rainbow.
And you brought the colors out...

Pardon the cheesy classic musical moment... ;)

Completely black and white outfits were long the fave fashion fare of mine. Then, a few years back, I was introduced to the incredible power of color, and my life was forever changed. Most people don't realize how much a special shade can make you look totally fab - it's an instant pick me up.

That said, I did revert back to "the good old days" and go "black and white" for church on Sunday. It's definitely easier to pull off a color (black), that usually washes me out, when I've been to the beach and got a bit o' sun.

What I'm Wearing:

Black knit top - by Very Important Pieces from K&G

Flowered silk skirt - by grace from Savers

Black sandals - by MUDD from Kohl's

Silver and pearl necklace - from Target

Oh yes, and that is, once again, the "artsy" water tank, covered in pitch and graffiti...

You may remember this post last year, where I shared the beginnings of my adventures in "self fashion portraits", which are practically mandatory for fashion bloggers. I've learned a lot since then (and produced a lot of "blah" pictures ;) and I want to reiterate some of those tips. Remember that AmandaBeth Fashion Week is just over a month away - so if you don't have a friend or family member to shoot your pics (or just prefer to do them yourself, like me), now is the time to get practicing! 

1. If possible, shoot outside. This will greatly improve the quality of your photos and should allow you to turn the flash off. If you have to shoot indoors, find a place that has as much light as possible.
   
2. Paint yourself on a simple "canvas". You don't want a busy and distracting background, unless you are lucky enough to pose in the center of Paris or some other famous city. I like to find a surface that is in a "neutral" shade and has some texture to it (helps keep the photos from looking "flat").
   
3. Pieces of furniture can be great accents, but don't go crazy. You don't want the size and color of the furniture to "compete" with you in the photo. I was walking around the water tank the other day when I stumbled against the bench, placed where you see it now. Nobody seemed to know where it came from, but one of my cousins accused me of placing it there for my self portraits. Not a bad idea... :)
   
4. Choose a flattering angle. Most people look best when being shot from above, so extend the tripod as much as possible. I actually shot lower in these photos and, accordingly, had to make some adjustments. Poses work differently from different angles.
   
5. Find you best pose! OK, this is a funny one, but it's amazing how much of a difference can be made from how your turn your face, position your hands, and et cetera. For example, I find that (for me, anyway) straight-on shots tend to be harder to pull off. Turning your face and/or body to a 3-quarter position usually works better. Also, tilting your head down or up tends to be most flattering to all your facial features.
   
6. Take a million photos. You can delete most of them later, but trust me, only 1 in 5 will turn out how you want it. Don't just take 2 and be done with it, and always check whether you like the photos on the computer - they don't look quite the same on your camera view-finder.
   

I hope these give you some ideas to try out - I am so excited about seeing everyone's fashion pictures, starting on June 21st!

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Oh yes, and I just have to share a picture of my new little nephew (Melissa and Jordan's baby), William Locksley. I love him to bits already and only wish I could be there to cuddle him! :)

Happy Tuesday! :)


Image: niednagel.com

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"Balle! Balle!"

Over the past few years I have developed a sort of "Bollywood" fascination, partly due to some crazy friends of mine (lol), and partly because, who couldn't fall for this kind of high fashion? There's no denying that the vibrant colors, lush fabrics and elegant beading are irresistible to every girl's inner "Indian Princess" (even if you happen to be of the fair, hazel-eyed type, like me ;)...

Kaneesha.com features some of the most ornate and beautiful saris and choli skirts/dresses. I don't know about you, but I simply fell in love with these. To be sure, they're rather elaborate for most occasions, but there's no denying that one of these amazing pieces would make you feel like royalty. And who wouldn't love to be married in something like this? ;)

On the more practical end of things, be sure to browse Designer Salwar Kameez for some equally stunning pieces that could be easily adapted into your contemporary wardrobe. I think that lots of these would make adorable tunics (worn with your favorite blue jeans? :) and could even be pulled off as a wispy summer dress.

Oh yes, and for the record, I am descended from a real Indian princess. Unfortunately, she came from Canada instead of Mumbai. ;)

Ah...I just love these so much. Out-of-this-world gorgeous, and feminine through and through. In fact, this yummy style of apparel (and a funny Bollywood musical) inspired this set of "luxury pjs", which I finally just finished last week!

Anyone else want to help turn these styles into a new international trend? ;)


Images: Slumdog Millionaire photo from aceshowbiz.com (I haven't seen the film and therefore can't recommend it) / kaneesha.com /www.designersalwarkameez.com

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Say It With Flowers

Although we've talked quite a bit about flowers and nature-inspired designs already, it bears mentioning that buds and blossoms can be used in many more fashion-y ways than simply hair decoration. In fact, one of the most enduring spring fashion trends is the explosion of brightly hued floral fabrics. These high-end designer pieces showcase the best and most beautiful prints and combinations - there's some serious flower power going on here!

Who says that you can't mix two different patterns in one ensemble? This may be one of the hard and fast rules of "fashion etiquette, but I believe it is one that can be successfully (and non-offensively :) broken. Try pairing a large print with a small one (two large prints of different designs would be super distracting!) and keep them in the same color family for a bit o' harmony.

To really make that special "pop" of color up-front and center, consider choosing a cover-up that accents and enhances your brightly patterned top. Here, the embroidery on the jacket echoes the design of the blouse without copying it too closely. Oh yeah, and there is nothing so cool as an white suit with a colorful top to keep things interesting. My absolute favorite look.

On the flip side, a floral-patterned dress with a darker background is super flattering. I like this one because of the unusual pairing of white, yellow, navy-blue and grey. The horizontal stripes at the hem add unexpected interest and the sash provides waistline definition (something we all want! ;).

Never underestimate the simplicity of a full, flower-y skirt. It exudes beauty and grace and is easy to take from a casual day look to a more sophisticated soirée ensemble. An understated solid top in a great color keeps things from being too distracting and focuses the attention on your smiling face. (Oh yes, and remember those contrasting shoes - love them!)



Three cheers for sleeveless blouses! This is probably my favorite summer piece because it makes me feel pretty and feminine, yet capable and ready for action. I love the little details on each of these tops. The first one has these little "poofy" rosettes at the shoulders and the second has each of the shoulder straps clasped in a little band of fabric, giving a ruched affect.

Remember that the size of the floral pattern says a lot about your look. Smaller prints give a sweet, demure attitude, while larger prints look bold and exude confidence. So, how are you feeling today? :)



And don't forget those accessories! If the rest of your clothing is "neutral", here's a fantastic place to throw in the color and a bit of fun! The shoes may be too much for most people, but it is amazing what a bright floral tote or clutch brings too your look. Here's your chance to break into the flower-y trend without changing your wardrobe too much.

Be sure to click each image to be taken to the Neiman Marcus page, where you can zoom in for details and gasp over the insane prices. I think I'll stick to digging up my floral pieces at Kohls... ;)


Images: Neiman Marcus

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Music For Life...

In honor of Mother's Day (albeit belated), I wanted to share about an upcoming event that is near and dear to my heart...

Fundraising Concert For CareNet

My good friend Erin Morrissey is hosting this event, featuring classical viola music, harp selections from Gershwin, and a few "oldies" tunes from yours truly! Also, a CareNet representative will be present to share about their organization and mission.

A little bit about CareNet (find out more by visiting www.carenet.org ):

"As the largest network of pregnancy centers in North America, Care Net is committed to expanding access to the life-saving services and support provided by our local centers and to reaching the hurting and broken with the hope of Jesus Christ."

Date: Saturday, June 13, 2009

Time: 6:30pm - 9:00pm

Location: The Music School

667 Waterman Ave 

East Providence, RI

-Suggested Donations-

Adult: $10

Students/Seniors: $5

Family Price: $35 maximum

Children under five years old are FREE

(Tickets will be collected at the door.)

Light refreshments will follow the concert.

Dress Casual attire requested.

Please consider joining us for an evening of music and lend your support to CareNet's mission to protect life and celebrate motherhood!

Thanks! xoxo :)

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A bit about "Alice", Art and and Awards...

Is anyone in the mood for an adventure? Put on a bit of "Alice-inspired" apparel and go! Here's a few favorites...

• Tiffany Bubble Dress - I have never been crazy about this style, but here is one dress that *I* think works. From the soft, powder-blue silk fabric to the gentle pleating and delicate sash - this is perfect for any modern day "Alice".
• Blue and Brown Suede Leather Gloves - This color combination is a favorite of mine. The details on these gloves are just gorgeous, from the piping, the decorative stitching, and tiny buttons.
• Blue Patent Leather Mary Janes - Strappy little Mary Janes are one of my favorite shoe styles and these are just sweet. Mental note to myself: next shoe color to buy should be baby blue...
• "I'm Late!" White Rabbit Watch Earrings - These are just to good to be true! Check out the entire collection of Etsy seller hoolala's "Alice" inspired jewelry - amazing!
• Alice In Wonderland Pocket Mirrors - Just because you've got to have a subtle way of making sure the Queen of Hearts is not sneaking up behind you...
• Queen Alice Mod Ring - Finish it off with one of your favorite characters from the series, whether it's the White Rabbit, Alice, the Queen, or the grinning Cheshire Cat.

I think that all of us have been influenced by Alice and her grand adventures to some extent. I know that the books always held a fascination for my sister and I when we were little, despite (or maybe because of) their strange pace, which was so like a jumbled dream, without order and unable to be controlled.

Hmm...all this reminds me that I haven't re-read those books in a while. And I think some white and blue apparel is on the schedule today (yes, I am still in my PJs - that's when I do my best writing ;)...

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While, we're on the subject of Alice, don't forget to check out my print, "Down the Rabbit Hole", inspired by... you guessed it. :)



Also, I have added four new 5x7 prints to my new "Portraits" collection. Please check them out and feel free to leave your thoughts. If you haven't entered the giveaway yet, be sure to do so! (Also, as I am going to continue to add new art over the next weeks, all winners will be allowed to change their choice of print at the closing of the contest.) You can stay updated on all my latest shop news through my 1000 Markets Blog.

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Recently AmandaBeth Online received another sweet award from KaHolly, a fabulous blogger and Etsy seller who just happens to be my own "adopted" Auntie Karen. :) Thanks so much!

You can read more about the award here. "I hope it finds its way to those who are like Renee: the acorn, a small package becoming a tall and sturdy oak giving more acorns, becoming tall and sturdy oaks, giving acorn... Please accept this award and pass it along to others whom you feel are also spreaders of love."

I always have trouble finding new bloggers to pass on awards to, since I follow a very select few an most of those I have awarded already! So, please, if you feel like this award lines up with what you are all about, take it and "spread the love around"! Thanks. :)

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