Fall 2009 Shoes - What's In. What's Out. (And what deserves to be wiped off the face of the earth...)

Catchy post title, huh? ;)

I usually don't talk a ton about shoes on this blog, but this doesn't mean that I don't have interest in them. If you know me well (or even not so well), you will have discovered that I could easily turn into a shoe shopping monster. That's part of the reason I've stayed away from shoes on this blog. I didn't want to feed the fire.

Actually, I'm really thankful that shoe styles for the past summer have been pretty ugly. For the first time in ages, I haven't found anything I like. Which is good, seeing that my wallet has been a bit thin since leaving my job at the end of May (anyone want to hire me? ;).

That said, I feel like catching up with a Fall 2009 shoe post. As you will see, there's a large variety of different looks "in" right now, which is a good thing. Unfortunately, a whole bunch of those looks are ugly, which is not so good.

Prada Does It Again!!!

Do you remember those Prada "beauties" I showcased last year? The ones that looked like they'd take off in flight? Well, the same designer has brought out their distant cousins, and it really isn't pretty. I don't know about you, but this is one trend that I find very non-desirable. They remind me of some sort of puffed up and ridiculous bird. Peacocks, anyone?


Fortunately, the basic shoe shapes are pretty and actually very retro/vintage, which I adore. These other Prada designs are downright cute and would suit any of your favorite classic actresses perfectly. I just love the ones on the right - wish I could nab them for my 21st birthday soiree. Here's to dreaming! :)

This brings me to the topic of boots, which are back in abundance for the upcoming season. Just-below-the-knee boots are one of my favorite pieces for fall and winter. They are cute and stylish, and they keep you so warm! Fortunately, there are lots of low-heeled style options available to suit everyone. I tend to stay away from the sky-high heeled boots - they are just too much for me.

While we're speaking of boots, here's a couple more "Prada Uglies" for your amusement. I've actually seen some even worse ones, believe it or not.

Really, who in their right mind would wear those? I prefer to stick with something classic. (These riding boot styles are very popular this season.)

Oh yes, and stay away from ankle boots. They are, IMHO, not so cute. Not to mention that super trendy shoes like those just won't stick around.

Some fun (and pretty) trends for fall continue in the same vein as those we saw this summer. Ruffles, bows, embroidery and other feminine touches continue to adorn everything. This trend can definitely go overboard, but when done in a simple, minimalist way, I think it's very fetching.

Lastly, don't forget that COLOR is still a really bid deal, even though we're moving into the subdued shades and neutrals of fall. Shoes might be the perfect way to add color to your outfit, without looking like "too much" in a bright sweater or bold skirt. You can get away with it when it's on your feet.

Even without the yummy colors, don't you just love these Mary Janes? Cool and classic through and through.

SO, what are YOUR favorite styles, looks and trends for fall footwear? Do you know of any "must haves"? What's on your list for the upcoming season?


Image Credits: Click the images for the source page.

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Maid Marian's Wardrobe - A Medieval Fashion Event!!!

Yay! The beautiful and courageous maiden who has been an inspiration to women all over the world for hundreds of years finally gets her own online event! It can't get much better than that! :)

After all the fun we had in June during the AmandaBeth Summer Fashion Week, I was pondering when I should plan my next online event and what I could do to make it fun and different from the first time. Well, Maid Marian has been getting a lot of attention here at the blog over the past year. I have been running a popular series of costume studies called Maid Marian's Wardrobe. These studies have gone through each and every piece worn by Maid Marian (Lucy Griffiths) in the BBC television drama "Robin Hood". And it's been FUN.

Now that the TV series has drawn to an end, I wanted to find some way to continue all the great fashion-y inspirations we enjoyed, while celebrating all things Marian and Robin over the years. Thus the event. :)

Maid Marian's Wardrobe - A Medieval Fashion Event will run as a "long weekend", from Friday October 23 through Monday October 26. Here at AmandaBeth I will be posting a last costume study from the BBC TV show, featuring Maid Marian's beautiful finale ensemble, and will be including a great list of costume resources for the series, so that you can continue to study and enjoy the lovely fashions. I will also publish a feature on the costumes worn by Olivia de Havilland in the 1938 film The Adventures of Robin Hood (a longtime favorite film of mine starring, Errol Flynn - who else? ;) and it promises to be lots of fun!

So, if you are still wondering how you participate in this event, you've got quite a few choices. You are encouraged to prepare however many posts you wish to publish on your blog over the "weekend" of the event. (The idea here is that tons of blogs around the world will be saturated with fashion-y "Maid Marian" posts. That has got to grab people's attention! :) The posts can be on any Maid Marian (or Robin Hood) related topic that you want, whether it's a review of your favorite film adaptation, a post on your favorite movie costume, or anything else you come up with.

I also want to encourage you to do a few posts of your OWN Maid Marian-inspired fashion. Whether you dress up in your best medieval garb and do a photo shoot or showcase those favorite modern pieces that you like to pull together for a contemporary "Marian" look, be sure to post your pictures!

There will also be at least one giveaway over the weekend and who knows what else we will cook up! Please use the comments section to post your ideas or suggestions - I will definitely consider them!

Similar to the structure of Summer Fashion Week, I will have a box where you can post all of your blog links and also a Flickr album available to upload your photos. As far as choosing a "best of" the weekend, I will have a few different categories you can enter (these could change if I get more ideas).

Maid Marian or Robin Hood Related Blog Post - Pick your topic and run with it! You can get creative and write on whatever subject you choose, just keep it clean and interesting! ;)

Medieval Maid Marian - Dress up in your favorite medieval dress, pretend to be Maid Marian for the day and do a photo shoot. I am a huge fan of historical inspired photo shoots and I'd love to see some "magazine spread" quality pics. Go all out! :)

Modern Marian Fashion - One of the coolest things about the costumes in the BBC Robin Hood show were the modern fashion pieces. Here's where you pull pieces from your OWN wardrobe to create a totally contemporary Marian-inspired outfit (or two! or three! :). It's amazing what you can come up with!

"Crafty" Maid Marian - Marian-inspired homemade craft/sewing items. This includes costumes, jewelry, or accessories. They must have been made with either "Maid Marian" directly in mind, or created recently in anticipation of this event. So, a medieval dress you made for the opening of The Lord of the Rings does not count - although you are welcome to wear it in your photographs for the Medieval Maid Marian category.

I (and a small panel of "judges") will be selecting the best posts and photos in each category and those will go up for voting at the conclusion of the event (similar to what we did during Fashion Week). I am looking forward to seeing what you come up with (and I've got a few ideas of my own! :).

I think I've covered most of the important points of this event, so I'll leave you all with a bunch more banners (boy did I get carried away - hope you find one you like! ;) that you can grab for your blogs or web sites. Click on the picture to see the full size image (they open quite large). Then right click the image and save it to your computer and upload it to your site. All blogs/sites that are participating will either need to have a banner somewhere on their front page, or one included in their "Marian" posts. Make sure all banners and images link back to this post at - http://amandabethonline.blogspot.com/2009/08/maid-marians-wardrobe-medieval-fashion.html







I also created a few banners with Olivia de Havilland as Marian, if those suit your classic movie actress fancy. :)



So... what do you think and what are your ideas? I'm looking forward to them. :)

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A Fantastic Hairpiece is just the Icing on the Cake...

I think that a lovely hairpiece - whether it's a simple ribbon, flower, scarf... OR an elaborate headband, hat or tiara - adds a lovely finishing touch to an outfit. Subtle or eye catching, a piece that blends well with your ensemble brings a level of class and elegance to your dress. Nine times out of ten, it's a winner. Wouldn't you agree? :)

Let me introduce you to New York Nat, created by a talented young woman who produces some of the prettiest "hair jewels" that I have ever seen. I absolutely love the beautiful, vintage designs - truly the ultimate in feminine, romantic and glamorous hair accents!

I was lucky enough to be able to interview the designer, Natalie Ann Griffith, and she shared some great thoughts as well as the inspirations behind her line. I found it quite fascinating - read on to get the whole scoop...

AmandaBeth - Can you share a little bit about yourself and your business with us?
Natalie - I graduated from the University of Michigan in 2007 with a major in Dance. I have always been interested in fashion and designed costumes in college. After a couple years living in New York City, I decided to pursue my design dreams and created the New York Nat hair accessory collection. New York Nat is a whimsical line inspired by vintage Hollywood glamour featuring headbands, barrettes and hair combs. I have also recently expanded my line to include Bridal pieces. My hair accessories are sold on my site www.newyorknat.com, at Henri Bendel, and coming soon to Plaza Too www.plazatoo.com.

AB - How did you first become involved in fashion and style?
Natalie - I've been involved in fashion since I was a little girl. I was a competitive figure skater and would sit and watch my mom sew and bead my intricate costumes. I loved playing dress-up and some things haven't changed!


AB - What were some of your early fashion influences? What inspires you now?
Natalie - As and girl growing up in the 90's I was in love with the Jem and the Holograms cartoon. Jem was a rock-star and fashionista who wore fabulous neons. I wore a lot of hot pink back then! Now I am inspired by classic beauty, ballet, Edgar Degas paintings, and I love anything Chanel.

AB - When did you decided to create a line of "Hair Jewels"? How did it all come about?
Natalie - I started making hair jewels this past winter after being inspired from a day of holiday shopping. I created my collection and showed my pieces at Henri Bendel's "Open See" at the end of March. The buyer loved my designs and offered me a trunk show at the store and placed an order right away. It was a whirlwind experience.

AB - Can you share a little bit about your process of generating ideas and bringing your designs to life?
Natalie - My ideas are drawn from all aspects of my life. I am inspired by interesting materials and fabrics and the pieces start to come together with some imagination. When I sit down to make a new design, I play around with ideas and let my mood lead the way.


AB - As a designer, what do you consider some of your biggest accomplishments or proudest moments?
Natalie - My proudest moment was leaving the "Open See" at Henri Bendel knowing I had created a successful collection. There were approximately 500 hopefuls wrapped around the Fifth Avenue store and I was honored to be chosen.

AB - What are you ultimate fashion ambitions? Do you have any big future plans for New York Nat?
Natalie - Ultimately, I would love to have a complete line of accessories including handbags, shoes, belts, and jewelry. In the near future I am starting to work on a few belts that I am very excited about!

AB - What advice do you have for young women who are interested in becoming designers?
Natalie - Don't give up and always stay true to your vision and inspirations. Letting your personality shine through your work is very important.

AB - What are the most important lessons you have learned while being involved in fashion and design?
Natalie - I've learned not to be timid and to trust my instincts.

Yum... aren't they just lovely? I, for one, am inspired. :)

Natalie's designs are available at Henri Bendel (on 712 Fifth Avenue in New York City) and online at New York Nat.

Images Credits: All photos from newyorknat.com

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Ann Taylor Fall Preview

Well, it's that time of year isn't it? It seems like we hardly got into summer (this past week or so have been the only "summer weather" thus far for us in MA) and already we've got to be looking ahead to a new season. This is especially true for those who are in school. Not only do they have to look forward to a seasonal mood change, but they must prepare for new classes and schedules. Regardless of what the fall looks like for you, I think it's important to face it prepared, both in mind and wardrobe. (But remember; this doesn't mean you have to go and buy loads of new stuff - see my last post!)

I have always loved the designs put out each year by Ann Taylor, especially their fall collections. They manage to capture the traits I love in women - confidence, femininity, strength and beauty - and echo them in their clothing. I believe that each and every woman is lovely in her own way and Ann Taylor offers clothing that reflects that simple loveliness.

Here's some shots from their "Fall Sneak Peek" (click to see the whole preview), which I think are very classy. Their introduction reflects this...

"Past Is Present. For our new Fall collection, we took a bit of inspiration from our iconic heritage - because good ideas never go out of style."

How true! There is never any need to be a slave to fashion, or stuck on the latest trends. True classic pieces know no time or place - they are suitable for all occasions and always keep the wearer looking effortless and never overdone.

As far as what's "in" for this fall (other than super-classy designs), trends continue to be similar to what we saw this summer, just in more subdued colors, heavier structured fabrics, and more "covered" styles. Here's some more New Arrivals that I thought were worth sharing.

Balloon Sleeve Coat - Well, it looks like grey will continue to be "the new brown" this fall, which is not so good for us "brownies", but great for those of you who have a cool skin tone. I love the lines of this jacket; the A-line shape is similar to the "trapeze" styles that were popular in the 1960s. Total classic right there.

Top with Charmeuse Neckline - Deep, rich hues are the perfect colors for the fall season, especially subdued jewel tones like this one. Soft, drape-y fabrics are ultra feminine, and ruffles, bows and other details continue their reign. I find it especially nice when there are pretty touches near the face, as seen in this mock turtleneck look.

Tulip Sleeve Dress - I have always loved the slim, neat and polished dresses in this style. I think they are the epitome of class and just scream "Grace Kelly!" Unfortunately, I have yet to find one that fits me right (and I would like it a tad longer) - this will have to go on my "sewing wish list". ;)

Perfect Ponte Pencil Skirt - This is another piece that has endured for decades. I think the high-waisted cut is especially vintage and lovely, encouraging some beautiful waist definition and providing endless belt options.

Modern Wool/Cotton Perfect Trousers - A good pair of pants are hard to come by. When you find them, hold 'em tight and don't let go! I find a nice straight-leg cut and an extra wide waistband especially flattering. (Oh, and can I just say that the stack of cubic zirconia bracelets is SO CHIC! :)

Perfect Leather Pump - This is the shoe of the past century (well, of any century, really!). No matter what era of fashion you peruse, you can find the Pump in some shape or form. It's timeless.

Now, isn't classic fall fashion something to get truly excited about? :) If you've been doing your homework, you should already have a good store of classic pieces to mix and match with any new items you pick up this fall. Oh yes, and I know that Ann Taylor is pretty expensive. A great alternative is Ann Taylor LOFT, where stuff is definitely more reasonable - and don't forget those SALE racks! :)


Image Credits: All Photos - AnnTaylor.com

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How to be a Frugal Fashionista

What am I to do when I want a new look, some new pieces (or a whole new wardrobe), but it doesn't fit into my budget? How can I make the most of what I already have in my wardrobe and stay well dressed, without spending more than I should?

Come on, girls, let's admit it. In the modern "self centered" society of instant gratification in which we live, it can be tough not to go with the flow. The culture (despite the current economic recession) is obsessive about spending, and it's hard to even dip your toe in the pool of fashion without getting pulled under. Even if we believe that we should be frugal, we can be easily swept of our feet when the fashion world romances us with images, colors, and textures. Sometimes we want to (and maybe need to) run and bury our wallet in the backyard. Temptation can be present every time we whip into a department store to pick up something we need, whether it's the shoe aisle, the SALE racks, or the latest seasonal pieces on display.

Writing this blog forces me to keep "out" in the fashion world and pay attention to what's going on; good trends and bad, latest cuts and colors, and et cetera. It can be tough when I find a new piece that I would really like to add to my wardrobe but either can't afford or don't consider it wise to spend any more money my clothes. 

It is my belief that we are obligated to do a good job taking care of the money that God has blessed us with (no matter how much or how little). Just one part of that is making wise purchases. Looking around at the young (and old) women of the time in which we live, I see "important" fashion and beauty items used over and over as an excuse for gross overspending. Women's closets are overflowing with pieces they never wear, shoes that don't fit or are uncomfortable, and such large piles of accessories that it's impossible to keep track of what they own. And the credit card debts that are run up are even more disturbing.

These women don't paint a pretty image in my mind. Instead of appearing the stylish, capable and smart women they want to be, they come across as excessive, disorganized and slaves to their lifestyle. Ouch!

So, how can we be frugal fashionistas? How do we remain stylish without being blown about by every fashion whim? Here's some tips that I have experimented with and found useful over the years...

Take good care of the things you've purchased. As you leave your teen years and your body stops growing, you no longer have to get rid of too-small items every year. If you are careful with what you have, it will last. This allows you to have a lot more in your wardrobe, without increasing how much you buy "new" every year. I know that I have some skirts from 4 years ago that are in excellent condition; I have taken good care of them and they have lasted. 

The same goes for shoes. My collection increases nearly every year, but NOT because I pick up new shoes every season. I will perhaps purchase a couple new pairs every year (if the need arises or my budget allows some fun ones), but the majority of my stash comes from footwear that has been handed-down by a friend, $2 thrift store shoes that I found almost new, or ones that I have been careful of and are still giving my years of service.

Know what to hang onto and what to pass on. Listen, girl; if you haven't worn that top for a year, it may be time to give it to someone who will appreciate it more than you do (sister, friend, charity). It's important to do a wardrobe "purge" on a regular basis. I try and go through my clothes thoroughly at least twice a year, usually when I'm putting away the summer things and pulling out my sweaters and et cetera. 

If I find something that I didn't wear for the entirety of the most recent season, doesn't "go" with anything else in my closet, and I don't have an inkling of affection for, it's time to get rid of it. On the flip side, if I did wear the item a few times and think I can get more use from it in the future, I will hang onto it. It's OK for those pieces that you don't wear often, but love when you do, to hang quietly in the back of the closet. You will pull them out and reinvent them some time in the future.

Don't buy it unless you need it. (And make sure it goes with more than one other piece in your closet!) This might seem obvious, but much of our overspending comes from purchasing what we don't need. I try and keep this in mind while shopping and only disregard it if I find something that I know will come very handy in the future, like some great basics (a black skirt, white blouse, et cetera) or an amazing dress (impossible to find!).

One new item can completely update your look. There is no need for a whole new outfit. This past Sunday, I paired my new Fashion Bug top with a skirt and shoes that I had owned for three years. That one piece made the "new look" difference. 

And you don't have to buy new things for a NEW look. Hand-me-downs are new to you, right? And very often I will tweak a shirt I didn't care for, or make a skirt from that dress I didn't like (or didn't fit right) using simple sewing techniques - there's nothing like that custom touch! :)

Remember, when you do go shopping, there's no need to walk into high-end places and come out with 4 pieces (or less!) for the nearly $200 you spent. Sales racks and, best of all, consignment and thrift shops, are one of the best places to browse. I've found some amazing brand new items on sale at SAVERS (my favorite thrift store!) for totally outrageous deals. If you have a good knowledge of fashion labels and can tell how new something is by examining it, you can do really well.

Just to sum this up... we all make mistakes. There are many times where I have spent more than I should and regretted my purchases. The important thing is that we learn from our mistakes and do things differently next time. There have been many instances when I have put a "shopping ban" on myself and stayed away from all stores, because my budget was tight and I know my weakness for great deals. It's all about finding what works for you. :)

I hope you've enjoyed some of the tips I've shared - please feel free to use the comments section to share your own! There's nothing that makes me happier on this blog than getting your important feedback. Tell me, how do you remain a frugal fashionista?

Image Credits: Photos 1, 3 & 5 from marieclaire.com / Image 2 from myddnetwork.com / Image 4 from Microsoft Office Clipart

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Fashion Is Not Effortless

All fashionistas have their bad days. Even when the finished look is great, there is often a lengthy back-story that would make people chuckle, if they only knew it. Sometimes the perfect outfit comes together almost magically. On other days it takes a little bit of work.

Despite this deceptively simple look, last Sunday was one of those latter days. I was excited to have a new top to wear and had my shoes picked out (well, that wasn't hard considering I have only like two nice pairs this summer :P). But when it came to a skirt, I ran into some problems.

Note: When you've got a top that cuts down over your hips, it's hard to make it look right in proportion with a skirt (pants are easier with this style). Length and fullness can make or break the whole look.

• White was the color of my choice and so I pulled out my favorite summer skirt. After ironing it, I discovered it was was too short and full for the top. The proportion was wrong.
• The second skirt I tried (which I was smart enough to try on before ironing) was longer and more fitted, but it still looked off. Hmm...
• White skirt #3 had some beads that matched my top exactly. Ahh, I thought, this is the one! But when I slipped it on, IT slipped down to my ankles. The waistline elastic was shot. Go figure!
• I had one more white option left and - thank goodness! - it looked great. Of course, while ironing it, I noticed a big stain right on the front.

There goes my white skirts. Grr...

Feeling hot and tired from running up and down between my bedroom and the iron and full-length-mirror in the basement, I was pretty near the end of my "fashion & style rope" when I finally pulled out a linen skirt in a light tan shade. I hadn't worn it in a while and, actually, I wasn't even sure if I liked it anymore. But I was desperate at this point. If I could just find something that fit and wasn't destroyed in some way, I'd wear it.

Fortunately for everyone involved (myself, the skirts whose lives were in danger of destruction, and my family who was getting a headache from my feet pounding up and down the two flights of stairs), it worked. Not white, but pretty near the perfect style. I sighed with relief and fainted away on the 4 white skirts on my bed.

OK, so that last part was fabricated (sewing pun intended), but I think you get my point. I hope this little glimpse into my real life dispels any illusions that us "wannabe" fashionistas have it all together. I certainly don't, and am not sure if I'd even like to meet someone who does. Everyone should, and will, have their bad days. This fashion stuff is not easy! ;)

What I'm Wearing:

Ruffled Knit Top by FASHION BUG

Linen Skirt by Christopher & Banks

Shoes by MUDD - from Kohl's

Jewelry from Thailand

Now, does anyone else want to relieve some fashion-y stress? Feel free to rant away in the comments! LOL. :)

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