Not Ready For Swimsuit Season...NO PROBLEM!

Sure, it's a bit early to be worried about getting into swimsuits, but with the warm weather I've found myself having this conversation several times already.  On the upside, there is time to get it together and work on getting your body in "shape".  While it doesn't hurt to work out, nobody is perfect though, and like me, maybe you're realizing that your body just isn't as cooperative at 35+ as it was at 29.  That being the case, I've found the perfect solution.

I've always been a two piece girl.  Maybe it's because that's what my mom always put me in when I was little, but mostly it's two reasons of my own.  My superficial reason is I've never had a white tummy and I just can't bring myself to start having one now.  My fit reason is my torso is REALLY long so one piece swimsuits don't fit...if you know what I mean ;o).  For the last couple years I have toyed with the idea of getting a tankini (tank top fitting top with a bikini bottom) since I find myself playing with more and more kids on the beach and boating.  I have yet to go that route but I came across one in my Sundance Catalog recently that really caught my eye.  Their Ipanema Mosaic Tankini has all the details I consider slimming.  The bikini bottoms are cut right across the hip, solid brown with patterned top band that distracts from unwanted attention to the abdomen, and wide 5" or so long patterned ties that hang against the thighs creating the illusion of long toned legs.  The tankini top is your basic slight v-neck tank silhouette bringing the right amount of attention to the bust line but, it's the print that is the real WOW factor.  It's a beautiful mosaic that creates curves and distraction without looking busy and loud.  This tankini is a real head turner.  It's striking and flattering in every way possible and more.  I may just breakdown and get it because I like it so much...and since the top is a tank I can pull it up under my bust for tummy tanning :o).

Just my own personal FYI, since I'm giving my two cents about what makes a swimsuit flattering, unless you are ultra tan and/or have the perfect body, black (whether it's a one or two piece) is NOT the way to go.  On pale skin it's the worst but on any body it practically disappears and makes all your skin stand out.  Prints are best.  Side ties that hang against the thigh are a must in my book.  And finally, believe it or not, browns, whites, oranges, and greens are the most flattering colors on everyone.  Tan or pale, these colors complement any skin tone.

Now, get ready to hit the beach...and don't forget your SUNSCREEN!

Great Deals, Great Bags

I recently signed up to received Daily Candy Deals.  It's like Groupon but online.  Basically, you receive a daily email with a deal such as $50 for $100 credit at some fashion site.

Today's email really caught my attention:  $32 for $80 worth of credit on anything.  amykathryn is a line of designer eco and animal-friendly handbags, messenger bags and clutches.  When you think vegan clothing and accessories you may not think prints, textures, and colors.  Think again.  These bags have it all.  Style, quality, and then some.  My particular favorite is the Gladiola Apricot Carry-All Shoulder Bag for $99.  Sign up with Daily Candy Deals right now, buy the amykathryn deal and get this bag for only $51!

Oh, and for all you moms and moms to be, these also make great diaper bags.  In fact, amykathryn also carries vegan changing pads for only $19.  So hip and functional!

Maxi Dresses...Better Late Than Never!

So I've just become slightly obsessed with maxi dresses.  At first I thought the waistbandless comfort would increase the speed of my increasing waistline (I'm 35, it was going to happen someday, I know).  Then I thought about it again and realized I don't care.  So I ordered one.  Didn't love it.  It wasn't the right neckline or something for my linebacker shoulders (currently en route to Brooklyn, NY to be enjoyed by my best friend, Christina).  I did, however, start pining for one from Boden http://www.bodenusa.com/# .  I was initially drawn to Boden years ago when I had a pregnant friend.  They had such stylish, comfortable looking maternity clothes and I was really impressed with the quality of the skirt I gifted to her (after pregnancy she gave it back to me and I had the waistband altered for me).  I've cruised their site now and then ever since and always check the clearance since they're a bit pricey.  That's where I found their Voile Maxi http://www.bodenusa.com/en-US/Clearance/Womens-Dresses/Below-Knee-Dresses/WH245-BRN/Womens-Mocha-Daisy-Voile-Maxi.html?NavGroupID=4 , on sale, free shipping and returns, and it comes in long!  I received it yesterday and it fits AMAZING!  I've been wanting a casual "blazer" to wear with jeans so I think Boden is going to be my first "stop" for finding the perfect one.

Stay tuned...

Easing Into Fall Fashion

So, tomorrow is the first day of Fall and although magazines and catalogs are preaching "layers, layers, layers" I find it's just a little too warm to start bundling up.  Besides, even though the crisp air is nice and inviting, are you really ready to walk away from summer yet?  This is the time of year I like to take a page out of the "hipster's" style guide.  No, it's not skinny jeans on guys or shorts with slouchy socks and combat boots.  I like scarves.

Scarves are an accessory that make both a statement and sense.  Don't put away your tanks and short sleeves yet, wear a scarf with them.  It's a great fall look and the right scarf gives you that happy medium of light and chunky, warm and cool.  Not only that, many scarves can double as a light wrap for when the sun goes down and you're out enjoying a nice bonfire with friends.

So don't go reaching for your wool sweaters and thermal underwear just yet.  Enjoy the invigorating cool temps for a while.  There will be plenty of time to bundle up in a month or two...save it for winter.