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Fashion The Bestie Blog

Best Dresses For Broad Shoulders

Looking for the best dresses for broad shoulders?

When you have broad shoulders, it can be tough to find dresses that fit well and make you look your best.

In this post, we’ll share some of our favorite dresses for women with broad shoulders.

We’ll also provide tips on how to choose the right dress size and style for your body type.

Read on to learn more!

 

How to Measure Your Broad Shoulders

Women’s shoulders are often seen as a desirable asset, but they can also be difficult to deal with when it comes to clothes.

If you have broad shoulders, you may find that off-the-rack blouses and dresses don’t fit quite right.

The good news is that there are some easy ways to measure your shoulders to ensure a perfect fit.

First, stand with your back straight and your arms at your sides.

Measure from the outer edge of one shoulder to the outer edge of the other. This is your shoulder width. Next, measure from the base of your neck to the top of your shoulder. This is your shoulder height.

Finally, measure from the top of your shoulder to the bottom of your armpit. This is your armpit length.

Once you have these measurements, you can shop for clothes with confidence, knowing that you’ll be able to find something that fits just right.

 

What Dress Styles Work Best for Broad Shoulders?

For women with broad shoulders, finding the right dress style can be a bit of a challenge.

While you may want to show off your best asset, you don’t want to look like you’re swimming in fabric.

The good news is that several dress styles can flatter your figure.

One option is to go for a fitted bodice with a fuller skirt. This will accentuate your waist and create the illusion of a more hourglass-shaped figure.

Another option is to wear a strapless dress. This will help to balance out your proportions and make your shoulders look less wide. Whatever style you choose, make sure that the dress fits well on the shoulders and bust. With the right fit, you’ll be sure to turn heads – in all the right ways.

Empire Waist Dresses

empire waist dresses

 

Empire waist dresses have been around for centuries, and they continue to be a popular choice for women of all ages.

Whether you’re looking for a casual dress to wear around the house or a more formal gown for a special occasion, an empire waist dress is a flattering option that is sure to get you noticed.

The defining feature of an empire waist dress is the raised waistline, which typically falls just below the bust. This design helps to accentuate the shoulders and neck while also creating the illusion of a longer, leaner silhouette.

Empire waist dresses come in a variety of styles, from flowy maxi dresses to sleek and fitted cocktail dresses. No matter what your personal style may be, there’s an empire waist dress that’s perfect for you.

A-Line Dresses

aline dress for broad shoulders

 

A-line dresses are the timeless silhouette that flatters women of all shapes and sizes.

The clean lines of the dress create a slimming effect, while the flared skirt adds a touch of femininity. A-line dresses can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re attending a wedding or meeting friends for coffee, an A-line dress is always a good choice.

And because they’re so versatile, A-line dresses are a wardrobe staple that every woman should have in her closet.

So next time you’re looking for the perfect dress, don’t forget the A-line!

Wrap Dresses

best wrap dresses for broad shoulders

 

A wrap dress is a type of women’s dress that wraps around the body and ties at the waist.

The wrap dress was popularized by designer Diane von Furstenberg in the 1970s, and it has remained a popular style ever since. Wrap dresses are flattering on a variety of body types, and they can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

One of the great things about wrap dresses is that they are easy to wear; simply tie the sash around your waist and you’re good to go.

Whether you’re looking for a casual day dress or a glamorous evening gown, a wrap dress is a versatile option that is sure to impress.

Off-the-Shoulder Dresses

off the shoulder dress

 

Women have been wearing off-the-shoulder dresses for centuries, and it’s easy to see why they’re still so popular today.

Off-the-shoulder dresses are both elegant and flattering, and they can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. One of the best things about off-the-shoulder dresses is that they can be worn by women of all shapes and sizes.

Whether you’re petite or plus-size, there’s an off-the-shoulder dress that will look great on you.

So next time you’re looking for a stylish and versatile dress, don’t forget to check out the off-the-shoulder options.

V-Neck Dresses

vneck dress for broad shoulders

Dresses are a wardrobe staple for many women.

They come in a variety of styles, from formal to casual, and can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. One popular style of dress is the v-neck. V-neck dresses have a deep V-shaped neckline that can range from mildly revealing to quite daring.

This style is often seen in formal wear, as the plunging neckline can add a touch of elegance to an outfit. However, v-neck dresses can also be great for everyday wear.

Pairing a v-neck dress with a cardigan or scarf can help to create a modest look that is still stylish and cool.

Whether you’re looking for something to wear to a special event or just want to add a new dress to your rotation, a v-neck is a great option.

Halter Dresses

halter dress for broad shoulders

Halter dresses are a type of women’s clothing that wraps around the neck, similar to a halter top.

They are usually sleeveless and can be made from a variety of materials, including cotton, silk, and satin. Halter dresses come in many different styles, from formal gowns to casual summer dresses.

While they are often associated with warm weather, they can also be worn in colder months with the addition of a jacket or shawl. Halter dresses are a flattering choice for women of all shapes and sizes, and they can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a new outfit for a special event or just want to add a little something extra to your everyday wardrobe, a halter dress is sure to turn heads.

Peplum Dresses

peplum dresses

Peplum dresses are the perfect choice for any woman with broad shoulders.

The pleated fabric at your waist will flare out and draw attention away from what would otherwise be an unbalanced figure by emphasizing the lower half of body features like hips or thighs instead!

This also creates more volume below the chest line than higher up, which is great if you want to look taller in heels (or not).

Peplum dresses can be made from a variety of fabrics, including silk, satin, and cotton. They are often decorated with lace, beads, or sequins. Peplum dresses are typically worn to formal occasions, such as weddings or balls.

However, they can also be dressed down for casual wear. Peplum dresses are available in a wide range of colors, including white, black, red, and blue. Whether you’re looking for a statement dress or a classic little black dress, a peplum dress is sure to turn heads.

In closing, these are some of the best dresses for broad shoulders!

With any of these styles, you’re sure to look fabulous and feel confident.

So don’t be afraid to show off your beautiful shoulders. Embrace your unique shape and find a dress that makes you feel amazing.

Categories
Interior Design

Master Bedroom Color Ideas

Need some inspiration and master bedroom color ideas?

Getting bored with your master bedroom and wondering what color to paint it?

Here are 7 colors that will surely spice up your master bedroom.

1) Deep Purple

master bedroom color ideas purple

This is one of the boldest and dark master bedroom colors you can think of, making your master bedroom feel like a luxurious retreat at the end of each day. The deep purple master bedroom design looks especially great when paired with white furniture as this produces a strong contrast effect which makes the whole atmosphere very elegant and chic.

 

2) Bright Pink

 

master bedroom color pinik

This is another bold master bedroom color but in a really girlie way! It is fun and flirty and would make you want to stare at it for hours on end without getting sick of it (which is a big compliment for master bedroom colors). It is also a great color to paint your master bedroom if you have black furniture as it will pop out of the dark background and really stand out from its surroundings.

 

3) Mint Green

 

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/9f/0b/4c/9f0b4c6b43c92337a94bd6d930ee0b32.jpg

Mint green master bedroom ideas are on-trend at the moment, with some people even going as far as painting the whole master suite this lovely pastel green color. You can then combine it with white or pale wood furniture for contrast. If you want to be super brave then go all out and paint everything in different shades of mint green! This may be too much of a good thing but hey – it’s worth trying out!

 

4) Navy Blue

 

master bedroom color navy blue

Navy master bedroom ideas also look very chic and sophisticated, especially if they are combined with a monochromatic master bathroom design. This master bedroom color is great for smaller master bedrooms as it does not make the room feel cramped but on the contrary – spacious and calming. You can add some pop of color through furnishing or accessories such as curtains or lamps to make your master bedroom stand out from the rest of the house while still going along beautifully with this master bedroom color scheme.

 

5) Pale Pink

 

pale pink master bedroom color

Pale pink master bedroom designs look especially amazing when paired with white furniture, which gives a really soft and glamorous effect that you will love waking up to every day. If pale pink is not your thing then you can always combine it with a different master bedroom color such as navy or light blue, depending on the room’s shape and size.

 

6) Brown

brown master bedroom color

“Brown master bedroom ideas? That is one I haven’t thought of!” I hear you say – but believe me, this master bedroom color will have everyone guessing whether it was actually painted brown! It gives a very modern master bedroom look which works best when paired with white furniture. You can then add some chic accessories to your master bathroom design for a luxurious feel that you will thoroughly enjoy coming back to every day.

 

7) White

white master bedroom color

 

White master bedroom colors are always a safe bet if you want master bedroom decorating ideas that work well regardless of what other furnishings or colors you have in the master suite. Paint your master bedroom white and then add some beautiful master bathroom design ideas to really make it stand out from the rest of the house. Choose a color for the master bathroom that complements master bedroom colors such as pale pink or brown, depending on what you go with for your master bedroom design.

With these 7 easy master bedroom decorating ideas, you’ll be one step closer to having an irresistible master suite design that everyone in your family will love!

 

 

Categories
Interior Design

Best Front Door Color Ideas

Looking for the best front door color ideas for your home?

 

Color is an extremely important paint feature that needs to be taken into consideration when painting your front door.

It will determine the mood of your home and even help to define the personality of anyone who enters it. It can make or break your paint job with one simple color choice, so give careful thought to the best paint finish for front doors.

Why paint your front door something boring when you can make your house the most memorable one on the block with a color you love?

After all, your front door is your home’s first impression, so make it a good one.

Below are some tips to help you choose the best paint color for your front door:

 

Consider the architecture of your home.

A brightly colored door on a traditional white colonial home will look out of place, while a black door on a modern home would be too harsh.

Try to find a paint color that compliments the style of your home.

Think about the paint finish.

A glossy paint finish will reflect light and make your door stand out, while a matte paint finish will make it look more subtle.

Consider your neighborhood.

If you live in a neighborhood of predominately earth tones, it may be best to stick with a natural color for your front door paint, but if your house stands out from the paint color of others in your street, paint it a bright and bold color to set it apart.

Don’t paint your front door the same color as paint on your shutters.

It creates an unbalanced look that will leave you feeling dissatisfied with your paint job.

Try using contrasting colors for a more dynamic look.

Be sure to take into account the natural light in your area.

Dark paint color can make a front door look small and uninviting in a sunny spot, while a light paint color can make it look washed out in a shady spot.

The best paint color for your front door is ultimately the paint color that works for you and your home.

There is no paint color that will work universally, so don’t worry about finding the right paint color for your front door; you’ll find it if you look hard enough.

When making the final paint selection, be sure to paint a couple of doors in different paint colors to see which one looks best in the location you have in mind.

You may also want to paint a door a different color every season to keep things interesting.

Whatever paint color you choose, be sure to take proper care of your front door paint finish so that it will look great for years to come.

Categories
Interior Design The Bestie Blog

5 Pet Peeve Entryway Mistakes You Should Avoid

AN ENTRYWAY should feel like an appetizer on your way to the main course,” said New York City interior designer Laura Krey, one of the many designers who wonder at the neglect this key room often endures.

“You must figure out how to define an area that will welcome you and your guests.”

Rugs, wallpaper and seats can delineate where walls don’t. We asked pros like Ms. Ayres for the irksome decorating gaffes they see most frequently, and for their seasoned advice on what to do instead.

 

1. The Family Dump

“Life happens—shoes, bags, jackets and umbrellas get tossed by the front door without a second thought,” said Amanda Khouri, co-founder of design firm Murray Khouri in Nashville. That includes the detritus that Covid has littered our lives with, such as masks and sanitizers. Kristen Peña, of San Francisco’s K Interiors, noted that while we must stay safe, “it’s important that your entry has a more-welcome, less-E.R. feel.”

Instead: Take stock of your habits and clutter and you’ll be able to designate a place for everything without sacrificing beauty, said Ms. Khouri. Are your ever-present water bottle and yoga mat adding visual noise? Tuck them in large fat-weave baskets placed beneath a console or a closed storage piece such as an antique sideboard. To corral Covid supplies, said Ms. Peña, add a good-looking lift-top box to the entry table. Another solution, care of New Orleans designer Maureen Stevens: Ikea’s Hemnes shoe cabinet, easily made more stylish by changing the hardware or adding color and pattern with a stencil or even wallpaper.

 

2. Fugly Rugs

One of the best ways to ruin the view of the beautiful room beyond your entry is “a huge, industrial-strength, waterproof doormat that would look more suitable on a loading dock,” said Carey Karlan, of Last Detail Interiors in Darien, Conn. Puny rugs don’t work either, said Samantha Gallacher, co-founder of IG Workshop in Miami Beach. They look like sloppy floor mats and don’t stay in place, she said.

Instead: “Large rugs in the entry make the space feel like it is designed and intended to welcome guests,” said Dallas interior designer Chad Dorsey. Ms. Gallacher suggests that the rug make a statement as well as introduce the design concept and colors reflected throughout the home. Ms. Karlan favors an Oriental rug. “The thick wool is very absorbent, they clean well, they don’t show dirt and they come in all styles, from contemporary to classic,” she said.

WINNING ENTRY In a foyer in the Pittsburgh suburbs, designer Betsy Wentz refused to play it safe. For the cabinets, she chose vivid Benjamin Moore paint colours that were then layered in lacquer by National Woodwork in Lawrence, Penn. PHOTO: CARMEL BRANTLEY

3. Puny Lights

Foyers with overly diminutive lights aggrieve Philadelphia designer Melinda Kelson O’Connor. “The entry is not the place for ambiguity or mystery. The space should make a statement.” Another hazard, New York-based Kati Curtis pointed out: inappropriately sized fixtures that get lost volumetrically in the space and create a basketball-court ambiance.

Instead: Opt for a striking chandelier and illuminate artwork with perimeter-wall lighting, Ms. O’Connor suggested. “Even a foyer with a low ceiling can have a large, beautiful flush-mount fixture.” Bigger is better, especially in a vaulted space. “Use a fixture that visually fills up the height, adds interest and makes your entry feel more welcoming and less lofty and intimidating,” Ms. Curtis advised.


4. Entryway as Afterthought

Given that it’s the first—and sometimes only—space guests see, it’s remarkable that the foyer is treated like the home’s neglected stepchild. “It is the place where brownies are dropped off and play dates are exchanged,” said Sewickley, Penn., designer Betsy Wentz. Still, homeowners frequently leave foyers sparse and undecorated, which feels lonely and off-putting, said Los Angeles designer Lindsay Pennington.

Instead: Ms. Pennington recommends hanging an impressive mirror to expand the space and choosing a chest over a console if you have room. “Drawers make life easier,” she said. Eilyn Jimnez, founder of Miami’s Sire Design, suggested including vintage pieces, found items and family heirlooms in a curated way. “These items are a great way to tell the story of your home.”


5. Overdoing the Wow

On the other hand, don’t mistake your foyer for a receiving room at the Vatican. It’s too much if you’ve added treatments to floors, walls and ceiling and crammed in bold lighting and furniture, said San Francisco designer Lindsay Anyon Brier. “The entry should be the opening paragraph of the home. It should begin to introduce the plot but not give everything away.”

Instead: One strong design idea can be enough, said Tal Schori, partner at Brooklyn’s GRT Architects. He welcomed both warmth and function into the 3-foot-by-5-foot entry of a narrow townhouse by hanging unique, muted ombré wallpaper, screwing in a glass sconce and installing three brass hooks. Ms. Brier likes to highlight a sole piece of art or a light fixture that is sculptural by day and becomes a glowing focal point in the evening. “Make it spectacular but in a less-is-more way,” said Ms. Brier.


ODD ARRIVALS

The funniest foyers designers have stepped into

I walked into a foyer and noticed only the enormous, completely-out-of-scale lantern, hung way too low, and a complete lack of furniture to balance it. The embodiment of inhospitality, the room offered nowhere to drop your purse, your key or mail and certainly no spot to sit.” —Rebekah Zaveloff, co-founder and director of Kitchen Lab Interiors, Chicago

Suffice it to say a dearly departed taxidermy dog is best left to a more private part of the residence.” —Fernando Wong, landscape and interior designer, Palm Beach, Fla.

An entryway doubled as a laundry depot. It’s so awkward to see someone’s dirty underwear before shaking their hand, and it’s always a mistake to leave your undergarments by the front door.” —Isabel Ladd, designer, Lexington, Ky.

I had a client who was obsessed with Star Wars. He had a curio cabinet full of Star Wars memorabilia, as well as a life-size cutout of Princess Leia, in his entryway.” —Mary Patton, designer, Houston

Reprinted by permission of The Wall Street Journal, Copyright 2021 Dow Jones & Company. Inc. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Original date of publication: May 28, 2021.

Categories
Interior Design The Bestie Blog

7 Design Mistakes to Avoid When Planning Your Outdoor Rooms

Rooms inside a house are pretty straightforward: a dining room is used for dining, a bedroom for sleeping, a bathroom for bathing, and so on. How you approach designing your outdoor space is an entirely personal decision, but there are some basic rules to follow. Among them:

Focal point: Establishing a focal point is an essential part of smart design for an outdoor room. Focal points help guide the eye to a favorable part of the room and away from a less favorable area. They can also act as points of interest.

Vertical space: If your outdoor room has a wall or two, or even a suggested wall, take advantage of the space by using urns or vases with tall ornamental grasses or patio trees, climbing vines or espaliered shrubs. Also think about using hanging outdoor lights, chandeliers, wind chimes, pedestals, and raised planters.

Style or design: If you have no clue how to decorate, consider the architectural style of your house along with its proportions and the exterior materials that are used. Also, look at the house for patterns and details you can replicate in your outdoor room.


Mistake 1

Forgetting It’s Outdoors, Not Indoors

Some enthusiastic decorators get so carried away that they forget they are furnishing an outdoor room. Maybe you’ve seen someone’s patio that looks like they pushed the living room sofa, lounger, coffee table, and even fake plants outside. Or, they’ve relegated the old sofa from the den to the patio or backyard. Don’t even think about it.

It’s always good to reach for a seamless transition between your interior and exterior, but using the same furniture (or something very similar) is taking it too far.


Mistake 2

Too Much or Not Enough Furniture

You’re thrilled to finally have a designated outdoor room. Inside those three-or-so outdoor walls, you have amassed your favorite patio furniture—that Brown Jordan Tamiami set you scored from an estate sale last year, along with Grandma’s porch glider, your husband’s beloved couch from the deck of his former frat house, and the kids’ plastic dining set. No wonder it looks more like a patio furniture yard sale rather than a cohesive, carefully curated and arranged outdoor room.

Tying It All Together

The furniture pieces don’t have to match, but something should tie them together—materials, color, height, scale, era, etc. Too much of anything crammed into one space is probably not the look you’re after, nor is it functional or liveable. Select items from your collection that look good (alone and together with other pieces), are comfortable and will hold up outdoors.

If you’re starting from scratch, either buy new or used items in good shape that go together—again, through materials (wood, aluminum, sling) and design (shape, style, era, if old).

Minimalism and Nonexistent

In our cluttered worlds, many people prefer the KonMari method or the simplicity of minimalism. This can be lovely, just don’t forget to add a hint of personality, like adding a piece of pottery, a plant, maybe a pillow.

Then there are those who are either indecisive or procrastinate when it comes to furnishing any room, and leave it empty. This is space you could be enjoying. Do something!


Mistake 3

Under Accessorizing or No Decor

Picture this: you go to a store to purchase one of those comfortable deep-seating outdoor sets with two connecting sofas and matching ottomans. Maybe you buy a table or two with a frame that matches the set. This type of set is usually all tan, beige, taupe, fawn, off-white, or greige.

After coming home, you set it up in your outdoor room, take a few steps back, and wonder what’s missing.

Accessories. And by that, we mean outdoor accessories, not something you move from your living room to the outdoor room. Outdoor accessories should be waterproof and able to withstand the elements, although you will wisely bring them inside or under cover during the offseason or weather events, like tornadoes, hurricanes, storms, etc.

Outdoor decor and accessories include:

  • Garden statues
  • Pottery, containers, urns
  • Wind chimes
  • Hanging ornaments
  • Outdoor wall art
  • Pillows and cushions
  • Candles
  • Lighting fixtures

Of course, you can have an outdoor room with too many accessories, which becomes busy, excessive, confusing, and overstated.


Mistake 4

No Plants

In planning an outdoor room, you thought that you had included all of the components: a nice deep-seating set, a few occasional tables, and a container or two. Hmmm—what seems to be missing? How about the green stuff, as in potted plants, patio trees, a dish garden, or even a vase of cut roses from nearby bushes?

Plants can help soften an outdoor room. If chosen wisely, you can even add a sweet-smelling plumeria or gardenia into the mix, for a pleasant experience when light winds kick up the scent in the evening.


Mistake 5

Poor Furniture Arrangement

Think about seating arrangement and creating conversation areas when you design a patio or outdoor room. The settee or chairs should be close enough to carry on a conversation without shouting, leaving enough space to move around. Chairs should be gathered around a low table for drinks or plates.

If you line up patio furniture against the walls of your outdoor room—sort of a “firing squad” design approach that doesn’t always work indoors or out—you’ll have a nice big bare spot in the middle of the room. Which is great if you plan on using the space for dancing or a little after-dinner karaoke.


Mistake 6

Color Issues

Mistakes with color design occur when either too little color is used or the wrong colors are used together. Much of the outdoor furniture available comes with cushions in neutral tones, like white, tan, beige, or gray. Neutrals provide a subtle background for colorful pillows and accessories in a few well-chosen or favorite colors. It looks bland or incomplete if the set is left alone, with no accents—like it was pulled out of the box and then you got distracted.

On the other hand, using too much color can be a bit loud, but if they complement one another, the effect can be lively and vibrant.

Some suggestions:

  • Primary colors: As a refresher, primary colors are red, blue and yellow. These can work outdoors by allowing one color to take a dominant role while the others are used more sparingly. For example, the same hue of blue is repeated throughout the outdoor room and surrounding landscape, followed by a smaller amount of yellow. Red is used as an occasional accent.
  • Earth tones: This would include browns, tans, greys, etc. Punch it up a bit with a bright orange or royal blue pillow and pottery.
  • Analogous: Three colors side-by-side on the color wheel, like yellow, yellow-orange and orange.
  • Favorite colors: You know what these are. Hopefully, no mauve or dusty rose.
  • Colors in the garden: Echo colors from the garden, like those purple irises, orange calendula, a blue similar to the pool water, or even green—there should be plenty of that.

Mistake 7

Proportion and Scale

Let’s take the space of your outdoor room—say it’s a 12 x 12-foot gazebo. Now gather all of the elements that go into that room—outdoor furniture, accessories, and plants—and fill it up. If you have, say, one tall bistro table with a couple of matching chairs and an 8-inch pot of calla lilies left over from Mother’s Day, your outdoor room might look kind of bare. Minimalism is nice, but neglected or not well-thought-out is another thing entirely.

Overcrowding

On the other end of the, umm, scale, let’s say you have an overabundance of patio furnishings, and you can’t wait to crowd them all into your new outdoor room. There might be no space to walk, not to mention everything looks like you’re holding a garage sale under a tent.

In a well-proportioned outdoor room, the space should be designed for your favorite activity. This might include dining, relaxing, or entertaining. How about an impromptu game of badminton? Good luck with that. Choose furniture that is attractive, functional, and that fits the space. Add accessories sparingly at first, with smaller objects placed in front of larger ones, whether they are potted plants, statuary or other types of garden decor.

 

Courtesy of www.thespruce.com

Categories
Fashion The Bestie Blog

2023 Summer Accessories Trends

When it comes to this year’s accessories, it’s all about small details and functionality. We want personalized jewelry to express ourselves over Zoom. We want necklaces that double as holders for our masks and sunglasses, and we want earrings that are subtle and dainty. We want headbands to quickly style our hair and crossbody bags that free up our hands! Finally, when it comes to beauty, we realize that less truly is more.

 

Colors

In the 2023 Spring & Summer Shoe Styles post, I told you to keep an eye out for blues, rose gold, and newer neutrals like blush. This holds true for accessories too! A few other color trends you’ll want to know:

  • Brightly colored crossbody bags (especially yellow)!
  • Gold is the metal of the moment! Watch for gold earrings and necklaces
  • Soft pink nail polish

Textures and Patterns

  • Quilted
  • Braided
  • Denim
  • Chains – look for crossbody purses with large chain links!
  • Florals
  • Blue Gingham (This trend is so big, it’s getting its own post in a couple of weeks!)
  • Crossbody bags with a stripe on the strap
  • Textured earrings
  • Animal print or snakeskin print belts

Long Necklaces

Long necklaces are replacing shorter choker necklaces this year. Lariat necklaces are also big! I love this style because it’s easy to adjust your necklace to your preferred length. Use these to spice up a plain shirt, or pair them perfectly with a tiered dress – arguably the hottest style trend of 2023!


Gold Hoops and Pearl Drop Earrings

For earrings this year, keep them dainty and pretty to compliment your brightly colored wardrobe! Simple is better, so think smaller hoops (sometimes called “Huggies”) and drop earrings. Or, check out these convertible earrings to make the best of both worlds! Earrings with small flowers add just the right touch of spring. Also, rose quartz is trending, and gold is beginning to replace silver. We saw pearl jewelry hit the scene last spring, but this year, brands are going all-in on the trend! Case in point, check out the stunning pearl jewelry collection at J.Crew! Classic pearls will never go out of style, but in general, you’ll see more freshwater pearls available right now. If you prefer classic pearls, look for pearl cluster earrings.

“Statement earrings” are pretty much finished making their statement! Think smaller and feminine.

 


Chain Link Jewelry

Chain link is everywhere! You’ll see it used on handbags, on necklaces, and on bracelets galore. This is an easy trend to incorporate into your existing wardrobe and it will give you an instant update!


Beach Beads

Beach Beads are so fun and perfect for…well… a beachy summer vibe! Sometimes they’re colorful, or sometimes they’re just gold or neutral, but they always come with a name or inspirational message. These are a huge trend this year. Choose one with a sweet message, or get creative and make your own.

Stack these to make a big style statement!


Flower Month Jewelry

We all love our birthstone jewels, but have you heard of flower month jewelry? It is one of the most trending searches on Etsy right now, and people are raving about them in the comments!


Initial Necklaces

Single initial necklaces are everywhere you look this spring. From high-end to really inexpensive, there’s one in everyone’s price range.


Personalized Apple Watch Bands

 

Apple Watch bands are one of those universal trends that everyone loves! With the trend toward personalization this year, a big trend is monogrammed Apple Watch bands. I think they’re adorable!


Quilted Handbags

Quilted shoes are huge this season and so are quilted handbags! The bag that started the entire trend? I guarantee you will see these all over the place! Other popular styles include quilted backpacks and totes.


Crossbody Bags

I’m a huge fan of crossbody bags because I love to have my hands free. Especially with whipping a mask on and off these days, the last thing we need to worry about is carrying a purse! I don’t know about you, but I plan to be on the GO this year, and I’m ready to have easy access to my purse. Keep your eye open for spring florals and woven bags!


Reversible Tote Bags

Talk about wanting to make things easier on ourselves in 2023…reversible tote bags are SO handy! This tote went viral and sold out fast, but is thankfully back in stock with 1.7K amazing reviews! It’s perfect for vacation so you don’t have to bring multiple purses to coordinate with your outfits. Also, you might want to look for spring florals and woven patterns that give the option of a fun design on the reverse side!


Knotted and Braided Headbands

This is the lazy girl’s perfect spring and summer accessory! Do what Princess Kate does and throw on one of these bad boys for an instant outfit upgrade or pop of bright color! How easy is that?!

The knot on top is elongating, meaning it will give the optical illusion of drawing the eye up—making you look taller and slimmer!


Sunnies

Are you ready to swap your blue light glasses for some sunglasses!? This year’s sunglasses trends include classic frames with a modern twist. Think cat eye, but a little more subtle. Lightly tinted gradient lenses are hot, especially pink ones! And, of course, everyone’s favorite 70’s tribute, the good old aviator. Go for mirrored lenses if you’re feelin’ trendy!

Categories
Fashion The Bestie Blog

7 Tips To Wearing Stripes

Stripes could be the most popular print out there in fashion. Over the years, it’s become much less nautical and much more everyday wear. Stripes are versatile, stylish, and timeless. They can be dressed up or down, and worn a multitude of ways. When it comes to wearing stripes, there might not necessarily be any set rules (it’s been quite a while since there have last been rules in fashion, right?), but there are some tips and pointers when wearing this beloved print.

 

1. Think thin

When it comes to more form fitting pieces (dressesskirts, etc.), thinner stripes will typically be more flattering.


2. Veer vertical on bottom

In terms of pants, it’s best to stick to vertical stripes if you’re on the shorter side (like me!), as horizontal on your bottom half can make you appear wider than you are, and vertical stripes will be elongating (solely referring to pants here, not skirts – horizontal stripes on skirts, at all heights, work well).


3. Mix it up

Don’t be afraid of mixing widths. A wider, horizontal striped top paired with a wide leg thinner striped pair of pants is certainly a chic look. As well, mixing horizontal and vertical on top and bottom is a great option, too.


4. Live Colorfully

Colorful stripes are always a good idea. Don’t be shy when it comes to color. In our book, the more color the better.

5. Diversify 

Stripes mixed with other prints, such as florals and geometric, lends itself to a fun, slightly unexpected look.


6. Give the eye a break

We’re all about wearing a monochromatic striped look, but if you’re going for striped bottoms with a striped top, stick to a solid (or printed, but not striped) pair of shoes and bag. Stripes on stripes is one thing, but stripes on stripes on stripes on stripes is another.


7. Start small

If you’re not totally and completely feeling stripes (it’s ok, we’ll forgive you!), you can add them into your wardrobe by way of accessoriesjewelry, and even shoes.

 

 

 

Written by Julie Weinstein

Categories
Interior Design The Bestie Blog

How to Decorate With a Striped Couch

A striped couch can add a touch of whimsy, a cottage-style vibe, or a conservative air of business to a room, depending on the color and types of stripes on the fabric. If the couch is covered in bold colored stripes, keeping stripes to a minimum on the rest of the decor will keep the look from becoming overwhelming. Your selection of throw pillows, pillows, wall decor, and floor coverings, as well as the fabric or finish on other chairs, will determine whether the striped couch creates casual flair, an eclectic vibe, or is simply used as a splash of pattern in otherwise basic room decor.

 


Mix and Match, Yet Classy

A striped couch needn’t match everything or even anything else in the room — it can simply stand out on its own as a statement piece without overpowering the rest of the furniture in the room. This look combines the stripes of a couch in conservative or neutral colors, a floral or paisley print on a sofa, loveseat or armchair, with additional pieces in neutral, solid tones. The variety of pieces in this type of styling suggest grown-up eclecticism — things don’t match, yet each on its own is fairly conservative and the grouping as a whole, including wall and floor decor, seems to fit together.

 


Conservatism

For a more conservative look, the couch striping is in neutral or conservative colors, such as shades of beige or navy. Fabric-covered chairs match one of the colors of the couch stripes, and accent rugs and wall coverings are also in the same color family. Throw pillows feature either the striped fabric or one of the colors of the couch fabric. The vibe is conservative and yet comfortable.

 


Eclectic Whimsy

Stripes can run the gamut from conservative to the fun. A couch of bright stripes adds to the air of whimsy in an arrangement of funky furniture shapes, vibrant chairs and tables, colorful wall art, and playful accent pieces. Pieces need not match in an eclectic room — the more offbeat and unusual, the better, and it is the non-matching quality that ties the room together. This type of room is full of creative, artistic energy and is well suited for a creative personality.

 


Cottage Coziness

Some gently striped couches fit nicely into a cottage or shabby chic ambiance. A comfy couch with white or light blue pastel striping becomes a centerpiece in a comfortable cottage-style room, especially one with plank walls. Pastels, whites, and whitewashing round out the decor with a variety of antiques and vintage-style accessories that feature the mellow, peaceful colors of the stripes. For a waterfront cottage, wall decor and accents featuring water and boating themes complete the look.

 

Categories
Interior Design The Bestie Blog

How to Contrast Neutrals With Bold Colors

There’s a reason why so many masterful paintings and well-designed rooms are composed of neutrals, accented by a few spots of intense, fully saturated color. It’s a central principle of art and interior design: Bright colors appear more vivid when surrounded by neutral colors. Neutrals provide a unifying function for rooms, enhancing the beauty of bright accent pieces by drawing the eye toward luminous spots of vivid color. People are instinctively drawn to this ordered color scheme, finding it more soothing than rooms where colors with equal intensity compete for their attention.


Tone on Tone

In this subtle, sophisticated approach, variations of one color are deployed throughout the room. Tone on tone is associated with severe, spartan styles. However, it can be enlivened by the placement of a few bright accessories in the same hue family. A room with pale green-gray walls and curtains, pewter frames with green-gray mats, and a dark green-gray sofa could be enlivened by bright mint green lamp shades or painted teal end tables.

 


Complementary Neutrals

Color wheel opposites, called complementary colors, don’t always give a room the drama of a Van Gogh painting. However, if the undertones of the room’s neutrals are complementary to its bright accents, a sense of drama can exist within a calming, unified framework. A bedroom with slate-gray walls and oak floors already has a neutral complimentary backdrop. By adding curtains and a comforter with a slate-gray and tan pattern, you reiterate that interplay. Add bright blue pillows and a vivid orange vase, and they will glow, being the brightest versions of the featured complimentary pair. The same concept can be applied to other complementary pairs, such as green-gray and red, or purple-gray and yellow.

 


Textured Neutrals

Contrast can also be established through textured neutrals. Simple wall treatments, such as glazes, create subtle texture with a thin, translucent color glaze over an opaque white or cream underlayer. Since two contrasting layers of paint are visible, filtering light in different ways, a sense of depth is felt throughout the room. The eye travels a linked path from a distressed tan leather chair to an ornate gold frame on a smooth, tan wall. In the same way, it travels from the smooth expanse of dark cabinetry to a dark, speckled warm-gray granite countertop. Bright accessories can also feature textural contrast, such as red throw pillows in floral and smooth velvet fabrics.

 


Flexible Neutrals

Neutral color schemes also offer greater flexibility, allowing you to easily change accent colors, thereby updating your decor as styles change. Accent items are less labor-intensive and costly to change than walls, flooring, and larger furniture. When choosing neutrals, keep favored accent colors in mind, selecting neutrals that contrast well with loved brights. One method for selecting a neutral palette involves dividing neutrals into warm and cool camps. Cool neutrals, such as blue and green grays, contrast well with warm brights, such as reds and oranges. Warm neutrals, such as creams, browns, and taupes, contrast better with cool brights, including blues, purples, and cool greens.

 

 

 

 

 

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