Silver Springs

Spring is all about bright colours and pastels, but I think it's fun to mix in a bit of silver in there as well. You can be happy to know that silver is (basically) considered a neutral - without the sheen it's basically grey! I was searching online and compiled a list of pictures, all incorporating silver, and one special picture (numero 2) with my favourite make up look for the Spring 2012 season - CLEAN! So fresh and so clean, clean.

1. Silver on the fingers, silver on the wrists. I love how silver jewelry looks stacked up against black & brown leather. Also, the chunkier, the better! Watches will help do the trick.

2. Clean make up! Light lips and cheeks paired with dewy skin. Ahh, if only the winter weather would stop wreaking havoc on my poor skin!

3. Hair cuffs. How genius is this? I remember when wrapping a strand of hair around your ponytail was so cool. I mean, it still is, but a hair cuff in silver takes it up a notch.

4. Geometric jewels gives an automatic dose of edge to your outfit. Sure, we've seen studs before (especially on denim. It's everyone's favourite DIY apparently), but I particularly like them on rings and necklaces.

5. An oversized envelope clutch + silver = accessory heaven.

Are you a silver or a gold girl?

Spring Time Manicure

 

One thing I love about the Spring season is when nail polish companies start coming out with fun new pastel polishes. I love a great bright varnish, but there's something about those pastels that is so perfect for when the weather starts heating up & the sun comes out to play. OPI recently came out with their Ballet collection which is a compilation of (mostly) pale pinks and purples to capture the essence of a ballerina. Likewise, the Nicki Minaj collection and Holland collection have both been very popular and full of punchy hues that will add a nice splash of colour to your wardrobe without having to pay the big bucks for a new outfit.

What to look for:
Mint green/softer olive tones, pale pink,
periwinkle blue (China Glaze has a gorgeous periwinkle colour),
light purple, pinkish nudes, and soft rose tones.

I have always been a fan of having a statement finger with polish, too. This is especially fun when it is done with glitter, a matte top coat or something extra sparkly - like a metallic. Not only do you get your dose of spring time pastels, but you kill two birds with one stone with a shot of bling!

Now, I leave you with some wise words from my poodle friend. Lunch, or OPI collection?

Versace x H&M - Yes, Again.

I must say, I wasn't too thrilled with the Versace x H&M collection that sprang upon us before the holidays in 2011. There's something about all that gold and loudness that didn't resonate well with me. However, I came across this on Tumblr (I apologize - I forget which blog it was from!), and I must say I am surprised and actually looking forward to the collection.

Above: Versace x H&M Cruise Collection.

I think it is perfect for the spring season as it incorporates so many colours that are trendy for the upcoming season. Once spring rolls around (goodbye, dreary rain!), I will be more than happy to add some flashes of colour and prints into my wardrobe. I especially love the purple printed dress (top right corner), as well as the shoes and funky belts! I think any of these pieces would be fun to style & work with, too!

Anyway, just a little preview for you! Happy Thursday, friends!

Calvin Klein Spring 2012 Ready To Wear Collection

Calvin Klein Spring 2012 Ready-to-Wear Collection

By Holly Douglas

“Costa has practiced one half of the Calvin Klein brand DNA, minimalism; this season he nailed the sensuous part of the house code, too.” – Nicole Phelps, Style.com. There is no doubt that Calvin Klein’s Spring 2012 Ready to Wear Collection was a hit amongst media mavens world-wide. Women’s Wear Daily described Klein’s collection as “ethereal” with “sturdier tailoring” when describing the classic tuxedo jackets with satin lapels. In addition, it appears that Klein’s subtle shades of nude, pale yellow, silver, and black were a breath of fresh air this spring season. “In a season over saturated with either pale French boudoir colors or Warhol Pop brights, he showed black clothes cut with exquisite skill.” – Andre Leon Talley, Vogue.

Although I usually enjoy a bright, eye catching pop of colour, it was refreshing to see these cool hues in Calvin Klein’s collection. The mix of metallic, floating dresses (a huge jump from Alicia Silverstone’s Calvin Klein dress in the 1995 flick “Clueless”), structured jackets, and soft fabrics made me yearn to have these pieces in my own wardrobe. However, as the dark, black pieces moved down the runway, I couldn’t help but think of fall and pulling on a Calvin Klein oversized blazer (albeit from this collection). Nevertheless, the surprising inclusion of black, lingerie-inspired pieces also intrigued me. They created the perfect balance of sensuality to the garments, while at the same time remaining lady-like and true to the Calvin Klein image.

I felt as if Calvin Klein designed each of these pieces for a powerful woman who is comfortable in her own body. With fabrics that brush so closely to your shape, there is no room for insecurities. Fortunately, the sales potential for this particular collection would benefit any company, as it is sensible with a touch of femininity. Items such as the mid-calf length, flowing white dress (modeled by Merilin Perli) is not only functional for the working woman, but a great addition to the trendsetter’s wardrobe. After all, the little white dress popped up on the fashion radar several times, and Calvin Klein’s rendition could almost be deemed as a “classic.” Since it is on trend, minimalistic and chic, it will appeal to a variety of women. In addition to the little white dress, the well-constructed black suit (modeled by Mirte Mass) continues to make its’ way into women’s closets year after year. However, Klein’s version lends extra detail to the physique with strategically placed pleating to highlight the upper body. This is what sets his suits apart from others. Women everywhere will be drawn to this piece, whether they are twenty five or forty five. A good suit is always in style! Furthermore, the black slip dress (modeled by Marleen Gaasbeek) is, too, unforgettable. Klein’s twist on the slip dress is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it is an item that can fit into any woman’s bureau, no matter her personal style. Every woman searches for the perfect black dress, and while this dress hugs your curves, it simultaneously flatters the figure. How can you go wrong? Finally, Calvin Klein continuously delivers beautiful clothing to women. He is a man out to win our hearts , and he never fails to fill our closets with style!