8 Essential Style Tips Petite Girls Need to Know

As anyone who is deviates from the “average” range in apparel knows, it’s difficult to find things that will fit perfectly.  Being 5″2, I’ve struggled with finding things that actually fit right without having to enlist the help of a tailor for each item purchased.  Jeans, skirts, and sleeves are too long or too short…a maxi skirt will never fit you if you’re under 5″5…and seriously, what is up with “Petite” or “Short” jeans?  At 5″2, they have always looked like capris on me, making me wonder how short are the people they were created for?

Here are 8 shopping tips for my fellow shorty’s.  Or shawty’s.  Or, as my auto-correct would like to believe,  shanty’s (although I have no clue as to what shanty’s are).

petite shopping tips

Now that you know what to look for when shopping, here are my top picks of where to shop for petite clothing that fits perfectly:

Moderately-Priced Brands:

Express, J. Crew, Anthropologie, and Ann Taylor LOFT.

Contemporary/Bridge:

Theory, BCBG, J. Brand (I actually love their petite-sized denim!).

Do you have any petite styling tips or favorite shops to add to this list?  Share in the comments below!

xo

What’s What: The Top Trending 5 This Week

What’s Trending this Week:

1.

This week marks the second week of December, which means the Christmas Hustle is on.  Check out this ultimate holiday gift guide here for last-minute gifts for everyone on your list.

2.

A random stranger caught the perfect engagement moment on camera…and by the grace of social media, the couple was able to track down the photographer and the darling photo.  Read more about this wonderful coincidence here.  Then, check out Harper’s Bazaar’s top 100 engagement rings inspiration here.

3.

pantone color of the year 2016

Pantone officially declared two colors of the year for 2016: Rose Quartz & Serenity.  Rose Quartz is a dusty rose hue, while Serenity is a soft, purplish blue, which represent the blending and blurring of gender lines.  Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, explains, “In many parts of the world we are experiencing a gender blur as it relates to fashion, which has in turn impacted color trends throughout all other areas of design.  This, [with] societal movements toward gender equality and fluidity, the consumer’s increased comfort with using color as a form of expression, a generation that has less concern about being typecast or judged and an open exchange of digital information.

4.

Scientists have finally discovered the secret to Rapunzel-esque locks: Mushrooms.  Read more about the how and why here.

5.

Pirelli's 2016 calendar includes (from left) Amy Schumer, Yao Chen, and Serena Williams

Pirelli’s 2016 calendar includes (from left) Amy Schumer, Yao Chen, and Serena Williams

Pirelli is changing things up for their annual calendar.  For their 2016 edition, they traded out their pages of sexy, provocative stars with influential and powerful women that includes businesswomen, athletes, and other world thinkers alike.  The cast includes Fran Lebowitz, Yoko Ono, and Tavi Gevinson, to name a few.  Check out the other photos and inspiration behind it here.

I hope you all have an amazing week!

xo

Trending Now: 15 Classic Trench Coats That Will Never Go Out Of Style

A classic trench is an essential of every wardrobe.  There’s really no quintessential equivalent to the camel trench coat.  It simply exudes class, sophistication, and elegance, whether worn with a dress, a suit, or simply a pair of jeans.

Fall Classic Camel Coats
At this point, you’re probably thinking, Why, yes, I do need a camel trench coat, and I’m really not certain how I’ve lived my life without one….until now.
(Congratulations on your newfound realization!)
Now that you’ve taken a few seconds to let it soak in, your mind is probably overloaded with questions.  What details do I want on my trench?  Should I choose a belted, a button-up, or both?!  Oversized or fitted?  Do I splurge on a luxurious high-quality version so that it can last through many more winters to come?
While all of these questions are perfectly valid and understandable, know that you can simply sit back (let Trends & Tribulations do the heavy lifting here, darling) and relax while you feast your eyes on these shoppable beauties below.  All you gotta do is scroll.
(You’re welcome.  I love you, too.  Don’t get weird.)

( 1 )

Gucci Wool-Blend Trench Coat, $2,919

Gucci Wool-Blend Trench Coat, $2,919

( 2 )

Proenza Schouler belted trench coat, $1,916.53

Proenza Schouler belted trench coat, $1,916.53

( 3 )

Saint Laurent belted trench coat, $5,990.00

Saint Laurent belted trench coat, $5,990.00

( 4 )

Burberry London The Kensington Mid wool and cashmere-blend felt trench coat, $1,595

Burberry London The Kensington Mid wool and cashmere-blend felt trench coat, $1,595

( 5 )

Jason Wu belted long trench coat, $3,995.00

Jason Wu belted long trench coat, $3,995.00

( 6 )

Akris oversized lapels belted coat, $1,498.09

Akris oversized lapels belted coat, $1,498.09

 

( 7 )

Carven Belted Double-Breasted Coat, $1,520

Carven Belted Double-Breasted Coat, $1,520

( 8 )

Burberry London Checked cashmere-blend cape, $989

Burberry London Checked cashmere-blend cape, $989

(I know, I know, it’s not a trench.  But you have to admit, it’s pretty darn cute.)

( 9 )

Rag & Bone Faye Coat, $995

Rag & Bone Faye Coat, $995

( 10 )

Boss Cepina Wool Cashmere Coat, $625.00

Boss Cepina Wool Cashmere Coat, $625.00

( 11 )

J.Crew Brown Collection Double-faced Italian Wool Sleeveless Coat, $495

J.Crew Brown Collection Double-faced Italian Wool Sleeveless Coat, $495

(Perhaps a sleeveless version would tickle your fancy…)

( 12 )

Banana Republic Camel Double Breasted Coat, $298

Banana Republic Camel Double Breasted Coat, $298

 

( 13 )

Frame Denim Le Duster suede coat, $1,400

Frame Denim Le Duster suede coat, $1,400

 

( 14 )

Burberry London fitted trench coat, $4,939.31

Burberry London fitted trench coat, $4,939.31

 

( 15 )

Stella McCartney Bryce wool-blend coat, $1,690

Stella McCartney Bryce wool-blend coat, $1,690

Which is your favorite?  Do you have a classic camel-colored trench coat, or do you disagree that it is a wardrobe staple?  Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Love you guys, xo

7 Super Cool Yoga Brands You’ve Never Heard Of

7 Awesome Yoga Brands That Aren’t LuluLemon

Trends & Tribulations

While we are forever grateful to Lululemon for being the pioneers of fashionable yoga gear (because, obviously, it needed to happen…), there are so many new and exciting yoga apparel brands popping up every day.  Considering the last year’s market where sales of athletic pants equaled the sales of denim, it is really not a surprise that more and more companies are banking on the athleisure trend.  In honor of the recent article I wrote for MNYoga, here’s the skinny on the coolest yoga gear that’s (ahem) not LuluLemon.  Enjoy, loves!

( 1 )

The Upside

The Upside

The Upside

( 2 )

Sweaty Betty

sweaty betty

This British retailer was founded in 1998 to “inspire women to find empowerment through fitness“.  They combine innovative, feminine designs with technical fabrics.  Plus, they give super cute reusable bags adorned with their geometric logo and motivational quotes with purchase.

( 3 )

Lucas Hugh

Lucas Hugh

Lucas Hugh has an emphasis on futuristic prints and high-quality, technical fabrics that feature reinforced stitching and streamlined fused seams for unrestricted movement.  The designer, Anjhe Mules, uses her fashion and swimwear expertise to cut and craft yoga wear that flatters a women’s physique, while feeling comfortable and able to stretch freely.

lucas hugh

( 4 )

Alo Yoga

alo yoga

This retailer is inspired by life in the fashion and healthy-lifestyle mecca Los Angeles.  They test out all their gear on real yogi’s before putting it to market to ensure a slim and functional fit.  Plus, their color blocking is so perfect to mix and match tops and pants together.  Who knew you could feel so put together in yoga clothing?

( 5 )

WearGrace

Screen Shot 2015-05-04 at 10.46.40 PM

WearGrace is yoga clothing designed for both on and off the mat.  Its creator is former art director, graphic designer, and then Director of Image for the Gucci group (creative agency for all the brands: Gucci, YSL, Mcqueen, Balenciaga, and Sergio Rossi, among others) who found yoga after a few incidences happened simultaneously, and she found herself unable to walk and lost her father and husband.  The founder, Karen Joyce, explains that her yoga practice became an analogy for her life.

weargrace is a message, a belief and an emotion.

weargrace is a message, a belief and an emotion.

( 6 )

Onzie

Onzie

Onzie

Onzie was created by a 20-year Bikram yoga practician to create affordably-priced clothing that is functional, flexible, and flattering.  Their lightweight, fast-drying fabric allows you to move freely whether you are doing yoga, pilates, spinning, swimming, surfing, or running.

( 7 )

Teeki

Teeki

Teeki

Clothing made from recycled plastic bottles?  This LA-based retailer creates yoga pants and tops using fabric that is spun from fibers made out of recycled plastic water bottles, then cut, printed, and hand sewn using environmentally friendly practices.  Plus, everything is manufactured in the U.S., which provides jobs to Americans and reduces their carbon footprint.  Considering it takes over 400 years for plastic bottles to biodegrade, this is such an amazing way to help out the environment and offsets the need to produce new raw materials.  All that aside, I can personally attest to how unbelievably soft and lightweight their material is, as I own at least a few pairs of their pants (just doing my part for the environment….), and oh, my, are they just daaaarling.

Teeki

Teeki

What are your favorite athletic brands?  Do you shop at any of labels featured above?

xo

40 Fashion Mistakes You May Be Making

7 Fashion Faux Pas You Need to Stop Making Now

via DFWStyleDaily

via DFWStyleDaily

( 1 )

You believe white shouldn’t be worn after labor day.

Ladies, listen up: This is an antiquated rule that shouldn’t be followed. As countless designers and fashion stars have proved during the past few seasons, white isn’t only appropriate when the weather turns chilly, but also amazingly fresh and modern. One thing to keep in mind when tackling the white-in-winter trend: It’s all about the fabric. Lighter textiles such as white cotton, linen, canvas, and seersucker will look out of place during fall and winter, so be sure you’re reaching for white wool, cashmere, fur, mohair, flannel, silk, and leather.

via Twice-Fashion

via Twice-Fashion

( 2 )

You always buy the same size in clothes.

As any woman who’s shopped high-fashion and fast-fashion knows, sizing can vary tremendously according to store, brand, and item. Cheaper clothing typically runs way bigger, making it common for a woman to wear, say, a size Large at Forever 21, but still be a size 2 in Stella McCartney. Don’t sweat the number—pay attention to how things look on your body instead.

( 3 )

You wear retro pieces without a modern spin.

The perfect modern spin on a retro look.

The perfect modern spin on a retro look.

We all know that fashion is cyclical and that everything comes back around, but that doesn’t mean you should dress in full of-another-decade outfits, which could run the risk of making you look like you’re both in costume and 10 years older.

Love the look of a wild ’80s neon sweater you found at the Salvation Army? Leave the leggings and sneakers at home and opt for a pair of super-sleek skinny jeans, natural hair and makeup, and a great pair of ankle boots. Found a vintage swingy midi-skirt? Style it with modern staples like a cropped leather jacket and a sleek pair of pointy heels as opposed to wearing a pussy-bow blouse and pearls.

( 4 )

You think ‘dry clean only’ tags are always correct.

via Jeremy Brooks

via Jeremy Brooks

If a garment says it needs to be dry-cleaned, it won’t hurt to follow suit, but that can get pricey—especially since some items technically don’t need to be professionally cleaned. Many high-end brands that manufacture items in washable fabrics will often say “dry clean only”  to keep up the higher-end vibe. Furthermore, certain fabrics such as cashmere actually hold up better when they’re washed by hand as opposed to getting dry-cleaned. Here’s a good guide to help you figure out what doesn’t really have to be cleaned by a pro.

( 5 )

You believe tall women shouldn’t wear heels.

Karlie Kloss is not only a tall woman who wears heels, she also bikes in them.  Badass, kids.  via DailyMail

Karlie Kloss is not only a tall woman who wears heels, she also bikes in them. Badass, kids. via DailyMail

This mandate isn’t only silly, but a little sexist, too. Stemming from a whole bunch of antiquated notions including abundant height isn’t feminine, and a woman shouldn’t draw extra attention to herself, this rule is one no woman should ever follow if they don’t want to. We know plenty of women who are six feet tall and still rock killer heels with grace (ahem, Jenna Lyons, Charlize Theron, Michelle Obama, Karlie Kloss….)

( 6 )

You shop for Instagram

We hate to assume you’d buy anything simply so people know you own it, but such is the world in which we live. Are you buying that Balenciaga bag because you really, really love it, or because you want others to know you bought it? If you buy those Jimmy Choo pumps, will you be able to truly enjoy them without posting them to social media? If the answer is no, you might have some thinking to do about your shopping habits.

( 7 )

You avoid horizontal stripes like the plague.

via WorldFashionChannel

via WorldFashionChannel

Buying into the notion that all horizontal lines make you look wide is a cliché mistake. Yes, we’ll admit that a skin-tight bodycon dress emblazoned with horizontal lines might only look good on a model, but pieces that are made well and fit well—think a classic cotton Breton striped shirt tucked into dark jeans, a ladylike full skirt with horizontal stripes, or a great striped overcoat—flatters every woman.

Thanks to StyleCaster for these fabulous tips for staying chic all winter long.  Go check out the rest of their article for more fashion advice here.

Have a favorite fashion tip?  Share in the comments below!

xo, loves

SHOE PORN THURSDAY: Rochas

There is something utterly girly and adorable about pom-pons and fringe that gets me all nostalgic about my adolescent days of riding around in a colorful bicycle with hot pink, glittery pom-poms on the handlebars.  So, naturally, when I came across these Rochas Fringed Sling-Back Pumps, adorned with gold and pink fringe on the toes, and an gemstone embellished high heel, I immediately fell head over heels (pun always intended…I can’t not.).  If your inner child is also smitten for these pumps, you can feel really good about purchasing these $1,194 heels, as they are marked down from the original $1,190, so you’re technically saving $796.  Well, just look at you, being all economical and such!  

rochas shoe porn thursday

ROCHAS fringed sling back pumps, was $1,990.00 now $1,194.00

rochas heels

rochas shoe porn

What do you think of these Rochas fringed heels?  Also, if you love Shoe Porn, be sure to check out the Shoe Porn Thursday archives for more high heel love.

xo

Your Most Flattering Colors for This Fall, Revealed

Pantone’s Fall 2015 Color Palette

2015-fall-color

Pantone recently revealed their Fall 2015 color palette, which consists of earthy neutrals and bold, standalone colors that balance each other and “reflect landscape of hope, fun, fantasy, and all things natural”.

Screen Shot 2015-08-17 at 5.42.07 PM

These colors were evident in Fall 2015’s runway looks, featuring timeless pieces inspired from the free, bohemian vibes of the 60’s and 70’s, and the allure of the 1920’s.  The color palette is, for the first time ever, truly androgynous, and work with both men’s and women’s fashion.

Desert Sage, one of Pantone's Fall 2015 colors

Desert Sage, one of Pantone’s Fall 2015 colors

The top ten colors for men’s and women’s fashion for Fall 2015 are:

  • PANTONE 18-4214 Stormy Weather
  • PANTONE 16-1144 Oak Buff
  • PANTONE 17-0627 Dried Herb
  • PANTONE 18-1438 Marsala
  • PANTONE 18-4726 Biscay Bay
  • PANTONE 15-1340 Cadmium Orange
  • PANTONE 16-2215 Cashmere Rose
  • PANTONE 16-0110 Desert Sage
  • PANTONE 19-4326 Reflecting Pond
  • PANTONE 17-3628 Amethyst Orchid

Perry Ellis’ Interpretation of the color palette

 Juxtaposition of color from opposite sides of the spectrum emphasizes poise and confidence on the runway. The Fall 2015 palette is rooted in multi-faceted, androgynous colors that can be worn to portray effortless sophistication across men’s and women’s fashion; it is the first time we are seeing a truly unisex color palette. 

-Leatrice EisemanExecutive Director, Pantone Color Institute®

Rebecca Minkoff’s inspiration derived from Pantone’s color palette

What are your favorite colors from the palette?  I am a huge fan of “Dried Herb”, “Desert Sage”, “Marsala”, “Cadmium Orange”, and “Cashmere Rose”.  And basically, all of them.  

xo, lovely

Beauty Review: OZ Naturals Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin C Serum

Beauty Review: OZ Naturals  Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin C Serum

<img style=”display:none;” src=”http://www.brandbacker.com/camp.php?qargs=view_type=V%26camp_id=298%26camp_mem_id=70948″/&gt;

OZ Naturals Hyaluronic Acid Serum, $15.79, via Amazon

OZ Naturals Hyaluronic Acid Serum, $15.79, via Amazon

I absolutely love natural products, so when OZ Naturals asked me to try out their Hyaluronic Serum recently, I agreed, and wanted to share my review with readers. First off, the serum boasts that it is a clinical strength anti-aging, anti-wrinkle serum that is proven to plump skin & fill in fine lines and wrinkles.

Some of the other lovely tidbits about the serum:

-Cruelty Free: Vegan hyaluronic acid serum does not contain alcohol, parabens or sulfates and is safe for all skin types.
-Made in the USA: In a state-of-the-art FDA registered facility.
-Made with 98% Natural Ingredients & 72% Organic Ingredients.

My thoughts:

It has a lightweight feel, with no greasy residue. It dries quickly, and gave my skin a moisture boost, and worked great underneath moisturizer. It is especially great for the months where the temperatures are high, as it is light and moisturizing. Also, it contains Vitamin C, Organic Aloe, which is great for hyper pigmentation, redness, and anti-aging.

71wdarCcAOL._SL1021_

Share your thoughts in the section below!

xo

Powered by BrandBacker

The Essential Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Doing Hot Yoga

For all of you with a desire to try hot yoga, I highly recommend it.  It adds an element to yoga that helps you to stretch your muscles further, with a multitude of various other benefits.  So many people are nervous or afraid to try yoga because they are intimidated and have no idea what to expect.  However, it’s so worth taking that risk, as there are so many benefits of yoga, from physical to emotional to psychological.  In lieu of my certification to teach yoga in 2014 & my new(ish) blog Trends & Trikonasanas (oh yes, I went there…) dedicated to all things related to health & wellness, I felt inspired to try to take some worrisome aspect out of attending a yoga class by providing a simple template on what to wear (and some other good-to-know tidbits).  Oh, and if you’re in the Minnesota area, be sure to check out MNYoga Magazine– it’s free!- where in this month’s issue, I highlight tips for what to wear to and from the studio (or you can read the online version here)!

Hot Yoga
Hot yoga was one of those things that were on my perpetual bucket list, along with skydiving and traveling the world.  Finally, one day I just went.  And fell in love, completely.
aesthetics
Before you go, you should be aware of a few things:
Wear spandex.
There are a lot of positions where you are either folding forward or back, and trying to hold your baggy shirt from coming over your head isn’t fun (not to mention dangerous).  Many women choose to wear a sports bra and yoga capris or shorts.  Baggy pants will get weighed down by your sweat and add a lot of weight, not to mention will cause the same problem as with a baggy shirt.
Bring a towel.
Many studios will have mats to rent (which is convenient for your first couple times), and some may have yoga towels.  If not, you can use a regular towel, however, the dimensions are different than a yoga mat, making it much shorter and wider.  Again, it is fine to do this for your first time, but you’ll want to get a towel as you continue your yoga practice.  I swear by my Yogi Toes towel.
No shoes.
The rules that apply in daily life are totally different in yoga studios.  No shoes, no shirt, no problem (of course, this means women should wear a sports bra…).  When you enter, you’ll most likely remove your shoes in a designated place near the door.  I’ve never had any shoes taken or misplaced, as most studios lock the doors when class begins, but if you are worried, you can remove your shoes and leave them in your locker (on that note, most studios have locks you can use, but if you’re worried, bring your own to err on the cautious side).  Some people bring a pair of flip flops to walk around the lobby and locker rooms in so that they don’t have to be barefoot.  Either way, shoes and socks are basically not allowed in the yoga studio because they will make you slip.  If this totally freaks you out, you can get a pair of yoga socks, like these Gaiam ones, that have slip-resistant grips on the bottom.
Stay hydrated.
Many people make the mistake of not drinking any water until they get to class.  The key is to stay hydrated beforehand, which will make the heat much more comfortable.  In addition to drinking water, eat foods with a high water content to replenish electrolytes, especially after, such as grapes, pineapple, watermelon, and spinach.  If you’re really nervous, I recommend buying one of those big bottles of water that have electrolytes added, such as Smart Water.
Eat before, but not within 1-2 hours.
Eat lightly before to give your body energy, but give your digestive system at least an hour, preferably two, to rest after eating a large meal before moving your body in yoga.  If you need a pick me up within two hours before, choose a potassium-rich banana, an avocado, or a light and healthy smoothie.
The smell.
There’s a bunch of people within close proximity of one another sweating in a 105 degrees Ferinheight room.  It’s just one of those things that happen.  Some studios are worse (ahem, Bikram carpeted floors…) and some aren’t even noticeable.
The heat.
As mentioned, most hot yoga studios are set to 105 degrees Ferinheight with around 40% humidity.  For your first class, I would recommend taking a place closer to the back near the door or windows, as it is usually much cooler there.
The sweat.
You will sweat, some more than others- especially if you use body lotion.  Trying to fight it is futile…  You’ll only sweat more.  Nonetheless, the sweat acts as an amazing detoxifier for your skin, and makes the poses easier to get into, as there’s no friction as there tends to be with dry skin.
Workout Wear: Yoga Edition #2
Now that I’ve totally freaked you out, just remember: you’ll be totally fine.  Seriously.  In fact, you will wake up the next day a new person.  And you’ll want to come back for more.  Trust me.
Workout Wear: Yoga Edition

The Perfect Post-Yoga Outfit

Let me know how it goes for you, or if you have any questions at all!  And be sure to check out Trends & Trikonasanas for tips on all things health & wellness!
xo
 

5 Simple Ways To Increase Your Happiness This Winter

With shorter days and less sunlight, colder temperatures that make it difficult to enjoy any time outside, and the holidays over, it is easy for us to lose sight of our health and happiness.

Trends & Tribulations

Here are 5 ways to become happier this winter season:

1. Enjoy nature.

Although nothing can beat laying out on the beach in the summer, the winter is exceptionally beautiful and can offer some very unique experiences.  Try snowshoeing in a woodsy area, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, skiing, or even gather some friends and go sledding.

This could SO totally be you!!

This could SO totally be you!!

2. Break a sweat.

The cold weather makes our muscles tense up.  Moving your body releases those muscles, which feels amazing.  Plus, exercising releases endorphins, which comes down to a happier you.

3. Be social.  

While it often sounds daunting to go out in the cold weather (especially here in the frozen tundra known as Minnesota), getting together with a friend for coffee, a hockey game, or going to a spin class together is important to stay happy.  Engaging with other people can make this time of the year feel a lot less lonely.

Taking an hour out of your day to grab coffee with a girlfriend can boost your mood instantly.

Taking an hour out of your day to grab coffee with a girlfriend can boost your mood instantly.

4. Eat right.  

Enjoy the food you eat, and make healthy choices that you will feel good about after you have eaten.  Everything in moderation…including moderation.

5. Find silence.

Sometimes all we really need this time of the year is a little quiet time to reflect.  Whether it’s through meditation or simply sitting in silence while working or driving, taking a break from the hustle and bustle of life can do wonders.

Trends & Tribulations

What are some things that make you happy throughout the winter season?