Fake A Cute And Fast Beach Look

I'm in Florida this week for spring break and to be honest, the last thing I want to do is work.  Really, who wants to do anything on vacation, especially when you are on a gorgeous beach!  I just want to relax, take walks, let the kids run a muck and have some cocktails.  I get into such a lazy mood that I don't even want to put make-up on....what?!!  Did I just say that out loud?  So here's a little secret to faking it like you're making it... (I'm going to make you scroll down at all the pics before I share my tips.)

Tips for a Fast, Cute Beach Look (beach not included)

#1  The Essential Maxi Dress 
Choose fun, bright colors.  Can be strapless, tank, halter top...whatever you like.

#2  Fedora Hat
You don't have to do your hair.  Just brush and pop the hat on.

#3  Sunglasses 
Skip the eye make-up and let those shades hide your secret.

#4  Lipgloss
Looks like you have full-blown make-up on when all you did was color your lips.

And that's it.  Now all you need is the beach!  

xo,

Deb

Preparing For Easter...Oh And The Outfit

Don't be deceived by this photo!

Easter, ugh.  I'm never organized for this holiday or the traditions that go with it.  I leave everything to the last minute so the last thing I think about is my outfit.  I'd like to think of myself as a pretty good mom but with Easter activities I fail.  

Every year I proclaim that I will not partake in coloring Easter eggs and every year my husband says, "What?  But we have to!"  Really?  We haaaave to?  Why, is the Easter police going to arrest us?  Will we go to hell if we don't do it?  If you say it's for the kids, well I don't think it's that enjoyable for them.  It's the dumbest tradition and someone always ends up crying.  Yes, please sign me up!  I would love to color eggs to see the kids fight over egg possession, who broke what egg and hogging the dyes.  The stupid dye...everywhere!  All over the table, floor, fingers, clothes, dogs.  Seriously, I'd rather go through child birth.  And let's not forget the "creativity".  Half the eggs are either brown because rainbow eggs are attempted or words like "poop" or "stupid head" are written on them... oh how perfect as a centerpiece!  Martha Stewart would be so proud.  We do all this so the ugly eggs can rot all over the house or be hidden in the refrigerator.  I suspect some vengeful grandmother came up with this actvity so she can laugh and laugh and laugh at the results.  I can't wait to be a grandma!

Easter egg hunts are ok; it's the preparation that blows.  Of course I do this the night before.  I buy all the crappiest candy that is picked over and the plastic eggs that go with them.  For some reason, my husband and I wait until about midnight before we decide to assemble them (we are really smart).  Maybe it's because I come home from buying all the crap and then I decide to have a glass of wine or two or three.  Whatever the case, it's midnight and we will be putting together eggs.  Now add two dogs and a cat to this scenario.  It's an egg party for them.  Swatting at the eggs, fighting over the eggs... it's a frickin' disaster.  This results in eggs hidden so well that the kids themselves can't find them.  Mom Fail #2. 

So as you can see when it comes down to planning an outfit, it kind of goes out the window.  I'm sure I'm not alone... or am I? 

This year I plan on wearing this white sleeveless dress with a statement necklace and pale pink trench coat.  By wearing an old dress, I'm making it less stressful on myself while still looking nice.  You can do the same.  Take a look in your own closet for whites, pastels or florals.  Even if you want to wear pants, add that sparkly necklace and you will be ready for an Easter look.  Just be sure to have your house all decked out like Crate & Barrel- just kidding!  

Ready for Mom Fail #3?  I  planned a vacation to Florida the week before Easter, returning home one day before the bunny comes.  Will I prepare this week?  Probably not, but at least I know what I'm wearing.  Wish me luck!  Oh crap, what are the kids going to wear?

xo,

Deb

Photography by G.Lynn Photo

What Deb Wore

Old Navy Eyelet Dress- old (similar) |  Banana Republic Trench Coat (similar) |  Baublebar Necklace

Wear Fringe Like A Fashionista

This spring's latest craze is FRINGE!  Yes, fringe, and I couldn't be more excited!  Adding texture and interest, it creates a variety of looks to fit your personality including boho, flashy, sexy, country or something all of your own.  Fringe is full of possibilities, so I hope you ChaChas consider this fun trend. 

My take on fringe is with a black kimono.  I kept it simple with a gray top, distressed faded jeans, kitten heels and a long necklace.  I can't wait to wear it with a dress.  Don't be intimidated by this trend!  It is so versatile and for women of all ages.

ChaCha Shopping Tip:  When buying a trendy item, make it an inexpensive purchase.  Invest your money with classic items that will be worn for years to come.

There are many ways to introduce fringe into your spring wardrobe.  You can easily achieve this look with tops, jackets or skirts.  For just a touch of fringe, try it with accessories such as purses, shoes and jewelry.  Look what I found just walking around Nordstrom...

Milly Fringe Handbags

Fringe, leather bucket handbags... get into my closet!  I am a sucker for purses and I can't believe I didn't cave.  I just love them.  Nordstrom, feel free to surprise me with one of these beauties (I blog enough about you!!).

Chloe Espadrilles for a casual fringe look

These espadrilles mix style with comfort, but don't stop at casual wear.  How about some fringe on heels or ankle boots?  Go for a ChaCha look or a little bit of country.

Don't forget the jewelry!  Check out these pieces that will bring elegance to your style.

Now that you know about the fringe trend, I guarantee you will see it everywhere from Macy's to Target.  Still not sure how to wear it?  Let ChaCha Flare help you pull off this spring look, and make your personal styling appointment today!  Go to ChaCha Flare Styling Services to get started.

How will YOU fringe your look, fashionistas? 

xo,

Deb

Photography by G.Lynn Photo

What Deb Wore

FRINGE KIMONO - TJ MAXX |  GRAY TOP - NORDSTROM RACK | JOLT STRAIGHT JEANS | NECKLACE - LIA SOPHIA | BANDOLINO KITTEN HEELS

**Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission if you purchase through the link. It doesn't affect your purchase price, it just puts a little money in my pocket. :)

Optimize Your Spring Look With Coral

Just hangin' out in my coral jeans...

Spring is here!  Not technically, but the snow has melted in Chicago so it's spring to me.  That means it's time to wear less black and bring out the color!  Coral is my favorite color to wear.  It screams spring, adds a cheery pop of hue and looks great on everybody.  Hold on, are you that girl that says you DON'T look good in coral?  That's crazy talk!  Trust me, YOU look good in coral.  If you have light skin, it will brighten you up.  If you have dark skin, it will complement your warm tones.  Even you redheads can wear coral!  Plus, it goes with a lot...white, gray, blue, green, pink, more coral and black (but not too much black).  Now that I think about it, coral may possibly work with all colors!  That means endless options- woo hoo!

I have tons of coral tops but this is my first pair of coral pants and I just love them!  I'm wearing my corals with a simple, white t-shirt, denim jacket and nude heels.  I added a thin leopard belt for that "yay" factor.  My outfit needed some kind of pattern, and the belt did just that.  You always need that one ChaCha item whether it's an interesting top, bold jewelry, fun shoes or a belt!  Don't ever underestimate the power of the belt.

ChaCha fashion tip:  Every woman should own a pair of nude heels.  It can be worn with jeans, leggings, skirts and dresses.  Not only does it go with everything and every color, but it also gives your legs length!  And that's a good thing for a girl like me who has short legs ;)

Sold on coral?  How will you optimize your spring look?  Share your favorite color for spring here on the blog, facebook, twitter or instagram- I'm everywhere, y'all!

xo,

Deb

Photography by G.Lynn Photo 

What Deb Wore

Silver Denim Jacket | J. Crew Vintage Tee | Jolt Ankle Biters | J. Crew Leopard Skinny Belt | Michael Kors Gold Chain

How To Wear Leggings And Get It Right!

Check out the DOs and DON'Ts on how to wear leggings!  Too many times I see women wearing leggings the wrong way, so I created a YouTube video to show you how it's done.  There are five fabulous ways to wear leggings so watch all the way to the end :)

Enough with the blah, blah, blah!  Just watch and see what I am talking about.  Bottom line.... Leggings are NOT pants!

Enjoy!




xo,

Deb 

Swap Party With Sisters Marie

Last Saturday I attended a #SwapInTheBurbs party hosted by lifestyle bloggers, Sisters Marie.  What's a swap party?  It's a gathering of wonderful women, like yourselves, who bring clothing items, shoes, jewelry and accessories that they no longer want/need and swap it for other items of equal price.  It's like shopping without spending a dime!  The ladies of Sisters Marie, Kaitlyn and Lisa, have made a business out of this concept.  If you shop too much or want "new" clothes without blowing through your wallet, check out bistm (Because I Shop Too Much) and btgtf (Because They Grow Too Fast) for opportunities to swap online.

My new fellow blogger friends hosted their party in Downers Grove and you will never guess where?!  The house my parents owned for 21 years!!  What are the odds?  It truly was a sign for me to go to this event.   Needless to say, it was very surreal to return "home".   

So back to the swap party.  I have to say, these ladies are much more apt to parting with their closet because I definitely am not.  I was surrounded by beautiful clothes, shoes, shoes, shoes and a plethora of jewelry!  With my little black dress in tow, I decided to practice what I preach to all you ChaChas and finally say goodbye to it.  Here's my secret: The dress was bought 2 years ago and there were STILL TAGS ON it!!  Shame on me!  Remember "10 Signs You Need A Wardrobe Overhaul"?  I swear, I am/was only guilty of #7!  It is a super cute and sexy dress but I never wore it.  I swapped with Lisa for a blingy statement necklace and couldn't be happier.  It's a win-win! 

And how about April and Kaitlyn's swap?  A beautiful, cobalt blue jumpsuit for a bright, yellow-green cross purse... Both are perfect for spring.  April beat me to that "I so want" jumpsuit, but that is what I get for talking too much!  It's all good, I love my necklace.

Ready to swap?  Last fall, I hosted an exclusive ChaCha Flare Swap It, Dump It, Keep It Party.  This April, I will be opening the invitation to you all, so keep your eyes open for details.  A little bit of a ChaCha twist with my party... Guests will bring clothing items, shoes, jewelry and accessories to swap or perhaps keep or dump.   Using my styling expertise, I will help you make that decision.  Sometimes what looks awful on you, could be surprisingly flattering on someone else, or it simply looks terrible on everyone!  Let me be the judge. 

Let's swap soon.  Be sure to check out Kaitlyn rockin' her flats on my old stomping grounds!

xo,

Deb 

What To Wear On St. Patrick's Day

MICHAEL KORS GOLD CHAIN | JEANS- MAURICES | VINCE CAMUTO PUMPS | STELLA STARR RUFFLE TRENCH COAT

Kiss me, I'm not Irish!  You would think I were an Irish girl rather than a Brazilian with my light skin and blue eyes, right?  Whether you are Irish or not, it's always fun to partake in the St. Patrick's Day celebrations and of course, wear green.  I have nothing stylish in the traditional kelly green so I improvised with teal green.  Hey, green is green! 

With snow still in site and Oak Brook Mall's water fountain in full blast (what?!!!), I wore a tank loosely tucked into my dark, straight jeans.  Like a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, nothing looks better than a gold chain necklace against green.  For my interest factor, I included two items: 1) my favorite ruffled trench coat and 2) my daring, leopard  Vince Camuto peep toe heels. 

ChaCha Tidbit:  Green and yellow (or gold) are right next to each other on the color wheel so it creates color harmony which is very pleasing to the eye.  The same harmony is present in the blue from my jeans and green top.  Oooo, lots of color harmony!  I know this crap because I majored in art my first year in college; nice to know that I got something out of freshman year! 

Pretty fancy for St. Patty's Day, eh?  One week until the Irish holiday but only 3 days until the parades, eh hem... parties begin.  This Saturday, I will be going to a neighborhood party with lots of beer and shenanigans, so should I wear this outfit?  Maybe I need this look below?  I'm taking votes...what would you wear??  Comment on the blog, facebook, twitter or instagram!  Fancy look or fun look?

Let me hear from you, ChaChas!  Results will be posted on Saturday.

Photography by G.Lynn Photo

Sláinte!

Deb

Get Custom-Made Clothing Like A Celebrity!

I am super excited to share this with you, ChaChas!  I just discovered a hidden gem....eShakti!  They design, you customize.  Women like US can get custom-made clothing at very reasonable prices!  That's right, clothes made just for you and your beautiful, unique body.  Whether you are petite, tall, plus size or have a disproportional body shape, eShakti can create the perfect clothing item tailored for you.

With so many fabulous styles and colors to choose from, I had a hard time choosing what I wanted.  When I saw this A-line dress in a chevron pattern, I knew it would be the perfect spring dress!  I love everything about it... the complementary colors, the flattering fit and the fact that it just makes me happy!  Since I am so small on top, I sometimes have the issue of dresses being too big in the chest area.  Problem solved!  Having the option to customize, I was able to get a dress that fits me perfectly.  Not only can you customize your size, but also the dress length and sleeve type.  Want to get rid of the pockets?  Done.  There isn't anything eShakti hasn't thought of.  

Ready to get something specially made for you?  Grab a measuring tape and get started!  Check out eShakti.com for sweaters, jackets, skirts, dresses, pants and jumpsuits... oh my!  And because you are a special ChaCha follower, I have an exclusive offer to share with you :)  Use promotional code "chachaflare" and receive 10% off your order!  (Valid 3/4/15-4/4/15 on full priced items.)

eShakti.com

Feel special like a celebrity and get the perfect fit made just for you!  

Happy Styling,

Deb

How To Wear Flares

Flares are back, ChaChas!  Dust them off from your closet or buy a pair because they are the latest trend for spring.  I created a 70s chic look without looking like a disco disaster.  You can too!  I'm sporting my old flares with a handmade laced-collar blouse from Brazil, a blingy necklace to add interest and chunky clogs. 

Not sure how you can wear them?  The looks are endless...Pair with a fitting shirt, blazer or jacket that ends at the hip bone or go longer with a looser top (avoiding anything that bells out).  I picture a striking halter top for all you small-chested women.  Or keep it simple with a white tee and bias cut blazer.  Just be sure to wear it with heels... platforms, wedges, chunky heels or even high sneakers.  Flares need room for flow, so you absolutely have to wear them with shoes that give you height.  The only exception is if you have very, very, very long, thin legs and your body is also very, very, very long and thin.  Only then will flares work with sandals or flats.  By the way, if that is you, I hate you.  Just kidding.  No I'm not.

Still not sold on the flares look?  That's ok.  Just because it's a trend, doesn't mean you should wear it.  If you try on every pair and you're still not feeling it, then forget it!  You want to look good and feel good, so stick with what works for YOU!  But I do encourage you to try.

Flares are like snowflakes, not all are the same.  There are bell-bottoms, bootcut, wide leg and palazzo.  Pick the kind that work for your body type so that your look is proportional.

So go get your flares on!  Need help finding your look?  Go to my Styling Services page to get started today.

xoxo,

Deb