Nickel and Dime Prices with the Pizazz of Luxury: Gifts that won't rob you blind:)

Christmas commercials here, decorations there and we're holly and jolly; giving little thought to the after effects on our pockets. I want to give you a few gift suggestions that might soften the damage.

1. Think of  things you always hear your friend complaining about. Sometimes the least expensive items we really want are overlooked because necessities must be purchased first. Manicures, pedicures, car washes(a package) are great gift certificates, wine glasses,  cooking knives, a warm cute kit( knee or thigh high socks and a cutesy fitted tee packed in a simple throw with a bow) are great inexpensive ideas that show you were listening.  :)

2. Marshall's, Loehmann's and Stein Mart are my favorite places.  Around the holiday season they have wonderful trinkets around the cashier...check them out and make a gift bag.  Last year a few of my friends received a cutesy mug, with some flavored hot chocolate, chocolate stirring candies a miniature bottle of Baileys all packed inside the mug and finished with wrapping paper and a bow.  Everything except for the Bailey's came from Marshall's, I made five gifts and spent $30.  I have friends still asking about that delicious hot chocolate.




3. Having a party and you want your guest to leave with a little something something?  Classic is always great, last year each of the ladies at my holiday party received faux pearl earrings, THEY LOVED THEM and the guys.... hilarious, they got little "Nut Dream" chocolates.  I promise that was the name of the candy and a hit, the guys couldn't stop talking about it.  Guess what...Marshall's too, check out the discount stores they're filled with treasures.

4.  If money is super tight get in the kitchen, every year for Easter my Mother would have me in the kitchen making my own basket, sugar egg, chocolate molds, melting chocolate. So much fun!!!!! I didn't realize until just now (light bulb just went off and getting teary eyed over the memory) she was saving money. As a single parent she didn't want me to miss the experience so she figured out how to make the most out of a tight spot. WOW! :) Christmas molds are super cheap and the chocolates taste so good.

5.  Last year my cousin in college wanted to get her honey bunny a gift, she did the cutest thing...I might use her idea this year, lol! She created a booklet of coupons offering a massage, to clean up his house/apt, a home pedicure/manicure and other things:)...be creative.





Checkout www.floemporium.com free shipping until 1/1/2012.

Stay Fab!

Nothing to Wear in a Closet Full of Everything

Either its morning and you are rushing to work or an evening out that began 20 minutes ago but you're still at home clueless and nude trying to figure things out.  In both scenarios the common factor is time, most often the hustle and bustle of life has created a think on your feet approach to everything (figure it out and fast). I love when my friends call " Girl, he's on his way what should I wear" not so much fun for them so today I'm giving you three tips that will have you ready and stress free.

1. Organize and Realize what's Inside, I can't tell you how many times I've heard "OMGoodness I forgot all about this".  Beautiful clothes mixed in the chaos called the closet, just collecting dust.  When organizing I prefer a color/garment layout, this just means all of your slacks are hung together from the darkest to the lightest shade; continue the same pattern with dresses, tops and skirts. Removing the clutter will allow most of us to see how much we really have or realize the key components missing in our wardrobe. An organized closet can add up to 15 minutes to your rest time, quality time and/or party time, think about how great it would be...no stress, just get dressed.

2. Play dress up, I know time is of the essence but those free moments when every one in your home is asleep and you have a minute of quiet time have fun in your closet to make your exit out the house smooth as possible. Instead of wondering how an outfit looks, you'll already know and eliminate the frustration of the unknown ( I'm sure we've all been there before...lol).
3. Start with the Essentials, I can't say it enough and you're probably tired of hearing it and accomplished closet must start with the fundamentals. A gorgeous Blouse, missing the pencil skirt...wonderful shoe(sitting for months now) because your closet is missing those interchangeable garments that create a template for all those unique and to die for pieces. Make sense??? Go back to the title closet full of everything; wonderful belts, shirts, sweaters, boots but because your closet is missing the Five for Fall (checkout the blog created on 10/11/11) those HOT garments aren't being worn to their full potential.

Have wonderful week and continue to be FAB inside and out:)

www.floemporium.com...free shipping until the holidays (shhhhh, that's our little secret...lol).

Five for Fall

Yes, its mid-October already and we've discussed transitioning our closet for fall but there are a few essential pieces that will help you stay fresh, fly and fabulous the entire season.

1. A Tailored Blazer, it can be used as outerwear and interchangeable with slacks/jeans, a dress, skirt and used as a top/blouse (just the blazer) for evening attire.

2. A great pair of jeans with a little stretch not too much because you want them to keep their shape (dark preferably because they're easier to transition from day to night- light jeans most times are more casual)

3. A white button down blouse...a crisp new one every fall, this blouse is sexy classy. Throw it on for day or night.

4. A pencil dress(neutral color) - don't be afraid of it, throw on some spanx, the perfect jewelry, blazer optional and go.

5. A classic pump - this shoe is a necessity whichever heel height you prefer because it lengthens the leg and goes with everything.

Interchange these 5 pieces with scarfs (color please:)), jewelry and handbags or a clutch.

Any questions??? Please ask, I enjoy discussing and sharing tips with you:)

Oh! :) Don't forget to check out www.floemporium.com for all your accessories and essentials.

The Perfect Tee

Many times we enter a big box store looking for anything but a tee, this is an essential.  Do you ever have those days and you say..."shoot I need a basic fitted tee"??? The perfect long sleeve tee is essential in the fall and winter, layer it under a blazer, sweater, cropped jacket or shrug. Basic elements such as the perfect tee are the finishing touch to your wardrobe.  I'm gonna give you a few tips on the perfect tee; body type, material and cut are few important components to remember in selecting your tees. (if you aren't familiar with your body type check out my older post they discuss all body shapes).

A Crew Neck Tee is usually what comes to mind when we think about fitted t-shirts. Crew neck tees are excellent for accentuating the bust, because there isn't any exposed skin and the shirt is slim fitting the eyes tend to land directly on the boobs. Whatever size chest you have, when wearing a crew neck tee your brassiere MUST BE ON POINT! Undergarments are always important but a crew neck tee will point out a non-supportive bra...not a good look. I saw young lady the other day with a horrible bra and a crew neck tee, the t-shirt looked extremely small as if it was choking her.  That leads me to my next point, crew neck tees need to be the right size...try it on.  Because everything is covered a too small crew neck will show every imperfection (rolls, smashed boobs, sagging boobs, you name it)...remember we're trying to accentuate the positive.

A Scoop Fitted Tee, is one of my favorites. There is a little exposed skin to show what some men say is the sexiest part of a woman's body, her decolletage. You have a lot of playing room with this tee and numerous ways to implement the shirt into your daily attire. I used the term playing room because you can wear the scoop tee to work with a suit, a statement necklace or running your errands, I usually throw my scoop tees on with some leggings and a blazer/jacket and I'm out the door(I buy extended length tees just to cover the dairy aire:)). Lastly, out on the town...I've been caught waiting to last minute to get dressed quite a few times; pair this tee with some skinnies or trousers(wider at the bottom and fitting correctly at the waist), pull out the sexiest pumps, grab your clutch and accessories...grab your boo and say I'm ready, sorry I took so long. :)

V-Neck Fitted Tees, have a funny relationship with me. Always one of my favorites but depending on the material it could go bad. My preference with the v-neck is 95% cotton and 5% spandex because it holds its shape the entire time your wearing it. 100% cotton tees lose the shape and this is extremely bad with a v-neck tee because shape is crucial with this tee. If a v-neck tee has no shape it creates a larger waist, the objective of the tee is to accentuate your cleavage...so now you have accentuated breast and the illusion of a larger midsection...I'll pass.

The Boat Neck Tee is tricky and can sometimes make your shoulders look broad and breast will appear large, just off the cut alone. Personally...I don't buy this shirt, my chest is on the larger side (broad shoulders and boobs don't go well together). If you must wear a boat neck tee balance the look of the broad shoulder with a wider bottom (jean, trouser), remember to always create balance.






Check out www.floemporium.com!!! Unique jewelry and essentials guaranteed to turn heads:)

The Leaves are Changing Colors...Should My Closet?

I woke up this morning in a complete tizzy...lol! Yes, I love all seasons but I had few summer pieces I didn't get a chance to rock.  Some would say "oh well...maybe next summer" and I say this is transition time.  Some of your summer pieces can transition nicely and become part of your Autumn wardrobe.

This tank dress is the perfect example, yes it was super cute this summer.  Pull that dress out depending on temp throw on some tights and a pump (tights and pumps need to be the same color/color family to lengthen the leg), a blazer, a cropped sweater, cardigan or denim jacket...depending on the occasion and accessorize however you choose; chunky necklace/small earrings or large earrings and a cocktail ring. You're set, take a look in your closet and pull those dresses to the front, because you're not done with them. LOL!

White...labor day has passed and some have removed white till next summer. I say pull your white to the front...whoever came up with that rule in the first place.  White can be tricky in the fall but if your confidence is on point you're there (its easy to locate a women who doesn't feel good in her outfit).  I'm gonna give a few tips to top off the confidence that's already turning heads. Pairing whites in the fall is a tab bit different than the summer.  Partnering colors should be brown, tan/camel, burnt orange, metallic and denim; I didn't say black because its expected...we've got to think out the box.

Finally, dressing should always, always, always look effortless and attractive. I have a uniform, not really a work uniform but a look I rock everyday while ripping and running. It's super sexy, functional, transitions into all seasons, easy to take off (I'm talking about in fitting rooms...lol. Y'all minds are in the gutter...smh). Leggings, a long cami, depending on temp my denim jacket/sweater/blazer/scarf and boots or ballerina flats with my silver hoop earrings. LOVE IT!!! I'll take a pic and share with you in the next blog. My little uniform has also transitioned from day to night most times with just the change of my accessories.

FLO with Style is very important to me because I notice soooooooo many women on a daily basis not taking a few extra seconds to look nice.... I'm telling you it will change your mood. I said all that to say, if you have a question don't hesitate asking... I LOVE fashion and I want all women to embrace the beauty inside and out.

FYI - the next few days you'll receive more post from me because I have so many things to discuss with you...the perfect tee, 5 important pieces for winter and game night cute.

Check out www.floemporium.com for all your accessories and essentials.

CIAO:)

Date Night: Are You Fashionably Ready???

As the scheduled meet time quickly approaches, you wonder what would be the perfect look.  It's right in your closet, let me help you find it. At first sight his eyes should say a thousands words only you two can comprehend. We know the outfit isn't what makes the connection, but remember they are visual creatures. Why not give him something great to look at:)
Set the Mood:
1. Accentuate the Positive, this is extremely important, if you have great legs wear a dress.  Why cover up your best feature, he'll notice and hopefully compliment you. A dress is the simplest outfit, you don't have to match anything up, just throw it on with a few accessories and go.
2. Be Comfortable, nothing is worst than constantly pulling your dress down or adjusting your blouse.
3. Undergarments is a Must, since we're accentuating the positive why not tuck in the negative. LOL! (check out October 27, 2010 post discussing the perfect undergarments)

What to Wear
If you have the essentials, you're all set (post from November 1, 2010).  Pull out the simple fitted dress and throw on a tailored to fit you perfectly blazer and your ready.  A chunky necklace or some fabulous earrings will set the look off!
FYI - some form of outerwear (blazer, sweater, cute jacket) is always perfect just in case it's cool.

If you don't have the essentials, don't worry I got you covered. It's time to dig out your favorite sundress, no babydoll fit please.  Quick note the baby doll dress doesn't hide your stomach, it only makes it look longer.  Throw them away!! Sorry, I got sidetracked...spice up your sundress with some different accessories and shoes. One thing about your favorite sundress, you know how you feel when you wear it, no surprises.

I definitely don't recommend a new outfit for a first date because you haven't given it the test run. Does it ride up, is it comfortable, are the straps going to stay in place. Again, it is very important to be fabulous and comfortable on your first arranged encounter. There shouldn't be any fashion factors distracting you from paying close attention to his lips when he speaks :)

Ladies, if you noticed I didn't mention jeans, they are expected. Do the unexpected and set yourself apart from the rest.

Oh! Don't hesitate to ask questions, I enjoy helping out because we all should be fashion fabulous!

Need new accessories? Check out www.floemporium.com

Style From the Inside First

I LOVE fashion but style is the entire package, so I thought it was important to discuss a couple components that encompass a stylish woman. I contacted my favorite esthetician, Touch of Monet - tishamonet@aol.com and she listed 5 tips to achieve a flawless look
1.Black doesn't crack but it does burn, you must wear sun protectant. The ingredients should include UVA and UVB protection, if you don't have those two you don't have protection from damaging your skin.
2. If you are gonna be outside all day LEAVE the FOUNDATION alone, because nothing will keep it in place if you've been sweating all day. Use a little press powder and bronzer for a finished look.
3. Lips need Protection just as well as the skin. Look for lipsticks, chap sticks and glosses that have SPF.  Also you can put a little sunscreen or lip chap with SPF on your lips before applying your gloss / lipstick.
4. Hydrate. Touch of Monet says take a challenge for a week, only drink water and you'll see the difference. Your skin will have more of a glow.
5. 4 things you must do daily to have healthy vibrant skin. Cleanse, Tone, Moisturize and Protect


I also want to discuss an issue I feel very strong about and have ran into a lot lately, confidence. As much as I talk about fashion, confidence is THE MOST attractive quality anyone can have.  Ladies, if you don't think you're beautiful no one else will.  We all have flaws, stop being sorry Susie and love your body whichever way it's shaped.  I'm not a therapist, but here's 5 tips to begin the process of LOVING yourself:
1. Start exercising, I'm not saying this because you need to lose weight but exercise releases endorphins. Endorphins make you feel better.
2. Cry. As long as you hold onto build up frustration it continues to build. LET IT OUT!!!! When you have a private moment, it's okay to cry or hit something no one is watching. I promise you'll feel better.
3. Meditation or Yoga.  I have a quick funny story, my ex always made sure I stayed in yoga, LOL! Yoga changes your entire mind state, when practiced consistently. Meditation and yoga gets you to a point where nothing can effect you, seriously. My Motto: It always works out.
4. Spiritual Grounding. For me it's church every Sunday, unless I had an extremely rough night (hey, I'm human :)). For others it's the Mosque, the Hall, whatever you choose believing in something higher than yourself is the faith to know there is no need to worry. My Motto (again): It always works out.
5. Have Sex (it's a form of exercise, lol), not with random Ron find someone you trust and feel comfortable around(use protection too). Sex is an instant mood lifter. 

Okay so I didn't talk about fashion but I felt it necessary to take a slight detour, I want you all to love yourself. However fabulous the clothes are, they mean nothing if you don't feel good in them.

Check out www.floemporium.com, it's a few new pieces I know you will love.

Peace :)

A Chaneé or a Nay: Summer Fun with Style

Thanks for reading. I appreciate those who stopped me this weekend and told me how much you enjoy reading the blog, please comment and join.  The last few days have been filled with interesting views. So with the help of some wonderful people in my life, we came up with A Chaneé or A Nay.  For those that don't know I'm Chaneé and whenever you see this title it will detail what's hot and what needs some work.

A Nay - Black doesn't go with Everything
Okay, I know I'm gonna catch megaslack for this one - but black doesn't go with everything. And I'm going to give detailed information to explain this comment. Black can sometimes be to harsh and distract from the entire look. You must always consider what black is paired with, lighter colors look better with lighter neutrals.  A great example would be a yellow dress (there isn't any black in the dress and none of your accessories are black), why choose a black shoe? The contrast is too tremendous, choose a complimenting neutral - like a tan or a metallic. Let me make this simple, you want your look to FLO from the top of your head to your toes. Let's not forget neutrals are metallics, white, browns and tans (and some colors can be neutrals but we'll talk about that down the road :)).

Clean, elegant and simple

A Chaneé - The Purse

www.lulus.com

www.lulus.com

This weekend I saw plenty of women downsizing and carrying unique small messenger bags, LOVED IT!!!! Most were an amazing compliment to the outfit and didn't interrupt your fun! A small cute purse is an asset to your summer wardrobe, especially for the outdoor events.

Check out www.floemporium.com for your accessories and essentials!

Stay Fab!!!!

5 Ways to Ensure the Perfect Summer Look.

After a wonderful weekend and viewing all the "sites", I felt the need to give some summer advice. Just because it's for sale doesn't mean it's meant for everyone to purchase. Please remember, always a lady FIRST.

Maxi Me?
1.  I'm must reiterate, please dress for your body type (read October 29th post). The Maxi dress looks fabulous in the department store but it isn't made for the thick hourglass silhouette. Why? Most Maxi Dresses are made without a waist, they are usually a rectangular silhouette, or sometimes an umpire fit.  Therefore if you are extremely curvy it hides your greatest asset (your small waist) and makes you look larger.  The Maxi is PERFECT for the rectangular body type (especially the taller diva) because the dress flows with your shape.  Hiding the belly, which can sometimes be a problem with the rectangular body type and creating the allusion of a long and lean fashionista. 

Wedge, Heel or Flat? I'm still fab...

2. This summer I've seen so many disasters with the stilettos in the grass, this is a complete no. In the grass you can't get your sexy strut on because your heel is sinking in the grass and when you finally come out of the grass your hot heel is a disaster with grass and mud everywhere. Solution. I've been told I'm a little shorter than most so I do like a higher shoe at all times, my solution is the wedge. It offers the flat sole, gives great height and most times it's comfortable. Ladies, it you must wear a flip flop - get one with jewels, a metallic or even a unique style (the fellas are checking out our feet). One last thought on the shoe tip, flats, wedges can all be sexy just be sure to put a flattering polish on your toe nails.

www.gojane.com

 

 

If you need to Pull in the Middle, Reconsider.
3. Recently I was in the fitting room with a nice young lady trying on shorts that honestly fit like a bloomer.  She looked at me and before she could ask, I told her no - very politely I might add. There isn't much to stay, it isn't appealing and sure isn't comfortable to constantly pull your shorts down from in between your thighs. Solution. Get a larger size or a longer short.

Strapless with Straps, how so?
4. I'm not sure which fashion guru sent out the memo that bra straps and a strapless dress is the hottest look of the season. I must disagree, I can assure you, having a larger chest myself there is a strapless bra for everyone. Go buy it, it might be a small investment but it's worth it. Check out this store:  http://myintimacy.com/, they always hook me up.



 Wifebeater for everyone!!!!

Create your own Maxi Dress

5. If your budget doesn't permit shopping for the summer, buy a pack of wife beaters (tank tops for those who don't know). Take your old skirts, shorts, fab necklaces and earrings and recreate your wardrobe.  Remember last seasons trend? All the skirts with the big elastic waist band, pull those skirts out and rock 'em with your wife beater, a chunky necklace and you're ready to be the cutest thing at the BBQ. Or the bohemian skirts, perfect with a long necklace or a belt (not both), and fitted wife beater (I still have mine from college, no joke). 

Check out my website, if your in need of some affordable accessories and essentials: www.floemporium.com

Enjoy the rest of summer and stay FABULOUS!!!!!

Spring into SPRING: 5 tips to Spice up the wardrobe on a budget.

March is here and I can't help but to get excited.  One of my friends was over yesterday, I had my spring colorful jackets out, she just started making fun of me. LOL!  Winter was great and I think we all got great wear out of our winter garments, I'm just ready to show a little skin (sorry I'm just being real).  So in my frantic state, I picked up a few pieces you might want to purchase as well.





1. Avon, yes I said Avon has this dress $16.99, you can wear it 7 different ways.  I had to grab it because I have one similar that went with my body at is largest and smallest, if you feel me. LOL! Always looked great and super sexy.  Check it out. Avon Website








2.So you purchased your white blouse for fall/winter, now you need one for the summer.  I found this one, I think it'll look great with your lightweight jeans, skirts, daisy dukes or shorts.
White and Versatile





3. Tees are essential! Have you ever looked in your closet and just wished you had a few nice tees to throw on under a blazer/jacket, pair with some trousers or wear with a romper. As ladies we have a tendency to look over the basics when we shop, but the basics are important. Just think about that casual date or hanging with the girls throw on that colorful tee with some jeans and a hot belt - GIRL you good to go!V - Neck Tee andScoop Neck Tee (comes in crew also)

Stud Earrings

4. A few nice accessories, change your total look.  To start, purchase a silver hoop earring (affordable silver hoops won't tarnish compared to cheap gold ones) and some stud earrings.  FYI - this is also a great gift for girlfriends and family affordable and an essential, don't have to worry about size.  I'm actually throwing a pair in my beauty bags for my next event :)

 5. I love a HOT neutral pump, I love grays, tans and caramels they aren't too harsh.  Compare a red dress with black pumps to a neutral pump, it softens the look, lengthens the leg, and brings the eye back up too you.Sexy and Sophisticated Neutral Pump

I just want to end by saying it's okay to splurge, but don't let your splurge be a trendy item. The rule is, it has to be a classic that I can wear now, 10 years from today AND pass it out to my daughter.  Ya feel me? 

Inspired.