Spring Trends: My Top Picks

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With the onset of Spring, I'm looking forward to incorporating all things fresh and pretty into my wardrobe. There are so many fun spring trends that I'm loving lately! Here's a few of my top picks!

1. Blue & White: Is there anything lovelier than this classic combination? My go-to outfit lately has been any pairing of pieces in this color palette. Think blue and white stripe tops with white pants, delicate blue florals, navy and white for a nautical-inspired look, or blue embroidery on breezy white pieces that evoke a vacation vibe.
2. Pastels: There's something so fresh about pastels. I recently purchased a pair of sneakers (linked above) in pale blue (they also come in a beautiful blush shade!), and I've been partial to soft pink and blue stripe button down tops with pearl embellished or neutral accessories. These shades pair so well with denim and add a feminine touch.
3. Ruffles: Ruffles are the new statement sleeve. They add interest and a bit of sophistication to an otherwise basic piece. Instantly elevate your look with a ruffled top, skirt, or dress.
4. Floral Prints: Florals are basically a spring staple that somehow manages to never get old. I am a big fan of a silky blouse in delicate floral prints and love to pair them with a white pant, skinny fit denim, or high waisted shorts. This is a classic look that's always on trend.
5. Statement Earrings: There are so many fun versions out there this season! I picked up a pair of pretty teal tassel earrings and look forward to wearing them with much of my spring wardrobe.

What trends are you loving this Spring?

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Applause

I was flipping through radio stations the other day, and the lyrics of a Lady Gaga song got me thinking. She has a song Applause that is something along the lines of,

"I live for the applause, applause, applause

I live for the applause-plause

Live for the applause-plause

Live for the way that you cheer and scream for me

The applause, applause, applause"

What a picture of the way we tend to live our lives...always seeking approval, always wanting acceptance and applause from others to validate our work/self/existence. How many times have you found yourself doing something that you know would get other people to notice or to admire you? Even the way our social media apps are set up condition us to feel good when someone "likes" your status or photo. I know I've found myself thinking like that from time to time, and while it's ok to be excited when others compliment or applaud you, let's not fall into the trap of their applause dictating how we live our lives. The fact of the matter is that trends come and go, what's admired for awhile, soon becomes passe or obsolete. Live your life in such a way that is not centered around acceptance from others, but rather one that is in alignment with how God calls us to live. 

Romans 12:2 says, "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." 

The world says that to live a great life you must gain popularity, you need acceptance, people who will applaud and admire you; however, as people of faith, we aren't to follow in those footsteps. Instead, we are to be the kind of people who are self-less rather than selfish, always giving to others, full of integrity and being challenged to walk the right path, even if it's not the popular one. Instead of looking for acceptance and applause, seek integrity and righteousness...while it may not be glamorized or applauded, it's worth far more in the end. 

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5 Fall Essentials

When thinking of a few key pieces for fall, it can be a somewhat overwhelming task to try and incorporate all the latest trends and looks, and with things constantly changing, it just seems best to take the classics and update them with a fresh look for this season. 

So, here's my top picks for fall's closet essentials. 

Blazer: A great fitting blazer is truly a staple. When thrown over a dress it adds a menswear appeal, and can be paired with jeans and a tee for errand running or a coffee date. Choose one that has a bit of a tailored waist to define and shape your middle. For curvier girls, a boyfriend blazer skims and slims your shape, just make sure that the sleeves are on the slim fitting side so things don't look sloppy. 

Boots: As soon as the first bit of crisp air arrives, it's time to bring out this season's favorite footwear. From ankle length to over the knee, there are oh so many options to choose from. Play around with color and heel height to create all kinds of fun looks. 

Colored Pants: Yes, this trend has been hanging out with us since spring, but it waltzes nicely into fall with a more muted and classy feel as colors change from summer's neon brights to rich shades of bordeaux, burgundy, plum, cobalt and deep green. If the bright hues of seasons past were too risky to try, this is the time to embrace the color trend...it's a fun departure from your classic jean. 

Handbag: Let's be honest, it's so much fun to get a new handbag for a new season, or to pull out the one you've been waiting to use since last year. A cross-body bag is a hands free option that is both fun and functional, especially when you're trying to hold multiple pumpkin spice lattes. Choose a bright shade, a classic black or cognac, or even a pretty pastel. There's no rules for what colors are off limits this season!

Scarf: This is a small accessory that makes a big statement. If you're ever crunched for time, and at a loss of what to wear, throw a pretty scarf over a plain top and pair with tailored jeans or cropped black pants..voila, instant outfit. Wrap a black top with a leopard print, try your cute infinity scarf with a dress and tights...here's your chance to experiment. Who says black scarves are the only option?

What will you be wearing this fall? 

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Trending: Hi-Low

As a fashion enthusiast, I'm always looking to see how I can incorporate the latest trends into my outfits while still remaining true to my own personal style. Ariel has a similar take on fashion and always looks absolutely adorable in all of her fashion posts. Today she's chatting about the latest and very wearable trend in skirts & dresses! Enjoy! -C

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Hey, I’m Ariel over at On A Whim! I am so excited to be guest posting on Candice’s adorable blog today. She always puts together the cutest outfits and I love reading her weekly fashion posts.

With that in mind,

Let’s talk fashion. The Hi-Low trend in particular. 

I’ve never been a huge fan of this trend. It’s kind of like a dress with a beaver tail on it. In the Victorian era, the dress was actually nicknamed the “fishtail”. 

However, since the trend first became popular, it has definitely grown on me. It adds so much dimension to an outfit and creates a look that is right in between casual and formal. 

Here is one that I found at one of my favorite thrift stores. It has become one of my favorite pieces in my wardrobe. I chose to pair it with a solid black sweater to make the look a little more casual but easy to remove for a more elegant look.

Thanks so much for having me Candice! Again, I love hearing your fashion tips and had so much fun sharing a few of mine!

Will you rock a hi-low skirt? 

-Ariel

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Simply Styled

I'm so excited about the fun week of fashion ahead! Stay tuned for some fabulous tips, fall trends, and how-to ideas for dressing this season. If you have any fashion questions you'd like answered, tweet to me @Candiceelaineh using the tag #simplystyled and let's chat! 

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Find Me Here

I've been asked to share a few style tips in some fun places lately, so stop by and say hello! Perhaps you'll find something that will inspire you :)

The You Are Project:
-How to create fall's trends with things you already own

Lydia Mag:
-Practical style tips, Finding confidence as a Style Blogger & the perfect pair of shoes

Happy Thursday, everyone!

-Candice

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Transitions

As much as I LOVE summer, it's about time to acknowledge fall's arrival. While the stores begin to show all kinds of deep, dark colors and warm coats, there's no need to rid your closet completely of summer pieces. With a few tweaks, you can expertly combine your summer favorites into a perfect outfit for transitioning effortlessly into fall's vibrant style. 

Begin by choosing a simple shift dress..that striped one from summer's nautical trend works perfectly when combined with a colorful cardigan in a rich shade. Add pops of cobalt, one of fall's big colors in accessories, like a belt and pointed toe flats, and finish off the look with some mixed metal bangles and hammered gold earrings. For a more daring combination, try mixing stripes and polka dots (a major trend for the season) and cinch your waist with a lime green belt or play with complimentary color combinations like plum and yellow. 

Something to try for a smooth summer to fall transition is a simple swap of your sandals for some cute loafers or colored ballet flats. J.Crew and Target both have some adorable options to choose from. Don't be afraid to play with color in your accessories, especially jewelry and belts; these are quick and rather inexpensive ways to incorporate some of fall's trending looks. 

What are some of your favorite looks for fall? 

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Wordless Wednesday

(all via)

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Spring Trends You Can Wear

With Spring fashion in full bloom, daydreams of florals, sunshine and sandals await. 

Here's an easy guide to styling the latest trends for the season. 

You Can Wear...

Why I Love It: Soft and whimiscal, this soothing hue can carry you away to a seaside destination in the blink of an eye. From polish to purses, you'll be sure to see this shade all over the place. It's a universal color, so you're bound to look absolutely stunning in it!

How To Wear It: Channel the island paradise you're dreaming of by accessorizing in tropical fruit inspired jewelry, add a touch of trendy colorblocking through these fun flats, and a floppy straw hat to keep you looking chic while you shade your face from the sun. This can be thrown over a swimsuit to catch a drink at the juice bar, or styled for an afternoon of window shopping along the boardwalk. 

Why I Love It: Adored by the French and sailors alike, this closet staple is ready to show it's nautical colors once again. What's great about stripes is their ability to be dressed up, or thrown on with a favorite pair of worn in jeans and your trusty cardigan. 

How To Wear It: Classic elements in the same color palate dress up the top without saying that you're trying too hard. Compliment your grey blue hues with some skinny colored denim in an oceanic shade, and add a royal blue bag. Anchor the outfit with a neutral shoe in a smooth camel suede, and add a touch of whimsy with glittering emerald earrings. For your makeup, mimic a flush from a day at sea with a sweep of rose colored blush on the apples of your cheeks, and a dab of colored gloss on your lips. Tres chic, no?

Why I Love It: Inspired by the blooming beauties all around, these pants are not for the faint of heart; however, you'll be sure to make a unexpected and elegant entrance. Time to say hello to compliments! 

How To Wear It: In order to not overwhelm your frame, pair the pants with a soft, flowing shape on top in a light hue to continue the overall elegant feel; I chose a mint shade to brighten things up a bit! When it comes to shoes, replace your dainty flats for this dramatically glam take on t-strap pumps to toughen up the sweet florals. Accessorize with a structured bag in lemon yellow and neutrals that shows you mean business...can be fun! Don't forget to throw on a few chunky pieces of jewelry in golden tones and sapphire stones to punch up the color combo. You're ready for a working lunch, or a cupcake run with the girls. 

Don't you just love the trends of the season? Which is your favorite?

Happy Monday!

P.S. I'm doing a fun post over here today, so come by and say hello! Oh, and did I mention
there's a 1 minute Chocolate cake recipe there too? Exactly. You won't want to miss it. 

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An Original

(Dress: Lilly Pulitzer, Shoes: Rampage, Belt: Thrifted, Clutch: F21, Necklace: F21, Sunglasses: Michael Kors)

Leopard print has really hit it big, especially in my closet, and when you add a dash of my favorite aqua shade, it's an automatic winner. End of story. 

One of the most important things I've learned when putting outfits together is to see things as art; color interplay, texture combinations, the fit and flattery of different pieces, and how certain accessories can make or break an outfit. Every piece works together to create some sort of overall aesthetic feel, and so as cheesy as it sounds, you're wearing an original work of art, thought out and creatively expressed. How fun! 

P.S. Can you believe it's almost February already?! Wow!

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Limelight

(Top: Ralph Lauren, Skirt: Target, Shoes: Lilly Pulitzer, Belt: Coach, Earrings: c/o Frock Stock)

There's a lot to love about bright colors, in fact they seem to lift your mood, just like a sunshine-filled day  like today. The lingering coolness in the air makes it seem as though spring is right around the corner. Is it safe to say that I'm not missing the coats and sweaters one bit? Usually I'm all about the cold weather, but as of late I've been dreaming of balmy breezes, swaying palm trees and island music playing. If you soon discover me on some island relaxing in a hammock, don't say I didn't warn you..

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Rock Your Closet: Cute Outfits You Already Own

Believe it or not, the holidays are upon us, and invitations to parties and other fun events will begin to arrive. Ever been stuck standing in front of your closet without an idea of what to wear to a get-together in 2 hours? Here's a few quick and easy outfit ideas based on remixed wardrobe staples you've got in your closet. You'll be ready, no matter the occasion!

Remember, color is your friend, even if it's drab outside. Play with different combinations, throw in some fun textures like fur, sequins and patterned tights; add fun accessories to complete your look. The holiday season is all about sparkle, so show up with your biggest smile and a cute outfit!

No need to be stuck in front of the closet anymore!

Which one is your favorite?

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Trend to Try: Color Blocking

Today my stylish sister, Lauren, is here to show you how to wear the latest trends in fall style.

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(Dress: F21, Tights: Hue, Belt, Bracelet & Clutch: Thrifted, Shoes: Nina, Earrings: Paper Doll)

Color blocking is extremely popular this fall and so are vibrant hues. The shades of pumpkin and plum are very stylish and playful. For an easy way to experiment with color blocking, try pairing a solid dress with colored tights; it's best to choose one vibrant shade and one deeper color to get a nice contrast. Accessorize with classics like gold or silver and you're good to go!

Will you try color blocking?

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Love That: Capes

(Cape:Loft, Jeans: F21, Shoes: Pour La Victoire, Bangles: LaurenElizabeth, Clutch: Thrifted)

Capes are making a comeback in a huge way this season, and happen to be flattering on all body types! 

This ladylike and warm silhouette adds instant polish to your wardrobe, and depending on the fabric, can be worn to the office or to brunch on the weekend. Petite women should choose a cropped version, to elongate legs, while taller women can wear a more voluminous shape. Pear-shaped girls should try belting their cape to accentuate their figure, and curvy girls should look for a streamlined cut. 

Simple, elegant and polished. 

Are you loving capes?

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