Glitter, Shine and Save: How to wear your favourite jewellery on a budget

After a recent visit to the dollar store for craft supplies, I decided to stroll around to see what new things the bargain store might have. To my delight I saw the cutest, little charm necklaces only for $2.99. One was a sailor inspired anchor and the other was the oh-so-chic Eiffel Tower. Now some of you might be hesitant to visit the dollar store when in need of some fashionable fare but always remember this, it is always about taste. If something is tasteful, then no matter how much it costs it won't look cheap. Believe me.

This venture into the dollar store inspired me. It made me realize that if I could find cute jewellery pieces from the dollar store, where else could I find affordable and adorable pieces to spruce up the 'ole wardrobe?

Enter Forever 21. Famous for their endless array of super-trendy, super-cheap colourful fashions, I decided to take a look at their jewellery and I was pleasantly surprised.

 Here we have Forever 21's blue, green and purple stretch jeweled cuff. This piece is perfect with a black fitted turtleneck and dark skinny jeans to help add some glamour to your everyday wear. It would also work beautifully with a simple black shift and some pearls. Wintertime is the perfect time to wear glittery and colourful pieces, so go out and scoop up this dazzling cuff. Your wrist will thank you.


Nothing says glamourpuss and sassy woman-in-charge quite like a cocktail ring. When you reach out your hand for a handshake or hold your martini glass those painted nails will not be the only thing catching everyone's eye. This sparkly stunner has a pearl centre surrounded by black rhinestones and a cluster of white rhinestones to take the shine up a notch. The colour combo reminds me of a certain brand that is synonymous with everything elegant. This goes best with your jewelled toned numbers and stiletto heels. Or for fun, glam up your plaid button down with a pencil skirt and pearls and you are ready for a fabulous day at the internship!



Crosses have been around since the Middle Ages and beyond. In the 21st century, crosses have taken a more decorative route with all sorts of eclectic creations being seen on necks all around the world. This particular cross necklace takes inspiration from the Victorian era with a shiny rhinestone in the centre. Perfect with a simple white tee or crisp white button down, this cross adds some sparkle and charm to the simplest of outfits. You can also layer this necklace with other charms or wear with your pearl necklaces for a more personalized and eclectic look.


What are your favourite ways to spruce up your look on a budget? What are your most coveted jewellery pieces? Don't forget to add in the comments or Twitter me!

Enjoy!                                        

Amanda
amandasfashionspot@gmail.com
https://twitter.com/AFSpot

Photo of the Day: The Classics Part Deux

As I have mentioned before, when it comes to fashion I have a very strong love for the classics. In this case that includes black, leopard print, stripes, a quilted bag and red lips. In these photos, supermodel Claudia Schiffer and actress turned fashion designer, Sienna Miller show that a simple yet fashionable look never dies.

Sienna is wearing a look from her own fashion line, Twenty8Twelve and looks every bit confident and chic. Her red lipstick takes the look to the next level.

Claudia wears Chanel's signature pieces, a striped top and quilted bag. The look is taken up a notch with a double C necklace and above the knee slouchy camel boots. Love it!

What are your favourite looks?

Enjoy!

Amanda
amandasfashionspot@gmail.com
https://twitter.com/AFSpot

Trick or Chic?: How to Infuse Fashion Into Your Hallowe'en Costume

It is my favourite time of year as I am inundated with a zillion fashion events to keep up with, the holidays are fast approaching and most importantly the one night of the year, when it is perfectly acceptable to wear a shockingly scary outfit, Hallowe'en!

But who says that your costume has to be ghoulish, freaky or scary? Why not try to something a little chic and dress up as your most cherished fashionista or fashionmista? What better way to see what it is really like to be like one of your fashion favourites for a day and show your love for all things fashion and style?

There are so many fabulous people to choose from but the ones that truly stood out that evoke a true signature style are none other than, Anna Wintour, Rachel Zoe, Karl Lagerfeld and John Galliano. Each have stood out for not only their career accomplishments but trademark style. Check it out below for costume ideas on how to dress as your fashion favourites!

All About the Boys

Karl Lagerfeld-When you see this man not only do you think quilted bags and double interlocking C's but you also think of a man who is in charge and knows a thing or two about how to put together a tailored and edgy ensemble. The best way to achieve this serious look come Hallowe'en is easy as pie:

For the hair, visit your local costume shop and pick up a white wig with a ponytail or if you have long, hair smooth it back and apply baby powder or temporary coloured hair spray.

For the clothes, get a velvet or satin black tailored blazer with matching pants. If you don't have one, check your local vintage store. Add a white ruffled button down and black bow tie or long tie underneath the jacket.

For the accessories, pick up silver cross chain necklaces and medallions as well as motorcycle gloves to add the edge. Don't forget the signature black sunglasses as they are the cherry on the sundae of this look.

John Galliano-Known for his magical and threatrical designs, Monsieur Galliano does not forget to add a whole 'lotta flair to his daily ensembles. With his signature tops hats and thin mustache, he always stands out. To achieve this fashion forward look follow these steps:

For the hair, purchase a long super straight bronde wig. Also, if you don't already have facial hair, purchase a thin fake mustache and soul patch or you can get some fun fur and facial glue to improvise.

For the clothes, invest in a low cut button vest and tight pants. You can have fun with it and invest in a pattern suit set with lotsa sequins!

For the accessories, wear an ornate cross, edgy, spiky rings and the signature top hat! Have fun with it and add some sequined ties, bows or faux flowers.

Where my ladies at?

Anna Wintour-as editor-in-chief of the fashion bible, VOGUE Miss Wintour's look screams authority with the dark square sunglasses with a slightly rounded edge and fabulous fur coat. If you ever wondered what it would be like to be the queen bee of fashion for a day, here's your chance!

For the hair, you must purchase a light brown bob wig for it is just too perfect and too cute. Try buying a wig made for flappers as most of them are bobs.

For the clothes, Anna Wintour is often seen in an oh-so-chic fur coat and printed shift dress. Perfect for a lady and perfect for a fashionista. Try black tights with your dress due to the chilly weather.

For the accessories, black plastic sunglasses and statement necklace, preferably one with baubles galore. Also, try a slim gold or leather strap watch to add a touch of sophistication.

Rachel Zoe-The Zoeinator is everyone's favourite stylist. With her hilarious and fashionable reality show, The Rachel Zoe Project in which she seems to have a catch phrase for literally everything (literally) she shows that working in fashion is no piece of cake. Re-creating her famous boho-chic look is like one, two, three.

For the hair, if you don't naturally have blonde wavy hair invest in a wig. You can also purchase some blonde hair mascara to create her California sun kissed hair. For her signature waves, whip out the old curling iron.

For the clothes, there could not be a true Rachel Zoe look without her staple fur vest and wide leg jean. Make sure to invest in a flow-y blouse underneath. If you are in the mood to wear a dress, check out a vintage store for a colourful and printed lightweight butterfly sleeved maxi dress.

For the accessories, oversized sunglasses, oversized clutch and wedges. Need we say more?


There you have it! Your guide to being fashionable and fabulous this Hallowe'en. Email or tweet me your Hallowe'en looks!

Enjoy!

Amanda
amandasfashionspot@gmail.com
https://twitter.com/AFSpot

Ahhh.....THE CLASSICS: Meaning: serving as a standard, model, or guide, of enduring interest, quality, or style

The classics come in many forms the Chanel suit, the LBD, a cashmere sweater and the perfect red lipstick.

The fashionable lady should not only wear the classics, know how to cook up the classics as well.

Some of the favourites are the perfect roast chicken, a juicy meatloaf, the creamiest macaroni and cheese, a basic omelette, and the yummiest apple pie . A couple of my personal  favourites  are the classic roast chicken dinner, which fills the home with the best aroma ever, and waking up Sunday morning heading  to the kitchen , having  that first cup of coffee and whipping up the perfect omelette. 

So when your feeling the need to return to the classics why not head to the kitchen and indulge in some of my favourites or come up with some of your own. And now, a recipe for the breakfast classic the Omelette!

Bon Apetite!

Ingredients:

Serves 1

3 large eggs, preferably room temperature

Coarse salt and ground pepper

1 tablespoon chopped scallions and/or fresh herbs

1 tablespoon butter, plus more for serving

Method:

 1.    In a medium bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. Season with salt and pepper, whisk in salt and pepper, whisk in scallions and or herbs if desired.

 2.    Heat butter in a non-stick skillet over medium/high heat, tilting to coat pan, add whisked eggs to skillet.

 3.   Cook stirring quickly, until eggs begin to thicken, pull edges of omelette

        toward center and tilt pan so uncooked eggs flow to edges.

 4.    Cook until  eggs are cooked through and remove to a warmed plate.

Serve with slices of whole grain toast, and some freshly squeezed OJ and

enjoy.

Donna for Amanda's Fashion Spot
amandasfashionspot@gmail.com
https://twitter.com/AFSpot

Summer, Summer, Summertime: Resort Collections Part One

With the hot, hazy days of summer the last thing you want to be wearing are jeans, jeggings or formfitting anything. Instead, it is always best to opt for something more fluid, loose and bright with perhaps an embellishment here or there.

Although resort collections are typically for the annual winter vacation, I can't help but admire them come summer time. I just love the lightness and colour of it, and the way it makes you feel as if you are sunbathing on Lake Como when you are really just in your backyard.

Behold my favourite looks from Resort 2011: 

Chanel, Chanel, Chanel. How can you not love Chanel? With its classic yet edgy take on everything, one cannot help but admire its beauty. These three looks are excellent for some fun in the sun.

The first look uses the always classic, all-American gingham which is just oh so cute! Bikinis with ruffles are a great way to add some swing to your beach lounging and what is a bikini without some accessorizing? If you plan on wearing jewelry to the beach such as this long necklace or perhaps some gold bangles,  I highly suggest you wear cheap jewelry to avoid ruining or losing a more expensive piece. I also recommend coating your jewelry in clear nail polish to help prevent rusting.

Look number two is classic, chic and cute all over! No Chanel look is complete without a chain strap bag and bow detail on a blouse. It appears that this geometric print jacket is a new alternative to the typical beach cover up. If you have a lightweight blazer, why not try wearing it over your bikini when you want to take break from the water.

Look number three is the way to wear to black in the summer, lightweight with a hint of sparkle. Halter-style maxi dresses are my fave and make everything in the summer seem so easy breezy. Perfect for afternoon cocktails and rooftop parties.

I hope I provided you with some midsummer fashion inspiration. Until next time!

Enjoy!

Amanda

Photo of the Day: Chic de la Chic

There is nothing more chic than the A-line silhouette coat shot in black and white. That is exactly what this photo from the latest Harper's Bazaar provides in this exquisite photograph of Katherine Heigl.

Apprécier!

Amanda

Amanda's Fashion Picks.......My Favourite Fashion Pieces

My favourite fashion collections are always couture and resort. Couture always thinks outside the box and resort always gives me the warm, fuzzy feeling that you get when the snow starts to melt and the sun starts to shine. With the constant snow fall that has been going on lately this is the perfect pick-me-up to the cold grey weather.

Elie Saab

Mighty Aphrodite! This couture collection is beyond beautiful. The soft colours mixed with shots of yellow and sparkles create a soft, floaty collection that makes me want to be a part of Shakespeare's A Midsummer's Night Dream. Ahhh! What a nice breath of fresh, couture air!

Chanel Couture

This show is just pastels, creamy white and delicious all over! It reminds me of cupcakes and confections with the styling conjuring up memories of Sofia Coppolla's Marie Antoinette. The big hair, bows, layers and ruffles are fit for a lady who wears her femininity on her sleeve.

3.1 Philip Lim

This resort collection is fresh, clean and modern, just the way I like it. The large eyelet fabric combined with the whites, greys and blacks adds a sophisticated sexiness that is perfect for day and good for night.

Amanda

Where Fashion and Art Collide: The Photography Exhibits

If you are looking for the perfect fall afternoon excursion, why not visit the Royal Ontario Museum or the Art Gallery of Ontario? Each are currently hosting exhibits honouring fashion photography from now until January 3,

2010.

The ROM is showing Vanity Fair Portraits: Photographs 1913-2008 presented by the Bay, in celebration of Vanity Fair's modern version 25th anniversary and its older version 95th anniversary. The exhibition is a collection of 150 iconic photographs from Vanity Fair including portraits of old Hollywood celebrities such as Cary Grant, Louis Armstrong and mommy dearest herself, Joan Crawford. For more modern photographs, check out Prince William, Liza Minelli and Madonna from her Evita phase. This exhibition is definitely a must-see for art goers and fashionista's alike.

Next stop is the AGO, which features the work of the photographer who revolutionized fashion photography in the 1920's and '30's, Edward Steichen former chief photographer of Vanity Fair and Vogue. The Edward Steichen: In High Fashion, the Conde Nast Years, 1923-1937 exhibit features over 200 photographs of Steichen's work including a 1932 cover of Vogue and a photograph of several models wearing Chanel circa 1928. If you would like an early look of fashion photography from one of fashion legends, this exhibit is the place for you!

Go on and get out! Celebrate fashion's greatest pieces of photography! Whether it be for inspiration, an history lesson or pure imagination make sure to see these iconic exhibits, for cold weather is never an excuse to not see what the fashion world has to offer, especially with all the fabulous fall clothes to choose from.

Enjoy!

Amanda

Razzle, Dazzle Me :The Fall Clothing Show

This past weekend was The Fall Clothing Show. A famous affair where designers, vintage connoisseurs and craftspeople extraordinaire come together under one roof and sell their best pieces. 

This year there was something for everyone: an abundance of wool pieces including cloche hats and shredded wool shawls, popular feathered headbands and mix 'n' match clothing from House of Spy. There was an excellent selection of vintage clothing ranging from 1940's to 1980's, full of fur coats, plaid shirts, leather boots and evening dresses, this section of the event certainly had you covered for the chilly season. 

Although this was The Clothing Show, I must say it was the jewellery and accessories that took centre stage. Colourful feathered head pieces were everywhere, eclectic layered and charmed necklaces could be found on nearly every table and almost every vintage booth had an assortment of classic quilted bags (Is it just me or is Chanel in the air?) and interestingly, bright yellow pumps.

Between my mother and I, the only items that we picked up were a beautiful selection of vintage jewellery including, a cameo necklace, a diamond brooch, a pearl necklace, a gold plated anchor charm bracelet, cream quilted bag and gold chain link bag. 

I guess this all goes to show that you that cannot judge a book by it's cover (in this case a title) because you never what little treasures you may be able find. 

Amanda

Photo of the Day

Lily Allen strikes a pose Audrey Hepburn-style in these new advertisements for Chanel's new handbag line. I love the classic fashion inspiration.

Amanda

Photo of the Day

Glamorous, classic and effortlessly chic. What more can be said?

Amanda

Mona Lisa Smile: Raiding my Auntie's Closet

My mother and I are visiting my lovely aunt (which I will refer to as Mona Lisa) and doing something I always remember doing, "shopping" in her closet. Today, Mona Lisa is showing some of her latest beautiful clothing finds. A silky red and white polka dot blouse that would look great on any fashionable lady, a white Chanel-inspired handbag and corkscrew wedges. Mona Lisa is very happy to show us her newly renovated closet lined with inspiring fashion looks. My mother and I are also excited because (at the time) we have an exciting trip to New York City coming up and generous Mona Lisa is always very giving. At this shopping trip, I get a beautiful pink floral bracelet and my mother receives the silky red and white polka dot blouse I mentioned. That was a good shopping trip.

I have always loved watching Mona Lisa happily show my mother, my other aunt, my grandmother and myself all her beautiful items, for she would always do it with a smile. Her enthusiasm and knowledge reminded me of one of those ultra stylish saleswomen in Holt Renfrew that you always wish you could be like when you grew up. When I was little, I used to go into Mona Lisa's room and love what was around me. Her dressers were filled with bottles of perfume, cosmetics, beautiful jewellery and sweet mementos, her room always smelt fresh with a whiff of sweet perfume and her collection of clothes was everlasting. (In fact it was so big that she had two!)

Mona Lisa's interest in fashion began when she was a just a little girl, where she would lie on the floor and watch her grandmother, who was a seamstress, sew. Her grandmother's fashion sense passed down onto her and Mona Lisa still has a crotchet jacket and gorgeous Chinese silk jacket (in impeccable condition) that was given to her by her grandmother in the 1960's. It was from a young age that Mona Lisa learned so many of her fashion tips, that still ring true today. Among them were: always buy quality items because it will last forever, if you ever see something you love buy it because you may never see it again and always value style over brand. The last rule Mona Lisa has definitely always stayed true to. She mixed high and low pieces before it was ever in style. Mona Lisa can always find items in Winners, Holt Renfrew, The Bay, vintage stores, Victoria's Secret and even the dollar store! No matter where Mona Lisa has found her items they have all been beautiful, special and glamorous.

Some of my favourite shopping trips to Mona Lisa's closet include when I received a black and white polka-dot halter dress that is very Marilyn Monroe, when I got a black Chanel-inspired handbag (which I love and wear everywhere!) and when I got a rectangular emerald green suede purse. Whenever my mother or other aunt need a new item for any special event they never forget to stop by Mona Lisa's closet and each "shopping" trip is never a disappointment. One time when my mother went, she was able to borrow a black sequined blouse that was to die for!

As I write this I feel so lucky to have such a stylish aunt that I can always gain fashion inspiration from. It is even more inspiring to always see her so enthusiastically talk about her beautiful pieces and never without a Mona Lisa smile.

Do you have an individual in your life that you have found inspired your own fashion choices?

Amanda

New York, New York It's a Helluva Town! Part Deux

What is a trip to New York City without a little shopping? Well, in my case a lot shopping. NYC is filled with oodles and oodles of places to shop 'til you drop. Uptown, Downtown, East Side, West Side, clothes are everywhere and I love it!

Some memorable places include a small store called, Taroo located in Murray Hill. The small white boutique has tons of colourful bohemian inspired pieces and exotic jewellery. Some items that I picked up there include, a bright pink peasant top with colourful embroidery and a silvery blue lightweight ruffled dress. Perfect for a summer afternoon catching a Broadway show or a lunch date.

A store that must be visited when in Manhattan has to be the Marc by Marc Jacobs Accessories store located on 385 Bleecker Street. The store that is no stranger to long line ups, bright colours and stylish sales associates is filled with affordable accessories all by Marc Jacobs. Last summer I got a purple quilted clutch and a gun metal quilted bag that was only $64. This year they had a colourful python clutch with a chain link handle that was ah-mazing for $74. It would great for a night on the town in a black blazer, hot heels and a mini skirt.

My favourite store to visit would have to be Nolita's Project 234. Carrying designers and brands such as, Yumi Kim and Plastic Island I felt welcomed by this small boutique through the warm inviting smell of pomegranate citrus and its surrounding positive energy. I was instantly taken away by the gorgeous prints of the beautiful Yumi Kim dresses. A piece that caught my eye was a purple floral silk t-shirt dress. It works perfect for day with a pair of jewelled gladiator sandals and delicate gold jewellery. It is lightweight, very comfortable and made me feel so pretty as I wore out of the store and down Bleecker Street. Another standout piece was a silk chiffon floral ruffled button-up. Worn by the store's friendly manager, this Yumi Kim design looks great with tailored shorts for a casual summer day or crisp white linen pants for work. I loved these pieces and the entire store. The music including No Doubt, Justin Timberlake and AHA's, Take on Me puts you in a relaxed, happy mood. The clothes are great for any fashionista who loves colour, print and a dash of sophistication. Project 234 located at 234 Mulberry Street is definitely a hot shopping spot to visit while in New York City!

Last but not least would have to be good 'ole H&M. I know, I know. Why go all the way to New York to shop at a store that is right here in Toronto? Well I have got to tell ya, the prices there are about $5 to $10 less than they are here and they have many different styles that are not available in Toronto. I snatched up a Chanel-inspired chain link scarf, white skinny jeans, a lightweight grey t-shirt, a red and white gingham button-up shirt (perfect for Canada Day) and studded sandals.

All in all New York City shopping was a great success. I came with a brand new summer wardrobe and a shot of some New York style!

Amanda

The Pressure to be Thin

The fashion industry defines what is considered to be en Vogue whether it is clothing, hair style or body type. Spain's recent ban on the use of runway models with a body mass index lower than 18% has raised the question, is it ethical for major fashion houses to advocate an unhealthy body image to the mass media?

Major fashion houses such as Chanel, Gucci and Prada mostly use stick thin models on their runways and this projects a narrow view of what is considered to be beautiful. During the rise of fashion designers in Paris, designers began to have a one-on-one relationships with their clients in which the dictated what theywould wear and the images used that would promote their designs. Promoting a narrow beauty ideal implies that if you do not fit that stereotype that you yourself are not en Vogue. Models have been known to succumb to the pressures of fitting into beauty ideals. Removing lower ribs, back teeth and eating disorders have been common practices that have occured among models to achieve the ideal model look that many fashion designers create and deem beautiful. Fashion's elite excludes those who are not able to afford all the fabulous things that are included in fashion advertisements as well as imply that you will be improved if you emulate the look and lifestyle of your social superiors.

Many of the models used in fashion advertisments are as young as 14 years old. In a 1995 Calvin Klein advertisement the use of very thin teenaged models in a seedy motel setting, sparked FBI investigation for its references to child pornography. It is images such as this that brings up the issue of how fashion industry, at times, represents woman as young as prepubescent girls. The popular 1990's emaciated, dazed look for models entitled, "Heroin Chic" was considered to be a rejection of fashion's rigid beauty ideals. However, it created an entirely. The look of a model in a fashion advertisement or runway is the look of a finished product that has been highly altered and constructed to fit the mold of whatever the designer considers to be beautiful at that point in time. Unfortunately, fashion designers feel the need to project unobtainable images of woman because not only does it make high fashion seem even more exclusive but it creates an even stronger desire for woman tot go to whatever extreme it may be to become that standard of beauty.

Implicating the Body Mass Index for fashion models is a form of discrimination for models that are naturally thin. For 1960's model Twiggy, who naturally had a stcik-like frame, would it be fair to ban her from the runway? Adult magazines such as, Playboy Magazine try to promote women who have a more voluptuous figure and although some may feel that this is a positive because it no longer promotes the thin beauty ideal, it is still promoting another extreme image that a woman "should have". Woman who do not naturally have a voluptuous figure are then meant to feel if they are not voluptuous then they will not be considered sexually desirable. In the 21st century the fashion industry should strive towards equality and promoting images of models in all shapes and sizes regardless if they are thin or full figured.

Elite fashion designers set the bar for what is beautiful and part of women's fascination with the discriminating images that are portrayed in fashion advertisement and runways is the idea of an escape from their everyday lives. Women's desire to be part of the high fashion world has always existed. Napeleon's wife, Josephine de Beauharnais who was once a sommon woman becuase a queen of fashion through emulating the looks of her wealthy predecessors after marrying Napeleon. The ideal images that the fashion industry promotes, makes everyday woman want to emulate the way that models appear in the images and thus be part of the fashionably elite. However, the narrow representation of women in the fashion industry is unobtainable because the ideal look is forever changing. The popular "lean and lithe" look for models fo the 1970's soon became less popular when the muscular cosmetically enhanced look of the 1980's emerged. The fashion industry needs to show that women come in all shapes and sizes and should never be discriminated against because of the shape of their body. Luckily, as we move through the 21st century we realize that some small steps are being made to promote a more positive body image to the mass media. Dior fashion designer John Galliano is known for using thin and plus-sized models in many of his couture fashion shows.

Above all women need to learn to love themselves first regardless of what ideal beauty standard that major fashion houses promote as being en Vogue because fashion's ideal image may come and go but a woman will always have the same body.
Amanda