9 Style Staples Every Fresh Grad Should Invest In

Graduating from college signifies the end of an era and ushers in a new time for every young adult. During this period, you’ll begin your career journey, expand your social circle, and better know yourself. To prepare you for this next stage of your life, you’ll need to have the right clothes so that you can exude confidence and command respect. That being said, here are ten wardrobe items you should definitely invest in:

Tights

Dresses are easy and elegant fashion choices for job interviews and office meetings. Because of this, you must also have nice pairs of tights on hand that you can slip into when you need to put on said dresses. There are many kinds, from shaping tights that can help you look your best for important occasions, to control-top tights that reinforce mainly the waist and thigh section for nights out after work. Getting a pair of each type is a worthy investment as long as you get good-quality ones that won’t rip easily.

Hosiery

Although used as a general term for most legwear, hosiery usually refers to pantyhose and stockings which are generally sheer. They can come in a single piece that covers the toes up to the waist, or in a pair of separate garments similar to socks. The latter type usually reaches up to the knee or thigh and may be held in place by built-in elastic bands.

Hosiery is great for covering up imperfections on your legs. Additionally, hosiery is also more breathable because they’re usually thinner than tights. Knee-high hosiery is perfect for long dresses and skirts, while control top and shaping hosiery work well for fitted dresses because of their added support and ability to smooth out the waist.

High-quality blazer

Blazers are an easy way to cover up especially when wearing sleeveless tops or dresses to work. It also gives a more professional and serious touch to any outfit. This is one item where quality beats quantity, especially for recent grads. Although spending a lot of money on a good pair might not seem logical, high-quality blazers will likely last longer than cheap ones. Black, white, and brown are good neutral shades that work well with a variety of colored outfits.

Button-down shirt

A long-sleeved button-down paired with slacks is perfect for job interviews. Meanwhile, a short-sleeved button-down matched with jeans and sneakers is perfect for a casual day out. It’s no wonder why button-downs are a closet staple, so don’t hesitate to match them with various bottoms and accessories for a slightly different look every time.

Stylish Blouse

Blouses are a great choice when dressing for the office. The best part is that they’re available in almost every color and pattern you can think of. Similar to how you should choose dresses, pick blouse styles that flatter your body type. In terms of color, light-colored blouses are often favored by working women because they contrast well with dark pants or skirts.

Appropriate Skirt

Appropriateness refers not only to the length of the skirt, but also the style of the skirt with respect to your body type and size. In general, you’ll want to opt for skirts that are knee-length or longer. As for skirt styles, it depends on each individual’s silhouette. For example, those with an apple body shape will look great in high

waist flouncy skirts. Meanwhile, pear-shaped women will look gorgeous in A-line skirts that highlight the waist and flare out to hide wide hips. Generally, pencil skirts flatter all body types but are best suited for hourglass shapes since they accentuate the waist.

Well-fitting Pants

Nothing is more practical for recent grads than a pair of formal pants. You can use these pants for job hunts, nights out, and everything in between. Make sure they fit well and are made of durable material as you will likely be wearing them all the time. Try to build up a small collection of pants in dark and neutral colors to offer yourself some variety when dressing up for the day.

Comfortable Shoes

Most workplaces still require working women to report to the office in a pair of heels, and said workplaces may also expect this of interviewees. If you must wear heels, stick to low block styles so you can walk more comfortably during the day. In case your potential future office has a more lenient dress code, getting comfortable work-friendly flats is the way to go.

Whatever type of footwear you go for, get a sturdy pair that can withstand constant trips to and from interviews, workdays, or social gatherings. Ballerina and D’ Orsay flats are classics that pair well with formal workwear. However, don’t be afraid to try Oxfords or brogues if that’s more your thing. These shoes are often worn by working women with a pencil skirt and a formal blouse. You might even be able to get away with a comfy pair of boots if your potential workplace allows them.

Work-friendly Bag

No matter the job, it’s good to have a sturdy, professional-looking bag that you can count on to contain all your work essentials. Bags in black, white, or other neutral shades like beige or brown can complement most outfits. You may also want to throw in some bag organizers for hygiene products and makeup. These organizers are especially helpful if you change bags between work and other activities in your day.

The items listed above are just some of the more practical fashion essentials that every recent grad should invest in. We hope you’ve found this article useful!

As a parting tip, remember that building your wardrobe does not need to happen overnight. Try buying these pieces one or two at a time, and always be on the lookout for ways to save on them. You can, for example, wait for clearance sales or search online for discount coupons. You may even want to consider purchasing some of these items second-hand. That way, you don’t have to worry about breaking your budget while building the foundations of your professional wardrobe.

Fashion Packing Essentials For Your Summer Travels

If you are a frequent traveler then you will know that getting your packing essentials right, will get you ready for the trip much more easily. Having exactly what you need means that you can look how you want for every occasion, and packing with efficiency in mind means that you can pack relatively light, rather than having to take with you a big overstuffed suitcase. When you travel in summer, there is the extra bonus that you don’t have to think about taking bulky items like coats and snow boots. That means that you will have more capacity to pack light and only take just what you need. 

It doesn’t matter if you’re planning a city break or a trip to the beach, only taking what you will actually wear will make a big difference. You can stock up on your favorite fashions at  Vibe Clothing Company. So with all of that in mind, here are some must-haves for your travels this summer, along with some tips that are going to help you to make packing simple. Then it can make packing for your trip quick and easy, and not stressful at all. What are your favorite things about summer fashion?

Maxi Dress

Having a maxi dress is something that is easy and simple to wear, but will look good on every vacation. It is a piece of clothing in your suitcase that is so versatile, as it can be dressed down during the day, worn to the beach with natural hair and sunglasses, along with some sandals. However, it can also be dressed up with a pair of wedge heels in the evening, along with a pair of statement earrings, and bright lipstick, ready to party. A maxi dress also makes a difference as you have a whole outfit ready to go with just one item of clothing. When you have a light maxi dress then it will also be a good space saver in your case, helping you to pack as light as possible.

Cardigan

It doesn’t matter where you are traveling in the summer, you need to have an extra layer in your suitcase. There can be rainstorms or cooler evenings, and having that layer to keep warm with can make a big difference. That is why having a cardigan in your case, that you can always travel in too, can be used for a morning walk, on the plane, or when eating out in a cool air conditioned restaurant. Keep a cardigan in a natural color, and it will mean that it will suit any outfit that you have packed in your bag, helping how versatile that item of clothing is.

Basic tees

Packing some basic tees are going to be such a good addition to your summer travels wardrobe. When they are plain and basic style, they will work with so many styles. For example, they can be worn easily with jeans, a denim skirt or shorts, as well as a pair of wide-leg pants. Having a basic tee packed in your case can be helpful when you’re just looking for something to throw on with shorts to grab a coffee or go out for a walk or lunch. You can look fashionable and stylish with basic tees, but they look effortless. Add a statement necklace to jazz the whole look up.

Scarf

So being summer travels, this doesn’t mean a thick wool scarf like you might take when going on a skiing trip. However, taking a scarf like a pashmina scarf or a shemagh scarf can be a good addition to pack in your case. They are light, meaning that they won’t take up much space in your case, and they’re not too thick to add in as an extra layer when you need one on the plane or on a cooler evening. They can also be used for a variety of things, such as covering your face and mouth if you’re out quad biking, or used as a headscarf if you need a little shade from the sun. Choose a light option, in a versatile color, and it will help to suit a range of outfits, perfect for the summer.

Sandals

Sandals that work for the beach, as well as more fashionable sandals, are both musts for summer travels. You can mix and match with your clothing and your sandals of choice, so maybe think about taking a more fun pair of sandals, as well as a more classic pair. No matter what you choose, it is wise to think about making sure that the sandals are comfortable. You’re likely to do a lot of walking out onto trips, which can make a big difference. If you have brand new sandals, then you won’t want to take them brand new, as they can take a while to break in, and hurt your feet along the way. 

Sneakers

If you like to explore when you travel and get a little off the beaten track, then taking sneakers is a must. No matter how warm the weather is, sandals just aren’t going to cut it when you want to explore outdoors. That is why a comfortable pair of sneakers is a must. They can be comfortable to travel in, as well as being comfy when outdoors. They can also double up as your training shoes if you like to exercise when you’re away, whether that is out running or at the hotel gym. For the most stylish option, choosing a plain pair of white sneakers can work well, as they will suit everything, from dresses to shorts, to jeans, and workout clothes.

Large beach or tote bag

A tote bag helps to give you the kind of space that you need to carry all of your vacation essentials. They can look so good too, so you don’t have to sacrifice on your style! If you can find a large tote-style bag that comes with a zipper, then it can be the best for traveling, making sure that items don’t fall out, which is important when on your travels. If you’re heading out to the beach with your bag, then it can be filled with all you need like sunglasses, books, towels, sun hat, phone, wallet, water, snacks, keys, and other bits and bobs that you need. Having the space that a large bag like that brings will be so helpful on your travels.

Anti-chafing shorts

Having some anti-chafing shorts is a must for summer, and they need to be packed into your suitcase. Although they aren’t going to be seen by other people, they are a great addition to the suitcase, no matter your size. They can help you to be super comfortable as you move around on your travels, and they are also really functional too, allowing you to up your fashion stakes as you travel, as you’ll be more comfortable in whatever you wear. 

Having some ‘chub rub’ shorts that are moisture-wicking can be worn with dresses and skirts, as well as under other shorts, and will stop your thighs from getting sore in the heat, which can happen when you’re out all day on hot summer days. They are pretty inexpensive to buy, but can be a savior in your wardrobe.

What are some of your favorite summer clothes that you love to travel in? With a few essentials for your suitcase you can have a summer wardrobe that looks good, as well as works well for all that you will be doing on your travels. It would be great to hear what plans you have for summer!

 

Essential Things to Consider When Choosing Sunglasses

Apart from the purpose of fashion and beauty, sunglasses are important items in life. They protect the eyes from dust and UV rays. Doctors always recommend wearing sunglasses every time you go outside. However, you need to know the right sunglasses that will provide the right protection. With the numerous options available today, it can be quite a challenge to choose the right sunglasses. Luckily, this article is available to guide you through the process of buying the right sunglasses. It has listed down several factors you need to consider.

Consider UV Protection

The most important reason why people wear sunglasses is to protect their eyes from harmful UV rays from the sun. therefore, before you go choosing the color or considering the cost of the glasses, confirm if they offer UV protection. UV protection is not about the color of the lenses. It is the additional chemicals added to the lenses to keep off the rays. Therefore, make sure the sunglasses can provide 99% UV protection.

Look for Special Features

Most of the sunglasses come with special features to improve comfort and experience. For instance, goodr running glasses have polarized filters that help in removing reflection when the sun hits smooth surfaces like pavements or water. Another important feature is mirror coating that reduces the amount of light reaching the eyes. For an atmosphere with high glare, coated sunglasses are the best. Gradient tint also helps in cutting down the glare from reflected surfaces.

Choose a Bigger Size

When choosing the glasses, go for a bigger size. The more the glasses cover your face, the fewer the light from the sun. However, when choosing a bigger size, do not forget to consider the fit and your comfort. You can also choose a big size that wraps around your eyes to prevent excess light from seeping in. If you love fashion, then sunglasses with bigger lenses will do you good.

Check the Lenses

You also need to check the quality and tint of the lenses. Make sure you go for a bit darker lenses but not too dark. You can always scrutinize the lenses to see how perfect or imperfect they are. If you want to know perfect lenses, check if the edges move, curve or sways when you move the glasses. The lenses come in different colors like gray and amber. When choosing the lenses, always remember that the darker colors are not equal to UV protection.

Face Shape

This is another important aspect that you cannot skip on. As much as you want sunglasses for protection, you also need to make sure you look great in them. That means choosing sunglasses based on the shape of your face. For a square shape, look for round and or shield glass shapes. If your face is heart-shaped, then cat-eye or retro square sunglasses can go well with you. You can also choose cat-eye, rectangular, and retro square shapes for round-shaped faces.

Conclusion

Sunglasses are prerequisites for both eye protection and style. Therefore, whenever you are buying a pair, it is always vital to ensure you can achieve these two aspects. Just as you will look great and stylish in them, also make sure that the sunglasses are protecting your eyes.

If you love pearls, pearl earrings will be an essential part of your wardrobe.

Pearl earrings can be classical such as perfectly round shaped pearl earrings set as studs in your choice of white south sea cultured pearls, Tahitian black cultured pearls, Philippine gold cultured pearls, Japanese akoya cultured pearls, and Chinese freshwater pearls. In these types of pearl earrings, the studs are set in 18 or 9 or 14 carat gold in yellow, white or rose gold or in sterling silver if you prefer.

Aquarian Pearls, our valued Australian partner, also offer pearl earrings designed with pearls other than perfect traditional rounds. Nature gives us a variety of shapes in the pearl culturing process, these are oval, drop, button, circle, baroque and semi baroque, and keshi.

Keshi Pearls

Keshi are the non nucleated pearl that nature gives us when the host oyster rejects its nucleus and creates a naturally formed pearl anyway, so one could say, the natural by product of the culturing process.

Keshi pearls make fabulous earrings for clients who wish for something non traditional and more free form as keshi earrings are an interesting and different shape. Usually in pearl earring manufacturing, they choose keshi pearls which are flat baroque shape and being so lustrous and nacreous, they make beautiful and stunning pearl earrings.

When they use drops and oval shaped cultured pearls in their pearl earring manufacture, they are generally dropping down from the ear lobe and can be enhanced and manufactured with a wide range of accompanying diamonds, gemstones, semi precious stones and metals. Princess Diana, Princess Katherine, Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Liz Taylor, Kamal Harris, Keira Knightley, Oprah Winfrey, Taylor Swift, Maria Callas, Julie Bishop, Julia Gillard, Lucy Turnbull, Carla Zampatti, Coco Chanel, the list could go on and on of iconic women in politics, entertainment, fashion and royalty who have been pictured and photographed in their pearl earrings.

When they use button shaped pearls in their pearl earrings, they can often use a much larger sized pearl due to the fact that they are flatter shaped than a round pearl to make stud pearl earrings for everyday wear.

Baroque Pearls

Baroque pearl earrings are very popular for clients who are looking for a completely unique, individual and one off pair of pearl earrings that are totally unlike anyone else’s. Baroque pearl earrings can be made in as studs, drops, dangles and paired with gemstones and diamonds and semi precious stones and various precious metals in their designs.

Circled pearl earrings are also very popular. Circle pearls come in drop, button, round, off round, oval and bell shapes. They have concentric circular rings around them due to their host oyster’s movement within the tidal waters during their culturing process. Pearl earrings with circle pearls are a great way of achieving the classical pearl earring look with a more casual feel and are suitable for wear with all types of clothing. These circle pearl earrings are the most affordable and make for a very chic look. Half of the pearl earrings they manufacture at Aquarian Pearls are set with circle south sea pearls .

Pearl earrings manufactured with semi baroque cultured pearls are usually drops or ovals with a naturally formed baroque top giving an unique edge to their appearance.

Celebrities Wearing Pearls

In the movies, Scarlett Johannsen starred in the movie “girl with a pearl earring” featuring the famous painting by Johannes Vermeer, the 17th century Dutch master. In Highlander, the 1986 Russell Mulcahy directed movie, swordsman Ramirez played by Sean Connery sold his pearl earrings to buy clothes on arriving from another time and place.

Throughout history and worldwide, royalty, politicians, socialites and the stars of the entertainment industry have worn pearl earrings and pearl necklaces to adorn themselves and enhance their natural beauty and show their wealth and power.

Whichever style of pearl earrings you choose or wish for, Aquarian Pearls have a huge range to show you, with their in house jeweller, Kate Vivas can work with you to create anything you care to design together to make you the perfect pair of pearl earrings.

Indian Attire Styles During the Summer Season

Summers in India tend to get quite hot with temperatures going as high as 115 F in some places. With the attendant high humidity that characterizes coastal regions, the heat can make one wish he was elsewhere or had more comfort.

Although encumbered by this uncomfortable weather in summer, India continues to remain a top destination for tourists and explorers alike. This is likely due to its beautiful islands, tall peaks and deep forests, that attracts so many people. In short, India never has a scarcity of people. 

The implication of this temperature however is that you may not be able to wear traditional silk, sarees or satin. So what then can you wear during the summer? We share some ideas below;

1. Go White

Black colour absorbs heat. As such black outfits, and by extension dark ones, are a no-no in the Indian summer. In its place, white materials will cause heat rays to bounce off keeping the heat off you and helping you to stay cool. Also, white helps you to keep calm and stay collected. This is very useful as people tend to be on the edge as a result of irritation due to heat during the summer.

2. Keep it minimal

Indian summers are a good time to try on outfits with shorter hemlines. You can go don on sleeveless yet stylish outfits casually during the day and max them up further for an evening outing. Floral prints and pastels, Kitschy prints, and bright coloured outfits also add to the summer feeling and are perfect with the season. Maxi dresses are also highly rated for the beach and resort vibes which they give off.

You can also choose chic tops in cotton or linen. To project a casual/cool demeanour during this season. When shopping, try to pick out a variety of summer-ready Indian outfits; sleeveless, spaghetti’s, strapless, tubes or off-shoulder tops, for a cool and casual demeanour. 

When you wear this with shorts, skirts and trousers (perhaps darker bottom colors so it readily blends), you’d be ready to slay throughout summer. You can choose to pair your cotton tunics with pants or leggings; or choose to simply use a belt.

 3. Let cotton lead

Regardless of the time of day, no fabric is quite as convenient as cotton and you can pick from a wide range of cotton fabrics including the designer salwar kameez, organic tunics and dresses all of which make for very easy wear during summer. This is because these materials enable air to pass through easily keeping the skin aerated and the body cool. What’s more? Cotton fabric is considered eco-friendly so you can choose a cotton fabric and be proud of your fashion choices.

 4. The Salwar Kameez Way

Salwaar kameez provides a great option for anyone who wants to stay stylish for Indian events in the summer. Compared to Anarkali suits and lehenga choli, the salwar kameez is simplistic but it will help you battle the hot summer without being excessive.

 5. Why not Khadi?

Time was when this handmade fabric was very popular in India. It was Gandhi’s favourite and that of many Indians too but as more Indians embraced western wear, it was relegated to the background. Recently, however, the fabric is making a grand comeback because I can keep you cool during summer.

6. Line it up

Although linen has several textures and colours, it generally resembles netted cloth and allows the circulation of air freely. It also absorbs moisture.

7. Skirts and shorts

Your summer wardrobe is not complete if it doesn’t include shorts and skirts, both of which are great outfits for the summer.  When you smartly mix-match your skirts and shorts with your T-shirts of different colors, people think they are all unique outfits (Genius!).  

Go further by adding on a cute summer hat to the mix. Do this, and  you’d be making a summer-ready style statement!

 

Summarily,

Indeed, summer in India can get extremely hot and humid. However, getting it right with your dressing can save you a lot of trouble. Dressing for summer means: letting go of your jeans for loose or wider bottom cotton trousers; avoiding jackets, thick and dark materials; and doing away with slacks and synthetic tights. 

Whichever way, it will still be a worthwhile decision with enough clothes to fill in the gap.

Things You Should Know to Help Revamp Your Fashion Choices

It’s important to make sure you do as much as possible to help you improve and revamp your fashion choices. There are loads of things that you can do to work on this, and he right accessories like diamond cluster earrings made of solid gold are perfect for improving any style or fashion choices. You have to make sure you do as much as possible to improve your fashion decisions.

There are so many ideas you should be looking to make the most of to help you look more stylish, and there are some great ideas that you need to make the most of. Revamping your fashion choices this year means that you have to look at switching up your wardrobe and accessorizing in the best possible way. 

Observe the Trends

You have to make sure you look at what you can do to observe the right fashion trends, and there are loads of great things that will help with this. You have to think about some of the best changes you can make to your wardrobe that are going to help you stand out and make a great impression. Fashion is often cyclical, and this means there are plenty of options that will come around again at a later point. 

Out with the Old, in With the New

It’s time to think about making some important choices to improve and revamp your life. When it comes to revamping fashion choices, you have to look at getting rid of your old clothes wardrobe, and bringing in a new one. Staying on trend is important, and you need to make sure you think about the positive changes that can help to take control of your life. Updating your wardrobe and staying on-trend is a great way of helping you to look great and provide some great fashion choices. 

Accessorize as Well as You Can

There are some excellent ways of improving your fashion and style choices, and accessorizing is definitely a great way of being able to look better and can really help to enhance your fashion statements. Every outfit can be improved through the use of accessories, and buying Vacheron Constantin luxury watches online would be a wonderful example of a great way to accessorize in day to day life. The right accessories are perfect for improving any style or fashion choices, and it is vital that you try to find the accessories that work the best with the outfits and the style you want in your life. 

Being able to take steps that will help you to improve and revamp your fashion choices is so important, and there are plenty of great ways of achieving this. Looking as great as possible can enhance other areas of your life as well, so it is definitely a great idea to do as much as possible to try to improve this where possible. Try to do as much as you can to help revamp your fashion, and use these ideas to help with this. 

Cindy Karen Leggings Review


As a mom, I love to have clothes that are comfortable, yet fashionable. Even though leggings and yoga pants have been popular for several years, I honestly never got in to wearing them until after my son was born. (Before that, I think I saw them as something just for kids and teens.)  After my son was born, I changed my mind; for one thing, I realized a lot of successful people I look up to on blogs, Instagram, etc were wearing them.  And secondly, after losing my pregnancy weight, I think I actually realized how truly skinny I am and that leggings and yoga pants actually look good on. (This is something my husband has been trying to convince me of for years.)

Today I am reviewing some faux leather leggings from Cindy Karen.  The brand has fabulous tops, pants, jackets, and dresses for today’s business woman.  If you’re in sales and need the perfect outfit for your business luncheon or a blogger looking for something nice to wear to your next blogger conference, this is a great brand to consider! [Read more…]

happiness is… Clothing Review

I love shirts with words and sayings on them!  I recently got a new sweatshirt from happiness is…

They offer cute sweatshirts and t-shirts for men, women, and kids that say things like, “happiness is…morning coffee, “happiness is…family,” and “happiness is…the beach.”  There is a great assortment of shirts, and a an especially good selection for those who love the outdoors! [Read more…]

Orangeheat Review

Disclosure: I received samples to facilitate this post. The opinions are my own.

If you’re looking for unique kid’s clothing ideas for this Christmas, I invite you to check out Orangeheat.  The clothing company offers cute shirts of all sizes, starting at 3-6 months onesies and going all the way up to adult sizes.  The shirt designs are vintage inspired, featuring artwork reminiscent of kid’s drawings.

I personally like the variety of designs available.  The have something for everyone!  My son loves trucks and construction vehicles, so I was really excited when they sent him shirts featuring a firetruck, a Volkswagon, and an excavator.  Thaxton was excited when he saw the shirts too.  When they came in the mail, he said, “Trucks!” [Read more…]

The Elephant Organics Review

Disclosure: I received free products to facilitate this review. The opinions are my own.

I love matching clothes for mom and child!  Last year I got the cutest set of Christmas pajamas for Thaxton and me.  Today I’m happy to share some mommy and me pajamas that you can wear year round!  These are from The Elephant Organics!   The Elepants Organics has cute clothes, pajamas, and accessories for newborns, adults, and every age in between.   They have a wide variety of cute fabrics and prints with many items available in each print.  And they have collections for boys, girls, and gender neutral. [Read more…]