Peace, Joy, Style.

Credit: Google Images

If you’re a loyal subscriber like me, you may have noticed a few changes at American Vogue as of late.  The year of 2009 started us off with fresh faced cover girls like Blake Lively, Anne Hateaway, and leaded up to Michelle Obama. And that’s only the start.  Expect an upgrade of fresh, young photographers and a desire for “unpredictability” in the stories.

American Vogue has become a moment of escapism for me. It’s not Glamour or Good Housekeeping and it will never be like that.  Vogue captures even the wildest imagination at heart and shoots for the sky with the very latest in fashion and trends. You can have it all, or at the very least, dream about it.  My favorite additions were the Nostalgia column, Jeffrey Steingarten’s culinary column, the piece on Manners in the Flash section, and Andre Leon Talley’s column, of course.

But, lately, and I want to ask my dear readers what they think about American Vogue. What changes would you like to see in American Vogue?

Credit: Google Images

Take a page out of your favorite fashion magazine. You’ve probably noticed the fit and style of what the models were wearing: those proportions, the style, and the colors.  Everything seemed so precise and you might feel as if you could never look like that if you tried. That’s not necessarily true. The proportions were tailored endlessly to the model’s fit, and the style was often produced by the creator’s imagination to create something pretty to look at.

The clothes look so effortlessly put together. But, we often claim that we don’t have the stylists, the clothes, or the body from making ourselves look so chic. But, that isn’t necessarily true.  You are your own personal stylist. Nobody is more welcome to add something or take something off than yourself. You know what works and what doesn’t for yourself. And most importantly, you can wear whatever you want with the right blend of your personal style and confidence.

Some people begin to hesitate right there. By “wearing whatever you want”, some people claim they don’t have the right body so they have to hide behind something else and end up feeling worse. I don’t believe that anyone should be afraid to wear anything based on the body they were born with. This isn’t to say that you should flaunt your “trouble areas”, but to find the fine line of dressing proportionally and well for your body type.

Dressing for Your Body Type (An Overview)

1. The Right Fit.

This is the number one deal breaker.  If your clothes don’t fit right, you won’t look or feel your best.

2. Find a tailor or learn how to sew.

Remember that time when you saw something on sale you really liked but it wasn’t in your size?  You wanted it so bad so you bought it anyway, even if you were going to make yourself fit into it!   Nine times out of ten, you ended up altering it.

There should be no shame in altering your clothes. Everybody shops for a sale, but as we all know, sales don’t necessarily guarantee that everyone’s size will be there. Nowadays, that’s what most girls find themselves doing with their work clothes or jeans.  And you can always unpin it if you notice any changes later on.  Imagine how good you might feel if it’s a positive change.

3. Black minimizes and white maximizes

After remaining faithful to your workout regimen, you might probably want to show off one of your hard-earned assets. Try wearing white, pastel colors, or patterns  in this area, or any area where you want to be seen. Darker colors take the attention away.

4. Proportions.

Have you ever wondered why an outfit looked great on someone, yet you were not  too crazy about their style? It was probably all in the proportions.  Given the right proportions, the outfit is symmetrical – or balanced.

No matter what shape your body is, a good rule of thumb is to pair outfits that are in proportion with each other.  Peasant skirts are really popular now, but so are tunics. Peasant skirts would look better with a fitted top to balance it out.  Many tunic tops come in an array of beautiful patterns, so they can look just fine alone with a pair of jeans or bermuda shorts.

5. Always be Body-Confident.

By now,  you might have the right proportions, but don’t walk out the door with a fresh crop of confidence in tow. Otherwise, something will not seem right. You can’t feel and look your best without it, and without it, you can’t perform your best.

What do you Think?

Now that you’ve read my thought on body tips, I want to know your thoughts on body types and fashion. Do you swear by the old-school body style definitions or do you just go with the flow?  What do you wear that makes you feel confident?   Let us know in the comments!  Thank you.

Will you be there for the kick off?

Even if you won’t be able to attend the kick-off weekend, there will be still plenty of time to get a head start on Fall shopping. I know, I know. We’re in the middle of summer. But, the sales at Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale are too sweet to pass up to stock up on your Autumn basics.

Stock up on designer boots for under $100, which includes the Ugg Cardy Boot. Calvin Klein day dresses are cool and versatile for a work day that will only set you back just under $100.  And if you’re into hiking, now is the time to pick out that North Face fleece.   It’s a sale that is too sweet to pass up, and hurry in because who wants to pay top dollar nowadays?

You can also receive Twice the Reward points on all Nordstrom credit and Nordstrom MOD card purchases.

Until August 21st.  Don’t wait!

Photo Credit: Unique-Queen on Flickr.

You may have seen them at school, at the mall, or at a game covered head to toe in one label. They consider themselves extremely stylish, even though95.5% of their wardrobe might consist of one label: Abercrombie and Fitch, The Gap, J.Crew,  or Aeropostale. If asked, they probably couldn’t tell you what the latest trends were without consulting a mannequin designed by a store merchandiser. They think they love fashion, when really the mass-market retail world has blinded them to what real style is about.

Most people are like this too. And so was I.  One of my first favorite stores used to be A&F and the Gap. I used to thrive on them for my basics and cute summer clothes. I can still remember the familiar smell of that A&F cologne that lingered on my shopping bag when I happily carried my new purchase home. I felt cute and fashionable, but as I grew older, I realized how bored I was getting and decided to try my own style on for size.

This isn’t to say that you should prance right out of A&F or The Gap and not go back. I found some of the best basics at A&F and the Gap that I thrive on.  But, my point is, that if 95.5% of your wardrobe consists of only one label, I think you might want to recalculate.  You’re not dressing exclusively for you, you’re dressing exclusively for a brand. You deserve to show the world who you are by your own personal style.

Personal Style

Personal style is a freedom of self-expression and a glimpse into the story that is your life. This is why it’s key to take care of ourselves and consider investment pieces so we can help construct the very life that we wish to lead. This creates a signature “look” that is all you and all true.

Remember – It’s not a “look” to wear nothing but one brand from head to toe. If you walk around and wearing the same girls wearing the same brand in multiple colors, it’s time to really think about things and start expressing yourself through your clothes, and not someone else’s ideas. You can still wear your favorite Abercrombie lace tank top with pride or your Gap tank with pride, but when you wear head-to-toe labels, it almost makes you feel as if the store owns you. You wouldn’t let anyone put a label on you. So, why should you let your favorite store stamp one on your shirt and pants?

How to fall into your own personal style…

• Forget about brands!  When you visit the mall next time, resist the urge to check out your go-to store and check out another store that appeals to you instead.  Take note of different textures, colors and patterns, and have some fun. Don’t worry about the label.
• Go to Border’s and page through Harper’s Bazaar and American Vogue. Both of these magazines cover the latest in fashion and style. And American Vogue’s website (style.com) uploads the most up to the minute fashion pictures from the high-fashion runway. I’m not saying that you should shop high-fashion but just develop an idea of what the models wore and learn about proportions.
• Everybody makes mistakes, especially fashion mistakes.
• It’s really okay if you skip the latest trends. Who knows? Maybe you weren’t that much of a fan, after all. Most people who abide by their own personal style don’t follow the very latest in trends, but they just go with the flow and what works for them.
  

Pearls of Wisdom

Lastly, personal style is also about investment shopping. Remember that you are building a wardrobe that will live up to the story of your life.  Skirts are fun for going out, but in bulk?  Think long-term.  Can a micro denim mini get you the job? No, but surely a pencil skirt or a sensible pair of dress trousers with some fun accessories might be able to.

Beach totes don’t have to be boring.

Photo Credit: painlessthrill.

Searching for the proper beach bag essentials often inevitably follows searching for the perfect beach day. Here’s a list of some of my favorite seaside essentials, from amazing swimwear to beach reads that you can find at the King of Prussia mall for the beach this summer!

En route to the pool instead? Don’t worry. This list works just as well for you, with the added benefit of no sand in your bikini or swim trunks.

Sea/Poolside Essentials

1. An amazing suit.

As I cannot stress enough in my previous entry  (Category: “How To”  search for how to find the right swimsuit for your body shape), the right swimsuit can cover you up in the right places, showcase your best assets, and flatter your skin tone. If you still haven’t found the right one, don’t worry!

There are still so many selections to choose from, and as it’s July,  the sales will be flowing like the Mississippi at KoP.

Sighted: Bright or gypsy floral patterns  on string  bikinis and tankinis are as low as $10 (a piece) at American Eagle Outfitters (AE.com). Polka dots, madras plaid, and retro sweetheart halter lines make a sweet splash at J.Crew for under $50 ( a piece). Nordstrom will be kicking off their Anniversay sale on July 17th, so it’s worth a stop as well. All stores are available inside the Plaza.

2. Sunblock

Even if a swimsuit isn’t first on your mind, sunblock should be if you plan on laying out or frolicking in the tide. It reduces your chance of pain or looking like a mascot for Red Lobster.

It is best that the SPF (or Sun Protection Factor) should always be higher than 35, especially if you plan on laying out or swimming all day. Most people can walk into  and get away with one true sunblock. But, if your skin is especially acne-prone, you may need one sunblock for your body and a separate one for your face.

It may seem expensive at first, but remember – skincare is a valuable investment. If you can’t take care of yourself, who will?

Sighted: Bath and Body Works “Zero Tolerance Body” Sunscreen ($16) and “Zero Tolerance Face” Sunscreen ($16) The Plaza and the Court

3. Sunglasses aka “Sunnies”

We already know that sunscreen inside of our eyes isn’t suggested.  A pair of shades have you covered to protect against ultraviolet rays, accessorizing your outfit, and concealing dark circles after a late night out.

Sighted: I recently scouted out a variety of styles at Urban Outfitters from sweetheart heart-shaped frames ($10) to wayfarer frames ($10) similiar to the popular Ray-Ban Way-farers style at Bloomingdale’s ($139).

3. Sandals or Flip Flops

You might not even realize it, as you’re barefoot on the beach but you’ll be walking everywhere else – from the shower to the boardwalk. Comfortable footwear is a necessity and sandals or flip flops are your go-to choices. And the best thing is they can slip in and out whenever you want to dig your toes in the sand.

Sighted: Right now, gladiator sandals are making a huge splash and they work well with skirts. Plus, there are a few cute styles for under $20 at Payless.  For your all-around summer shoe, J.Crew and Gap is best for flip flops. As it’s July, J.Crew has a huge sale on flip flops. Most styles are as under $20!  And, be sure to stop by Gap as they now sell Haivaianas which is the next best comfortable flip flop brand. Stop by to see if they have your favorite style. All stores are located in the Plaza.

4. Beach Tote

A beach tote is exclusively yours.  And there’s no excuse to not own a cute one.  I recently sighted really cute totes ($4.95) and and satchels ($39.95) at American Eagle that can take you from day to overnight.

5. A Mixed Tape. Or iPod.

As you should never embark on a road trip without having your car tuned up and filled with gas, you should never leave without your tunes.  Tunes are your fuel for energy.  Here’s some of my summer favorites. Give them a try!

1. “Sundress” by Ben Kweller

2. “Summer Love” by Justin Timberlake

3. “Summertime”  by Will Smith (Perfect tune from a former Philadelphian!)

4. “”Airstream Driver” – Gomez

5. “Your Name Here (Sunrise Highway)” by Straylight Run

6. “Where is the Love?” – Black Eyed Peas

6. A Water Bottle.

Water should be as essential as sunscreen. You need to hydrate and re-hydrate.  Hands down, I love my Sigg Bottle.   Sigg Bottles are eco-friendly and are built to last for any lifestyle.  After all, it was dubbed “The World’s Toughest Water Bottle.”

Once you select the style that you want (there are so many), note that this will be the beginning of a meaningful and wonderful relationship.  (Just don’t start calling it a Siggy. It has a “tough” reputation to protect.)

Sighted: Kitchen Kapers sells some Sigg Water Bottles at KoP.  Otherwise,  http://www.mysigg.com sells them online. (Average price: $18-$25)

6. Beach Reads

You’re slathered in sunscreen and have a cute swimsuit to boot for it. You’re almost set for the beach. Almost. Don’t forget to pay attention to the one thing above all: your mind.  Snap up a good book along with you for the trip to nourish your mind and keep everything up to speed. After all, someone once said that the mind is a terrible thing to waste…

Peace, love, and seashells!

The young lady with the Big Brown Handbag

Like no other hair salon in the nation.

Photo Credit: KoP Mall

Six Flags Inc. (yup, the theme park company) has announced the second opening of Six Flags Roller Coaster Cuts hair salon.  It’s like no other hair salon in the nation, as it’s unique, which is fitting for it’s second location in the Plaza of the King of Prussia Mall. The salon aims to create a revolution that makes getting your haircut a pleasurable and fun experience.

After all, who said getting haircuts should be a chore?  You won’t when you step into this stylish, but family-friendly salon with son or daughter in tow. At the Shampoof Theater, kids can recline back and get their hair rinsed as they watch some of Six Flags coasters from point-of-view camera angles on television. Rollercoaster Cuts is also home to loveable characters such as The Wiggles and Mr. Six, who are always on hand to welcome every child every day.

Okay, enough about the kids. This seems fun for you to resist. And you can participate, with or without children. Each cutting station is themed and features coaster cars with flat screen televisions that features some of Six Flags newest and adrenaline pumping coasters.

The customized children’s salon packages also cannot  be beat.  There’s a package to fit every child’s personality:

The Glammy (Shampoof -shampoo-, Cutz – Cut-, Blowblast -Blowdry-, backstage VIP pass, with a photo and a Hollywood cape and necklace. Perfect for your little Audrey Hepburn or Grace Kelly fan.),

The Zoink! (Shampoof, Cutz, Blowblast, backstage VIP pass, and photo.  Don’t forget for your little Victorino Phils fan to prance out with his fabulous cape, sporty ball, and all-star jersey.)

The Big KaPow! (Shampoof, Cuts, Blowblast, backstage VIP pass, and photo. They also get to pick out a crusader cape of their choice, with a superhero or princess shirt.)

The BlamaJama! (Shampoof, Cutz, Blowblast, backstage VIP pass, plus two Jibbitz charms or two tattoos. Don’t worry, grandma. They are only stick-on.)

Also, if you buy five “haircutz”, your sixth one is on the salon!

Are you becoming a fan?

You might want to consider joining their Cuts Club to earn points as you spend on future salon appointments. These points are redeemable towards fun merchandise, Six Flags park tickets, and various Six Flags deals. Mention you’re a Six Flags Season holder and you can enjoy additional savings at the salon.

Six Flags one-day park tickets and Season Passes for SF: Great Adventure, SF: New England, SF: The Great Escape and Splashwater Escape, and Six Flags: Great Escape Lodge and Indoor Water Park may also be purchased at the salon.

Six Flags Roller Coaster Cuts is located within The Court of the KoP Mall.

Some people will gain a sense of appreciation for style from fashion magazines, window displays, and even from observing stylish people. I don’t mean to sound like a creeper when I talk about the latter, however, it’s sometimes nice to see how an outfit is worn on someone other than a model or a mannequin.

I like to see people who appear to take so much time getting dressed, or put so much creativity into getting dressed. It is people like this that makes a statement.

I wouldn’t be surprised if some of our dear KoP fans enjoy observing stylish people at the mall. But, what about the girl behind this blog who loves KoP too? Who is she and what is her style like?

Allow me to show you with this first post of “What She Wore.” It’s actually from Spring when the cherry blossoms were out in full bloom.

Sundress, Gap. Mint Cardigan, Gap. Pearl headband, Forever 21.

Credit: Flickr

Credit cards. Nine times out of ten, you were tempted to apply for one (or a few) during your escapades at KoP. But, you’ve may have heard stories about how some people love them and how some people aren’t too fond of them.

Many people don’t like credit cards because they tend to overuse them somewhere down the line. There’s a few sales here and there, or they just end up getting into the habit of using their credit card for everything – even when they don’t have cash on hand.

But, a credit card can benefit you much further than buying those pair of Manolos at Neiman Marcus. If used properly, the use of a credit card can help you earn and build your credit score towards much loftier investments (such as a cool house or a car.)

What kind of credit card should I look for?

Store cards (Banana Republic, Sephora, Bloomingdale’s) seem fun, and what’s not to love about carrying a card from your favorite store? But, store cards usually tend to carry very high APR ratings and if you’re used to paying off the mininum balance off, you’ll only be paying off interest and not much else.

The ideal credit card for most people would be a bank card (Visa or Mastercard) with a low APR rating.  And don’t even think about applying for an American Express (Amex) card unless you have flawless credit and can make the payment in full every time you use it.

When in Doubt,  Ask Questions!

These are more primal questions to keep in mind when you’re applying for your credit card.

1)  What is the annual fee, if any? (Be wary of credit cards that claim “no annual fees!”)

2) What is the annual percentage rate, or APR? (You can find the APR on your monthly bills. A decent APR constitutes to anywhere from 5 and 13%.  If you have a higher APR, try to get your interest rate lowered or pay off more than the mininum payment every month, otherwise you’ll only be putting interest down.)

3) What is the mininum payment required for each month? (This is usually 2-3% of the outstanding balance. If you can’t meet the full amount, aim for more than the mininum balance every time.)

4) Are there any other fees? (Finance charges, etc)

5) What is the credit limit? What happens if I exceed it? (Oh, but I wanted the Louboutins instead of those Manolos…)

6) What are the penalities for late or missed payments?

7) Is there a fee if I cancel my card?

What is my credit score/how is it determined?

A credit score is determined by your current financial activity with your credit cards.  This is broken down by the record of paying your bills in a timely manner (35%), the total balance on your credit cards compared to your total limit (30%), length of credit history (15%), new accounts and recent applications for credit (10%), mix of credit cards and loans (10%)

Credit Score Ranges

720-820 (BEST),  719-700, 675-699, 674-620, 619-560, 559-500 (Worst), 499-399 (Financial Risk)

Your credit score will be used by lenders to help determine if you are  good/bad credit risk.  There is a possibility to raise your credit score over time, which will promise better deals and save you more money.

I am not satisified with my APR rating. How can I lower it?

Use this script: “Hi, my name is ____. I am a good customer, but I have recently received several offers in the mail from other credit cards with lower APRS.  Will you please lower the rating on my card or I will be forced to cancel my card and switch companies.”

How can an increased credit limit raise my credit score?

Don’t get too happy.  This isn’t an incentive to prance into Bloomingdale’s.

When your credit limit increases, your credit utilization lowers, and you can see a boost in your credit score. Most credit cards will raise your limit after a certain time once your card has been in good standing.  Otherwise, you’ll have to raise your credit limit increase yourself.

I wish I had another payment due date!

If you have other bills due on the same date, it might make things seem very challenging or nearly impossible for you to accomplish everything at once. Call up the company and try to get them to switch your due date to a more convenient due date for you.

Uh oh! My bill was moved to collections!

Debt collection agencies can be frustrating to deal with. My advice is to pay off as much as you can and as soon as you can.  The good news is that you can get your debt erased from your credit card after it’s paid off in full. Just make sure you contact the agency about this, and get it in writing that it’s erased.

Overall…

A credit card can predict how responsible and mature you are with your finances. Shop wisely for your credit card.  Don’t buy things you don’t absolutely need – even if it’s a fantastic sale!  It won’t be such a fantastic deal at all once you factor in all of the interest payments over time.