vintage fairies dancing in cherry blossoms: January 2012

Russian Fashion!

Russian Fashion! by angelgem43 featuring suede pumps

Cashmere coat
fashion.1stdibs.com

Super skinny jeans
£45 - topshop.com

By Malene Birger suede pumps
$595 - calypsostbarth.com

Black clutch
$28 - rustyzipper.com

Aubin Wills ring
£20 - aubinandwills.com

Gucci sunglasses
£120 - flannelsfashion.com

Juicy Couture faux fur hat
£91 - vanmildert.com

1STDIBS.COM - MS Rau Antiques - Russian Cut Glass Chandelier
1stdibs.com

Russian Barbie doll
$189 - squidoo.com

Fashion to keep you from freezing

Okay, it's bone chill cold out, and nobody feels like dressing up when they feel like their toes will snap off. Instead of giving up and putting on Uggs and sweatpants the whole winter, try stealing styles from people who are experts on staving off the cold: Russians. In a Russian winter, you can leave a banana outside for five minutes, bring it back in, drop in on the floor, and the banana will shatter like glass. Also, cars have to be left continuously running, or else the engine will freeze. Staying warm is a top priorty, but that doesn't mean it can't look amazing too.

First up- fur! Fur hats, fur trimmed coats, fur boots, anything made out of fur is always warm, and stylish. For those uncomfortable with fur, you can go synthetic, as long as the lining is lamb's wool, which doesn't hurt the lamb, but has the same insulating effect. Coats should be long, from neck to knees, or neck to ankles, and boats should be above ankle length to ensure maximum warmth.

Second- heels are a must have, as they keep your feet out of snow- and when lined with lamb's wool or another plush fabric, they're easy on the arches, not just the eyes. Try a pair of boots with thicker heels if you're prone to toppling over, and make sure the soles aren't smooth, you'll slide all too easily on ice. (If needed, drag a fork or knife along the soles so they have some traction)

Third- Patterns like florals, houndstooth, and diamond shapes are used to give neutrals a new lease on life. Instead of being staid and boring, Russian clothes are bursting with color and patterns.

Finally- bright reds, greens, purples, yellows and blues are mixed with white, brown, and black, which isn't just street style, but it's also reflected in the architecture!

So when you want to banish the chills, just do as the Russians do: Pile on the heels, fur, and cheery colors!

Links!

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/parkhurst-sherpa-faux-fur-hat/3208999?origin=category&resultback=184

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/inc-international-concepts-coat-faux-fur-trim-belted-walker?ID=628539

http://www.welikefashion.com/p/10720-Boots_Edimburgh.html

http://www.warehouse.co.uk/rabbit-faux-fur-cossac-hat/All-Accessories/warehouse/fcp-product/305928

http://www.modekungen.se/en/jacket-russia-16564

http://www.zappos.com/khombu-russia-3-grey

The little black dress- updated

The little black dress has been considered a standard part of a girl's wardrobe for years, but lately designers have added sequins, glitter, lace, and other trendy adornments to this classic. While I'm all for glam, the LBD isn't supposed to be outright stylish, it's supposed to be versatile enough to be worn in all seasons, and last for years, updated with new accessories. It's really not a dressy piece, it's supposed to be cute and comfortable enough to wear while shopping, yet still able to be glammed up enough to go to a big bash.

However, if you want to update this look, you don't have to splurge on a dress with lots of embellishments, just change the color! Many people shy away from black, fearing the color will leave them looking sallow. If black doesn't suit your skin tone or your personality, try navy blue, dark gray, brown, deep greens and purples instead. The colors will be softer, but they'll still provide the slimming effect that black gives.

The little "black" dress should be sleeveless, so one can wear it in the summer, and most importantly, be comfortable. You shouldn't feel like the hemline is too short, nor should the dress be too tight or too loose. A shift dress is a flattering shape for most people, as it isn't baggy, but it's not constricting.