If you get your nails done regularly, you’re used to being asked what shape you’d like them to be. Traditionally, this has been a simple question of round versus square; but you’ve got so many more options than that now. Most require your nails to be on the long side, but if you can make it work, you’ll open the door to a vast array of nail options, from solid colors to intricate nail designs in all shapes and lengths. Who doesn’t want pretty hands? Here are four of the most popular nail styles right now.
Almond
These are rounded and a bit narrow with a very slight point, just like an almond. Perfect if you want to elongate your fingers, the almond shape is a balanced mix of sophistication and seduction.
Similar to the almond shape but (usually) shorter and slightly wider, the oval shape nail has been extremely popular in 2016. We think it’s because you get a long looking nail (and slender looking fingers) without as much obstruction.
This shape is aptly named, just like the almond, as they pretty well resemble actual coffins. They are required to be quite long to make the correct shape, but the end result is feminine and in style, so don’t let the grim designation scare you off.
The stiletto is like the yin to almond’s yang; a little edgier, a little darker. The stiletto is similar to the almond shape but comes to a sharp point. Remember seeing them on Lady Gaga back in 2012 and thinking they were just a bit scary? There’s nothing to be afraid of and plenty of celebrities have proven that on the red carpet by pairing fiercely-shaped nails with chic designer outfits.
While you may be waiting until Memorial Day to wear white in adherence to an antiquated rule that we think you should abandon – quickly (plenty of stylists agree) – you should feel no hesitation to sport some black and white. In a sea of pastels, florals, and brightly-colored stripes, stand out with a sleek and chic combo that stands the test of time season after season.
For some black and white inspiration to color your wardrobe this season (pun intended), look no further.
No Gray Area
Everyone knows you’ll never go wrong with a black bikini, whether you’re lounging on the beach or hitting a high-energy pool party. A black and white bikini will up the style ante a bit while setting you apart from the bright and patterned suits most everyone else will be sporting.
The L*Space Keep it Wild Jaime bikini is the traditional triangle bikini with a few twists. The reversible bottom makes waves as a solid or patterned piece, and the top ties it together with its lace-up style plunging V. It’s also perfect for photo ops against colorful tropical backdrops, or selfies by the pool – your choice.
Brighter Than the Sun
Pack your bags, take a drive to Palm Springs and channel your inner Marilyn Monroe with a pair of cat-eyed sunglasses, universally flattering and, in this color combo, infinitely simple to match with any outfit. In addition to its chic form, this pair from Stella McCartney is made from 50% natural materials, so you can go green while you go monochrome.
Compact Contrast
Looking for a tiny way to take part in this trend? A petite bag “charm” – fitting, as this fluffy charm from Iphoria adds plenty of it – is an affordable and uniquely simply way of splashing some black and white on your current ensemble.
Block Party
Nothing is more effortlessly stylish while being unbelievably easy to wear than the A-line dress. Flowing slightly away from the body, the style complements both curvy and straight-up-and-down body types alike.
The Maya colorblock dress from Alice + Olivia is a racerback version with the added bonus of smartly-placed black and white sections meeting at the narrowest part of the waist for even more eye appeal.
Black and White Down Under
The newest and most sensible style of beach towel abandons its predecessors’ four-sided rectangular frame for a form more suitable for sharing – a circle.
The Amaroo towel itself has a perimeter of fringe and a pattern inspired by indigenous art of Australia, where its designers, The Beach People, call home. With a diameter of nearly six feet, two plus Amaroo equals cozy sunbathing in style.
Precious Patterns
Alright, so it’s not exactly “blingy”; but natural patterns and materials, like the black and white feathers adorning the Serafina Josephine necklace, are still very much in this year. Don’t think you have to save this chic piece of jewelry for a festival or pair it with a peasant top. The gold hardware and tidy placement of feathers makes it more than suitable for a dressed-up ensemble.
While you’re there, pick up the Warbler earrings (also from Serafina), that will accentuate an updo.
Go for Seconds
Target’s collaboration with Marimekko is a win-win for you and your guests who will undoubtedly be wowed by your ultra-chic and of the moment place settings – while your wallet feels no pain. The line includes an entire array of dishware and serving plates in strikingly simple black and white patterns emblematic of the notable Marimekko brand.
Options to creating a look with a couple of black and white items, whether it’s for your wardrobe or your home, are boundless. Don’t overthink it; it’s one of those beautifully simple decisions where you don’t have to pick one or the other, because they work the best together.
Jewelry is dangerous, because you can never have too much. Before you know it, you have enough pieces to open your own boutique. The best part is digging to the bottom of your jewelry box and finding something you completely forgot you ever had. It’s like Christmas morning. It kind of feels like you’re going shopping at your own private store.
You love your feathered earrings and your lightning bolt ear cuff; and you swear you’re going to bring back the ‘90s with your favorite black choker. But what are the day-to-day essentials? We’ve compiled a list of the jewelry must-haves — the basic pieces that can complement a great variety of outfits and take you from the office to drinks to dinner. Here are the seven pieces of jewelry that every gal should buy herself.
1. A Sophisticated Watch
You don’t really need a watch anymore; if you want to know the time, you look at your phone. But nobody can deny the utter class and impeccable style of a woman in a beautiful watch. The market presents an endless variety of styles; you can go for a statement watch, something sleek and chic.
2. The Delicate Necklace
It’s that dainty piece of jewelry that you can wear with just about anything, from a cocktail dress to leggings and your favorite v-neck. It’s not much of an attention-grabber, but when people finally take notice, they appreciate its subtle sophistication. This Sydney Evan arrow pendant necklace is plain enough to go casual; but the rose gold and black diamond embellishment give you the freedom to dress it up.
3. A Cocktail Ring
The perfect cocktail ring isn’t just for drinks. Flaunt this day and night, business casual to your little black dress. It works well on its own; or if you’re feeling a bit more jazzy, you can combine it with rings on your other fingers.
4. Earrings With Attitude
Bold earrings that make a statement might not be an everyday addition to your ensemble; but you’ll certainly be glad you have them when you’re feeling more adventurous than usual. The Fantasque Drops from Anthropologie add a wonderfully vibrant splash of color without becoming overwhelming.
5. Hoops That Go With Everything
On the other end of the earring spectrum is your pair of simple, everyday hoops. Whether they’re gold or silver, you really can’t go wrong. It’s an elegantly muted touch that pairs perfectly with any outfit and hairstyle.
6. Something Turquoise
Whether it’s a chunky ring, stacked bracelets, or a dangling necklace, a piece of turquoise is another must-have in your jewelry box. The Serene Sea handcrafted necklace brings a special something to any outfit, with its artistic detail and perfectly flawed color pattern.
7. Understated Diamond Studs
Your collection of jewelry isn’t complete without a pair of no-nonsense diamond studs. Diamonds are timeless — they’ll never go out of style. And if you’re ever unsure of where to turn, head to Tiffany & Co.
We want to see your favorite pieces of jewelry. Share with us on Instagram, and don’t forget to tag @beyondwordsmag.
Being fit is about more than stopping by the gym once a day. It’s about leading a fit lifestyle, which means working activity breaks into your hectic schedule – walking instead of driving to lunch, hitting up a yoga class before happy hour, or throwing on a pair of tennis shoes on your way home from work for a quick jog.
Gretchen Rubin, a researcher and writer who studies happiness, calls this the strategy of convenience. She notes that “to a truly remarkable extent, we’re more likely to do something if it’s convenient, and less likely if it’s not.”
And when it comes to developing the habit of an active lifestyle, I’ve found that one huge inconvenience has always been wearing clothes that look great but aren’t really conducive to movement. About a year ago, I made the switch to a more comfortable wardrobe to better reach my fitness goals, and I haven’t looked back once.
Ready to become an active lady? Start with your closet.
Make Workout Leggings Look Great
They slim your legs, make your butt look amazing, and can be easily disguised — that’s right, you can wear workout leggings on the daily!
If you’ve never owned a great pair of leggings, check out Zella’s Live-In Leggings. They’re some of the most affordable, best-quality workout leggings that can easily be worn with a nice top around town or even out for drinks.
And if you want to spend a little bit more, there’s always Lululemon Athletica or one of these alternatives. Trust me: A great pair of yoga pants lasts forever, if cared for properly, and it’s totally worth the investment!
Layers Are Your Friend
There’s nothing better than getting complimented on your sweater all day when you know that underneath, you’re just wearing a sports bra. The key to outfit versatility is really all in the layers.
When I do go for a hike or adventure during the day, I can always take off my sweater, or even change into a workout top and put on a sweatshirt or jacket that I don’t mind sweating in. Then, just a brisk walk and swipe of deodorant later, I’m back in business.
Accessorize
Jewelry, scarves, and hats are the details that make every outfit pop — even one that seems boring to begin with.
Scarves are one of my favorite accessories because you can wear them all year round, and they inevitably add an element of warmth, texture, and color. Throw them on over your tank top and you’ll be ready for errands!
Jewelry never fails to glam up the daily grind — add some gold detail to your neck, hands, or wrists for a look that says, “I’m polished.”
Hats hide gym-hair and somehow just add so much personality, which is fun. Also, there are seriously new trends happening all the time in the hat department — this spring, it’s bucket hats!
Despite the glamorous appeal that travel brings, looking great while seeing the world is a difficult proposition. Furthermore, packing the perfect accessories for the trip can be just as difficult as the traveling itself. Why can’t accessories be functional and good looking at the same time?
Even after hours of flying, there’s no reason modern travelers should not look their best. Before you begin packing for your next trip, here are the five fashionable items you need to look your best, no matter your next destination.
SCOTTeVest
Vests are in season once again, creating a fashionable look for every traveler. With 18 strategically placed pockets, the SCOTTeVest RFID Travel Vest is the perfect outerwear garment that combines both fashion and function. With secure pockets both on the inside and outside, this unique piece allows those constantly on the go to carry everything they would ever need without sacrificing their look. If vests don’t fit your fancy, the company also offers a full line of outerwear for the discerning traveler, including cardigan sweaters, trenchcoats, and even hoodies.
The Scarf Multi-Tool
When seeing the world, it is always better to travel light with multi-functional items, than traveling heavy with those items you may never use. To this end, an oversized scarf can not only be a perfect accessory, but also a multi-purpose tool as well. The oversized Check and Striped Scarf from Zara measures more like a small blanket, but serves many different purposes. With a little ingenuity, this scarf can double as a handbag, a head cover, or even a fashion-forward tie down.
The Perfect Tote
Even with its multipurpose functionality, a scarf can’t always replace the fashionable function of a tote bag. Don’t pack your bags with more bags – instead, save space and time with the foldable tote! The Tory Burch Ella Packable Tote not only looks good, but can be folded flat for easy storage and transportation. When you need an extra bag, simply unfold and be on your way with a fashionable carry-all.
Your Personal Travel Blanket
When traveling overnight, the last thing anybody wants is a blanket that has been used by potentially hundreds of travelers. The Grand Truck Bamboo Travel Blanket offers the best of all worlds: a personal-sized blanket that is naturally soft, temperature regulating, and perfectly packable in its own case. As an added bonus, the Grand Trunk Bamboo travel blanket has a foot pocket – keeping you tucked in on even the longest trips.
The Minimergency Kit
After hours upon hours on an aircraft or train, there is nothing more many travelers want than the opportunity to stop down and refresh. However, when customs needs to be cleared and luggage claimed, stopping for a little “me” time may take a backseat. This is where the Minimergency Kit comes in. Available for him and her, these kits keep travelers looking great wherever they go. With everything inside under three ounces, the kits are TSA friendly, too!
In 1994, Jay McInerney called Chloë Sevigny the coolest girl in the world in a New Yorker profile, and the label has stuck. Equally loved by men and women, Sevigny has embodied the New York scene since she exploded into the public eye in Larry Clark’s Kids in 1995. Now, at 40, Sevigny has released a beautiful “fan girl” scrapbook from Rizzoli chronicling her days from a teen Sassy magazine model, to her critically acclaimed performance in Boys Don’t Cry, and her enormous success as fashion muse to designers like Marc Jacobs and Miu Miu. “I kind of wanted it to be an art fan-book, if I dare say that,” Sevigny explained to Rolling Stone. “I didn’t want it to be too high-fashion or to be just a stylebook. Mainly, I wanted it to have a vibe.”
Here are our favorite Sevigny forever moments.
Sassy Magazine
The world was introduced to Sevigny through her internship at Sassy magazine in 1992. Realizing perhaps they had a burgeoning “it” girl on their hands, Sevigny modeled for Sassy in what has become an iconic photoshoot of 90s girl style. At the time, Sassy EIC said of Chloë, “I didn’t know what [Chloë] was going to do,” she told Opening Ceremony. “But I knew it was going to be something, because when you have that kind of unique vision and you have the work ethic to back it up, you’re going to go somewhere.”
Kids
Sevigny met Harmony Korine in Washington Square Park during her senior year of high school, and the two became a couple, leading to her being cast in Kids—written by Korine and directed by Larry Clark. Though she had absolutely no acting experience, Sevigny’s performance was praised and she was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award, jumpstarting her acting career.
Standing Next to Kate Moss Like a Boss
As muse to many designers, Sevigny found herself as a model for the Miu Miu show in 1995. A photo of her and supermodel Kate Moss was used as the invitation for their next show. The photo has become iconic. In a later interview with Lily McMenamy, Sevigny said she felt awkward standing next to Moss, who strikes a much sexier pose—but we think she’s holding her own.
In 1999, Chloë starred in Boys Don’t Cry, the story of Brandon Teena, for which Hillary Swank won the Oscar and Sevigny was nominated for Best Supporting Actress. Her critically acclaimed performance solidified her status as an A-list actress and, also, her lesbian appeal. The following year she was cast as Michelle Williams’ motorcycle-riding lover in If These Walls Could Talk 2, making straight women everywhere question their sexuality.
No commentary necessary
Imitation is the Sincerest Form of Flattery
You know you’ve become part of the fabric of pop culture when a YouTube parody of you appears on the Internet.
Brown Bunny Controversy
No shrinking violet when it comes to nudity and sexual content, Sevigny starred in the controversial 2003 film, The Brown Bunny, with then boyfriend Vincent Gallo. The finale includes an intense scene of fellatio, leading to many a theory that the oral sex was not simulated. Due to its pornographic nature, Sevigny lost her agent, but she stood by the film, telling The Insider, “It’s a shame people write so many things when they haven’t seen it. When you see the film, it makes more sense. It’s an art film. It should be playing in museums. It’s like an Andy Warhol movie.”
Polygamist Chic
When you think of Chloë Sevigny, obviously the first thing you think is sister wife, right? Obviously. We love that the producers of HBO imagined Sevigny in full-on polygamist garb, casting her as Nicolette Grant in Big Love. She played the role from 2006-2011, winning a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress in 2010.
New Yorker til Death
“I’m not cold. I hate LA; I hate driving . . . OK it’s freezing. But I’m never moving to LA.”
Break out from the same old boring costumes this year with some alternative looks for Halloween. This month we take cues from stylist Lindsey Barrow, founder of the Stylekind movement, dedicated to bringing community together through style and awareness. A native of Louisiana, Lindsey styles wardrobes for fashion shoots and personal clients. We asked her to share some style tips for Halloween festivities.
What should we keep in mind this Halloween?
I’m a strong supporter of stylish looking costumes but especially experimenting with non-traditional looks as a “costume.” So this year, I’m seeking out some key trending pieces that will also work double time as fall to winter wardrobe pieces. I’m a huge believer in using items that are versatile enough for use on more than just one day.
Any ideas?
I think Halloween parties can do without another too-short nurse costume. I think the most stylish costumes are the ones that keep kitsch at a minimum, and are more about a look rather than a character.
My best friend and I have this ongoing Halloween challenge. We’ll take an occupation or hobby that should not be sexy like bird-watching or cat collecting and turn it into a costume that is surprisingly awesome! I still remember hunting down my dad’s best pair of binoculars and pinning fake birds all over my bestie. Those are the best kinds of ideas.
Trends like the exposed-sock look are really hot these days. Finding a great oxford loafer perhaps and pairing it with an interesting sock could be a great costume foundation.
Another textile that’s almost always found in thrift stores is velvet. A velvet vest, or skirt can start your base for a Renaissance style costume, or even Game of Thrones characters.
Of course, vintage fur is the only piece you need for a range of flashback costumes. Or you can even re-invent its use by going as a “millennial.” Find a retro t-shirt (Greenpeace would be ideal!), accessorize with your mug of kombucha, and add a finishing detail of statement-making vintage fur.
What’s your general style advice to your clients?
Really want to know? I’m trying to get everyone to invest in fewer things. Which I think is good because a lot of fashion is embracing this minimalist thinking. Ideas like seasonally pruning your wardrobe, filling in and shopping with small designers, vintage stores, or Etsy shops, all add up to a smaller carbon footprint. And even though I know minimalist lifestyles are not for everyone, I do believe downsizing really helps out with that whole decision-making process of being stylishly dressed.
Keep up with Lindsey and her vintage finds and costume looks at her website and Etsy shop www.lindseybarrow.com and style on!
A lifestyle magazine inspired by author Sylvia Day