Happy birthday to me. That’s right, I turned 40 this year. And in honor of nothing other than being alive, 17 people joined me in the Dominican Republic for a 4 day extravaganza. Aside from planning every waking moment, I had to put together an epic and fitting 40th birthday look book.

The key to creating this birthday look book was to re-style and photograph what I already had. Aside from my actual birthday party look, I was ONLY pulling from what I already owned. Economical and stylish.

Shout out to all of my friends and family that flew all the way to the Dominican Republic. It helps that my birthday is in January so everyone is looking to get the hell out of dodge. I was brought up right, so thanking my guests with a little, stylish gift was a must. I found these straw clutches on Etsy.com. Straw is my favorite trend right now, share the love!

The most important trick to packing right is to style full looks BEFORE you get there. This way you do not overpack. You need to create a (mostly) detailed itinerary of what you will be doing so you create appropriate outfits. I pulled out everything I might want to bring and then put together fully styled ensembles, accessories and all. From the bedroom floor to the beach!!!

We spent most of our time lounging around our fabulous, eco-friendly resort, so beach looks were important. I’m not one to just “throw on a bathing suit”, so completely styled sand/water-friendly outfits are necessary. I know you are shocked. From your cover-up to your hat, put your back into it. Looking fabulous all the time (especially when you are the center of attention) is a not an option.

I knew we would spend 2 of our evenings at the VERY laid back resort, so the option to throw on whatever was definitely there. But why would I do that? I choose to be comfortable AND fabulous all the time. It takes only minimally more effort, I swear. I always say that the difference between “just clothing” and an outfit is adding great accessories…..

We had one big night out so being over the top fabulous was in order. It is MY birthday after all! I picked up this 2 piece see-through gold cover up in Greece and definitely never thought I would wear it as an outfit ever again after that trip. I was wrong. I put my bronze bikini underneath (the look was see-through as I mentioned) and went to town, literally. It was a great moment when all of my friends were in awe of this crazy ensemble. Mission completed.

The final night of my big, 40th birthday trip was a dinner and beach bonfire hosted by moi at the resort. I wanted something ethereal. I called the look, “island born again chic”. I designed the entire look around a flower crown that I ordered from the resort. My mistake of not explaining what exactly I wanted the crown to look like became clear when a “drink the Kool-aid floral head piece” was handed to me. After my slight meltdown, my wonderful boyfriend brought back a huge pink flower to top off my look. Crisis averted. Best. Birthday. Ever.

Amy is Available for Online Styling Services

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Straw is everywhere this season. From bags to jewelry to shoes, it is a material to be reckoned with. I have been traveling the world (as I love to do) and from Greece to Columbia, straw is all the rage. 

So what are the best straw pieces for any gal to own? Well that depends on how much straw you can handle.  I’m privy to say that all your summer looks will pop with a great straw addition!

Panama Hat

The most obvious addition to your wardrobe should be the Panama Hat. It is a classic piece and will long out-run the straw trend. Not to mention this topper protects your face from the sun AND it adds that extra oomph that your look deserves. I’m typically not a “matchy” stylist, but pairing your Panama Hat with neutral straw earrings is chic as shit. Yup, I said it.

Earrings

Yay to a colorful straw earring!!! I bought this fabulous pair in Columbia for $35, yes, 35 bucks!! The beauty of these straw earrings is that they are huge statement earrings and they weigh NOTHING. So go big or go home, why not? They are such a fun accent piece for your look and definitely a conversation starter!

Crossbody Bag

My straw obsession is truly focused on all things bags right now. I might argue that getting a straw bag is MORE important than getting a Panama Hat. Might. It is the easiest way to incorporate the straw trend into any look instantly. There are a TON of straw bag styles on the market that are fun and flirty, I’m loving the messenger bag. They are typically pretty inexpensive making it easy to say YES to the straw bag trend!

Clutch

Another popular straw bag style is the clutch. Adding a colorful tassel incorporates your personality and steps up the neutral color of the straw material. I bought all those attending my 40th birthday in the Dominican Republic a clutch with a personalized tassel. I love this trend so much that I passed it on to 17 people!!!

Sandals

And finally, the straw sandal. What can I say but, “YAAAASSSSSSSSSS!!!” These are amazing AND they will go with almost everything. Jean shorts? Yup. Sundress? Hell yes. Sassy drawstring pants? Duh. Don’t even question this, buy them. I know I’m promoting owning all of these straw trend items, but that is because I seriously love them. Not to mention, they aren’t that expensive so the commitment will only sting a little…..

Amy is Available for Online Styling Services

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It is my favorite time of year. That’s right, end of season sales!!!! Don’t be shy, buy. As if you really need a reason, but in case you did, please see all that I listed below. You’re welcome.

Coat

A great end of season purchase should have several components:

A great price tag.

The ability to be worn for seasons to come.

Be a quality item. Buy splurge pieces.

 Puffer

A warm and cute puff coat is a must in anyone’s life if you are forced to live through a frigid winter. Why not get a great coat at a great price if you know your life involves future winter weather? This is your “DUH” moment.This Vince Camuto coat with faux fur trim was originally $400 but is now on sale for $280. Yes, please. Time to click and buy.

Boots

Another “Oh hell, I have to live through this crap again next year” item is a great winter boot. This pair by Aquatalia is water proof and is seriously the best cold weather boot on the market. You want to invest in your snow boots, cold and wet feet are NOT cute. Originally $650, these boots are on sale for a mere $386. Again, we are not looking for cheap, we are looking for a great deal. That means steep discounts off of GREAT quality items.

Purse

You will always end up using a basic black bag so why not purchase a super stylish one at a fantastic price? This designer Calvin Klein bag was originally $1290 and is now $645. This classic bag is your “everyday, for seasons to come, throw everything in, make your outfit look good no matter what” bag. If there is any item on this list that you should go for, it’s this one.

 Faux Fur Vest

Amy is Available for Online Styling Services

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Holiday party time is in full swing and that means sparkle and sass are appropriate for all ages, body types and lifestyles! Oh how I love this time of year, my inner 10 year old is able to come out and play. I deem December “sparkle month” because I can. 

‘Tis the season to LOVE all things shiny no matter what your body type. There is always a way to work in a sequin, shimmer or rhinestones during December. Check out the looks below based on your shape and go forth fabulously.

Skirt, Pumps, Blouse, Tights

Let’s work that hourglass shape ladies, shall we? The key is to ALWAYS highlight your waist. Be sure to tuck this shimmer green top into your a-line pleated leather skirt to truly define your mid-section. Add a fun, patterned tight with a rhinestone heeled pump to push this look to the top. You can always go a little further in your styling during the holiday season and especially for a party!

Pants, Jacket, Studs, Top

Well hello my rectangular friend. Keep that straight and sleek figure looking great in a modern women’s tuxedo. A cocktail dress is NOT your only option when attending a cocktail party. Think outside the box and choose something that truly makes you stand out in the crowd. Pair your tux with a sequin top and rhinestone earrings to push your party look to a 10.

Dress, Blazer, Pumps, Earrings

Inverted triangle have no fear, the holidays are here. Grab that sassy LBD (little black dress for those that need translation:) and re-style it for some holiday cheer. Add a touch of red to really pop at the party. Using a structured, waist length blazer adds sophistication to your look and compliments your shape. A crystal pump and small rhinestone earrings will elevate your look with just the right touch of sparkle.

Pumps, Dress, Blazer, Earrings

You are going to be the belle of the ball this December apple shape! Create a waist by choosing a waist length blazer to layer over your dress. As shown above, choose 2 different colors for your dress and your blazer. This only continues to highlight your “waist” even more. Choose a trendy (and super fabulous) mule to top off your holiday look. Why not add a touch of crystals and feathers to your footwear???

Tunic, Boots, Earrings, Clutch

Don’t think I’ve forgotten your my pretty pear shape! A great style for you this holiday season is a tunic dress. Not only does this compliment your shape, but it allows you to eat and drink until your heart is content. My kind of fashion! Change it up by adding a tall pair of heeled boots, not every party dress needs to be paired with pumps. A sparkle, envelope clutch is a perfect punch for your look AND works for any night out once the holidays are over. Re-style everything!

AMY IS AVAILABLE FOR ON-LINE STYLING SERVICES!!!

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Thanksgiving is closer than you think. Don’t let the ridiculously warm weather fool you, turkey day is just around the corner. I thought the best way to contribute (without cooking a thing) was to help all of you ladies dress fashionably for your body type. Thanksgiving style is about showing your family you still got it AND eating as much as you can. This requires certain style tips that only a pro can offer. Here goes!

Thanks to my fabulously talented friend Brooke Ahrendsen, I now have my very own body type illustrations to showcase awesome style for all of you! I will continue to refer to the 5 basic body types in upcoming posts. They include hourglass, rectangle, inverted triangle, apple and pear. One very important note, you are typically not ONE body type. Most times people are a combination, the key is to listen to my definitions of each body type and apply it yourself. You can do it!

Sweater Dress, Boots, Tights , Necklace

The first body type we will chat about is the hourglass shape. This is defined by having a small waist with a bigger bust and curvier derriere. An hourglass can be any size, from a 00 on up, the defining factor is your proportions. The most flattering styles for the hourglass shape are those that hug your curves. Do not be afraid of silhouette conscious items. This sweater dress will keep you cozy and warm all day while showing off what God gave you. The key to masking your over-eating is the knotted mid-section. It will keep your growing tummy camouflaged all day. Eat away my hourglass shaped friends.

Leather leggings, Blanket shawl,T-shirt, OTK Boots

The next body type is the ruler shape. This is characterized by having less curves and being fairly straight from head to toe. Less boobs and less butt with skinnier limbs. This allows you to love everything oversized!!! Ironically, the curvier you are, the more you look like you are wearing a garbage bag with oversized pieces. Go crazy ruler, rock the garbage bag style! On turkey day this is a primo option because it leaves you open to eat away. A blanket scarf shawl is VERY in right now. Pair it with funky leggings and a long T to be comfy and stylish all day long.

Denim, Scarf, Boots, Blazer

Inverted triangle here I come. Don’t hate your broad shoulders, embrace them!!! They make your waist look that much smaller. The key is to focus more on your tinier waist and legs. Embrace your shape by giving structure to your top half and being sure to crop your blazer at your waist. This accentuates your smaller mid-section. Adding a cozy long scarf will draw the eye to the center of your body which will elongate you. What girl doesn’t want that? Be sure to pair your blazer and scarf with a skinny pair of jeans to show off your gams.

Slouch Boots, Dress, Necklace

Next up is the beautiful apple shape. This body type is rounder in the middle typically with no defined waist and skinner limbs. This actually allows for pretty easy styling (trust me). The key is to wear a-line pieces such as the dress above. This literally means items that are shaped like the letter A. It masks your mid-section while showing off your skinny arms and legs. By adding a longer necklace you are drawing the eye to the center of your body creating the illusion of a waist.

Leggings, Vest, Blouse, Necklace 

Finally we have the amazing and talented pear shape. This lovely lady is bit rounder in the hips and bum area with smaller shoulders. Love thyself, I hear a curvier derriere is very en vogue right now:) The best styling tip for this body type is to add length to your torso. This can be done in a number of ways, one of which is wearing a longer sweater as shown above. I know you all might not be keen on the furry pockets (they are dope), so just choose a more basic option. You need to make sure this sweater is worn open, closing it will only cling to your hips accentuating your “pear”.