A: Oh yes, an occasion I remember very well! My best advice is to be yourself when choosing an outfit. You want to be as relaxed as you can be when you meet the folks! Being comfortable in your outfit will put your nerves to rest. If you’re confident in your appearance, you will be able to focus on the conversation and ditch your worries at the door. I put together a staple outfit for you to get an idea of what I would wear. This outfit can be dressed up or down as much as you would like. I included a few accessories to give you ideas of how to add to it.  

For my top I would choose a looser fit, muted color. Now’s not really the time to show off your flair for fashion.  If they are conservative and you show up in a hot pink dress, they might have an initially negative (to them) image of you.  We all judge people by their appearance whether we mean to or not, so why make it harder on yourself to win them over.  I really like the sweater sleeves as it adds a bit of interest without being overdone.  For my bottom I would wear a pair of leggings or even tights. 

I am a fan of wearing boots, like the ones above, if the occasion is more casual, but you can also add a bit of dazzle to the outfit, with these cute accessories:  

If you rather wear heels instead of riding boots, choose a pump. These glittery ones are not too overdone, but add a dressy element to the outfit.  Adding a cute bag like this studded one and a complimentary, but not too overdone, belt can also subtlely jazz up the outfit.  Don’t forget to jewelry! I would opt for hoop earrings as they are simple and classic. These hoops match the top, are very feminine and just the right size!  

Good luck, girlfriend! Work it, own it, rock it – You got this! XOXO 

– Violet  

Pictured Above (Left to Right):  

Sateen Legging in Black from Perchance Boutique
Snakeskin boots from Perchance Boutique
Sweater sleeve tunic from Penelope’s
Glitter Pumps in Black from Akira
Multi-Hoops in Silver from Juliet Jewelry
Studded Satchel from Krista K
Studded Black Belt from Francesca’s Collections

Q&A: Meeting The Boyfriend’s Parents for the First Time is a post from: Violet Revolution

A: Staying warm doesn’t mean you have to look like the abominable snowman.  If you can’t wait to catch deeper discounts just before spring, you can still find a coat that will work for you without breaking the bank, especially now during mid-winter when coat sales are in full swing.

I love this StyleLucie/Purple (I know, shocking) asymmetrical button down wool coat!  It’s too cute is too cute not to wear, and the price of $280 is too good not to get.

If you’re looking for a down coat this StyleJasmine/Red coat is a fab choice.  How often do you see a down coat in red?  Most are black, so not only will you be super warm, you’ll also show off your individual style.  This coat is currently on sale for $236.

This high collar wool coat will definitely keep you warm, and the detail at the collar/chest and pockets make it a stylish option to wear to work or casually.  This one is currently on sale for $237 at Soïa&Kyo’s end of season sale.

Hope one of these options can work for you!

-Violet

Q&A: 3 Coats To Keep You Warm AND Stylish is a post from: Violet Revolution

A: Dear Reader, thanks for your question! Here are three tips for your question:

1. Clean out your workout wardrobe! If you have had it a few years and it looks kind of frumpy, get rid of it!
2. Don’t fall victim to wearing old, sentimental t-shirts to the gym. If you are like me, I cannot part with anything that has a memory attached to it. Instead of wearing it to the gym, wear it to bed!
3. Get yourself a few, good quality, coordinating work-out pieces. It will be a life saver because they’ll be simple yet versatile, plus a great investment because you can wear all the pieces together, or mix and match them as it gets warmer or colder!

Take a look into my top picks of what to wear when working out. Each of these items will go a long way for your work-out wardrobe.

Items from Left to Right

Groove Pant (Regular) in Black/White Roses Print
Cool Racerback Tank in Heathered Power Purple Multistripe
Stride Jacket II in Coal/Black Roses Print

I love this workout look because it is realistic. Go with a black pant because this allows you to change up your color schemes for a top (plus black hides extra pounds). I like the racerback tank because you won’t feel as suffocated when working out, and will come in handy for the summer months. Finally, purchase a jacket that matches the pants. I like the grey jacket because it gives the suit a little more style.  All of these items can be purchased from Lululemon Athletica.

And because I am a big fan of Lululemon Athletica – Check out these accessories! They match that outfit, too!

Items from Left to Right

The Everywear Gym Bag in Black Roses Print
Slipless Headband in Very Violet

*All items from Lululemon Athletica.

How are you working out today? I’m thinking it is a stair-master kind of day!

- Violet

Q&A: How to Look Cute at the Gym (Without Trying Too Hard) is a post from: Violet Revolution

A: I always dread the winter season, and most of all, the cold weather it brings. My summer makeup never seems to make the cut.  But there are plenty of ways to brighten up that beautiful face of yours, even if it isn’t 80 degrees outside. My five must have wintertime makeup products are below.

1. Clean Tools

Remember all those hot summer days a few months ago? (I know, I remember too ) Believe it or not, your brushes are great for picking up the sweat, dirt, and oils that your face wash couldn’t scrub off.  Hidden bacteria loves to make a home in your cosmetic brushes. Purchase yourself a brush cleaner. It will get rid of any unwanted bacteria that could potentially harm that beautiful skin of yours. I recommend using Bare Escentuals ‘Well Cared For’ brush cleaner.

2. Moisturizer with Sunscreen

I admit I am guilty of sometimes forgetting to use sunscreen. Most of us do not associate winter with sunscreen but it is just as important as it is in any other season. Start using a moisturizer with at least a SPF of 15 to protect your skin from UVA/UVB rays. Check out e.l.f. Studio Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20.  It provides a lightweight, hydrating formula and will give you a bolt of color too! This moisturizer is only $3.00! Click the link to purchase online.

3.       Cheek Stain

During the winter, it is common to sometimes feel that your makeup is washing you out. No fear! Give Benefit Cosmetics Benetint a try. This fab product will give your cheeks a luscious rosy look. You can even try it on your lips! You will be beaming a ray of color in a matter of seconds.  You can visit Benefit Cosmetics at 852 W Armitage or shop online.

4. Waterproof Mascara

Ever been walking down the street on a cold day facing the wind? Did your eyes start tearing and would not stop? Yes, happens to all of us! I am a BIG fan of waterproof mascara especially when those dreadful “I swear I was not crying” tears make an appearance. Tarte Cosmetics ‘Lights, Camera, Splashes! Waterproof Mascara’ is a great product to use. Not only is it waterproof, but it gives your lashes volume and length. It is only $19.00 too!

5. Lipstick

Winter means Holidays, and Holidays mean parties, parties, parties! Lipstick is back, so use it to your full advantage! Choose a lip color that matches your personality and wear it proud. You will stand out from the rest of party-goers because of your confident lip color. I suggest Stila Cosmetics ‘Long Wear Lip Color.’ This lip-color will keep your lips hydrated and shiny all night long! I really like the long wear rendezvous lip color because it will match your rosy cheeks! Click to purchase at Stila Cosmetics online!

Hope these tips keep you looking vibrant these winter months!

- Violet

Q&A: Must-Have Winter Makeup Tips is a post from: Violet Revolution

Q: I just don’t know what to look for when shopping for boots. I have seen a lot of people wearing over-the-knee boots but don’t really understand how to wear them. Any suggestions?

A: This is a great question. There are many types of decisions that must be made when selecting the perfect over the knee boot. Here are 3 tips to keep in mind:

1) Select the proper shade:

In a practical sense, try going with a boot shade that may be worn with a variety of different outfits. When shopping, try to picture the handbag you’ll wear with these boots or the type of jewelry that you most commonly wear.  Matching your boots to your bag and hardware on your boots with your jewelry are two ways of ensuring a complete look.

Photo Credit

2) Lengthen the leg:

Over-the-knee boots are designed to lengthen the leg. Therefore, perhaps you don’t need a heel to create the illusion of length. Flat over-the-knee boots may be a better option, and may turn out to be more practical for everyday use.  If you’re one of those women who must wear a heel, steer away from a stiletto heel to avoiding looking too intense. Instead, opt for a chunkier heel.

Always be aware of your proportions too.  Wearing over-the-knee boots typically demands wearing a skirt or dress. Leave roughly a five or six-inch gap between the end of your skirt and the beginning of your boot creates the illusion of length.  If you are on the shorter side and the gap is less, opt for a knee high boot instead.

Photo Credit

3) Avoid boots that stretch:

Another problem with boots is that they tend to stretch—sometimes a lot. When purchasing boots it is hard to know how much or how little the leather will stretch. To avoid this problem ask the store clerk how the boots stretch. Many times the clerk will have a lot of insight to what other purchasers have said about these boots.

I once bought two of the same pairs of boots in different colors. Because I was in a hurry, I didn’t try on one pair and assumed they fit in the same way as the other.  Much to my surprise, when I went to wear my new black boots I could not get them on my foot! I went back to talk with the store clerk who told me that the dyes in certain boots tend to toughen the leather. Thus, a black pair of boots will not fit in the same way as the brown pair. Luckily I was able to return the boots for a different size.  I have since learned my lesson and now always ask in advance how the boots stretch!

Let us know when you wear your favorite boots!

-Violet

Q&A: If the Boot Fits…Wear It (Over the Knee)! is a post from: Violet Revolution

A: That’s a good question.  Do you really think about the outfit your bringing to a family event?  You probably just pick something that’s semi-dressy as you’re hurrying up to pack the day before.  What works about the outfits I showed you yesterday are:

1) Selecting patterns whenever possible, as with the first outfit.  All-over, multi-color patterns camouflage stains as well as help hide weight gain (or a full tummy after a big meal).

2) Not everyone likes prints, so what’s great about the dressier outfit is the high waisted A-line skirt.  The skirt cuts further and further away from your body, leaving you ample room on your lower half (Again, for big meals.  Can you tell I’m planning to gorge myself?).  If you’re pear-shaped, this skirt is also helpful to conceal your hips and make you look slimmer while still wearing a fun look.

3) Avoid overly warm pieces.  When I think of family get-togethers, I think of kids running around, helping my mom with dinner, etc., having a few drinks, laughs, and oh yes, a few helpings of food.  Any of these activities can get you overheated.  I’d recommend wearing a short sleeve or 3/4 sleeve top or dress (as shown in the lookbooks from yesterday).  You can always layer a blazer or cardigan over a short sleeve or sleeveless top, which can be removed if you’re too warm vs. sitting there sweating in a thick, cable-knit sweater.

Hope these tips help when selecting your outfit!

Violet

Q&A: Practical Fashion Advice for Thanskgiving Attire is a post from: Violet Revolution

A: This question was  a recent comment from our shared cranberry eyeshadow post from TheFind.  I personally wear a lot of metallic eyeshadows, and like to mix light and dark shades to highlight my eyes most.  You will need the following:

- a round tip eyeshadow brush like this:

- either 2 or 3 shades in the same color family.  One light and one medium for sure, and one dark if you want a more dramatic, smoky look.  It really doesn’t matter if you’re doing metallic or matte, the technique is the same.

- optional: a thin, small angled brush like this:

First, apply a primer of some sort to your eye lids to prevent creasing.  I’ve used Benefit’s f.y…eye nude eye primer or this eye paint by MAC.  Dip the round brush into the medium color, tap it a little to remove excess powder, and sweep onto the upper eyelid from the crease down.

Wipe off the brush a little bit then repeat with the light color, sweeping from the inner top lid outward.  You can blend them a little with your fingers or the brush.

If you have the darker shade, sweep that in the crease. You can do a few things here: like make a V shape at the outer crease over the lid &  just above the eyelashes, or I’ve personally filled this in a little more making a triangular or horizontal tear drop shape with the dark shade.  If you have the angled brush, dip this into the darkest shade and brush over my eyeliner on the lower lid to give it a little bit of a smoky, blended look.  This type of brush prevents the “I just slept all night in my makeup and did the walk of shame” look.  Here’s a tutorial on how to apply eyeshadow.  It’s a little long, but pretty thorough.

Q&A: How to Apply Metallic Eyeshadow is a post from: Violet Revolution

A: Although there’s some debate on whether jeggings are a fashion must or fashion faux pas; skinny and skinny cargo denim are still in for fall/winter this year.

(click on photos for where to find the denim styles below)

Also, due to the ’70′s influence this fall, flared jeans are also starting to make a comeback.

And of course, boot cut is a classic staple to have in any girl’s closet.

I still see shredded, jeweled and treated styles, but if you’re looking for a staple pair of jeans, I’d recommend a darker shade with no special treatments/designs.  Steer clear of lighter shades of denim.  Usually they have a way of adding on pounds.  Also jeggings and ultra-skinny jeans (these are jeans that don’t seem like they could possibly fit you looking at them on a rack, even though they are your size) don’t do much to hide any flaws, so unless you are in top-shape, stick with regular skinny, cigarette, or straight.

Q&A: Latest Denim Styles for Fall/Winter 2010 is a post from: Violet Revolution

A: I can’t really recall how I learned about the Jess LC Ambassador program.  Probably taking an online stroll through someone’s blog and noticing the Ambassador button, and clicking on it to find out more.  (You can find mine below on the right side of this site.)

I was really excited to find out the program was run by a local Chicago jewelry designer, Jess Constable.  Being I live in Chicago as well, and write about fashion and shopping in Chicago; I thought it was a great way to promote each others’ websites, and be supportive of local design.

Not like it’s hard.  Her designs are clean, versatile, and pretty timeless — kind of “wear with anything” pieces.  I also love that the different collections are named after streets in Chicago.  I think my favorite collection is the Diversey collection.  Something about the teardrop shape and because the berry color details are alluring to me.

I put together a lookbook of my favorites from the Jess LC jewelry line below.  As an added bonus of the program, you also get a lifetime 15% off code to use on the jewelry.  So if you love the designs as much as I do, want to get 15% off, and want to help spread the word about your website and the Jess LC Ambassador program, go here for more info.

Astor Dangle Necklace

Wellington 3 Tiered Gold and Silver Necklace

Diversey Lariat Paisley Necklace

State St. Ebony Wire Wrapped Necklace

Astor Waterfall Necklace

Division Chevron Earrings

Diversey Dotted Paisley Earrings

Jess LC’s Lucky 100 Ambassadors is a post from: Violet Revolution

Q: What do you think of one-shoulder tops?  Do you like them and have any recommendations?

Q&A: One Shoulder Tops & Dresses for Fall is a post from: Violet Revolution