I’m pretty sure my favorite thing about fall is watching the leaves change colors. I love it, even more, when those beautiful colors translate into everything from the season’s top fashion trends to timeless closet staples. There’s nothing quite like wrapping myself in a cozy cranberry cardigan and pairing it with some neutral olive bottoms. I love the rich fall color trends but I’m also surprised by some of the bright and even pastel colors that are leading the way this fall. Traditionally fall is all about the jewel tones but this year they seem to be taking a back seat.
Adding your favorite pieces in the on-trend colors of fall is the easiest and most low-risk way to refresh your closet. So just what are the season’s top colors? I recently checked out Pantone’s fall color trends from New York Fashion Week and compared them to what I found online and in stores. While the Pantone Color swatches are exact, because, well that’s what Pantone colors are all about, chances are you’ll find items in colors that are pretty darn close just like I did. Just remember to choose colors that you like and that like you back. If the color makes you look washed out it’s probably a good idea to try something else, something that when you put it on makes you glow! Below are my top five color families I’m loving this fall. What fall color trends are you excited to add to your wardrobe? What colors do you already have in your closet?
1. A Sea of Blue
There are a few different variations of blue in this season’s color palette. The first is a slate blue. This is a great alternative to gray and will complement most cool skin tones. Next, is my favorite. This color, specifically called Mykonos Blue, is like a more sophisticated version of royal blue. The last shade of blue is a darker, almost navy, but if you look closer it has a slight purple undertone to it. I’m even seeing lots of baby blue popping up so it’s pretty safe to say you can’t go wrong with blue this fall.
2. Bright Yellow
While bright yellow is on the list, I’m pretty comfortable with saying any variation of yellow will work for fall. From bright yellow to golden and even last year’s much-debated variation, mustard, if you like yellow and you can wear yellow then you should be rocking some yellow this fall.
3. Green with Envy
It’s easy to confuse this green with Kelly green or even grass green, but this green chosen by Pantone is deeper and richer. It’s just a color that makes you happy and while I traditionally think of this as more of a springtime color, I did find a green scarf that may have swayed me to believe otherwise. On the other end, olive, with its yellow undertone adds just the right balance to any fall outfit. And because it’s neutral, it can be paired with any color on this list. Olive pants are the perfect alternative to jeans but I also love it as the ever-faithful utility jacket.
4. Clay and chocolate Brown
Clay, rust, brownish red, medium brown? The shades in this color family go by many names but the results are the same. Fabulously warm earth tones that are perfect for fall! There are so many options in this color palette that it’s hard to narrow down to my favorite. I’m a sucker for a great pair of rich brown boots, but a camel blazer is also a quintessential fall item, and don’t get me started on all the amazing handbags there are in varying shades of brown. I’ve even seen it in a few pairs of pants that are really cute and would be a great addition to your fall wardrobe.
5. Pretty in Pink
More proof that bright colors aren’t just for summer! Fuchsia is sticking around and I’m surprised by just how cozy this color can be. There are some fantastic fuchsia cardigans but I’m also loving it in handbag form. The same goes for the polar opposite in this color family, a color by the name of Pale Rosette. This soft pink has warm undertones making it more of a dusty pink than pastel pink. It’s a great neutral and would pair well with just about any other color on this list. If you don’t like the way it looks near your face, try opting for a pale rose handbag, shoes, or even pants.
If you’re not already back to school, you’re probably not far from it. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or both, getting your ‘kids’ ready for this school year has been no easy task. Can I just say again how amazing I think teachers are?!?! Their job is not an easy one which is why each year I graciously look forward to helping them worry about one less thing, what to wear, with some easy back-to-school styles for teachers!
Recently I partnered up with Walmart to pull some amazing teacher-inspired outfits that work whether they are teaching in class or over the computer. Each look, complete with outfit formula, is able to be customized so they can feel completely comfortable. I also decided to add my own little Alison twist because well, I couldn’t help myself. Below are my back-to-school styles for teachers using some of my favorite fashion philosophies! Good luck to all our teachers out there and wishing them a wonderful school year!
1. White After Labor Day…Heck Yes!
Don’t pack your white pants away just yet! The old rule of no white after Labor Day does not apply here. White bottoms are a year-round closet staple. I know it may be intimidating to wear them and I get it that wearing them in a classroom is a whole other story. But, trust me, you’ll love how good you’ll feel in the perfect pair of white pants. For this look, I opted for these great boot-cut white pants and added a graphic tee because who doesn’t love a positive message. I finished off with a cozy black cardigan and some black ankle boots. This look would also work with a pair of black combat boots if you happen to snag a pair last year.
Black Cardigan + Graphic Tee + White Bottoms + Neutral Shoes
2. Don’t Be Afraid of Print and Color
Prints and color can seem overwhelming but they are nothing to be intimidated by. The right colors can even be life-changing. They can brighten your whole face. If you’re not sure what colors look best on you, try having a color analysis to find your absolute best color options. As for prints, they are a great option to add to your wardrobe. They can be subtle or bold, uniform or sporadic, just find ones where you like the placement of said prints when actually on your body. If you want to take it a step further you can try some pattern mixing. Just be sure to pair small prints on the top and larger prints on the bottom or vice versa. If you’re not sure where to start, start with a striped top, stripes are the neutral of the pattern mixing world.
Bright Blazer + Black Top + Printed Bottoms + Neutral Shoes
3. Taupe Shoes are An Essential Closet Staple
I can’t tell you how many seasons and years I’ve had my taupe ankle boots and I wear them ALL THE TIME! They seem to go with just about everything and a classic style will ensure its longevity. My go-to is a taupe ankle boot but flats work just as well. Taupe is a mix of brown and gray and sometimes can favor one or the other. A true taupe will work with both color options. I love the way these taupe shoes pair with the navy bottoms and compliment the dusty rose top in the below look. Just for fun, I added this great taupe tote, but note that the shoes and the bag DO NOT have to match!
Printed Top + Solid Bottoms + Neutral Handbag
4. keep it easy with One and Done Pieces
One-and-done pieces are my favorite when it comes to getting ready quickly. One-and-done pieces include rompers, dresses, and jumpers. I’ll leave the options totally up to you as to what you feel comfortable wearing in the classroom, but a cute dress, printed or solid mixed with some easy accessories is perfect for most classroom settings. Pair a comfy cotton dress like the green one below with some flats, ankle boots, or even some white sneakers, if your school allows, for an easy and comfortable outfit that will last you all day long!
Denim Jacket + Solid Dress + Neutral Shoes
5. Leopard is a Neutral
Leopard goes with everything whether you choose to use it as your main clothing item or you choose to add it in as an accessory. If you’re not sure, start out small, try a leopard headband, a scarf on your handbag, or my personal favorite, leopard shoes! They are the perfect pop to any outfit! For this look, I started with a monochromatic base and added not one, but two leopard shoe options. I love the little pop of leopard on the white sneakers but if you need something a bit dressier, the leopard flats are a great option. To finish off this outfit I chose a bright tote in red.
Solid Top + Solid Bottoms + Leopard Shoes
Your turn! What back-to-school outfit is your favorite?
A big thank you to Walmart for keeping us looking stylish this school year and for supporting small businesses like GYPO!
When it comes to the products we use on our skin I think we can all agree that we’re paying more attention to not only how the product works but what ingredients are actually in the product. The great debate now is whether to use a deodorant that has aluminum in it or to find one that is considered natural or aluminum-free. But do natural deodorants actually work? Before we get into that, let’s break down what a deodorant is and isn’t.
Deodorant vs. Antiperspriant
Deodorant versus antiperspirant, what’s the difference? According to Healthline.com, deodorant will mask the odor usually with fragrances. It also creates a more acidic base so smelly bacteria won’t take up residence in your armpits. An antiperspirant on the other hand will actually prevent the sweat from happening. This is typically accomplished by using aluminum-based ingredients to temporarily block the sweat pores. It’s also important to note that while most antiperspirants may also be deodorants, not all deodorants are in fact, antiperspirants.
Is Alumnimim Free better?
The great debate is that prolonged use of aluminum-based deodorants may lead to an increased risk of breast cancer. While there have been a few studies that investigate this theory, they have yet to cement an actual connection between the two according to the National Cancer Institute. The real harm may actually be in the synthetic substances called parabens. Parabens are a family of chemicals commonly used as preservatives in some cosmetics. Parabens include methylparaben, ethylparaben and propylparaben. Either way, the skin is our largest organ so it doesn’t hurt to pay extra special attention to what we are putting on it and what’s being absorbed into our bodies. One thing most researchers can agree on is that deodorants do not belong in your lungs so it’s best to steer clear of deodorant aerosol sprays.
How Do Natural Deodorants Actually Work?
Natural deodorants don’t use aluminum-based ingredients and parabens to help stop sweat and mask the odor so how do they work? Typically a natural deodorant will contain three types of ingredients. To help prevent sweat things like baking soda or arrowroot may be used. To help combat bacteria, natural microbial, like coconut oil or active charcoal may be used, and finally, some essential oils to add fragrance and mask odors.
How to Use Natural Deodorant
It may sound crazy but there is a right way and a wrong way to apply natural deodorant. In some instances, it’s necessary to warm the stick before use. Do this by holding it in your hands for a few seconds. Another method is to place the tip of the stick against your armpit for a few seconds. This also allows the stick to warm up, almost melt a little before applying. This is because ingredients such as shea butter or coconut oil occur in a solid-state. Trying to quickly swipe on natural deodorant may result in chunky, thick, or flaking application.
Also, it’s important to note that if you do decide to make the switch it may take some time and some trial and error before you find your perfect stick. Your armpits may go through a sort of detox when opting for an aluminum-free deodorant and this detox can last up to 30 days. Your armpits need to adjust to your new deodorant. The good thing is that there are now a plethora of natural deodorants on the market to choose from. We’ve polled the Pretties and listed their top favorites, plus a few others worth a try. So do natural deodorants really work? Are you an aluminum-free deodorant convert? What’s your favorite stick?
This was the number one voted Pretty fav, Native Deodorant. It comes in both men’s and women’s but most of the scents cross over to bother categories. In addition to their classic scents, they also have limited edition ones as well as multipacks available. This natural deodorant does have baking soda as well as coconut oil, shea butter, probiotics, and Magnesium Hydroxide just to name a few of the active ingredients. In addition to the Native Website, it can also be found at Target, Walmart, and Amazon among other drug store retailers.
Another Pretty favorite that received rave reviews was Lume Deodorant. This natural deodorant is baking soda-free. But what makes this different from other deodorants is that it is not limited to just your armpits. It’s able to be used on your feet and privates as well. How’s that for a hard-working deodorant? It comes in a variety of unisex scents. Lume deodorant is available on Amazon.
Also rated really high among the Pretties was the Tom’s of Maine brand. Tom’s of Maine comes in a wide variety of scents as well as deodorant formula types. Toms’ of Maine is available at Target, but to see their whole selection I recommend their website.
A few months ago Hey Humans deodorant in Lavender Vanilla took up a permanent residence in Alison’s beauty arsenal. This deodorant is aluminum-free as well as paraben-free and uses coconut oil, rosemary extract, and arrowroot powder as its main ingredients. It comes in six different scents and is available at Target.
Schmidt’s is an all-natural deodorant that comes in two different formulas. Their Signature sticks use primarily magnesium and some baking soda to help neutralize odor. While their Sensitive sticks are baking soda-free, using only magnesium to help neutralize odor. Schmidt’s deodorant is available on Amazon as well as Target.
2. Ursa Major Hoppin’ Fresh Deodorant
Ursa Major Hoppin’ Fresh Deodorant is a natural deodorant that has a smooth, gel-like consistency. Some of its natural ingredients include hops, baking soda, aloe, eucalyptus, and kaolin, which is a type of clay. This deodorant is available at Ulta and Amazon.
Made with a blend of natural ingredients, including sage and green tea, it helps prevent odor-causing bacteria from forming on the skin. Megababe does not contain baking soda, plus it’s alcohol-free, paraben-free, and goes on smooth & clear. It also has a fresh rosy scent. Megababe is available at Target.
We’re in that weird time of the year where it’s still summer but we’re already thinking about fall. The time of year where the weather can change instantly. One day we’re wearing shorts and the next we’re busting out our cardigans. That’s why for this month’s Pretty Fix I’m featuring a look that can easily be modified no matter what the upcoming weather holds.
This look starts out with, you guessed it, one of my Outfit Formulas®! For the initial Pretty Fix look I started with a neutral cardigan but opted for a sleeveless floral top and medium wash jean shorts. This is perfect for those days where it’s chilly in the morning or perhaps the chill comes in the evenings where you live. Either way, you’re covered. Still too hot out? Skip the cardigan and stick with sandals. Too chilly for shorts? Swap in medium wash jeans and taupe mules or slip-ons.
If you’re new to GYPO, let me tell you what the Pretty Fix is. The Pretty Fix is where I feature a complete look using one of my Outfit Formulas® that mixes classic closet staples with a few trends that you can add to keep your closet feeling fresh. This month’s Pretty Fix trend is versatility….and a fun floral top! Remember to shop your closet first but if you have any gaps, there are links below with some great options for each of the pieces used. Now let’s check out today’s Pretty Fix look!
Neutral Cardigan + Floral Printed Top + Medium Wash Bottoms + Taupe Shoes
1. Neutral Cardigan
This may not be anything you don’t already know, but a simple neutral cardigan is a majorly versatile closet staple. It can be worn for multiple seasons and is the perfect layering piece as we head towards fall. While a thicker one is great for winter, a lighter one will serve you well during the spring and fall. It looks great paired up with shorts as shown above but when the temp gets too cool, it pairs great with jeans.
2. Floral Print Top
Floral prints are still trending hard going into the fall and I’m loving the color combinations. They were great for adding detail during the summer without adding heat but also pair well with a cardigan. I am noticing some of the bright floral prints are giving way to more earth tones and rich color tones. Either way, don’t pack away your floral tops just yet. For this look, I opted for a sleeveless version and the ruffle details make it perfect to stand alone or work with a cardigan.
3. Medium Wash Bottoms
If you only have one wash of jeans, a medium wash is the most versatile. I prefer a medium wash that also has more of a vintage look than a bright blue look. I think that tends to be a more classic look and wash. Although high-rise jeans are super on-trend, medium-rise jeans are available so pick whatever rise you feel most comfortable in, not just what’s trendy. I’ve paired this look with jean shorts but a denim skirt would work too. When the weather starts to turn you can easily swap in some crop jeans or ankle-length skinny jeans. Now you’re prepared for whatever mother nature throws at you!
4. Taupe Shoes
Oh yes, taupe sandals, slides, and booties oh my! This color goes with everything and surprisingly does come in different shades. Some taupe shades lean more towards the gray side while others lean more towards the brown or beige color family. Again, this is a very versatile color and for this look, I paired some great sandals for the hot, summer version and then opted for mules in my fall version. This look would also work with some taupe slip ons or even some ankle boots if you’re feeling an extra cozy look is in order.
5. Neutral handbag
Another timeless closet staple is a neutral handbag. For this look, I choose a cross between a hobo and a tote but a crossbody would also work. While I went with a brown handbag, black would also work as would gray. It’s really just personal preference. If you tend to lean towards cooler colors you may get more use out of a black handbag. But, if you tend to gravitate towards the warmer colors, a brown handbag may go with more of your closet. Again, it’s all personal preference, just be sure to pick a handbag that works with your lifestyle and fits all the items you carry daily.
6. Drop Earrings
Drop earrings, statement earrings, call them what you will but the print and ruffles on this top add enough detail that these earrings are more than enough. You want them to complement the top without competing with it. If you prefer a smaller earring a simple hoop or even a stud will work as well. As a side note, don’t be afraid to mix metals. The rules of all silver or all gold don’t really apply anymore. Have fun with your accessories!
Your turn! Are you ready for fall cardigans or will you be holding on to the summer version as long as possible?
Can’t get enough Pretty Fix? Click HERE to see more!
You might say I’ve always been a bargain hunter. So much so that my skills earned me the nickname “Sarah Shopper” from my family. My favorite pastime as a child was sitting with my dad and pulling the ads from his Sunday paper and circling all the things I wanted to buy when I grew up. Now that I’m grown up I still like to keep to a budget and there are some great, easy-breezy summer items that won’t break the bank. Here are five of my favorite summer must-haves that won’t break the bank! In fact, all five are $30 or less so there’s budget left over to pick up your favorite iced coffee or margarita!
This dress is a comfortable knit and feels fun for summer but not too short or too young at age 44! The easy cut and fit make it perfect to wear to a casual patio dinner with my family or to throw on to run errands around town!
Post kids, swimsuits are a struggle to find. I want one that gives enough lift and coverage for my mid-40s and after two kids. However, I also want it to feel fun for summer and show off those areas I work hard to tone and maintain at the gym and trying to eat healthily. This Cupshe High-Waisted Bikini has a halter top which keeps everything secure and the bottoms have a bit more coverage in the back so I can still be active with my family and not worry about what’s hanging out of my suit! Fits true to size; I’m 5’8”, 130 pounds, and typically a size 4/small. I’m wearing a small in the picture.
I bought this printed geometric shift dress for vacation since sometimes evenings at the beach can be a bit cool. I love the fun print! Plus it’s easy to accessorize with simple jewelry, a pair of neutral wedges, and let the dress do the talking! I get so many compliments every time I wear this! This dress fits true to size, I’m wearing a small in the picture.
There’s just something about gingham that feels like summer here in the south! Dresses are such an easy way to feel pulled together and stay cool in the summer. I love to pair this classic black and white gingham sundress with cognac sandals or add a fun pop of color with shoes and statement earrings. This dress fits true to size and I’m wearing a small.
I love the ruffle detailing on this Cupshe one-piece swimsuit. Somehow the striped pattern and unexpected detailing keep this one-piece feeling young and playful while still providing a little more coverage on the beach. It comes in other striped color combinations but it also comes in solid colors and floral combinations which you can find HERE. Fits true to size and I’m wearing a small in the picture.
Your turn! What summer piece is your favorite?
Meet Sarah
This Modern Mamanista started as a young fashionista when my mom bought me a Fashion Plates drawing set and Superstar Barbie Fashion Face for my birthday in the ’80s. For work, I gravitate towards effortless chic and look for great jewelry and shoes to make my outfit. I’d like to think shoes, not diamonds, are really a girl’s best friend. For the weekends, I embrace my girl next door style with more casual-chic, comfortable pieces that take me from errands to kid activities and family dinners at our favorite restaurant or a concert at our neighborhood plaza. No lounge pants and slippers or mom jeans for this mom!
Do you struggle to put outfits together? Are you stuck in a yoga pants rut? Not sure if you can make the latest trends work for you? You’re in the right place!
I’m Alison, a mom of three and recovering yoga pants addict on a mission to make getting dressed and feeling pretty the easiest thing you do all day! Learn more about my story HERE.
I am so glad I was part of the Fall 2019 Style Challenge. It gave me confidence and so many great outfitt ideas. The ladies in the group were very supportive and I will defintetly be doing another challenge in the future.
Betty Weyandt December 20, 2019
I’ve been participating in the GYPO Style Challenges for three years now and I’ve loved it. I’ve always loved clothes, but I didn’t know how to put outfits together. My closet is now full of mix-and-match outfits, I have learned how to dress myself, and there is no more stress in figuring out to wear. The private FB group is full of wonderful ladies that build each other up. It’s so fun and is seriously the best group on FB.
Kirstin Rasmussen November 20, 2019
Get Your Pretty On has changed my life, seriously. I have always chased what is trendy but found from season to season, that things go out of style and I was wasting money on items that I would only end up wearing a few times. GYPO has enabled me to simplify my closet, helps me make smarter purchasing decisions, and I feel so put together and confident using the outfit formulas that are provided. This program is a GAME CHANGER. I've been following GYPO for a few years now and my only regret is not jumping on board sooner.
Michelle Kline November 20, 2019
Great community of ladies, helping each other look stylish, without breaking the bank, and using much of what you already own.
Chosen Faith November 19, 2019
GYPO challenges have been one of the best things I have done! It had taught me so much more than just creating a closet of clothes that I love but also to have confidence in myself, how to pick and choose colors that work for me instead of against, and had given a wonderful community of Pretties who are so special.
Maraline Freeman October 16, 2019
I love GYPO!!! I finally feel put together and stylish! The shopping lists and outfit combinations make shopping and getting dressed effortless.
Krista Probst October 16, 2019
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