Outfit Formulas® and the 8 Pieces I Bought for Spring!

Outfit Formulas® and the 8 Pieces I Bought for Spring!

Hi Pretties! I have to be honest, I kind of struggled with this Coffee Chat. It’s all about spring style which totally makes sense, yet with everything that is going on, it sort of felt frivolous to me. Then I went on the Facebook Pretties page and started seeing that so many of you were posting that this is exactly the distraction and the diversion that you need right now in your lives. Everything is crazy, you’re working from home, you have your kids home unexpectedly, everything on the news and in your feeds feels depressing yet GYPO and the other Pretties are a welcome distraction. So for the sake of more distraction, I wanted to tell you a little about why I decided to change Style Challenges to Outfit Formulas® and also share with you the eight items I bought for spring. For more details, check out my Coffee Chat video below.

Style Challenges to Outfit Formulas®

First I want to start off by saying that nothing has changed, just the name. Our capsule wardrobe builder program is exactly the same program that it’s always been. I felt like it was time for a rebrand for a few different reasons. Number one, the term style challenges was always so confusing. I would have people say to me, “what’s the challenge? Who wins the prize?” It was hard to explain the program, the challenge was getting out of your comfort zone but that ended up not translating well with the Style Challenges name.

The second and bigger reason that I wanted to do this rebranding was that I felt like the Outfit Formulas® name truly captured the spirit of inclusivity that the program offered. Outfit Formulas® is just that, it’s a formula that you can adapt to your lifestyle, to your body, to your budget and to make work for you. I wanted to create something that really democratized personal style and that made it affordable for everyone. I wanted something where women could have access to a framework, a program, a system that makes it easy not only to shop for the pieces that she needs to complete her wardrobe but also to show you how to pair up the pieces and what to put together. I want you to have a closet you love because you were able to buy the pieces you love and that work with your budget and fit your body shape. There is no “one size fits all” and I want every woman to feel confident and beautiful no matter what. I just feel like Outfit Formulas® captures so much more of that spirit of inclusivity than Style Challenges did. So going forward, you’ll be seeing the name Outfit Formulas® instead of Style Challenge. 

What I Bought for Spring

Now on to the eight pieces I bought for spring. I limited myself to eight items this season. They were all on sale and I really tried to stick to a budget for buying new clothes because I feel like I have a really good base of closet staples already. If you don’t feel that you have a good base of closet staples, you can click here and download the Closet Staples Wardrobe Builder Shopping List to help you out. But if you do have all of these closets staples in place, then it’s easy just to add in a few new, fun trends which is exactly what I did. Check them out below!

1. J.Crew Factory Pink Pleated Skirt

This pink pleated skirt from J.Crew Factory totally took me out of my comfort zone but I thought it was just too pretty to pass up so I ordered it anyway. I’m really happy I did! I’m pairing it up with a striped top, denim jacket and did I mention it looks great with white sneakers? Trust me, it really does.

2. J.Crew Factory Nautical Striped Top

I’m obsessed with striped tops, but you guys know that already. I think at one point I had 15 in my closet. I find that every few years I need to upgrade or change out or get a different style. This striped top from J.Crew Factory appealed to me because I love these little gold buttons on the shoulder. They are very on-trend with the nautical themes you’re going to be seeing this spring. Unfortunately, there are a limited number of sizes left so here is a link to a similar shirt with the gold button detail.

3. J.Crew Factory Kelly Green Cardigan

So far this kelly green sweater from J.Crew Factory is one of my most worn pieces. It pairs up perfectly with a striped top and it’s just a nice light layering piece. This color is also selling out in select sizes but don’t worry, there are many other colors to choose from. However, if you have your heart set on a kelly green cardigan, I found a similar one.

4. Old Navy Pink Floral Top

After looking through my closet I realized one of the gaps I really needed to fill was floral tops. The only floral top I had was in a blue and yellow color palette and I really wanted something with some pink. I found this awesome floral top at Old Navy and it had just the color palette I was looking for.

5. Old Navy Olive Floral Top

Image result for Sleeveless V-Neck Keyhole Top for Women olive

In addition to the floral top above, I decided to bring this one home with me too. I haven’t worn this floral top yet but it’s a sleeveless kind of shell with an olive background. It has that pretty blush pink in it, too, which I can pair up with my next purchase. Since buying this floral top, I can’t find it on the Old Navy web site anymore but there’s still a chance you may find it in stores when they open back up again. If not I found a similar one that might work for you. 

6. Old Navy Blue/White Striped Top

Next, I added this cute little blue and white striped top from Old Navy. It’s got a little flutter sleeve which I think it’s going to be adorable with some white jeans or white shorts. I’m also going to pair it up with some colored denim. I don’t know what color I’m going to do yet but I’m thinking maybe a bright pink would look cute on the bottom with these. What do you think?

7. Old Navy Soft Pink Cardigan

This was another gap in my closet. I needed a new pink cardigan, so I got this open-front cardigan from Old Navy in a dusty pink color. I’ve also gotten a ton of use out of this piece. My favorite combination is when I pair it up with a gray graphic tee and my white jeans with my snake print flats.

8. J.Crew Factory Graphic Sweatshirt

Last but not least, I got this graphic sweatshirt from J.Crew Factory. Because this is such an in-between time of the year I was torn between choosing a graphic tee or a graphic sweatshirt. I have a lot of graphic t-shirts already, so I decided to go with the graphic sweatshirt. I like throwing this on with my boyfriend jeans and my white Adidas sneakers. It’s just a quick, easy and fun outfit.

*Originally in the Coffee Chat video, I mentioned they had this in a t-shirt as well, but it turns out it’s a girls’ size shirt and not a women’s. Whoops! Sorry about that. I’m going to post the link anyway just in case we have some pretties who can work with those sizes or maybe you want some mother/daughter wear. Either way here’s the link

Let me know what you’re buying for spring. I would love to hear what pieces you’re adding to your collection and what gaps you’re trying to fill! 

 

The Outfit Formulas® Spring 2020 Capsule Wardrobe is now available! Get 31 days of casual outfit ideas PLUS “dress it up” and “dress it down” options to adjust each outfit for every spring event on your calendar! Outfit Formulas® works for any age, any size and any budget! Click here for more information.

Style Your Budget: Outfit Formulas® Spring 2020 Capsule Wardrobe

Style Your Budget: Outfit Formulas® Spring 2020 Capsule Wardrobe

Life feels anything but normal right now. In fact, it is the complete and total opposite and as we all do our best to get through the next few days, weeks or even months, it’s so important to focus on what we can control instead of what we can’t. So what can I control? I can be here for you. I can help distract you from the craziness of the world and remind you every morning that even if we aren’t actually leaving the house today, the importance that getting dressed can have on our moods and our sanity. I can stick to my mission of providing you with simple outfit choices that make getting dressed the easiest thing you do all day as you figure out what your new routines are going to be.

With that in mind, I’ve decided that today I’m going to distract you with fabulous outfits at all different price points. I’m excited to share with you this month’s Style Your Budget featuring a look pulled directly from the Outfit Formulas® Spring 2020 Capsule Wardrobe! Now if you’re new here, Style Your Budget helps you shop smarter by showing you one outfit formula styled at five different price points. You may already have these items in your closet and if you do, yay, you can easily shop your closet! If you find that you have some missing pieces, then the different price points below can help you fill in the gaps.

While the looks below feature browns, creams, tans and taupes, the neutral outfit formula prompts can easily be switched up with shades of gray or black. Have fun with it and make it your own.

Neutral Cardigan + Printed Blouse + Medium Wash Jeans + Neutral Shoes + Neutral Crossbody

Now let’s Style Your Budget!

Option 1

Neutral Cardigan $17.99 / Printed Blouse $18.99 / Medium Wash Jeans $13.99 / Neutral Shoes $17.00 / Neutral Crossbody $16.99 / Hoop Earrings $9.00 / Short Necklace $14.99

Outfit Total – $108.91

Prices may vary by size.

Option 2

Neutral Cardigan $18.99 / Printed Blouse $24.99 / Medium Wash Jeans $21.94 / Neutral Shoes $24.98Neutral Crossbody $29.99 / Hoop Earrings $10.88 / Short Necklace $26.99

Outfit Total – $157.66

Option 3

Neutral Cardigan $69.99 / Printed Blouse $14.99 / Medium Wash Jeans $39.99 / Neutral Shoes $54.99 / Neutral Crossbody $39.99 / Hoop Earrings $7.99 / Short Necklace $5.99

Outfit Total – $233.93

Option 4

 

Neutral Cardigan $79.99 / Printed Blouse $23.70 / Medium Wash Jeans $45.00 / Neutral Shoes $88.95 / Neutral Crossbody $99.00 / Hoop Earrings $9.98 / Short Necklace $18.00

Outfit Total – $363.63

Option 5

Neutral Cardigan $98.50 / Printed Blouse $64.50 / Medium Wash Jeans $98.50 / Neutral Shoes $108.00 / Neutral Crossbody $68.00 / Hoop Earrings $28.00 / Short Necklace $29.99

Outfit Total – $495.49

 

Your turn! What look is your favorite? Is there a piece you can’t wait to add to your closet?

 

If you like this look and want to see more like it, the Outfit Formulas® Spring 2020 Capsule Wardrobe is now available! Get 31 days of casual outfit ideas PLUS “dress it up” and “dress it down” options to adjust each outfit for every spring event on your calendar! Click here for more information.

 

Spring 2020 Trend Scouting Report

Spring 2020 Trend Scouting Report

Hi Pretties! I’m so excited because I get to finally talk about spring trends. Over the past month, I’ve been dropping little cues and clues here and there about spring and what’s going to be on the shopping list for spring if you guys participate in the style challenges. I’ve been talking a little bit about trends with that, but I haven’t really gotten too in-depth yet and there are a few reasons for that. First, I feel like I didn’t really get a full handle on what the spring trends were going to be until the past few weeks. I’ve been seeing more stuff in stores and online and I’m finally starting to get a good vibe on what the color trends are going to be, what the pattern trends are going to be and what the silhouettes are going to be. For even more details about spring trends, check out my Coffee Chat below. 

Spring 2020 is interesting for a couple of reasons. First, I feel like the trends I’m seeing are actually more of recycled classics. We’re seeing a lot of classic pieces that we’ve seen in past spring seasons. There’s a lot of stripes and florals, also some nautical vibes and some boho vibes too. Those things are coming back but we’re also seeing some carryover trends from last year. You’re going to see some things from last spring and last fall but overall, I’m not really seeing anything that just jumping out at me and saying “this is a new tread for spring 2020.”  With that said, let’s jump into the trends that I am seeing for spring!

1. Color Trends

We’re seeing everything as far as color trends this spring which should make everyone happy. The past few years it feels like the color trends have been a little bit polarizing. Previously we’ve been seeing specific colors like Rust and Tobacco that were big in the fall and that was something that not a lot of people got on board with. We also saw a lot of bright yellow, which was another one that people were kind of on the fence about. But this spring, I’m seeing everything from the Pantone color of the year which is a pretty blue as well as poppy red and lots of pastels. Really pretty sun-washed pastels are everywhere! I feel like whether you’re a warm or a cool or whatever your color preference is, there’s going to be something out there for you this season that you’re going to love!

2. Floral Trends

Florals are everywhere, way more than normal. We’re lots of little ditsy florals. When I say ditsy floral, it’s a smaller pattern. I’m seeing not as much of the big, all-over floral pattern. This year it’s more subdued. You’re going to be seeing tons of floral options this year and if you don’t have a floral top, you’ll want to get one and if you don’t like floral that’s okay too. There’s plenty of other printed top options out there that you can substitute for it. 

3. Nautical Trends

Nautical is something that we see pretty much every spring in some form or fashion. I’m seeing lots of striped tops, and you all know how I feel about striped tops, but I’m also seeing lots of Kelly green and also all kinds of little sailor elements like little gold buttons across the shoulders or other little nautical touches. I’ve also been seeing different kinds of sailor pants coming back in style. Like I said previously, this is one of those trends that I’ve seen recycled for this spring.

4. Snake Print

Yes, it’s back for another go-round and snake print is really good for spring because it’s a lighter colored neutral. You know leopard has my heart, but snake print is, dare I say, more of a neutral because it’s lighter. It would pair up great with your white jeans or your blush colors or even other lighter color items. I think snake print really lends well to transitioning into spring weather. 

5. Olive

I have seen a ton of olive and khaki green in stores from tops to pants to dresses, you name it. I love all olive because it is a neutral. You can wear it with almost every pattern and color and it gives you a great alternative to denim. I dress casually almost every single day of my life and I get bored with my regular denim so olive is a really nice alternative to that. If you don’t have some olive pants then that’s something you might want to add to your wardrobe. I think they are a really good closet staple, too. If you have a classic pair, and by classic pair, I mean ones that are simple in design without a lot of pockets or embellishments, then you’re going to keep them for years and they’re not going to go out of style. 

6. White Sneakers

All right, so white sneakers are really big for spring. I’ve had them in the style challenges over the past few years and they are always popular this time of year. However, this year they seem to be even bigger and they are getting paired with everything! I’ve seen them with everything from dresses and skirts to you name it. So get yourself pair white sneakers, not only are they on-trend, they’re really comfortable too!

7. Denim

I’m seeing all kinds of denim trends out there. Everything from acid wash to high rise, wide leg, to straight leg, distressed jeans and boyfriend jeans. You name it, it’s popular right now. You really can’t go wrong with whatever denim style you choose. With so many options now is a great time if you need to update some jeans in your closet or maybe you’re still searching for that perfect pair of jeans or you just want to try a new silhouette. And don’t forget about colorful jeans too. I’ve seen bright pinks, light pinks, bright yellow, every color of the rainbow. They are great to work into your rotation every once and while to have something different. 

8. Polka Dots/Ditsy Patterns

I talked earlier about the ditsy patterns and I know a lot of people maybe aren’t familiar with that particular term. Just Google Ditsy Pattern and you’ll see tons of examples. In addition to the ditsy prints are polka dots. You’ll be seeing a lot of those smaller patterns in everything and they are just perfect for spring.

9. Denim Jackets/Utility Jackets

Denim jackets are a great layering piece and you can usually wear them indoors which makes them the perfect finishing touch to any outfit. You’re going to see blue denim but I’ve also seen white and light pink denim jackets as well. A classic blue denim jacket is also a closet staple that you’ll get use out of year after year. Not only are denim jackets huge for spring but utility jackets as well. I’ve seen utility jackets in so many different styles which is why I’m using the term utility loosely. They are that olive and green khaki lighter material but their styles vary so there’s truly something out there for everybody. If you don’t have a lightweight utility jacket yet, now is definitely a good time to get one.

10. Boho

We’ve seen lots of boho blouses and skirts and all kinds of stuff for the spring season. Adding a little something to your closet from this trend is an easy way you can refresh an outfit. Maybe add a flowing top or add some fun earrings. Especially if you have great closet staples, adding a simple boho piece can just enhance what you already have.

Bonus: Spoiler

I wanted to share with you a sneak peek from the Spring 2020 Outfit Formula’s Capsule Wardrobe and something that really tested my comfort zone. I saw this beautiful pink pleated skirt and while I loved it I didn’t think I would wear it. I decided to take the plunge and ordered it and I absolutely love it! I decided to pair it up with a striped shirt and of course top it off with my denim jacket. I even tried this look on with white sneakers and I love it!

Denim Jacket / Striped Top / Pink Pleated Skirt / White Sneakers

Your turn! What spring trends are you excited about? Which of these classic trends do you already have in your closet?

Outfit Formulas Spring 2020 Capsule Wardrobe

Coming soon! This capsule wardrobe features 31 days of outfits so you’ll know exactly what to wear every day this spring! Make getting dressed the easiest thing you’ll do all day! Spring 2020 opens up Friday, March 13th but you can get on the waiting list here. Check out how Outfit Formulas Capsule Wardrobes are changing lives here.

Spring 2020 Beauty Trends to Try

Spring 2020 Beauty Trends to Try

By Jessica Pigza

Spring is the time to remove the weight of winter layers and enjoy the beautiful new growth that’s all around us. I love watching the flowers bloom and hearing the birds sing again. It’s also a perfect time to change up my look, not too much though as I will admit I’m a creature of habit, and try some new things when it comes to hair, makeup and nails. I’ve been searching high and low to find what new trends we’ll be seeing in the coming spring and summer months and while there are some new ones, there are also some old trends reinvented for spring 2020. I realized that with any new season, the trends can be a lot to take in so I’m going to try and keep this simple and offer examples for inspiration. Remember, trends can be a guideline, but ultimately it’s important to stay true to you and choose things that fit your lifestyle and personality. In short, have fun but stay your wonderful self!

1. Hair Trends

The Cut

Spring is all about easy, low maintenance hair and embracing your natural hair whether it’s curly, thick or straight. Some of the cuts we’ll be seeing a lot of in the coming months include a blunt collarbone cut, a modern shag and lots of layers, think “The Rachel” from Friends. The blunt collarbone cut is also a universally flattering cut and length on most anyone. It’s short enough to be out of your way but long enough you can still pull back. But if you’re willing to go super short, the fabulous pixie is the perfect answer for the hot spring and summer months! There are so many fun variations of the pixie to choose from!

Photo Credit @beautyby_kaitlyn

Photo Credit @salsalhair

Photo Credit Getty Images

Photo Credit @thedeborahhigh

The Color

I’m seeing lots of shades of red this spring whether it’s all over color or just highlights. Brunettes are getting splashed with blonde in a look called dirty brunette and blondes are going buttery. Twilighting is also trending which is a mix of very fine baby highlights and ombré highlights for a natural look that grows out nicely and it’s low maintenance. I’m also noticing a lot of solid, all-over color from beautiful blonde to chocolate brown and of course, natural red!

Photo Credit @silosalon

Photo Credit @full.color.alchemist

Photo Credit @stephaniebcolor

Photo Credit @1kapper.nl

Photo Credit @luciano_colombo

Photo Credit @dwcreativegroup

Photo Credit @decapofrisor

Photo Credit @anthonyholguin

2. Makeup Trends

Makeup usually gets toned down in the springtime and kept fairly simple. I’m seeing a lot of cool pastel colors such as minty green, soft blue and lilac for the eyes as well as pink rosy cheeks. Shimmery pinks, browns and champagne shadows are also on-trend to keep eyes soft.

Too Faced Born This Way The Natural Nudes Eyeshadow Palette

Rimmel London Magnif’Eyes Mono Eye Shadow, Minted Meteor

Milani Gilded Pastel Palette

PYT Beauty Everyday Powder Blush – Exhale

Natasha Denona Love Glow Cheek Palette

3. Nail Trends

Purples, Pastels & Mixing It Up

Nail polish is the easiest way to incorporate the season’s hottest colors in the most low threat way. Pastels are popping up everywhere as well as shades of purple, creamy whites and citrus shades, ie lemon yellow, lime green and tangerine orange, which are all the rage this spring.

Chanel Longwear Nail Colour in Daydream / Chanel Longwear Nail Colour in Mirage

Photo Credit @stephstonenails

 

Photo Credit @mixandmatchnails

 

Photo Credit @stephstonenails

Dior Tra-La-La

 

Essie Spring 2020 Collection

 

Essie Blanc

 

OPI I Just Can’t Cope-acabana

Minimalist Accents

These are super fun and easy accents you can even do yourself! First, paint your nails using your favorite color and then use a metallic shade such as Essie’s No Place Like Chrome, and add in the accents using dotting tools, the small backend of a paintbrush or even a toothpick. You can also use tape to section off a small part of your nail and paint a single vertical or horizontal line going down your nail. Pick any contrasting color to easily add extra interest to your manicure.

Photo Credit @misspopnails

Base color – Zoya Nail Polish Laurel / Accent color – Zoya Nail Polish Purity

 

Photo Credit @betina_goldstein

French “Twist”

These are fun twists on the classic french. Instead of using white to tip your french opt for another color such as a pretty pastel pink or even mint green. Add some sparkle over top to make it really pop. For those with shorter nails, a minimalist micro french can be the way to go.

Photo Credit @julieknailsnyc

 

Photo Credit @naominailsnyc

 

Photo Credit @aliciatnails

Photo Credit @misspopnails

Ombre

This is a more color-coordinated take on the mix and match nail polish colors. Each nail has a different color but they all go together in a light to dark pattern. This could be fun to try in a purple palette.

Photo Credit @nailsinc

 Nails Inc. Anti-Decision Maker / Regents Place / Baker Street / Black Taxi

 

Photo Credit @oliveandjune

Olive and June HD / BI / SE / TT / BP

 

Your turn! Are you a creature of habit or does your look change with the seasons? What trends will you be trying this spring?

One Spring Shirtdress, Two Different Looks

One Spring Shirtdress, Two Different Looks

It looks like you all are just as excited for spring as I am based on all the amazing spring outfits I’ve been seeing from you! I’ve been on the hunt for new fun trends as I readied the spring challenge and what I’ve been noticing is that this spring is full of trendy classics. These are pieces that are timeless, pieces are that made new again from seasons past. One such trend that I’m seeing isn’t necessarily a style, but a color, olive green. Olive green is a great color for spring and it does act as a sort of neutral so it goes with so much! I fell in love with the classic silhouette of the shirtdress and while you all know I’m not a dress girl, I might make an exception for this one. I found this beautiful olive shirtdress at Walmart and decided to style it two different ways to show just how versatile this piece can be.

 

Casual Boho

Olive Shirt Dress / Tassel Handbag / Coral Sandals / Raffia Earrings / Bracelet / Round Sunglasses

The first look featuring this amazing olive shirt dress is more of a casual boho look with its bright coral sandals and tasseled handbag. It’s perfect for running errands or even grabbing coffee with friends. I kept the jewelry pretty simple adding the two-tone raffia earrings and shell bracelet. Then what spring look is complete with a great pair of sunglasses. I choose these round tortoiseshell glasses to finish off the look!

Dressy Classic

Olive Shirt Dress / Handbag / Brown Strappy Heels / Palm Earrings / Necklace / Bangle Bracelets / Aviator Sunglasses

The next look is a bit on the dressier side with this bright beautiful handbag and strappy heels. I went a bit heavier on the jewelry but kept the necklace simple to balance out the earrings and bracelets. Keeping the sleeves rolled up will show off these fabulous bangles. Finally, I choose these timeless aviator sunglasses to complete this classic look!

Are you a fan of olive green for spring? What look is your favorite?

 

 

Big thanks to Walmart for sponsoring this post and making it easy to feel trendy and stylish this spring!