Pretty Fix – Tie-Dye

Pretty Fix – Tie-Dye

Tie-dye has been creeping around the last few seasons but now it’s in full bloom as we get closer to transitioning from winter to spring. If this trend has got you thinking ‘heck no’ don’t be so hasty in your decision. I will admit you’re not alone if just the phrase alone has you thinking of a kaleidoscope of bright and bold colors or homemade kits with rubber bands and squeeze bottles of colored dye, but tie-dye has upped its game. Yes, tie-dye can still be bold but it can also be monochromatic with muted tones and soft colors. It can be fun, versatile – sophisticated even and can look good on everyone. There are so many options out there that I think the hardest part may be picking just one.

For this month’s Pretty Fix I decided to tackle this trend and put what I’m calling a sophisticated spin on tie-dye. I’m pairing it with some classic closet staples and then adding in another pop of color for some extra fun. I styled this look to be crisp and slightly minimalist just to show that tie-dye can be simple. Don’t be afraid to try this fun trend whether this is your first time around or you’ve done tie-dye before, it really is something everyone can rock.

For those of you who are new, you’re probably wondering what the Pretty Fix is all about. First, welcome! We’re happy to have you here. Second, the Pretty Fix is where I pick out a fun trend or two that you can incorporate with some classic closet staples. It’s a fun way to keep your closet looking fresh without feeling like you have to buy a ton of new items. I’ll then give you an outfit formula that you can easily adapt to your climate and lifestyle. I also provide links to similar items just in case you have any additional gaps in your closet you want to fill. Now that you know what the Pretty Fix is, let’s check out this month’s tie-dye look!

Tie-Dye Top + White Bottoms + White Sneakers + Colorful Handbag

1. Tie-Dye Top

Tie-dye is definitely having its moment and why not? It’s fun, it goes with almost everything and it can be colorful or more muted. There’s a little something for everyone and it’s perfect for going into spring. Think of tie-dye as just another print that you can mix and match into your outfits. For this look, I kept it simple and styled a navy and white tie-dye sweatshirt but with the neutral base, you could really pick any tie-dye top you like.

2. White Bottoms

While this look would style perfectly with a pair of medium wash jeans or even leggings, the white jeans just spoke to me plus they’re an awesome closet staple. I love the way they create a crisp look and they are perfect to finish off winter and head into spring. If it’s already warming up where you live, white shorts would go perfectly with this look too. White bottoms are timeless and once you find a pair you love, you’ll realize just how versatile they are year-round.

3. White Sneakers

Just because I’m giving this look a sophisticated spin does not mean I don’t want to be comfortable too and what’s more comfortable and cute than a pair of white sneakers? I’ve been wearing my white sneakers more and more and I love how versatile they are. If white sneakers just aren’t your thing you could also pair this up with a pair of taupe ankle boots or flats.

4. Colorful Handbag

Colorful handbags are super on-trend heading into spring and add the perfect pop of color. A bag of skittles provided the perfect inspiration and this orange handbag did not disappoint. The hardest part was picking just one color as I could see this look easily styled with one in Kelly green or perhaps a bright pink. Whatever color you choose to coordinate with your tie-dye, just have fun and opt for something that makes you smile.

5. Dangle Earrings

I usually keep earrings pretty simple and while hoops are classic, I wanted to pick something that had a little more to it since I wasn’t going to add a necklace. A fun dangle earring provides some extra visual interest without clashing with the tie-dye. There are so many great options out there or you may even have the perfect pair already in your jewelry box.

Bonus

If you’re still not sure about jumping headfirst into the tie-dye trend there are many other ways to more subtly incorporate it into your daily style. Below are some fun, but subtle tie-dye options!

Your turn! What item is your favorite? Will you be giving tie-dye a try?

Pretty Fix – The June 2020 List

Pretty Fix – The June 2020 List

For this month’s Pretty Fix I’m going nautical with one of my favorite summer trends, the sailor shorts! Don’t let the name intimidate you or think of this as a costume look. Actually the sailor short is really quite a classic that’s making a comeback this season. The main hallmark of the sailor short are the buttons going up each side around the pelvic bone area. And if shorts aren’t your thing, don’t worry! This button detail is also available in pants and crops. I’m also sneaking a second trend into this look but in a subtle way – ruffles. Now when I say ruffles I’m not talking about big 80s prom dress type ruffles but just a little something to add in some detail to the top. It can be as simple as a ruffled hemline or even some flutter sleeves. It’s all about these little details that add tons of extra interest to any summer outfit.

If you’re new to GYPO you may be asking what exactly is the Pretty Fix? The Pretty Fix is where I pick a seasonal trend and build an outfit around it typically using closet staples. Sometimes I do like to sprinkle in another trend as was this case for this look. It’s a great way to mix up your wardrobe and possibly add something fun to your closet. It’s can also help provide outfit inspiration for items you may already have.

For this look I wanted to stay pretty classic. I started with a beautiful pair of navy sailor shorts but found ones with subtle buttons to show that there are many options out there whether you want the buttons to be bold or a little more subdued. Then I paired it with a white top and neutral shoes. I knew this look needed some pops of color and decided to add that through a Kelly green handbag and some fantastic multicolored earrings. To finish it off I added some classic tortoise shell sunglasses perfect for any summer day.

1. White Flutter Sleeve Top

Ruffles can be seen everywhere this summer but sometimes there is such a thing as too much. That’s why I am loving the subtle ruffle of this white flutter sleeve top. The cut of this top is simple and flattering and the sleeves are a great detail. Plus this is also a great closet staple and will go with any color bottoms. Easily mix up this look by opting for a bright color top and swapping out the kelly green handbag for a white or neutral one.

2. Navy Sailor Bottoms

Nautical pieces are very popular this summer just as they were in the spring and these navy sailor shorts add just the right touch to any outfit. The button details going up the sides are really cute and I have seen them in a variety of colors. I chose navy for this look because it’s a great neutral and can go with any color top. I also love the white sailor shorts, crops and pants I’ve been seeing. Flip the formula with white bottoms and a navy top for a whole new look!

3. Neutral Shoes

You can never go wrong with a neutral pair of shoes in your arsenal. When I’m not wearing my white sneakers I love wearing my wedges. They are perfect for summer and standing at only 5’4″, they offer me just a little extra height to keep up with my towering family. And if you’re a flats girl, there are plenty of options that will work perfectly for this look and many, many others.

4. Kelly Green Handbag

If you’ve watched any of my Coffee Chats or checked out the blog before then you may know one of the items I was most excited about for spring was my Kelly green cardigan. To me, the color is just amazing and fits in perfectly with the nautical trend. Since it might be a little too hot for a cardigan this time of year, I added the next best thing to this look, a Kelly green handbag. It’s the perfect pop of color and the color is actually pretty timeless. If green isn’t for you, this look could also be styled with a yellow, orange, or even a white handbag.

5. Tortoise Shell Sunglasses

Another classic. I love mixing classic pieces with trendy ones. I feel like it’s an easy way to update my classic pieces without breaking the bank to buy a whole new wardrobe every year because who really wants to do that? The tortoise shell sunglasses complement this look beautifully and again, it’s a piece you can get multiple wears from. Plus you can pair them with brown or black accents making them very versatile.

6. Colorful Earrings

What’s better than one pop of color? How about two pops of color? It’s summertime and accessories are the easiest way to add tons of interests without adding heat so I say why not have fun with it! I love these multicolored earrings and because they have multiple colors, they will work for multiple looks.

Your turn! What piece is your favorite? Are you onboard for the nautical pieces or are they something that should sail away?

Pretty Fix – The April List

Pretty Fix – The April List

Hi Pretties! Welcome to this month’s Pretty Fix. To say life has changed a lot since the last Pretty Fix is an understatement. I think right now our priorities are more on being safe while creating new routines and habits that will also help us maintain our mental sanity. There are a lot of good resources out there and our pretties have not disappointed in helping to provide ways to keep us distracted as well as pushing us forward. One thing that keeps coming up as an easy and useful tool for helping us not fall too deep into a rut is the importance of getting dressed. While I know that being on-trend may not be at the top of our priority list, feeling good about what we’re wearing can still go a long way.

While there are many trends I saw for spring, the reality is that we’re leaving the house very little and while we’re home, there’s no reason we can’t feel good, look great and still be comfortable. This month’s Pretty Fix is all about comfort and functionality. That’s why I’m featuring joggers. I know some love them and some may not be sure about them, but with all the styles, colors and features, you’re sure to find ones you love.

If you’re new to GYPO and you’re wondering what the Pretty Fix is all about it’s where I recommend a look featuring six items to keep you on-trend. You can shop where you want to shop, I recommend starting with your closet first, and spend what you want to spend. What I love about this month’s Pretty Fix is that most of these items can be found in your closet and if not, you can easily make a substitution to make it work and make it your own.

 

 

1. Chambray Shirt / Denim Jacket

A chambray shirt is a great closet staple to invest in. It’s perfect for spring and fall. Wear it alone or as a light layer to any shirt. I love rolling the sleeves up on mine and adding a cute bracelet or even a wrap bracelet. For this look, you can easily sub in a denim jacket as pictured below or skip this layer altogether.

 

 

2. Hoop Earrings

Hoop earrings go with any outfit and come in an array of sizes and finishes. I chose a silver finish to go with this look but feel free to sub in some gold tones or you can even opt for simple studs if you don’t feel like wearing hoops.

 

 

3. Graphic Tee

I can’t say enough about a great graphic tee! This is something most of us already have in our closets and while I’m loving this pink blush color, any color will work with this neutral base. Whether you choose a graphic tee that has a picture, words or both, here’s a great opportunity to let your personality shine! If you don’t have a graphic tee, feel free to sub in any solid color tee or tank.

 

 

4. Neutral Crossbody

Since this look has a more casual vibe I opted for a simple crossbody. While I picked a pretty gray color you can also opt for black instead. And if you’re feeling colorful, a bright crossbody would also work. Just be sure to coordinate complimenting colors between your crossbody and your graphic tee.

 

 

5. Joggers

Joggers are really on-trend right now but more importantly, they’re pretty comfortable. They are available in a variety of fabrics and cuts which also makes them a very versatile piece. While they can be paired up with a flowy, half-tucked blouse and some cute leopard heels, the vast majority of us are opting for a more comfy and casual pairing. Think of Goldielocks when picking your perfect pair of joggers, not too big or they’ll look sloppy, not too tight or you’ll feel uncomfortable, but ones that fit just right. If you don’t have joggers or you tried them and they’re just not a heck yes, then easily sub in a pair of black leggings.

 

 

6. Metallic Slip-Ons

Another one of my favorites, metallic slip-ons. This is the perfect middle ground between the white sneaker and snake or leopard print shoes. When it comes to metallic slip-ons they come in a variety of ‘finishes’ so you’re sure to find one that you love. You can’t go wrong whether you choose a more subdued pewter color or maybe you like a shiny patent leather finish. And did I mention all the different textures they come in? If you find a pair you love they will be a closet staple you can enjoy season after season and year after year.

 

 

Your turn! Are joggers a heck yes or a heck no for you? Are any of these pieces already in your closet?

Pretty Fix – The February List

Pretty Fix – The February List

Hi Pretties! It’s Pretty Fix time again and this month I’m featuring what I call a trendy classic. I know, it sounds like an oxymoron. However, a trendy classic is something that you can wea year after year and season after season, but then, there are those times where it makes a big splash and that item can be seen everywhere. In this case, the trendy classic I’m referring to the houndstooth print! Although timeless, I’m currently seeing this print on overload in everything from jackets and blazers to sweaters, blouses, pants and even shoes and in varying sizes and colors. I still prefer the clean, classic black and white print because it pairs well with any color.

I have to admit though, I knew after seeing all the fabulous houndstooth printed items that this had to be February’s Pretty Fix, however picking what item to actually feature the print was harder than I thought, I love it all! After much deliberation, I decided to opt for the print on top. Even then there are many variations whether you choose a light blouse, cardigan or sweater. But that’s the beauty of it, no matter what your climate or whether you’re looking to dress it up or dress it down, the perfect houndstooth printed top is out there.

And if you happen to be wondering what the Pretty Fix even is, it’s my recommendation of six pieces you can buy to stay on trend each month. You get to shop where you want (possibly even your closet) and spend what you want! It’s that easy!

 

 

1. Black Trench Coat

A black trench is a classic closet staple that is perfect heading into spring and pairs beautifully with the houndstooth. If it’s still pretty cold where you live easily swap out the trench with either a black peacoat or moto jacket. For more options, this look would also pair perfectly with a black cardigan.

 

 

2. Pearl Earrings

This is another example of a classic that’s making a huge comeback going into the spring. Pearls are popping up everywhere again and I love seeing the different ways that designers are incorporating them.

 

 

3. Houndstooth Blouse

The star of this look is the houndstooth blouse. This particular blouse has a variated houndstooth pattern giving it a little more of an updated look and looks great with either a full tuck or a half tuck.

 

 

4. Bright Handbag

A bright pop of color is a great way to enhance not only this look but your mood as well. Winter can be a little colorless and sunless depending on where you live and adding color to your outfit can actually make you happier. I picked this beautiful red handbag because it made me smile. However, this outfit has a neutral base which makes the color pairings endless so choose the color that makes you smile the most!

 

 

5. Distressed Skinny Jeans

Distressed jeans are big for the coming season but the key is finding just the right amount of distress that you feel comfortable wearing. This particular pair has just a few distressed spots and none of them to down to the skin. If distressed jeans are not your thing, a simple pair of medium to dark wash skinny jeans will work perfectly!

 

 

6. Bright Flats

Just like with the handbag, this outfit is perfectly paired with pops of color! I love these red flats but you can also pair this outfit with a set of black or metallic flats or even black ankle boots if it’s not warm enough for flats yet.

 

 

Bonus: Additional Houndstooth Finds

What I love about the houndstooth pattern is that it comes in varying sizes, varying colors and it looks great on so many different clothing items. Below are some other fun items I found that carry this classic and trendy print!

 

 

Your turn! What’s your favorite part of this look? Will houndstooth be finding its way into your closet this season?

 

Winter Burnout – Are You Feeling It?

Winter Burnout – Are You Feeling It?

So how is everyone feeling right now? Anyone else suffering from burnout? It seems to be a recurring theme among pretty much every woman that I’ve encountered or talked to this week. I think a lot of us are just feeling really burnout right now. I myself have been going through this and usually about twice a year I get to this point where I just feel like everything is overwhelming me. The things that normally excite me, like getting ready for Christmas or getting ready for a vacation or whatever it may be, I just find stressful. When I wake up in the morning and feel a sense of dread, I know that burnout is coming on. That is why I wanted to talk about it today because so often we wear it like a badge of honor when it comes to always grinding, always accomplishing, always doing and doing and doing. We tend to hide the struggles that come with that and I myself am very guilty of that. For more details on burnout and how I handle it, checkout my coffee chat below.

Recognizing the Signs

First off, I’m going to tell you, I don’t have all the answers. I’m going to share with you what works for me and maybe you’ll gain some wisdom from that. I just want you to know that if you’re feeling less than joyful right now, that I’m with you in that and I am trying to rediscover that joy and know that it’s time to do something about it. Burnout happens as a result of this continuous stress cycle that we’re in. And stress can be good or bad. I feel good stress in my job. I don’t really feel a lot of bad stress. I love it. I love what I do. And that’s a good thing. But good stress can also be hard on your body, too. That’s why you have to learn how to close that stress cycle loop and really just take care of yourself and try to recognize that burnout is coming. 

As I said, I love what I do. I love my job. I can do it all day, all night. I have to stop myself, which puts me in a really unique position. I understand there’s a lot of people who don’t have that privilege or that opportunity, but it also causes me to overextend myself sometimes and to not recognize when I do need to take breaks or when I am starting to feel burnout. I have to really be aware of that and watch for the red flags and warning signs. For me the warning signs include the dread of getting out of bed, wasting time, being short with my family and feeling sluggish. 

How I Get Back on Track

1. Eating Better & Working Out

This time of year, I don’t eat the best. I eat a lot of sugar and I indulge and I love it because it’s the time of the year to do that. However, I also know that I’m going to hit the reset button soon. Usually after January 1st and I’ll start eating healthy again. But to compensate, I do keep up with my workouts and I try to stay with that routine because I know more than anything that that is the thing that is going to make me feel really, really good. I do my orange theory workouts three times a week religiously. I book them on the calendar. I don’t cancel with them. I keep that commitment to myself because I know that my workouts are going to help me to release any of the stress in my body and help me feel better.

2. Get Plenty of Rest

I get plenty of rest, too. This is a time of year where I don’t mind that I sleep in. I don’t have to get up early and drive Ava to school so I take advantage of that and try to sleep in a little bit longer than I normally would. All of these things definitely help to heal that stress response and help me feel better in my physical body and then help me to reset emotionally. I find, too, that when I do this, I gain tons of clarity about the upcoming year. So whether it’s sleeping in or getting to bed early, getting plenty of rest is important. 

3. Taking Time Off

I do my goal setting during this time of the year and in order to do this effectively, I have to really take a step back to be able to see things from a higher level. That’s why I try to take a little time off. Being able to step back from the business and step back from everything allows me to do just that and to set really big goals for the year both personally and professionally. It allows me to decompress and regain clarity. So if you’re able to try to take time off, time for yourself and step away for even a moment.

So if you’re feeling less than joyful right now or you’re feeling really exhausted and overwhelmed, then do what you need to do to take care of yourself. The whirlwind will be over soon and we can all step back. Honestly, my favorite week of the year is the one between Christmas and New Year’s, because I just really fully feel like that’s the week where I can take a deep breath and just really relax with my family. So we’re almost there. We’re almost to the finish line! I hope you had a very blessed and very merry Christmas and all the best in 2020! 

 

If you have any tips on burnout or things that have worked for you, don’t be afraid to share them below!