No matter how many years it’s been since I was in school I just can’t quit that internal seasonal shift – summer begins when school is out! As the school year winds up all over the country I think it’s safe to say that summer has arrived and with that, it’s time for another Style Your Budget post! If you’re new around here, Style Your Budget helps you shop smarter by showing you one outfit prompt styled at five drastically different price points.
One of the things that makes Style Challenges work so well is that we don’t provide you with the clothes. That may sound like a bad thing at first, but I promise it isn’t. By providing you with a style prompt rather than a box of clothes, you get to decide what the outfit ultimately looks like (and how much it costs).
If you already own all the pieces in the prompt you can shop your closet for a free outfit. Woohoo! However, if you need to fill in a gap in your wardrobe you get to choose which store, and more importantly how much you are going to spend, to fill in that gap.
This look is from the Style Challenges Summer 2019 Capsule Wardrobe. Bright accessories paired with closet staples are my favorite kind of outfits that are stylish for summer without adding tons of layers (aka heat) — check out my recent YouTube video for more summer outfit tips. Building a cohesive and affordable casual wardrobe doesn’t have to be tricky and Style Challenges is here to help. It’s as easy as 1-2-3… we promise! 1. I give you a shopping list so you’ll know exactly what you need. 2. Check off your list by shopping your closet or using my recommendations. 3. You’ll get a complete guide of daily outfit ideas using the pieces from your list. It’s that easy!
If you’re looking for some investment quality designer sunglasses, I highly recommend checking out SmartBuyGlasses!
We always recommend investing in the best quality that your budget allows when it comes to your closet staples. However, if you are trying out new trends, fluctuating between sizes, or need a more budget-conscious option we hope this post has helped you see that you truly can feel confident in what you are wearing no matter where you shop or how much you can afford to spend.
It’s Your Turn:
What version of this Summer outfit is your favorite?
You’ll have access to this outfit plus 30 more immediately upon signing up for the Style Challenges Summer 2019 Capsule Wardrobe. Make getting dressed this summer the easiest thing you’ll do all day! Check out how the Style Challenge is changing lives here.
Wedding season is here and chances are most of us have at least one wedding to attend this summer if not more. Weddings are fun, romantic and a perfect time to step beyond our daily attire and really dress things up. But that doesn’t mean you can’t use some closet staples to either dress it up or dress it down depending on the vibe of the wedding.
With a few simple changes, you can give most dresses dual purpose. Whether it’s a backyard wedding or something more formal, these wedding basics are sure to help you look and feel your best. Below I’ve taken some versatile dresses and paired them with some closet staples, as well as paired some closet staple dresses with some fun trends. The possibilities are endless and they’re sure to keep you looking fresh and new no matter how many weddings you’ll attend this summer.
Casual Wedding
For a more casual wedding atmosphere, most dresses can be dressed down with a neutral cardigan or even a denim jacket depending on how dressed down you want to go. Select a pair of flats or low wedges and add some simple jewelry. You can finish off the look with a small wristlet or clutch. Check out some of these casual looks below.
For a classic wedding look, I suggest either going for a simple dress and opt for jewelry that’s has a little more sparkle or choose a dress that has more interest in design and wear jewelry that is more on the dainty side. You can also either add the cardigan or subtract it depending on your dress. If your dress is a bit on the fancy side, I recommend adding the cardigan to tone it down. Check out the below style combinations.
Typically weddings held in the evening are considered to be a bit more formal so for this look lose the cardigan and add a delicate shawl or scarf to create a softer look. Then amp up your jewelry with something that sparkles and add a statement necklace. Shop your closet for a strappy heel that’s either metallic, nude or even a print and finish off with a small clutch.
This is my take on the little black dress, the black jumpsuit! This can easily be dressed up or dressed down, perfect for any age or size and a fantastic option if you don’t feel like wearing a dress.
Want some more dress options? The dresses below will pair up well with any of the accessory combinations shown above and I’ve also included a few maternity dresses for our lovely ladies that may be expecting this summer. As always, don’t forget to shop your closet first, you may be surprised by what you may find! Now it’s time to toast the happy couple!
Once again, Pretty Fix is back by popular demand! I didn’t realize just how much you loved this feature, but your requests to bring it back have been so overwhelming that they couldn’t be ignored! For those of you who are new to GYPO you’re probably asking, ‘What is a Pretty Fix?” The Pretty Fix is my recommendation of five 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! The idea for it was born out of your dissatisfaction with the quality and price of some of the box styling services out there. While there are those that swear by them, there are also those who just can’t seem to win with them. That’s where the Pretty Fix comes in.
In this Pretty Fix, I’m showcasing one of the big trends I’ve seen taking over this summer, snake print! This neutral pattern is popping up on everything from shoes to earrings and everything in between. And yes, you did hear me right, snake print is considered a neutral so don’t be afraid to pair it with color!
This white eyelet dress is a classic closet staple that just screams ‘bring on summer!’ It’s light and airy and perfect for this time of year. And there is so much good going on with this particular dress. From the button up top to the tie at the waist and the eyelets, the details are simple but make a big impact. Not sure about the dress? You can always switch out the dress for a pair of white shorts and a white top. And the accessory possibilities are truly endless!
Another classic that is making a big comeback. Big or small, gold or silver, hoops can be seen everywhere. I love the not so perfectly round hoops that add some extra character. They are simple and classic and go with everything. And the best part, you probably already have a pair which makes shopping for this item as easy as walking to your jewelry box.
I am in love with this snake print bracelet and it looks even better in person! I love that each of these is a separate bracelet so I can wear them all together or just the snake print one alone. It seems no piece of clothing or accessory is immune to snake print, it’s everywhere and on everything!
This is another item that screams summer! It’s reminiscent of the big rattan bags often toted to the beach, but this is a chic, scaled-down version and the striped lining gives it that extra fun touch. Check out some of the other fun straw purses I found below.
These sandals are the perfect mix of trendy, sophisticated and casual. I love that they are flats but the snake print turns it up a notch making them perfect to go with anything from shorts, to jeans and of course, the perfect white summer sundress. Dress it down with a pair of snake print slip-ons or dress it up with a cute snake print heel!
You’ll find some of these trends featured in the Style Challenges Summer 2019 Capsule Wardrobe which opens next week on May 24th. For just $39 you’ll get a shopping list of trends and classic basics to check off, then I’ll send you an outfit idea right to your inbox every day for 31 days. Feeling confident and on trend with your style has never been easier. Join my mailing list now so you’ll be the first to know when the next Style Challenge opens.
We all know how damaging the sun can be to our skin, but it’s not uncommon to want just a little more color especially this time of year. That’s why self-tanning lotions have become a very popular way to deepen our skin tone without spending hours laying out in the sun. I admit it, I was totally guilty of going to the beach and slathering my skin with baby oil and letting it bake. Then eventually, I switched over to a tanning oil with something like 7 SPF in it and thought I was doing “responsible tanning.” Um no! Now that I’m older and hopefully wiser I never leave the house without at least a 15 SPF and when it comes to the pool or beach I go with a much higher SPF. I love to protect my face with Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50.
This demand for a safer tan has lead to the development of so many different kinds of self-tanners that it can be hard to know which ones will give you that desired golden, sunkissed glow instead of Oompa Loompa orange. But from what I’ve learned, it’s not just about what products you use but how you prep your skin that plays an important role in the overall look. So before we discuss any self-tanners, lets first look at skin prep.
Skin Prep
Even the best self-tanner can turn out blotchy if you don’t prep your skin beforehand. It can sound intimidating at first, but most of it can be done in the shower and then after it’s just a matter of remembering a few simple steps.
1. Exfoliate
Exfoliating is the first step to glowing skin. Not only is this good to do anyway to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover, but it allows for a smooth application of your self-tanner. Using a washcloth, loofah or even your hands, apply an exfoliating wash like Tree Hut’s Shea Sugar Scrub or Dove Exfoliating Body Polish all over. Be sure to pay extra attention to areas where the skin is thicker such as your elbows, knees and feet. Once you’re done in the shower or bath make sure you dry off completely.
2. Apply in Sections
When applying your self-tanner it’s best to do it in sections and apply in a circular motion. Not only will this help you keep track of the areas you’ve already done, but applying in a circular motion will help to avoid streaks. It’s best to start at your legs, working your way up but save your torso for last. Also, remember to wash your hands with soap between each sectional application! This helps to eliminate overly tan/orange hands! You can use a self-tanner application mitt to keep the lotion off your hands.
3. Blend and Dilute
Blend – When you get to your ankles and your wrists, it’s best to blend out the self-tanner to create a more natural look. Take whatever you have left on your hands and lightly feather it out instead of adding more. Dilute – When you get to the body parts that bend, elbows, knees, ankles, you’ll need to dilute your self-tanner as those parts tend to absorb more and will appear darker if you don’t. The easiest way to dilute your tanner is to add just a bit of lotion to it before applying it to those areas. If you’ve already applied, you can simply rub some off with a slightly damp towel (don’t use a good towel because it may stain.)
4. Let it Dry
Now that you’ve taken the time to exfoliate and carefully apply your self-tanner you have to take the time to let it dry completely. If you don’t all that hard work will be for not and you’ll end up with marks and streaks from where your clothes hit. Wait a minimum of 10 minutes before getting dressed and even after that it’s best to wear loose fitting clothing and avoid sweating for up to 3 hours after application.
5. Moisturize
Depending on what self-tanner you use will determine how long it will last and how often you have to do it to achieve your desired darkness. To help prolong the life of your tan be sure to moisturize daily to keep skin soft and glowing. And of course, don’t forget your sunscreen! I love using Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion with SPF 15 for daily use and then when I’m planning a day in the sun I’ll use Kiehl’s Activated Sun Protector™ Water-Light Lotion For Face & Body.
Self-Tanners
So now that you know how to prep your skin, what are some good self-tanners to choose from? Below are my top five self-tanner recommendations based on reviews and personal experience.
Just like you guys, one of my first questions when compiling my list of self-tanners is, “What does Alison use?” The answer, Neutrogena Micromist Airbrush Sunless Tanning Spray in Medium. Why does she use it? Not only does it take her skin up a few shades, but it’s also super easy to apply, budget-friendly and easy to find online or in store.
Personally, I like using Rodan + Fields Essentials Foaming Sunless Tan. It doesn’t have a bad smell and the foam makes for a nice and smooth application. The color looks natural and doesn’t take too long to appear. I usually apply it after my shower at night and so far I haven’t had any issues with it staining my clothes or sheets. One drawback is the color only lasts about three to four days so if I want to keep my tan I need to reapply a little more often.
3. Tanceuticals CC Self Tanning Body Lotion
If you want to go more than just a few shades darker then you need to try Tanceuticals CC Self Tanning Body Lotion. According to Selftanning.com is one of the top-rated self-tanners, easy to apply, dries quickly and the color lasts about a week. They have multiple shades so you can pick how dark you want to go as well as a separate tanning lotion for your face. You can also find this product on Amazon which always makes for easy ordering.
4. St. Tropez Tanning Essentials Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse
If you want some color in a hurry then try St. Tropez Tanning Essentials Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse. You can control how dark you want to get based on how long you leave it on. For a lighter tan, shower an hour after applying, for a darker color, wait three hours to shower. Everyone is different and your time may vary so it may take a little trial and error to figure out the best amount of time to achieve your desired color. St. Tropez has an extensive line of fantastic self-tanners that can both give you instant or gradual color, as well as products to help maintain your color.
5. Jergens Natural Glow
Jergens Natural Glow makes two products I absolutely love! They are super easy to use, require little prep work and will take my color up a few notches. First is Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer which comes in two different color levels. I simply apply it after my shower and within a few days the color will start to appear. Second is Jergens Natural Glow Wet Skin Moisturizer + Firming. This allows me to moisturize and apply tanner all while in the shower and anything that saves me time is a keeper. I’ve only used the Jergens Wet Skin for a few weeks and while I like the color it’s giving me, especially for those areas that will never see the sun, the jury is still out on its firming properties. For both of these products, I will say the color is not quick and it’s not intense, but for ease of use, it’s perfect for my busy life. Just remember to still wash your hands with soap after use to avoid overly stained hands.
Your turn! What’s your favorite self-tanning lotion? Do you have any tips or tricks you use for applying your self-tanner?
First off, can we address that it’s May already?!?! Weren’t we just celebrating the New Year not that long ago? And yet, it is, in fact, the 1st day of May and that means Mother’s Day is just around the corner. May 12th to be exact. Whether you’re celebrating a mom, a grandma, an aunt or someone just extra special and amazing, they can be some of the hardest people to shop for. They typically never want anything for themselves nor would they ask for something, so it’s up to us to get creative when it comes to gift giving. That’s why I’ve combed my imagination as well as the internet to come up with some fun and unique gift-giving ideas, perfect for that one woman that we are lucky enough to call mom.
How many times a day do we reheat our morning coffee or tea? With this special Mother’s Day Edition Ember Mug, it will stay warm no matter how long it takes to enjoy it. The cup its self will warm for about an hour but with the charging coaster, it can stay warm all day! You can even opt for the Travel Version of this mug or if you like to keep it simple, it also comes in a sleek gray, white or black option.
I thought this was such a cool idea! You can have a simple handwritten message turned into a bracelet that she can wear. It can be anything from a sweet message, to words of encouragement, a name or even something special inside joke that only you two share. This handwritten bracelet is sure to make her smile and think of you!
If curling up with a great book sounds like heaven to your mom than may we suggest Daisy Jones and the Six? A New York Times Bestseller, this book is sure to delight! But the best part, it also comes in an audiobook format which is perfect for the multi-tasking mom who can enjoy a good book while getting things done!
For the mom with the sweet tooth, yes that would be me, you can’t go wrong with Shari’s Berries! Yes, it’s a classic, but they have everything from the most amazing chocolate covered strawberries to decadent chocolates and they deliver almost everywhere.
For the mom who has family all over, this Love Lives Here Customizable Map Pillow is a fun little way to show mom she’s loved all over the world! They have a few different design options available and it’s super easy to customize. This would be the perfect addition or any couch or bed!
This book is reminiscent of the fun little fill in the blanks we used to present our mother’s with as kids. I have to admit, they were and still are my favorite things to receive from my children. They always make me cry happy tears and nothing beats words from the heart. This book gives your prompts and allows you to fill in all the things you love about your mom. It also comes in a What I Love about Grandma version.
I am in love with this oh so pretty way to bring the outdoors in with this beautiful Pansy Mason Jar Planter kit. It comes in a beautiful purple mason jar and this self-watering planter ensures that you can’t over water or underwater your flowers. It will look amazing on any kitchen counter or window sill. If herbs are more her thing, it also comes in a Basil Mason Jar Kit or a Cilantro Mason Jar Kit.
If giving the gift of gourmet cookies is more up your alley than do not fear, there’s no shortage of amazing cookie companies that will deliver straight to your loved one’s door! Our friends at eatgiftlove.com have compiled a list of the 20 Best Mail Order Cookies for 2019. You can find everything you could ever want in a cookie from a classic chocolate chip to a unique mango, dark chocolate and citrus cookie. I even found a box of perfectly posh macarons! The hardest part will be decided which ones to send (and which ones to order for yourself!)
I thought this was such an awesome find! Life goes by so fast and this Q&A a Day for Moms journal helps us to remember the little moments that make life amazing. Every page is labeled with the month and the day and a prompt of some sort for the writer to fill in the blank. Then at the end of the year, she will have 365 days of written down moments and memories and then she can start again. Not only will she be able to capture new memories but she’ll be able to look back and reflect on past ones. They also make a kid’s version which would be fun to look back on once they are older.
What better way to bond with the most amazing woman in your life than by doing a GYPO Style Challenge with her? It’s always more fun to do things together and this is no exception. Whether you’re in the same city or miles apart, the Style Challenge Facebook group makes it easy to share your pictures, ask style questions and get opinions in a fun, judgment-free zone.
We know it takes a village, so to all the mothers, grandmothers, aunts or friends – anyone who has taken on that oh so special role, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts!!!
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
SHOP THE ACCESSORY LINE
SHOP THE LOOKS
A NOTE TO READERS
Please know that Get Your Pretty On uses affiliate links in some of our posts. This means that clicking on or purchasing through a link may help me earn a small commission, which helps make this blog possible. Thank you for your support! For more information, please see our Terms & Conditions.
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
