My Newfound Crop Top Addiction

After a one-month hiatus, I think it's time we engage in conversation again, shall we? Let's discuss one of my favourite summer trends this season (and the one before that and the one before that): crop tops. When this look resurfaced, I was a little on the fence. A deep V is one thing, but my midriff is something I never thought I'd be showing off anywhere but at the beach. Every season, I've tried wearing this look in a variety of ways. First, as a lover of high-waisted pants, I paired it with those and found it immensely practical and appealing. Subsequently, I went for the high-waisted skirt, while showing the least amount of midriff possible. Ultimately, I gave in by offering a slight peak at my midriff without bordering on vulgar.

via teenvogue.com

I've found that with every trend, it takes a few tries to get it right and make it feel like you. Whether a pair of oversized slides or a wide-brim hat, some things are always going to make a statement (especially in a conservative fashion environment), but if you own it, it'll just become a part of you.

That, my friends, is what happened to me and the crop top. After much deliberation, I've left a space for them in my closet (right before my regular sized tops) and they have become my friend. I now possess a full selection in a variety of neutrals and before long, I will have a few colours to add to the mix. Today, it's all I can buy and I can't seem to rework my regular tops.

As a petite person, a crop top is often more flattering than the regular kind. It elongates my torso and looks cute to boot. My recommendation is to slowly ease into it, especially if you're a little on the shorter side. If a reluctant person like myself can warm up to it, so can you. You may be surprised at how good it makes you feel.

Ponder it,

Bella

Why Designated Work-Out Clothes Are Essential

One of the biggest trends to hit the runways is sportswear as casual wear. Alexander Wang said it himself that he hopes his athletic collection for H&M will be worn on the streets as well as on the treadmill. What this revolution did was make us believe that we didn't have to be athletic to wear a pair of leggings with a tank top made of spandex. Even the girliest amongst us can pull off a jersey with the right pair of heels. My question is: is this really a good thing?

Sure, I can finally walk the streets in running shoes and claim it's a fashion statement.
I can also lie and claim I just got back from a serious workout at the gym.
It's a win-win. Right?

via blog.motelrocks.com

What is wrong with this picture?

Aside from the VS models, athletes, and yogis who can't live without their workouts, is it possible that this is actually bad for the rest of us who are slightly less disciplined?

Raise your hand if you've ever told yourself you'd start hitting the gym as soon as you got that special pair of Adidas Originals to complete your outfit (if you're alone in your room, you can raise it metaphorically).
Raise your hand if you've told yourself that you absolutely HAD to have a pair of Lululemon sweatpants if you were really going to dedicate yourself to that Pilates class.
Raise your hand if going shopping was your initial response to the thought of hitting the gym in any way, shape, or form.

If you raised your hand to all three of those, you're exactly like me.

Some of us need that extra level of discipline to convince ourselves to hit the gym. Sometimes, the VS Fashion Show doesn't cut it. We need to set aside a gym wardrobe to fit working out into our schedule. By reserving those clothes for the gym, they become our uniform without which we cannot go.

If you go to work without your "work clothes", whether a Walmart t-shirt or head-to-toe black retail style, you're not following the dress code. Without that dress code, it's simply another day without structure. And some of us need a little structure to get just as fit as Karlie Kloss or Adriana Lima.

So, keep your gym clothes away from your other clothes. In this case, segregation is necessary in the cafeteria that is your closet.

Ponder that,

Bella

#IconCity: Why I Want To Be Louise Roe

Another woman known to be for being an impeccably dressed talk-show host, Louise Roe lands herself in Icon City hand in hand with Giuliana Rancic. I want to be her not only because she is a fashion journalist, but also because she's British and never wears a print I don't love. Her Red Carpet appearance are consistently beautiful and notable on the best-dressed lists. Even off duty, this woman knows how to dress to the nines.

Here are five of her best looks.

LOOK 1

If anyone knows how to pull off printed pants, it's Louise Roe. Her bold colour-blocked shoes and clutch complete this put-together look.

via fabsugar

 LOOK 2

Did I mention she loves her prints? Louise Roe is the image of perfection in mixed prints.

via fabsugar.com

LOOK 3

Roe looks classy as ever in red leather pants and an unexpected yellow top. The floral clutch is the perfect accent to her ultra chic outfit.

via stilettosontreadmill.blogspot.com.br

LOOK 4

If there's one trend I'm obsessed with it's baggy leather pants. Roe wears them effortlessly with a long coral blazer, printed blouse, and stilettos. I'm in love.

via zimbio.com

LOOK 5

Nobody could have seen this outfit coming. Like a true fashionista, Louise Roe combines colours like no one else. Yellow, pink, and red? Who would've thought?

via stylespotting.com

What do you think of Louise Roe's style? Which look is your favourite?

Ponder it,

Bella

The Coachella Prep List

Coachella is just around the corner and of course, you have no idea what to wear. Lucky for you, the 70s are trending like crazy right now and nothing says Coachella better than your favourite hippie skirt. I know what you're thinking. Coachella is for celebrities and famous children, not you. What you don't know is that H&M has a Coachella collection dedicated to those of us who are fantasizing about the upcoming music festival and preparing our summer wardrobe accordingly. So you may not be attending this Hollywood extravaganza where fringes are favoured to sequins, but these trends still apply to you if you're planning on hitting the streets this summer for any social event. In honour of Coachella, I've prepared a list of trends to help you stock up your wardrobe and make you Coachella-ready for this 70s-inspired summer.

Here is what you need.

A Wide Brim Hat

I cannot stress enough the importance of a wide brim hat this season. For those of you who aren't inclined towards head attire, it's time to flip the switch and go for something bold. Nothing makes a statement better than something you would have never been caught dead in back in 2014.

via nymag.com

Something Fringy

In case you hadn't heard, fringe is the new black, ladies and gents. Whether on your handbag, the bottom of your skirt, or the rim of your crop top, fringe is everywhere and I simply can't get enough of it. Coachella may have not happened yet, but I can guarantee that fringe will make a star appearance on a number of celebs. If there's any trend you need to try this season, it's definitely this one.

via thezoereport.com

Cutoff Shorts

It isn't Coachella without a pair of inappropriately short cut off denim shorts. If you're not sure you're ready for high waisted flowy pants just yet, an easier option is a pair of jean shorts that you'll probably wear all summer long. In other words, it may be your best investment.

via shopdailychic.com

Cowboy Boots

This may be the only time in your life where short shorts and cowboy boots are quasi appropriate. Conjure your inner Daisy Duke with a pair of suede booties that are purely #forthesakeoffashion because frankly, boots in L.A are never necessary. Add some fringe and you're right on trend.

via socialbliss.com

Big Shades

The sun is finally out and it is time to take out those funky shades. Coachella is a festival that celebrates the return of the sunshine with statement-making eye wear. Whether aviators or the latest round trend, pull out your festival best because this is the only time sunglasses are an essential accessory.

via vogue.com

A Statement Piece of Metallic Jewellery (Or Five)

When it comes to your Coachella jewels, more is more. It's time to tack on as many metallic pieces as you can whether stacked on your wrists or around your neck. Get out your best hippie jewellery and get ready to make some music with your bling.

via reoria.com

 Flowers or Florals

Whether worn in your hair or as a print on your dress, flowers are a must at Coachella. It's the festival that celebrates the start of spring and nothing says spring better than flowers blooming. Also, flowers are a symbol of nature and everyone knows that a true hippie lives for the natural landscape.

via glamradar.com

Your Best Pair of Hippie Pants

What are hippie pants, you ask? Anything that provides all the breathing room you need to compensate for the constricting skinny jeans you're been wearing all winter. The flowier and wide the leg, the better. If you want to make a real statement? Get them in a bold print.

via elle.com

A Cross-Body Bag

If you're going to spend the entire day at a festival, your best friend is your cross-body bag. Who wants to carry a heavy purse when partying with your friends? Since cross-body bags are hands-free, there's no better way to ensure that you're a free spirit this festival season.

via en.louloumagazine.com

Your Best Friend

And the best accessory to try this season at Coachella? Your best friend. A group of well-dressed ladies attending the festival is guaranteed to attract some looks. Also, nothing is more fun than a party with your BFF a la model-off-duty.

via whowhatwear.com

Are you ready for Coachella? What will you be wearing?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

Are Thigh High Boots Stripper Boots Or Totally Chic?

This is a question that has been plaguing my thoughts for the last three months as I noticed them emerge onto the fashion scene.

How do I feel about thigh high boots? Get ready for my own personal semi-relevant lo-down.

As a girl of petite proportions, I have been led (read: tricked) into believing that there are a number of trends I could never pull off. For one thing, midi skirts are NOT an option. Oversized clothing is reserved for oversized people and baggy pants should never even enter my lexicon. Over-the-knee boots have somehow fallen into that same category, leading me to question these limitations placed on people of my stature.

Is height our self-defining quality?
Are we not allowed to experiment out of fear it'll shrink us even further to the public eye?

All my life, I have been concerned about appearing even smaller than I already do. I've gone through certain lengths to ensure that I looked taller and the password to entry into the fashion industry, PROPORTIONATE.

What happens when you decide to take a risk? And what if you do it right? Dare I suggest that this is possible?

After noticing a number of short women I respect for their impeccable style including Miroslava Duma, The Olsen Twins, and Nicole Richie, in clothing I never thought possible for women of their height, I started to question everything I grew to understand.

Known for their oversized knitwear, the Olsens are defiant to established fashion rules for petite women and some may disagree with their fashion choices, but their success is undeniable.

via teenvogue.com

Nicole Richie wears that maxi dress like a badge and though she references her height restrictions on her show, Candidly Nicole, fashion does not seem to be one of them.

via imgbox.com

As for Mira Duma, she has been spotted in longer hemlines, oversized coats, and OVER-THE-KNEE boots. PS. I love her.

via www.instylemag.com.au

So, how can they possibly be hooker boots when they look gorgeous on one of the top muses of the industry?

Your answer? No, they are NOT hooker boots by any means. When worn with a chic coat or classy dress, they transform into the most stylish pair of shoes in your closet. Are you running to the stores yet?

Thought so.

XOXO,

Bella

Skinny Jean, Where Hath Thou Gone?

via www.wmagazine.com

It has come to my attention that street style bloggers and fashion moguls alike are foregoing the skinny jean. At first, I struggled to determine whether or not this was an actual pattern, but as I flipped through all the street style photos taken during fashion month, I knew a revolution was about to take place.

Yesterday, I discussed the desire for designers to combine comfort with sophistication by reintroducing the fanny pack. Once again, this thought crosses my mind as more fashionistas are wearing flowy pants or mom jeans over skintight pants.

What is going on?

via www.fashionstylemag.com

As much as I love a flare and a harem pant, I can't help but think about the short girls (aka me). Can short girls even begin to consider giving up the skinny jean?

When I discovered skinny jeans, it changed my life. Gone were the days of slouchy pants that made me feel sloppy. I finally had a rear end and I learned that defining the shape is essential to dressing well. Today, I question this belief.

Do we even need to wear tight clothes to feel attractive? Is fashion trying to counter social norms or redefine them? Is this a response to uncomfortable experiences with prior trends? Is it about feminism?

As I look at these women with their new pants, I feel inspired to experiment myself. If petite women like Miroslava Duma are wearing them, why can't I?

via whowhatwear.com

At first I wondered how I can possibly remain proportionate with a looser pair of pants. Won't I just drown in the fabric? After all, that is every short girl's biggest fear. After giving it some thought, I realized that it wasn't the skinny fit that gave me height, but the waistline. If you make sure your pants are high waisted, you can get away with the flowy pant. Jackpot.

And that got me thinking: is there anything a short girl can't wear? Is it all just in our head?

Women constantly condemn aspects of their body, but the magic of fashion is that it always finds a way for every girl to wear any trend in a manner that suits her body type.

Maybe I can finally purchase that perfect pair of baggy leather pants.

I guess you'll have to wait and see!

Follow me on Instagram: @fashnbella 

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

Who In The World Is Fanny?

...

Wikipedia offers 15 variations of the term we recognize in Canada as "The Fanny Pack".

Before I get into the nitty gritty of this farcical lexicon, let's try to decipher the meaning behind this name.

I'd like to begin by asking you a question: who IS Fanny?

Is she your sister?
Is she your great-aunt's maid?
Is she your second cousin twice removed?
Is she your mother?

Once you've answered these questions, I have another one for you:

Would you name your child Fanny?

I'm guessing no.

Unfortunately, the name Fanny has negative associations. It makes us think of Fanny Hill, the 18th century prostitute, or Fanny Price, the passive character that inhabits the world of Jane Austen's Mansfield Park. And for those of you out of sync with literature, it might make you think of a rear end.

Ding Ding. Right answer.

History says that fanny packs were originally worn behind you (facing your rear), but due to pickpocketing, people decided to turn their wallet purse around. In theory, Fanny packs are a wonderful invention. They allow us to travel handsfree with every little need wrapped around our waist. Today, we have cross-body bags. So, why return to the fanny pack?

Recently, the trend has reared its ugly fanny at shows like Chanel and Alexander Wang as well as around the waist of some of our favourite celebrities. Each of these designers are bringing fanny back with a chic twist.

A few years ago, many would've unanimously agreed that the 90s was the worst fashion decade. Today, every trend we once hated is coming back to haunt us.

Overalls? Check.
Mom Jeans? Check.
Scrunchies? Check.

As a child of the 90s, I admit that we did some pretty strange things such as avoiding bras and putting coloured braids in our hair. Fanny packs were one of those things. I suppose with fashion leaning towards practicality, it was bound to happen. From the sneaker revolution to the pursuit of looser pants, fashion has taken on a new persona: #IWokeUpLikeThis.

What do YOU think of the Fanny pack? Should it even be called "fashion"?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

P.S Check out the list of other terms for Fanny Pack (according to Wikipedia) below and pick your favourite.

Waist Wallet - Canada
Belt Pack - US
Belt Bag - Philippines
Belly Bag - US
Chaos Pouch - US
Buffalo Pouch - US
Hip Sack - US
Phany Pack - US
Waist Bag - US
Hip Pack - UK
Bum Bag - Australia, Oceania, UK
Kangaroo - South America, Ireland
Butt Pack - US
Moon Bag - South Africa

Want one yet?

My Relationship to the Infamous Sneaker

via thefashion.gr

It has come to my attention that designers and bloggers alike have decided to succumb to comfort and opt for the sneaker rather than that jaw-dropping high heel. As a representative of short women everywhere, I am slightly disconcerted by this shocking, yet simultaneously inevitable, decision.

What happened to that statement shoe that made us all stop in our tracks?
What happened to roughing it up during fashion week in impractical shoes as you run from show to show?
Are we all being led to believe that we are just like models and can afford to wear comfortable shoes in public?
Or have we all just given up on trying so hard?

Now, don't misunderstand. I love the idea of women embracing comfort and I know that we curse those heels every night out when we opt for 5 inches or more after dancing the night away. I've done it too. However, I've decided that if I am stepping into those high heels, I have no right to complain that my feet hurt. There's nothing more unpleasant than someone complaining about a decision that was made consciously. Therefore, I vow to stop regretting my decision to wear heels, because I love them too much to get angry at them when they hurt me.

But this post is not about my love for heels. Rather, it is about my relationship to sneakers. Let me give you a lowdown. When I was in High School, I wore Converse. Honestly, who didn't? Those Converse continue to sit in my closet untouched with frays from my youth and I don't have the heart to get rid of them. Though I prefer a heel for every occasion, I feel emotionally attached to my sneakers. They don't just provide physical comfort to the foot, but they remind me of those carefree days where I didn't care about being the shortest girl in the room.

via stylelovely.com

Today, I enter the world of sneakers, swayed by bloggers like Man Repeller and Sincerely Jules as well as Karl Lagerfeld and Christopher Bailey. Though I used to belief that high heels were the only empowering footwear on the market, I've currently discovered that sneakers can have that same effect. In a new stage of my life, I can wear a pair of Addidas high tops and proudly expose my height to the world. I look at sneakers in the same way I look at baseball caps. No, I do not play baseball, but I love to play with boundaries and when it comes to fashion, practicality barely figures into the equation. If all men are going to wear their caps, I want to do it too. And if athletic boys can wear their Nikes and Addidas every day, why can't I? The popularity of sneakers arises from a trend of androgyny or rather, a desire to be "one of the boys", while keeping that femininity alive in other ways. It's a challenge in the same way a pixie is, but slightly less risky.

I always thought that I couldn't pull off a sneaker because I didn't play sports. Who made up that rule? Maybe I want to wear my sneakers to make a statement. Perhaps I feel good in a shoe that represents comfort, equality, and an easy-going nature. Let's stop suffering and wear our sneakers with dresses. According to Cyndi Lauper, girls just want to have fun, and sometimes that's easier to do with a comfy sneaker on, don't you think?

Ponder that.

XOXO.

Bella

#ForTheSakeofFashion: The Transition Edition

Transition period is challenging for all of us. As summer becomes fall and the weather becomes as unpredictable as Justin Bieber's music career, getting dressed turns into a challenge. At this time, one begins to wonder whether boots are appropriate. When can I take out that leather jacket? When should I move my shorts to my bottom drawer? Knee high socks, a yay or a nay?

All of these questions parade through our minds during transition season, which is why we all need to ignore them. That's right. At the end of the day, it all comes down to experimentation. Maybe Mable doesn't want to wear boots just yet, but you're ready. That's totally fine. What's magical about this time of year is that you can wear something completely impractical and nobody can question it. It's the only time of year when a fur with sandals is acceptable (ish). When else would you wear a sweater with your mini skirt?

If you're still slightly confused as to what I am talking about, here are five examples of items that can be worn #forthesakeoffashion simply because it's transition season and anything goes.

NUMBER 1

Sweaters with Mini Skirts

As the mod movement begins to dominate the fall fashion scene, we're all dying to get those mini skirts on. Transition period is the perfect time to highlight those long legs with a mini and an adorable fluffy sweater to create proportions you never thought possible.

via alltheprettybirds.blogspot.com

NUMBER 2

Skirts With Booties

In the winter, no tights are not an option. Therefore, little booties always seem to be worn with them. Transition period is a time where we get to wear short skirts with little edgy boots. Are you ready for this?

via playwithfashion.net

NUMBER 3

Socks with Sandals

Back in the day, you thought this look would forever be reserved for middle-aged men. Today, it's the mark of a fashionista. You can't wear this in the winter, so embrace it while you can.

via Elle.com

NUMBER 4

Wool Hats

No, they don't cover your ears nor shield them from the horrifying winter wind, but they look damn cool. Big hats are back, so wear them now while your ears are still warm.

via ontheracks.com

NUMBER 5

Capes

I already spoke about capes in the first #forthesakeoffashion post, but they are entirely relevant once again. You won't be warm enough for this giant blanket in a few weeks, so now's the time to take advantage of this chic piece of clothing.

via cosmopolitan.com

So, there you have it. Wear it #forthesakeoffashion, because what other reason should you have?

Bella

#IconCity: Introducing Jamie Chung

Great style deserved to be recognized. That is why I created IconCity in the first place. The newest member to arrive is Jamie Chung. No anti-climactic drumroll necessary. After several small roles in some hit films, Jamie introduced herself into the fashion world as one to watch. Though she is known for her breakout role in The Real World, her ability to look amazing at every possible social event is what qualifies really got her noticed (in my personal opinion).

Take a look at some of her best look.

LOOK 1

NYFW S/S 2014 BCBG

Leather and denim is a killer combo that nobody would have thought of pairing together. Except Jamie Chung. And let's not neglect to mention her #forthesakeoffashion choice to wear her jacket over the shoulders AS SHE SHOULD.

via whowhatwear.com

LOOK 2

Marchesa Bridal Show

As soon as she wore it, this mesh Elizabeth and James skirt landed her on every best-dressed list. Topped with a chic red blazer and killer shoes, we'd be crazy not to kill for this outfit.

via People.com

LOOK 3

Street Style

Who else knows how to mix prints in such an expert fashion? Jamie Chung showcases this AMAZING look with her hair casually pulled back. That Isabel Marant jacket is to die for.

via whowhatwear.com

LOOK 4

Launch of Brancott Estate Flight Song

So simple, yet so perfect. The classic white Zara crop top and midi skirt ensemble projects an angelic vibe while her studded BCBG jacket begs to differ. This is exactly what I stand for.

via Instyle.com

LOOK 5

Summer 2013

Clearly a fellow print lover, Jamie Chung proves that a dress in itself can make a bold statement, no accessories needed. 

via Instyle.com

Keep your eyes out for Jamie Chung. She's definitely a force to be reckoned with.

What do you think of her style? Does it merit best-dressed status?

TGIF!

Bella

The Maxi Dress: The Key To Your Summer

I have a theory. My theory is that dresses were invented to facilitate a woman's life. I don't care if your average feminist next door is loyal to her pants. I LOVE pants too and dresses are not what they used to be. I acknowledge the magic of the modern dress as an easy outfit choice with an endless list of accessory possibilities. It's the next best thing to pyjamas.

And in the summer? There's nothing more beautiful than a maxi.

Once upon a time, I thought my height would prevent me from finding the perfect maxi dress. No matter how hard I looked, I always found one that was 6 inches too long. No, I did not feel like getting it hemmed (do I have time for this?). Eventually, I landed on a dress that would work with 5 inch heels. (score!). That day, I discovered the beauty of the maxi.

Whether boho chic a la Rachel Zoe or simple and sweet, the maxi is that easy solution to your summer day. Not sure what to wear? There's a maxi dress waiting inside your closet yearning to be worn. You can never have too many. In fact, sometimes your shorts get lost in the mix because they simply don't promise the same kind of comfort. A maxi every day keeps the doctor away, right? I'm sure it's something like that...

So, if you haven't gotten one yet, I promise you this: you WILL find the one. And once you do, you won't want to take it off!

Check out these maxi dresses for inspiration:

...

Now go shopping, girl! You deserve it.

Bella

Short Shorts Vs. Culottes: Which Will You Be Wearing?

After Coachella, I deem it safe to say that cut off denim shorts are where it's at this season. I would even go so far as saying that they are always trending in the summertime. There's something about denim cutoffs that conjures images of cut up grass and festivals. A timeless wardrobe staple, your classic pair will probably be worn to death this season, beginning with today.

But denim shorts aren't the only ones making an appearance this summer. The culottes (not in the french sense) have arrived as the cooler replacement for capris. Never a fan of capri pants, I have a slightly stronger propensity towards culottes because they do not shrink my legs to tree stumps and they're skirts that won't show your french culotte. In my book, that makes them worth my consideration.

The question of the moment is: which will you be wearing this summer?

Don't get me wrong. I am not limiting you to an entire season of wearing one pair of bottoms. You can obviously wear both depending on the occasion. While denim cutoffs are more sexy teenager meets celebrity festival goer, the culottes are more Paris chic blogger meets sophisticated woman on vacation. Each look has its own purpose and can be worn in a variety of ways to take it from trendy to high fashion (or summer's version of it).

Here are some ideas worth noting featuring both looks.

Denim Cutoffs

Try your denim cutoffs with a plain white tee for a casual daytime look.

via stylabl.com

Wear them with a blazer for a more sophisticated urban look.

via french-voguettes.tumblr.com

Give them a feminine touch with a lace top.

via Pinterest

Culottes

There's nothing more boho chic than a pair of culottes with stilettos and a wide rimmed hat.

via whowhatwear

Try something bold and match your culottes to your top in a bold print that will stop people in the streets.

via Harper's Bazaar

Do it Carrie Bradshaw style with a crop top.

via stylesnooperdan.files.wordpress.com

Which look is screaming your name this summer? Are you a classy culottes girl or boho denim cut offs fanatic?

Bella

Honey, I Shrunk My Handbag

While fall was about the art of layering, spring requires us to shed those layers as we prepare ourselves for the warmer weather that lies ahead. While fall inspired us to put thought and time into our daily looks, spring is about that easy dress that you slip over your head in a bright coral or bold floral print. While fall invited us to try innovative accessories from the various forms of beanies to a Fendi furry purse chain, spring is about minimalism and blending with the natural landscape.

How do creative fashionistas explore their artistic side with such limited quantities of fabric? How do we appear fashionable while exercising minimal effort?

The Mini Bag.

It's a known fact that everything in miniature form is automatically deemed "cute" because it is likened to babies. Who hasn't squealed over a teeny pair of Converse in a store window? Who doesn't fall in love with babies in Burberry trenches fit to size? We all turn gaga at the sight of miniature versions of our favourite things. The mini bag is one of those things. We've all had it with those satchels we've been lugging around all year. There's only so much you can stuff inside your handbag without carrying your entire bedroom. It's time to stop and select 5 items you need with you at all times such as your lipstick, your keys, your wallet, a packet of Kleenex, and perhaps a pair of tweezers. We all have our must-have purse items, but most of us tend to take it to another level. Enough is enough.

Spring is about stepping outside, hands-free, dancing beneath the sunshine in our Jackie-O sunglasses, twirling our full skirts and breathing in the clean air. A large handbag will only hold you back.

Here are some mini handbag ideas for spring:

If you're Whimsical...

A Deck Of Cards (Not Really, Though)

via lolobu.com

If you're Trendy...

Louis Vuitton Luggage Mini Bag

via purseblog.com

If you're Sporty...

Chanel Mini Backpack

via soullovelyfashion.com

If you're Classy...

Chanel Crossbody

via Babble

And If you're Wild...

Phillip Lim 3.1 Leopard Pashli Mini Satchel

via fabsugar.com

Time to say goodbye (for now) to that giant go-to handbag and opt for something mini and hands free. Haven't you heard? Cute is the new black.

Xoxo,

Bella

I've Got 99 Problems And The Romper Is Occasionally One Of Them

One of the biggest trends at Coachella and spring (in general terms) is the romper. For those of you who don't know, a romper is the summer version of the jumpsuit involving shorts connected to your tank top by more fabric (in simple terms). It's the adult onesie, the cooler overalls, the dress's hipster cousin.

via collegefashion.net

Rompers fall into the adorable category for a variety of reasons:

1) They provide comfort beyond anything you've ever worn before.
2) They can be classy or casual, but they will always feel like pyjamas.
3) You don't even have to plan your outfit. You just slip it on and instantly, everyone's wants your look.
4) The idea of a one piece exudes sex appeal for obvious reasons.
5) It's effortless fashion.

Despite the multiple positive aspects of the romper, you may also encounter some problems when sporting this look.

1) The bathroom problem (self-explanatory)
2) Bra or no bra (usually the answer is bra, but some people have to ponder this)
3) The inevitable question: will I look 12 in this outfit?
4) Followed by: am I too old for this?
5) ...there are no other problems

As you can see, the romper has more pros than cons. Time to hit the stores, ladies.

Here are some romper ideas to try:

The Classy Romper

Inspiration: Kourtney Kardashian

via outfitidentifier.com

The Floral Romper

Inspiration: Audrina Patridge

via styletracker-na.tumblr.com

The Denim Romper

Inspiration: Karlie Kloss

via wishbonesandwanderlust.tumblr.com

The Boho Romper

Inspiration: Vanessa Hudgens

via outfitidentifier.com

The Bad Girl Romper

Inspiration: Miley Cyrus

via Pinterest

Are you ready to let the romper into your life? Are you prepared to deal with the problems you may confront? Which romper style is your favourite?

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