A Letter to Sleeping Bag Coats

Dearest Sleeping Bag Coat,

According to every fashion girl/model-off-duty/style blogger, you are a bit of an abomination. You counter everything I've spent all year working on by concealing my shapes, swallowing up my legs, and making me sweat underneath your excess weight. In reality, I should hate you. (Un)Fortunately, I don't. When push comes to shove, it's freezing outside. The arctic has hit Canada and like a comforting sip of hot chocolate, you make me feel warm and cozy inside and out. You're like a knight in shining armour, only slightly less shiny and much softer to the touch.

via elle.com

As much as I cringe at my reflection in the mirror or my impossible-to-fit-the-screen snapchat selfies, I still can't help but embrace you. You may not be a chic fourrure or as classy as wool, but you make me forget I live in the great white north for just a moment. You also make me feel like I haven't left my bed ALL DAY. And for that, I'm eternally grateful. As for your fashion value, some designers have chosen to let you in to their exclusive club (like Acne Studios, Balenciaga, and MSGM), while others have rejected you entirely. But a true fashion statement is prepared to accept and even welcome the rejection like a fashion faux-pas on a mission. Congratulations on being the most questionable winter staple and the most challenging one to love. Frankly, I still love you.

Happy winter,
Bella

Are Hoodies Even Fashion?

Due to streetwear brands like Hood by Air and Vetements, the fashion world can't get enough of the "stoner staple" otherwise known as the hoodie. I can't help but wonder, why?????

While fluffy coats project glamour, bombers are sport chic, and leather jackets are edgy as hell, hoodies are just plain, well, plain. Hoodies are what you wore back in high school gym class because it matched your sweatpants. Hoodies are what you bought after college to wear to bed with your school's colours and logo. Hoodies are what your boyfriend lent you during a long walk on a cold spring night. Hoodies are NOT a fashion staple.

Or are they?

Perhaps I'm being a bit harsh. Fashion has embraced the sneaker, particularly the Adidas Originals and Stan Smiths, and well, Adidas makes hoodies too so by logical deduction...The magazines can't stop talking about getting fit and athleisure, the most popular streetwear trend that transformed your gym wear into day-to-day attire. But, hoodies? Is it the next cool thing that we borrow from the boys or simply a sign we've just given up on getting dressed in the morning? Can a hoodie ever be chic?

Unless you're Kanye West, probably not.

It takes a certain type of person to rock a hoodie like a fashion girl/boy and though the S/S 16 runways have welcomed this newcomer with open arms, it hasn't quite swayed me yet.

HOWEVER, I do admit that a true pro can transform it and potentially, it can become a "fashion". If you're thinking of wearing it with your Roots sweatpants, think again.

How did slides become fashion? How did pyjamas become fashion? All it took was one fashionista to reinvent it. Perhaps sweatpants and a hoodie are not fashion, but maybe if you wore it with your fitted midi skirt? Or perhaps a pair of leather pants? 

Like anything else, the way to break into fashion is by breaking the rules, altering the norms, and mixing and matching in a way nobody thought possible. In that case, bring on the hoodie. Who knows? It may become my next closet staple.

Ponder it,

Bella

Plastic Is Fantastic (Especially for Rain)

"Rain, come at me, because this year, I will be fashionably prepared. You may think you can rain on my parade by frizzing up my hair and soaking up my sandal-adorned feet, but you are greatly mistaken. The fashion world has officially made plastic happen."

via Pinterest

If I were to have a conversation with the rain, that is more or less what it would be like. You may be thinking, "Plastic? Hell no. That cannot be fashionable." Perhaps several years/seasons/seconds ago I may have said the same. Today, I sing a different tune. Thanks to Christopher Kane, my hair shall be left undamaged because of a certain plastic headscarf shown on the runways this year. Will my purse get wait? No it won't. It will be full-on plastic as seen at Loewe's Spring 2016 show. As a result, my belongings will not risk a drop of water. Also, who needs an umbrella when you've got plastic hats at Gary Graham?

Spring may have officially arrived, but that doesn't guarantee endless days of sunshine (unfortunately). In fact, it's known to rain a lot in the springtime (at least in Canada). While this may be good for nature, it's much more unpleasant for us humans, forced to carry a burdensome umbrella that will flip upwards if attacked too harshly by the heavy waters falling from the sky. While your classic trench is always on trend, it loses part of its function without the protective hood to shield your hair from water damage. Nature can sometimes be unkind and that's why we need to find a way to keep our look intact without losing our fashion sense in the process. While the initial response may be one of distaste (what has the fashion world done now), it's undeniable that this trend is quite practical. While your classic rain mac used to be the only option, the Spring 2016 runways introduced  much more chic innovations to make rain dancing so much more fun.

Are you ready to embrace this trend? I don't know about you, but I may find myself dancing in the rain some day soon, an activity I never thought I'd do.

Ponder it,

Bella

#ForTheSakeOfFashion: Starting 2016 With The Hair Tuck

With the New Year rapidly approaching (it's tomorrow, in case you hadn't heard), it's time to start thinking about the trends that will jumpstart 2016. Rather than looking back at the most popular trends of 2015 such as Addidas Stan Smiths, fringe, and floppy hats (to name a few), let's look deep into the future and attempt to predict the next fashion trend to plague the (non)fashion world.

Based on my deductions, it seems that "turtleneck hair" may be the next mind-boggling fashion look of 2016. What is "turtleneck hair", you ask? According to several well-versed fashionistas (such as my personal favourite, The Man Repeller), turtleneck hair is the act of tucking your hair into your turtleneck. Though this isn't new within the fashion world, it has recently grown in popularity for some unbeknownst reason.

via honestlywtf.com

Could it be the faux bob it creates that allows us to change our hair without cutting off those beloved locks?

Could it be the cozy feeling it gives us by keeping every strand on our head snuggled inside our sweaters?

Could it be that our hair just needs a safe haven from that tumbling snow?

OR could it be that there is no reason at all?

Is it possible that we, the fashionistas, are doing it, "just because (it looks cool)"?

Whatever your reason for contemplating this trend, don't overthink it. Sometimes it's best to give it a shot and see if it feels like you. The benefit of looking just like a fashion girl? Well, that's just gravy.

Happy New Year!

(and ponder it),

Bella

#ForTheSakeofFashion: Booties In The Summer?

If you live in a warm country (which I do not), you may be faced with the following dilemma. Can I still buy a pair of boots? What if they're cute Chelsea boots? Is this purchase justifiable?

Your answer is most definitely yes.

Though it may seem like an illogical purchase in every way, little booties have become a style statement. Even those of the over-the-knee variety can now be worn with a mini dress for a different effect altogether.

via breakfastwithaudrey.com.au

We've all seen the Mileys and Caras of this world sport some combat boots with a pair of shorts. Depending on whether or not you live in L.A, this can be permissible. In fact, it's almost encouraged, especially when combined with an edgier outfit.

Whether a pair of peep-toe booties for a night on the town or combat boots for your daily shopping excursion (or monthly, depending on your level of addiction), boots have transformed into a year-long versatile look that never goes out of style. Sometimes you're not in the mood to wear a sandal, possibly because you haven't had the time to redo your pedicure. No matter. Boots are here to rescue you from a chipped nail fiasco.

Sure, the sneaker is the most logical alternative, but as I always say, fashion should (almost) NEVER be about logic, but rather about playful creativity. In other words, you should be wearing booties #forthesakeoffashion and not because it's cold outside. In fact, the cold should not dictate how you dress (for the most part). You should control the weather by wearing what you please, when you please. That may be our only way of coping with our weather woes.

So, next time you're considering wearing those little black boots in the summer, don't let warm weather get in the way of your decision.

Ponder it,

Bella

An Ode To Summer Hats: The Accessory That Protects You AND Looks Cute

via bestcelebritystyle.ca

If you walk down the streets of Montreal, rare is the day you spot a girl in a hat. In the winter, it's a whole other story, but that's by mere necessity. Why don't we see hats in the summer as a necessity as well? Let's face it. It's hot outside and my head gets sweaty. A hat just makes it worse. Or does it? While sunglasses project cool vibes (whether worn indoors or out), a hat is a style statement that many are reluctant to make. That's exactly what makes it such fun.

While in some cities, hats may be all the rage. This one needs a hat awakening. When a girl walking down the street in a wide-brim hat becomes too much of a fashion statement, you know the masses haven't yet embraced it. It sets the fashion girls apart because of its ability to draw in everyone's attention and is perceived as a look associated with hipsters or artists.

While this is all true, it's also true that hats protect us from UV rays. While tanning is still rampant, the fashion industry continues to encourage skin protection in the best way they know how: turning it into a style statement. What better way to get everyone on the bandwaggon than to transform a necessity into a playful fashion trend?

While wide-brim felt hats were all the rage last fall, summer is all about chic berets, straw hats, and cool baseball caps. Gone are the days when hats were merely associated with athletes and farmers. With the wide selection of hats our favourite stores have to offer, there's a cute hat for fashionistas with all kinds of inclinations.

So, next time you think you don't have a "hat head", experiment a little longer. After all, the benefits make this one worth it.

Ponder it,

Bella

Adapting VS Adopting: How Do You Know When You've Taken Trend Guides Too Seriously?

For those of us who read an abundance of magazines (myself included), how do you know when you've taken a trend too far?

What does this mean, you ask?

It means that you can't tell the difference between adopting this trend and adapting to it.

Let's go over some definitions here (taken straight from my computer's built-in dictionary)

Adapt: to make something suitable for a new use or purpose; modify
Adopt: to take up, start to use, or follow

Now, which one do you want to fall under? Well, let's say you see Man Repeller's Leandra Medine in a pair of round frame sunglasses. Subsequently, you see a trend report on round frames in your latest issue of Elle. Instantly, you get this urge to buy a pair because you want to be just like her (subconsciously, of course). This, my friend, is adopting. Now, if you arrive at the store and try on the same pair as Leandra, only to find yourself disappointed with how they look on your face, don't fret. You may not have the same face as she does, but this doesn't mean you can't experiment with round frames. Therein comes adapting. When you find a pair of round frames with wide rims that suit your big personality, you know you've found the ones. They may be different from the ones written about in Elle, but at least they feel like a version of the trend that suits you.

via vogue.com

The idea is to pick and choose the trends you want to follow. Now, I'm not asking you to stop experimenting and limit yourself to your classic favourites, but rather, to experiment the right way. What does this mean? It means that it's important to find an item that makes you feel most like yourself while taking a fashion risk. After all, trends are simply guidelines. It's up to you to make them your own.

Ponder That,

Bella

When Are Face Nets Coming Back In Style?

Some associate this look with British royalty and others with brides. I, however, see it as a fashion statement that needs to be revived immediately.

Let me begin by saying that I'm a hat girl through and through. I love a great headpiece to decorate your er...head. From girly bows to chic headbands, even a good hairpiece sparks my attention. My question is:

Why is it so underrated?

A look best kept for special occasions, the "hair net veil" is ideal for the current wedding season. It offers a look of mystery and old school elegance that's lacking in today's society. With the rebirth of period dramas in recent years, it's a wonder that this look hasn't yet reached the masses. Though we are currently in the midst of a 70s revival featuring bell bottoms and maxi dresses, fashion tends to look back and with each passing year, we become nostalgic for one that's further and further away from where we are.

This particular trend takes us back to the 1920s flapper girl cloche hats that invited one to add an air of mystery. It's sexy in an understated way with a hint of flirtation hidden beneath it.

Can the face net veil (whatever it's really called) ever return? If it does, will it become the hottest new wedding look? Or can it make its way onto the streets and replace the wide brim hat?

If Beyonce can do it, why can't you?

via shelookbook.com

Ponder it,

Bella

My Controversial Relationship With Slides and Their Inherent Ugly Appeal

Happy Tuesday!

In light of recent news that slides are the latest trend to dominate the streets permeated with fashionistas and my ambivalent feelings towards them, I felt that they absolutely must be discussed. First and foremost, until today, slides have been perceived by the general public as a man's shoe. As a self-proclaimed "feminist" (quotation to signal multiple definitions of the word), I'm pro dressing androgynously. I live for pants, pantsuits, tuxedos, and baseball caps. Slides have officially made the list of things women are starting to embrace and although men may not necessarily consider them "sexy", fashion girls are loving them.

Could it be that men cannot imagine women in this type of shoe because it's always been worn by men?
Or is it just plain ugly no matter your gender?

For those of you who don't know, slides are a form of flip flop without the tong in the middle. They resemble slippers, but they are meant to be worn outdoors. They can be straight or crisscrossed. They probably shouldn't be worn with socks, but nobody is stopping anyone from trying.

via stylehunter.com

The moment I saw them on the feet of bloggers, I was appalled. How could they give in to comfort? Should I have seen this coming when sneakers dominated the stiletto? Is comfort really everything or are bloggers trying to turn something ugly into a fashion statement that everyone will be dying to wear? Is this simply a test that proves bloggers own the fashion sphere? Are they all secretly making fun of us for following suit?

Here is the reality fellas. I bought a pair. I gave in and my favourite part about them is, lo and behold, their ugliness. Whether we like it or not, they make a statement and the negative reactions often add humour to my day. Do I love them or do I love the reaction I get out of them? I couldn't tell. Perhaps a bit of both. Regardless, they are in my closet and I've already worn them.

What ugly trend will I love next? Are the ugly ducklings going to take center stage? What does ugly mean anyway?

Ponder it,

Bella

What Your Sunglasses Shape Says About You

Trends come and go, but there are always a few that catch our eye for a reason we can't explain. When it comes to eyewear, we tend to choose something that best reflects our personality since it becomes our statement piece come summer. As it is the season for sunglasses, let's try to deduce what your sunglasses say about you. Whether you have one pair or five, this may give you some insight if you're looking to try something new.

AVIATORS

You lean towards convention and classic looks that never go out of style. Trends don't phase you because you already know what works for you and your inner confidence consistently shines through. Your style can be defined as effortless and easygoing with a bit of edge. You're a total jet-setter who lives for the sunshine.

via fabfashionfix.com

ROUND FRAMES

Your friends see you as the quirky one in the group with the most upbeat personality. You love life, music, and simply hanging out with your friends at every occasion you can. You're a little bit offbeat and you live for good vintage finds. You're a girly girl, but with a slight inclination towards menswear.

via shopzerouv.com

CAT EYE SUNGLASSES

You're a little more wild than the average girl and thrive off of risk taking, especially when it comes to your fashion choices. You constantly strive to make a statement and try something new and unexpected to explore different assets of your personality. You're highly experimental and love a good trend to challenge your personal style.

via whowhatwear.com

SQUARE FRAMES

You're a classy lady who loves a good pair of Ray Bans that project sophistication and attitude. You always look put-together and elegant no matter the occasion. You live in your little black dress, but you also love feminine skirts in crisp cuts. You're a no fuss type of girl, but you're also well-dressed at all times. People aspire to imitate your style because of its effortless quality.

via becauseimaddicted.com

Which pair suits you?

Ponder it,

Bella

Why Dressing For Your Body Is More Important Than Following Trends

via visitdenmark.co.uk

As someone who reads a minimum of one magazine per week, I'm not ashamed to admit that I am tempted by trends. I like to believe that they don't phase me and that my style is a unique aspect of my identity unaffected by what magazines tell me to wear. Unfortunately, every time I dwell on my purchases, I conclude that this cannot possibly be the case. I question my choices and wonder whether I bought that fringe skirt because I've been following Coachella too much on Instagram. Here are some questions that plague my mind:

Is my suede jacket suddenly intriguing because the 70s are making a comeback?
Will I be wearing giant round frames because I saw them on an Olsen twin this season?
Am I only into yellow because I read that it's this year's colour in Harper's Bazaar?

I know. These are very pressing questions. I can hardly shop anymore without diving into a full on existential crisis. So, how is this avoided?

The key is to figure out what works for you. Pretty easy, right?

Actually, it's a horrendous process. There's nothing worse than that feeling you get when you absolutely LOVE something and you're hoping someone will tell you it looks great on you (sincerely) even though you know it doesn't. You know those glasses are too big for your face, but the colour is incredible. You're dying to buy some culottes but your legs look about two inches long. You contemplate flared pants on the daily, but every pair you try looks horrible. You buy them anyway. Or do you?

Life (i.e fashion) often throws us suggestions through celebrities. When we see anything on Kate Moss, we're driven to take it. It is not logic that pulls us towards that dress, it's our desire to look just as great as Poppy Delevingne while wearing it. Once the novelty wears off, we realize with dread that it looks terrible and can't remember why we bought it in the first place.

Though buyer's remorse is a common problem amongst everyone who has ever shopped, it can be avoided by staying true to yourself. Here are some ideas:

1) Pick a word (or two) that you would use to describe your style personality.
2) Think about it/them every time you shop.
3) Find out what works for your body.
4) Buy those pants.

It's a long process but I promise, it can be fun. When you discover what works for you, a trend in a magazine will become a fleeting idea that hardly tingles your body.

Ponder that,

Bella

The Short Girl's Guide to (Seemingly) Unflattering Trends

As someone who falls under the petite category, I can relate to women who feel as though shopping trips are frequently disappointing, trends are generally impossible to mimic on an unnaturally small frame, and when it comes to shoes, comfort always comes second to height. It's exasperating when hems are consistently too long and the sales lady informs you that no, there is no petite section. So, what do you do? How do you survive in a world that favours a tall Naomi Campbell figure? Here are some trends you think you can't pull off, but actually, you can.

WIDE LEG PANTS

What you think:

They cut my legs in half. They make me look like I'm about 12 years old. I'm a torso on tree trunks.

The reality:

With a high-waisted cut and some wedges, this look can actually slim down the waistline and lengthen the body. Bonus? They're a major trend this season.

via glamourparis.com

THE MAXI DRESS

What you think: 

I look so short. I can never wear flats with this. I'm drowning.

The reality:

A body hugging maxi dress offers a slimming and lengthening effect on a shorter woman. It's easy to shorten if necessary and some of them even come in the right length for you. If you find one with double slits, even better.

via blglovin.com

THE MIDI SKIRT

What you think:

I look fat. I have no legs. Where are my legs?

The reality:

Worn with the right pair of heels, a midi skirt can be very flattering on a petite girl. Make sure to get one that's high-waisted and that falls right below the knee.

via fashionstylemag.com

CULOTTES

What you think:

I can never wear cropped pants, especially the wide kind. This isn't happening. My legs aren't happening.

The reality:

Once again, high-waisted is KEY. A mid-sized heel is better than no heel but if you're bold, feel free to go flat.

via whowhatwear.com

AN OVERSIZED COAT

What you think:

I will get eaten. This is enormous. Help me.

The reality:

If you get a knee-length version, you'll still achieve that long-legged look you crave. You'll also look like a (hot) munchkin.

via buro247.kz

OVER THE KNEE BOOTS

What you think:

I have no legs. And I look like a hooker.

The reality:

You're wrong. You have more leg than ever before and with a short skirt, it's a great alternative to tights.

via fashionbloggers.pe

Have I revolutionized your life? Which look will be wearing?

Ponder it,

Bella

Why This Summer Will Be All About Those Braids

As much as I love leaving my hair loose and blowing in the wind, when summer hits, I find it best to keep it tucked away to avoid sweaty neck syndrome. As someone who lives in a humid city, I know that letting your hair down can cause some serious frizz and may not always be the best choice. Luckily, I learned how to braid my hair this year and not just the basic way.

As a little girl, I always found braids beautiful and enjoyed making bracelets with string to mimic a look I couldn't master on my head. I found it to be therapeutic and relaxing, and I aspired to learn how to recreate the look with my hair. All this time, I never thought I could master the braid and alas, I opted for a simple blow dry. Until now.

A braid can take on a variety of forms. Whether a fishtail, a french braid, a braided headband, or even a crown, there are so many options to choose from. If you search the word "braid" on Pinterest, you'll find an abundance of looks that don't limit you to the traditional three strand braid.

With the 70s being the fashion decade of the moment, the hippie look is very a propos and nothing goes better with wide leg pants, fringe, and suede jackets, than a few braids in your hair.

Here are ten braided looks from the runway to inspire you.

Marissa Webb S/S 2015 - cosmopolitan.co.uk

Valentino S/S 2015 Couture - style.com

Giorgio Armani S/S 2015 - harpersbazaar.com

Chanel S/S 2015 Couture - vogue.co.uk

Bibhu Mohaparta S/S 2015 - harpersbazaar.com

Michael Kors S/S 2015 - thisisglamorous.com

Suno S/S 2015 - harpersbazaar.com

Mara Hoffman S/S 2015 - via wwd.com

Peter Som S/S 2015 - harpersbazaar.com

Marco de Vicenzo S/S 2015 - fashionising.com

Will you be braiding your hair this upcoming season? If so, which braid is your favourite?

Ponder it,

Bella

10 Ways To Wear Your Denim This Summer

As an avid lover of denim, I'm a firm believer that you can go every day of your life with one piece of denim in your outfit and not get bored. Call me Canadian, but I'm a huge fan of the large amount of variations on this multi-seasonal look that never goes out of style. Denim has been a closet staple since the 1980s with icons like Jane Birkin and Kate Moss owning this look time and time again. You can dress it up and dress it down. You can wrap it around your waist or even on your head. Denim is the most versatile fabric on the market and I'm eager to try every version of it that I can. Here are ten ways you can wear it this summer.

NUMBER 10

As A Skirt

At Chloe, the button-front jean skirt made a star appearance and I have been in love ever since. With Normcore being the norm this year, jean skirts are back from the grave and a fashion staple no less.

Chloe S/S 2015 - style.com

NUMBER 9

With More Denim

Take it from Olivia Palermo, the Canadian tuxedo is one to try this summer. Whoever thought you could wear too much denim never wore it like a fashion girl.

via bloglovin.com

NUMBER 8

As Cutoffs

With festival season in our midst, denim cutoffs are a closet must. Warm weather demands that they be worn so wear them like you're 16 again.

via whowhatwear.com

NUMBER 7

As Boyfriend Jeans

Skinny jean who? With skinny jeans slowly easing out of the picture, baggy ripped boyfriend jeans are the new trend of the moment that's capturing everyone's attention. Are you ready to give it a shot?

via popsugar.com

NUMBER 6

As Overalls

Summer is the perfect time to release your inner child and with the latest news that Full House is returning as "Fuller House" on Netflix, overalls couldn't be more relevant.

via whowhatwear.com

NUMBER 5

With 70s Flair

Since the boho look has resurfaced, so has the wide leg. Best worn with a sky high wedge, are you gutsy enough to try this look?

via glamradar.com

NUMBER 4

As A Dress

A jean dress is the perfect summer look because all you have to do is slip it on and you're ready to go. Whether you choose to wear it with your crisp new sneakers or a pair of wedges, that's your choice. Either way, when it comes to denim, anything goes.

via luckymag.com

NUMBER 3

As A Jacket

A jean jacket is the ideal closet staple for those breezy summer nights. It's casual and put together without taking away from your outfit.

via wwd.com

NUMBER 2

With Embellishment

Are you bold enough to wear embellished jeans? Seen at Dolce & Gabbana and Ashish, this look was a major crowd pleaser on the Spring 2015 runways.

Dolce & Gabbana S/S 15 - sophiazchoice.tumblr.com

NUMBER 1

All Patched Up

Who needs uniform denim anyway?

MM6 Maison Martin Margiela - style.com

Which one will you be wearing this season?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

How To Wear Yellow Without Looking 12

Last May, I wrote about my mysterious case of yellow fever (read here), a plague I have endured for most of my life. This year, the colour yellow is once again de rigueur and it's about to become everyone's favourite colour. With the grim and gruesome winter we've had, we're all craving that sunshine like children back from fat camp crave cake, and alas, it is at our fingertips. Our version of the sundance? Wearing lots and lots of yellow. This year, the hue is brighter than ever on blouses and skirts, and for the bolder ones amongst us, dresses. But how do we make yellow look more sophisticated garden party than little girl crashing said sophisticated garden party? Here is your personalized guide to wearing the colour and avoiding this blunder.

TIP 1:

Keep your accessories yellow and your outfit subdued. Nothing says chic and ladylike like a pair of stilettos, even in a whimsical hue like yellow.

via fabsugar.com

 TIP 2:

Combine it with your best black and white look. A cropped blazer is always flattering and as the topping on your mini dress, it projects an elegance that doesn't scream for attention.

via popsugar.com

TIP 3:

Try wearing yellow on a lace skirt in a straight cut to project a more grown up look that remains ultra feminine. Combine it with a subtle gray and you're golden.

via theimprint.theimpression.com

TIP 4:

Top your Little Yellow Dress with a nude poncho to create a classier look. Drape it over your shoulders like only a true fashionista would.

via harpersbazaar.com

TIP 5:

If you're going to opt for a girly coat, wear it over a classic LBD to ensure sophistication. Bows are pretty, but only when juxtaposed with your natural sex appeal.

via harpersbazaar.com

TIP 6: 

Try a darker shade of yellow in an architectural cut that oozes confidence and class. Everyone knows that if you're wearing mustard, you mean business.

via fashionista.com

TIP 7: 

Combine your yellow with another bold colour like green to make a style statement. You'll be the talk of the party.

via harpersbazaar.com

TIP 8:

Nothing is classier than a turtle neck sweater. A bright yellow keeps it young and fresh rather than constricted.

via vogue.es

Now, I must ask: do you have yellow fever too?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

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