Kicking Off Fall Fashion with Belk + Arlene Goldstein’s Must-Haves for Women

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Hello, fabulouses, and welcome back to the blog!

Summer is slowly coming to an end, which means it is time to start thinking about fall fashion–the cute cardigans, knee-high boots, longer skirts, colorful tights and socks, and anything else that makes you feel all warm and cuddly. With so many styles from which to choose, sometimes, we fashionistas need a little help deciding on our season’s look–And that is where Belk’s “Find Your Fabulous” fall fashion style guide + Arlene Goldstein’s Most-Wanted List comes in handy! So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the styles and must-have list + photos :)

1. Complex Simplicity

In Complex Simplicity, new proportions, shape shifts and new age tailoring are just a few of the details that define this ultra modern message from over-sized and boxy silhouettes to exaggerated sleeves and new age layering. Textiles are innovative. Playing with textures is key while extreme coatings, metallic finishes, trapunto stitches, and new knits insure the absence of anything ordinary. Patterns go graphic, so count on bold contrasts. Sharpen clean lines with edgy accents, including statement jewelry in architectural shapes, structured handbags, sleek ankle boots, and the always-chic over-the-knee boots. Embrace the power of plain. Simple, spare and current!

2. His is Hers (definitely the VIP”s fav!)

His is Hers promises recast classics and a man style mash-up with a quirky kind of coolness. With a feminine twist, borrowed from the boys has never looked better. Yes, classic haberdashery with ladylike leanings. Menswear inspired layers: trousers, crisp white shirts, vests, midi skirts, very important sweaters and more. The fashion flock is going to love new breeds tweeds, luxe wools, leather, and fantastic furs. Plan on pattern mixes as new argyle, herringbone, houndstooth, and animal prints are reinvented and reworked. Consider these new neutrals and pair them fearlessly! It is no surprise to find a penchant for plaids everywhere. Felt fedoras with a Pharrell Williams vibe, satchels, scarves, bold gold chains and statement necks are just a few of the anything-but-basic accessories that complement this trend. Check out the Wine List of Fall’s favorite color palette: sangria and other exotic reds all the way to deep burgundy, merlot, and mulberry.

3. Rebel Rebel 

Play it cool with our [Belk’s] last statement, Rebel, Rebel. Just as the title suggests, this trend eases us out of our fashion comfort zone and celebrates a fierce fem that wants to break a few rules, in a good way! Expect some unexpected pairings: leather and lace, winter florals and British plaids, feminine silhouettes and moto detailing. Say “yes” to studs, nailheads, zips, quilting, and new chain treatments. Red and black is a color combo that is uncommonly trends right while sheers, pleather, dark denim, double-knits, and tweeds are a few of the textiles that send a trendy street-smart message. A passion for plaids, chokers, bold statement necks and cuffs in burnished metals, studded and belted ankle boots, and over the knee boots are just a few of the add-ons that make this style so enticing.

Women’s Most-Wanted List for Fall 2014

Calling all influencers, trendsetters and everyday fashionistas to Find Your Fabulous! It is time to rethink, rework and revitalize that wardrobe. Have no fear. It will be a breeze with Belk’s Most Wanted List featuring better than basic fashion items that will take the guesswork out of looking fresh for fall. Fabulous with a modern, southern slant.

1. Soft Pant:

Most Wanted Sunny Leigh Soft Pant_008_HR

Easy elegance is a given with a bottom that will bring a big bang to any wardrobe; softly structured and often athletic inspired. Start with solids and work your way up to bold patterns. Fem is fresher than ever with a sporty attitude.

2. Longer Skirts

Most Wanted Longer Skirt_001 (2)_HR Go over the knee, mid-calf or all the way. These new lengths are fast becoming show stopping style staples.

3. Creative Cardigan

Most Wanted Romeo and Juliet Statement Cardigan_015_HR

This sweater is the season’s must have completer piece with fresh shapes, clever trims and interesting textures. Let the layering begin!

4. Novelty Vest

Most Wanted Dolce Vida boot_006_HR

Who Wore What When? Well who knows, but if she wore it with a vest–furry, fluffy, quilted or tailored–then the look was on its way to awesome. Try it! Pair it with a longer skirt for extra style points.

5. Fashion Sweatshirt

Most Wanted Sam Edelman Sweatshirt_003_HR

On loan from the gym, this item has had more staying power than anyone could have predicted. Fabric blocking and luxe embellishments have elevated this top from “so so” to seriously chic. 

6. Tunic Top

Most Wanted Plaid Tunic_012_HR

No bells, no whistles. Go glam in a top that is pure perfection with its practical polish. High-low hems continue, while novelty fabrics feel so right.

7. Midi-Length Sheath

Most Wanted Maggy London Sheath Dress_030_HR

Take a look at a twist on a tried and true silhouette. This is the dress that turns a classic into a cause for celebration.

8. Statement Neck

Most+Wanted+Vince+Camuto+Necklace_015_LR

Logical or luxurious? Both! Bold stones, chain details and burnished metals. This jewelry item can update and refresh any old frock!

9. Over-the-Knee Boots

Most Wanted Dolce Vida boot_006_HR

Strut your stuff in this fall fashion phenomenon. They feel modern and look so stylish. Worn with slim pants or skirt, it will most definitely deserve a selfie.

10. Satchel

Most Wanted Michael Kors Tote Bag_013_HR

With its simple shape and subtle details, this classic bag captures an “of the moment” fashion vibe. Perfect to add a pop of color to any look.

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Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

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VIP DIY: Tie-Bleaching Denim

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Hello, fabulouses, and welcome back to the blog!

Do y’all remember when I bought that denim vest for two dollars at my hometown flea market? Let’s refresh our memory here *wink*

Now, because I love DIYing denim SO much, I decided to share with y’all one of my favorite denim-bleaching techniques–tie-bleaching denim–on this special VIP DIY. Ooo…I wonder what it could be *wink*

How did I create this look? Well, gather the below necessities, and let's get started!
How did I create this look? Well, gather the below items, and let’s get started!
  • A denim vest/jacket

  • 1/2 cup of chlorine bleach (I used Splash-less Clorox.)

  • A glass cup

  • 1/2 cup of water

  • A foam brush

  • Several rubber-bands or cloth ties

WARNING: Before getting started, please note that you will need to do this DIY in a well-ventilated area. Also, do not directly inhale any bleach fumes. Remember bleach will bleach. Be careful and wear old clothes! If you are sensitive to smells or bleach, do not attempt this project. 

Step 1:  Lay out your vest with the back panel facing up.
Step 1: Lay out your vest with the back panel facing up.
Step 2: Pinch a tiny piece of the denim pulling it up into a "unicorn horn". NOTE: If you have ever tie-dyed, it is the same method starting out *wink*
Step 2: Pinch a tiny piece of the denim pulling it up into a “unicorn horn”–this is very much like tie-dyeing–but we are going to use a bleach mixture instead of colored dyes.

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Step 3: Add a rubber-band or cloth tie to the bottom of your "unicorn horn".
Step 3: Add a rubber-band or cloth tie to the bottom of your “unicorn horn”.
Step 4: Add another rubber-band or cloth tie to the tabout an inch from the first tie. Get it as tight as possible.
Step 4: Add another rubber-band or cloth tie about an inch from the first tie. Remember to get it as tight as possible.
Step 5: Combine a half of cup of bleach with one forth of a cup of water.  Do NOT directly inhale bleach fumes.
Step 5: Combine a half of cup of bleach with equal parts water. This is a strong mixture!
Do NOT directly inhale bleach fumes.
Step 6: Begin painting on the bleach-water mixture to the top of the "unicorn horn". NOTE: When working with light colored denim, be extra generous with the amount bleach mixture you apply.
Step 6: Begin painting on the bleach-water mixture to the top of the “unicorn horn”–please be careful to not get the mixture on your hands or fingers. If you do, please stop immediately and wash your hands with soap and water. 

Step 7: After applying enough bleach mixture to the top not, move on to the base of the vest. Do NOT "un-bunch" the vest's base. Bleaching the base while it is bunched adds a more tie-dyed affect.
Step 7: After applying enough bleach mixture to the top, move on to the base of the vest. Do NOT “un-bunch” the vest’s base. Bleaching the base while it is bunched adds a more tie-dyed effect.
Step 8 (part 1): While your sunburst is bleaching, feel free to add mini ones in random areas on the vest.
Step 8 (part 1): While your sunburst is bleaching, feel free to add mini ones in random areas on the vest.
Step 8 (part 2):  If desired, also bleach areas of the front of your vest too. Do not be afraid to get a little creative *wink*
Step 8 (part 2): If desired, bleach other areas of the vest. Do not be afraid to get a little creative *wink* BUT remember to be very careful!
Step 9: After applying the bleach-mixture where desired, wait 7 to 10 minutes and untie the rubber-bands/cloth ties.
Step 9: After applying the bleach-mixture where desired, wait 7 to 10 minutes and untie the rubber-bands/cloth ties. If you have sensitive skin, please wear gloves designed for handling chemicals.
Step 10: Rinse your denim vest/jacket with warm water. Once it is completely rinsed, throw it in the wash and hang to try.
Step 10: Rinse your denim vest/jacket with warm water. Once it is completely rinsed, throw it in the wash and hang to try. It is recommended to not wash the vest with other clothing items. Wash it alone.
Step 11: Style an ensemble with your new and fabulous vest *wink*
Step 11: Style an ensemble with your new and fabulous vest *wink*

 

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Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Weekly Whistle: Peach N’ Gold Goddess

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Hello, fabulouses, and welcome back to the blog!

For this week’s Weekly Whistle outfit, I embraced my inner Greek goddess–playing with a flowy peach dress and a pair of strappy, braided sandals + gold toned jewelry to top it off.

This outfit was PERFECT for roaming around downtown Johnson City because it is dressy…but not so dressy that it required a pair of heels *wink* Now, let’s take a look at the snazzy outfit details! Whoop whoop!

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Dress: Forever 21

Shoes: Born, DSW

Necklace: BluKatDesign by Heather O’Cain

Headband: I cannot remember the name of the shop; however, I did buy it while visiting Blowing Rock, North Carolina a few months ago *wink*

Oh, I just love it when bloopers actually turn out to be blog-worthy *wink*
Oh, I just love it when bloopers actually turn out to be blog-worthy *wink*

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Fantastic Summer Voyage

Fantastic Summer Voyage: Sandals

Hello, fabulouses, and welcome back to the blog!

Let your feet take you on a fantastic summer voyage…in style, of course! Whether you are shopping at the plaza or hiking the trails, cute and fun sandals are a total summer must have! 
Sandals: Born, DSW (Colonial Brookwood Village, Birmingham AL)
Sandals: Born, DSW (Colonial Brookwood Village, Birmingham AL)
For casual outings, you can never go wrong with Earth tones because they go with everything! Spice it up by looking for sandals with a variety of straps, braids, or textures. If you want to branch out from subtle hues, try colorful sandals or wildly patterned ones. DSW has countless options for all kinds of cute sandals, but click here to see a few of my favorites!
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Sandals: Chaco, Mahoney's Outfitters (Johnson City, Tennessee)
Sandals: Chaco, Mahoney’s Outfitters (Johnson City, Tennessee)
For more adventurous outings, look for durable yet stylist sandals. Brands like Chaco and Teva are built to withstand heavy wearing–plus, they have so many cute options now! Check them all out here and here.
SIDE NOTE: I cannot personally testify to the durability of Teva sandals; however, I can personally testify to the awesome durability of Chaco sandals. Long story short–I have had the same pair of Chaco sandals for over three years, and they are still in fabulous condition! My green Chacos have survived three moves to three different states (it’s a miracle I did not lose one along the way because I have managed to lose at least one shoe each time we move *wink*), countless road trips all over the South/Southeast, and various other fun (and sometimes muddy and dangerous) adventures. Overall, I have been highly impressed with the brand’s overall performance–and now, I am a Chaco girl *wink* Big kudos to Chaco for making awesome, cute, comfortable and durable sandals! *high five* Now…I recently purchased a new pair of  Chaco sandals for summer (not only are they incredibly lighter than my old ones, but they are also rainbow–YES, RAINBOW) from Mahoney’s Outfitters in Johnson City, Tennessee. I will keep y’all updated on how they hold up to my random journeys *wink*
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Now, I am off to finish painting my bathroom–stay tuned to VIP Home on Monday to find out what color it will be. Yay!

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Belk’s Most Wanted List for Women from Arlene Goldstein

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Hello, fabulouses, and welcome back to the blog!

Yesterday, spring sprang; and today, the VIP is going to give you Belk’s Most Wanted List for Women from Arlene Goldstein. Now, let’s not lollygag with chit chat–let’s take a look at Arlene’s style statement ideas that are perfect for “Modern. Southern. Style.” See what I did there *wink*

A sleeveless jacket--This piece has simple, cool urban elegance. Moto detailing, classic denim styling or short and boxy—you decide. The options are endless.
Sleeveless jacket–This piece has simple, cool urban elegance. Moto detailing, classic denim styling or short and boxy—you decide. The options are endless.
Soft pant--Spring’s favorite bottom is softly structured and comes in a range of prints and fabrications. We give you permission to wear pattern with pattern for a sophisticated spin, but keep it monochrome.
Soft pant–Spring’s favorite bottom is softly structured and comes in a range of prints and fabrications. We give you permission to wear pattern with pattern for a sophisticated spin, but keep it monochrome.
New maxi--Not the time to skirt the issue. Find the perfect long skirt and add instant cool to your wardrobe. Gathers, slits and “Oh, wow!” prints guarantee the update.
New maxi–Not the time to skirt the issue. Find the perfect long skirt and add instant cool to your wardrobe. Gathers, slits and “Oh, wow!” prints guarantee the update.
Boxy top--New shapes define the spring season and this item is one of the best. Easy and elegant, it complements and refreshes any bottom.
Boxy top–New shapes define the spring season and this item is one of the best. Easy and elegant, it complements and refreshes any bottom.
Updated jacket--From boyfriends to blazers and moto-inspired to bomber styles, the finished look is fabulous when you add a jacket.
Updated jacket–From boyfriends to blazers and moto-inspired to bomber styles, the finished look is fabulous when you add a jacket.
Shift dress: Chic, away-from-the-body silhouettes go from desk to dinner in a fashion minute. Lace, sheer insets and animal prints add the awesome. Dress up!
Shift dress: Chic, away-from-the-body silhouettes go from desk to dinner in a fashion minute. Lace, sheer insets and animal prints add the awesome. Dress up!
Layered necklaces--More is more so dare to dazzle. Group unexpected strands for a look that’s uniquely you. Let the layering begin.
Layered necklaces–More is more so dare to dazzle. Group unexpected strands for a look that’s uniquely you. Let the layering begin.
Black and white--Go graphic with spring’s coolest color combo. Check out color blocking, banding, bold stripes and prints. Feel free to mix it up.
Black and white–Go graphic with spring’s coolest color combo. Check out color blocking, banding, bold stripes and prints. Feel free to mix it up.
Ladylike handbag--Just hold it! Smaller framed satchels with a femme feel are chic and of the moment. A pop of bold color really works.
Ladylike handbag–Just hold it! Smaller framed satchels with a femme feel are chic and of the moment. A pop of bold color really works.
Chunky heels--Blocked, stacked, up high, down low! Get ready for sturdier, kinder heels that are easy on the feet and the eye--materials matter.
Chunky heels–Blocked, stacked, up high, down low! Get ready for sturdier, kinder heels that are easy on the feet and the eye–materials matter.

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Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn