Frank and Fabulous

Smart shopping

2013-04-30T17:50:00.000-07:00

I know that many people are enticed by companies like forever21 that offer low prices on trendy pieces. Just the other day in fact, I visited forever21 in search of a fabulous bright colored jacket at a low price. I found my jacket. It was super cute, 35$ and not returnable (I always feel like this says something about how the store views their merchandise)...

After I bought the jacket I decided to hit Macys for some new lipgloss. While I was walking through toward the Lancome counter I spotted no less than three jackets that were almost identical to the one I had just purchased. Of course I had to check them out. None of these jackets had an original retail price of 35$ or less but they were all on sale for 35-40$...And given their higher quality feel, and the return policy of the store I knew that they were a much better value for my money. I immediately felt like I had not done my due diligence as the great shopper I consider myself to be. Shame on me.

Two of the higher quality jackets I could have had if I had been a better shopper....

A INC Jacket (I think this particular brand is an excellent value for your money. They make high quality clothing that lasts really well)...regularly $99.50, on sale for $37.00

or, this Alfani blazer, origionaly $79.00 on clearance for 80% off

I know we all have our thing, and if you are reading my blog then fashion and shopping are some of your things... BE SMART SHOPPERS! Always search out the best deal...it's so rewarding.

Minimal accessories....

2013-04-14T09:45:00.000-07:00

Like it or don't but we are moving toward simplicity with jewelry. Here are some great examples of how you can rock the current trend.

Rock some Statement Earrings...

Rock one chunky necklace ...and try wearing very small earrings with it...

Wear bangles or a cuff...exclusively....

The Key this spring is to mix and match fabulous pops of color and to do it in a perfectly simple way. Good luck fashionistas!

TOP TEN SPRING MUST HAVES

2013-04-11T20:10:00.000-07:00

Accessories... a super easy way to change up an outfit you already own

1. Cat Eye Sunglasses- I LOVE this trend. It is subtly bold.

2. Big Watches

3.Minimalist approach to accessories...Pick one piece and rock it. Gone are the days of piling on every accessorie in your box of jewels all at once.

Shoes...
4. Platforms with cut-outs!

Hair...

The first rule of hair is that you should rock what looks good on you. Don't try to wear a style that doesn't flatter your coloring or face shape....

5. Short and sassy

6. Long Sexy Natural Hair
Color...

Colors:

7.Chartruce, neon, black and white,gold...

Bottoms:
8. High waisted shorts, skirts or pants

9.Colored or patterned jeans

Finally,

10. peakabo clothing

How to rock patterned jeans

2013-03-26T18:49:00.000-07:00

Patterned Jeans are the thing to own this Spring! Here are a couple of tips for making this trend work for you...

First, be aware of your shape and choose patterns that compliment your figure. For example: darker jeans are going to make you look thinner. This is always true whether the jeans are patterned or not. Also always true, smaller patterns are going to make you look smaller too. Final tip, monochromatic patterns will also tend to be more flattering. If you have a boyish figure and are pretty small then you can probably get away with most patterned pants and you don't need to spend a ton of time assessing. If you are like most of us though, you will have to be aware of what works for you and stay away from things that don't flatter.

These striped jeans are super fun but the large pattern and (stripes eeek) will only flatter someone who is quite small. If you are not a size 6 or less- skip this look.

This pattern is a great choice for ANY size because they are monochromatic color schemes and small patterns. They don't draw unwanted attention to the wobbily bits that we all try to hide...

I really cant help but post some of my faves...

Ombre...

2013-03-21T10:12:00.001-07:00

This fantabulous look is everywhere this season.

And I am LOVING it! I have heard people saying that it is on the way out but for west-coasters it is going to stick around for a while, so give it a try. It is very low maintenance and it looks great with beachy waves!

Ombre is such a form of art. The way it turns out will completely depend on your stylist and how descriptive you are about what you want. Bringing some pictures of Ombre that you like is key. Talk to your stylist about what you do and do not like in each picture. Choose colors that compliment your skin tone and use common descriptive terms that your stylist is likely to understand.

SJP is rocking the WHISPER...

Rachel Bilson's Ombre SPEAKS to me...

This Ombre is SHOUTING look at my fabulous doo!

MY FAVORITE SPRING TREND!

2013-03-19T17:59:00.000-07:00

As many of you know I am a hairstylist and a designer- And I love being in on the most recent trends and figuring out creative ways to rock them.

There is so much fabulous color going on right now (and believe me, I LOVE it!) that I am feeling a serious tendency toward black and white tops. Classic and stunning, these colors are the perfect compliment to those bright skinny jeans you are currently rocking!

Why Buy for a Cause?

2013-03-16T11:13:00.001-07:00

We live in a world that is driven by consumerism....

A world where technology allows us to see the struggle of people all around the world via internet and television. Fair trade and cause-worthy purchasing is an awesome way for us, as consumers to change the world by making each purchase count toward something bigger.

Why not use your consuming power to change a life?...

Here are a few ethical, cause-worthy purchases that I think are fabulous... and who have made it big with Cause Marketing....

Check Out Tom's Shoes and Eyewear...

And Krochet Kids...

New Partners for 31EIGHT!

2013-03-05T11:14:00.001-08:00

I started 31eight a year ago with Boaz Crawford. We put our first line of T-shirts out this last September. Our goal is to help provide hope to those people around us who are lost in the hopeless situations of this world. This first year we are focusing on supporting non-profits like compassion2one and the Tronie Foundation who help people who are caught up in, and enslaved by human trafficking. The T-shirts are beautiful and we are very excited to have made a product that so many of you have chosen to support! Thank you.

As we move forward and continue to grow we are very happy to announce our partnership with two other charitable companies who are also working to help bring hope to those less fortunate. First, we are joining forces with Crux Watches. If you haven't checked out this company do it now! This amazing company gives 10% of their profits to help support various social causes.

Secondly, we are joining forces with Maebeads. Their founder Leila Carras is a local artist who makes hand blown, all american glass, beads and pendants. She is highly acclaimed and has had her art featured in museums in New York City. She will be featuring her hand blown glass hearts on 31eight's site, donating a portion of each sale to help end human trafficking.

Please join us in welcoming these new partners!

New Cause-Worthy Purchase by 31Eight

2013-01-08T15:42:00.000-08:00

Let us know what you think!

https://www.dropbox.com/s/qswo2u2grpvq9rd/31Eight-LineSheet2012-13-003.pdf

OBSESSING about color-blocking

2012-03-11T16:36:00.000-07:00

Color-blocking is a trend I can seriously get behind this season. It is everywhere and when worn correctly,it can be for everyone.
Two things to keep in mind when rocking this trend are proportions and colors.
Blocks of color can tend to create lines of proportion on your body. Make sure that the lines being created on your body are the most flattering for your shape.
Also, make sure you pick colors that look fabulous with your most important assets, your hair, skin and eyes. Keeping these two important factors in mind will insure that you are presenting your most fabulous you as you rock this trend.

Here are a few examples of fun, successful color-blocking

Borrowed straight from the pages of INSTYLE

Seriously Sexy and Off The Shoulder

2012-01-13T19:26:00.001-08:00

The very popular off the shoulder look is the perfect way to bring sexy into the workplace without looking skanky. Try a casual look like this one or go wild with something a little more dressy. Either way the subtle sexiness of showing a little shoulder is a serious DO.

Springing into winter

2012-01-05T15:18:00.000-08:00

This winter in Washington has been so mild that it almost feels like spring. It makes me want to wear all kinds of bright colors all together as a kind of "welcome mat" to the warmth and beauty around me. What bright hues do you like to mix and match?

The Beginning

2011-07-17T14:35:00.001-07:00

I grew up in a family who put very little emphasis on clothing or appearance. My parents taught me to be more concerned with character than appearance (which is absolutely right, by the way). There is nothing wrong however, with keeping up with the maintenance that goes along with living in this tent of ours.
Ironically, after college I went into the beauty industry- becoming a hairstylist. Now I am feeling a need to expand my styling skills by making my way into the world of fashion. I love doing hair- (obviously the most important accessory) and I am going to love designing clothing that people will feel fabulous in...and more importantly, that will support a really awesome cause.
I am so excited to combine the passions I have developed with the principles that my parents taught me growing up. So here's to a wonderful journey. I am looking forward to great things, anticipating a lot of learning and expecting lots of surprises. I'm excited to be sharing this journey with you- perhaps it will inspire you a little.

"For The Times They Are A-Changin'"

2011-07-15T19:32:00.000-07:00

Some of you loyal readers may have noticed that we have made some changes to the blog and we hope that you love them as much as we do! The image, isn't the only thing that is changing though and we wanted to give you a little update on what we have been pondering the past few months during our blogging silence.

When we started this blog we knew we wanted it to be fun and both saw it as a learning experience and stepping stone to "SOMETHING", we just didn't know what. As we blogged together and had many conversations about where our hearts were and what really drove us as people and we discovered a lot about ourselves. All of this pondering led us to take a break from the blog to regroup and refocus, finding direction together and individually.

We have decided to redirect this blog to follow a fabulous journey that Stephanie is

currently on as she follows her passion of designing clothes. Abbey has started a blog of her own that chronicles the stylish life of mommy-hood in the city which you should check out here, and will continue to do guest blogs on topics such as "Growing Out Your Hair", sassy wear for new moms and her favorite WHAT WERE THEY THINKING? pieces.

Now don't fret, we will still have fabulous posts with our honest opinions on the current trends. And of course welcome your suggestions as to what to review or style. Only there will be more about the clothing industry, fashion projections <can we get a Hurrah! for that one> and an inside peek at what drives a designer.

We hope you will continue to follow us as we follow our hearts.

Perfect Fit

2011-03-28T08:08:00.000-07:00

Clothes are an expression of who we are and all of us want to put our best foot forward. In order to ensure we do that we need to wear clothing that fits us well. Since each of our bodies are unique and one of a kind sometimes it is hard to find things that fit perfectly and accentuate our assets. Stephanie for example, has a voluptuous derrière and often has to have the waist of her jeans taken in. Abbey is 5'1, so as you can imagine hemming her pants is a must. Odds are that you too have a hard time finding things that fit perfectly on your unique and one of a kind body. So when making a purchase allot some money in your budget for tailoring.

You may be wondering, "How do I find a good tailor?" and that is an excellent question. Some department stores such as Nordstrom and The Buckle offer tailoring as a service to their customers. If you are shopping elsewhere however, our advice is to ask around for a recommendation. You might ask a friend who they use or your local boutique are usually more than happy to make a recommendation.

A few of our recommendations for the PNW Area:

* In Olympia, Yi's Alterations is an excellent place to get alterations. They are speedy, reasonably priced and they do very good work.

* In Seattle City Custom Tailor & Dry Cleaners is inexpensive, speedy as well.

* In Portland DZ Alterations & Tailor Shop has been a lifesaver on more than one occasion.

Average Price Point For Services (based on our experiences)

*Regular pant hem is between 10 and 13 dollars

*Complicated pant hem is between 14 and 26 dollars

*Waist alteration is between 14 and 35 dollars

*Dress hem is around 20 dollars

*Rush fees can be extra, but ask how fast they can have it done

before mentioning the word rush

*The cost of tailoring varies dramatically so make sure you ask about cost when you are fitted.

If you can provide a great recommendation in your area we would love to post it, so let us know!

A Tribute To A Legend

2011-03-23T08:07:00.000-07:00

At the age of 79 Elizabeth Taylor has left this earth.

A legend in so many ways it is hard to sum up the legacy she left behind. There is not an area of the industry her hands didn't grace. Child actress, stunning adult screen phenomenon, jewelry designer, fashion icon, perfume expert and activist she truly has left shoes too large for anyone to fill. As we mentioned in our random round-up of facts about us, we spent much of our time together watching old movies. In doing so we have watched many of Ms. Taylor's greater performances and are so very sad she is gone. And the scent of "White Diamonds" will always bring back memories for Abbey as her grandmother wore it religiously in the fall.

We thought we would leave you this Wednesday with some of our favorite images of this amazing icon. The hats, the jewelry, oh the jewelry, the hair and those eyes.

All so uniquely Elizabeth Taylor.

Ms. Taylor, the curtain has fallen too soon and you will be missed.

*Images via: dressing vintage, Perfume Reviews Blog, Movie Awards, Fashion's Most Wanted

Tips and Tricks- Shoes!

2011-03-21T08:38:00.000-07:00

Property of A.H.

Here is a quickie that we just learned, courtesy of the Nate Berkus Design Show, to stretch out your shoes if they are just a bit small. Put a bag of ice in them. Brilliant and simple! We love this for two reasons. First, because most of us have one that is a bit wider or longer than the other. You can use this trick to stretch that once shoe that doesn't fit quite as well as the other. The other reason this is great is for the inevitable, "I love these shoes, but they are a bit tight, so I can't wear them for long periods of time" conundrum. What a brilliant solution! What are your favorite tips and tricks for making your shoes more comfortable?

Diggin' the 70's vibe!

2011-03-18T08:33:00.000-07:00

We are totally inspired by all the throwback to the 70's. We love the bell bottoms, which flatter almost everyone because they even out our thighs with our calves. The retro prints, the big chunky earthy jewelery, the tie dye, and the silky boho tops are so inspiring! Add in the seemingly effortless style of the 70's hairdos and you have sweet summer perfection.All of the great parts of the 70's are back and ready for your warm embrace!

Fabulous Bell bottom Trouser pants!

Tie Dye Done Right

Parker Tie Neck Silk 'Georgette' Maxi Dress

All Of These Rings Are Fabulous and on Trend!

Long and Luscious Waves
How will you incorporate this style? Let us know!
Or better yet send us a picture of some of your ideas and finds!

Go Green

2011-03-17T08:07:00.000-07:00

In honor of St. Patrick's Day we thought we would bring you a few of our favorite clover-colored items. Enjoy!

Lilly Pulitzer

Rachel Leigh Gumball Ring

Max and Chloe

House of Harlow

Hobo Spring Green

Tolani

Ella Moss Sunset Tunic

Forever 21

BCBG Emerald Floral V-Neck

Crazy About Her Style!

2011-03-15T15:48:00.000-07:00

We are self-professed followers of The Bachelor and love chatting about it on Tuesday mornings. Anyone else out there look forward to the water cooler chats of Tuesdays? Well this season is no exception and now that it has aired on both coasts and he has picked SPOILER ALERT!!!!!! (we need to do that for all of our friends who DVR'd it and will be watching it later)

Emily, we are thrilled to do a short run down on the little ladie's style. Our fellow blogger over at The Possessionista has done the phenomenal and incredibly time consuming job of tracking down much of what Emily wore while on the show. We are truly in awe. Interestingly enough many of the outfits that we love are from Forever 21! Emily has a knack for mixing those pieces with her gorgeous designer shoes and jewelry.

The new prints and deal on the Maxi dresses are SO tempting!

(See link below picture for information)

Here are some of our favorites:

Ruffle Dress located by one of Possessionista's readers.

Floral Romper! Our favorite was the addition of the
white blazer in the evening. Great idea!

Full view of this amazing tunic that appears to be out of stock at Forever 21,
but we are verifying that as we speak.

The Gorgeous Maxi Dress that Possessionista tracked down and
has all of the new prints and how to order it here.

Not the exact ring she wore, but an oh- so similar-we-are-craving-it-in-our-seat find on Etsy by yet again Possessionista.

Her incredible nail polish (Click on image to purchase).

So in closing it seems like Forever 21 was a hit with many of the ladies and

some fabulous rings and jewelry can be found on Etsy that would pair

well with the bargain finds and high end finishing pieces.

What was your favorite look from the show?

*Images from Possessionista, Forever 21, Amazon, US Weekly.

Orange:The New Pink

2011-03-02T08:34:00.000-08:00

Orange is making a serious comeback...AGAIN. This spring look for all different shades of beautiful orange. Make sure that you keep your skin tone in mind when you choose a shade because not all shades of orange work for everyone. Below are a few examples of orange done right, that we love.

Source: Glamour Magazine

A Soft Orange Looks Beautiful on Blondes

Sometimes Just A Splash of Color is Enough

This Top is a Fabulous Mixture of Several Current Trends

How will you wear Orange this season? We love Hello Bella's decision to go for Honeysuckle. Not sure what it looks like? Pop over and take a peek! Make sure you tell her we sent you!

Quick Clip: The Flip Is Back!

2011-02-28T08:48:00.000-08:00

As promised in this post here is an update on Abbey's journey of growing out her hair. Below are some progression pictures to show how we have arrived, at long last, at this point. And we are pleased to announce that this new length allows a favorite styling trick, the flip. As the sections continue their journey to her shoulders, this option gives some sass and character while in transit. This length is also great for headbands and longer earrings. We will update you on other ideas!

To do this at home dry as you would normally. Then put a smoother all over and flat iron in sections starting with the bottom pieces. Straighten them and at the end pull away to create a little flip. Continue this until you reach the top sections and then straighten these pulling straight out and let them fall straight down. Using styling paste apply to the ends and part way up the hair shaft in certain sections to keep it from looking fly away. Hair spray and you are done! PLEASE let us know if these instructions work at home and if you need additional tips and tricks!

The Flip!

February 2011

January 2011

October/November 2010

September 2010

Starting Point- July 2010

Hot Picks for Spring: Pants

2011-02-21T09:16:00.000-08:00

As you are starting to build your spring wardrobe keep in mind that most of the leggings/Jeggings that you wore this winter can still be worn in the spring with the appropriate top (see our previous post here). Contrary to some reports we think that Jeggings are still in style for spring and if worn correctly can flatter a variety of body types. Some styles to add to your collection for spring are pictured below. Look for silk, linen and twill fabrics that will give you lots of room to breath as the temperatures heat up. Also, keep your eyes wide open for all the super cute cropped styles that scream spring and summer!

These Silk Pants are fabulously different. Because silk is a more formal yet comfortable material they can be dressed up for an evening on the town or dressed down for lunch with your girlfriends.

Via

We are really liking the army green shades for spring. They are a wonderful neutral that will bring out an earthy edge in your wardrobe.

Via

This more casual version of the cropped army colored pants would be perfect on a lady of shorter stature.

Via

We love the length of these pants, especially if you are going out for an evening and may encounter cooler temperatures. Also, the zipper details give the pants a little something extra and sets them apart.

Via

You can't go wrong with a nice fitting pair of linen pants. They are a staple to any spring wardrobe. We love the trouser look for spring and summer too.

Via

These Printed Cropped leggings are fabulous. They cut brings a feminine flare to the harsher camo print.

Via

We hope you enjoyed our first spring selection-look for more picks as

spring and summer near!

Pretty and Prego~ Weathering The Storm

2011-02-18T08:32:00.000-08:00

It is so easy to get excited about Spring, trust us, we are itching to let our toes peep out of those adorable shoes Spring promises. But since this weather is hanging on we thought we would showcase a few tips and tricks for wearing sweaters while pregnant. The belted style in particular is really popular right now, but there is a right way and a "are you having twins" way, to wear this look. The latter literally will make you look much heavier than you are, which no one wants!

WRONG

Belted where the belt is originally attached.

WRONG

Belted on a slope above the bump.

RIGHT!

Forgo the belt and thin down!

Try to elongate your look, especially if you are short like Abbey. Do your best to be aware of where you are cutting off the line of sight and how it makes the bump look. And try out different lengths with your layers, adds dimension and color to your basics. Happy Dressing!

Hot Picks For Spring: Tops

2011-02-16T08:52:00.000-08:00

Even though we are still in the dead of winter it is time to start thinking about, and building our spring wardrobe. As is our practice we have picked out some of our favorite spring tops so that we can watch them, and wait for them to go on sale so that we can snap them up. What we are really loving this spring is all the sophisticated detailing combined with comfortable, breathable and fabulous looking fabrics. The combination makes for a very put together, yet effortless look. We welcome you to follow our lead and share your favorite spring tops with us!

This look is cool and casual and the colors are amazing! We really love the mix of textures, the uneven hem and the fringe.

Winter Kate fringed Burnout velvet Cardigan

We love this DVF sweater. It would work beautifully on a lady with a smallish chest!

DVF "Meka" sweater

This beautiful silk top sparkles for all to admire while still giving you an effortlessly simple appeal.

Parker Embellished Silk Tunic

Fabulous and effortless. This top can be dressed down, as pictured, for daytime or dressed up with a few well placed accessories for an evening on the town!

Robert Rodriguez Print Silk Top

This cardigan is great because it has a lot of stitch detailing at the bottom and it would be the perfect cover up for a simple t-shirt or tank.

Leifsdottir Stripe Ruffled Cardigan

Nautical, Striped and Flowy...This shirt is a must have!

DVF "Dugan" top

This top is so great for spring because the brown color transitions well from the black of winter and silk is light but warm.

Haute Hippie Snake Print Silk Tunic

This sweater is very cool. We really like the texture, that gives it a more casual appeal and the metallic color that adds some sass.

LaROK 'Jillian' Metalic Sweater Knit Poncho

Steph loves most things sparkly and this shirt is no exception. This shirt is well made and will sit well on your body. The color would be beautiful on most skin tones.

Dolan Sequin Circle Top