Lulu Bella Boutique

closets

2012-02-16T21:30:00.003-05:00

Efficient and Organized

Source: houzz.com via Kathryn on Pinterest

Feminine Chic

Source: houzz.com via Kathryn on Pinterest

Built ins and a center island keep everything organized

Source: houzz.com via Kathryn on Pinterest

Shoes, Shoes and more Shoes!

Source: houzz.com via Kathryn on Pinterest

Elegance and Class

Source: houzz.com via Kathryn on Pinterest

Classic, minimal style

Source: houzz.com via Kathryn on Pinterest

The ultimate Men's Closet

Source: houzz.com via Kathryn on Pinterest

This Valentines Day...

2012-02-09T15:01:00.003-05:00

bee charmed!

20% OFF all Nashelle and Dogeared Jewelry
(Use code: CHARM)

Take an extra 30%OFF all Sale Merchandise
(use code:EXTRA30)

www.southmoonunder.com
twitter @southmoonunder

The Best Boots for Your Legs

2012-02-09T12:21:00.004-05:00

It’s not too much to ask for a pair that actually fits, no matter the size of your calves.

If You Have Thick Calves

Look for: Elastic gussets, stretchy leather or fabric, buckles, or laces for extra give. Also, an angled cuff (not one that cuts straight across) creates a flattering curve on the leg.

Avoid: Pull-on styles that are hard to get into, boots that end at the widest part of the calf muscle, and wraparound straps that accentuate any fullness.

Try wearing them: With tights or leggings in a matching color to create a long, lean line

If You Have Short Legs

Look for: Heels or wedges to lengthen the legs visually. “Stick with a streamlined design with vertical accents—zippers or laces—so the eye moves upward instead of side to side,” says Meghan Cleary, a shoe expert and the author of The Perfect Fit ($13, amazon.com).

Avoid: Square toes, straps, and slouchy cuts that add width.

Try wearing them: With a pencil skirt or slim pants to continue the sleek, elongating effect.

If You Have Wide Feet

Look for: Round or almond-shaped (rather than pointy) toes that offer plenty of room and slim heels for a touch of femininity. “A zipper that opens to the sole is easiest to slip your feet into,” says Tousif Ghani, a store manager for Geox in New York City.

Avoid: “Broadening details, like buckles or straps, near the ball of the foot,” says shoe designer Chie Mihara. Chunky heels also look masculine.

Try wearing them: With trousers that skim the toe box, to break up the width of the foot.

If You Have Skinny Calves

Look for: Anything with flexibility—buckles, laces, stretchy material—so the boots can mold to the calves, says Ghani. A slim ankle style also tends to fit well. Make legs look curvier with a bold color, like plum or gray, or three-dimensional details like a ruffle.

Avoid: Slouchy cuts. “More than an inch of space between the boot and the leg exacerbates the issue,” says Mihara.

Try wearing them: With contrasting tights and a patterned skirt to add more dimension.

Courtesy of: Yolanda Wikiel - Real Simple Magazine

8 Iconic Styles made famous by Style Icons

2012-02-05T22:43:00.000-05:00

"Trends come and go, but style is forever" These 8 trends have become iconic fashion-must haves, just as stylish now as they were back then....

Ballet Flat

Audrey Hepburn is the picture of elegance in ballet flats

White Silk Blouse

Violet-eyed star, Elizabeth Taylor looks stunning in a white silk blouse.

The Classic Black Bag

Former First Lady, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis always carried the perfect ladylike bag.

Equestrian (Riding) Boots

Princess Diana never went a day without looking immaculately put-together, even when out in the fields.

Black Tailored Blazer

The waifish model, Kate Moss came up in the '90s, but her style has only gotten more major. Take note of her way with a black blazer.

Wide Leg Pant

Wide legged pants, a classic blouse, a tailored jacket, and stylish loafers make up the basic formula for Katherine Hepburn’s iconic style, along with a long and lean silhouette. No one can ever match her unmistakable sense of style, but it can serve as an inspiration.

Shift Dress

Nationally known supermodel Twiggy is known for her svelte frame, super long lashes and her colorful mod shift dresses.

The Little Black Dress

As Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s – Audrey Hepburn’s dress designed by Hubert de Givenchy style epitomized the standard for wearing little black dresses, accessorized with pearls, as was frequently seen throughout the early 1960s

2012-02-04T23:45:00.002-05:00

5 Style Rules To Break This Winter

2012-02-04T01:36:00.003-05:00

With all the casual get-togethers on the horizon (like super bowl shindigs and stag parties on Valentine’s Day), we want to look our best. But no need to be confined to a sartorial status quo. Here are 5 easy ways to shake things up… just enough.!

1. White!

Creamy leather bags, bright white denim tucked into rugged boots, and winter white cords with cozy sweaters.

2. Plaids, meet stripes.

Don’t be afraid of a little pattern power struggle. A tartan tie and striped sport shirt can get along after all.

3. Bring outerwear in.

Plan whole all-day outfits using fall jackets. Top a maxi with a cropped leather jacket or try a tweed blazer over a T-shirt and jeans.

4. Daytime dancing shoes.

Swap in formal footwear with everyday looks. Just picture: patent pumps will do wonders for cropped jeans and a drapey top.

5. The dusky showdown.

Mix and match brown, black, and navy. Our advice: dim the lights and make sure you can still distinguish the different pieces.

courtesy of RueLaLa.com

Win a $1,500 RUGBY Outfit

2012-02-03T20:00:00.003-05:00

Enter to win a $1,500 wardrobe from RUGBY, Ralph Lauren

Good Luck!!

2012-02-02T13:03:00.002-05:00

"Hidden Love Notes Contest"

* Visit GILT GROUPE to Find and click 3 love notes hidden in our Valentine's Day sales for a chance to win a romantic getaway for two. PLUS an automatic 10 percent discount on your next purchase awaits you at checkout * Click Here to Begin!

Not yet a Gilt Groupe Member? Join Now!!

Colorful Jewlery

2012-02-01T14:39:00.000-05:00

In 2012 everything colorful is in style, including jewelry! Here are a few pieces currently available at Lulu Bella Boutique that will brighten up any outfit.

BANGLE BRACELETS

These colorful enamel bracelets are the perfect accent to any outfit, wear them individually or stack on a few for a more fun look! Janna Conner Bangles - Available in Blue and White

ALHAMBRA CLOVER JEWELRY

Made iconic by designer Van Cleef & Arpels, the four leaf clover design has become a coveted design.

Teal Clover 'Alhambra' Earrings

Mother of Pearl 'Alhambra' Clover Necklace

PASTEL PEARLS

Three stretch pastel pearl bracelets

Visit www.lulubellaboutique.com to find even more colorful styles!

Thanks for shopping!

Spring 2012 Fashion

2012-02-01T00:46:00.004-05:00

"Be gone, grey clouds of winter! Spring has landed in the world of fashion in its brightest form yet (bar circa 1981) - meet the new neons and super shock colours"

2012 Trend Report

2012-01-27T16:02:00.000-05:00

Courtesy of Elle Magazine

2012 is the year of bright colors and exciting fashion trends. So pull out your favorite pieces and begin the mixing and matching!

Coral and all of the other pastel shades are a must have for spring 2012. The soft, feminine shades are going to be hitting stores hard, and I am sure you have some bright items in your closet that maybe were too much for past seasons.

Warm colors are an ideal day to night transition. Reuse base pieces while creating completely different looks. This coral print dress above is a prime example - on the left you see the model in a daytime look with the belt, espradrilles, a bright accent color purse and a chunky coral necklace, tying the whole look together!

As the weather warms up, so should your wardrobe!

Want the look for less? Check out these colorful options, available now at Lulu Bella Boutique!

Amanda Uprichard Silk 'Penny' Dress
Alice & Olivia Blue Silk Wrap Dress
French Connection Multi-Color Wizard Dress
Amanda Uprichard 3/4 Sleeve Red Silk Dress
Eight Sixty Royal Blue Silk Ruffle Dress

Every closet must have... denim skinny jeans

2012-01-24T22:01:00.000-05:00

Fashion styles may come and go, but one constant that never seems to go out of style is a great pair of skinny jeans.

The latest (and always in fashion) look are super slim and super sexy. They come in lots of great washes, lengths, and styles, so you are sure to find the perfect skinny jeans for anytime of year or any occassion!

Lulu Bella Boutique has a great variety when it comes to jeans, skinny jeans in particular. Check out the latest styles from today's hottest designers.

J BRAND 914 Cigarette Low Rise Skinny Jeans, Ink Wash

J BRAND 14" Low Rise Cigarette Leg Skinny Jeans

PAIGE PREMIUM DENIM 'Skyline' 5 Pocket Ankle Peg Skinny Jean

HELMUT LANG Skinny Leg White Cords

MOSSIMO Skinny Denim Legging (Jegging)

CITIZENS OF HUMANITY 'Amber' Mid Rise Boot Cut Jean

PAIGE PREMIUM DENIM 'Laurel Canyon' Low Rise Bootcut Jeans

Skinny Jeans are super versatile, you can wear them casually, out at night, to the office... you name it skinnys are always an option.

Looking for shoes, tops, jackets or jewelry to pair with your new skinny jeans visit Lulu Bella Boutique

2012-01-16T22:55:00.001-05:00

CurrentlyObsessed is one of my new, favorite website for fashion bloggers. It is a mix between IFB (independent fashion bloggers) and Pintrest.

Check out all of the blogs and super stylish fashion picks.

Two CurrentlyObsessed Blogs that I am CurrentlyObsessed with: The Fashionista Next Door & What Courtney Wore

4 Fashion Risks Worth Taking This Season

2011-12-30T20:10:00.002-05:00

How to wear the look of-the-moment without being overly trendy...

1. Printed Pants

Wear with: A blazer or trench style jacket and black heels or, a black sleeveless silk top -and sparkly heels

2. Scuba Skirts

Wear with: A loose racerback silk top, pumps and bangle bracelets or a longsleeve button down oxford polo shirt and a pair of sexy pumps

3. Jumpsuits

Wear with: Solid color pumps and a bold necklace

4. Sequined Shorts

Wear with: A cutout sleeveless top or a chunky sweater

2011-12-25T16:28:00.004-05:00

All that Glitters

2011-12-15T01:33:00.003-05:00

This season is all about metallic, shimmer and sequin... a combination that is absolutely ideal for the Holiday season.

Here are a few chic, sexy, sophisticated pieces that will always make you look and feel like a star!

French Connection Sequin Stretch 'princess' Top

Betsey Johnson Gold Sequin Slingback Pumps

Nicole Miller Collection Metallic Gold Silk Dress

Robert Rodriguez Silk Dress with Sequin Decor

Tory Burch Boots

2011-12-06T01:46:00.002-05:00

Tory Burch is overall one of my favorite designers, and her shoes... to die for! If you have ever seen my closet you can tell that I am a bit obsessed with all her shoes, sandals, heels, boots and flats... I have them all and wear them ALL the time!

If you don't have the designer budget, there some similar styles that you will love. Below are examples available now at Lulu Bella Boutique

Some of my favorite boots of this season...

Tory Burch 'Salma' Riding Boot $495.00

Tory Burch 'Blaire' Leather Riding Boot $495.00

Tory Burch 'Melrose' Ankle Boot $395.00

The Look for Less...

Tommy Hilfiger 'Wales' Ankle Boot

Volatile 'Date Night' Black Leather Boot

Fashion on Display

2011-12-04T00:40:00.001-05:00

In addition to fashion I absolutely love interior design. Naturally, one of my all time favorite rooms in any home is the closet.

Often times we just think of our closets as a storage space. Somewhere to put our stuff so it is out of the way. Others hate their closets because they may be going through some insecure times or be working to get back into that size 4 (which of course ALL of your clothes are - but you aren't).

I feel that every woman (and man) should have a closet that shows off their personal style, is a place where you can feel relaxed, get glam and of course, display all of your fabulous pieces. Your closet should be however you like it, it should feel like home.

Here are a few tips for creating your dream closet:

1. Clear the Clutter: consolidate; go thru everything and make some decisions... what to keep, what to donate and what to sell. Yes, sell - these days there are tons of consignment/resale stores that will take your new/gently worn fashionable pieces! If you have not worn it in a year, you probably are not going to so it needs to go.
2. Upgrade your Hangers: this sounds silly, but having all the same hangers can do a world of difference. It will make your space look and feel less messy. I suggest these Real Simple ultra slimline hangers, only $29.99 for a set of 50.
3. Hang it up: Hanging your clothes is the best way to create a visually appealing space that is also extremely practical and will save you tons of time when looking for what you want to wear. This way you can easily pull pieces to create various fashionable outfits. And please, be sure ALL of your hangers face the same way!
4. Shelves: shelving, not dressers but open shelves are extremely useful for storing all of those bulky, large items such as bags and purses, they are also great for organizing your shoes and other accessories (and out of season items).
5. Decor: once you are cleaned up, then you can begin the fun part... decorating. If you have a walk in closet add an accent rug, a chic light fixture, large full length mirror, a makeup stand... you can find these items at any local store, but you can also add a personal touch by picking items at yard sales/thrift shops and fix them up! This allows you to customize your new additions while staying within in a reasonable budget.

Hopefully I got you inspired to give yourself a closet makeover. If you need a bit more of a push (and some fabulous ideas) just look at the beautiful closets below.

Look for Less: Spike Pumps

2011-12-01T21:40:00.001-05:00

When Christian Louboutin first came out with the Spike Pump I really was not too hot on it. But I have really come to love the style.

The edgy meets girly chic look has become more popular than ever and now tons of designers are putting their own spin on the look. Meaning that you no longer have to drop thousands to get a pair!

Christian Louboutin

'Lady Peep Spike'

and

'Bridget's Back Ankle Boot'

Christian Louboutin 'Lady Peep Spike'
Retail: $1,395.00

Christian Louboutin 'Bridget's Back'
Retail: $2,685.00

THE LOOK FOR LESS....

SAM EDELMAN

Renzo Black Boots

Sam Edelman - Renzo, womens killer black suede ankle boots with a stud and jewel encrusted heel. The boots also feature a side zip fastening, padded leopard print insole and an 11.5cm heel. Suede upper, manmade linking and sole.

Retail Price: $314.00

Fashionista: Lauren Conrad

2011-11-29T08:29:00.001-05:00

Lauren Conrad on her LC by Lauren Conrad Line - courtesy of Cosmopolitan

Ever since her debut on Laguna Beach morphed into the Hills, I have loved Lauren Conrad's style.

The mix of laid back feminine style and chic, sexy evening wear. She always looks put together and classy. And now she has taken her style to the next level, creating a fashion line that is wearable and affordable for all!!

Lauren Conrad is definitely a style icon now and will be for years to come. You can find even more about her fabulous style and fashion tips when you visit http://www.laurenconrad.com/

Kate

2011-11-25T19:11:00.001-05:00

Kate by sourcat featuring dark jeans

Holiday Dressing

2011-11-24T12:24:00.001-05:00

Holidays can always be filled with the stress of cooking, family, etc. But really, we all know that how you look and what you wear is just as, if not even more important than all of that!

Check out this SUPER cute outfit selection brought to you by J. Crew

Get Organized

2011-11-22T17:15:00.001-05:00

As you know, I am obsessed with organizing and decorating. A few years ago I came across the momAgenda/myAgenda collection.

momAgenda is an original day planner created for mothers, by a mother (they recently added the myAgenda line for individuals). This stylish and functional planner is guaranteed to help eliminate the madness from your life.

On any day you have to juggle work, deadlines, personal activities, meetings, the kids, sports practice and games, school activities, projects, carpool, playdates, etc. HOW are you suppose to remember all of this?

momAgenda has created a way for you to manage every little thing in your life - from schedules to permission slips, momAgenda has it all.

Not a mom? No worries, they have an additional option of all the same items called myAgenda. You will finally be able to keep everything in order, no more need to rush because you forgot a meeting, you will always be prepared and aware of your daily plans.

The mom/myAgenda collection is for those who are already organized and for all of you who need a bit of help getting there. A variety of sizes allows you to carry your momAgenda with you everywhere and you will actually want to! This is not your old boring 'at a glance' planner, momAgenda's items come in a variety of fashionable colors and materials!

Don't spend one more day struggling to get organized, visit www.momagenda.com today and shop their vast selection of items. And to all of you holiday shoppers, mom/myAgenda's make FABULOUS gifts!

Living in the Shopaholic City

2011-11-08T18:50:00.005-05:00

photo and article courtesy of 'guestofaguest.com'

A report by Bundle.com listed Washington, D.C. as the top "shopaholic" city, with people spending an average of $263/month on clothes. Arlington was hot on D.C.'s Louboutin heels, with Arlingtonians spending an average of $254/month.

This is sort of funny to hear, because the shopping in DC and Arlington doesn't hold a candle to the shopping in Friendship Heights (Maryland) and at Tyson's Corner (McLean). With Filene's Basement and Syms closed, that number is only going to go up.

The national average is $142/month, and New York, the one that seemingly should have "won," came in at #12 on the list with $198/month.

washington dc and arlington top list of most shopaholic cities

Prints & Faux Fur

2011-10-27T01:11:00.000-04:00

An absolute must have this fall/winter is faux fur and animal prints.

And, no not the 'Jersey Shore' style animal prints that you may be thinking, a new stylish, classy take on the trend.

This trend is great, but you must know how to wear it, how to mix & match the correct pieces and how to look stylish, sexy and classy without going overboard into the trashy column.

Super versatile and feminine!

Use prints and faux fur to create two completely different looks around this sexy rusched gray dress and red peep toe pumps...

photo from ruelala

Pair with a leopard print faux fur vest for a fashion forward, edgy, daytime look

photo from ruelala

Create this chic, feminine look by adding a simple print scarf

photo from ruelala

This next look is comfortable yet super fashion forward while pairing two of this fall's top picks - animal prints & bright color skinny jeans! Rue La La has paired this Karen Zambos print tunic with a pair of red j-brand jeans and classic caramel colored pumps.

When you pair these two sexy styles you are guaranteed to turn heads!

Looking for a more simple, classic look...

pair your favorite wide leg jeans with a semi sheer loose fit animal print tunic.

In this outfit you will look sexy and be ready for anything the day may bring.

photo from ruelala

* To complete this look.. Lulu Bella suggests adding this large leather tote!