B&B Blog

Winter Fashion Trends

Winter fashion can be a difficult thing to master. You want to make sure that you look good while also making sure that you are dressed warmly enough to brave the treacherous weather that awaits outside your door. Keep reading to learn how you can stay bundled up this winter and still be on trend.

Light Colors and Floral Prints

Typically, winter is reserved for dark or neutral colors and the lighter colors and florals are reserved for spring. That is not the case this winter, since fashion designers from all over the globe have added light colors and flowered patterns not only into their clothing lines, but into their accessories as well. Colors like light pink, peach lavender and even reds are being featured the most in these popular winter lines.

Jogging Suits

For the comfort lovers, the use of jogging suits is a welcomed change. Most designers are streamlining the look with tighter silhouettes and classic accessories.

Neutral Checkered Patterns

You can never go wrong with neutrals in your wardrobe. This winter, fashion designers took these neutrals a step forward by adding neutral checkered fabrics into their outerwear designs.

Moto Jackets

It should come as no surprise that moto jackets are making a reappearance this winter since we saw bomber jackets come back on the scene this fall. Adding one of these stylish jackets to your wardrobe will bring a touch of edginess to any outfit.

Army Green Knit

This color seems to be a classic no matter what season it is and has proven so by carrying on into winter. Most designers are pairing this timeless color with knit patterns to add warmth to their designs.

Corsets and Victorian

More prevalent in the high fashion world, these high necklines and structured bodices tend to show in the most prevalent high fashion shows this winter.

Velvet

Yes, you read that correctly. Velvet has come back full swing, mostly appearing in deeper shades such as midnight blues and royal purples.

Colorful Furs

A more controversial fashion statement has presented itself this winter in the form of colorful furs. Even leopard print has made an appearance in some of the winter fashion shows. While some may opt for faux fur, these dip-dyed outer coats are sure to make a statement either way.

Puffer Jackets

These warm jackets that seem to turn people into giant marshmallows are back in style this winter. For the sake of warmth, everyone seems pleased with their return.

Shimmer and Shine

Different fabrics are being used by designers to give a bit of glam to otherwise dull winter wardrobes. Whether it be the use of satin, sequins, lurex, or vinyl, adding a touch of shimmer to your wardrobe this winter will keep you on trend.

By following these newest trends on your next shopping trip, and combining them with your own unique sense of style, you are sure to concoct a fabulous winter wardrobe filled with all of the on-trend pieces for this season. As celebrity fashion designer Rachel Zoe once said, “Fashion is a way to say who you are, without ever having to speak.”

The Hottest Trends for Fall 2016

Staying on trend can be difficult. Usually we don't know something is a trend until it's almost passed us by. That's why we have compiled a list of the hottest trend this fall so that you can stay on top of your style before the weather turns cool.

Whether real or fake, fur is one of the biggest trends this season. From fur coats to fur accessories, you will want to add this staple to your wardrobe this fall.

Ruffles are one of the trends that has carried over from summer into fall. If you already have some ruffled pieces in your closet from summer, simply layer those pieces with a cardigan or scarf to transition into cooler weather.

If you can't get enough of neutral colors, you will love this new trend. Tan on tan on tan! Of course, you can always add pops of color here and there to suit your personal style.

For the love of all things glittery! Metallic fabrics are back in this fall and we couldn't be more excited! What a fun way to play up your fall wardrobe.

We love the look of these bomber jackets! Bombers have popped back up all over the place this fall but these fur lined bombers are great for added warmth when the weather turns cool.

This look is definitely great for recycling your summer dresses into warm fall looks. Be sure to add a few turtlenecks to your wardrobe this fall.

Plaid is definitely a fan favorite this fall in the form of overcoats. Whether it's a pea coat or trench coat, as long as it's plaid, you will be on top of your fashion game.

Here is another trend that has been carried over from summer into fall. This chic look can be created by pairing your summer off-the-shoulder tops with a knit skirt or long fall pants. The choice is yours!

Want to add some color to your wardrobe this fall? You have full permission to do so with this new dusty pink and yellow trend!

This effortlessly chic look is back in style with a modern twist. Grab a pantsuit to add to your wardrobe for all the classy events you have this fall.

This trend is popping up everywhere this fall! A spin off of spring florals, these fall florals showcase darker prints to pair with fall neutrals.

Unless you've been hiding under a rock for the past few months, you've already seen the choker trend resurfacing. Grab one that best suits your style for this fall!

I bought clothes, now what? A guide to putting together the perfect outfit

Ladies, we all know how difficult it can be to put together the perfect outfit. That's why we spend the majority of our time half-dressed staring at the clothes in our closet, dumbfounded. 

If you can relate to that, then this post is for you. Here are a few quick tips on how to put together the perfect outfit so that you can look classy, tasteful, and still turn every head in the room.

1. Modesty is key.

These days, it has become almost like a competition to see who can show the most skin. Those kind of outfits can land you the wrong kind of attention. A good rule of thumb is to pair skin-bearing pieces with more modest pieces. For example, if you plan to wear a shirt with cut-outs, pair it with some skinny jeans rather than shorts. Balancing out the amount of skin you show gives you a more polished look.

2. Plan your outerwear beforehand. 

If you're anything like me, you need a jacket or cardigan everywhere you go, even in the heat of summer. You don't want to wear a purple dress with a yellow cardigan (unless you're an LSU fan, of course). Coordinating your outerwear beforehand even if you don't wear it the whole time can make your outfit look effortlessly put together.

3. Consider length and height.

When deciding what shoes to wear with your outfit, always consider the length of the outfit you're wearing and the height of the shoe. For shorter girls, short dresses and high heels can give the illusion of longer legs while most taller girls don't need their legs accentuated any more than they already are. Putting some thought into this can make a world of difference in your outfit.

4. Consider the venue and weather

Obviously you wouldn't want to wear white to a barbecue, right? Can you imagine the mess? It is just important to consider the venue and the weather when planning your outfit. If you will be attending an outdoor wedding in August, you probably wouldn't want to wear a light color that would show sweat stains (Ick! How embarrassing!). Just like if you know that you will be walking through grass or gravel, you might not want to wear your six inch stilettos. If you take these things into consideration beforehand, you will be much more comfortable with your choice when the time comes.

5. Plan ahead.

You're standing in front of your closet, hair in rollers, makeup half done flipping through every item of clothing you own and having a panic attack because you have to leave in 10 minutes and you have to look flawless. We've all been there. It's not a good feeling, is it? What if you could make that feeling disappear with one simple step? You can. All you have to do is pick out your outfit the night before. Lay it out on that chair in the corner of your bedroom. Go ahead and pick out your accessories, shoes, and even the proper underwear (it's important, okay?). That way, when you look at the clock and realize you have to leave in 10 minutes, you can slip on the perfect outfit and walk out of the door in confidence.

Following these five simple steps will have you dressing like a fashion blogger in no time. Have someone take a picture of you in the perfect outfit and tag us on Instagram to let us know that this blog post helped you! By the way, don't forget to wear the most important accessory of all: a smile. 

Top 10 Most Romantic Valentine's Day Gifts for 2016

Everyone loves to feel loved. Sometimes we just have a hard time communicating how much we care for each other through our words so we use gifts. That opens a whole new realm that can be difficult to navigate. You want to get a gift that expresses your love for that person, but you don't want to be cheesy or get the same gifts over and over. That's why we have compiled a list of the Top 10 most romantic gift ideas for this Valentine's Day in no particular order. We're all about making your lives easier. Ladies and gentleman, take a deep breath and relax. Your Valentine's Day troubles are over. All you have to do is read this list and pick one.

1. Personalized Map Puzzle of where you first met.

We all love those sentimental gifts that tug at the heart strings. Making a map puzzle of where you first met, had your first date, or any other significant place in your relationship is a great way to show how much you care. 

Bonus Points: Fellas, if you plan on proposing this Valentine's Day, you can pick a significant spot, give her the puzzle that leads her exactly to it, and pop the question then and there! See how easy and romantic that is? All of her friends will be jealous.

You can purchase these puzzles for around $15 on etsy.com. They even have puzzles in the shape of a heart. 

2. Flowers with meaning.

Let's face it, everyone and their mom gets the typical red, white, or pink roses on Valentine's Day. Time to step it up a notch. Start the day off right by sending her some flowers that have some meaning and tell her why you chose each flower. For example, an apple blossom means promise, pink carnations mean gratitude, gladiolus means strength of character, and hibiscus means delicate beauty. If she gets a beautiful assortment or flowers with thoughtful meanings for each one, it tells her that you put some effort into this instead of just whipping out your wallet. Be careful, though. Her coworkers will try to steal you and/or clone you.

To find out more about the meanings of flowers, go to aboutflowers.com for the entire list.

3. Exotic Chocolates

Ladies love chocolates. However, as I said before, its more about the effort that you put into it rather than the gift itself. If your significant other is a chocolate lover, you can't go wrong with a box of exotic chocolates. Chocolates from all around the world are way more exciting than a $5 box that you picked up from Walgreens on your way home. Trust me on this.

Bonus points: Throw in a line about how you want to travel to all the different countries that those chocolates came from with her by your side, you'll be golden.

Cocoabella.com has a great assortment of these exotic chocolates. They even have boxes ranging in size and price so you can find one that fits your budget.

4. Valentine's Day Themed Adult Coloring Books

Adult coloring books are extremely popular right now because they provide hours upon hours of entertainment. These intricate books have also been proven to reduce stress. For that reason, they would make a great gift for someone with a stressful job or school schedule, or any adult in general.

You can get the "Lots of Love Coloring Book" on amazon.com for about $8.

5. Jewelry Candles

It is a well-known fact that most women absolutely adore getting jewelry on Valentine's Day. Most women also enjoy a candle in her favorite scent. Did you know that the two are now combined? That's right, you can buy a candle with jewelry (or a coupon code for jewelry) hidden inside. Now when her favorite scented candle runs out, she will have a beautiful piece of jewelry to remember it by.

Bonus points: Husbands, draw her a bubble bath, light these candles all around the tub, and line the floor with rose petals. Then have a brand new outfit waiting for her when she gets finished with her bath with a note that says "Put this on, we have dinner reservations." You will be her hero! I promise. Ps-if you need help picking out an outfit for her, you can always come in to her favorite boutique and we will help you pick something perfect for her *wink wink*.

You can purchase these candles at diamondcandles.com. They have jewelry ranging from $100 - $5,000 hidden in their candles! The more you buy, the better your chances are of getting exactly what she wants.

 6. Customized Picture Frame

Pictures are memories that you can hang in your home. If you want a sentimental gift for this Valentine's Day that won't break the bank, a customized picture frame is the way to go. Fill it with your favorite picture of the two of you and she will have a gift that she can treasure forever.

Personalizationmall.com has several choices for customized picture frames ranging from around $25 - $40 so that you can pick the one that best reflects her personal style.

7. Customized Photo Keepsake Box

Speaking of photos, another amazing way to show how much you care is to customize a keepsake box with your favorite photo of the two of you. Women love when you customize things. It really is the thought that counts. 

Bonus points: Fill the keepsake box with beautiful jewelry from Blush and Bashful. Not sure what to get? Come in store and we can help you pick something out that she is sure to love.

You can find these personalized boxes on etsy.com. There are some for every price range.

8. Custom Voice Wave Recording

These are huge right now, and rightfully so. You can download an app that will turn your words into a digital voice pattern that can be printed. You can express your feelings in a way that she will be able to remember forever.

Search "voice art" on etsy.com to find jewelry, digital prints, and even wood etchings that will capture the words that she wants to hear everyday.

9. Romantic Getaway

Every woman loves to be swept off her feet and whisked away on a romantic getaway. The best part about this is that you can go wherever you want. Whether it be a cruise, a cabin in the mountains, or a bed and breakfast on the outskirts of town, the fact that you planned something specifically with her in mind will blow her away.

Bonus points: Don't tell her what you're planning. Pick her up from work with her bags already packed with her favorite clothes (again, if you need help picking out outfits, we can help you). Spontaneity can be very romantic. Unless she doesn't like surprises or likes to plan things herself, then you might want to clue her in ahead of time.

10. Star Registry

Last but certainly not least, star registry. You're probably thinking what in the world is that? It's one of the most romantic things in the galaxy, literally. You can name a star or an entire constellation after her for less than $50. That's a small price to pay to be the most romantic man on the planet (Ryan Gosling, who?). Just go to star-registration.com and fill out an application. If you want to take it a step further, you can pay $80 to register a binary star. That is, two stars that orbit around each other that you can name after both of you. Swoon.

Gentleman, you have no more excuses. We have provided you with a fantastic list of unique and romantic Valentine's Day gifts that your significant other will fawn over. All you have to do is pick one, or several for a Valentine's Day she will never forget!

Sources: gayot.com, etsy.com, aboutflowers.com, cocoabella.com, amazon.com, personalizationmall.com, star-registration.com

Spring Accessory Trends 2016

Who wants to talk about accessories? For some women, accessories can be the bane of your existence simply because you don't know what pairs with what or how much is too much. Sometimes our accessories can reflect our personal style even better than our outfit does. Nine times out of ten, when you go to a public place, people will comment on your shoes or your jewelry before your leggings or cardigan. Do not fear the accessory world. We have compiled a list of the hottest accessory trends for this spring so that you can decide which ones will compliment your personal style and still give you that fashion-forward edge.

Shoulder Dusters

This is a personal favorite of mine because I love big earrings. Now, that doesn't mean you have to go outlandish with your jewelry (unless you really want to). You can choose some long, thin earrings that brush the top of your shoulders to give your outfit some style while still retaining some simple elegance.

Alexander McQueen           Oscar de la Renta                        Celine             

Graphic Bags

We all know that purses are one of the best accessories to express our personal style. This season, the designers have granted you permission to go crazy with your purses. These cool graphic bags add spice to any outfit.

         Fendi                                Miu Miu                          Dolce & Gabbana

 Chunky Sandals

Well, ladies, I hope you didn't throw out your Birkenstocks from fifth grade because it looks like chunky sandals are making a comeback. Why? We're not quite sure. However, like most fashion trends, as long as it is done tastefully, it might not be as bad as we're all thinking. But, hey, at least you'll have great calf muscles come summer time from lugging those giant sandals around all day.

Rick Owens                           Phillip Plein                              Fendi      

 "All That Glitters" Shoes

Ah, shoes, a woman's favorite accessory. Not to mention gllitter! Put the two together and you have an incredible combination! I love that glitter is in this season, not only for shoes but also for outfits. Just try not to overdo it by pairing glitter shoes with a glitter dress. Let's keep it simple.

Marc Jacobs                               Lanvin                                Gucci      

Side note: Does it bother anyone else that these models don't seem to paint their toenails? No? Just me? Okay, moving on.

Crown Jewels

You can breathe now, my little bohemian princesses. You're favorite headpiece is still in style this spring. However, it does look like we've transitioned from wearing them straight across the forehead to slightly behind the hairline. Just a minor adjustment. Wear your bandannas proudly!

Gucci                         Dolce & Gabbana                       No 21  

 Fit To Be Tied

Just like ties, belts, and sashes are popular with clothing this spring, that trend has translated into shoes as well. This spring you will see several people wearing ankle ties with their shoes to give them some extra interest. This is actually a very easy fashion trend to keep up with. Just grab a ribbon or silky fabric and loop it around the ankle of your favorite pair of heels or sandals.

Altuzarra                                 Miu Miu                             Fendi   

 Choker Necklaces

That's right! Choker Necklaces are back and better than ever. They've gotten a little upgrade from the black stretchy necklaces that everyone wore in middle school. These necklaces are actually pretty great. Plus, chokers always go great when layered with longer necklaces. Play around with your favorite way to pair them. We can't wait to see what you come up with!

Nina Ricci                           Valentino                          Lanvin

 White Bags

Okay, so this is a little opposite of the graphic bags we talked about earlier. That's okay! This way there's something for everyone! If bold colors and prints aren't your thing, you can choose a white bag and still be in fashion!

Miu Miu                            Ralph Lauren                          Dior  

 Clear Accessories

Did I fall asleep and wake up in the 90's? Should I call my mom to see if she kept my Jelly purse and matching shoes? According to this next fashion trend, I should. But I'm not going to. It seems like the designers were grasping at straws with this one. It was fine to carry a clear purse around when all I had in it was a few dollars and a Pez dispenser. Now that I'm a grown woman, it might be best to keep my personal items (including my feet) hidden from view.

Simone Rocha                         Loewe                           Maison Margiela

Hip To Be Square

Cowgirls, rejoice! Square-toed shoes are a must-have this spring! Which means your favorite work boots can now double as date night boots (as long as you've scraped all the mud off, of course). It feels good to be country!

               Louis Vuitton                     Paco Rabanne          Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini

 Chains, Chains, Chains

Of course as I write this, that Nick Jonas song is stuck in my head. Hey, I'm not complaining. Just like I'm not going to be complaining about this new trend. I love it. I also love how the designers have paired the chains with items that either compliment or contrast the look. Chains will be your go-to accessory bling this spring!

Burberry Prorsum                     Calvin Klein                          Chloe             

Some of this years trends will definitely be a hit while others are likely to be a miss. What do you think of these trends? Comment below! Remember we always try to carry the items in our boutique that we know you like so the more feedback, the better!

Stay stylish!

Team Blush and Bashful

Sources: Vogue.com

Spring Trends 2016

Staying on top of constantly changing trends can be difficult. It's hard to tell what will be in style from day to day or from season to season. It can be extremely overwhelming. Never fear! The Blush and Bashful Blog is here! We've compiled a list of the hottest new spring trends so that all you have to do is go to your closet (or your local boutique *wink wink*) and pick out an outfit that will make you the talk of the town.

First things first, let's talk about color. This spring you will most likely see an assortment of bright colors as well as a few neutrals. This will make it incredibly easy to pick out an outfit. All you have to do is pick a bright staple, pair it with a few neutrals to tone it down, and you're good to go!

These colors are projected to be the most popular colors this spring season according to Pantone's Fashion Color Report for 2016.

Now it's time to get down to the nitty-gritty. Style. These are the most popular styles that have been showing up on the runway by the most popular designers. Pay attention, ladies. We project that you will be seeing these styles everywhere in the near future.

The first fashion trend that we're going to talk about may be one of the hottest this year. It's reffered to as the "Cold Shoulder" and I'm borderline obsessed with it. It features bare shoulder cut-outs on an otherwise basic staple making it an instant head-turner. Just imagine all the places you could wear these tops. They would be perfect for barbecue's, ballgames, or even date night. They are extremely versatile making the transition from day to night seamless.

Mugler Spring 2016      Giambattista Valli Spring 2016     Milly Spring 2016

 Everyone has one of these in their closets. It's your typical white shirt, right? Wrong! Designers are taking everyone's favorite white shirt and giving it a fashion-forward makeover. You will want to have one of these classic staples in your closet this season.

Amanda Wakeley Spring 2016      Fendi Spring 2016      Proenza Schouler Spring 2016

 This next trend has me pretty excited. It's called "Leather and Lace." No, that doesn't mean you have to sew your grandmother's doily onto your leather leggings. It's simply combining simple, sweet fabrics with edgier pieces. It's the best of both worlds because it brings out the sugar and spice in all of us.

Michael Kors Spring 2016         Tods Spring 2016         Valentino Spring 2016

Pleats are making a comeback this year! And it's more attractive than you think. Whether designers are using them for structuring or decoration purposes, they're a great way to add interest to an outfit without having to over accessorize.

        Hermes Spring 2016   Carolina Herrera Spring 2016  Tanya Taylor Spring 2016

 Who doesn't love the simple sweetness that ruffles add to outfits? They go with everything! In case you were wondering if your favorite ruffle top is still in style, it most definitely is.

 Rosie Assoulin Spring 2016   Roberto Cavalli Spring 2016   Ralph Lauren Spring 2016

I don't know about you, but I, for one, am obsessed with glitter. That's why I am so very excited to announce this next spring trend. All things sparkly are in style this season. The designers are making it extremely easy to glam up your outfit while keeping the accessories simple.

Carolina Herrera Spring 2016     Gucci Spring 2016       Temperley Spring 2016   

Stripes are so versatile. There are so many different styles and so many ways to incorporate them into any outfit. Just add a stripe into your wardrobe this spring to make sure that your closet is filled with stylish essentials.

         DKNY Spring 2016          Elie Saab Spring 2016  Stella McCartney Spring 2016

 This next trend is definitely one for the books. Designers have included Victorian-era inspired pieces into their spring lines and I am digging it. The higher necklines and ruffles bring back the classic style of simpler times. Be sure to grab one of these pieces because we are taking style back to the 1830's.

Zimmermann Spring 2016   Alexander McQueen Spring 2016   Phillip Lim Spring 2016

 Two words: Wrap skirts. These will be so hot this season, and for good reason. Not only do they add an asymmetrical twist to an outfit, they also flatter any shape. You will definitely want to add one of these beauties to your wardrobe this spring.

     Altuzarra Spring 2016     Andrew Gn Spring 2016    Michael Kors Spring 2016

 Ties, belts, and sashes are popping up all over the runway. This is a great way to break up an outfit and to flatter your figure by giving you a beautiful hourglass shape. Sorry ladies, it looks like the over-sized, baggy clothes are out this season. Time to flatter your figure, not hide it!

David Koma Spring 2016   Michael Kors Spring 2016   Alexis Mabille Spring 2016

 Now that you are in the know about the newest styles this season, maybe you can do us a favor. We want to hear from you! What were your favorite trends? Which ones did you not like so much? Are there any colors in particular that you're excited about seeing this spring? The more feedback you give us, the more we can cater to your specific wants.

Spring market is this weekend! That means we will be going to pick out all of the newest styles for you to wear! Comment below and tell us what you think we should pick up while we're there. Don't worry, we will still be open for regular store hours so that you can pick up the fabulous transition pieces that we have in stock!

Here's to a great spring! May your closet be stylish, and your allergies be mild.

Much love!

Team Blush and Bashful

Sources: popsugar.com, pantone.com

The Perfect Tee

Y'all....we are always looking for the "perfect tee"....you know the one.... It has to be super cute to just throw on with jeans or shorts...but cute enough to glam up with a statement necklace...but not sheer at all....and not to stretchy....but a bit oversized....the list goes on and on and on.  Well ladies....we've found it!  It's a more flattering version of everyone's beloved "Piko" tops....Its soft, striped, and fabulous.  And lucky for you, it comes in 4 colors: grey, pale yellow, peach, and mint!  

RED HOT Valentine's

The day of love is upon us and we've got all you need to feel RED HOT!!! Lots of new pink and red dresses plus the most amazing accessories including a super fab Love, Poppy heart stamped necklace.  Whether you are looking for a gift for your bestie or a hot outfit for a date out with your main squeeze; we've got all you need! 

1 Kimono- 3 Ways

Kimonos have been all the rage as of late....and its not different going in to fall!  Instead of covering our swimsuits we can use them to layer, layer, layer!! Here's 3 SIMPLE ways to style a kimono for fall transition! (when its still HOT)!

For fun: Pair this kimono with our little black "Mika" romper and killer heels for a great "fun" outfit with your girlfriends! 

For Work:  This look is SO EASY!  Just throw on a seamless tank, our black pencil skirt and the Farah Kimono  you are ready for work! 

For School:  this is our FAVORITE look!  Because aren't we all FANCY?!?!?  Pair the Farah Kimono with our fab "I'm so Fancy" Tee for a fun back to school look!  You can really wear this look anywhere!  

Its a Wrap....Dress

This little wrap dress really has it all....style, comfort, modesty (perfection for work or church), and most of all its only $33.50!!  I think we may need to get one in every style (stay tuned for more colors and patterns ladies).  

One of our FAVORITE things about wrap dresses is the silhouette!  Its cinches in your waist and highlights your fab waistline!  Can't go wrong with an hourglass silhouette! 

Haley paired our Wren  Wrap dress with our fab new envelope clutch and black booties to really edge it up a bit!