fashion Archives - Serendipity Mommy

The perfect everyday handbag

August 22, 2019 by Mandy

I think it’s probably fair to say that most girls have a bag in their wardrobe that they would consider their everyday bag. It’s the bag you carry daily when commuting to work, take into town when shopping and use when having a casual lunch with friends. It’s a bag you’ve used and abused and simply taken for granted so it needs to be good quality, comfortable and practical.

Eventually though it will undoubtedly need replacing, so what should you consider before making your purchase? This is a handbag that will be your daily companion so it’s worth taking a little time to consider what your perfect everyday bag needs to be.

What size works for you

Well first of all this is a bag that you will take to work and go shopping with so it needs to be a reasonable size. If you’re anything like me, I often go on a shopping trip and forget to take a carrier bag, so a larger bag can work out to be quite useful. When commuting to work you may sometimes want to carry a packed lunch for instance, a change of shoes if you do a lot of walking or a tablet or another device. Having said that, it doesn’t want to be so big that it’s awkward or uncomfortable to carry. It’s also important take your own stature into the equation. What works for one person may not work for another.

Suit your style

There are two obvious styles that stand out that would be up for the task and that is the shoulder bag and the tote shopper. Overall the shoulder bag would be the most comfortable to carry. If the shoulder bag is your preference then just think about whether you would prefer structured or unstructured as there are fors and against for both. A structured bag looks smarter but slightly harder to carry and a slouchy hobo is more comfortable but the down side is that smaller items can get a little lost at the bottom.

The tote shopper is a good practical choice but can get a little tiring to carry in your hand or on your forearm over a period of time. A good compromise is to choose a tote shopper with longer handles to allow you to carry it over the shoulder.

Another option to consider if it’s more for work is a messenger bag. This is definitely a smart alternative and will even allow you to carry it cross body which is especially useful on busy commuter trains.

The quality is very important

This is a bag that you are going to use on a daily basis. It’s going to be picked up plonked down, bashed against surfaces and carried around in all weathers. It is important then to make sure it’s well made and of good quality. If you buy cheap, you buy twice is a saying that most people only appreciate once they’ve fallen into this common consumer trap.

Bags can be made from all sorts of materials such as plastic, faux leather, nylon and fabric but for a bag that will be in regular use it really has to be made with good quality leather.

As you know handbags are made all over the world especially the Far East. However, it is Italy that has the enviable reputation of making the best quality handbags you can buy. They are handmade by artisans using traditional skills that have passed down through the generations. The leathers that they use are of the highest quality and are normally tanned with vegetable dyes which is not only environmentally friendly it also gives the leather a unique depth of colour.

Speaking of Colour

For an everyday bag, most women would choose a classic colour such as brown, black or dark blue. However, you may be tempted to choose a statement colour but before you do, just consider that this a general bag that you will be using with all sorts of outfits.

As this bag will be a daily companion, it really is worth considering these point before making your purchase.

Written by Penny

Step Up Your Shoe Game: The Best Shoe Trends of 2019

July 25, 2019 by Mandy

Shoe trends in 2019 are all about fun. Classic styles get a makeover, while closet staples need updating and refreshing.

The good news is that there is definitely something for everyone – and something for every mood.

So, clear a space in your wardrobe, and make way for sandal trends that feature your beautifully manicured summer feet!

Architectural Fun

By far and away the most interesting talking point is architectural heels, also known as sculptural heels. As with the best in construction engineering, form meets function. We’re not pretending for a moment that these creations are ideal for walking those city blocks or the best thing to take on a hiking trip.

Far from it! The whole point (pardon the pun) of architectural sandals is that they surprise and delight. And if wearing something sassy to complement your stylish outfit to garden parties, lunches and dinners is what you’re after, look no further.

Soulful White

Just as having a little black number is an essential part of a well-heeled wardrobe, a splash of white is a great staple for fresh summer days. More particularly, white soles are in.

Whether the white sole is a wedge, platform or the base for bright colorful sneakers is up to you. White soles feature on many different styles of shoe and have taken on an upbeat mood like never before.

Ultra-bright, Cheeky Sneakers

These are not your gym shoes, but footwear that shout out that you take true pleasure in your leisure time. Multi-colored sneakers are great value since you can combine them with loads of different outfits. Sneakers and skirt combos are also trending by the way – or they will soon if you strut your stuff in them!

Strappy and Nearly Bare

For those who firmly believe that sandals are meant to show off their feet to best advantage, thin straps still top the elegance stakes.

There are flat versions and nautical variations on the strappy shoe theme if you’re the kind of woman who likes to have her feet planted firmly on the ground.

Teva-like Is Tops

The classic Teva sandal has captured the imagination of people everywhere, and new creations by all the major fashion houses give you a wealth of variation.

Free ‘n Easy

The boardwalk, the beach, the getting down to basics and being down-to-earth. This is what Flojos footwear is all about.

This season’s greats include aspects of pretty much all of the sandal and shoe types we’ve already mentioned. You might want to cross over the aisle and check out some of the men’s stuff too, either for that man in your life, or for yourself, for those demanding times when you’re on your feet all day.

Floral and Feminine

Embroidery has made a comeback, and might well be the most interesting of the shoe trends. Texture and depth are achieved in shoes and sandals that say you’re not afraid to dress up from the top of your head right down to your toes.

Embroidery embellishments can be used to dress up or dress down. From casual to ultra-city slick, some of the most famous brands have covered the whole gamut.

Vegan Approved

Hand embroidered shoes are where luxury meets art. Vegans will be excited to know that high fashion includes an amazing collection of fancy footwear even the most principled vegan can enjoy with a free conscience. Let your feet do the talking!

Shoe Trends That Never Die – Platforms

We have observed that it is normally the very short or the very tall who love wearing platforms. Well, apart from a brief period in the 1980s — and who even remembers that, right? — platforms never went out of fashion.

From the moment they were born, they said they were here to stay.

Again, new trends have them embroidered, bright and funky, or in natural, muted shades, as well as the classic white.

You’re spoilt for choice if you’re a platform lover, and if you like buckles too, well, you’ll be in seventh heaven!

Serious Buckling Up

Buckles, buckles, buckles!

No matter whether you tend towards Goth elegance or swing with the showy platform sandal, you’ll be thrilled to know that buckles are trending.

This is great news for women who love their other accessories – handbags and bold belts. You’ve now got thematic cohesion for loads of different outfits.

And you can walk the walk knowing you’re clad in the latest fashion.

Buckle-up for the ride!

Our Best Pick?

Our best pick, although your taste and discernment override ours, natch, is the square-toed blue sandal with their Sophia Loren stiletto-style heels. Designed by Bottega Veneta, they are perfect — day or night — for a Mediterranean holiday, or for any day when you want to look and feel like a film star.

The color is exciting and allows you other adornments, such as anklets and toe rings. What better way to show that you know very well how to put your feet up and enjoy yourself? Imagine a cool cocktail in your hand and you’re good to go!

Diversity and Diversion

Gone are the days where each fashion year restricts you to only a few options. This is the modern world, where diversion embraces diversity.

Nowhere is it more evident than in shoe trends for 2019. You have ample opportunity to show the world just who you are, what you stand for, and wear what makes others stand up and notice.

Women have the freedom to choose. And that freedom extends to their footwear.

If you feel footloose and fancy-free, you can thank all those women who walked before you. Be proud of who you are – and of your footwear. Choose wisely, and you’ll feel that you are at the forefront of something new and exciting.

Who doesn’t want to be there, right?

Read all about other aspects of what today’s women of the world do right here on our blog. We hope you like our round-up of what shoe trends are working for most women this year.

Fall is coming soon, so make the most of the delightful range of fabulous footwear out there. Step out and enjoy!

Secrets for Dressing a Curvy Body

February 26, 2019 by Mandy

Fashion has come a long way since the times of anorexically skinny models, as ladies such as Ashley Graham have proudly joined many a catwalk, proving once again that beauty has no size. If you have a little extra on the hips, around the waist, or anywhere for that matter, you most certainly don’t have to resort to limited choices or black-only outfits for your preferred style. On the contrary, the world of fashion has delivered an entire rainbow of exciting, sleek and stunning options you can choose from to add variety to your wardrobe.

However, if you’re not certain which pieces would suit you, how to mix and match them and what certain fashion faux pas could be, let’s dive in and cover the basics of styling your curvy body. Rest assured, you’ll have fun, but you’ll also finally have a chance to give your look a makeover for a much more diverse and personalized style!

Find your favorite tailor

Hand-made and tailored clothes have always been and will always be in style for a slew of reasons, but when it comes to curvy gals, it comes particularly handy to have a tailor on speed-dial. Why? Because sometimes, store-bought will provide a range of sizes, and yet, none of them will fit your particular curves. The waist may be too tight, the shoulders too sloppy, the length all wrong, and if you want to go a size up or down, you’ll encounter the same issues.

A tailored ensemble, whether it’s a fitting dress or a suit, can bring out all of your lovely features while making you feel perfectly comfortable: not too tight, nor too loose. Another perk of tailoring your own clothes is having an entirely unique outfit every time, not off the rack!

Wear fitted, not too tight

While oversized is definitely not the best option for every garment for curvy women, it can be tricky to strike the perfect balance between following your silhouette and being too tight anywhere on your body. You can play with different cuts, textures and layers, but make sure that you don’t feel constricted at any point.

You should be able to move with ease, stay comfy all day long and still look smashingly beautiful no matter what you choose to wear!

Choose supportive undergarments

The same principle of fitted applies to your lingerie, ladies! There’s no reason to exclude “sexy” from the equation, so long as you find the right fit and the right support for your lovely cleavage. A selection of supportive j cup bras in a range of seductive and neutral tones can give you the perfect level of confidence as well as comfort.

These bras come with some extra thickness in their straps for better hold, while you’ll find lace and satin to ensure femininity and a sleek look no matter the occasion. Opt for bras that give you a seamless look so that you never worry if anything shows underneath your silky blouse or your cotton tee.

Skinny jeans instead of tights

In the wake of athleisure, many women, no matter their shape or size have started wearing tights as well as somewhat transparent leggings instead of pants or jeans. Of course, you should have your own arsenal of tights, but it’s wise to pair them with tunics and button-downs that give you some cover. There are classier ways to flaunt your figure than to flash your fabulous curves through the thin fabric in broad daylight, right? This applies to ladies of all shapes and sizes, though!

For example: skinny jeans! These stretchy, versatile pants are a timeless piece that every lady should own. And they make for a wonderful tights-swap for those days when you’re in the mood for a crop top or a regular tee. Not to mention that they work wonderfully with heels as well as sneakers.

Play with wrap-arounds

Curves can be made even more beautiful than they are with the help of the right wrap dress. Add a lovely cut, tie your dress around your waist, and you’ll have a stunning, textured look that perfectly fits your physique while it also lets you breathe.

Cross-body dresses are another excellent example of how you can bring out your hourglass figure or bring focus to your waist. In case most of your weight is focused in the midsection, adding something around your shoulders can bring balance to your outfit, for instance, with a stylish jacket to go with your wrap dress!

As fashion becomes more diversified and curve-friendly every day, you’ll see stores filled with all kinds of options that will flatter your figure and contribute to your style. Use these tips as your own guiding stars in discovering the finest ways to look and feel your absolute best, no matter the occasion, all the while enjoying your curves!

5 Reasons Why Gucci is Worth Your Money

January 30, 2019 by Mandy

Designer brands with luxury labels always draw a mixed reaction from people, but there is little doubt about the fact that they inevitably act as a status symbol. Now the question is, whether the price that luxury brands often ask for their products is worth it or not. Well, the answer depends on a number of factors and one of those factors is in the question – which brand we are talking about. Gucci is one of the most popular and well reputed designer brands in existence right now, and if you were to ask whether Gucci was worth its price, the answer to that would have to be a yes in most situations and the following reasons should be enough to convince you of the same too.

The Rich Heritage

If you have decided to consider wearing Gucci, it is more than likely that you know a bit about fashion and care about the heritage of a brand. From that perspective, Gucci indeed has a very rich heritage that rivals or even surpasses other brands in the same category. Founded by Guccio Gucci back in the early 1920s, the brand is nearly a century old, which is nothing to scoff at, given the volatile nature of the fashion industry. The company started by bringing the best of British fashion to life with Italian craftsmanship and even today, some of its lines have stayed true to that basic methodology, although the expansion of the brand has been in all directions since those initial days and especially after Alessandro took over. Very few designer brands have more experience and historical significance than Gucci, which is precisely what makes every product sold under the brand’s name a special product for the fashion enthusiasts internationally.

Their Bags are the Best

Fans of Louis Vuitton and Chanel might disagree that Gucci bags are unbeatable in terms of style and quality, but that is a debate for another time. However, there is little doubt about the fact that Gucci is the more popular brand in not just Europe and America, but pretty much the entire world. Specifically, when we are talking about bags, it’s just hard to beat Gucci. SSENSE have these Gucci products which also includes some gorgeous bags like the pink quilted marmont or the classic black quilted leather mini, which perfectly backs up the point we are trying to make here; Gucci is just unbeatable when it comes to making luxurious, designer bags that turn heads like no one else can.

The Resale Value is Great

After being out of favor for a few years, Gucci is once again at the top of their game, which is excellent news for both people who are planning to buy Gucci products, as well as those who are trying to sell a few old ones off. The thing is that, while designer brands charge a lot of money for their products, they have good resale value as well. Thanks to Gucci’s international fame, the Italian brand happens to offer one of the best resale values even among other popular brands. However, it is worth noting that since a Gucci product is an item of fashion, not everything will have the same resale value, irrespective of its original price. A lot depends on the trend of the season and if the item in question is in line with those latest in-demand trends. Nevertheless, it is highly unlikely that anyone will lose all of the money he/she paid for a Gucci, even if it isn’t one of the company’s best products.

Versatility

Being a brand that truly understands fashion, Gucci actually manufactures many of their bags and other accessories in various sizes and colors. What this means is that if you see a Gucci bag that’s just too big or small for you, it is very likely that they also have the same bag available in a smaller form factor. The same goes for colors as well, adding even more to the versatility of the brand. Whether you have casuals or formals in your mind, Gucci probably has you covered with a bag or a shoe to fit your styling needs perfectly. This sets Gucci apart from some of the other luxury brands, who would just release one version of each product for the sake of exclusivity, while disregarding the varying needs of their customer base.

Acceptance of the Unlimited Nature of Fashion

There was a time when Gucci was sinking lower with each passing year, in spite of its fame and heritage. It was Alessandro Michele who took the company out of the trenches and put it back on the landscape again. While he took many steps to ensure the brand’s success, a lot of it has to be chalked up to the freedom of fashion that the new Gucci preached. Under Alessandro, there is no limit to fashion and his open-minded approach to the concept of fashion is what makes Gucci so relatable and the reason why Gucci now has something for everybody who can afford it!

Bridesmaid Dress Style Tips: How to Coordinate with the Bridal Gown

December 24, 2018 by Mandy

Once the bride chooses her gown and begins choosing certain décor elements for the ceremony, the next monumental order of business is to choose the perfect bridesmaid dresses. Aside from the shape and style of the dresses, there are many other important elements that need to be considered when choosing these essential wardrobe pieces. The color is especially important because it needs to coordinate with the bride’s gown as well as the color scheme of the ceremony. Read on for some important bridesmaid dress style tips and find out how to properly coordinate with the bridal gown.

Focus on Fabric

Choosing the fabric for your bridesmaids’ dresses is just as important as choosing the color when it comes to coordinating looks. Ideally, you should have all or a large portion of your bridesmaids’ dresses made up of the same fabric you chose for your own gown. Whether it’s lace, chiffon, tulle or satin, nothing says cohesion like making all of the dresses with the same fabrics.

If you don’t want to have the entire dress made of the same fabric as your gown, at least incorporate the fabric into a large portion of the dress so that it looks cohesive.

Coordinating Colors

There are so many elements to consider when choosing the color for your bridesmaids’ dresses. In addition to your gown, you have to take into consideration the season, the color scheme of the ceremony, the theme of the ceremony and even the skin tone of your bridesmaids. While some brides may want to get the gown and bridesmaids’ dresses made in the same color, the most elegant rule is to get them in a different color that either coordinates directly or contrasts in a perfect way.

If your wedding is on the beach, for example, consider pale, natural or muted tones like peach or pink blush for the bridesmaids. On the other hand, if your gown is fun and you want to add a pop of color to the bridal party, go for bold shades of red or rich shades like navy and plum. For a formal aesthetic, consider gray, silver or gold bridesmaid dresses to turn up the elegance and sophistication.

Accents and Accessories

Using accents and accessories is a great way to put a unifying finishing touch on each look. Matching clutches, shoes and accessories like pearl necklaces can tie the looks together perfectly. You can also opt for matching headpieces like floral crowns with matching flowers, embellished barrettes of the same variety, or even use something like a fancy tiara.

Take One for the Team

While some brides want to make all their own decisions, it can be helpful to get your bridesmaids involved in the process of choosing their dresses. You may want to get their input on everything from color to fabric choices, or you may want to choose all the details and have them pick their own styles. Whatever the case, being open and making sure everyone is on the same page will help your bridesmaids stay coordinated and feeling comfortable on the big day.