Barbie Fashion

Summer to Fall :]

2008-08-12T23:14:00.000-07:00

Inspired by this post.

I recently realized that favorite season for fashion, as well as in general, is fall and winter. I love getting dressed up, being cozy, and the entire atmosphere. I find myself feeling sloppy during the summer, stumped for things to wear. It seems so boring to me - t-shirt, shorts, go. In the fall, there's so many options! So, I took this realization and the inspiration from Zoe's post and decided to use my fall outfits for inspiration for summer outfits. Below is the results, with inspiration on top. The main purpose of this post is for you to see how you can take inspiration from one outfit made for a specific season and make it suitable for another.

Fall/Winter2008 Trends

2008-08-08T15:38:00.001-07:00

If you want anything to be elaborated on, let me know! :)

[B]CosmoGIRL![/B]

*Peep-toe ankle boots
*Fringe boots
*Dark nails
*Preppy
*Classic, Victorian-esque pieces
*Goth/rocker pieces
*Going green (still...)
*Feminine
*Boho

[B]TeenVogue[/B]

*Flares
*High-waisted denim
*Airplanes
*Pleats/folds
*Scarves
*Aviators
*Bombers
*Blair Waldorf style
*Doc Martens
*Edie Rose (Rachel Bilson's new line)
*Hair accessories
*"Collegiate" items
*Jeans
*Bright sneakers
*Leather leggings
*Mouse flats (MJ)
*Big jewelry
*Superhero themes
*Grunge
*Hippie-chic
*Preppy
*Glam rock
*Boho
*Menswear
*Mixed prints
*Western inspired
*Puffer jackets/vests

[B]Harper's Bazaar[/B]

*Fringe
*Colored lace
*Big necklaces
*Peep-toe pumps
*Metallic embroidery
*Knit dresses
*Boho
*Belted dresses
*Blue
*Full skirts
*Chains
*Feathered hats
*Pencil skirts
*Colored beads
*Berets
*Texture
*Autumnal hues
*Country chic
*Menswear
*Pastels
*Muted prints
*Winter florals
*Plaid
*Stilettos
*Chunky knits
*Big accessories

[B]Lucky[/B]

*Sparkle
*Wrap sweater
*Leather
*Draping
*Egyptian inspired
*Bell skirts
*Denim hoodie
*Winkle pickers
*Chunky jewelry
*Flouncy purple
*Knit
*Rocker-chic
*Feminine pieces
*Details
*Short-sleeved coats
*Fitted blazers & skinny pants
*Slouchy trousers
*Corduroy
*Tie-dye
*Batwing sleeves
*Loose side folds
*Gathered neckline
*Pleating
*Spencer jackets
*Oversized sunglasses
*Waist-cinching belts
*Scarves
*Modern romance
*Colored suede pumps
*Wood-heeled boots
*Strappy heels
*Pointy ankle boots
*High-heeled Mary Janes
*Patent flats
*Stacked-heeled loafers
*Riding boots
*"American Classic"
*Military
*Boho
*Tech-inspired
*Gothic

:D

2008-07-30T22:34:00.001-07:00

You guys are awesome! You really made me feel better about this blog, so thank you!!!

This is going to be a pretty random post, as I have all sorts of things floating around in my head, sooo here goes!

First, a few outfits I've made lately:

This'll also look fabulous with skinny jeans tucked into the boots. (And the scarf would be tucked into the jacket, so just a bit is poking out!) I neeeeed this scarf and this purse! I have everything else - and I can't wait to wear it!

Call me Susie Homemaker, but I looove cooking! And how very Bree Hodge is this outfit? I'm going to making an entire dinner for my family soon, and I'm really looking forward to it!

This is something I threw together really quickly...I like the general "template," (the wedges, tank top, and wide-leg jeans,) but I feel it needs more to dress it up. Ideas?

I actually created this Under $100 look for a blog, but I love it! Unfortch, the shoes no longer come in my size, and the sweater isn't sold on F21 anymore. It was there for like three days, wtf. Ah well, keep dreaming!

Now, here are some things that will be coming up this week/next week:
-I want to start posting pictures of my outfits...yes or no? I'd like input!

-How to bargain shop! I just scored an amaaaazing dress for $1.78, so I'd like to share my advice with others! :)

-If anyone has anyyy ideas on what they'd like to see on this blog, let me know!

What's the point?

2008-07-29T14:19:00.000-07:00

What's the point of having this blog if nobody reads/comments it? It's very discouraging.

If you read/enjoy the blog, please leave a comment. It'd be nice to know that this isn't a complete waste of time.

BARBiE TURNS EiGHTEEN!

2008-07-16T22:28:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday to me! :D

Wishlist♥

2008-07-14T20:22:00.000-07:00

AE "Real Flare" Jeans in three washes
Booties
Tights for fall in black, brown, and gray
Hot pink high heels
Leather bag in black and brown
Scarves (to tie around the bag!)
Zebra-print backpack/bikini/top (A little obsessed?)
Sperry Top-Siders
Ruffly top!
Belts in brown, black, and white
White polo
Skirts that can be worn into the fall (Ideas?)
Boyfriend cardigan

Double Whammy!

2008-07-08T18:52:00.000-07:00

First, apologies for skipping posts lately! I've been sick aaand busy, and out of town. Also, I'll be away from Thursday until Sunday!
I know that Tuesday is supposed to be "The Look for Less" day, but I just can't until the NEXT Monday to tell you about the amazing site that I'll be reviewing today! So, enjoy this extra-long, double-whammy post! :D
The outfit below is not a copy of a celebrity's outfit, BUT it costs less than $100! As a matter of fact, it only costs $91.64! I did not make this outfit, instead, it is brought to you by atomheartmother, who says the following about it:
"This is pretty similar to my style.. kinda laid back but i still love to accessorize with jewelry and big funky bags. i do not own any of these items by the way, but i checked out the prices and this is what i came up with.
So I have 2 tops here: The first one is the purple tank. It's from American Eagle and it cost 11.95 (they have a LOT of clearance stuff). The second one is the white lace cami from Aerie which cost 14.95.
The denim sailor shorts were also from American Eagle clearance and cost 19.95.
The sandals were by Xhileration from Target at 14.99
The 2 pieces of jewelry were both from Wet Seal. The oval disk necklace was 8 dollars and the triple disk earrings were 5 dollars. Lastly, the canvas tote from Forever 21 cost 16.80.
Grand total: 91.64"

Now, onto the site that I can't WAIT to rave about!

First of all, any fashion blog that is able to emcompass comfort AND style in their name alone has to be a good! The amazing Zoe at Gym Shoes and Jimmy Choos is no exception. With an impeccable sense of style and a flair for writing, reading her blog is truly a delight! And, lucky for her readers, she doesn't keep you waiting ages for a new post. Her blog is updated almost daily, but it's never filled with dribble. Her posts actually have content, and good advice in nearly all of them. Most recently, she discusses how to attain an Audrey Hepburn-esque look - and what true fashionista doesn't want that?!
Zoe even has a column similar to the "Dear Barbie" section of this site. She offers on-spot advice and features an outfit (or more, if we're lucky!) in all of her posts! I've noticed that her style isn't cookie-cutter the A&F/H.CO/F21 you see on your average high-schooler. (That's right, this lovely lady is still in high-school!) She has a unique way of looking at things. Take, for example, a recent post on "borrowing from the boys." She says of a boy's button-down shirt on women: "This shirt is a casual alternative to the first button down. It's not as crisp and clean cut, and the fit is much more relaxed. You can wear it like the first one, part-way buttoned with a a tank under, or you can tuck it in. Either button it about two thirds of the way up and tuck it in (don't tuck it in really tightly though, we're not going for the dorky business man look), or cross the two shirt tails so they wrap around you and then tuck them in. For the second way, the shirt tails should meat the opposite side seems, make sense?"
Readers, I could go on about this blog for quite some time, so instead, I'll cut to chase and say - check it out for yourself! You won't be disappointed. Gym Shoes and Jimmy Choos.

P.S.: This is just an outfit I like - opinions?

Outfit of the Week

2008-07-06T20:55:00.000-07:00

In honor of AE's new line of jeans.

Weekly Wishes!

2008-06-27T20:43:00.000-07:00

Aah, it's finally Friday! But that doesn't mean a relaxing weekend lies ahead for me! Tomorrow I will practicing driving and going to a theme park with my best friend. On Sunday, my family will be leaving to go to the coast, and on Monday I have orientation at my college! Ahh, there is no rest for the wicked.
This week, I'm wishing it was my birthday! It's tradition for my mom and I to spend the whole day shopping, and at the end of the day, I have a family dinner with whatever I want! This year, I want fried chicken, potato salad, fried rice, and watermelon, mmm. This is similar to what I'll wear:

So what are you wishing for this week? Leave a comment & I'll post it here!

Barbie Fashion How To: Shop

2008-06-26T18:44:00.000-07:00

As you may recall, I recently said that I came into quite a bit of money. And as you may or may not know...I have a shopping problem. Not wanting to run through my money on stuff that would be worn only once or twice, I found the following tips to be helpful! Reader tips are also posted, in bold.

Take a list and stick to it!
Decide how much you're willing to spend beforehand, and try to stick to your budget.
Take an honest friend!
Try on everything.
Don't buy something just because it's on sale.

From condiment:
Don't take your bank card if you have a lot of money in your account.
Never take your credit card.
Keep clothing for week before cutting off the tags and wearing if you change your mind easily.

From LifeAccordingToMe:
Always try stuff on.
Always keep the receipt.

From FlamingoQueen:
Wear clothes that are easy to put on and take off. Ditto with shoes. (No lace-ups!)
Bring resusable shopping bags.
Stay hydrated all day by drinking water. Soda tends to make me feel gross if I'm shopping.

From PartnerInCrime:
Wear a cami underneath your shirt in case there is something you're trying on that you want to see how it looks with something underneath.

From Purple.Haze:
Wear comfortable shoes.
Try the clearance section for cute cheap clothes.

From Crayola:
Wear a simple outfit that's easy to take on and off.
Check the clearance section in every store!
Never try on jeans with friends -- there often impatient.
Bring an honest friend that will tell you if a shirt looks wonky on you.
Try on everything!
Before you buy something, think of three different outfits you could wear it with, that you already have in your closet.
If you're not sure about something, don't buy it. If your wishing you had bought it in the following days, go back and buy it!

From Fleur:
Always check for rips, tears, or stains before you buy the item.
Go to multiple stores...sometimes they have similar if not identical items but for cheaper.

From electricxLOVE:
Don't buy things that you think are just okay. Look for things you love!

From plastICFudge:
Don't go when you're on your period.
Never go hungry or too full.
Bring water with you.
Bring extra money...just in case.
Only spend a set amount in a certain store.

From GummiBears&Airheads:
Wear hair how you're going to wear it when you wear the clothes. Trust me, it can change your mind.

From Abby_Hayes:
Wear a strapless bra if your going to be trying clothes on. I say that because if you're trying on a strapless dress or somthing of the like it's hard to tell if you like it if a sports bra is clouding your vision.
Don't do your hair to nicely because your going to take off your shirt and putting a different one on a million times. Your hair might get messy.

From Seventeen & CosmoGIRL!:
Surf for savings. http://www.retailmenot.com
Avoid impulse buys.
Divide the cost of the item by how many times you think you'll wear it.
Know sale schedules.
Go seasonless.
Buy Monday-Friday.

From Frumpy to Fashionable: Undergarments

2008-06-25T21:44:00.000-07:00

It may not be a well-known fact, but the following piece of information is, indeed, a cold, hard fact: Your undergarments do matter. Sure, you may say, nobody but me is going to see them! Who cares?!
The fact of the matter is, my friend, that not only can nice undergarments make you feel prettier, they make your clothes look better! (And by not wearing any undergarments, you run the risk of looking like an Americal Apparel model.) For instance, the right size bra will make your shirts fit you nicer, and the correct underwear insures that you avoid the dreaded VPL. Case in point? Today, after our tanning session, my mom surprised me with a trip to Kohl's. (I got the cutest winter jacket ever - for $12!) I decided to try on a few tops, however...I was in my swimsuit. I quickly learned that there was no way to tell how the shirt would fit me once I was wearing the proper undergarment, so no tops for me. (Only one fabulous coat!)
Plus, pretty underthings make you feel, well, pretty! And the plus side is, they don't have to cost an arm and a leg! I recently threw out all of my ill-fitting undergarments and holey socks, and bought entirely new ones! My favorites included the Fruit of the Loom Incredible Push-Up Bra and Hanes For Her bikini panties. (The FOTL come in sets, as well, so you can match!)I feel so much prettier with my new items, and I feel like my clothes fit me better! Now that I know the power of pretty, proper underthings, I'm always on the look for pretty thing on the cheap! (Right now, I'm looking at Charlotte Russe's bras - does anybody know about the quality?)

(images courtesy walmart.com)

The Look for Less - Sophia Bush

2008-06-24T18:20:00.000-07:00

For outfit details, click on the picture.

Outfit of the Week

2008-06-22T21:55:00.001-07:00

In honour of the first week of summer, I bring to you the very first Outfit of the Week!

What better way to celebrate the new season in a sunny shirt & short shorts?! I included simple jewelry and comfortable shoes to add to the breezy-ness of the outfit!

For product information, please click on the picture.
(I acutally have everything in the picture except for the bracelet and shoes!)

Ch-ch-changes!

2008-06-20T14:07:00.000-07:00

Over the next few days, you might notice a few changes here at Barbie Fashion! These changes are meant to make the site better, and if you have any suggestions - leave a comment! Changes will include:

New posting schedule!

Personalized fashion advice!

Better ways to contact me!

I will also be posting more often!

Also, I will be linking blogs on the side of mine. If you would like to exchange links, leave a comment!

Dear Barbie: Fashion Advice

2008-06-14T21:06:00.000-07:00

Dear Barbie,
"I might need to go through my wardrobe and change a few thingss Im starting college in the fall so i new look would be great. So if you all could help me out that would be great. Right now i basically wear whats comfortable which is basically sweats and a t.When i do go out i tend to wear a lot of black.. I know that im not going to be dressing up to go to class but a look for going out would be nice....
Im slender and about 5'5'' with long legs and a small chest (like a cup small) i have a bit of a booty for someone my size and i love to show it off. I like to show off my legss too. Im african american with medium brown skin (not light not dark) and i have really dark brown eyes which many people mistake for black lol...
What types of clothes would look good on someone like me? Could you all also post some out fits.

I love the way i look in black because i feel like it brings out my features but im looking for a little bit more color........ I hate like lime green or lavender or brown...Thanks in advance"

Dear Reader,
For a nice list of "college basics," check out this list. (In fact, the entire site is wonderful - I'm a daily visitor!)

Color-wise, you could stay in the dark colors, but don't stick with black. Add color with your accessories.

The outfits below show an easy way to add color.

Eggplant, red, teal, and light rose look good on everyone. Try experimenting with different colors and shades to find out what you like.

P.S. - Feel free to submit your own questions and see them answered here! Just post a comment!

Botkier for Target?

2008-06-10T16:01:00.000-07:00

Okay, so...Target has definately had some cool designers come up with stuff for their stores lately. (I believe the most recent is Rogan?) But they have truly, truly outdone themselves this time.
Is anyone else SO EXCITED for the Botkier for Target line?!?! According to The Budget Babe, the line will launch July 21. Check out these pictures!

I'm kind of over the whole metallic thing, but I'm loving the bags on the left!

I.Absolutely.Adore.That black bag. Is it perfect, or is it perfect? I also like the color of the purple bag, but it's not a shape I typically like.

Again, the black bag is simply amazing. I love the casual slouchiness of the bags on the right, but I don't dig the colors. I'm not sure how I feel about the white bag - what do you think?

These bags are so adorable - I love the silver chain detailing! They look a bit small, though, so I definately can't wait to see them in person!

What do you think? Are you excited for this line, or will you be spending your accessory money elsewhere?

On the Hunt!

2008-06-07T19:03:00.000-07:00

I recently came into quite a bit of money, and have decided to treat myself to a shopping spree! I've made myself out a little list so that my money is used to it's full potential, however, I'm having a bit of trouble finding certain items within a reasonable price range.
This is where you lovely ladies come in! If any of you have any idea where I might be able to find anything on the following list, please comment! If I find something I like, I'll post your suggestion & link on my blog!

The List

A white clutch. Preferably something that looks quilted and isn't too small, but also isn't too large. I'd like to pay no more than $10 for it.

A black clutch. Like the white clutch, I'd like a nice size. However, I'd like this one to be able to look both casual and dressier. Again, I'd like to pay no more than $10.

A wallet. I'd like this one to be either pink leather or have a nautical theme, perhaps with anchors! I don't need something tiny, but rather a nice, decent-size one. There is really no price limit for this, but nothing too crazy.

A chunky charm bracelet! I want it in silver, with all of the charms already attached. I'd like a nautical theme, but almost anything would make me happy! I'd like to pay no more than $15 for this.

Fashionable Finds.

The amazing Ally from Cute on the Cheap found this clutch from Target, for only $15! & it comes in white, as well! It's definately on my wishlist!

Leah from not only The Look For Less, but also Fashionable Crafter and The High School Fashionista found the following items!

Black Bags Galore!

I personally adore the top right clutch, as well as the bag that is second from last on the leftmost column.

Cute Clutches!

Talk about adorable! My favorites are the hot pink, the zebra print, the lace, and the white one with the chain! Leah, please let me know where they are from, as for some reason I am not able to see them on Polyvore? (Also, the rest of the links did not work.) & I will definately be checking out Target & TJ Maxx!
New York Chique from New York Chique found this adorable bracelet from Forever21.

Thanks so much, ladies! With amazing finds like these at amazing prices, I see shopping very soon in my future!

Thank you so much to anyone who helps!

Barbie Fashion How To: Wear Wide-Leg Jeans

2008-06-05T17:46:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, I found the cutest pair of wide-leg jeans at Aeropostale, and do you know what I paid for them? $7.50! Naturally, I snatched them right up, dreaming of all the ways I'd be able to wear these bad boys.
However, I can't help but wonder why these jeans were on clearance! Clearly, Aeropostale is moving out last season's items to make way for all of their new merchandise, which got me wondering if I'd even be able to wear these for a while. After all, I don't want to only wear them once!
It is on this note that I decided to show off the various ways in which this "trendy" piece could be worn, making it a little more classic! If you have any other ideas, please comment & I'll post your idea here! For outfit details, please click on the outfit.

Look One: The Typical Summer Day.

For a cute summer outfit, pair your wide-leg jeans with a brightly colored top and wedges. I know that typically, people enjoy shorts in the summer, but I think that this would be nice for a movie date, as movie theatres get a bit chilly. Choose a top that fits a bit closer to your body, as wide-leg jeans are typically looser.

Look Two: The Professional.

If you work in a stricter place, then this look might not be for you. However, if you work someplace a little more lax, this could be just the look for you! Dress up your wide-leg jeans with a button-up shirt. The one above has stripes for visual interest. Add a pair of black leather pumps and a black leather bag, and you're classic and cool.

Look Three: A Cozy Winter Day.

This is definately one of my favorite looks! I can't wait for a cold winter day to snuggle up in my wide-leg jeans and a big chunky sweater. Add a colorful tank underneath for a little "pop," slide on some warm boots, and you're set!

Look Four: A Little Nautical.

This look is a little more trendy than the first three. Wide-leg jeans can look downright nautical when paired with the right accessories! Try using red, white, and blue to add to the feel, and choose one nautical accessory. It is easy to over-do this, so be careful!

Again, if you have any suggestions, leave a comment and I will post them here!

Billy suggests: I usually wear a black fitted tee and pumps with my wide-legs. And finish the look of with a strand of pearls and a patent-leather headband.

From frumpy to fashionable: keeping cool.

2008-05-31T19:03:00.000-07:00

After spending a long, relaxing day at theme park, where temperatures reached well over 100 degrees, I ended up feeling pleased with the outfit I had selected that morning. It kept me cool, was easy to slip on and off when I felt like swimming, and didn't look horrendous. At the same time, I was perturbed by the number of fashion faux-pas' I saw today! Why anyone would opt to wear jeans or a long-sleeve tee in this sort of weather is beyond me. Even worse is the so-comfortable-it-might-as-well-be-pajamas look! I also saw quite a few girls dressed in baggy, frumpy boy clothes. While I am certainly all for the androgynous look, I do not consider faded, camo-print cut-offs and a baggy tee with a witty saying to be of the most appropriate attire for a lady to wear in public.
As shown below, I have compiled together a few options that would not only be appropriate for the weather and situation, also look cute and are flattering. For outfit details, please click on the outfit.

Option One: The Dress

Whether terry-cloth, jersey, or cotton, dresses are an easy, breezy way to stay cool and look hot. Try ones in bright colors to really show off that amazing summer tan! Paired with the summer's hottest sandal, that gladiator, and a nice tote to carry all of your things, you'll be the envy of everyone. I personally would choose a simple bag with a printed dress or an interesting bag with a simple dress. Whatever you choose, make sure it's not of a high-quality matieral, such as leather or suede, if there's a chance you might get wet, or otherwise ruin your bag.

Option Two: The Skirt

Skirts are a nice way to keep the heat away during the summer. They are breezier than shorts, but feel a little more casual than dresses, and can sometimes help you feel more covered. A denim mini isn't for everyone, but if it's your style, it looks perfectly preppy when paired with a bright, striped polo and the ever-classic white Keds. And please, stray away from the destroyed denim minis. If you prefer a more classic look, a cotton skirt in a bright color or fun pattern might be right up your alley. If you do choose to go bright on bottom, stay simple up top - you don't want your halves competing for attention! A fuller skirt looks fantastic when paired with a fitted tank top and simple sandals.

Option Three: The Short

Shorts are an obvious staple for summer, however, there is one thing you should always check: the fit! Make sure they're not too tight, as you want to avoid the "muffin-top" look. Check to see if they ride up or cause any unflattering shapes on your figure. Again, as with the mini-skirt, if you prefer short-shorts, please avoid the destroyed denim. If you don't like short-shorts, there are tons of cute walking shorts available now, in all kinds of cuts, fabrics, and washes. Another short favorite of mine that is not pictured above is the cloth short. My favorite is the Soffe, which come in about a million and a half colors and are fairly inexpensive. Soffe's aren't meant to be dressed up, so please don't attempt that. They look best when paired with a tank top or tee shirt and simple shoes.

So there you have it, folks! A variety of choices to help you keep cool, comfortable, and cute this summer.