Short Break

Couture Allure will be on a short break for the next couple of weeks while we host family visiting from the frozen tundra of the north.  I'll be back with new blog posts and new items for the website soon!

9 street style suggestions as to how to rock your crop tops

Ohk so crop tops are the current rave of the moment, some are doing it right, some aren't... So here are a few street style ways to rock the crop tops
When it comes to ways to wear crop tops this season, the key this time around is to keep the belly-baring to a minimum. The best way to wear the must-have crop top is with high-waisted skirts and pants that sit above your belly button. You can wear your crop tops with your favourite high waisted midi skirts for a chic ladylike look or wear a cropped sweater over your outfits to create a layered look. Check out these ways to wear crop tops, as seen on the streets.

1. CHIC STRIPES



When it comes to ways to wear crop tops, keep it simple in black and white basics. Elle was snapped for Refinery 29 wearing a black and white striped crop top with a black pleated midi skirt. She accessorized with a printed clutch, strappy heels, statement earrings, and oversized sunglasses. This outfit would also look great teamed with patent ballet flats and a canvas tote for a more casual look.

2. RETRO INSPIRED



Cropped sweaters are a great way to wear this trend when the temperature drops. This is another street style look we spotted on Refinery 29. The plaid pants teamed with a sky blue sweater make for a fun look, with just the slightest retro hint.

3. BLACK AND WHITE SEPARATES



Gabi, from GabiFresh, wears a white crop top with a leather-look skater skirt and sleeveless blazer. It’s a crisp layered look that makes the most of this season’s monochrome trends. Turquoise accents add fun and fresh touches to the look.

4. CROPPED SWEATERS



Stacey Young snapped this fall-appropriate outfit on the streets of Seoul. A cropped light brown sweater teamed with a checked midi skirt and ankle boots makes for an on-trend outfit. The slight hint of skin and chunky ankle boots add edgy touches to this otherwise demure outfit.

5. DRESSED UP CHIC


Miss iffy, porpularly know as purpleena_ivory on Instagram rocked a turtle neck crop top with a classy acid wash denim skirt... The heels transformed the outfit giving her classy yet not over the top look....  Short heels do that to you and I love them

6. CASUALLY COOL


Boxy crop tops are great for working a casual look. Rukhmah was snapped for Glamour wearing a boxy cropped shirt with high-waisted jeans. It’s a casual combination that looks effortlessly cool topped off with a wide brimmed hat and slouchy side bag. The jelly sandals are also a fun touch.

7. HEAD TO TOE COLOUR



This street style look, spotted on the Stylesight blog, shows us how to wear the cropped top in a more polished manner. The softly structured top is balanced out by the tailored pants. The head to toe navy creates a streamlined outfit and looks super stylish teamed with nude heels and metallic and red accents.

8. MATCHING SET



Lia-Belle was snapped by Jessie Bush wearing this matching top and skirt combination. The cut of the top and skirt is quite flattering and reveals the slightest hint of skin. The jagged striped pattern is also a fun twist on a classic pattern. Studded ankle strap flats complete this fashion-forward look.

9. ATHLETIC



Crop tops are inherently sporty. That means they’re ideal for working a sport luxe look. Lucillia was photographed by Brandie Raasch wearing a white crop top with high-waisted print shorts and a sheer bomber jacket. A clear clutch and retro sneakers complete this athletic outfit.

These are just some ideas on how to rock a crop top. What’s your take on the crop top trend? Which of these looks do you like best?

more DIY hairstyle inspirationes

Imagine you’re about to attend a party or some other special event and you don’t have time to visit the hairdresser. What would be the first thing to come on your mind? “Can I do something by myself?” The answer is: yes, you can. And it’s easy. In this post I present you simple step by step hairstyles. They are easy to do. You just need to follow the instructions and do what is shown in the photos. You will be surprised with your abilities. You will make yourself look amazing from tip to toe. For updated looks don’t forget to visit our webpage daily. Get inspired for new hairstyles and fashion tips. Enjoy the step by step hairstyles!

15 Simple Step By Step Hairstyles

15 Simple Step By Step Hairstyles

15 Simple Step By Step Hairstyles

15 Simple Step By Step Hairstyles

15 Simple Step By Step Hairstyles

15 Simple Step By Step Hairstyles
15 Simple Step By Step Hairstyles


15 Simple Step By Step Hairstyles
15 Simple Step By Step Hairstyles

Braided Updo Hairstyle on Natural Hair





OK guys... today am real feeling like giving y'all some hairstyle inspiration from my favourite hair  guru kyss my hair... though I have done the big chop and cut off all my hair... don't worry, pictures soon,  but I know ladies always need  some new ideas... so heres a video showing how to pack up your hair, get creative guys, you don't need to copy the exact thing, you could add your own unique twist to it...  enjoy!!

Rose Marie Reid Swimsuits, 1954

Tired of winter?  Here's a bit of relief.  This ad for Rose Marie swimsuits is from November of 1954 and featured two jewel-toned suits for tropical vacations during the winter of that year.  The suits are incredible, but note the matching scarves that were designed specifically to coordinate by Rex.  And then note the addition of the rhinestone starfish brooch on the pink scarf.  Love!

"Pouf go those winter winds! Blaze goes the sun...and from Trinidad to Tuscan, Majorca to Miami, you're part of the fun!  Smart girl, if you're a second-vacation traveler, revitalizing for the rest of the year. Lucky girl, if your first flight is in fashion...a new shape that says you've arrived!  The shape, a feather boned sheath.  The suits, "Court Lady," left, $19.95. "Beau Catcher," right, $17.95." (That's about $173 and $156 in today's dollar.)

Photo from a full page ad appearing in Harper's Bazaar for Rose Marie Reid, 1954.

Dress code style tips; who what wear!!



Picking out an outfit according to a dress code can be difficult, but once you learn the basics, you can choose the right thing to wear more easily. Whether your party invitation includes a dress code or it doesn’t, you can figure out what to wear with a few simple tips.

Learn more about party dress codes to pick the right look for every event, and you’ll have little trouble in choosing the right clothes even when your invitation lacks any recommended dress code. Here are the party dress codes explained, from the most elegant to casual.


White Tie

When you receive an invitation to a white tie event, only the best of your wardrobe will suffice. Think formal evening gowns and jewelry that you only wear on special occasions. For most white tie events gloves are optional, but they’re always welcome and can help you achieve the white tie dress code more easily. For hair and makeup, stick to simple and sophisticated: updos, long strands of pearls and French manicure.


Black Tie

Very formal events, but a bit less dressy, black tie events are one of the party dress codes that is misinterpreted most frequently. You don’t have to stick to long gowns or even knee-length dresses. You can wear separates for black tie events, as long as your look is truly polished. The perfect bag is a clutch and the right way to go with jewelry is one statement piece: either a necklace or chandelier earrings.

Black Tie Optional

The optional part is a tip for men, who can wear dark suits instead of tuxedos. For women, the same rules apply as for the black tie party dress code. Keep your hemlines at the knee or below. If you to wear a shorter dress or skirt, make sure it’s truly a show stopper.

Creative Black Tie Formal

While party dress codes for white tie and black tie usually imply a simple and elegant look, you can take more risks when it comes to creative black tie. That means less restrictions for hem length and dressy pants become another good option. Pair a dress with a sweater or go for separates in more expensive fabrics. You should still stick to a clutch, but the updo is no longer recommended.

Cocktail Attire

The little black dress is truly the star of your outfit when your invitation says Cocktail or Semiformal. Party dress codes allow for a lot more freedom, especially in the makeup department, when you can try a shimmery body lotion or even glossy lips. Braided puns and high ponytails are good look for your hair. You can also take a few more color risks with cool pastels and jewel toned looks.

Festive

Also known as Holiday Attire or Creative Cocktail, the Festive dress code tests your creativity when it comes to color. Go bold in your color choices and your jewelry without wearing anything too tacky. You’re also allowed to sparkle when it comes to your shoes and purse, but don’t overdo it with a lot of flashy elements. A cardigan over a dress is a good combo, but you can also opt for separates.



Casual Chic

When it comes to party dress codes, Casual Chic is also known as Smart Casual or Dressy Casual. You can try a dark shade of jeans. Blazers and even jumpsuits are among your options. When you’re not sure if your outfit is too elegant for casual chic, wear it anyway. For dressy casual, it’s better to be over-dressed than under-dressed. For hair and makeup, don’t fuss too much and think office or job interview looks.

Casual / Come as You Are

The casual look doesn’t mean gym clothes or graphic tees. You can wear jeans or capris, depending on the type of event or a simple dress. You don’t have to worry about your makeup and hair too much, but mascara and lip gloss are an appreciated effort.

What to Wear When There’s No Dress Code

If your invitation lacks any mention of party dress codes, take a closer look. Embossed invites usually mean at least cocktail attire. The time of the event is very important, you can pull off casual chic for anything before 5 PM, but go for a more elegant look when the event starts at 5 or later. Finding out more about the location is also helpful, since outdoor events usually mean a less formal look will be fine.


Any questions?

Springs hottest trend; PASTELS




In this post we present you the spring hottest trend – pastels! They are always present in spring time. Say goodbye to the dull and dark clothing and wear fresh pastels. Pastels are soft colours usually called pale, soft, washed out, they are usually darker than white but softer than light colours...

 Browse through the gallery of photos below and see how these divas managed to combine them in their lovely outfits.

Being the official colors of spring and summer, pastels flatter your outfits and make you look cute and stylish. If you don’t look at your best in pastel colors and still want to incorporate them in your outfit, add a touch of light colors with pastel accessories of bags. Slip into these amazing colors and welcome the spring! Enjoy









It's a beautiful shade and it has been spotted on the fashion week spring 2014 runways... Designers are loving the shade.. And I think it's beautiful, the weather is especially hot, bright colours help with the heat..
What's your take ladies

Burberry prorsum spring 2014


I hate to say I told you so, but i told you so!! Lace is in this season and Burberry took the trend to a whole new level with laces in pastels, mint greens, blush pink.. Totally adorable.




They are cute... It's an awesome collection






Every Day Will Count

Today marks the 4th anniversary of the tragic death of my sister Barbara. As I do each year, I want to share her words with you. This is a reprint of a post I wrote in February, 2010. Please hug someone you love today.

Thank you all so very much for your heartfelt thoughts, prayers, and words of condolence over the past week. The loss of my dear sister has been devastating to me and my entire family. Your words meant a lot.

My sister Barbara was 5 years younger than me, which disproves the theory "Older is wiser", as she taught me many life lessons through the years. Barbara taught me how important it is to define your dreams and then go and get them for yourself. She taught me that it was OK to pursue being happy with my life. She taught me to take care of myself first, so I could be the best mom possible for my children. She taught me what it means to be a friend through her ability to listen and care. She taught me what it means to be a sister through her love for me, Pam, Becky and Brenda. She taught me what it means to be a daughter through her abiding love and respect for our parents. She taught me what it means to be a mother through her willingness to do anything for her children. She taught me what it means to be an aunt through her caring for all her nieces and nephews.

Barbara's passing has left a rift in my family that will never be filled. I wish that I had spoken with her in the week before she died and told her how much I loved her. As it is, I must believe that she knows it somehow.

Please reach out to someone in your family today and tell them that you love them. You never know if it will be your last chance.

During the past week, I found the following passage written by Barbara in her journal. It was written sometime in 2000, the year she turned 39. It was read at her memorial service on Thursday, and I want to share it with you here.

"What can I say, but be true to you and you will never disappoint yourself.
Try to treat your children as you would see your perfect self behave.
Don't sell yourself short. Amazing things can happen - even at 39.
If you were to know that you would have your last year on earth - how would you live your life?
Don't settle.
Know that every day will count.
Go surf, ride the bike with the kids, plant a tree, put a fence in, put a hot tub in.
Try to make a difference for your children."


Rest in peace now, my beautiful sister. I love you.

Fashion finds; the little things (statement mini bag)

This mini bag has been on my wish list for months now.,. I call it the little things,..

It's a really small bag, smaller than a clutch and almost useless to some... But chic on so many levels.
I have been seeing them on some really fashionable ladies and I think it's a fashion do, and a fashion must have for every lady... It's nice for an evening with the girls or a hot date.. I feel it makes a statement!



Aren't they just adorable!

What do you think ladies? You agree?

Converse chic

The popularity of Converse shoes is constantly growing and the reason for that may be the fact that they’re so versatile and come in so many colors to fit our moods or outfits. They add cool and casual element to every outfit and fit everything! From sport to casual and stylish! I present you ways to wear your Converse sneakers.

You can wear them with jeans, leggings, shorts, skirts, dresses. You can make many looks just by playing with the laces. If you want to look casual don’t tie the last 2 lace holes and for a sloppy one loosen them and leave them untied. Moreover, you can remove all the laces, sew the tongue on the sides and you’ll get Converse slips-on. I believe that Converse lovers have more than one pair at their homes. It’s good to have both high and low tops and different colors. Browse through the gallery of photos below and see the combinations. Every single one of them is adorable!







Is this a look you would try?





5 fashion tips to look taller

If you’re a short girl and want to appear taller, here are a 5 fashion tips to look taller. You should try different styles and see what works for you. Find a way and experiment with your clothes. Follow my advice

High-Waisted

High-waisted short, skirts or pants will elongate your legs and will add a few centimeters to your height.  One of my favorite looks are high-waisted pants and the blouse tucked in them. You can tuck it in only in the front and let it hang in the behind.




Platforms

The platform heels have an extra heel and will add a couple of inches to your appearance. You can buy yourself wedges and booties in this style and you will look taller and feel comfortable at the same time.


Color Blend

Another way to look taller is the trick with color blending. You need to match the color of your shoes to the color of your pants, so your legs will look longer.




Maxi

Maxi skirts or dresses are a great way to appear taller. They look amazing on short girls even with flats, sandals or flip flops. You will also feel comfortable all day long.



Crop Top

The crop top will make your torso appear shorter and thus will elongate your legs. Make sure you pair it with high waisted pants or skirts so your cropped top won’t be too far split from your bottoms.



Rock it, wear it! Style it and love it....

Which is your favorite look