Timeless Stylin'

I love adore styling clothes!  I remember the first time my Mom allowed me and my friend Debbie to venture into the city centre to buy our own outfits.  The thrill, the excitement of putting together our own 'stylish' outfits...pure bliss. That lavender sweatshirt and white skin-tight jean buying shopping adventure is one of my all-time happiest tween memories. Years later, working as a fashion stylist/ women's boutique employee was probably the most fun I ever had at a part-time job.

Fast forward to this week when I interviewed a 60-something year-old woman fashion store owner for an article I am working on (more about that venture another time) I was inspired by her effortless elegance and style.  Belted maxi dress, cropped cardigan, brightly colored nails, rose red lipstick, all wrapped together with a confidence and love for fashion that oozed out of this woman's pores.  When I asked her what her best style advice is, without thinking she said, "Wear what you love!"   Yes, this woman was timeless stylin' indeed.

So in honor of New York Fashion Week (which I will one day hopefully attend), here are some of my favorite timeless stylin' fashion trends.

1.  Belt It.  Every woman has a waist no matter how many inches it comprises.  Belting an outfit showcases that waist and really makes a difference in your look and posture.  Just ask Nashville fashionista Miss Tiffany Johnson :-) Hey, Cleopatra wore a midriff belt so I'm thinking she knew what she was doing.

2.  Lipstick.  Ok, so Jedward wrote a song about it (Google Jedward and lipstick music video if you want a good laugh), and I shamefully admit they are right.  Wearing a great colored lipstick is a statement piece all by itself.  Burgundy is apparently a big trend for fall, but I love a soft baby pink or traditional red.

Photo Credit:  Keiko Lynn Fashion Blogger

3. Accessorize.  Adding a statement piece of jewelry is like placing a frame on a beautiful work of art.  Since I have a tendency to lose expensive jewelry, I actually prefer the low-investment involvement of trendy accessories from stores like Charming Charlie, Forever 21 and H&M.  Who said you can't make a statement with $10?!

Photo credit: Statement necklace from Piperlime

4. Shoes.  Ballet flats, pumps, wedges, boots...can a woman every have enough pairs of shoes? That would be a high-heeled Hell No! Comfort and style really do mix and don't forget to invest in some soft sole inserts; seriously changed my shoe life.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

5. Wrap Dress.  Flatters every shape and size... if you are a woman you need a wrap dress in your basic style pile.

Photo Credit: Polyvore

6. Confidence.  Fashion is what you buy but style is how you add in your personality and carry yourself with confidence.  Since it hasn't been socially appropriate to live a naked life full time, clothes are probably going to be a daily necessity for the rest of your life. If you wear clothes then you have a personal style, embrace it!

Peace & Blessings,
Fiona Olubunmi