The Colorful Look: 5 Tips and Tricks

The colorful look

I have just been loving the colorful look these days! I don’t know if it’s because it’s summer, but I am wearing all kinds of bright colors. Last week was no different.

I initially found this dress at a consignment shop in the fall. Because it required some ironing, it sat in a bin for a good several months. Do you all ever accidentally do that? You keep thinking that you’ll iron it tomorrow or the next day. Every time you think about wearing it, you decide to just wear something that’s ready to go. Well that was this dress. It doesn’t look like it, but that material wrinkles rather easily.

The Colorful look

I also want to note that behind me is a mushroom house. It’s famous here in Cincinnati. Here’s a better look at it:

The colorful look

My 5 tips and tricks for the colorful look

  1. Just go for it! I hate when I hear other people saying “I could never pull that off.” I feel like more than anything, that statement comes from a fear of looking silly. There really is no sort of green light or insiders club. Those that are making fashion statements are just doing it, with or without permission. The next time you’re out shopping, just go for it! Pick the boldest and most colorful dress you can find!
  2. Accessorize accessorize accessorize. The great thing about a colorful dress is that you have so many colors to pick from. I could have added some hot pink accessories to this look or some purple things. I could have taken it in a completely different direction and added white. With this look, I just happened to have bought earrings that have most or all the colors in my dress. What do you know?The colorful look
  3. Allow the dress to make the statement. I’m not a huge fan of mixing patterns. Furthermore with something as bold as this dress, another bold item could be too much. Keep your shoes and sweaters solid colors that compliment the look.
  4. Pick colors that look good on you. For me, I love blues and greens. This dress is full of colors that are “my colors.” What are not my colors? I’m not much of a fan of yellow or beige. While there is some yellow here’s it’s certainly not the focal point.
  5. Have fun! Play around with different colors. Do something different with your hair. If you’re going bold, go all out!

The colorful look

The colorful look

The colorful look

The colorful dress

I hope your Wednesday is awesome!

Today I’m linking up with these gals:

Wednesday

Jersey Girl Texan Heart, Happiness at Mid-LifeShopping My Closet, Pumps and Pushups, The Pleated PoppySydney Fashion HunterThe Mummy Chronicles, Cappuccino and Fashion and Posh Classy Mom

Thursday

Elegance and MommyhoodDoused in Pink, Curly Crafty Mom

Friday

Two Thirty-Five DesignsNancy’s Fashion Style, Jeans & a Teacup, Claire Justine, Rachel the Hat, A Poketful of Polka Dots, Forage Fashion, Fashion Should be Fun, Sincerely Paula

 

 

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Ultimate recipe for a colorful go-to dress

go-to colorful dress

Ah the go-to dress. We all have one … or six. It’s that dress that we worry we’ve washed too many times. We wonder when it’ll start falling apart at the seams. It’s just easy to wear it. It goes with everything. It’s appealing.

This here is one of my winter go-to’s. I bought it at Francescas and have not looked back. It’s made of a nice, sweater material. Pair that with some boots and it’s the perfect dress to wear in the winter time. My friend Hillary from hillarycutterphoto.com shot these at the Cincinnati Art Museum in the fall. This pink wall was absolutely perfect.

go-to colorful dress

I remember I initially wanted to try white tights with boots for this outfit. What do you do when you’re unsure of an outfit idea? Look it up on Pinterest, of course. By the way, are you following us on Pinterest? Click here if not.

I’m very pleased with how the white tights look. What do you think?

Recipe for a colorful go-to dress:

  1. It absolutely has to be comfortable.
  2. Make sure the colors suit you.
  3. Make sure you have ample amounts of accessories to match. Example: my red earrings and black belt.
  4. Stop and think before buying: would I for real wear this?

go-to colorful dress

go-to colorful dress

go-to colorful dress

go-to colorful dress

My linkups:

Wednesday

Jersey Girl Texan Heart, Shopping My Closet, Pumps and Pushups, The Pleated PoppySydney Fashion HunterThe Mummy Chronicles, Cappuccino and Fashion and Posh Classy Mom

Thursday

Elegance and MommyhoodDoused in Pink, Curly Crafty Mom

Friday

Two Thirty-Five DesignsNancy’s Fashion Style, Jeans & a Teacup, Claire Justine, Rachel the Hat, A Poketful of Polka Dots, Forage Fashion, Fashion Should be Fun, Sincerely Paula

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The dresses of Sara’s wedding

Last weekend, I was in a wedding. If you follow me on Instagram, though, this may be old news to you. My rehearsal dinner look was one of my favorites and I could not just not post it. So I did.

Over the weekend, I snapped photos of myself and other women in dresses. Here are a few of my favorites.

Beth, my new bestie

Don’t you just love it when you click with a person? The guy Sara married has a pretty awesome sister and she was a bridesmaid. It’s so neat when you have family members in your wedding because you want to, not just because you’re obligated too. Sure, you’re supposed to have the groom’s sister in your bridal party. However I think Sara asked her also because she’s been such a wonderful and welcoming person.

sara dress

Her lovely rehearsal dinner look.

sara dress

 

Bridesmaid time!

Beth kept joking that as Sara’s sister, she was going to start stealing her things. She decided she was starting with me.

My looks

I wore so many dresses this past weekend. Here are the important ones: day of and rehearsal diner.

sara dress

sara dress

The dress

sara dress

Jersey Girl Texan HeartPleated Poppy, Pumps and Pushups, Walking in Memphis in High Heels, Sydney Fashion Hunter, Shopping My Closet, Elegance and Mommyhood, Doused in Pink, Curly Crafty Mom, Birth of a Fashion Blogger

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5 Tips for Ruffles and Tulle

Below is our weekly column by Beauty Consultant Pamela Pitts. She has her own business styling hair, makeup and apparel. Check her out at lbaeinspire.net

As spring approaches and summer is near its time to assemble your dresses for fun times and cheer! Yes fun gatherings, galas and more! What better way to show up than in a dress that you simply adore! Okay maybe you’re wondering what’s up with the riddle. I’m just having fun with my words as they flow as smooth as a fiddle with lyrics and sound so delightful it seems, but I will get to the gist of my message so you will know what it means. Yes what it means to be dressed in ruffles and tulle, two fabrics of material that complete each other creating a full beautiful combination that can be worn about on any occasion.

ruffle dress

ruffle dress

I absolutely love the dress that has ruffles and tulle that makes for a sophistication that adds elegance to the dress that’s dull. The combination of both requires confidence when wearing as the woman who puts the fabrics together has a self-assurance that is daring. Yes you have to have some confidence to wear ruffles and tulle. You know the kind of spice that adds kick to any fuel! The fuel is the inspiration that we all have within; sometimes we need a sizzle to allow our creativity to begin. Creative enough to wear that dress with a shape that stands out, making a statement that you are here and fashion is what it’s all about. Yes so glamorous and chic you are, just adding the right pair of heels and you will look just like a star! Maybe you feel that the tulle fabric isn’t really for you as this material can seem hard, itchy and unattractive. Or maybe the ruffles remind you of your childhood days as you twirled around in your kiddish ways! Its okay for ruffles and tulle are back in style again so reacquaint you with yourself… your childhood friend! The one who remembers twirling around in ruffles and tulle, hey that’s you isn’t this so cool! It’s a wonderful thing to witness an old trend! What if you are thinking you can’t remember how to intertwine your ruffles and tulle to your dress to achieve the response of wow? Here are a few tips to help you along the way as you remember how to wear ruffles and tulle!

  1. Accessorize your ruffles and tulle if you think they are not enough by themselves so go ahead have fun by adding bracelets, long necklaces and jewels… and Oh don’t forget a belt to snatch in that waist!
  2. Add color to your style of ruffle and tulle as any color will make this look pop!
  3. The high heel is an important item to any style of dress but especially to achieve the ruffles and tulle look at its best.
  4. Length is an important factor as you don’t want your Ruffles and Tulle to drag the ground for this is an out dated statement that will make you look more like a clown! Get your Sexy on, opt for the shorter look!
  5. Attitude is everything! Show off your confidence with fun! Wear your ruffles and tulle with pride, and know that you have won. Looking fabulous with style and grace with a gleaming smile upon your face! Yes confidence you have it and it cannot be out done!

ruffle dress ruffle dress ruffle dress ruffle dress

L’BAE All Day… Every Day! I’m Pamela the Inspirationalist. Make it a L’BAE Day!

 

Today we’re linking up with Elegance and Mommyhood, Curly Crafty Mom, Doused in Pink

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Satin, Lace, Bows and Ties

Spring is approaching and the time for the beauty of dresses adorned with satin, lace, bows and ties combined with the glam of a lovely hat is upon us. I love a great lace dress. Oh what a beautiful time this is to see a variety of females young and old draped in an array of colors, fabrics, and style. Each individual walks with confidence in the dress that they have chosen whether for that special occasion or just to be fashion forward while walking in the park. Yes confidence! To embellish your dress any way that you would like in order to give it that pizzazz that will turn heads near and far. It’s that time! Time to adorn your dress with satin, lace, bows and ties! This is such an exciting time for all of us fashionistas as beauty and glamour begin to emerge right before our eyes! Maybe you desire to feel this same excitement as you shop for your special occasion dress, but need a little help with how to make your dress pop. It’s ok; here are a few tips on how to add satin, lace, bows, and ties to your dress:

lace dress

One lace dress here.

  1. The satin and lace look

    Ok ladies it doesn’t matter if you wear your little black, red, green, or navy blue dress, color is not important when adding a satin or lace piece of material. Just make sure that whatever satin color you choose to use matches in contrast with the dress; such as a yellow dress can use a white satin or blue satin material. It’s your personal preference.

  • How to wear satin and lace- Tie the satin or lace material strip long or short in length around your waist in order to give a perfect silhouette shape to any figure and a polished look to any style dress. You can allow the material to drape, tie it into a bow, or secure it with a small safety pin for the belted look.
  • The lace can be hot glued with fabric glue around the collar or sleeves of your dress. This look is even cute on sleeveless dresses around the borders of the dress.
  • You can choose any pattern of satin material strip to adorn your dress. One of my favorites is to use a polka dot satin strip on an all black or white dress. This look is so cute and chic for spring and summer!

lace dress

Another classic lace here.

  1. Bows and Ties-

    I absolutely adore bows and ties as they bring to life any style, or color, dress. It may sound weird but this is a true fashion statement to add a bow or tie to your dress. If you have a yellow summer dress and you add a pink tie (thin fabric) which stops at the mid chest and a pair of white pearl earrings… can you say WOW! This look can be accomplished with a cute pink bow tie as well! A bow I know may sound a bit kid dish but a woman can add a bow to the right place on her dress and achieve sophistication. I’ve seen it as well as have done it myself! Try it…if you don’t like it take it off!

That’s the fun about fashion: no one person is alike. We can all wear our ideas, styles and colors as it relates to a dress differently. The important thing is to feel good when you decide how you will adorn your dress with satin, lace, bows, and ties! Just be you, and make it your own! Have a L’BAE (Living Blessed and Empowered) Day! I Am!

I’m Pamela the Inspirationalist, make it a L’BAE Day!

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A dress mixed with red

This is my mixed dress. Last week I got up like any morning and searched through my closet for a dress to wear. As I was shuffling through, this little black dress caught my attention. I bought it in the fall at Target. I had tried on probably 5+ dresses and it was between two. I did what probably many of us do: texted my best friend photos of both. She told me to go for this one and I’m so glad I did.

When I first bought the dress, I envisioned wearing it out with friends or on dates (if I was dating … ha). It has a fun and flirty look to it, after all. Yet last week, I spotted the dress and my red blazer, and decided to try something. I loved the way the two looked together and I had accessories to match. Perfect!

So this past Monday, I re-created the outfit and took an adventure to the Anderson Heritage Center, this beautiful historic home that now serves as a wedding venue. It’s not far from where I grew up and I have found memories of playing there as a kid. I’ve been meaning to do a shoot there and this outfit seemed perfect.

mixed dress

mixed dress

mixed dress

DSC_0050

mixed dress

mixed dress

Dress: Target; Blazer: Burlington Coat Factory; Necklace/earrings: Charming Charlie; Bag: Target

Linking up with Pumps and Pushups, Jersey Girl Texan Heart, Doused in Pink, Elegance and Mommyhood and The Pleated Poppy

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That Beautiful Dress

That beautiful dress … you know the one that hugs your every curve, fitting you so perfectly as if it was made especially for you! The dress that sends the message to others that you have arrived! The dress that defines who you are by its prints, shape and style without having to add any accessories. You have this dress right? If not, then you should!

It’s that go to piece that is appropriate for any occasion and season as well. The dress that captivates others and sparks a curiosity leading to the question: where does she shop? The fabric of the dress whether flowy, airy, light, or stiff and defined is the fabric of your choice and enhances your every move. As you walk the fabric gently mimics your strut as it allows just enough movement to state that the two of you are separate and you are in control. You decide how you want to wear the dress: long, short, medium in length, straps or strapless, fitted or loose. Whether or not to add a belt, beads, jewels or a sweater is up to you as your beautiful dress is perfect just the way it is!

dress

A Few Tips to Consider when Wearing your Beautiful Dress

  1. Always have a cute cover piece for those short dresses That show too much of your legs when you sit. This can be a shear piece of material that matches the color scheme of your dress.
  2. The long dress Make sure that you give yourself enough of a hem not to step on the dress entangling your shoes and causing you to trip. This is a horrible and embarrassing situation to occur! Here’s a trick if your dress is too long (such as the case with some maxi dresses): you can knot one of the ends giving you still a sexy but low maintenance affect. Or you can merely grab a small part of your dress and hold it as you walk!
  3. The Flowy dress Make sure that you have on a sexy pair of thongs, boy shorts or a slip if you are modest just in case your dress is see through and rises in the wind! Color coordinating of your under garments are good for the flowy dress!
  4. The fitted dress Make sure that you give yourself wiggle room as you wear the fitted dress, you wouldn’t want to take a seat and have your dress rip right from under you! That would be a cool but unwanted breeze!
  5. Finally when wearing your beautiful dress feel the way you look. In other words, adorn your dress with the beautiful characteristics that are naturally a part of you… your smile, your body language and your own self-worth. It will bring to life your beautiful dress as well as you!

Have fun in your beautiful dress as you twirl around in joy and excitement wearing your dress to the remarkable endless places of life’s journey! What better way to enjoy life than to be wearing a dress that makes you feel beautiful both inside and out! Twirl on! L’BAE All Day… Every Day!

I’m Pamela the Inspirationalist! Make it a L’BAE Day!

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5 ways I honor my mom

honoring my mom

This past Tuesday, I got caught in a downpour. I was walking to lunch with a few friends and the place ended up being farther away than we thought. The original plan was to take photos in this cute cafe we were headed to. Then for a few moments, I decided against that considering that I was soaked. Yet after I checked myself in the mirror, I decided “eh, why not?” My blog is not about myself or anyone else looking perfect. It’s about sharing life with the world around me. Sometimes that means getting caught in a downpour.

How I honor my mom

This dress was found on sale at H & M several months back. I instantly loved how easy of a dress it is. You just put it on with some tights and boots, and you are ready to go. I’ve also always worn it with a good necklace.

honoring my mom

As many of you know, my mom passed in January. She was a big fan of the Hunger Games, so my best friend got me two Mockingjay necklaces for Christmas. She was in hospice during that time. She was buried in one of them and I have the other.

I had not yet worn it and I’m not really sure why. Yet on Tuesday, it just seemed to go with the outfit. It was such a neat way to remember my mom throughout the day. Thus it got me thinking of ways that I remember and honor my mom.

1. Jewelry

The Mockingjay necklace is not the only piece of jewelry I have that’s connected to her. Anything she gave me is something that connects me to her. I have this necklace with the letter N on it and several other things. I also have scarves and dresses that she gave me with such love.

honoring my mom

2. My dog Toby

Dogs were also one of her favorite things. She loved our dog Toby a lot. She also loved animal rescues and I’m sure would have fostered 20 dogs if she could. So any time that I spend with Toby I know is making her happy.

honoring my mom

3. Just doing what I love

My mom was always a big proponent of me chasing my dreams. She was always my biggest supporter and wanted nothing to hold her back. I know she’s looking down proudly.

honoring my mom

4. Watching all her favorite shows

We would spend a lot of time watching TV shows with her such as The Middle, The Office, Parks and Recreation and The Big Bang Theory. I can just imagine all the things she’d say.

5. Just being me

Because she never wanted me to be anyone else.

 

Today I’m linking up with:

Della, Tif, Caitlin and Katie

Liz Adventures, Carolina Charm, Hello! Happiness, The Good Life Blog

 

 

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My five dresses from the past

Hi all! Happy Friday! So for today’s top five post, I thought I would change it up a bit. When I started this blog, I interviewed several women each week. While I have taken a small break from that life, I plan to feature one woman each week starting at the beginning of March.

Anyway, so after looking through photos from the past, I’ve made a list of some of my favorites. Now I want to stress the word some here. I have many, many more favorites than this list here.

1. Imbue by J Russo

dress

Jena made this dress entirely herself. This is what she wore on her wedding day. Also fun fact: this dress takes the record for most likes on my Instagram page … 106!

2. Tabitha and her tiny house of dresses

dress

This one was super fun to shoot. The weather was downright amazing. Tabatha and her husband live in a tiny house that I had the opportunity of visiting.

3. Taylor’s world of dresses

dress

I featured Taylor several months back. This elegant gown was her senior recital dress from college. It is absolutely stunning.

4. The lovely Rita

dress

Rita is a good friend of mine who I featured in October. She always has the neatest dresses. This one is from Ottoman Imports, a lovely local boutique in Covington, Ky. The woman who owns this shop finds unique pieces from all over the world. This is one of many.

5. Jenny’s sparkles

dress

Jenni is a local salsa dancer. We did a photoshoot in several of her amazing dresses. I absolutely love this one and how she pairs it with some fun, sparkly heels.

 

Well folks, happy Friday! Hope you have an amazing one! I’m off to girls night in just a few hours!

Also, linking up with:

Della, Tif, Katie and Caitlin

The Closet by Christie

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Pamela and her date night look

date

Hi L’BAE Nation You Beautiful Blessed People of GOD! What a wonderful time it is between the weather changing and the freshness of a New Year still in the air. Many of us, although, may already be in the frame of mind for a much needed vacation! With the hustle and bustle of life and everything under the sun emerging all at once, what the excitement of the day usually brings can sometimes have more of an overwhelming effect, which may leave us all feeling gloomy! Yes Gloomy! Between work, kids, finances, relationships, you name it, there is something that will try to bog us down! We have to include self-care into our regimen as it is vital that we take care of our own well being in order to be at our best. We have to make those gloomy feelings go away by adding a spark of excitement to our life weather you choose to add a daily, weekly, or monthly spark, it’s up to you! What kind of spark you may be wondering. A spark is something that will brighten up your week with a feeling of expectancy of the joy to come, such as a date night with someone whose company you enjoy! What better way to relax and unwind from all that life throws our way than with the person whom you hold dear and close in your heart! It can be a best friend, a child, spouse or even a date with yourself for some much needed alone time. In my case this person is my husband! Yes my adoring beloved husband and it just so happens to be our 16th year wedding anniversary this coming Friday February 5th 2016! Happiness and excitement in the air as I plan for our beautiful and wonderful date night!

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What to Wear?

Okay Ladies you may be wondering what does one wear on a date night? Whatever your little heart’s desire as long as it is chic and hot! How can you be Chic and Hot at the same time? Easy, keep your attire cute and classy (CAC)! Love It! In other words keep it Simple! There is no need to go all out and spend a fortune on an outfit as long as you can be chic. You can be fashionable with the clothes already in your closet. Remember that everyone has their own sense of style so, do not feel pressured or challenged by what you may see someone else wear as this is a time for relaxation not a pass or fail test on who wore it better! You can choose whether or not to wear a dress, jeans and a cute top, high heels or flats, as it is a personal choice for the occasion in which you have planned.

I chose to wear a colorful floral dress with hints of reds, gold and black with a pair of cream high-heeled suede boots and a black sweater to tie it all together. I chose this outfit because I knew that my husband and I were going to an elegant restaurant for dinner and then to hear some jazz afterwards. The outfit that I chose would serve its purpose for style, comfort and keeping my husband’s attention! I will be able to comfortably enjoy myself in a relaxing atmosphere and still look stunning while doing so!

18588a4a-5976-41c6-a4a2-20fa2ecb9a51

Time Considered!

I know ladies that sometimes we can be pressed for time. We are never late, it’s just that the time seems to be moving faster when we have somewhere to be. I know… I get it! For those of us whose time seems to slip away and your date is making you feel guilty because you’re not quite ready yet, no worries! Here are some quick simple tips to get you out the door!

  1. Hygiene Ok Ladies this is a MUST! Let’s smell Amazing, and have our hair and nails polished!
  2. Check your face to make sure that your makeup application is still flawless, the L’BAE cosmetic line will not budge, or smudge as your face will stay as striking as when you first put it on!
  3. Outfit check! Make sure that all accessories match your attire. Do not forget earrings, bracelets, necklace, belt or anything that would offset your outfit!
  4. Know which pair of shoes you are going to wear, if they are not already on your feet! Then set them near the door.
  5. Last, grab your jacket, or coat and be on your way. Try these tips in a 30 minute timed session prior to your real date night, that way you will be an expert on the night of the date! Remember this is your Date Night a time to relax and unwind, so look Cute and Classy, and Have FUN! L’BAE ALL DAY… EVERY DAY!

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