summer | Emily Bracey

Seriously, when did I blink and have two seasons flash before my eyes? The severity of this situation is probably more dramatic than it should be because I just got back from a fabulous vacation! Las Vegas! Three days ago I was laying out on a rooftop, under a cabana, pool side. This morning my hair froze because Western NY decided two weeks of Autumn is two weeks too long. Western NY? Yes, I moved back home after graduation. Why? Because I was blessed with an awesome job in retail at Chautauqua Institution. Plus, my boss is hands down better than yours. Don’t you fret, Big Apple, I’ll be back before you know it. As for this summer: My mornings at the gym, long days at work, and nights at the bars all contribute to me only opening my Laptop five times since my last post. The past few months have flown by, but my list of “what am I going to blog about because I’m not in NYC right now” is pretty lengthy… Tutorials, DIYs, life rantings, stories, experiences and more; they will all be blowing up your inbox these next few days. I have a lot to say and as usual I’ll be very opinionated about it all. Hope all is well with you, dear reader! Stay fabulous!! XOXO

Spring Break is just around the corner and if you are like me you will be waiting until last minute to do your vacation shopping. No, I’m not talking bikinis and sunscreen. I’m talking about the fashion trends that will be carried into the rest of the Spring/Summer 2014 seasons, the fashion trends you can’t be without.

#1- The Shift Dress

There is going to be major 60s and 70s influence this season. The simple shape of the shift dress allows the focus to center on other details, prints and patterns.

#2- Patterned Pants

Seen in many collections, patterned pants are seen again as a popular item for Spring 14. Along with the prints and patterns defining the trend, silhouettes are a key factor this season. Peg leg, skinny, wide leg, cropped and pajama styles will offer a style suitable for everyone.

#3- The Peplum

Now I know what you’re thinking, ‘Emily, this is not a new trend!’, but just give me a minute to explain. A few seasons ago the peplum came back on the runway and you should expect to see it for a few more. The peplum can be altered and designed to fit into many trends. For example, it can be soft with ruffles, more structured and edgy, or pleated and color blocked. Halter and zip-front peplums will be flying off the shelves this spring and summer!

#4- The Boxy Top

The boxy top this season covers a variety of trends and looks from retro to futuristic looks. What makes it different from past season are the broad and exaggerated shoulders with wide sleeves. As for fabrics and colors, boxy tops will include sheer inserts, epaulettes and color blocking.

#5- Pencil Skirt

The pencil skirt can be worn for more than just the office, ladies! It is an all-time favorite of mine as well! It offers a great hourglass silhouette and favored with a high classic waist. The pencil skirt can have side slits and other construction details to update the style and look fresh.

Now these are just a few of the spring/summer 2014 fashion trends! So shop around and figure out what you see popping up in multiple stores and what is in the front on display. Fashion is like science, you have to do your research to get it right. Have fun and look fabulous on your spring break vacations 🙂

EB-ology- Don’t let your Bloat Control You. This ‘ology’ comes straight from my personal experiences and heart. Look through my closet and you will see a peplum top in about every color and style imaginable. But why the obsession? As a gal with a lot of food sensitivities, peplums are my go to when it comes to ‘the bloat’. We all get it and it can really ruin a good mood, but don’t let it ruin your outfit! The bodice of the peplum is form fitting, but right after it hits the bottom of your ribcage/belly button area the peplum begins and just like magic… WHALAH!! Your bloat has disappeared. Don’t worry, it will just be our little secret 😉