There’s some trends that go in and out and others that stand the test of time. I love that a lot of the brands I buy from are making clothes that are color blocked. Here’s the general definition of it: “Color blocking is a current fashion trend that combines/features contrasting colors on a garment in bold blocks. Using color theory, when color blocking, you can combine complimentary colors in a garment that normally would have been worn with basic black or a neutral.”
This easy style is as simple as strategically wearing contrasting, but still complementary, bold and bright colors together in an outfit.The easy way to see this is by this graphic.
You make a triangle on the color wheel and choose two of the three colors that the corners touch. These colors supposedly harmonize well.
For years, I’d just wear black and white. Through color blocking, I’m discovering my love for colors. The clothes look fresh, modern and fashion forward. More than just buying one piece off the rack, like a dress or a sweater, I love how a lot of women are embracing this trend by wearing their own purposefully arranged outfits. It take a lot of creativity and courage!
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. I’m a size 10. (Cue sad music.) Back before I had kids, I was a comfortable size 6 but after my pregnancies, I just can’t lose the weight. For the last few years I was in denial, not buying any new clothes, just hoping that one day I could return to my smaller size. But I only ended up wearing black leggings, maternity dresses and maternity jeans. Every day, I would sadly look at my closet, full of size 6 clothing, and just sigh.
Then, I realized that you can be stylish at any size. When you wear clothes that actually fit, you feel confidant and stylish. That’s why you saw my last post yesterday about sweaters. I was looking for some large-size sweaters that I could add to my wardrobe. (I only own one!)
Today, I rounded up six dresses from one of my favorite retailers, Boden. They’re a British company known for their high quality clothes. I usually buy just the boys’ clothes from their website, but today, I decided to check out their women’s section. Low and behold I found some great dresses for relatively cheap! They’re having a massive sale right now so it’s the perfect time to check them out.
I’m a little “hippy”, I’ve always struggled with my large thighs. Now I have a pudgy stomach to boot so A-line dresses or ones that flare are right for my body type. If you’re like me, you may want to check these out.
Now that we’re well into winter, it’s time to find some clothes that will keep us warm. I recently came to the realization that I don’t own a lot of sweaters so I decided to go on a search for some cute/classy/stylish ones on the web. There were so many good ones out there, my list of 10 grew to 19! (Some I actually bought.) Hope you enjoy this list.
Maje Matias Studded Turtleneck Sweater
This turtleneck really caught my eye. I like how the studs are only on the neck. Looks futuristic. Bloomingdale’s $308
REISS Emilie Lace-Inset Sweater
Though I’m not a fan of lace, I love how it’s incorporated into the top of this sweater. It adds a nice, charming touch. Bloomingdales $130
Zoe Jordan Locke Cutout Sleeve Sweater
This cutout sweater is a little bit rock n roll. It’s very modern yet edgy. Bloomingdale’s $465
AQUA Cashmere Dip Dye Fringe Trim Cashmere Sweater
Not only is this cashmere, it’s ombre! The gray blue combo is just gorgeous. Bloomingdale’s $118.80
Knotted Confetti Pullover
I love this fun sweater! I think I just bought the last one in large. Anthropologie $148
Embellished Cold Shoulder Knitted Jumper
Recently, I’ve gotten into the whole “cold shoulder” trend. When I spotted this on TopShop, I knew I wanted it. Unfortunately, It’s sold out on my size (and every size except a two). TopShop $90
AQUA Cashmere Cold Shoulder Cashmere Sweater
This sweater looks like it would be great dressed up or down. It’s part of the cold shoulder trend but it doesn’t like trendy at all. Bloomingdale’s $112.80
Contrast V-Choker Knit By Boutique
Chokers are all the rage these days so why not have one built in with a sweater? Like the colors combo of this. TopShop $115
Wildfox Women’s Sparkle Heart Baggy Beach Pullover
Based and the reviews, you and I have now been warned. The red glitter from the heart comes off. Despite this fact, I still love it. Amazon $98
Navy Pom Pom Knit Sweater
This sweater is the perfect mix of cute and cool. It’s a blue knit sweater with white pom poms on the front. European Republic $73
Gucci Striped Wool Sweater
I love the classic look of this sweater. It’s truly timeless. Now only if it wasn’t so gosh darn expensive! Net-a-Porter $750
Michael Kors ribbed stretch-knit sweater
This sweater is made from ribbed stretch-knit and defined by fluted bell sleeves. Net-a-Porter $125
Derek Lam: Cross-Front Cotton Pullover Sweater
It’s rare when you come across a sweater that’s unique looking. I like how this black and white beauty overlaps in the front. Neiman Marcus $395
C by Bloomingdale’s Cashmere Nautical Sweater
This sweater will always be timeless. I love the nautical look. This one doesn’t go over the top. Bloomingdale’s $106.80
Studded Hi-Lo Sweater
Doesn’t this pretty sweater remind you of constellations? Right now, this one’s a great deal. I like it in black. Express $29.95
Joie Marianna Lace Back Sweater
In the front you wouldn’t even guess what was in the back. A peekaboo lace material decorates this classy sweater. Bloomingdale’s $258
C by Bloomingdale’s Embellished Neck Cashmere Sweater
What’s not to love about this sweater? I love the built-in jewelry and how this is cashmere. Bloomingdale’s $148.80
Burberry Bilboa Metallic Heart Merino Wool Sweater
I love hearts on sweaters. This one is close to perfection. Like the red hearts on the gray sweater. It’s a pretty contrast. Neiman Marcus $380
I’m usually too shy to put up pictures of myself but after I made this DIY wreath, I had to, personally, hold it up in pride. Just looking at it, you’d never know how easy this is to make! All you need is a pool noodle, duct tape, ornaments (large and small), ribbon (or string) and a hot glue gun (with lots of sticks of glue).
I didn’t take any in process shots, I thought I’d just direct you to a few different websites that give you step by step instructions. One is by Sweet Pickins and the other is by Grosgrain.
Some tips:
1. Once you’ve made your pool noodle circle, make sure it looks like a circle and not an oval.
2. Attach your string to the pool noodle after it’s a circle but before you put on the ornaments. (Or you can tie a ribbon on in the end.)
3. Glue the ornaments first on the outside of the circle, then on the inside, and finally in the middle. The key is to layer the ornaments so that they cover up the noodle.
4. This one’s important! Use only shatterproof ornaments. I had two glass ones shatter on me and it was not fun cleaning those up! Once you’re done, they also might fall from your wreath.
That’s it! I kept mine silver and red because that’s the color scheme of my Christmas mantel display.
My sister jokes that it looks like something you’d see at Nordstrom. I take that as a compliment!
I was looking over Houzz’s 10 Most Popular Bathroom Photos of 2016 when I came across this stunning shower head. Made by Bossini, the LED lights turn a boring shower into a stunning experience. This light show “trend” helped make this the second highest bathroom photo saved in 2016. It’s easy to see why.
When Sam and I went on our honeymoon to Tahiti, we experienced something similar at the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa. The shower not only had these LED lights, you could also choose a scent to go with your shower! Who know taking a shower could be such an experience.
Lately, I’ve been on this jewelry kick. There’s so many good deals out there right now, I just can’t resist! Today, I wanted to share with you some of the items I’ve recently bought either for myself or for my sisters and friends. Right now, Banana Republic is having a 40% off sale and Madewell is having a 20% off one. It’s just the right time to scoop up some presents!
Metal Spike Necklace
With my new galaxy hair, I decided that I want to go a little more “edgy.” This necklace is the perfect mix of tough and pretty. Banana Republic $48
Northern Lights Necklace
Almost fitting like a choker, this necklace is just dazzling. The only problem is that it doesn’t lay quite flat, it turns to the gold size some but it’s definitely still a stunner. Banana Republic $48
Nocturnal Choker Necklace
I like how this necklace is a cross between a choker and a regular necklace. The draping is so pretty but also a little “edgy.” Madewell $38
Birthstone Necklace
Love jewelry that has meaning. These birthstone necklaces are perfect to give to your sisters. I bought three of these, one for each of us. I like how each necklace has three stones that lay above the chain. Different. Anthropologie $38
Mara Earring Set
If you prefer dainty earrings, or studs, this set is for you. Because you get seven pairs, each set only comes out to about $8. I’m a sucker for anything celestial so I love the stars and moon. Anthropologie $58
Montana Moon Ring
As I mentioned, I’m a sucker for anything dealing stars and the moon. This pretty ring has 14k gold plating and is decorated with cubic zirconia. Anthropologie $38
Ataula Choker
It’s hard to find choker’s that don’t look too sexy, that you can wear any time of the day. This brass one, decorated with Swarovski crystals, seems like one you can wear all the time. Anthropologie $54.95
Laurel Leaf Bobby Pin
This is a little more of a hair accessory than actual jewelry, but I just had to share it. Doesn’t this look elegant and beautiful? Etsy $17.44
Mini Small Square Stud Earrings
Sparkling glitter flurries are frozen in the polished epoxy jewels of stud earrings that beautifully frame the face. Nordstroms (for Kate Spade) $32
Cradle Jewelry
You’ll have to stack three bracelets to achieve this look but it’s all worth it. Love the geometric shapes. Adorn Milk $70 each
Yesterday, I shared with you some of gifts you could give ladies this Christmas. Now, I thought I’d turn my attention to the men in your life. Here’s a list of items that I think would make the perfect gift for your brothers or boyfriends (and husbands, of course).
Above: Mod Tablet 3
For the jetsetter man in your life that likes to keep things organized, look to the Mod Tablet 3. The magnetic modular case was built to solve the needs of creative professionals. It has 10 pockets for a tablet, phone, cards, and currency and 5 slots for cords, pens, pencils, notebook, and in-ear headphones. If that’s not enough, it’s outside is a Tuscan veg-tanned leather. This is Ground $349
Men’s Leather Bomber Jacket
A leather jacket doesn’t have to break the bank. This one, by DSTLD, is classic and streamlined. Made from buttery soft broken-in leather, the jacket is designed to feel like a longtime favorite from day one, and only improves with time and wear. DSTLD $320
Mens’s Classic Full Zip Hoodie
It’s the hoodie that launched American Giant to fame. Soft and comfortable, your boyfriend will never want to take it off. American Giant $89
Slim Classic Zip-pocket Sweatpant
Sweatpants don’t have to look slouchy. These pants, from J.Crew, feature a tapered leg that creates a slim, tailored silhouette. Good for going out or staying in. J. Crew $69.50
Everyday Backpack
If you’re looking for the ultimate backpack to haul all of your gear look no further. The Everyday Backpack by Peak Design was created by a team of designers, engineers, and photographers to meet the needs of creative and adventurous people. It can hold an unbelievable amount of stuff including your camera gear or laptop. (I have the Everyday Tote and I love it.) Peak Design $259.95
The Classic, Gunmetal or Tan
If your man is a minimalist, he’ll appreciate the classic design of this watch. Inspired by the clean lines of the Oslo Opera House, this watch has a two-layer dial and a subtle domed glass. It’s an elegant, high-quality watch with premium components, including a Swiss movement and Italian leather straps. Linjer $249
Leatherman 830039 Wave Multitool with Leather/Nylon Combination Sheath, Silver
Every person should have this multitool on hand in case of emergencies. It includes a whopping 17 tools: Needlenose Pliers, Regular Pliers, Wire Cutters, Hard-Wire Cutters, Clip-Point Knife, Serrated Knife, Saw, Scissors, Wood/Metal File, Diamond-Coated File, Large Bit Driver, Small Bit Driver, Large Screwdriver, Ruler (8 inch/19 cm), Bottle/Can Opener, Wire Stripper & Lanyard Attachment. It’s even covered by a 25-year warranty. Amazon $89.95
Skybuds
Skybuds are truly wireless earbuds that charge and store in the Skydock. I love the classic and clean look of these. Alpha $249.99
The Carry-On
Luggage shouldn’t be heavy or bulky. That’s why the Carry-On would be your perfect travel companion. It’s unbreakable, thoughtfully designed, and guaranteed for life. Inside there are two compartments, one designed for clothes, the other for shoes, toiletries, and other hard objects. Outside is an impenetrable shell that bends under pressure and never breaks. Bonus: It’ll even charge your phone or tablet! Away $225
Mahabis Classic Slippers
Are these slippers or shoes? The answer is both. A modern reinvention of the house slipper, Mahabis Classic Slippers is a sleek, award winning slipper that transforms into a quasi-shoe with the detachable TPU sole, letting you transition from indoor to outdoor wear in seconds. Made in Europe, they come in two shades of gray with a choice of sole colors. Mahabis $101
The Down Pilot’s Vest
Looking for a warm vest? This one is made with a rugged plain-weave polyester shell that’s tear and water-resistant, and it has a 600-fill down inside. Warm and lightweight it’s perfect for those chilly nights. Best Made Company $198
Bookends of the Earth: Rivers
Created by artist and designer Garth Borovicka, this bookend set is constructed with solid wood, the grains and layers of the wood mimic the layers of earth’s underbelly. Realistic model trees, poured resin “water,” and hand-tooled topography create a charming scene. Colossal Shop $220
I’ve said it once but I’ll say it again. I love my sisters! Aside from Sam, my husband, Grace and Carol are my best friends. We see each other almost every weekend and we never have enough time to just sit and chat. I so appreciate having them in my life. Today, I thought I’d put together a gift guide for sisters or girlfriends. These some items I’ve already bought, some I’ve already given away and some that I hope to give away in the near future.
Above: Cloud No. 1
Max Wanger is more known for his beach prints but his new collections of clouds in equally as beautiful. Love the modern simplicity. Max Wanger Print Shop $35
Daily Weekly Monthly Planner in Gradient
I just bought this for myself. It’s a good size planner that has sections for the month, day and week. You don’t have to wait to start using it, you can start at any time by just writing it in yourself. (Love the outside colors of this planner. Makes my day just a little bit brighter.) Poketo $34
Floral Initial, Watercolor Jewelry Dish
If you’re like me, you have all of your jewelry scattered about or lost in some drawer. I’m a big fan of watercolor so I immediately fell in love with this jewelry dish. It’s pretty, simple and modern. The Painted Press $16
Capture Your Style: Transform Your Instagram Images, Showcase Your Life, and Build the Ultimate Platform If you’re into Instagram, and especially if you love fashion, you’ll appreciate this new book by Amiee Song. With 4.1 million followers, she’s one of those must-follows on Instagram. Not sure how she makes everything look so effortless but each photo is just breathtaking. The book gives you some inside scoops on how to capture picture perfect Instagram photos. (Hint: She uses the FaceTune app.) Amazon $12.16
Fox Ring, Adjustable
I’m a sucker for animal jewelry and this one made me stop and stare for a while. I love how in the front it’s the fox’s head and at the end it’s his tail. Love clever stuff like this. Girls Luv It $28
Walt of the Winds! Made of light blue and white resin with a base consisting of sapele wood, this ring is enchanting. It’s like having a mini story on your finger. All the rings are handmade and each is unique and different from one another. Secret Wood $145
Amazon Echo
My sister, Carol, has this at her house and it is amazing. She just has to say, “Alexa play Adele” and the device starts playing Adele’s songs. This has way better voice recognition than Siri. Thinking about buying this for our house. (Though also considering Google Home.) Amazon $179.99
Northern Lights Line Bracelet
Love the change of colors in this bracelet. I think it’s versatile enough to wear every day. Banana Republic $28
GO ASK Your DAD – If You Can Read This Socks
I recently bought these socks for my sisters but this one I found today is even funnier. For all you moms out there, I know you can relate! If the Sock Fitz $13.17
Cocktail Party Earring Set
This dainty set of seven earrings is the perfect gift for anyone appreciates pretty and classic design. My sister, Grace, recently bought me this and I’m wearing one of the pairs as I’m typing this. Love the gold leaves one the most. Anthropologie $58
Laura Mercier Master Class Colour Essentials Collection 2nd Edition
Any woman who loves wearing make-up will appreciate this new collection by Laura Mercier. It comes with 12 eye colors, three cheek colors, two tightline cake eyeliners, a long-wearing cream eye pencil, and two travel eye brushes. It’s like all your neccessities in one, neatly packaged place. Sephora $125
Remember that recent post about bold, multi-colored hair? Well, tomorrow I’m doing it! I’ve decided to get my hair dyed in this galaxy-style. (This picture’s hair was done by Sarah Ready.) Because they have to lighten my hair first, the whole process will take four to five hours. I’m just going to take the day off tomorrow to get it done. Hopefully it all comes out well and I’ll have pictures to show you the next day. Wish me luck!
Thanks to some inspiration from Pinterest, I’ve decided to drastically change up my hair. When I first saw the galaxy-style hair trend late last year, I knew it was something I’d love to try. My sister told me I should check out Guy Tang, he’s a West Hollywood-based hair stylist that’s so popular he doesn’t take on any new clients. Here are some examples of his work.
Hello, I’m Alice Yoo! I’m founder and CEO of Skylar Yoo, a company dedicated to inspiring and empowering women to be bold. We sell apparel, art prints and accessories to the modern feminist.
In my former life, I was editor-in-chief of the art and culture blog My Modern Met, which I founded back in 2007. I curated and wrote about art, design and photography for more than seven years. (In fact, I published over 7,000 articles which were seen by millions of people worldwide.) I’m also co-author of a book called For Love: 25 Heartwarming Celebrations of Humanity, which is on Amazon and wherever books are sold.
I live in southern California along with my husband and my two toddler boys.
This blog is about what I love, the tough experiences that I’ve learned from, and my journey as a second time entrepreneur. Right now, I’m in the midst of a 365 day challenge, to read one book a day. If you share my passions or want to learn some cool new facts, come along for the ride. I hope to inspire, educate and entertain you!
