Starting off the week with a different type of styling tip! Why not re-cycle or re-fashion something you love by somehow ‘crafting’ it? That’s exactly what I did with this little bustier!
First of all, it became too tight! But- I didn’t want to get rid of it- I find it was such a good layering piece. This is what it looked like before:
First I created a border for the length (needed more coverage and it was no longer good where it ended in my middle section). Then, I decided to open up one side (the other has a zipper so that’s too complicated). And I crocheted an extension! Then, in order to balance out the two sides, I crocheted two separate pieces and sewed them along the zipper sides. This created a more balanced illusion. By also stitching on a crochet border to the shoulder straps- my look became complete!
Et Voila!
Soaking up all them 70’s vibes…
My daughter says she’ll borrow it too (that’s always a good sign…or is it?). She, though, will wear it like a tank- nothing under- bless her cute little bod😊
If I have to be quite honest here- the crochet part was the easiest. I did have to use quite a bit of imagination to recreate and ‘make fit’ the idea I had in mind. But in the end, it all worked out!
You can watch my clip here:
If you’d like to see someone who is a real pro at this? Check out my goddaughter on Instagram: @CROCHETKAT27 She inspires me so much- hope I’m making her proud😊
As for my Styling Students; I’m challenging you this week with this! Remember our motto to Refashion and Rewear!
#Confessionoftheweek: Haven’t been confessing a great deal have I? Well, I’m back to say that as good as this may look…it wasn’t easy or quick at all. But I WILL attempt another such DIY for sure. I’m such a self-torturer!
July is finally here- and along with that comes Canada Day! Such a different one for me, (the cover photo was taken last year in Greece for Canada Day) as I’m living with my daughter to help her out- so no partying! But anyway, who can really party with Covid still lurking. But! How fun that on my daughter’s quaint street they had mini parades and neighborly cook outs! See the video clip below…
There’s a saying here in Montreal; We have two seasons: July and Winter. Not quite true- but close enough! It can take forever to get us into warm weather- but when it hits, it’s scorching. It doesn’t last though as our fall arrives quite fast. And our summers can be so temperamental! So how does a Montreal girl shop or plan her wardrobe to meet the fussy weather?
DON’TS
Avoid shoppingtoo early for summer wear. We are so eager to see sunshine that some of us begin shopping for summer as soon as the very tricky warm rays appear in early spring. But our weather is tricky! Hold back.
Over shopping (because of over-positivity) is another downfall. Again, hold back.
Avoid too trendy. We can get carried away when we find the perfect summer dress- and overspend. Consider how many wears you will get out of it?
Instagram and advertising is not always geared to your country’s weather. Some little summer dresses can be divine in Florida…but don’t quite work for long in Montreal. Same can be said for the colours and patterns in vogue from a tropical place to a northern climate.
Shopping while away on vacation (where it’s usually way hotter than back home), can be very tempting- but I don’t recommend it. Unless you are shopping for vacation only!
It’s best to give all these some serious consideration, if you don’t want tooverfill your closets with things that will just hang there…for you to maybe wear next summer (if you even get a chance). And remember that trends change!
DO’S
Transitional is wise. Invest in pieces that will carry you from fall to spring – and the occasional cool days of summer. One good trick is to opt for florals or patterns that go for all seasons.
The advantages of color. Keeping several light colored pieces, even if the fabric is a little heavier, will work for summer; as will lighter fabric clothing in darker colors work year round as well.
Layering is key! Invest in pieces that can be layered, or, that are the layering pieces.
Scarves! I can’t say enough about this incredible accessory! Easily turns into a mini top for summer, or a cover up for cooler temps.
Blazers: An absolute must for all seasons- yes, summer too! You can wear your halters no problem and be all set when the chilly wind pops in (coz it will!).
If you need change, and shop you must, then why not give thrifting or vintage shopping a try? This will be an all-around win-win situation for your pocket, your taste, and the environment.
This is not everything- but it’s a good start. We adore summer, but for us Northern girls, let’s be honest with ourselves…it really is our shortest season (so sad!!).
Here are a few looks that can work for more than just one season, while still being perfect for northern weather (like in Montreal or New York). We all know there are days like this- where the sun has turned its back to warm some other place!:
Wore this mid June. This mixed print outfit is in a very light cotton blend- but because the colours are darker, it also would work for fall (with booties!)
Here’s the same outfit worn with a jean jacket and a scarf. This pic was taken same day as above (mid June!! ) It was still cold! The straw bag brings in the element of summer- it helps make the outfit work. As you can see, this outfit can easily be transitional for fall. And what about the scarf? Like I mentioned, you can wear them on chillier days like I did with this look.
Light breezy fabric once again- in this case no matter that the skirt is sheer, it’s animal print and it works all year round (again picture this look with booties!) The little black vest also works all year-round. For this particular day I wore the bright yellow top with the vest to give it an accent. On very warm days I can wear this same look: Vest, no blouse. Perfect!
Now how can this look be transitional you ask? First of all the plaid shorts are of heavier material (wool blend – good for both summer and winter), and I’m wearing a leatherette jacket. The color white gives it its summer look. Yet if I were to recopy this look with thick tights and boots, it would be perfect for fall!
Like I said, blazers are always a good idea. See how this works for both summer and even all year round. Because they’re shorts, it still works that this is a thicker kind of material.
Again, using all-year-round material like leather, and long sleeves in a warm tone -even if in a light fabric, can be worn all year-round (think tights for fall and winter).
And so here you have it. Note: these outfits you probably saw me style before. And for good reason, they are timeless- fashionable always. My way of shopping my closet and re-inventing as I go along!
Don’t think of this as limiting! In fact think of this as creative, and money well-spent! Your wardrobe will get you through for longer periods of time while being good for your pocket as well as the environment. Stretching clothing use, wear and re-wear is where fashion is at right now. Do your part and look the part, smart and gorgeous.
Take care my lovely Fashion Divas xx
#Confessionoftheday: These tips are tried and tested- not only in my professional styling opinion…but I have been known to shop for the cutest summer dresses (and in different colours!) to never wear them more than once…sad, I know. But true.
If you enjoyed this topic and would like to learn more, please email me at: lucy_bertoldi.com or shoot me a DM on Insta!
And- for all you wonderful bloggers out there- please come link up your posts with me every Friday for my Fabulous Friday’s Link up Party (there’s still time this week too!
Have a great week!
Here’s where I link up:
I love this blogging community so much! (Click on the Links below to see where I go read, comment and link up every week!)
On June 24th we celebrate La St-Jean Baptiste (also known as La Fete Nationale), here in Quebec! We’re lucky to have back to back holidays with Canada day being next week on July 1st!
Usually what you can expect on a non-Covid year…
That usually means fireworks and cook outs, get together s and fun. This year, La St-Jean was very quiet for me- as you know, I’ve moved in with my daughter who’s had a baby; I’m on Nonna duty! And next week will be the same. (Can’t help but wonder how social distancing will work out though…)
As you may have noticed, I’m a little low on the Insta posting and with good reason: Family comes first. But I do want to tell all my blogger friends that it’s not that I don’t want to drop by and read (I do when I can!), there’s just no time. How is it that these little bundles of joys call all the shots, and rule?
Ok so little time! Let’s jump right into this!
Here’s my Favourite Fashion and Lifestyle Link Up Post of the Week!
Fabulous Friday and a Fabulous new week for me…Coz I became a Grandmother again! My second grandson arrived on Monday- and I couldn’t be more excited- I’m bursting with joy! There is a downside though…due to quarantine, I’m not allowed anywhere near them. My daughter and husband have to do it all on their own. Facetime is there for me to give some comfort…but it’s not the same. A new mom needs help! I can’t wait for this awful pandemic to leave us for good.
Sorry that you can’t see his face! Mommy is not yet ready for the reveal!
In the meantime I did cook up a storm for them…check out this clip!
And another thing that makes me extra happy is that I finally got my hair done!! Some streaks, a trim and a few extensions to freshen up the whole look. Feeling like a million bucks (and anyone who knows me knows…this is honestly the ONLY thing it really takes!). Check out my before and after:
Before…
After…
This week I didn’t exercise or walk…my bad! I have to honestly get into this ASAP! Meanwhile…Here’s my Fabulous Friday List!
Reflection is an ongoing process…but of not much use unless you push it forward with some action. I’m pushing myself to learn more and make a difference. It’s a work in progress. But I am hopeful. The key reminder is that we are ALL God’s children.
I’m so happy that this message gets passed along throughout our blogging community – it’s so important!! So I want to thank Shelbee of Shelbee on the Edge for featuring it as well!!
As for styling- well it’s been such a fun week of print mixing and color smashing (been keeping my Styling Students on their toes!!). You can read my post here.
Last Week’sLINK UP FAVOURITES:
I picked 4!! INSPIRATION, HISTORY, FASHION, and Most Clicked!
1- For an amazing heart-felt, inspirational and urgently needed read– head on over to Ashley’s Blog: Le Style Rouge
2-Do you know the history of Kimonos?? If you don’t you should head over to High Latitude Style and read Nicole’s post. It is so interesting!!
3- And for my favourite fashion look: Check out Shelbee on the Edge’s post here. Should she really say good-bye to this look…OMG- please keep this and REWEAR, darling, it’s just too good!!
And then… Ialso remembered that I never shared my Lip Plumping Trick with you my fabulous Divas!! How can I forget this. Honestly, it works like a charm (without injections…well at least so far!). Here’s the clip for this.
For anyone who loves fashion, nothing can be more delicious to the eye than viewing a runway filled with an array of colors, patterns and styles. We just love it! But when it comes to wearing anything that’s a bit out of our comfort zone- particularly mixed prints…well that’s another story!
I’m here to help out if I may- with a few tips on how to get started and how to make you more comfortable in this area if you want to dabble in this exciting form of expression.
You probably do love prints, patterns and colors- but you’re not sure if you could pull off the look. Sometimes it feels too daring and there’s also risk associated wit feeling “too out there”. Too often the risks- especially for us past the middle point (age-wise) are all of the ‘social’ kind.
Here’s the list of risks that too often stop us from expressing ourselves:
I’m tooold to wear something that outrageous.
Prints make me look older than my age…frumpish (age- related)
The colors are too loud for me (age related again)
I don’t suit patterns or too much color (they make me look fat; I’m too short; too tall; they make me look bulky; make my bones stand out…oh dear, just fill in your own blanks.)
I only suit black.
The list goes on.
News Flash: Yes, You’re here. Yes, You’re aging. Yes, You’re still alive. Your life is not over!! How old are you really in your heart and head? Life’s too short, start having fun (it’s only clothes…fashion comes and goes- style it up hun!)
Now- let’s get onto Print and pattern mixing!
READY?? I’ll give you the easiest and quickest way to SAFELY dabble into print mixing… Here it comes: Stay within the same Color Family. How easy is that??
3 Different patterns- SAME color family.
Beginner EXERCISE for you:
Go to your closet and pick the one print you absolutely love (top, pants, dress, scarf…)
With the garment in hand move along your racks to see if at least ONE of the colors in the garment can be found in another piece
Once you’ve found that piece, start matching it up!
I started by picking this amazing slip on skirt…which according to the norm could technically only be worn with black…Note how I picked another animal print to pair it with! The trick was to keep the base color (dusty rose) to tie up the look.
Intermediate Exercise for you:
Repeat the above exercise using different garments, OR, from those two pieces you previously put together, find one more item that has, either the dominant color -OR- a complimentary color (of the dominant one) and style it up! See color charts for examples- you can easily find this on the Internet😊
I started by picking a Bright red jacket that I love. Then I paired it with my tie-dye dress. Third, I added the dominant color Red within a different print and pattern scarf. Lastly, the polka dot and red, sandals were just the right notch for me to love this outfit!
Advanced Exercise for you:
Try it with 3 different garments or just add a third piece to the original mix you created previously- this one MUST be another print! This could mean that your accessory should also be a print! Then add an extra layer (jacket for example). Let this one also should have the dominant color or a bold complimentary!
This one actually has two different prints- however, because the top is sheer, it adds a third dimension. The belt is a too bright orange, so I fastened a scarf around it. I initially wanted to wear the scarf in a more traditional way around my neck…but I thought this was way better! What do you think?
Expert Exercise for you:
Try styling up more than 2 patterns and prints. Color does not matter at this point. In fact, you can have the same color but different patterns. A good example of this would be two different garments with two different patterns but both are black and white. From this add a third pattern that is of a completely different color for a splash of contrast.
Working with black an white (thought I’d keep it safe for you in terms of color!! BUT- I decided to style totally different patterns. To the mix I added the splash of color with the scarf worn as a top- and then another scarf as a belt. In total: 4 different patterns!
FINAL TIP: Who made up these rules anyway? Honestly- this is just a guideline. Sometimes items that are not even color, print or pattern related just go together so well!
THE MOST IMPORTANT THING OF ALL IS GREAT FIT!!
And there you have it! You’re on your way to print-mixing! Now, all you have to do is style it up!
Watch this clip for a detailed look on how I styled up my prints and patterns.
An now Here’s to my Favourite Fashion Diva of the Week:
How gorgeous is this Diva? Loving this slip dress so much- and the animal print is soooo good!
I love this blogging community and the interesting weekly blog posts. (Click on the Links below to see where I go read, comment and link up every week!)
It may be Fabulous Friday today- but it certainly was the most unfabulously worst week ever for 2020; proving that we still haven’t learned. This week I did not write my beginning of the week usual styling post.
As you know, my blog is about fashion and lifestyle and a way to uplift and inspire- yet I couldn’t get myself to post this week. I’ve been in reflection mode and bear lots of shame as well. This week, I chose to listen.
Silence and complacency are igniters to oppression- and I want no part of that. I’m against Oppression and Racism. So on this Friday, I’m here-hoping to contribute in some way…
So how can I possibly make a difference on my site? Gave this a lot of thought…and even if my little voice could probably go unheard, that’s still no reason for me to keep silent. I will start one step at a time to do my part- conscientiously.
I Have Faith in God
So here I am ready for my Fabulous Fridays post. Today my post will still be about fashion. Except it won’t be about my life or how I try to inspire through my creativity.
Today I’m featuring WOC that inspire me. These are women creators, whose content I love. Their creativity ignites me! And I want to give them a voice as they grace my platform. Here are women of substance that I follow- I previously posted these ladies on my Insta stories so that’s why the caption on the pics!! Note how fabulous they are- follow them too and enjoy their content.
This girl is a life guru that elevates women on a daily basis – Helping with content, inspiration, meditation, live honest talks…you name it: Sensational. Please check her out : @shika_chica
You want to check out this amazing fashionista! She will give you the best styling tips while brightening up your day! She is the pure definition of swag. She’s from Montreal and we’ve promised to finally meet after Covid to share our love for fashion! Am I lucky or what?! Check her out @ladysoswag
Ruth is the sweetest and oh so stylish in every way! She gives fabulous styling tips and is so encouraging always. Her whole attitude is pure love and kindness- and ultra chic! Check her out @styleaffair_ruth
Oh Miranda darling-my coolest fashionista who wears it like she means it. Bold and gorgeous fashion- Her clips always make my day as does her originality! You’re gonna love her! @bohemianrockstar15
Styling PERFECTION. This beauty is a fashion stylist and her blog posts are amazing always. Her live segments are fantastic as well. check out @lamoumous
So proud of this one’s superb artistic talents! She’s right here in Montreal and I can’t rave enough about her. Check out her site to see her creations! She made one for me which I adore!! @shinyart.ca
Gorgeous girl here is a social media marketing guru with a sunshine heart- also from Montreal! Always ready with tips and inspiration to motivate. After Covid I’m getting together with her!! @agencelifemedia
This 90’s soul MUA puts up these incredible make-up posts (which you all know that as a MUA myself- I can’t get enough of this stuff!) Her reviews are so interesting- love it! @style_by_jade
This beauty’s content is about style, travel and delicious food! She goes to marvelous fashion exhibitions and shows that just make my jaw drop. Love following her @maimiraj
Ok…can we just pause here for a moment to breathe…because she is absolutely breathtaking!! Her sense of fashion just blows me away- fashion creativity and beauty to the max! @fashion_ova_everything
Still very new on the scene, this gorgeousness is an up and coming young Youtuber – model, who posts about skin care and products – you know I love that! @skyekiharaofficial
This loveliness is all about lifestyle, family and inspiration- get your daily dose that will make you smile @forever_char and- her fashion inspiration page which is sooo good! @takeachicpeek
For health, fitness and lifestyle check out Bernice! I love her fashion sense (especially her Ghanaian outfits!!) And I love it when she posts alongside her daugher- please go watch this IGTV!! Love it! @the50something
Are you crazy about colorful fashion like I am? Then Karen Denise’s account you must follow! Rainbow of delicious fashion and style is what you will find @mittenstyled
Empowering women is what this gorgeous woman of substance is all about. Inspiring us is what it’s all about. Plus, I adore her effortless oh so chic ‘s style!@simpleeebeau.t
Boss Lady with flair! Beauty, lifestyle, fashion…her site is all about that journey. Just looking at her page will get you hyped for success @zie.j_
Another Beauty guru after my heart! Her feed shows you extensive arrays of gorgeous makeup collections- drooling time. Love the way she puts it altogether- so creative and incites me all the time. @lamide_johnson
Who is this glamour beauty? Just look at her! You gotta find out for yourself. Fashion inspiration and lifestyle at its best- go check her out:@aboutchristellestyle
And there you have it! These ladies complete my Favourites of the week all in one!
I just love Fridays- and even more so when I’ve had a beautiful week. With the good weather finally showing up, I had so much fun styling up some looks. Here are some pics…
As well, here’s a clip if you’d like to see me strut these ootd’s!
The true highlight of my week though was our 34th Wedding Anniversary! Yes, we’ve been married that long (he must for sure be doing more than just one thing right loll!)
Anniversary flowers from my children!
This guy though…Made up my mind a long time ago that he’s a keeper!!
Something else made my days so good this week. I got featured on several blogs I love! First one by Gail: Is This Mutton!!
And the lovely Emma from Style- Splash blog also featured me among these beauties…
A great big THANK YOU!!!
And you just know I’m not gonna let you off without showing you what I cooked…right? Of course not- so here’s a clip of my Anniversary Moussaka and a shrimp dish I whipped up one evening on the fly!
Shrimp Delish!
Moussaka- Hubby’s favouorite!
Here’s the clip for these two recipes:
ANOTHER NEW THING HERE ON FRIDAYS…
I’m choosing my FAVOURITE Post from last week’s LINK PARTY!!! So here it is…
If you would like to be featured here on Fridays- Please join my link party by linking up your posts- I’ll choose my favourite post from the party and feature it the following week!
The Little Summer Dress is for real the easiest Outfit Of The Summer! It also gets A+ for its 3 ‘F’s : Fresh, Free, Fun!
So- start wearing your cute dresses! There’s nothing easier than a simple LSD. When you get your hands on one- don’t let go! You’ll be wearing it summer after summer trust me! If you’re more of a pants girl and think dresses don’t suit you…think again!
Summer heat cries out for flair and a non-conforming fit when it comes to dresses- so how can it not suit you? LSD’s were born to camouflage and set you free! And the plus side? You have to do nothing else than wear it- no layering- no matching, no coordinating, no additions necessary.
This little green striped number needs absolutely no help! I mean, you can obviously change it up with accessories and different sandals and there you go- different looks! That’s why you just can never get rid such gems- ever!
The only thing you need to think of in terms of styling is whether you want to dress it up for day or evening. You do know that you can dress these little darlings up for both, right? Coz you can! Go from laundry room, out to lunch with the girls, to the grocery store and back for supper preps and a nightcap on the porch or off for a nightly walk- without ever having to change!
Slip on and slip out!
Let’s look at a few others that don’t disappoint. I’ve worn these for a few summers already and will keep on doing so😊
Twinning with my daughter here:)
Also…the LSD seems to always be part of the most fun and memorable times- this was taken in Greece last year!
#Confessionoftheday:Come to think of it…Yes- I am completely addicted to the LSD! Super freeing, fresh and fun!
And now drum roll…This Week’s Favourite Fashion Styling Diva on Instagram is:
Her feed and posts will blow you away- such great style always to inspire!
If you would like a chance to be featured, make sure to follow me on Instagram – if I fall in love with your style, I’ll feature you for sure!
And now time to spread some blog love! I love reading other great blog posts- so I thought to include some really good ones for you to check out! They have linkup parties where you can link your own posts. Go check them out and show some love. Have a good one!
