 14 weeks post pardon My Muffin Top - A Journey of Self Acceptance Here is a photo of my postpartum body (14 weeks). Lucky for you I am not brave enough to share a more revealing photo ;) Ha! I do want to be vulnerable about this topic. I love helping women learn to love and appreciate their bodies, it is my passion for very personal reasons. So exposing myself in this way is touchy for me.
I have spent a lot of time internally exhausting myself over where I thought I would (should) be physically after having my wonderful son. After verbalizing my internal physical expectations out loud, I realized how irrational my thoughts are. Why did I think I should be back in pre-pregnancy clothes almost right away? Why do I think there is something "wrong" with me because I'm not? Why do I feel so ashamed of a body that has carried, bravely given birth, and nourished 2 beautiful babies?
I have obsessed over eating, exercising, and what clothes I can find that will cover me up and make me feel "better". Thinking that if I did all of these things exactly right, I would find relief.
The problem is, I have barely (if ever) loved or appreciated my body. Not even at my most "fit" or smallest weight. The even bigger problem is I have rarely accepted myself as I am. There is something terribly wrong and unhealthy with my expectations. I can't help to think there is a connection between loving and accepting myself fully and finding a peace with who I am at the core. Sure, I can hide my insecurities better when I am not sleep deprived, larger than "normal", and experiencing crazy hormones, but they are still there...lingering and accusing.
There is something I feel the need to clarify. Some of you may be thinking, "Poor little Krystle, she is bigger than she was, I really feel sorry for her, boo-boo (loads of sarcasm)." What I want to get across is that I don't think that size is the real issue, anyone can carry self hatred and have a distorted view of themselves.
So ladies, it is time to get real and let it ALL hang out!!! I realize it is my job to un-do the years of slander I allowed myself to endure. I am taking steps everyday to change my internal thought life and dialog. Being intentional to slow down and capture my thoughts. WOW, has it been eye opening. So now, when I say to myself "If I would just work out harder and eat less, I wouldn't hate to look in the mirror so much." I try to combat it with "It's good to move my body and eat nourishing food. My body has been so good to me, so I will be gentle and respectful to my body." At first the amount of negative thoughts crowd out the good. Now, I have good days and bad days, but the good days are growing! Here is what I try to practice:
- Capture my negative thought(s)
- Replace with a positive thought
- Being thankful for my body, mind, and spirit (all the things that make up who I am)
- Not looking to main stream media as my physical guide (this is a biggie for me)
On that note, I wanted to share a video with you that really touched me. It is called "A Beautiful Body" Book Project by Jade Beall. She is representing 90% of women that are not portrayed in main stream media. So wait, WE are the norm?! Why have I been fed all my life that I was abnormal?
In her first volume, she photographs all mothers. Please watch and soak it up for our sisters, mothers, daughters, freinds and yourself.
I hope you take this journey of self acceptance with me. It takes a lot of effort to change a cultural norm in our hearts and minds, but I believe we can. Someday, this may be viewed as the norm. What a beautiful day that will be...
Love,
Krystle
P.S. What are you going to practice to keep your thoughts about yourself positive and loving? Please share! XOXO
P.S.S. A special thank you to my friend Amanda for sharing this video with me and to all of my dear friends that have been so encouraging in my process. You know who you are ;)
 You Asked for it, Here it is: 5 Tips for Looking Put Together This Spring and Summer ;) I received a GREAT message from a client asking how to dress things up with warmer weather approaching. Here are her question(s):
"Hey Mama!
Are you going to give us tips for this spring>>>>going into summer? I was shopping yesterday for some new nice weather clothes and I am not sure how to dress it up? I found some great layering tops(with ruffles and buttons in the front, and a spring military coat to layer over, but that is it). I am good with cooler/winter weather and using scarves and belts for layering...but when it gets hotter-then what?! Pretty soon it will be 90 out and I will not be able to layer as much as I do now.
I still want to look nice and put together! Help!" ~Krystal F. I was really excited to reply to her email and thought you all might want to know these tips too! So let's do this and feel uber confident in our spring/summer wardrobes ;) Tip 1) Structure is EVERYTHING!!! If we are layering less and ultimately wearing less clothing, we want to feel good in baring our bodies a bit more than we had in colder weather. Don't scream and run away at the thought (most of us put on 5-10 lbs. during the winter months, and that's okay!), just hear me out. When you wear clothes that give you good structure, meaning they help dictate and accentuate your shape, your eyes are drawn to all the right places. This means being VERY particular on what you add to your spring/summer closet. Think of items that have a built in waist and an open neckline. Find higher quality fabrics like cotton instead of flimsy fabrics like jersey. Below are some items that have structure and will look nice on their own.
Motown Frilly Top This top has a nice built in waistline and an open neckline. It can definitely stand alone without help from a belt or other layering items.
| Happiness Abounds Skirt Again, a great structured piece that will give you a nice shape with any top or blouse tucked into it. | Collage On Me Blouse This blouse is a nice sheer fabric that will let you feel the breeze on hot days. It gives good shape to the body because it ties in the back. Tip 2) Quality VS. Quantity
This goes hand and hand with the first tip. Items that have good structure and fit the body well tend to be good quality and a little more cash. TRUST me, it's worth it. Buy fewer high quality items and spice them up with less expensive accessories (I'll talk more about this later). Below are a few quality staple pieces I would highly recommend... White Boy Shirt White is PERFECT to wear when trying to stay cool. A white button down is a MUST have item all year round for layering, but a good quality one will give your body great structure all by itself ;) | Cafe Capri These are a classic crop pant and will be in style for a LONG time. Pick solid colors if you want them to stay in your closet awhile ;) They should have a crease down the front! | No. 2 Pencil Skirt The color really doesn't matter, just have at least one high quality pencil skirt in you closet at all times! Great with flats or heels, button down or tank, blazer or cardigan. Tip 3) Dresses are FABULOUS!
Finding the right dress for your body is one of the most flattering items you'll ever own...PERIOD. So, we might as well utilize them in warm weather! Here are a few suggestions with body types in mind ;)
| | Glamour Power to You A sweet V-neck fit and flare dress. Flattering on most body types, particularly pear, apple, and inverted triangle. | Magaschoni White Shirtdress Shirtdresses feel casual while looking put together. A dress like this would be flattering on all body shapes. | Hattie Ombre Maxi Dress It wouldn't be summer without a maxi dress! This one is particularly flattering with the shirred detail over the tummy. If you have more of a bust or broader shoulders, I would recommend finding a maxi with 1-2 inch straps, not spaghetti straps. You could easily tie up a button down shirt over this for a little extra flavor ;) | Dresses can be dressed up or down easily by changing flats to heels or a blazer to a cardigan. Jewelry and handbags can also change the look up quite a bit. Tip 4) Accessorize... A LOT!!!
Want the outfit you wore today to look completely different tomorrow?! Change your shoes, jewelry, and handbag. I promise, it WILL be a whole new outfit.
| Dress it down with:
Flats or sandals
Simple jewelry
Satchel or handbag On The Mark Necklace This would be perfect to wear with a tee or layering with other delicate chains.
| Dress it up with:
Heels or wedges
Chucky or sparkly jewelry
A clutch purse
Call It Debut Heel This is a GREAT shoe if wearing heels typically hurt your feet. It would look great with shorts, crop pants, skirts, and dresses! Juniper Statement Necklace Okay...you can stop drooling all over your keyboard. I know how you feel, nothing but LoVe for this little number ;) It would even dress up a simple tee. Five Speed Clutch This beautiful oversized clutch stands alone. It will pop off all your neutral items and plays well with other colors. I really like that is has a shoulder strap too. | Tip 5) You can still layer! Blazers, cardigans, and belts are still very essential to summer dressing. I am assuming, most of us either work or live in the air conditioning. It's nice to have a little something to throw on if you get chilly, like a floral print blazer, or a canary yellow cardigan. Also, BELT just as much as you did before! A lot of tanks and sleeveless dresses look great with a belt at the waist ;) **Bonus Top Tip** Just a reminder, the most flattering sleeveless tops, tanks, or dresses have a thicker strap. Look for something around 2 inches thick, perfect as well for discreetly wearing a well supportive bra. Avoid spaghetti straps unless you have small a bust line and shoulders. Short sleeve blouses and tees should have a "full sleeve". Cap sleeves broaden shoulders.
This post was FULL of info! See what happens when you ask questions?! That totally inspired me, THANK YOU for your questions Krystal F!!!
I hope everyone feels more equipped for summer shopping and dressing. Now get out there and have some fun! Thank you so much for reading.
Love,
Krystle
P.S. Do you have any summer fashion questions you would like answered?! XOXO
 My Sweet Baby Boy Lachlan DavidIt has been an incredible couple of weeks that I wanted to share with you all!The Saturday before Lachlan was born, I had a few close friends host a "blessing way" for me. A blessing way is a get together to celebrate, encourage, and bless the mother getting ready to give birth. I felt so encouraged and loved after everyone's kind words and wishes for me and the new baby we were about to receive, I felt mentally and physically at peace. Some of you may not know this, but when I was 32 weeks pregnant, I thought it was a good idea to ask my husband, who is a complete "planner" by nature, if he would consider a home birth. The poor guy almost ran off the road and was quite frankly terrified at the thought. Our daughter was born in the hospital with the help of the UW Health midwives and he was perfectly content knowing we were doing the same thing this time, having an idea of what to expect.Because my hubby loves me, and he knows I am the only one that can bring this babe into the world, he was willing to look at the research I had done that prompted me to be interested in a home birth. Knowing I wanted another natural birth, I was also interested in a more serene, quick, intervention free labor and a home birth seemed to be that answer I was looking for. Eventually we decided to move forward with that decision and connected with the Madison Birth Center. I was THRILLED that they could accept me as a patient in my third trimester and we immediately got everything together to prepare to have our baby at home. Whoa...To speed the story up to our babe making his arrival (by the way, we still weren't sure if we were having a boy or a girl) the morning of Thursday the 28th of February I woke up to a "pop!" at 6:45am. So grateful to get a full night's sleep, my water broke and it was go time. Contractions started at 7:45am and came consistently and gained strength as to be expected. Joe's mom came to take our almost 3 year old daughter Charlee to stay with her. That's when things started to really pick up for me. Our dear friend Tracie arrived around 9:30am, she was there to provide gentle support and help as needed. At 10:30am, our Midwife Mary and her birth assistant Nicole arrived. They checked the baby with a doppler periodically and everything sounded great. From there on for me everything is a blur and Lachlan David Marks was born gently and quickly at 12:19pm. It was everything I had hoped for and more. Intense for sure, but still peaceful, and I was happy to be in my own home staring at my beautiful son. He weighed in at 6lb 8oz, 19.5 inches long.Because of my amazing husband, friends, and family, I was able to rest in bed for a week, just focusing on bonding and taking care of Lachlan. I cannot tell you how AMAZING that experience was, physically and emotionally. Fortunately for me, my body needed little healing time because his delivery was so gentle, but I could tell it allowed my body to adjust to baby being out.Charlee loves her baby brother and is constantly patting him on the head or giving him kisses. Because she can't quite say her L's, she calls him "Wock-win" and it makes my heart melt every time.Thank you for letting me share such a beautiful and recent milestone with you. I am so in love with our new little man and am looking forward to this next year. I will be slowly getting back into blogging and taking client appointments in May. In the mean time, I will have a few guest bloggers and random fashion advice on the Love, Krystle facebook page. I hope you all take care, hold your families close and enjoy the Spring weather that is about to come!Love,KrystleP.S. We had some AMAZINGLY adorable photos taken of Lachlan by the talented Laura Houlihan of Laurels and Stars Photography. Feel free to check them out below ;) XOXO
 Image found in the Spring 2013 J Crew Catalog 2013 Spring Buying Guide -
Your Must have Items for Spring
Spring is fast approaching! I thought I would get you guys ready with items that would be helpful to add to your existing Spring/Summer wardrobes.
As most of you know, I am due VERY soon with my second babe. Please be patient with me over the next couple of months as blogging may be sparse as I adjust to this big life change ;)
Of course, I couldn't leave you hanging on one of the most fun seasons to dress!!! I LOVE Spring for so many reasons, but dressing for it is definitively on the top of my list ;) Shocker, I know...
Let's get started right away!
The Gladiator Sandal
Still alive and very much thriving for this spring season is the Gladiator Sandal. It has been slightly modified, but if you have some in your closet from the last season or two, I'm sure they are just fine ;) If you are concerned with your legs looking too short, look for a pair that is open or slopes at the ankle instead of one that cuts directly across the ankle. We are moving away from the T strap version, trading it in for horizontal straps. I have seen a lot in bright colors, which is SO fun! These should be your "go to" sandal and are easily worn with shorts, skirts, dresses, and rolled skinny jeans. Check these out...
Patterned Shorts or Patterned Cropped Pants
You will THANK me a million times over for these purchases! We often think of patterns for our top half, but equally as fun are patterned bottoms for Spring.
Patterned Shorts:
Find shorts that are a comfortable length for you. If you don't mind bearing your legs, try a 2-4" inseam. If you feel a little too exposed, try a crop pant. To ease yourself into patterned bottoms, pair shorts with a solid tee, blouse, cardigan, or jacket. The combinations are limitless and YES, please do pattern on pattern! Depending on your comfort level and styling taste, try a slight patterned tank or blouse on top with a solid cardigan. Don't be afraid to try new color combinations and patterns!
Patterned Crop Pants:
These are like the old school Audrey Hepburn crops. You can find them in ANY price range with many different and interesting patterns and colors. They will be a staple in your work or weekend wear!
Vintage Inspired Jewelry
Fun and interesting jewelry is an easy way to spice up tops from the last years Spring/Summer season. Make it colorful, chunky, and uniquely you ;)
Flouncy Skirts
Ever since I saw this visual in my Lucky Magazine I have been obsessed with a full skirt. They are SO perfect with your riding boots, but will be just as perfect with flats or little kitten heels.
What a way to get ready for Spring! All of these pieces will spice things up in your closet AND you can easily add them to your existing items. I am very excited to be out of maternity and into some fun, colorful items when the weather turns warmer! I hope you are looking forward to Spring dressing as much as I am ;) Thank you as always for your support in reading!
Love,
Krystle
P.S. What item(s) are new to you this season that you are wanting to try?!?
 A Waxing and Makeup Event! These are 2 of My Favorite Things!
Happy Mid-January! I hope you still have momentum to make 2013 the best year ever!
My wish for you this year is to find ways to make your life more fulfilling from the inside out AND the outside in ;)
As I am on the home stretch (roughly 6 weeks away) from receiving baby Marks as the latest addition to our family, I will be referring you to some women that are EXTREMELY gifted in their professions.
Being a fashion stylist, my clients also ask me for advice on overall image. Everything from hair to nutritional advice to makeup tips to how to store jewelry/accessories...etc. So fortunate for me I have some phenomenal experts at my disposal to draw from and introduce you to.
The two wonderful ladies I would like to highlight today are Ellie McDougal (Professional Waxer) and Barbara Zanzig (Professional Makeup Artist/Lash Specialist). Both of these wonderful women are at the top of their biz in experience and offer fantastic services to their clients in the Madison/Middleton area.
 Ellie McDougalLiscenced EstheticianOwnerPure Waxing Studio
My personal experience with Ellie:Ellie and I have been friends for 5 fun years. When we had the same blond hair color, we got mistaken for the same person...a lot. I told her she was my "Twinkie" and since then, that is what we call each other :) Ellie is a very knowledgeable waxer. She was the first esthetician that gave me the skinny on waxing, how it works, and how I could maximize the benefits of waxing. Previous to going to Ellie, I would set up an appointment for a bikini wax a few days before going on vacation (big mistake!). After my service, It would be painful, red, blotchy, and the most undesirable thing I would EVER want to show off in a swimsuit. In-grown hairs were guaranteed within a few days after my service and every time I left the spa I would think to myself "Was that worth the pain and money?!"I have fair/sensitive Polish skin (thanks Dad!) and "stubborn" hair (double thanks). I was told by other estheticians that the combo between me and waxing was not good. I had given up on waxing and decided to stick to my razor, which still gave me bumps and didn't remove the hair as close as I would like.One night Ellie and I got on the topic of her passion and profession (10 years experience) of waxing. After sharing my experiences with her and hearing what she thought the problems might be, I was convinced that her level of experience and education on the subject might help me achieve a smooth, hair/bump free bikini line. Woo-hoo!I have been consistently waxing with Ellie for almost a year now and I am seeing a huge change! I now get a Brazilian Wax every 5 weeks. The Brazilian wax is her most popular service! That does not surprise me, because this girl is amazing at them! My hair grows in less and less with each wax and is much more manageable. I could never go back to shaving now. I also have Ellie shape my eyebrows when I come in and she is truly an artist! Instant eye lift ;)You can learn more about Ellie or set up an appointment at Pure Waxing Studio
 Barb ZanzigProfessional Makeup Artist / Lash SpecialistOwner BZ Artistry (Located in Pappilion Beauty Spa) My personal experience with Barb:Barb and I have been friends for 6 wonderful years. We met working together at MAC Cosmetics in Madison. Within the first few weeks, I could see the obvious talent she brought to the counter and her electric personality was one you always wanted to be around. She quickly gave me a wonderful nickname that is still used between us today, "Tiny Bunny Big Heart" or "TBBH". It means, I am a tiny bunny with a big heart. She usually introduces me this way to her friends and clients, which is followed by a confused look on their faces and me saying, "Hi!, I am Tiny Bunny Big Heart, but you can call me Krystle." It is the best nickname I have ever had!Barb is not your average makeup artist. She can do EVERYTHING from everyday beauty makeup to the outrageous and creative. You would definitely want her to do your makeup for a halloween party, new years eve, weddings, photo-shoots, or any other special event/party. She has 19 years of professional experience and has graced hundreds of faces with the delicate touch of her brush in that time.I look up to her in the field of makeup artistry and owe most of my tips and tricks to her teaching hand. She is truly a gem as a person and in her talent.
Some examples of Barb's makeup artistry skills in print... Want to learn more from these experts?! I have very exciting news for you! Ellie and Barb will be hosting a seminar for my Love, Krystle clients!!! Get educated on waxing and watch a live makeup demo with question and answer time to follow.
Waxing and Makeup Artistry Seminar
Tuesday, February 5th 2013 6:30-8:00pm
Hosted by Krystle Marks, Ellie McDougal, and Barb Zanzig
Location:
Papillion Beauty Spa
6720 Frank Lloyd Wright Avenue Middleton, WI 53562
(608) 335-6939
Ellie is offering 25% off a waxing service for those who attend this seminar! Plus learn valuable information about waxing and makeup artistry tips from these experts. Some wine and chocolate with be provided! Come ready to learn and have a great time.
$25 per person
Limited space available. Please RSVP to Krystle at krystle.marks@lovekrystle.com or Evite
 Miss Caroline, my lovely client ;) Get The Look!! Live Inside Look at the 3 Big Tips I Give my Clients.
I will be focusing on 3 big tips I give my clients when we meet. I took photos of one of my consultations last week to show you these tips in action.
I have a wonderful client named Caroline (on the left) that I met with last week. We have met one other time for a wardrobe consultation. After going through her items, I made a few suggestions for her shopping list to add to the versatility of her closet. Once she completed her shopping list, I came back and we put together some super fabulous outfits I wanted to share with you!
Caroline is not afraid of mixing colors and patterns, so we definitely go "outside the box" with her styling. So get ready to spice things up!
Caroline is an Inverted Triangle body shape. This means her shoulders are broader than her hips. By using these 3 tips, we created wonderfully balanced looks while keeping her adventurous style.
Tip #1 Don't separate your spring/summer and fall/winter wardrobes
There are SO many great options for layering in all seasons! Utilize your entire closet. | Get the look:
1. Polka dot tank 2. Brown wool blazer 3. Olive tube skirt
4.Black leggings 5. Gold Belt 6. Chunky Gold Necklace
7. Riding boots | Get the look:
1. Blue/red tank 2. Brown wool blazer 3. Dark wash skinny jeans 4. Leaopard Belt 5. Long Gold Necklace 6. Riding boots | Here are great examples of tip #1. Caroline had her favorite summer tanks in her closet, so we pulled them out and used them to layer with some of her warmer pieces. What we came up with was a nice mix of colors and patterns. | Get the look:
1. Polka dot tank 2. Fucscia long cardigan 3. Dark wash skinny jeans 4. Leopard belt 5. Long gold necklace
6. Riding boots | Get the look:
1. Green sheer tank 2. Cobalt blue cardigan 3. Dark wash skinny jeans 4. Colorful pattern scarf
5. Riding boots
|
Tip #2 When in doubt, put a belt on it!
Most body shapes really benefit from a belt worn on either the hips or waist. If you are a pear, hourglass, inverted triangle, or rectangle body shape, you should be utilizing belts on a regular basis. Apple shapes can too, depending on the size of their chest.
| Get the look:
1. Royal purple tie tank 2. Black moto jacket 3. Stripe tube skirt 4. Red/orange belt 5. Black leggings
6. Teal Booties
| Get the look:
1. Sequin tiger tee 2. Fuscia cardigan 3. Stripe tube skirt 4. Yellow belt 5. Black leggings
6. Black tall boots
| You should have waist belts AND hip belts. They are different sizes because your waist will be smaller than your hips. To built up your waist belt wardrobe, I would recommend one solid neutral (black, navy, tan, white...), one colorful solid (yellow, red, orange, green, blue...), and one with a pattern you like (leopard, snake skin, polka dots...). For your hip belt wardrobe, I would recommend one rich brown belt that goes with EVERYTHING, one patterned option, and a few solid colors. Medium to skinny belts are the most fashion forward. Get the look:
1. Chambray button down 2. Leopard cardigan 3. Stripe tube skirt 4. Orange belt 5. Black leggings
6. Black tall boots
A few more tips on waist belts, you can wear a waist belt over your cardigans or under them. I also like to tuck in the end of the belt to keep it from sticking out. They should hit you at your natural waist, usually higher than you think. Place the belt on the smallest part of your core, right under your rib cage.
Tip #3 Always find the balance for your body shape
Knowing your body shape and how to balance it is the KEY to dressing well.
| Great skinny jeans with a pink paisley pattern. | A solid top with patterned bottoms are PERFECT for an inverted triangle shape! | In our time together, Caroline learned that she is an Inverted Triangle body shape. This was HUGE for her! She had always thought she had broad shoulders, but with being lean/small in frame her friends would tell her she was crazy!
Your body shape has little to do with where you hold "weight". It is the natural shape you have and structure you were born with. It can change slightly with weight changes and having babies. Whatever stage you are in, embrace the shape you have and learn how to dress it!
For Caroline, she has a few simple rules to help keep her looking balanced and proportionate. As seen in the photo(s) above, bottoms that have print, stripes, or color are great for her. Drawing more attention to her bottom half helps to balance out her shoulders. She needs to avoid caps sleeves, halter tops, and spaghetti straps in the summer. Flouncy V-shaped tops are going to exaggerate her inverted triangle shape, so she needs structure on top with out building out the shoulders.
Think about this for YOUR body shape. Do you carry more on your bottom half, but have smaller shoulders? Flip what we do for an inverted triangle. Do solid dark colors on your bottom half and add bright colors and pattern on your upper half. You can do this with the top you are wearing, or by adding fun accessories like scarves and chunky colorful necklaces.
Do you have a larger chest and/or tummy? Keep your neckline open and look for darker solid colors for your top half. Also, tops with good structure or with a built in wrap or shirred detail are super helpful in creating balance!
I am really looking forward to showing you more live styling examples of other body shapes. I hope this post gives you at least 3 new things to think about when getting dressed. A big THANK YOU to Caroline for letting me take pictures and post them as an example for other lovely ladies. As always, thank you for your continued support by reading my posts!
Love,
Krystle
P.S. What was your favorite tip and why?!? Thanks for sharing...XOXO
Winter Fashion Inspiration 2012
Since I am not physically in a place to be rocking the latest trends and inspirations (there is only so much you can do with a growing bump), I wanted to share with you some of my favorite inspirational looks to give you some fuel this winter. I am VERY excited...
Pop of Color for Winter Some of you CRAVE color when your surroundings turn gray. I am SO there with you ;) How fun is this color combo of bright orange and pink? Love it! This look would also work easily with heeled boots or booties when things get slushy outside. If you have a hard time with skinny jeans, try leggings and a bodycon (tube) skirt.
Chic in Black
Here is a neutral look done very well. There are a lot of features in this look that make it work. The coat has fantastic detail as well as the boots, the mix of textures with a thin tight, wool coat, sheer shirt dress and knit hat make it look put together.
Statement Sweater
I am personally obsessed with Statement Sweaters. They are easily paired with any type of skinny jeans in all different colors and patterns. Fantastic with skirts too! Throw on your favorite boots and you are ready to work this trend.
Lovely Peasant Skirt
A skirt in the winter?! How refreshing ;) Add tights, boots, and a jacket for extra warmth. Make sure the skirt is extra long, just grazing the ground with boots on. I would stick to deeper jewel tones like Amethyst, Sapphire or Emerald for the winter season. Navy or charcoal would work too.
Bold Patterns Collide
Everything is neutral (black and white) except for the play on two totally different patterns. Working off the neutral background, the patterns totally play together! When pairing two loud patterns, make sure that there is some neutral distance. Bold on the top with the plaid scarf, then bold again on the bottom with the leopard booties with black/white in-between.
Feminine Meets Military
Happy happy, joy joy! I love happy colors in the winter, and nothing is happier than yellow! Especially one so feminine and sweet like this skirt. Have you ever thought about taking something so flouncy like this skirt and pairing it with something more masculine like a military, moto, or bomber jacket?! Fashion genius! The mary jane shoes are fine, but I would prefer seeing it with heels or boots ;)
Girl Next Door
This look is so basic, but the execution in the details make it work effortlessly. The front of the sweatshirt is tucked into the belt and rugged skinnies. This is SO important! If the sweatshirt was left un-tucked, the outfit would loose it's shape. Add great basic booties and some bracelet/bangles. Perfection (in an unpolished sort of way)!
I Got This
I bet you have all of the pieces you need to create this look in your closet! A dark fitted blazer (navy, gray, or black), dark wash skinny jeans, black booties, white tee,and a neutral patterned scarf, those are all the ingredients you need! Go mix it up ;) If you carry more volume on your bottom half, you can do dark wash bootcut jeans or tall boots as a substitute.
Fabulousness! This was super refreshing for me. I hope it was helpful in giving you new inspiration to beat the winter fashion slump. Enjoy playing with new combinations in this chilly weather!
Love,
Krystle
P.S. What looks where you the most drawn too?!? Will you try them?
 Early Pregnancy Essential Part 2 - Belts
Here is the next important essential item I want to highlight for women in their early-mid pregnancy. Belts are FANTASTIC for helping to accentuate your sweet little bump. They also draw attention under your rib-cage, giving the illusion that you still have a waist ;)
Learn more by watching my video all about how to wear belts during pregnancy!
I would highly recommend either finding tops and dresses with a removble belt, or adding a belt to items you think need more shape. I buy dresses and tops (like the dres in this video) that has a belt I can remove and put wherever the top of my baby bump is. This gives me great versatility in styling for my body as it changes. It's doesn't have to be a "maternity top"! Often maternity tops/dresses are too big in the first stages of pregnancy anyway, or the size you buy is too small to work for you in later pregnancy.
Getting comfortable in working with belts now is helpful in learning how to dress post pardon too. You want to draw attention to the smallest part of your core, to work as a distraction from other areas.
Here are some great adjustable belt options for you to look for:
Thank you so much for watching and reading! I hope this information was helpful to you and your loved ones as you go through the beautiful changes during pregnancy. Remember, always feel good in what you wear, at EVERY stage in your life!
Love,
Krystle
P.S. I would LOVE to hear your thoughts and questions. Please leave me a comment! XOXO
 The Best Holiday Dresses for Your Body Shape
It's that time of year again...to party with co-workers, friends, and family. Let's face it, you want to look SLAMMIN. And you will ;) Here is your guide to knowing exactly what dresses are not only on trend for this holiday season, but will flatter your beautiful and unique shape. We all know that will never go out of style...
Apple Shape
You have an apple body shape when you are well proportioned but carry weight around your tummy area and are therefore without a defined waistline. You have relatively slim arms and legs and can either be full or small chested. Your slim arms and legs are a wonderful asset that we will highlight by learning how to balance them with the rest of your body.
The best dress for an Apple Shape is something that gives you a defined waistline and lets you show off your fabulous legs. Check out these dresses...
Marco PoloHere is a beautiful classic wrap dress that shows off your legs and gives you a nice open neckline. | Carnival Jr.This has a great waist that cinches you in and then gently floats away. Love this beautiful rich blue. | Let's Accessorize... | | AINSLEY BRACELETYou have GREAT wrists, so show them off with statement bracelets and bangles! |
Pear Shape
You know you are a pear shape if you have a slender upper body and chest, but your hips, bum, and thighs have a bit more volume ;) You tend to have a nice slim waist and fantastic neckline.
The best dress for a pear shape is one that draws attention up, accentuate your small waist and floats away from your bottom half. These dresses are going to be the shape to look for...
Tracy Reese Moon Silver DressHere is a beautiful example of a dress for a pretty pear, hugs your slender top half then floats from your bottom half. | Picnic In ParadiseYou are made to wear a halter top dress! Take advantage of having a smaller chest and shoulders. This color is fun too ;) | Let's Accessorize...
Olivia Bib NecklaceThink about drawing the attention up. If you are doing a neutral color dress, a pop of color is appropriate and will bring your look to life. | Astor Five Strand NecklaceHere is a more neutral statement necklace. LOVE the sparkle. Great paired with any color. Again, it will also draw attention up to your great neckline. |
Hourglass Shape
Your body is naturally balanced with your shoulder/bust line to hips and bottom ratio. You also have a smaller waistline which gives you that beautiful hourglass shape.
We need to look for dresses that naturally mimic your balanced shape, so a dress that draws attention to your waist is a must. Check out these beauties...
Red CarpetHow is this for Va Va Voom?! This dress is a great shape for your beautiful naturally curvy body. This color is a-ma-zing too! Enjoy the turning heads... | Vaude-Veil Nights Dress This dress will also mimic your beautiful shape while keeping the neckline and hemline tasteful. Super gorgeous! | Let's Accessorize...
Aurora Cocktail RingOh yes girl, put a ring on it! Are you in love with this bling as much as I am?! Sparkle on my friend ;) | Liz Dop EarringsAdd some unexpected color while drawing attention up to you gorgeous face. This color is super fab for this holiday season and beyond.
| Inverted Triangle Shape
If you have broad shoulders, narrow hips, and relatively slender limbs you are an inverted triangle shape. Some women who have inverted triangle body shapes have a more flat bottom and straight waist, whereas others have a defined waistline and curvier bottom.
We need to look for dresses that balance out your shoulders. Dresses with volume or print on the bottom half are helpful ;)
Sheath's Got the LookA peplum style dress with an open neckline is perfect for balancing out your shoulders. SUPER in right now, you might as well rock it! | Fine and Dandy Black LaceThe straps on this dress are the perfect width for your shoulders. The skirt is nice and full to balance you out. Fantastic that it is black but still playful! | Let's Accessorize... Tempest NecklaceCould you imagine this with a red dress?!? Holy HOTT! Love this statement necklace. | Cleo Fringe EarringsThese are the perfect statement earring, especially if your dress has an embellishment on the neckline and you don't do a necklace. | Rectangle Shape
You are a rectangle (athletic or slender) shape if you are well proportioned, have relatively lean limbs and a straight waste. Some look naturally athletic, have a boyish frame, and tend to (there are always exceptions) have regular sized or small bust. Little to no curves is another way to know if you are a rectangle shape.
We can play up your straight frame, or give it some curve with feminine volume. It is really up to you, but here are a few options... Let's Accessorize...
Machesa NecklaceCould you imagine this stunner with a white dress?! You will be looking very lovely and put together and not in the usual "black" dress. | Lilith Fringe EarringsLet's make your dress a little rocker with these fabulous outlandish earrings! Love the idea of cocktail wear with some edge. |
Okay my foxy holiday ladies. Get out there and shake your stuff with tons of confidence knowing you are wearing what accentuates your BEST assets. I hope this was helpful in knowing what to look for ;)
Love,
Krystle
P.S. I have to know what color(s) you are loving for party dresses this holiday season. Tell me your favs! xoxo
 Early Pregnancy Essentials Part 1- Undergarments
If you are expecting or have been through the growing phases of pregnancy before, you know exactly how important comfortable, functional undergarments are...personally, they are my LIFE line right now!
Below are my suggestions on undergarments for pregnancy. I will follow up with some other helpful info after the video ;) Enjoy!
Here are the undergarment items I suggested in my video. I hope this is helpful! The Bella Band The Bella Band comes in 5 different colors: Black, Grey, Midnight (Navy), Nude, and White. The most cost effective options in my opinion would be to have one in Black and one in Nude. Black will go with anything and the nude will wear flawlessly under white and other colors. TIP: Nude wears better under white than white does. The same tip works for choosing a bra. When you wear nude underneath, it blends with your skin so you can't see where your undergarments start and your skin begins.
Calvin Klein Seamless UnderwwearI have had REALLY good luck with the Calvin Klein Seamless underwear. Laser cut, so NO seams along the top of the panty or leg openings. Get whatever colors make you happy, but the most practical color is going to be nude ;)Bra ExtenderI love this 3-pack of the Brahextender! All the colors you would ever need. This set works on 2 hook bras. If you mostly wear bras with 3 hooks, 3 hook extenders are also available.
This wraps up my advise on pregnancy essentials for undergarments! I hope this gave you a good foundation to build off of for your early pregnancy fashion. Much more to come, so please stay tuned for more video and blog posts!
Love,
Krystle
P.S. Please feel free to comment with your thoughts and questions! I would be happy to answer them ;) XOXO
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