High school isn't just about what you learn!

This article is for my tweens & teens out there!

So, you just finished middle school/had a moving up ceremony/finished elementary school ( I went to a district that had grades 7-12 in one building- so I went right from elementary school to high school. Not fun.)

If you find yourself wondering what your image will be in high school, or even what your first day's outfit is going to be- you've come to the right place. Here, I will make as many clothing matches as I can, so that you can either get ideas from it- or copy it completely!

Nightmare #1: You wake up and the first day of school it's hot out. Very hot. You know there won't be air conditioning. Imagine the worst case scenario.

One: Stay cute without looking like a beach bum, by wearing a cute- lightweight skirt and pairing it with a graphic tee/tank top. At Old Navy they have dozens of skirts to choose from that are light, and very cute!

I just recently purchased this skirt, which is made out of a very comfortable, airy material- especially for those end-of-the-summer heat waves.

If you're not the type of girl that wants to be seen in a somewhat knee length skirt, they have plenty of mini-skirt choices, for young girls. They come 4 different colors, so stock up!

Pair these skirts with a plain black blouse, or, a shirt that makes a simple statement- while you stay in style.

I just found this shirt, and think it's absolutely adorable. Especially for a first impression!

Or, if you want to go with shorts, these can be paired with a grey/black/white shirt or tank.

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Nightmare #2: It's your first day of school and it's raining. This is your backup. Make sure to check the weather the night before, just to be sure you won't be scrambling for this backup last minute. (this delays breakfast/hair/makeup/etc.)

Even though it's raining, you now have an excuse to wear your awesome new jeans (there is always one pair that we fall in love with in our closet- until they fall apart at the seams!)

If you're daring, try these with a black, white or grey solid color shirt. Or these.

If you're rolling your eyes because you're not ready to be that outrageous- try these- for a relaxed, comfortable, in-style jean.

If you're still thinking I am crazy because they're ripped, and your parent/guardian/relative would kill you for spending money on jeans that are already ripped- try these! I personally love a dark wash jean. I think you can't go wrong with a well fitted, dark wash. Anyway, since it's raining and all- you know can wear your cute plaid shirt! Or, even pair a dark jean with a shirt with more attitude!

And, remember: Have fun with your look- don't make yourself crazy and stand in front of the closet wondering what to wear for 2 hours every night! (You may think people are staring at what you wear, but your peers are all worrying and doing the same thing as you!)

So girls- stop stressing, and start dressing!!

Forever Fabrics: Tip of the day

If you are a full-sized woman: Do stay away from polyester, thin cotton, lycra and spandex.

Do purchase a balzarine material for your dress shirts! Otherwise known as a light cotton dress material. A fully, all around pleated skirt is a no-no for any body type. They aren't flattering whether you are a size 0, 12, 18, or 24!

If you are full-sized with curves: Try nicely fitted skirts with a slight flare or pleat at the bottom of the skirt

If you are full-sized with a straight shape: the prior skirt mentioned may also be paired with a simple belt in the middle of your waist to accentuate your figure, and create the illusion of a curvy shape!

Remember: It's not the size that matters, it's what looks good on you. Don't try and trick your brain by squeezing into a size 14, when you really need a 16. You will end up looking leaner with a size up! Trust me, you are the only one that knows what size those jeans are! Fool the rest of the world.

Shop smart, you beautiful people.

Teen Scene!

For all the teens, tweens, and kids out there- Graphic tees at Delia*s are all $5.99! Great find!

For all you size zeroes to elevens- forever 21 has a great deal on "in" denim for Fall 2009. The frayed look is coming back, so keep your eyes peeled.

If you want to shop "young," there is still a difference between trashy and classy. Stores such as Forever 21, Charlotte Russe, Old Navy and Gap have affordable and classy finds, overall. If you're looking for a trend (especially for school-wear) do not try finding it at a store such as Mandee, Rainbow or G&G. These stores carry poorly made, poorly designed, and inappropriate styles for a young girl. Remember, in grade school, you are still dressing to impress- both your peers and your teachers. Not the 13-year-old pre-pubescent boys! :D There are some times you should listen to mom, most times she'll pick something frumpy- but you get the idea- keep it covered, keep it classy, keep it cool!

Tip for the road: Low waisted jeans are fine for the weekend- but when bending down to grab your books, low waisted jeans will just result in embarrassment!

Cover up & keep it up! Enjoy the weekend, girls!

Chic can be cheap!

Whether you are a mother on-the-go, a college student, or still looking for a job- there are looks for you that are both fashionable and affordable. There is a stigma attached to lower-end department stores nowadays, and always- but trust me, those clothes are being made in the same fashion as the clothes you'd find in Saks or Bloomingdales! No one will be able to guess whether your jeans are $28 or $128 dollars. Follow my expert tips on how to spot well made clothing in department stores.

These jeans are 250 dollars. These jeans are just under $20. Hint: just because it's designer, doesn't mean it's going to be made better, or even fit better- for that matter!

Also, if you're average sized, or even plus-sized- most likely it is incredibly difficult to shop in a higher-end store. Believe me, I am one of the aforementioned - and shopping in these type stores is like pulling teeth.

Anyway- back to my secret finds! My personal favorite is Kohl's!

If you are strapped for money and need an outfit ASAP- Ladies, go for the dresses! You can purchase an entire outfit for 37 dollars- and all you will need to further customize this look will be any spare jewelry in your own house. Whether it be your favorite necklace, a few bangle bracelets, or a well placed bag!

Did you know that a well-fitted dress pant can take off 10 pounds of extra odds and ends! Trust me, this past thanksgiving dress pants were my friend! ; )

Many women make the mistake of buying a size too big, thinking it will cover up any bulges they have under the garment. However, this does quite the opposite- instead, this creates the illusion of having more bulges, and adds on 10 more pounds that you're trying to hide!

Dress pants are a very easy staple to find in any department store. These pants, for instance, are just under $20, with an appropriate shoe (such as a pointy-toed shoe) end up giving the appearance of a longer, and leaner leg. Remember, you don't need to wear heels to look chic. This is a common misconception among ladies of today. It's not necessary in today's fast-pace working-gal style.

Auf Wiedersehen, darlings- and remember, the most fashionable thing of all is saving money now for your outfits later!

Top ten things to never wear, anywhere.

Top ten things to never wear, anywhere.

1) The turtleneck. Never wear anything that has the name "turtle" in it. Trust me, I have a turtle- it's not a pretty sight. Some of you may remember your elementary school pictures, let's not have a repeat performance.

2) Overalls. My mother dressed me in these all through out grade school. I was definitely not cool, even as a child wearing them. Let's save the overalls for when you decide to be Farmer Joe. Or... if in my case, you are in a show that calls for overalls. White ones. To play an Oompa Loompa.

3) Fur coats. Not only is it unfriendly to animals, but it's also hideous! Unless you willingly want members of PETA to splash red paint on you. Think of 101 Dalmations, Cruella.

4) Disney shirts. That means the following, but are not limited to: Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Winnie the Pooh... anything that can be found in the Disney store in the adults section. I think this section should be eliminated entirely.

5) Grandma Cheetah. Now, this is not easy to pick out if you have NO idea what I'm talking about. Here's a visual. However, if you do choose to wear nice looking cheetah- wear it in moderation. Never wear a cheetah print dress with cheetah print shoes. If it is a cheetah dress, make sure it's not this one. Be smart, folks!

6) Sweatshirts around the waist. Let's leave this look for 1993, shall we? If you don't want to wear the sweatshirt... don't wear it at all- hang it off your arm. If you're shopping, throw it in the shopping bag of a purchased item. If you're on campus, put it in your bag. If you're in high school... put it in your locker! You get the idea. And- most importantly, if you are at work, let's hope it's "Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure" day!

7) Sandals with socks. I never liked this on Grandpa, and I don't like it on young people, either! All through out high school I recall many young girls wearing birkenstock shoes with ankle socks. The only time I suppose you can wear that

sort of fashion-idea, is when you are on the volleyball or

lacrosse team, and it's necessary to don this fashion

during the school day before a game.

8)Gladiator shoes. I'm sure many of you reading this probably own a pair. But personally, I am not a fan

of this style at all. These shoes, regardless of fad, make your feet look huge- no matter what size shoe you are!

Everytime I think of these shoes, I think of Gladiator, the movie: circa 2000. Leave it

for the fighters, gals! : )

9)Any sweater that is reminiscent of or looks like this. Many call it the Grandma christmas sweater. Just stick to a basic-colored sweater if you wear one at all.

10) Floral print dresses. They don't look good on anyone. I do realize that this is a fad, and is

coming back to fashion this summer/fall. However, heed my warning: when contemplating

whether or not to purchase a floral print dress or print of any kind, think of this. It's not pretty.

Even when you see the ads with cutesy girls wearing it like this. It still is not okay.

All my best, darlings. Dress to impress.

Fads and Plaids

Just because it's "in," doesn't mean it will look good on you.

Some of the fashion for fall 2009 is very edgy and cute. However, you must realize that the up-coming fashion does not look good on ALL body types. No fad is ever going to look amazing on everyone. Like, 2007's infamous horizontal stripes....

This is not good... this is a beautiful girl, who is not life-threateningly overweight. Yet, these stripes do not flatter her beautiful shape!

Again, with 2009's fashion of plaid, grunge, recycled 90s, etc. If plaid is worn the wrong way, you may end up looking like John Goodman on Roseanne, rather than Jessica Alba in a trendy plaid ruffled top. Remember to research online (sites like this, fashion police, William Sledd!) And, definitely try on these trends in the dressing room. Bring in a trustworthy pal, parent, spouse, or child- you need an honest opinion, so be sure to find an honest person!!

Again, have self-awareness. Black is also in. Think about who you are, would you really wear plaid if it wasn't in fashion? If you force a fashion onto yourself that doesn't reflect what you're about... Don't do it! Do yourself a favor and stay true to you!

Belts, beads, rings, bracelets, textured tights, fitted jackets, a little longer than mini-skirt skirts, a nice pair of fitted jeans/dress pants are best.

Invest in a nice pair of jeans and walk over to a local tailor. No, RUN to the tailor. Clothes need to be altered, not every piece of fabric in your size will fit you perfectly. Don't get hung up on the size you are wearing. Do you look good in your dress? Do you feel great?

Take these words- and shop, my friends, shop.

Open-Toe... oh no!

Why on EARTH are open-toed boots becoming popular?

I apologize to anyone who has a strong adoration for these bad boys... but clearly, these aren't practical shoes. Come on, folks... make up your mind... do you want a boot or a sandal? Or, better yet, what season are these supposed to be worn in? SALL? FUMMER?

Obviously, I am aware that there are slightly better open-toed boots than the aforementioned. However, why are THESE even on the market? Not only are these shoes hideous, but they are pointless as well.

At least Crocs didn't really make it into the mainstream fashion world, or on many people besides nurses (thank goodness.) Yet, I think these are almost as bad... it doesn't matter what material the shoes are people! Ugly is ugly no matter if it's rubber or leather... and don't even get me started on Cruggs. Another pointless invention to the shoe world, just as the open-toed boots are, in my eyes. If you want a Croc, you are looking for a breathable, airy, comfortable, "warm-weather" shoe. If you want an Ugg, you are a person looking for warmth, AKA a "cold-weather" shoe. Why mix this? Are people attracted to smashing two ugly fashions at once? What were people thinking in the patent? "Gee, people really are loving these Uggs, why not insert Ugg material into a Croc... maybe this will boost sales for these adorable Crocs!" Clever.

We must put an end to this HORRIBLE fashion terror, as soon as possible- one foot at a time.