Pantone's 2014 Color of The Year, as I'm sure you all know by now, is Radiant Orchid.

According to Pantone..."Radiant Orchid blooms with confidence and magical warmth that intrigues the eye and sparks the imagination. It is an expressive, creative and embracing purple—one that draws you in with its beguiling charm. A captivating harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones, Radiant Orchid emanates great joy, love and health."

If you aren't the type of person to wear a lot of color (anyone else totally guilty of living in black clothing for the winter...?), now is the time to bust out a little something something for your outfits. Spring is fast approaching, or so we New Englanders like to hope, and everyone is pining for something to rejuvenate their dull wardrobe.

Let me show you how to wear Radiant Orchid, whether you love wearing bright colors or refuse to wear anything that isn't monotone.

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Radiant Orchid by asmallbit featuring a clear nail polish

LOOK #1
Going Out With The Girls

Black is such a safe color to wear when you want to look put together but also dressy. Wear a flowy cropped tank top with high-waisted jeans or pants and strappy heels for the perfect outfit to get your groove on! Incorporate a bit of Radiant Orchid with your accessories, whether it be studs for a subtle touch or a small crossbody bag to break up the black.

It'll give your outfit a little more interest and on the bright side, you'll be able to spot your bag easily if you leave it somewhere!


LOOK #2
Lunch, Brunch, Dinner Date

A striped top is an essential. Skater or circle skirts have been in trend for a while now and pair well with fitted tops to give the illusion of an hourglass figure. Go for a cropped version for a more springtime appropriate look and choose a skirt that is bold in color. The Radiant Orchid color will speak for itself and the brightness of the color will lift the entire tone of the outfit. It's a wonderful alternative to the showstopper red that most people would consider a "sexy" or "attractive" color if you plan on wearing this on a date.

Tie in the color of your skirt with a necklace and keep the outfit balanced with some nude heels (they'll lengthen your legs, too. bonus!). If you really aren't feeling the colored skirt, pair the top with a black skirt and opt for a bright lipstick instead. It'll instantly brighten up the face.


LOOK #3
Frolicking in the Fields

Whether you plan on going shopping or having a picnic, this outfit is great for casual activities. Overalls have been making a comeback in the form of skirts and shorts. Go for a lighter wash denim to contrast with a bold colored top. The graphic tee I chose is fitted and cropped, to maintain the figure against the looser silhouette of the overalls. Graphic tees are fun and easy to wear. Depending on the graphic, it can be a great way to showcase your personal style and be a conversation starter!

Don't like how crazy the print is? No problem. This will look just as good with a white tee. Try a bold nail polish color to add a bit of color to the outfit. If you just aren't a fan of the brightness of the Radiant Orchid color, try a lighter tone of purple in your accessories or your shoes. Canvas sneakers are an easy way to incorporate color to an outfit (and they're wicked comfy!).


I hope these tips were helpful and you can use them as a general guide to wearing any kind of color. Happy styling!



~Jenn

It's still pretty early in the month but I'm anxiously awaiting the days where I can finally walk outside without a coat on. Not that the current weather reports are showing any signs of that...

Anyway, to cheer myself up (and you, too, if you just so happen to live in areas of crap weather!), I've created this mini collage of things I'm enjoying and things I plan on enjoying for the summer.



1) top buns: where to begin!? I've been wearing my hair in a bun for the past few months because it's at an awkward length... and I'm waiting for it to grow! plus, it gives me an excuse to throw my bangs up, too. they're getting really unmanageable... {sigh}

2) blouses: of any material (chiffon, cotton, velvet, suede), but specifically the sleeveless ones. I own one with sleeves and for some reason, it just doesn't look quite right on me. But that's just fine. I get to show off my man arms.

3) sunglasses: I don't know how to describe the shape. The actual lenses are round but the frame is more.... pointed near the top outer edge? I'll do a mini post later about frames and face shapes!

4) leather handbags: this one isn't really just for may or for summer. I love leather handbags for year-round usage. they're luxurious and essentially waterproof. I can't wait until I can buy myself a Michael Kors one. oh but this one is from Zara (it's gotten quite popular lately).

5) sneakers: high tops! the glory. I used to be obsessed with these. I've recently gotten back into them because of all these Korean idols and their hip Korean fashion. {lol}

6) sports bras doubling as mini tank tops: the long title says it all. I can't wear bandeaus for the same reason I won't wear strapless dresses; the never ending fear that one day it will just slip off...

7) pink hair: I don't plan on dying my hair pink any time soon (or ever) but I've just been really into seeing pink hair... especially light pink. It's so cute!

8) large sun hats: I never used to care about getting a little tan. I don't get sunburnt so it was never a big deal but now I'm pretty afraid to go outside without a little coverage. These big hats are so fun. and functional! which I love. it's like mobile shade.

9) muscle tees: literally obsessed. I've been collecting more and more muscle tees but I still can't get enough of them! Perfect for the hot weather but I'm hoping to layer sweaters and get use out of them for the winter months, too!

10) fuzzy/feathery skirts: actually, this works for shirts too. I've been kind of interested in more 3D textured clothing since most of mine are solid colored or not very exciting. Plus, it's fun to touch.

11) collars: this is one of the biggest trends I know right now. I've seen fashion and beauty gurus alike sporting a variety of collars (removable and unremovable) (studded and not studded). I personally prefer wearing these under sweaters!

12) giraffe print: hmm. Not much to say about this. It's a chic way to incorporate animal print. Lately, leopard and cheetah print has looked a little too tacky for me. In small increments, it's okay but... giraffe print is so much nicer looking.

13) polka dot tights: the sheer kind.

14) wrap bracelets: I don't ever wear bracelets but I like the look.

15) floral sneakers: These are Keds. I love the color combination; very girly and playful. I'd probably pair this with something edgier but these shoes are more versatile than you'd think. A white t-shirt, pastel lavender skirt, leather jacket, plus these babies and you're all set for a date, a hangout, or even a picnic!

If you want to know specifics about each item, please visit my polyvore!

I will also be posting up that list of shoes I dislike, soon. I pinky swear! So please look out for that (:


Until next we meet,
{kissy faces}
~Jenn