Twenties Life

Cloudless sunny days, ice cold drinks, beautiful cheery people, tons of memories to be had, and the only time in the year when less is actually more in regards to fashion. Give your suits and sports coats a vacation, let your button-ups breathe, kick off the shoes and socks, and say adios to all the trinkets that adorn your body. Its summer time let the good times roll!

In the midst of all the nonchalance, it is absolutely bewildering to see the ways how we can take an innocent concept, turn it on its side, and cause the most fashion failures when our bodies are allowed to breathe. Due to the constant “surprises” found during the summer season, summer fashion comes with a set of faux pas all their own. Listed below are the most common broken rules that need to be dealt with immediately!

Socks and Sandals

The most commonly violated summer faux pas. One’s feet are typically covered and wrapped up every day of the year, why would we do an injustice to ourselves and bundle them up in warm thick socks? Summer stands for sockless.  Sandals have openings for a reason, if they didn’t they’d be shoes. Get it? Wearing socks and sandal causes heaviness and draws a person’s eyes downward, away from the face. This resulting effect is a shortening and widening the body.

If your feet are not looking their best, fix them. Go to the spa (yes, men go to spa’s) and clean yourself up. There is no excuse to have nasty feet, so stop being lazy. This is a part of grooming, all the seemingly little things add up and make an impression.

Speedos/ Banana hammocks/ tiny shorts

No! No! No! If you are a violator of this rule, there is no forgiveness. There is no reason for a man to be walking anywhere (beach, city, at home, etc.) in any form of short shorts. If you walk around, and hear the Royal Teens “Short Shorts” playing around you, time to look for an alternative.  Look for a pair of board shorts (Not too baggy) that fit properly and end a little above the knee crease.

Cargo Shorts

Oh, the memories of stuffing everything but the kitchen sink into the two billion pockets at your disposal. But let’s keep it that way; a memory. Cargo shorts are great for the school-age kiddos but are black listed for the twenty-somethings. Why, you ask?

Cargo shorts with the huge pockets don’t do any justice to one’s silhouette. It makes the wearer seem big in the hips causing a “squished” appearance. Cargo shorts also make the wearer appear unkempt, leave the cargo shorts for the hiking trips and miscellaneous adventures.

Now-a-days, shorts are cut slimmer and have a wide range of patterns. A great pair of men’s casual shorts should follow an imaginary line straight down from the hips, and the hem should end about an inch form the knee.

Strong Fragrance

A common misconception among men is to wear a strong masculine scent 24/7. On top of the strong scent, taking a bath in it is the next violation that typically follows. Read (The last frontier) for the full breakdown of the when and where certain scents fit in your day-to-day life. A weighty scent on hot days can be sickening to ones that have to endure its pungent odor. One simple request from all of us who have to smell you, please keep it at a 3 spray maximum.

Tank tops

A tank top is meant to worn as an undershirt. That’s it. An undershirt. You’re not at the gym and you’re not a Jersey Shore joke, you’re better than that. Thank your lucky stars. Say no to the tank top as an outer shirt. Want to wear something light? Try a colored T-shirt or a light weight polo that accentuates your good points.

Wrap-Around Sunglasses

If you’re going out for a game of tennis, a round of golf, or the Terminator, then by all means terminate your opponents! On the other hand, if you’re not trampling the naysayers at the sport of your choice and all you want to do is take in the sights and sounds of the locale; buy some styles shades. A pair of sunglasses that perfectly frame your face are just as important as the shirt you buy. Don’t buy a pair that covers your face and makes you seem like a fly. Be patient when shopping for the perfect pair, it might take awhile. Once you find them, the compliments will start flying.

When it comes to fashion there are a lot of different pieces of advice floating around.  Some people say to boost your style you should keep up with trends, while others believe a classic, timeless look is best.  Some feel that fitting in is the best way to be fashionable, and yet others try to be completely different.  And there are some who just don’t get it at all.

Well I’m about to tell you one simple fashion tip that will boost your style no matter what (if any) of the listed categories you fall under.  I’m about to reveal to you a tip that you’ve heard over and over, but never in a fashion sense.

Get Fit.

Now read what I said carefully, because I said one thing and most of you heard another.  I didn’t say lose weight.  I didn’t say diet.  I didn’t say to cut carbs, fat, or delicious desserts.  I said to get fit.

Your level of fitness can be read almost immediately by anyone who has working eyes.  People can just look at you and tell if you’re fit.  It’s not because you’re skinny, and it’s not because your buff (although that is often a sign of fitness).  People who are fit walk with better posture, have more positive body language, and wear clothes off the rack better than their non-fit equivalent.

It doesn’t matter if you are rocking Gucci slacks, an Ed Hardy shirt, or a good ole fashion ringer tee.  The fitter person will often look better regardless.

Now here comes the implementation of that advice. Again, I’ll say one thing and most of you will hear another, so listen carefully.  Get out of the house and get active.  This means whatever you want it to.  Take a walk, a run, play a sport, play with your kids, siblings, parents, friends.  Throw a ball, a frisbee, a rock.  Climb a tree.  Stretch, do yoga, hike, kayak, swim, mountain bike, climb a mountain.  Lift a heavy object, put it down, rinse, repeat.  Learn to skate.  Do anything that makes your heart beat a little faster, and maybe even causes you to break a sweat.  For those of you wondering, yes, sex is included in this list.  Do it. Do it a lot.

Whatever physical activity you enjoy most is the one you will stick to.  And consistency is a must in fitness.  The beautiful part of fitness is that it’s transferable.  If you get really good at basketball, and decide to pick up mountain biking, you’ll already have a head start from your couch potato friend, because you are already a bit cardiovascularly conditioned.  Now you won’t be as good as your mountain biking friends, but you won’t die out there either.

A little body recomposition (turning fat into muscle) could do us all good.  Who doesn’t want a nicer back, more muscular chest, bigger butt, flatter abs, and stronger legs?  Who doesn’t want every single piece of clothing they have to look better on them than it did before?  I know I do.  I’ll bet that you do too.

So get up, get out, and get fit.  Your style will thank you later.

Jubilee

Must:

I ventured out of my bubble and ran into a great place last year. I’ve been going back to Jubilee over and over again. It’s like a secret hole in the wall boutique that no one knows about unless you’re ‘in the know’. Whether you’re new to Houston or a Houstonian seeking something new Jubilee is a great place to come by. Rare finds like refurbished furniture, unique clothing and accessories will leave you wanting more! I spoke with owner Kristal Kirksey to find out a little bit more about this deliciously delectable boutique.

Jubilee has ‘deliciously elegant fine foods & housewares’ once you stop in you always want to go back! Very similar to finds at the Nutcracker Market that happens here in Houston every December, that provides one of a kind home goods that have a unique feel to Houstonians, except Jubilee is open year round…so good for you! If you have a unique style and love rare finds you might not want to tell many so you get it all to yourself! It’s a great place right in the heart of old town Houston!

If you are looking for vintage inspired pieces to add to your wardrobe definitely stop in! Also, Jubilee still has a few rodeo pieces in stock from early March in their collection – flirty pinks and white rodeo skirts are a must have. So cute with those vintage boots you just purchased for the rodeo! Kirksey also adds that ivories, whites, and baby pinks are big for the spring and are a must at her boutique. I tried on and pictured a few of the outfits that were definitely some of my favorites.

(click the pictures to see the full versions)

‘Let them eat cake!’

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

The tags read ‘Eat Me’ & “Drink Me’

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

An Alice Inspired Dress

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

‘And she tried to fancy what the flame of a candle is like after the candle is blown out, for she could not remember ever having seen such a thing.’

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

‘”I am real!” said Alice, and began to cry.’

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

‘No wonder you’re late. Why, this watch is exactly two days slow.’

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

A majority of the outfits that I have paired together give off a flirty spring feel, a Marie Antoinette touch, and an Alice and Wonderland vibe. I wonder if it’s because I am obsessed with all of the above or if it’s because the boutique is in the now. I think that it is a combination of both!

I love the vibe that this boutique has and it is definitely one of my favorites!

Lust:

The furniture and chandeliers are definitely one of a kind so if you are looking for pieces like these for your home it is definitely worth the trip to stock up on home goods like these! The pieces have a vintage charm and a modern flair. Kirksey adds charming pieces to her collection with funky eggplant, lime green, light pink, blue, & hot pink colors to her growing antique furniture collection making it a perfect piece for any home.

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

Mad Hatter arrangement hand made by Jubilee Boutique

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

Retro Clock

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

Stop in and tell owner Kristal Kirksey hello and that you saw her boutique in Haili’s Flavor of the Week! Enjoy!

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

Photo Credit: Mallary Zwiercan Photography

Beauty Products of the Week:

S Factor by TIGI

S Factor -- Color Savvy is great for all hair types. #1 on my list right now for hair care shampoo and conditioner. Leaves hair shiny and gives a bit that extra ‘umph’ that’s needed after blow drying. Has an absolutely fabulous smell too! Round brush your hair for better results when blow drying.  Now let me upgrade you! S Factor also now has a new version of shampoo of conditioner a revamped S Factor called Diamond Dreams. Also a fabulous choice!

Listens of the Week:

Check out the album Contra from Vampire Weekend. With tunes like “Contra” and “White Sky” this is a great listen to get you through a long week. This album has a modern feel and a great new sound for 2010. Pop it in your car on the way to work to help jump start your day! Add it to your ipod for the work out you’ve been dreading I know it’ll help get your through! Enjoy it! I think you’ll love it.

Have a listen to “White Sky”.

I hope that you enjoyed your new boutique of the week, your fabulous hair products, and the great tunes! Have a great week. Enjoy!

So, you’ve read Wardrobe Essentials: The Closet Cleanup and looking to update your wardrobe? First and foremost, congratulations on taking the first step. When buying dress shirts, it can be like deciphering another language. Why is a dress shirt at Wal-Mart $9.99 while another dress shirt at an upscale store is over $800? What’s the difference? They both feel soft,  have two sleeves, a collar, and buttons. What so special about a dress shirt? That’s the purpose of this article, to make our readers aware of the types of shirt out there to buy and stay away from.

Before we enter this path of enlightenment, two questions need to  be asked. What is a dress shirt and what is its purpose in a man’s wardrobe?

A proper dress shirt is a button-up shirt with a collar, long sleeves, and wrist cuffs. Its “secret” mission is to elegantly frame the wearers face and be the foundation of any outfit; be it enhancing a jacket or the centerpiece of an outfit.  Changing certain characteristics (i.e. color, texture, pattern), a dress shirt can be relay the message of sport, leisure, or formal.

Proper Fit:

When it comes to properly fitting a shirt to one’s body, 99% of men (slight exaggeration) get it wrong. Reason? Because ready-made garments from a mass produced name brand are meant to fit a wide variety of body types. If the shirt fits us in the neck, it fails in sleeve length. If the length of the sleeves fit, it’s an EPIC fail on the body of the shirt; which bulges around the stomach to make one appear like a deflated hot  air balloon. The answer to this problem is simple, find a tailor.

Other characteristic to look for when deciding the fit on a shirt:

1. Allow 2 fingers in the collar when unbuttoned
2. Be tight enough around the wrists, so that the cuffs must be unbuttoned to remove the shirt.
3. To make sure the shirt isn’t too tight or loose, check to see if you are able to pinch out 1-2 inches of fabric. If you can, the shirt is of good fit.
4. The shoulder points on a shirt must not go beyond the shoulder.
5. Sleeves should be long enough so that when arms are raised the cuffs  don’t pull drastically down your forearm. On the other side of the coin, they should be short enough so that u don’t have more than one inch of fabric gathering around your cuffs when your arms are relaxed.

Dress Shirt Fabric:

Cotton:  Quite possibly the most used and best fabric to use for everyday wear and for any occasion. I t’s durable, soft, conducts heats and moisture well, and can be ironed.

Man-Made Fibers:  Shirts that contain man-made fibers are typically the blue light specials. They are usually wrinkle free  and stain resistant. Man-made fibers aren’t the best when it comes to heat and moisture conduction, so when buying a shirt that has man-made fibers, stray away from shirts that have more than 50% man made fiber. When under a budget, these dress shirts are always an alternative to cotton.

Silk: The platinum standard of dress shirts, but not recommended for everyday use. This is because eof their low durability and high costs.

Shirt Collars:

Point Collars – Are called so because the collar points at angles being at or less than 60 degrees. Point collars draw the eye downward, which elongates the face. The majority of shirts sold nowadays are of the point collar variety

Spread Collars – Are titled so because of the collar cutting at angles greater than 90 degrees. Excellent for men with a medium to long face, because they widen the face.

Shirt Cuffs

Button Cuffs – Can be worn for any event; casual or formal.  The most formal version of a button cuff is known as a barrel cuff (pictured) which has two buttonhole and two vertical buttons.

French Cuffs –  Usually designated for formal occasions, and is characterized by a double cuff that has to folded back and fastened by cufflinks. This style gives off a distinctive elegant appearance.

Dress Shirt Buttons

Typically made of plastic and is fairly strong. Low end shirts will have buttons made of low quality resin that will crack and break within a year. So next time a shirt button breaks after a wash or after a few wears, know that the shirt is made of very low quality materials and you should be seeking out a better quality shirt.

A more decadent alternative to plastic buttons is Mother of Pearl. So hard that they actually break needles, they are only found on higher end clothing. But be wary, they disintegrate over time when exposed to harsh detergents.

As your reading this your probably thinking, what is the point in worrying about these seemingly unimportant and stupid characteristics in a shirt? The answer is simple: Details matter. Regardless of how much people want to talk about this issue, the most powerful statement you will ever make is not verbally but non-verbally. We only converse and connect with a small percentage of the people we actually see. Your body language and what you wear speaks for you. Your shirt is the centerpiece of your wardrobe. Let it convey the message you want.

The weather is perfect! The sun is out and the breeze is nice and cool. So much better than the freezing winter and the scorching heat of the summer it’s right smack in the middle and I’m in heaven! Ready to pull out my jeans and layer tanks, it’s a comfortable lounge wear time of the season. Comfortable tanks for the beach and for lounge wear while you’re out and stylish tanks and shirts for work and night life. I ventured out to find a couple of comfortable tanks for this season. Abejas boutique in Houston is definitely the spot and queen bee of comfortable, casual wear just in time for spring break!

All of these tanks are amazing finds, soft to the touch and easy to layer up to throw over a pair of jeans or some wide leg cotton pants comfortable and casual for this nice, cool weather.

Must:

I feel that Victoria’s Secret is well known for their lingerie when we’re quick to forget that they’ve actually got great apparel for women. They’ve really hit spring on the nose this season with great finds and great prices and may I mention really great colors.

Victoria’s Secret has amazing racer back, double scoop neck, and tanks with built in bras all featured in lovely colors to celebrate spring! I found quite a few tanks under $30 bucks. Now that’s a steal! Not bad for such elegant and fun tank tops that go great with jeans! If you’re spending spring break at a lake house or at the beach check out their website for cute sundresses and tanks to pop on over your bathing suit. If you plan on eating out during your spring break after swimming or laying out all day throw one of these cute tanks on over a pair of jeans with a nice pair of wedges..

Try the V-neck halter bra top (#253-819), only $25.50. An awesome cut to flatter any figure and great over jeans try the V-neck halter bra top in bright melon, a perfect punch of color for your apparel. Don’t forget the tanks that are elegantly flattering and a perfect steal for your spring wardrobe! These prices are great and these items can be staple pieces for layering this spring: The Henley Tank in paradise pink which is only $10 right now (#225-596), the Lace racerback Bra Top tank on sale now for $15 (#184-600), and the new Racerback stretch tank (#259-408 ) 2 for $20 right now.

Visit Victoria’s Secret online for shopping made easy at http://www.victoriassecret.com/

Lust:

Abejas boutique located in Houston features designers from all over the United States and is home to the most comfortable lounge wear that I have ever encountered! Comfortable to throw on and amazingly soft to the touch, these tanks are a lust but definitely a must if your budget calls for it!

I switched out a few tanks with the same pair of jeans to show the different looks of each tank. Oh the endless possibilities in the store! These were a few of my favorites and I didn’t have much time. I wish I could have pictured everything! Unfortunately my schedule didn’t call for it so here are a few that I know you’ll love!

This tank is part of the Wilt line. A great piece to layer over a white tank for the cool breezy weather of spring and is amazingly comfortable with jeans. Paired with a rosary necklace (one of many Abejas accessories) and pointed toe boots. Try some of the boutique’s flip flops like the K Jaques Cyrus flip flops imported from France (below):http://www.abejasboutique.com/detail.aspx?ID=67214

This is a great tank! I layered it over a comfortable white tank & again paired it with a rosary necklace of a different color. This is just an all around great top made by Tysa, a great brand which never ceases to be comfortable. Check out the website to purchase this top

http://www.abejasboutique.com/detail.aspx?ID=67378

Tysa Tobago Tank Mink

This top sold out like hot cakes. Be sure to check back in to the boutique for more Raquel Allegra. To learn about the designer check out the site:

http://raquelallegra.com/

For updates on availability of Raquel Allegra at the Abejas boutique in Houston check out their website:

http://abejasboutique.com/

Also keep up with the website for new merchandise is always coming in. You definitely find apparel there that is one of a kind at this boutique so keep posted and stop in if you’re in the area!

Enjoy your new finds and venture through both websites to find tanks that are great layering pieces and perfect colors to make your spring as delightful as the weather and perfect to pair with the apparel that you already have. Enjoy!

Listen of the Week:

This listen is perfectly catchy! Great to roll the windows down and enjoy the fresh and cool air of spring.

“I Feel it All” (Britt Daniel Remix) – Feist

Listen to the song here.

In Wonderland

No wonder it’s all the rave! With a hot cast, daring costumes and a great soundtrack Alice in Wonderland has taken viewers by storm. I will venture into Alice inspired looks, eye shadow inspired by the movie that’ll drive you mad if you don’t have, and a soundtrack that’s creatively fashion forward.

Gear up for a look into Wonderland.

Lust:

Colleen Atwood, Oscar winner for best costume design, designed the costumes for Alice in Wonderland. For a fun feel and a new spin to Alice’s clothes Atwood made the movie ravishingly fun with looks that were daringly fashion forward throughout the movie. I had my eyes peeled as “Drink Me’s” and “Eat Me’s” came along I was ready to see another one of Atwood’s dresses. The costume design is remarkable and I am ready to see Alice’s dresses up on the market.

Must:

After seeing Colleen Atwood’s designs in Wonderland I wanted to get my hands on something Alice inspired now. Avril Lavigne collaborated with Disney on her Abbey Dawn line featured at Kohl’s and pulled together looks completely inspired by the movie. The line is versatile and can be made into a girly, casual, dressy, or edgy look. These pieces can be mixed and matched and that’s what I love about it!  Here are a few pieces you should definitely try:

www.http://kohls.com

Beauty Products of the Week:

I am always seeking out beauty products fit for a queen! These are a few that I have tested and now I use them on a weekly basis! Although I fell in love with most of the products that I have tried, these are the few that stuck out in my mind that I wanted to share! These products will vamp your roots, volumize, and hold your hair for hours. Don’t hesistate to grab these products while you’re out shopping!

Speaking of queens and your highness, TIGI has revamped their Catwalk line. They have changed the line’s color from blue to purple to distinguish the difference between their products. The purple pops and sticks out but for customer’s who have used the product for years might have a hard time finding it because of the color change. For those who haven’t used the Catwalk line yet, you are in for a real treat! Not getting the volume you want for your hair? Having a dull time with the styles you try? There’s a little trick to give your hair the right kind of lovin! Spray in Catwalk’s “Your Highness” the brand new and revamped root boosting spray which used to simply be called “Root Boost”. I’m liking the new name and I’m still loving the product! Give it a try on your hair, promise, you’ll love it!

TIGI has another line that I am absolutely head over heels for, well, at least for the Rockaholic hairspray. I put it to the test and this hairspray really does hold all day. Even my lazy curls stay intact til the end of the day. Great to spray on before you go out, even on straight hair. Don’t let the Texas humidity get to you save yourself, and your hair frizz to the Rockaholic hairspray.

Also, check out the exclusive Urban Decay Alice in Wonderland ‘Book of Shadows’ shadow swatch kit. It features an exclusive Alice in Wonderland pop up scene surrounding a mirror on the front of the shadow kit. The eyeshadow have fun theme names like ‘Jabberwocky’, ‘Mid-night Tea Party’, ‘Wonderland’, and ‘Mad Hatter’. Available on urbandecay.com/ or at Sephora.

http://www.urbandecay.com/categories/AliceInWonderlandPalette.cfm

Listen of the Week:

The Alice in Wonderland Soundtrack has an all-star lineup featuring new music from Avril Lavigne, Robert Smith from The Cure, Mark Hoppus of Blink-182, and the All American Rejects. There are 2 different soundtracks featured for the Tim Burton movie one being the Alice and Wonderland Soundtrack featuring the music for the motion picture and one being ‘Almost Alice’ which is a soundtrack of contributing artist for Alice and Wonderland. On top of being a phenomenal movie the soundtrack ‘Almost Alice is a wonderful side kick!

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Tracklisting:

1. “Alice (Underground)” performed by Avril Lavigne
2. “The Poison” performed by The All-American Rejects
3. “The Technicolor Phase” performed by Owl City
4. “Her Name Is Alice” performed by Shinedown
5. “Painting Flowers” performed by All Time Low
6. “Where’s My Angel” performed by Metro Station
7. “Strange” performed by Tokio Hotel and Kerli
8. “Follow Me Down” performed by 3OH!3 featuring Neon Hitch
9. “Very Good Advice” performed by Robert Smith
10. “In Transit” performed by Mark Hoppus with Pete Wentz
11. “Welcome to Mystery” performed by Plain White T’s
12. “Tea Party” performed by Kerli
13. “The Lobster Quadrille” performed by Franz Ferdinand
14. “Running Out of Time” performed by Motion City Soundtrack
15. “Fell Down a Hole” performed by Wolfmother
16. “White Rabbit” performed by Grace Potter and the Nocturnals

The boy short is gaining popularity in the lingerie world, offering both comfort and sex appeal.

There’s a reason top lingerie boutiques are seeing thong sales drop as fast as the waistlines of jeans did when thongs were first made popular: everyone is tired of witnessing the endless parade of visible thong strings that pop out of the hipster jeans of Britney Spears-wannabes.

The look is dated, trashy, and dead.

Of course, there are the practical reasons for owning thongs, mainly to prevent visible panty lines when wearing skirts and formal wear. However, with panties made of Tactel now available (Check out Jockey No Panty Line Underwear), you can finally get rid of the permanent wedgie without trading it in for panty lines.

What has ascended to the throne of sexiest panties? Boy shorts that leave a little more to the imagination but still accentuate the best part of your bum are gaining popularity fast. That curve that peeks out from under the fabric is just enough to drive guys crazy while still being comfortable enough to wear everyday.

Some pointers to keep in mind before you head to your favorite lingerie spot:

• If you’re sporting a small bum, a pair of boy shorts that end at the mid-part of your cheeks will help your backside appear fuller.
• If you’ve got a little extra love toward the top—particularly the muffin top or love handle kind—a wide band at the waistline will help you appear slimmer. Also, try to find fabrics that will rest easily on your hips without cutting into them. Victoria’s Secret has some lace boy shorts out now that, I swear, are the most comfortable and sexiest underwear I’ve ever owned (New Lacy Hip Hugger).

• If you insist on staying loyal to the thong, stay away from the string thong and instead opt for her classier cousin: the wide waistband lace thong.

…and don’t forget: if your pants are on, no one should see your panties! This isn’t 1999, and Sisqo’s “Thong Song” is both a faux pas in the club scene and as your personal anthem.

As it is close to becoming spring, many of us in our twenties are graduating from undergrad, graduating from graduate school, or have the winter time blues and seeking change. A great way to get a fresh start is by getting a job! (Hey contribute to social security so I have money when I retire) So I am sure that many of you read articles or listen to career services people tell you what to do and what not to do in interviews. I bet also, that many of you take the advice lightly and play some iPhone application rather than listen to what is going on because hey it’s March and mommy and daddy are still paying or the student loans do not have to be repaid in a few months.

Wake up! You need to get a job and you need to stand on your feet become independent and do it now. The economy does not offer the greatest job market now and it is taking longer to find a job and there is plenty of competition out there. You do not want to find yourself after graduation spending weeks or maybe months looking for a job and you now have no money, your shoes have holes, and you get excited that Ramen is on sale for 10¢ a pack.

So let’s say perchance you have mustered up the courage to fill out the pages and pages of a job application and somehow someone thought you were so qualified and excellent that you hear:

Telephone rings

“Hi, can I speak with Job Applicant?”

“Oh yes, that’s me!”

“Well we think you might be a great candidate for this position and we would like to interview you.”

“Really!? Oh my god! Excuse me, I mean, that sounds good.”

“How does Tuesday at noon sound?”

Pretty crappy because I wanted to sleep till noon and then meet my friends for lunch and have martinis after.

“Oh yeah Tuesday will work, perfect!”

So you run and go kiss your mom and pray to god and thank him for all the miracles he sent you and that you will never do anything bad again if you get this job and you twirl around and then…crap, a real interview.

How to prepare? What to do? Well, what I tell you won’t guarantee you a job, but it will make you stand out, and that is what is most important. So part one:

The Look

(If you are feeling extra special you should jam out to Roxette, “The Look”)

1. You need a suit. No a pimp suit, not your homecoming outfit, and not a tux. Preferably a black or dark navy blue suit. Girls if you do get a skirt suit, the skirt needs to come to your knees. No one wants to see what you are working with, no one.
2. You wear either a white button shirt or a blue button shirt. No pinks or reds or anything that was pulled out of a fashion magazine.
3. Guys, wear a tie, power colors work and nothing funky. Stick to reds and blues. If it has a design, make sure it is appropriate. No skulls, sports teams, or hula girls on your ties.
4. Girls, accessorize, but not too much. Stud earrings work, like pearls etc. No giant hoops. A nice necklace to match, but nothing too big and gaudy.
5. Clean shoes, polish it. Girls peep toes are okay, closed toed preferred, but nothing too chunky or with hooker heals. Three inches is pushing the limit.
6. Do your hair and brush your teeth. Please. Guys style your hair and do not do the roll out of bed look. Get your hair cut and your sideburns reasonable length. No Elvis chops. Girls pulled back hair is the best; get it out of your face and use hairspray if you need to pull back any short layers. Buns are not needed. If your hair is short, still style it to where it is not in your face. Make it look presentable.
7. Make up. Guys wear chapstick if your lips are dry. No one likes to look at crusty lips. Girls keep your make up simple. Now is not the time for fake eyelashes and smoky eye. Glitter is a no.
8. Manicure. Guys make sure your nails are well cut and groomed. Same with women. No one wants to see neither uncut mismatched nails nor dirt underneath.
9. Socks and pantyhose. Guys your socks must match your suit. For black suites, dark socks but not navy or tan. Navy suits, navy or dark brown socks work. For girls, you have to wear pantyhose, even if you wear a pantsuit. Chose a color that is close to your skin color. This is why peep toed shoes are not preferred because pantyhose are a must.
10. Clothes must fit. Make sure your suit fits you and if not alter it! Hem the pants, the jacket, and tailor it so that it fits you well.

The better you look, the better you will feel, and the better you will appear in front of the interviewer. If you have money trouble in finding a suit, check out places like Macy’s who have suits for their Everyday Values program.  Stay tuned for more tips for your interview! Okay go back to twirling around.

Check out part two of Interview This here!

With the rodeo quickly approaching in Houston and already taking place in San Antonio it is key to pull together the cutest rodeo apparel to wrap up the rodeo in San Antone and to kick it off in Houston. It’s time to kick up your boots and get down to it!

For all of you rodeo queens it’s all about a effortless boho meets cowgirl look for a fashionably fun rodeo 2010!

Must:

Turquoise is always a must! It is easy to get carried away with our favorite pieces of turquoise. Keep it simple and don’t over do it. It’s all about layering your outfit with tone on tone pieces and keeping it simple for an effortless look. The turquoise will keep the earthy tones simple but will act as a loud and beautiful piece with your apparel.

It is essential to start with a base piece like a solid color tank top, layer it with something edgy and fun, possibly a long cardigan or vest, play with your look and add dark denim to it and a nice pair of boots.

For all of you girly cowgirls instead of layering with a tank, start with your favorite cotton dress layer it with a fun vest or long cardigan. This is a comfortably effortless look. Play it up with fun boots and rhinestone or turquoise jewelry. Have fun with it but don’t go overboard on all the jewelry. Create an eclectic look by adding two different necklaces to your outfit.

If you plan on going to the rodeo a few times, like every Houstonian does, create several different outfits with a few items out of your wardrobe just by changing out boots, denim, or cardigans to create different looks. Staying penny wise may allow you to buy that extra concert ticket or turkey leg instead of buying extra clothing to rodeo. It pays to pinch pennies!

http://www.abejasboutique.com/
A simple layering piece made boho rodeo.
Styled by Ryan of Abejas boutique in Houston

http://www.abejasboutique.com/detail.aspx?ID=67186

The Green Turquoise Ketoh cuff from Abejas boutique is absolutely lovely and perfect with any rodeo apparel for a touch of turquoise.

Lust:

Miss Me Jeans and Old Gringo boots are a must for the rodeo this year!

Miss Me Jeans have a rodeo chic feel with rhinestones adorned on the back pockets that give a touch of sparkle and shine to your earth tone apparel these jeans will be sure to shine. They are available at Cavender’s Boot City and at Dillard’s ranging in sizes that start at size 25.

Old Gringo boots give a hippie chic rodeo feel and are a perfect touch worn with denim or a dress. My favorite style “Checruda” from Old Gringo instantly spices up rodeo attire giving any outfit a flattering feel that is effortless. Just throw on your boots and your outfit already has a touch of character fit for a rodeo queen!

Abejas has Rocio round tote bags handmade in Argentina. The flowers are hand painted and the bag is absolutely stunning! A quick add on to your apparel before heading to the rodeo to dress up any outfit in a flash!

Quick link to the Rocio tote online: http://www.abejasboutique.com/detail.aspx?ID=67194

Places to shop for rodeo attire:

If you’re over on the south-east side of Houston, Norma’s Country Dreams has a select amount of Miss Me Jeans & Old Gringo boots that are sure to stand out! There were a few different styles available and one pair stood out in my mind called the “Checruda” on the Old Gringo website which are available at Norma’s Country Dreams. For all of you boho fun lovin cowgirls this pair has your name all over it!

http://www.oldgringoboots.com/

If you are anywhere near Kirby, Abejas boutique has neutral rodeo attire and lovely layering pieces that are one of a kind. ‘Ketoh’ cuffs. For a unique rodeo look, stop into Abejas and ask for Ryan, recently featured on CW 39 for Mia’s Style Files.

For boots, jump over to Nordstroms, Cavender’s Boot City, Dillard’s, Abejas Boutique, or Norma’s Country Dreams. If you’re in a hurry to the rodeo after work these are just a few places to quickly grab boots before heading over to Reliant Stadium.

Have a blast at the 2010 Houston Rodeo!! Hope you have a blast creating a rodeo look that will keep you comfortable during the cook off and concerts!

Here at TwentiesLife, our mission is to invigorate and re-invent what it means to be a twenty-something. The transition into one’s twenties is rarely acknowledged and is something of a radical change that should involve transfigurement; a deepened sense of one’s perspective, life goals, and a push for a progressive lifestyle.

One of the most common mistakes that a great number of people make during this transition is sticking to the same monotonous style that haunted them from the decade past. (You would never see a teenager wearing baby booties and a sailor’s outfit, because it isn’t deemed proper for a person of that age and it doesn’t project the best qualities of the person.) The majority of people at this stage in life are in their final stages of schooling and looking forward to some of the following: looking forward to a career, committing to a more meaningful relationship, getting their own life plan in order, and individualizing oneself from the pack.

This typically means seeking out a new sense of self. A metamorphosis into one of societies butterflies. While many mature inwardly, they lack the perception to change externally. (To a lesser extent, it’s like a 40-year-old mom that wears her teenage daughter’s clothes.) Next, we shall talk about the bare-bone essentials, every man should have in his wardrobe.

The Essentials:

Full Sleeve Dress Shirts:

1. 2-3 White Shirts : A white shirt is/can be an any occasion shirt. A classic timeless look that always looks crisp, clean, and fresh.  Can be worn anytime and anywhere.  Being that a white shirt gets dirty pretty easily, it’s always a good idea to have a spare.
2. French Blue:  A French Blue Shirt is one of the only colors that any man can wear and still compliment the man’s complexions. It has become proper to wear at almost any occasion. It adds a little pizzazz to a wardrobe without being ostentatious or brash. It’s has become the contemporary man’s white shirt.
3. Casual Shirt: This shirt is has sole purpose of being the “cool” shirt. It can have anything; vertical stripes, solid, plaid, graphics. Something that bring out the personality of your wardrobe without appearing gaudy. As long as it looks good with dress pants and a sports coat, or a great pair of jeans.

A navy/black/charcoal suit: Read Suit 101:  Your First Suit
A dark pair of jeans: A darker wash blue jean has become the iconic everyday wear attire. It can be dressed up or down, and still look fresh. It has become a staple in modern America.
A pair of black slacks: For those days that men need to be a little bit more formal. A nice pair of black trousers can be used over and over without seeming old and tiring. Look for a slack that is of lighter weight, high twist wool, flat front, and plain bottoms. No heavy fabrics here guys, these aren’t made to look and feel like jeans or khakis.
Black belt and dress shoes: IMPORTANT:  For the contemporary man who wants a clean-cut look, dress shoes and belt must match! Black is versatile.
Black Dress socks: NOT athletic socks! No thick socks here, something light and dressy. You socks are an extension of your pants. The colors MUST match or can be a shade darker! No hyper-pink sock with olive slacks.
Power Tie. A striped tie characterized by diagonal lines that is typically red or burgundy. These types of ties are very versatile when used in a formal atmosphere. Can be worn to interviews, weddings, work, or any formal occasion.
Polo’s (Green, Blue,White) – Polo’s shirt can be worn on those day you want to be casual but still look proper. Go with a classic logo, nothing too extreme. Make sure it’s made out of piqué cotton, has banded arms, and a shallow shirt tail (so it can be worn untucked.)
Khaki Pants – For those days that jeans seem a little too relaxed and black slacks seem to formal. Avoid pleats, tapered cuts, and elastic waists. A darker khaki in a softer cotton fabric can be worn year-round and still seem appropriate.
Leather Wallet: Get rid of the Velcro. Get rid of the external zippers. Get something classic and timeless.
Sneakers
Athletic wear: Should be worn only when you are working out.
“Home” Clothes: More on this at a later time.

Listed above are just the core necessities to a wardrobe, and is always allowed to expand. If you start with these pieces first, you will have an outfit always at your fingertips. No extra thought involved. Look for timeless outfits and you will never have to worry about the new fashion trends that come around.

Did we leave out any wardrobe essentials?  What are the essentials in your closet?