STRESS LESS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year” or so Andy Williams would have us believe in that much loved Christmas carol, at least it is supposed to be, so what simple things can we do to make sure the sentiments from this legendary Christmas song actually become our reality? I want to experience Christmas this year without all of the frantic stress and tension that so often come along with this holiday and rob me of the “spirit of the season” leave me feeling jaded instead of jolly. We assembled some tips for reducing stress that don’t require any unrealistic commitments of your time, which there already is not enough of, but rather can be incorporated into the to do list you already have attached to your schedule.

1. Take Time For A Simple Act Of Kindness

While you are rushing around finishing up last minute details, stop and open a door for someone,  bring back coffee for a co-worker or spouse, let someone who looks “really stressed” go ahead of you in line. These are simple things that studies show actually reduce your stress level.

2. Take In The Sights, Sounds and Smells Of The Season

Instead of stressing out over getting that last parking spot close to the door, intentionally park far away; use this as an opportunity to get some fresh air and exercise, relish the invigoration of the crisp winter air as it touches your cheeks, listen to the enchanting sound of the salvation army santa’s bells or christmas music surrounding you, observe the beauty of the decorated lampposts and sparkling lights. Breathe in the smell of fresh pine trees as you pass by the Christmas tree lots. Being mindful of and enjoying your surroundings immediately lowers your blood pressure and reduces stress.

3. Wrap It Up

Make gift wrapping an event. Plan a movie excursion for hubby and kids, make yourself your favorite beverage; hot chocolate, tea, coffee with a little baileys maybe, put on your favorite holiday music, sit by the fire, have all of your wrapping tools out and organized and enjoy wrapping each gift with attention to detail. This time to focus on one task will put your mind at rest and the tension of the day will just melt away.

4. Take Note

Pick a handful of people who have had a special impact on your life this year and take a few minutes at the beginning or end of your day to actually write them a personal thank you note/Christmas Greeting expressing how they blessed your life in 2016. Expressing gratitude makes you feel mentally stronger and reduces frustration and irritability.

5. Establish New Traditions That Suit Your Lifestyle

Most of the stress we experience in our lives is tied into expectations we are striving to live up to. A belief that events SHOULD be executed in a certain way. Forget the should surrounding where you should go, what you should do, how you should celebrate, who you should get a gift for; lose the expectations you normally place on yourself and instead be open to establishing new traditions that fit into the lifestyle of you and your family.  This time of year is all about enjoying and sharing with the ones we love; instead of the full Christmas dinner perhaps a tapas style presentation of a few simple hot hor d’oueves & cocktails or soup and salad bar would be just as fun and give everyone a chance to mill around visit and enjoy one another instead of being relegated to an assigned seat at the table. Agree to just one gift per person, draw names. Decorate a tree outside in the yard with lights and ornaments instead of making a mess inside. Celebrate with different parts of the family different days or host an open house where people can drop by whenever they have time. Participate in a santa run for charity which will eliminate any arguments over whose house you have to visit at what time.

Remember to live in the moment. Don’t miss the magic of the season, embrace the additional to do’s and events it added to your schedule as a welcome change, step out of the mundane for awhile, find that spark of childhood wonder where the world is full of hope, excitement, and all things good.

 

FIND YOUR OWN SUMMER WEDDING INSPIRED STYLE

Let the Summer wedding Season begin! Don’t let the hot seasonal weather get you down. Get our best wedding party trend ideas and style tips hot off the runways for Summer 2016. Don’t have a Summer wedding planned? You can still get in on the Season’s romantic designs, or even take our advice for your next outdoor summer garden party.

GARDEN WEDDING

There’s nothing quite as lovely as a romantic garden wedding. With Summer’s florals out in full bloom, nature provides the perfect backdrop to the celebratory day. If the weather turns hot, be sure to dress accordingly in a flowing whimsical maxi or a even butterfly print palazzo pants. Accessorize with strappy sandals and dainty jewelry, and keep makeup to a minimum for a light, fresh- faced look.

You can’t go wrong with a classic vintage “A line” silhouette, flattering on any body type with a tight waistline and a full skirt. Add a pretty ruffled petticoat underneath for true 50’s flare.

Our favorite “A line” dress options:
“Keira” Blue Lace and Ponte A Line Dress
“Cinderella” Tank Dress
“Jayleen” Ivory Lace A Line Dress

Other favorite garden wedding dresses we like are the chic sheath dress, accentuating a tiny waist and narrow hips, or a flowy chiffon skirted dress, guaranteed to keep you feeling fresh and cool all day long.

Other Sheath Dress Options:
“Spring Into Fashion” Fuchsia Floral Sheath Dress
“Alondra” Neoprene Sheath Dress
“Magdalena”Pink Stretch Sheath Dress

Whichever dress style you decide on, be sure to accessorize in style with a pretty yet simple pastel envelope clutch holding all your necessities. Pull hair back with your favorite fresh cut flowers from the garden and you are sure to stay smelling “sweet as a rose” from morning to evening.

BEACH WEDDING

Nothing says “summer” quite like a romantic beach wedding. Since the weather can be unpredictable, be sure to include sunscreen for day and a light wrap by night.

Summer Wedding Cover-ups we like:
“Azaria” Lace Trimmed Kimono
“Polina” Ivory Swing Cardigan
“Daisy” Lace Poncho

You can’t go wrong in a flowy maxi dress, perfectly paired with your favorite embellished sandals.

Other maxi styles we like for a beach wedding:
“Maria” Ivory White Split Lace Dress
“Sonnie” Light Pink Strapless Maxi Dress

Stay cool while looking lovely in a short lace dress accessorized with a simple clutch and gold flats for perfect all day comfort.

Other short lace dresses to consider:
“Treva” Ivory White Lace Tank Dress
“Prisca” Silk Chiffon Lace Dress
“Lacy Afternoon” Coral Lace Dress

RUSTIC RANCH WEDDING

Kick up your heels and get ready for a rootin’, tootin’ good time at a rustic ranch style wedding. At untraditional weddings, no sense to play by all the rules. Get creative and join in the fun of the theme.

Don your favorite flowing mixed print dress and accessorize with your favorite cowboy styled boots and western jewelry.

Our other favorite printed summer maxi dresses to choose from:
“Brea” Bright Yellow High Low Chiffon Maxi
“Jules” Printed Drop Waist Maxi Dress
“Janis” Teal Crepe De Chine Dress

Or, grab your favorite little white lace dress and tie a pretty fringed scarf around your neck for classic “cowboy” style.

Other Lovely Lace “Ranch Wedding” Options to enjoy:
“Eda” Long Sleeve White Lace Dress
“Katrina” Embroidered Lace Mesh Dress
“Ready to Glow” Off the Shoulder Ivory Lace Dress

DESTINATION WEDDING

Whether staying at a castle in France, chilling in the Virgin Islands, or scoping the Alps, destination weddings are a great excuse to pack up for a quick little Summer vacation. Pay attention to the country’s local climate and pack accordingly.

For your European destination, think classy and chic. Keep it crisp and clean with a fitted sheath dress paired with classic pumps, girly hats, and a simple string of pearls.

We like these “European” styled outfits:
“Spring Into Fashion” Floral Sheath Dress
“Morgan” White Long Sleeve Knit Dress
“Bolero” Ivory Fitted Jacket

For your tropical destination, include a  “Cabana” print maxi dress as well as your favorite swimwear. After the wedding festivities are over, you’ll have time to frolic in the white sandy beaches and crystal blue ocean.

“Tropical” Wedding Destination outfits to pack:
“Time To Turn Heads” Teal Drop Waist Maxi Dress
“Cabana Botanical Bliss” Coral Floral Jersey Maxi Dress
“Tropical Punch” Silk Cotton Shirtdress

For your Alpine wedding destination, you can still wear your same flowy chiffon maxi dress. Instead of your sandals, pair with open toed ankle booties to hike the trails to your party event. Don’t forget to pack a Summer jacket to keep warm against the chilly Summer nights in the mountains.

Favorite “Alpine” Summer jackets to include:
“Deani” Ivory Knit Lace Jacket
“Vacation Time” Blue Knit Cardigan
“Chain Reaction” White Washed Silk Jacket

TRADITIONAL CHURCH WEDDING

Lastly, many brides today still choose to embrace the traditions of old and opt for a classic church wedding and reception. In direct contrast to the Beach, Ranch, or wedding, be sure to understand the proper dress codes and formalities that come with this type of wedding.

Classic church weddings are a bit more formal than other weddings. Some even require “Black Tie” only. Be sure to consider this while choosing your best wedding outfit. Go classic cool in an embroidered lace skirt and flowy blouse, paired with nude heels to elongate your legs and a simple leather clutch.

Other “Proper” Church Wedding Options:
“Corra” A Line Ivory Lace Midi Skirt
“Kenley” Black Lace Pencil Skirt With Half Slip
“Timeless” Gray Floral Lace Pencil Skirt
“Crepe de Chine” Silk Button Down Blouse

And finally, no matter which wedding you go to this Summer, a “little black dress” will ALWAYS be fashionable. Spruce up your look for Summer with bright accessories and shiny gold jewelry to enhance your style.

Our favorite “LBDs”:
“Treva” Black Lace Crochet Gauze Dress
“Sweet” Black Silk Washed Ruffled Sundress
“Keira” A Line Lace Dress

Whichever wedding you plan to attend this Summer, you are sure to have fun with our top fashion picks. And even if you don’t have a wedding or reception planned in the near future, you can still take our advice for your next Summer dinner party or outdoor event.

We here at POSH AT PLAY want you to remember to
Be You, Be Fashionable, and ALWAYS Be Feminine!

 

GREASE IS THE WORD: FLASHBACK TO FIFTIES STYLE

Grease is STILL the word. Even if you didn’t catch FOX’s “Grease Live” last Sunday, you can still be inspired by one of this Season’s most popular throwback trends. From Louis Vitton’s “pink ladies” jackets to Marc Jacobs’ varsity-inspired coats to Oscar de la Renta’s pastel A-line skirts, designers this year are paying homage to the time period beloved by many. So what are you waiting for? Get “hopelessly devoted” to your favorite 50’s style trends updated for a new generation while still maintaining the nostalgia of the time period. Turn on the movie soundtrack or pop in a little Elvis, peruse our favorite finds, and pick one or all that’ll keep you “summer lovin'” all year long.

T-BIRDS LEATHER

If you have a little rebel in you, then you will relate to the story’s favorite “bad boy” Danny Zucko and the T-Bird gang. The great thing about this look is it’s simple yet sophisticated, and can easily be dressed up or down with the right accessories. Start with a pair of black faux leather leggings from Hale Bob, your favorite comfy white Tee, and a cool black leather biker jacket from Topshop. On casual days, pair your look with classic Converse sneakers updated for 2016 with a wedge heel high top or simple velvet ballerina flats from Sam Edelman. For more formal events, accessorize your outfit with Vince Camuto’s asymmetrical heeled booties or Michael Kors’ kitten heel pumps, a popular style from the 1950’s. Complete your silhouette with retro cat eye sunglasses from BCBGMAXAZRIA and a box purse from Heather Offord. You could also update the look by substituting the predictable leather jacket with Liberty Garden’s faux leather long sleeve shirt with ruffles for a feminine touch. Everyday or special occasion, you can’t go wrong with a black leather outfit this Spring.

PINK LADIES’ DENIM & LEATHER

Strut your style with ease this Season in a chic pairing of denim and leather a la the Pink Ladies. Grab the 50’s favorite pant silhouette and accessorize with a simple Tee, leather jacket, and cute ballerina flats. We like the dark blue super skinny jeans from Hudson or the Thompson cropped skinny jeans from Citizen’s of Humanity. If you prefer color, go with Citizen of Humanity’s sea green skinnies, Hudson Jeans’ marsala or white leopard from Joe’s Jeans. No matter which color combo you choose, complete your look with Liberty Garden’s comfy loose ivory T shirt, Michael Kors’ black leather jacket, and leopard print ballerina flats from Salvatore Ferragamo. You can still wear your skinnies to dressier events by pairing with Liberty Garden’s tailored ivory button down and swapping the flats for classic black pumps from French Connection or Vince Camuto’s “Frenchie” ankle strap sandals. “Rule the school” this Spring in your very own chic Pink Ladies style.

SANDY’S A LINE SILHOUETTE

With Springtime nearly upon us, now is the perfect time to try out this year’s pretty pastel pinks, blues, yellows, and greens. And what better way to usher in the Season than with a vintage A line shaped skirt or dress just like good girl Sandy. Update the 50’s styled skirt by adding trendy modern accessories like chunky booties or wedge heels and a crop top or fitted bodysuit. Segue from chilly winter into Spring’s warmth in Vince Camuto’s sea green faux suede A line skirt paired with a frilly leopard print top from Nanette Lepore or sleek black lace bodysuit from Hale Bob. Curl your locks and accessorize with ankle strap pumps NEW from the Kendall + Kylie collection, an elegant string of pearls from MyHabit, a studded leather clutch from Diane von Furstenberg and you are ready to hit the drive-in. For more formal affairs, sweep your hair into a high pony and don Hale Bob’s bright blue A line  or stick to basic black in the sleeveless color block dress topped with Free People’s cozy faux fur stole. “Hand jive” your way through the upcoming Season in a flattering A line silhouette perfect for any body type.

RIZZO’S HIGH WAISTED SHORT SHORTS

If girly Sandy isn’t quite you, play with the boys this Spring in high waisted short shorts just like bad girl Rizzo. No matter what body shape you have, the high waisted silhouette is perfect for slimming your waistline, lengthening your legs, and providing the perfect combination of cool yet classy. Start with AC Collection’s deep blue high waisted stretch denim shorts paired with Lulu’s teal backless sweater or a black crochet silk cotton halter from Hale Bob for sunnier Spring days. Finish off your vintage 50’s look with a colorful scarf tied around your hair, Jimmy Choo crochet wedges, and a swipe of red lipstick from MAC. Carry your short shorts into the evening hours by topping with a frilly faux leather tank from Liberty Garden, cherry red peep toes pumps from Jessica Simpson, and Hale Bob’s blue rayon knit cardigan if it turns chilly. Casual or dressy, you’ll stay cool and slender in your own pair of high waisted shorts this Season.

VARSITY JACKETS

We can’t leave out the athletic teams that Danny joins in order to impress his love Sandy. From G-Star RAW to Marc Jacobs, designers are bringing back the 1950’s iconic coat for Spring and Summer 2016. Jump on the style trend this Season and pair with anything from your black leggings on the way to the gym to your denim mini to your maxi skirt for a evening on the town. Start with Opening Ceremony’s black and white varsity style jacket  over Hale Bob’s black cargo leggings , Liberty Garden’s gray draping sweatshirt, and Nike’s NEW running sneaker. Swap your leggings and shoes for a denim mini from Mother  or AC Collection’s faded black pencil skirt and Topshop’s NEW black booties for lunch with the girls. Segue into the evening hours by accessorizing your varsity jacket with a blouse, Hale Bob’s black studded high low skirt, and ankle strap “Patti” heels from Sam Edelman. This season take Principal McGee’s advice:  “if you can’t be an athlete, be an athletic supporter.”

Whether you’re a “Sandy” or a “Pink Lady,” a “T Bird” or a “Rydell Ranger,” there’s a throwback fifties style you can try this Season.  You’re only a click away from shopping some of your favorite Grease-inspired outfits, from A line dresses to skinny jeans to high waisted shorts. Sure to keep you “rockin’ around the clock,” get to shopping the 50’s fashions today.

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