The British Are Coming!

The British invasion is everywhere. Due to the catchy music that's making it big in America,  their hilarious talk shows (yes, I've stooped that low), and the funky fashion trends-- I'm truly headed for an identity crisis. I didn't realize how strong the Brits were influencing me until I found myself complaining in the NYC Topshop how the London store was clearly superior. While I still stand by this point, it was a little ridiculous to say considering I've never been to the London store. I can admit I've taken my London respect a little too far but I still wanted to share some England fashion that I'm loving! It's not a new groundbreaking fact that Europe is more fashionable, but who knew they were responsible for more than just the fashion icon that is Victoria Beckham?!

Topshop

First thing is first! I've been aware of Topshop for a while but the actual worship only kicked in recently. The store has a vibrant vibe where you really can create any look you want depending on which pieces you put together. That's what's so great about Topshop, it's full of potential fashion risks and creativity. Because of it's loud prints and styles, the shop may not be for everybody but I personally love it for that reason. These type of clothes allow the everyday girl to experiment for affordable prices. Only warning with Topshop, the clothing runs pretty small and a lot of the tops are midriff baring. If you really love the top but are unsure about the style, throw a solid tank top underneath a peplum top. Otherwise, be careful with the sizes. 

(Check out the July 2012 Hitlist to see what's currently hot at Topshop)

Cheryl Cole

 

I guess she's kind of the Britney Spears for the Brits?! Cheryl completely owns the flashy pop-star appearance that fans love to see. Let's be honest, nothing catches the media's attention more than a charismatic beautiful star. With her different hairstyles, energy lifting choreography, and colorful music videos, Cheryl Cole is the ultimate muse in England.

Cher Lloyd

Despite her comparisons to Cheryl Cole, Cher's style differs a lot. For one, the nineteen year old singer is much more rough around the edges. While she's had her fair share of fashion no-no's, Cher and her fashion have matured quite well. Cher brings a bit of rocker chic with her crop tops and fancy fedoras. 

"British fashion is self confident and fearless. It refuses to bow to commerce, thus generating a constant flow of new ideas whilst drawing in British heritage."
-Alexander McQueen

How To...Color Pop!

As someone who likes wearing dark colors a little too much(it's chic and fierce okay!), I love that summertime forces a major revamp in the wardrobe. While bright colors and florals are nothing new for the season change, summer 2012 is offering a much more diverse and bold way to play with colors. Here are some easy, fun ways to color pop while barely digging into your pockets...

Colored Hair

What better way to enjoy the carefree attitude of summer than sporting some colored hair tips to go with your tan! It can be tricky to do this if you're in professional environments pretty frequently so stick to the basics. If you have dark hair, stick with dark colors, like purple. If you have light hair, try a lighter shade like pink. Personally, I have an auburn hair color so I went with a fuchsia color. I also decided to go subtle and make my color pop a single hair extension, instead of using the dye!

Color Block/Pattern Mixing

It's a big style trend and not as difficult as you may think to pull off! All you need to do is stack up on one or two colored style pants( I got mine at Express), and experiment with different color shirts you have. Again, stick with your basic matching color rules- red bottoms with pink tops or blue bottoms with greenish/aqua tone tops. Color blocking with blazers is also a fab way to strut into your workplace while being stylish but not too over the top. Throw in some patterns like Cheryl Cole, above, did and you're even one step further! (Definitely recommend Kate Spade for color and pattern inspirations!)

Bright Nails

If you're still feeling too shy to make big splashes of color, at least play up your nails! Essie, for instance, has fab colors like these. Don't just stop after applying a simple neon color. Go for the classic different colored ring finger, which has become a huge hit this year! Self done bold nail polish or even manicured gel nails are a great summer investment.

Find your color this summer and have fun with it! As long as you find a basic match between a couple(or a few!) colors, you're sure to look amazing while rocking the color popping.