Poolside at the Waldorf Astoria, Orlando

So we headed down to Florida’s sunny central Eastern shores earlier in the week with suitcases bursting with spring wardrobe finds and summer swimsuits. Yes, it is time to start thinking spring—and summer!

Lobby of the Bohemian Hotel

Our hotel was located in the town of Celebration, Florida which was developed by Walt Disney himself to mimic classic, smalltown U.S.A.  The lobby of our hotel at the Bohemian served as a terrific backdrop with its beachy opulence.

Katie at the Bohemian

Day 1: Our model Katie was photographed lounging in the lobby and poolside in the ensembles we assembled from our regional retailers which included Apotheca and Sophistikate in Bethlehem, and BOUTIQUETOGO in Allentown. The looks range from tailored classics with a twist to casually feminine.

Our photographer for this trip was Emily Bleasdale and our fashion stylist was Pia Panaligan—you might recognize their names from our just-hit-the-mailbox February issue and our Man Up! Style Upgrade feature. We can’t wait for you to see the results of this shoot in the pages of our April 2012 issue.

Losing the light; last shot of the day.

Cory-the rescuer of our SUV!

Day 2: Daytona – We took a quick jaunt down to Daytona Beach on Day 2 to do some scouting shots. It was a long day of hair and makeup, working around the wind and sun, and yikes, almost running out of gas! While we did make it to the station in time we were not near the actual gas pump at all, so our photographer’s assistant, Cory, had Emily throw it into neutral and pushed our SUV to the pump. (You just never know what will happen on a photo shoot!)

Emily (left), Pia and our model Josie at our Waldorf shoot: Day 3

Day 3: The Waldorf Astoria – This hotel is located right within the confines of the Walt Disney World Resorts and is incredibly beautiful. Our gracious contact at the hotel, Catherine, made the “gotta-get-up-at-5 am-day” so much easier to deal with by making sure we had everything we needed, including a poolside cabana. This was our backdrop for shooting swimwear provided to us by MIRACLESUIT, a company with roots in the LV. These suits come in a variety of figure-flattering styles and promise to make you look 10 pounds slimmer instantly. Our model, Josie tried on 6 styles—all of them had an air of Hollywood glamour! Look for this feature in our June 2012 issue.

With the wind howling outside our window at this very moment, spring can’t get here soon enough!

Great Pieces for the Season from Sorrelli Jewelry

Just a few minutes west of the Valley, in the small town of Kutztown, you will find the home of Sorrelli Jewelry. Handcrafted from genuine semi-precious stones and high quality Austrian crystals, Sorrelli’s jewelry is easy to get hooked on because each season they surprise us with even more exciting collections. Their latest collections: Electric Blue, Harmony and Running Water—gives us three more reasons to love this local retailer.

Electric Blue

Shades from the sky and ocean were the inspiration for this beautiful blue collection. From clear water blues to dark midnight sky, the Electric Blue collection features an antique silver finish and styles ranging from demure post earrings to chunky bib necklaces. Wear with crisp white ensembles or the all the navy-colored styles trending this season. Blue-eyed beauties: This collection will draw attention to those peepers and make them twinkle.

Sparrow Pendant Necklace, $94.60; Stacked Circular Stud Earring, $26.40; Glittering Multi-Cut Crystal Bracelet, $79.20; Abstract Cluster Ring, $46.20

Harmony

The Harmony collection is ideal for the woman who doesn’t shy away from color and likes baubles in a rainbow range of colors. Set in a Victorian-inspired antique gold finish, Harmony pieces feature an amethyst purple, accented by rich greens, blues, reds and yellows. The mixture of color will brighten up a neutral or accent a punchy pattern, easily creating harmony in your wardrobe. Pieces from this romantic collection are perfect for summer picnics or date night with that someone special. Dark-haired beauties: The antique gold finish and deep color palette will perfectly play off your deep-colored locks.

Glam Crystal Cluster Necklace, $173.80; Circular Stud Earring with Rhinestone Edging, $30.80; Glam Crystal Cluster Bracelet, $103.40; Princess Center Stacked Crystal Ring, $39.60

Running Water

The Running Water collection (seen in this month’s Fashion & Beauty Report) mixes simplicity with classic, artful design. A combination of pastel jewel tones, including white crystal accented by light purples, greens, blues and even a hint of orange, this collection is no doubt inspired by the pristine waters of the area’s lakes and streams. For those subtle sisters who prefer light colors, the pieces in the Running Water collection will flow through your wardrobe of monochromatic neutrals. Fair-haired beauties, the pale colors and antique silver finish make this collection perfect for blondes of all shades.

Modern Facets Bold Crystal Bib Necklace,  $114.40; Multi Crystal Cluster Earring, $57.20; Regal Cabochon Bracelet, $151.80; Irregular Hexagon Crystal Ring, $39.60

Sorrelli | 220 W. Main St. Kutztown | 610.894.9857 | sorrelli.com

One of the biggest teases in life comes from the fashion industry’s mindset of the calendar year. The winter season begins on December 21, but why is it that the second the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve our favorite stores seem to magically transition from the bulky winter knits to the carefree tank tops and white denim? Those of us who are spending winter shoveling our driveways instead of migrating to our second home in Florida find the fashion industry’s calendar impractical, but maybe they are on to something.

Could it be possible that this spring’s floral skirt can, indeed, be worn in the bitter months of February? With our mix and match suggestions, it’s easy to transition seasons and combine winter practicality with spring fantasy to create a look all your own.

Never under-estimate the power of tights
Wearing short spring attire like skirts, shorts and dresses with bare legs gives us chills even thinking about it. Luckily, tights are a warmer and easier way to break out those miniskirts and even look cute under a pair of shorts. Black, gray, patterned, the options are endless but the outcome is the same: a leg-flattering and warm way to break in that spring skirt. We like HUE’s wide selection of opaque tights at Macy’s and London’s cable knit leggings at Step in 4 Mor for some texture.

Find it at:
Macy’s | Lehigh Valley Mall, Whitehall |610.264.8711 | macys.com
Step in 4 Mor |1823 W. Allen St., Allentown | 610.432.1183 | stepin4mor.com

Pack on some bulk
One way to provide some extra warmth is to layer a chunky sweater with a skirt, or add a cardigan over a flowy dress. The differences in texture provide dimension to your outfit without sacrificing the warmth factor.

Find it at:
J Crew | Lehigh Valley Mall, Whitehall | 610.264.3612 | jcrew.com
Sophistikate | 574 Main St., Suite 100, Bethlehem | 610.865.2235 | sophistikatebethlehem.com

Decorate with scarves
Scarves are everyone’s go-to accessory year-round. We can’t live without them during the frosty winter months, and we use them to provide a pop of color to an outfit or for a way to spice up a basic tee effortlessly. With the different textures, colors and patterns, layering up with a scarf is so easy.

Find it at:
Step in 4 Mor |1823 W. Allen St., Allentown | 610.432.1183 | stepin4mor.com
Shuze | 530 Main St., Bethlehem | 610.419.8655 | shopshuze.com

Boots
Nowadays, you can find a pair of boots to complement most any outfit in your closet. From leggings and skinny jeans, to skirts and dresses, boots are a wardrobe transitional staple. Pairing a rugged pair of motorcycle boots or a streamlined pair of riding boots with a delicate dress is one of the hottest trends right now. The higher the boot, the warmer you’ll be! If you’re going sans tights, try wearing knee high socks with your boots for an added layer of comfort.

Find it at:
Bakers | Lehigh Valley Mall, Whitehall | 610.264.8035 | bakersshoes.com
Aerosoles | Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley | 610.797.4615 | aerosoles.com

The Do’s and Don’ts
—From Clotheszing!’s Kathy D’Angola Moses (clotheszing.com)

DO: Invest in a great leather bag in a bold color. A colorful statement purse adds punch to any outfit and will never go out of style.

DON’T: Overload on bright colors. Spring’s pastels and neons are exciting, but too much too soon will never be in fashion.

DO: Embrace the trend by investing in an accessory, like a medallion necklace. Some trends come and go in a blink of a fashion season, so only invest big money on classics you’ll get more wear out of.

DON’T: Max out your credit card by buying high priced spring pieces. Invest in the classics and play around with the more trendy pieces by purchasing at lower priced stores, like Forever21 and H&M.

We discovered the hottest trend for spring, and we can’t wait to share it with you. Is it a handbag? A clever new hairstyle? Maybe an artfully embellished sandal?

Give up yet?

It’s a baby bump!

Females from A-list celebrities to local Valley residents seem to be sporting the bump (and thankfully it has nothing to do with the cast of Jersey Shore). While your grandmother’s maternity wear more closely resembled a circus tent, modern moms are anxious to show off their rounder midsections with snuggly fitted tops and streamlined denim.

Lucky for new moms everywhere, designers took the hint and have responded with an abundance of trendy maternity looks for day, evening, and even black-tie affairs. While paltry maternity sections were once banished to the dark corners of department stores, the mommies have spoken and now entire stores are devoted to maternity fashion.

Always-seems-to-be-pregnant model Heidi Klum just launched Lavish, a line of chic looks for maternity retailer A Pea in the Pod. These perfectly tailored pieces are elegant in their simplicity and versatility. Even if you can’t have Heidi’s nature defying post-baby body, you can look model-fabulous for nine whole months with these stylish and affordable pieces.

You’ll yearn to be pregnant all year long with this breezy animal print tunic top ($98) paired with black leggings ($55).

For a special occasion, no retail establishment tops A Pea in the Pod for awe-worthy looks to make you feel like one hot mama. This silk chiffon social dress with rhinestone detail is an affordable $148.

Hug your bump in a nautical fashion with this navy and white striped side-ruched sweater ($68) paired with dark wash denim Bermuda shorts ($68).

All of the above fashions are available at A Pea in the Pod retail locations or by calling 1.877.apeapod, apeainthepod.com.

Savings behemoth Target has been the go-to spot for frugal fashionistas for quite a while, and luckily their Liz Lange maternity line does not disappoint. A great mix of casual and work wear, Liz Lange designers understand that mama needs to work, too. Opt for simple tanks and tees in neutral colors to wear under a suit for an effortless outfit that’s easy to change up several times per week.

With all these fantastic pieces, we see pregnancy as a great excuse to go shopping, a time when “I have nothing to wear” could for once be a true statement. Is that special glow coming from within, or is it the flush of scoring exquisitely designed maternity looks at amazing prices? We’ll never tell…

As the April issue hits the stands and appears in mailboxes all over the area, one question still remains, “Who’s that girl?”

For those of you who haven’t figure it out yet, our mystery cover girl is…drum roll, please…me! Weird, huh? My two-day fashion shoot went a little something like this:

Back in November, I created this color-blocking concept to focus specifically on spring accessory trends. I envisioned strikingly beautiful pieces on vibrant backgrounds for bright and cheery pops of color.

Before setting out with photographer Lori Smith to collect bags and bags filled with goodies, she asked if I was interested in doing a little leg and hand modeling. Sure, why not? I thought. No one will know it’s me.

It was settled. We would incorporate a few limb shots to mix up the overall appearance. On our first day of shooting, we labored over the details of each set up to successfully complete three of the six shots. On day two, once I arrived at Lori’s studio, she asked if she could stick me in front of the camera for three beauty shots.

AHHH! What? Me? I work for the magazine, remember. Suddenly, I was whisked away and found myself sitting in a chair at Enzo Giarratana European Concept Salon having my hair sprayed and straightened into sections of ribbon-like pieces that were eventually pinned to create the pretty chignon-inspired ‘do. Back to Lori’s house, and I was having my makeup done while I painted my fingernails. I hardly even had a chance to decline the offer!

We did the green shot first then flew right back upstairs to do a quick makeup change as I, again, painted my nails to match the turquoise backdrop. A few shots here and a few shots there, and we were on to the purple page. Twelve hours later and we were finally finished shooting for the day, because Lori and I decided to shoot stills of each model shot just in case.

There ya have it. I guess our accidental photo shoot worked out! And now you know the behind-the-scenes story of our April cover girl.

 

A Lady-Like Wedge
Gecko Traders recycled rice and feed clutch with handle, $22, Home & Planet; (2) Green square stack bangles, $9 each; (2) Green clear Lucite bangles, $12 each; Green and yellow rose bracelet, $24, all Francesca’s Collections; Poetic Licence Jetsetter, $98, STEP in 4 MOR

The Turquoise Appeal
Ruched textured clutch, $28, Francesca’s Collections; Alexis Bittar 4-strand necklace, $525; Alexis Bittar gold and turquoise hinge cuff, $325; Yosca gold and turquoise cuff, $285; all BOUTIQUETOGO; Carlos by Carlos Santana Marvel, $69, Macy’s

Come Ride with Me!
All Black Hot News flat, $98, Shuze; The News recycled newspaper clutch with gold trim, $44; Gecko Traders recycled rice and feed clutch with handle, $22, both Home & Planet. Vintage Huffy cruiser courtesy Jay Frankett, Bethlehem.

Eco-Friendly Options
Gecko Traders small recycled rice & feed clutches, $22 for set of 3; (2) DZINZ recycled paper stretch bangle, $17 each; (3) Recycled skateboard bangles, $38 each; The News recycled newspaper clutch with gold trim, $44; Gecko Traders recycled rice and feed clutch with handle, $22, all Home & Planet; All Black Hot News flat, $98, Shuze

Take off those gloves, ladies, because winter is almost over! If your hands are looking less than fabulous, fear not. We have compiled the best tricks to transform your hands from dry and damaged to smooth and sleek before springs arrives.

In the age of saving money, do it yourself manicures have skyrocketed in popularity. The daunting reality, however, is that manicure tool kits are often as complicated as surgical instrument trays. The good news is that you only need a few essential items for a professional quality at home manicure.

• Nail clipper – This no frills, staple item is the best way to trim and prepare nails for their pampering. Check out any beauty supply or drugstore for a variety of colors, sizes, and styles. Pink leopard print could make this routine process a bit more appealing.
• Nail file – Traditionally, nail files come in the form of emery boards, which need to be replaced frequently. Metal files are more durable and therefore have a longer life span. Some new nail file trends include glass, ceramic, porcelain, or even crystal files. How glamorous!• Buffers – These come in all shapes and sizes and are essential for smooth polish application.
• Cuticle oil – True professionals know that the secret to a great manicure starts with the cuticles. Cuticle scissors come with most manicure kits, but we recommend that you leave the scissors wielding to a pro and use a cuticle oil, such as Sephora Brand Healing Eucalyptus Cuticle Oil ($12). Once softened, cuticles can be pushed back easily with a cuticle pusher. Try Studio 35 Beauty Cuticle Pusher ($2.99), available at Walgreens.
• Nail polish remover – Be sure to remove old polish completely before applying a new color.

And while we’re on the subject of nail polish remover, what is the difference between acetone and non-acetone? Quite simply, acetone is faster. Acetone, an organic substance that can also be found in paint thinner, removes polish efficiently, but may also dry out nail beds and strip them of essential oils. Non-acetone remover will take a bit longer to work with, but since it’s a diluted substance, it’s gentler on your nails.

Style mavens will be sporting nude and natural nails for spring. “The new OPI collection has a lot of lilacs, light pinks, and neutrals” says Dana of Prizms Salon and Day Spa in Bethlehem, “but you can never go wrong with the classic French manicure.” Going natural demands well moisturized hands and nails. Try keeping a mini hand moisturizer in your bag or on your desk for periodical applications throughout the day. We love Bliss High Intensity Hand Cream ($18). On a budget? Try Vaseline Intensive Care Healthy Hand & Nail Conditioning Lotion ($4.79). Dana also recommends using OPI Papaya Pineapple Scrub ($14) for some serious softening. “This scrub leaves hands incredibly smooth,” she raves.

Now your nail polish is off, your hands are softened, and you’re ready to start. But wait! Winter’s dark nail polish hues have left your nails yucky yellow! First, to avoid this problem in the future, always apply a basecoat prior to applying any dark polish. If the damage is done, there are several remedies for this situation. We have seen tips that range from soaking nails in anything from lemon juice to dissolved denture tablets. The best at home remedy, however, can be made from some things you may already have in the cupboard:

1. Mix 1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide with 2 ½ tablespoons of baking soda (these items combined will form a paste)
2. Apply to nails for 3 to 4 minutes
3. Rinse with warm water

If you don’t feel like playing chemist, try Sally Hansen InstaBrite Nail Whitener ($5.95), available at your local drugstore.

At last, it’s time for the polish. For the perfect spring neutral, try Revlon Nail Enamel in Sheer Nude ($5). Complete your flawless manicure with the following easy steps:

1. Remove old polish.
2. File nails to desired shape. The trend for spring is short, slightly squared nails that are flat across the top with rounded corners.
3. Buff nails with buffer.
4. Soak in soapy water for a few minutes to soften cuticles.
5. Apply cuticle oil and push back cuticles
6. Moisturize.
7. Wipe excess lotion from nails.
8. Apply a base coat. Let dry for one minute.
9. Apply two coats of polish. Be sure to apply polish by starting on the side of the nail, covering the entire nail in three easy strokes.
10. Apply a topcoat.

Are your nails brittle or prone to breaking? Vitamin supplements are all the rage for a variety of purposes, and nail improvement is no exception. While a range of options is available, we advise you to stick with a classic – Biotin, the “hair, skin, and nail” pill. It can be easily found at any drug store and dramatically improves the strength and length of your nails.

And finally, if you have no time for a full manicure, Sephora sells an awesome Nail Whitening Pencil ($4). Simply sweep this little tool under your nail tips for instant brightening. The pencil cap is slanted to use as a cuticle pusher on the go. Brilliant!

Headbands are the accessory-essential this spring. Dive in early with styles that feature florals, feathers, and even edgy looks like bold, exposed zippers. Headbands, head wraps, and hair accessories can add just the right touch to any outfit adding glamour, sophistication, or pizzazz, depending on which style you choose.

Capture the essence of Valentine’s Day with the warm, romantic feel of a carnation pink and fuchsia lily hairpin. A bit of fun and whimsy is added with the bead and curled wire in the center. Add it to a sexy up-do or to pull back the sides of your hair in a soft style.

Wrap things up with a tea rose pink, hot pink, and deep purple open flower hair band. The soft elastic allows you to wear it as a headband with zero pressure added to your scalp or even wrap it around a perky ponytail for fun. This is a great versatile accessory that works with every hair color.

Absolutely elegant, a vintage rose-colored flower is perfect for an evening on the town.  With its pin perfectly positioned you simply slide it in your hair and the flawless flower is good to go. The gorgeous metallic beadwork in the center provides a hint of understated elegance.

The accessories above are available at Eskandalo and Loose Threads or by contacting LOLY DESIGNS, 484.554.0281, Lolymosaics@yahoo.com.

Taking a step in an edgier direction, this headband features a gold exposed zipper detail. Choose this accessory if you choose to exude a confident vibe with a bit of shine.

This “Scorsese-red” headband couldn’t be more perfect for February. The woven design on the side looks stunning no matter what shade your hair is. It also adds some vintage flair with its simplistic design. Dress up a comfy pair of jeans and cute t-shirt, with this unique accessory.

Both of these handmade headbands are available at STEP in 4 MOR, located at 1823 Allen St., Allentown, 610.432.1183.