Style Guide: How to Wear the Colors of 2016, Rose Quartz & Serenity

Trying to wear the new colors of the year - rose quartz and serenity - when you're so used to wearing nothing but dark colors? No worries when you are a true fashionista, it is not impossible, it is an awesome chance to show off your skills!

Please do not start panicking because no one ever said you have to wear the color head-to-toe. If your closet, like most closets, mainly consists of white, grey, and black, mixed with a slight hint of navy or burgundy then, don’t worry - there is hope.

Ever heard the word accessory? They were made for a reason. Just think of that nice cozy grey sweater sitting in your closet right now. Why not run out to get a rose quartz beanie or scarf?  Is there a flattering black dress that you always feel good in? Well, accessorize with a serenity color necklace to update the outfit!  Continue like this, and thinking small could lead to a huge impact on your outfit of the day.

Here at Winky Designs, we have our super fun water-resistant Slapwatches. Did you know that the slap watch faces and slap band straps are all interchangeable? Our Ice Blue Strap is a match for the cool Serenity shade. The best part is, once the trend is over, you can always change the strap to wear another stand-out color like yellow and purple, or stick with basics like white and black!

Now if you are feeling like you need a bigger change, consider adding some rose quartz and serenity to your hair. Rainbow hair is very up and coming these days! These colors complement each other very nicely and with the right attitude and style can be the best way to showcase your fashion abilities in adding some color to your wardrobe.

Some advice to remember: while wanting to stay trendy, always remember that as fun as they are it is always better to take inspiration and then make it your own. Now that you’re more comfortable with adding small splashes of color, like rose quartz and serenity, try adding prints. Knowing how to mix colors and prints together still show your personality in your wardrobe and also keep your fashion senses from getting dull. Have fun experimenting!

Comment below on how you would like to add the colors of the year to your wardrobe!

Top 10 Closet Essentials

Wondering why your closet feels so empty even when it's stocked full of clothes? Why does it feel like something is missing?

Well, the answer is simple that it may just be missing something! There are a few items that every fashion-forward woman needs in her closet. Here are our top 10!

1) A Form-Fitting Blazer.  A classic, good-fitting blazer is necessary in your closet and can be more versatile than you think. Aside for pairing it with the usual career attire, you'll be able to have some fun and give a casual outfit some class. You would be surprised what throwing a blazer over a pair of shorts and t-shirt can do to an outfit!

H&M Cotton Blazer

2) The Perfect Little Black Dress. LBD, of course, is something that has been heard for ages, but what needs to be known about this dress is that it doesn't actually need to be black! That's right, ladies! Go ahead and feel free to choose another color, keeping in mind what works best with your skin tone.  This dress has to give your confidence a boost once you throw it on! I promise I am not talking about some mystical, magical dress that does not exist because there is one out there waiting for you!

3) A Good Pair of Jeans. While something as simple as jeans might already be hanging in your closet, they still might not be the right pair. Jeans are no good if they are too big or too small, even if it is just by one size. Ladies, it's time to take note that if jeans are big, then your butt will look awful, and if they are too tight, then those unwanted muffin-tops will say "hey!!". So take a look at your jeans, and if they are not right, then there is no shame in running for a better pair because you will not regret it later.

Express Mid Rise Performance Stretch Legging

4) Versatile Pumps. A pair of black or nude heels are an absolute MUST for your closet. These two colors are neutral colors that will go with any outfit. The best thing about heels is that they help dress up an outfit without having to put any extra effort, and they make your legs look like they'll go on for days!

Vince Camuto Peep Toe Platform

5) A Fitting Pair of Trousers. One might not be able to find a magical pair of trousers that fits perfectly so, so don't be scared to take it to take it to a tailor and have it adjusted. Once they are tailored, then it would be like magic because they will fit just for you!

Express Studio Stretch Barely Boot Editor Pant

6) A Supportive Bra. A good bra does not mean it has to be pretty and lacey, but rather, give you the support you need! It's surprising how many women wear the wrong size bra, and we recommend everyone stop by their local bra shop or Victoria's Secret to find out their own size. The girls there are professional trained to take care of you and trust, there will be a difference in not only the way your outfits look, but a boost in confidence as well!

Victoria's Secret Perfect Shape Bra

7) A Comfortable Shoe. Depending on your style, this could either be a ballet flat or a pair of Converse, or anything in between! Do not feel the need to always carry around 3-inch heels - all the more power to you if you can handle wearing heels all the time. Since most of us are working ladies, you'll need a reliable way to get from Point A to Point B. Don't underestimate the power of a comfortable shoe!

Timeless Chuck Taylor Converse

8) A Flattering Skirt. Not going to lie - the type of skirt depends on your body type. Most of the time, many can wear an A-Line skirt for a more flattering look. However, some do prefer the curve-defining pencil skirt, or a mini-skirt to show off them legs! Trying on a variety of different styles of skirts is encouraged to find the one that works the best for your shape.  Note the length in the skirts because this will make a difference. To stay classy and conservative, we recommend a hemline around the knee, give or take an inch or two.

Express A-Line patterned skirt

9) A Statement Purse. The type of bag being used will make a difference. Make sure your bag is giving the same statement as your outfit. A good choice that can be versatile is a cross-body bag. The strap makes it easy to hang over the shoulder or put-across, so one can be hands-free! Find a cross-body bag that also has an option to take off the strap, so you could wear it as a regular handbag or a clutch.

Winky Designs Envelope Clutch with removable strap.

10) The most important items - accessories. Accessories can define a whole outfit and pull it all together. Whether you choose to wear any or not, they do affect your look-of-the-day. Sometimes, even the cutest outfit may be incomplete without a pair of earrings, bracelet or even a good shade of lipstick.  We love dainty jewelry that can go with all different looks any day of the week.

Winky Designs stackable, dainty rings, in 18K gold, silver and rose gold.

So take a look and reassess your closet! Do you have all the essentials? Once you shop for what is missing, maybe you won't always think "I don't have anything to wear!".  A special tip from a friend is to donate anything that doesn't fit properly because it just isn't doing anyone any good.  Take note of the body you have and embrace it, and you'll never have a bad outfit day again!

Catching Up With Style Blogger Julia Shutenko

We stumbled upon Julia’s blog last year and oh, are we so glad we did! Julia has the uncanny ability to mix high end designer labels with up and coming labels all the while making it look FAB-U-LOUS *snap snap*. This London-based blogger even has quite the impressive resume with internships under her belt at Conde Nast and Hearst publications as well as previous positions at Elle UK Magazine. We wanted to take a moment from her very busy schedule to ask her a few questions and get some fun girl talk in. Fashionistas, take heart! Julia also shares some tips on how to break into the fashion industry….

WINKY DESIGNS: How would you describe your style?

JULIA SHUTENKO: My style depends on my mood. One day I want to feel feminine and wear pencil skirts and next morning I put on my biker boots and boyfriend jeans. I am probably never too girly and whenever I wear a cute dress I pair it with edgier accessories, oversized coat and messy ponytail. I like to play with my looks and am opened to new experiments with my outfits. If I had to give my style a name it would be casual chic.

W.D.: Who’s your biggest style inspiration?

J.S.: I don’t have just one style icon and tend to seek inspiration from the variety of sources. Probably the most of it comes from street style photos and other fashion bloggers. I can spend hours browsing through Pinterest mood boards in search of some new ideas. I love looking at models and celebrities off duty looks and admire Jessica Alba’s effortlessly cool style.

W.D.: You have some pretty amazing pieces in your wardrobe (J’ADORE)! Do any have a really great story behind them? Which one do you consider your absolute fav?

J.S.: Ah, thank you! An item that holds the most memories for me is the pair of Lanvin heels that I found during my trip to New York. Do you know the feeling when you think that something was meant to be? That’s how we found each other. I was exploring New York’s SOHO area and stumbled upon a sample sale in one of the stores. And there they were, just one pair and just one available size that fit me perfectly. That was such a Cinderella moment!

ERMAGOSH, we LOOOVE the Lanvin heels too! 

W.D.: We loved how you rocked our Words of Wisdom DREAM watch. What dream do you personally have for yourself this year?

J.S.: I love that watch and every time I look at it I feel inspired. This year I have set several goals that I would like to achieve with my blog and am focusing all my energy on that. Dreams are so important in life, they are the biggest motivators that help you move forward. I wouldn't be where I am right now if I wasn't dreaming. Dream on, guys!

Read that post here!

W.D.: You have such a great resume with interning and working in the fashion industry. Can you give our younger style savvy readers any advice in pursuing a career in fashion?

J.S.: You have to be prepared to work very hard, be determined, patient and never lose hope. The fashion industry is tough and highly competitive and you need to be your best self in order to succeed. Be prepared to start from interning and always be passionate about what you are doing. Trust me, give it some time and people will notice you and all your efforts will pay off!

Thanks Julia for being so sweet and encouraging us to chase our dreams! We wish you all the best!

Make sure to stay in touch with Julia Shutenko:

Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Bloglovin | Pinterest | Instagram

Brand Marketing and 5 Great Tips on How to Work With Bloggers and Small Brands

“My name is Vanessa and I'm the person stalking you." I imagine myself uttering these words in shame at the Bloggers Anonymous weekly meetings where marketing professionals gather around a room with a coffee in hand recounting the ways we tirelessly stalk bloggers. Blogging is the hottest way for brands to get the word out without the large advertising budgets and many companies have teams dedicated to identifying and working with the hot stylistas out there in the blogosphere. I am the one woman team here at Winky Designs that identifies and builds relationships with top bloggers (Hi!). I absolutely LOVE reading fashion blogs and can often be found exploring them on my off-time (I’m so dedicated aren't I ;)) so you can tell I really enjoy what I do. I've compiled 5 great tips on working with style and fashion bloggers and what to expect. This of course, is just from our experience, but I believe both brands and bloggers can collaborate and make money blogging by keeping these simple tips in mind!

• Go where the bloggers congregate. “Birds of a feather flock together”. Cliché yet true! Whether you’re a small brand looking for bloggers to work with or you’re a blogger looking to be seen, make yourself stand out from the crowd by showcasing your unique style and image on popular forums and style sites. If you’re a blogger, post often on as many sites as you can and if you’re a brand, look for bloggers who are very active! Some sites we frequent: Chictopia, Wanelo, Pinterest, Instagram, Luvocracy, Lookbook, Independent Fashion Bloggers, ifabbo, Lucky Mag blogger community, Signature9.
• Get to know who you want to work with. The biggest pet peeve I hear from bloggers are brands that approach them impersonally meaning they don’t really know who they are and who their readers are. As a brand make sure you reach out to bloggers whose readers are your target demographic. Want to expand your US exposure? Then you probably shouldn't look for a French or Italian blogger. Chances are their readers are mostly from those countries. Also, do your research! Read their blog posts, follow them on their other social media platforms, and for goodness' sakes, DIALOGUE WITH THEM! That means commenting on their posts, talking to them on twitter, liking their Facebook, etc. Social media and marketing is all about creating conversation with your target market so get out there and say “Hi”!
• Expect there to be some compensation. Blogging can be a serious business that can take a lot of effort and time and most bloggers will expect something in return for a mention. Bloggers, don’t be afraid to ask! Almost all brands will be happy to gift a product or few in return for a review or style shoot. Brands, if you’re aiming for a high profile blogger with great readership and popularity, get ready to shell out some cash. Top bloggers can charge hundreds even thousands depending on their popularity. If you have the budget, go for it. Sometimes all it takes is one insanely popular blogger to blog about you and suddenly your sales are through the roof…

• Make the expectations clear and make it a mutually beneficial relationship. Brands, looking for SEO keywords and links throughout the post? Blogger, thought you we’re just posting a few images with little write up? Miscommunication and frustration on both sides can make it feel like bloggers are from Venus and brands are from Mars. Like any good relationship there needs to be an open dialogue and clear communication of the expectations from both sides. It’s helpful for the brand to produce a tip sheet of what they expect like SEO keywords, links to social media, mentions of promotions, etc. Bloggers, if there is anything in the tip sheet that isn't right for your blog, speak up! This is a collaboration and both sides should benefit by receiving increased exposure and traffic.
• Stay engaged- The relationship shouldn't end just because the collaboration is over. This isn't a one night stand! Keep the lines of communication open with each other by posting comments and tweeting. Bloggers, subscribe to the brand’s newsletter and stay abreast of the new collections. If the response from the collaboration was good, there’s a good chance the brand will work with you again. You can recommend other bloggers to the brand while using the collaboration as leverage to gain other brand partnerships!

Brand and blogger partnerships are a great way to market yourself and grow your exposure. Remember, don’t automatically count out a brand or blogger just because they have a relatively small following. Invest in one another and nurture the relationship because you never know if or when they’ll hit it big and I’m sure they’ll bring you along for the ride!