Manicure Monday: Trends inspired by your mani!

Unsure of what trends to try? Need some insight on your style? Look no further than the tips of your fingers! Here is some style inspiration based on your current/favorite manicure.

If your always painting your nails neutral/natural colors:

You like to keep things simple and classic. Your fave prints are the ones everybody knows- polka dots, stripes and why not, they look good on everyone! A classic is never out of style. Mix it up by trying these prints on unexpected pieces like denim. Or go crazy and mix'em up. Even good girls can have an edge; pick a classic item with twist- like this quilted purse covered in chains!  Gravitate to lace;  it adds interest to any outfit and is just as sweet as you are. Try out these styles! 

(Left to Right: Top, Dress, Jeans, Purse, Boots, Sunglasses, Dresses) 

If your nails are cool hues or dark shades:

You are completely in touch with your creative side and you aren't afraid to express it through your clothing! You are willing to go for the more daring trends. That's why we think you should embracing these bewitching pieces. Pick unique and mysterious accessories like moon pendants and natural stone necklaces. Heeled booties and fringe details are other ways to unleash your inner artist. Denim is your current fave fabric whether in distressed over sized boyfriends or chambray dresses and shirts. Go ahead, express yourself!  

(Left to Right: Dress, Booties, Necklace, Shirt, Jeans, Shirt, Necklace) 

If love bright bold colored manicures:

You love the spotlight! You aren't one to shy away so here are our picks for some dramatic fall fashion. Even as summer ends, the brights go on! Steal the spotlight in color-blocked ensembles. Accessorize up with statement necklaces in the boldest and brightest colors. Contrast your brights with futuristic and sporty materials-mesh, neoprene and lucite. Most of all just have fun!  

(Left to right: Jumper, Wedges, Necklace, Necklace, Jacket, Heels, Purse) 

So what are your thoughts, do you agree with your manicure inspired style forecast? 

How to wear: Florals!

This season floral has been BIG. And it has no  sign of slowing down. 

Here are some tips on incorporating this trend even if you don't have a green thumb:

Go tropical

It's summer so we are all dreaming of escaping on a tropical getaway. Get the look without the plane ticket! Exotic floral prints are perfect for those suffering from serious wanderlust..
(Dress. Sunglasses. Purse. Heels.)

90s throwback

So if you aren't a super fan of super sweet blooms, consider a throwback print. Take it back to the 90s with sunflower and daisy prints. These prints are perfect for a 90s grunge inspired ensemble..  

(Top. Shoes. Necklace. Shorts. Bag)

Big prints? One piece

Are you a go big or go home type of gal? When picking big prints try to stick to one printed piece in your outfit. Big prints are fun but can be a little overwhelming with combined with more. Keep everything else simple and complementary..

(romper, hat, sunglasses, heels)

Mix  it up!

Want to tackle two trends at once? Pair a small floral print with another print. Whats the trick to matching prints? Make sure they have the same overwhelming colors. In this outfit the floral print has a lot of pink and the plaid print also has a lot of pink. Try to stick to smaller or simpler prints. If one or both of the prints are too big and busy, the patterns may clash.

(top, heels, skirt, purse, lipstick)

Always accessorize.

So if you love this trend but your closet is already full (is that possible?) the best way to get the look is to add accessories. Pretty floral crowns and cute floral print bags can instantly add this trend onto your existing favorite outfits. 

(sunglasses, flower crown, cuff, purse, snap back)

Tell us how you plan on wearing this trend in the comments! 

How to Wear It: Plaid

(Chictopia user - Henar_ohmyvogue)

Plaid.  It's a word that's almost synonymous with Fall when it comes to fashion statements.  Maybe it's the often used burgundy and dark hues, the textural patterns that mimic the fallen leaves, or the fact that it's most often seen in the laid back long sleeve button down, perfect for the transitional season.

Either way you look at it, plaid has been a fall fashion staple since the staple, and it's not going anywhere anytime soon.  So how do you wear it?  

(Chictopia user - Chicagochic)

Plaid items come in several forms, but most classically in the form of a long sleeve.  But don't let that stop you from grabbing up a plaid skirt, a throwback influence from our Scottish friends.  If you want to maintain a classic and professional look while wearing this pattern, try it with a simple solid blouse, like the black one above.  Near knee length hemlines keep it from looking like a school girl outfit, and a high waisted silhouette updates it.  

(Chictopia user - Octoberrebel)

Plaid also partners well with an A line jacket silhouette, that's not only perfect for fall weather, but a great cut for any body type.  The uniform pattern will keep from visually adding bulk to your frame, while giving the eye some interest.  Pair neutrals with deep gem tones like ruby and turquoise for the most pop.

(Chictopia user - Sunitav)

And don't shy away from wearing plaid in more edgy, unconventional ways.  Plaid around the waist has been a symbol of grunge rebellion for a long time, and will likely remain a timeless statement.  While you often see this over a pair of jeans, experiment with a skirt, a dress, or a pair of leather shorts. Topping it off with a simple white T and leather jacket keep the look of-the-moment and effortless.

(Chictopia user - SashaReid)

Lastly, color is your friend!  Just because you often see plaid in red hues and grays doesn't mean you are limited to that.  Try out a pattern with blue, pastel, or green.  Wearing plaid in an unexpected color keeps your style updated and on point.  Pair a cool blue with a cobalt jacket (the season's hottest color), and pair with some solid accessories and tights for a chic day or night look.

So what do you think?  What's your favorite way to wear plaid?  Tweet us your looks and #urbanog #spankievalentine for us to see and repost!

Posted by:  Spankie

Springtime Grunge

While most of the fashion world is buzzing around the traditional florals, feminine hued leathers, and color blocking for spring, there's one underground trend that deserves some above-surface attention:  grunge.  

I think grunge will forever have a special place in my heart (blame my rock-n-roll lifestyle) and it's especially perfect for spring time as it enters the world of the unexpected, and if done right, can set you apart from a crowd.

Don't get me wrong, florals, maxi dresses, and wedges are fabulous, but sometimes showing a bit of leg under some thigh highs, with layers of baggy can really amp the casual sex appeal.  A sort of, I-don't-care-what-you-think attitude that is both tough yet womanly.

And it's simple to pull off.  The spring staple in this style?  Over-the-knee socks, stockings, or leggings. Next up: plaid.  Nothing says classic grunge like a good plaid piece, especially in red and black.  And when styled with a loose fit anorak military jacket and rocker Tee, you're pretty much good to go.

I also like the use of fringe bags which create a boho element to the style, and embellished boots.  

And let's not forget some crucial accessories... well, one in particular:  the beanie.  When you toss on a loose fit beanie on top, the entire look transcends to effortless style, and also just happens to be perfect for those less-than-desirable bad hair days.  

Opting to tie a menswear shirt around the waist is also a classic look, a la Pearl Jam.  

Give the grunge look a try.  You might be surprised at how cozy and addicting it can be.

Posted by:  Spankie 

(photos: thecomelycloset, jeroy, ruxandraloana)