Check Me Out On NaturallyFromMe.WordPress.Com!

Hey lovelies!

This is a quick post to tell you all about my feature on naturallyfromme.wordpress.com.  I was lucky enough to get in touch with Sarie, the creator of Naturally From Me, through twitter for a chance to feature on her blog.  It's was a nice change to be in the spotlight. :)

You can check out my feature here, but also check out the other stories and information that Naturally From Me has to offer.

You can also check Sarie out on Twitter.

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Head to naturallyfromme.wordpress.com to get in touch with Sarie.  If you have any questions for me about the post, feel free to comment below OR send me an email at curlsfothegirls@gmail.com!

Spotlight Monday: Stephanie

Tell us about yourself.

> My name is Stephanie, but everyone calls me Steph.  I'm 20 years old from NYC!  I am the youngest out of 6 girls and I'm always getting picked on lol.

How long have you been natural? What is your hair type?  Describe your curls!

> June 2nd will make 2 years of me being natural.  The top of my hair is 3c and I would say the back and sides are 4a-4b.  I love my hair, but I'm still trying to figure out what to do because the top of my hair has looser curls than the rest.

Did you transition or big chop?  Why did you take that route?

> I transitioned for a little while during my first year of college.  One day, I decided to just cut it all off.  I could have transitioned longer, but I was far too anxious to feel my hair texture and not have to worry about my natural hair and the permed hair, too.

On big chopping-- how did you feel?

> When I big chopped on June 2,2012, I was terrified!  My mom made it even harder.  I thought she would be so supportive of my decision, but she wasn't.  She told me she didn't like it and that I looked like a little boy.  Feelings hurt much?  Yes!

What was it like when you experienced your natural hair for the first time?

> Above all of that, I was so in love with my little afro lol.  I washed it every single day to keep my curls poppin'. 

What are some of your favorite products? (top 3)

> My favorite products now would have to be anything from the Shea Moisture line, as well as Curls Unleashed.

What are your go-to hairstyles?

> I don't think I have any go-to hairstyles, but I do like putting my hair up in a puff, or a twist across the front and my puff in the back.

What is a haircare lesson that you've learned that you'd be willing to share with someone who wants to go natural?

> I think a really important lesson is don't go natural in hopes of having hair like someone else.  You will come into the natural hair world hating yourself.  Your hair is YOUR HAIR and only your hair.  Your hair is unique and you should love it regardless whether it's kinky, coily, curly, or very loosely curled.  It'll be hard at first, but I think it gets easier with time.

What are your hair goals?

> My hair goal would probably be to get BSL (bra strap length) but above all else I just want to maintain healthy, natural hair.  Keep in mind that Black hair does grow!

How do you feel about your hair today?

> Being almost 2 years natural, it's the best decision I've ever made, I lovvvvvveeeee my hair, and I love everything about this little natural hair movement that keeps growing.

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Do you have any questions for Stephanie about her natural hair journey?  Comment below!

Spotlight Monday: Melissa

Tell us about yourself.
> Hello Naturals!  My name is Melissa; I dance, I love cats and I am a "Natural Hair" And "Black Self Love" enthusiast!  I am pursuing my Masters Degree in Mental Health Counseling.  I have strong aspirations of not only being an advocate in the Mental Health Community, but also of bringing more Mental Health services, and awareness, to our disregarded communities of color in any way that I can.

How long have you been natural? What is your hair type?  Describe your curls!
> Well (brace yourself! Lol), I am one of those naturals who "went natural" more than once.  As a freshman in college, I made the decision to change a lot of my habits including relaxing my hair, especially because I didn't get them often.  My first relaxer was forced; I was only 8yo!  After attempting my 1st transition, a fresh relaxer and weave called my name.  After almost 9 months, I went back!  When I saw how TERRIBLE the perm was, and how weak and stupid I felt, I said "that's it for this!" and ever since the summer of 2009, I never got another relaxer. :)  My hair type is mixed, but overall I think I am a 4A & 4B with BEAUTIFUL tight coils and tight S shaped curls.

Did you transition or big chop?  Why did you take that route?
> I transitioned with multiple trims, braids, and weaves.  Then I cut my hair to my ears when I saw how unhealthy my hair was.  I decided to transition because I wanted to see the difference in my hair as it grew, and I was honestly too afraid to cut it all off.  Now I feel that because I went through a lot of phases and heat damage, and even though my curls are coming back to life and I'm way more comfortable, I definitely want to cut it again in the future.

 What was it like when you experienced your natural hair for the first time?
> Like many transitioning naturals, I thought I would have Tracy Ellis Ross hair or something (lol), but I didn't.  I didn't know what I was doing with my hair and I felt kind of lonely in my journey.  It took me years to stop using heat and to embrace my TRUE natural texture after giving up crazy chemicals like relaxers (No lye, No lie lol).  However, when I decided to be 100% true to my naturalness, I was very happy when I saw how curly my hair was, and I was ecstatic for my freedom! - I felt so strong because this was one thing about me that NOBODY or NO social norm could continue to control. 

What are some of your favorite products? (Top 3)
> I'm still in a trial and error phase because I feel like my hair is a complicated girl, but to name three products:

- Raw Shea butter (my whole body swears by it)

- Eco Styler Gel

- Cantu Shea Leave-in conditioner

I know it says to name three, but the Tresemme Naturals Conditioner is really good, too! LOL

What are your go-to hairstyles?
> As much as I love twist outs and Bantu knot outs, I have too many failed attempts with them.  So my go-to hairstyle would be my Beautiful, coily puff aka "Le Puff Zaddy".

How do you feel about your hair today?
> Today-- I love my hair!  Even though I am still not 100% confident with every hairstyle I do or try, I rock it with love and pride because I do love and value my return to natural.  I love to use water in my hair everyday now, and I will never turn back to relaxers, which just didn't work for me, or even heat.  I am fully in love with the versatility of my hair, and the hair textures of all people of color!  I feel like I can make a stance with my hair in so many ways and I love it.

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Do you have any questions for Melissa about her natural hair?  Comment below!

Spotlight Monday: Milan

Tell us about yourself.

> My name is Milan; I am from the Bronx, and New York City is my home.  I am a Junior at Syracuse University and I am studying Communications and Rhetorical Studies.  I am also an active poet on Syracuse's Campus.

How long have you been natural?  What is your hair type?  Describe your curls!

> I have been natural for 2 years now; it will be 3 years next summer!  For sometime, I didn’t know I was going natural (officially) until after a small chop of my hair.  I completely decided to stop getting perms.  Within those two years, I didn’t fully embrace my natural hair.  Instead, I would just flat iron it or get it blown out.  When I began to my rock my natural hair, I discovered that I had multiple curl patterns.  To my surprise, I am a 3c, 4a, and 4b, leaving me with three textures all around, providing me with different curls.  Some of my curls are super defined at times, and some of my curls can be loose, but not so much. My hair is thick so the different textures compliment each other.

Did you transition or big chop?  Why did you take that route?
> I began to embrace my natural hair after 2 years when I had some kind of length.  I didn’t big chop; I transitioned by letting my perm grow out through box braid installations.  I took this route because when I used to get perms in high school, the chemicals were too strong for my hair so it started to break after a while.  My mother would treat my hair like it was her prized possession because my hair was long and soft.  I miss it sometimes, but going  natural was a big step for me and I knew it was my time to treat my hair like my prized possession, and I definitely do.

What was it like when you experienced your natural hair for the first time?
> It was crazy; it was like those who knew I was natural for that time always wanted me to embrace it.  When I finally wore my hair out in an actual style, it almost felt like “the wait” was over.  However, I was very insecure about it because I didn’t know how I would actually look.

What are some of your favorite products? (Top 3)

> My favorite products are Cantu Coconut Oil leave-in conditioner, Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk, and Olive Oil.  I haven’t become a product junkie yet, but I can feel it coming soon.

What are your go-to hairstyles?
> My go-to styles are definitely box braids (when it’s a colder-- you can never go wrong), and my 'fro!  I do two strand twists and wash & gos with JUST conditioner and my curls come out defined!

How do you feel about your hair today?
> Honesty, I love my hair, and I never thought of turning back to the chemicals that once damaged my hair before.  I felt like it was going to be harder to maintain my natural hair, and at the beginning, it was.  I didn’t know what I was doing, and I didn’t have any sort of guidance.  Now this blog happened and, I can connect with some women on here, whether its their hairstyles or different texture types.  When I visit the blog, I see some similar products that I've used, and some that I can use in the future to produce some of the same results as these lovely women have.  I feel like I am apart of this glorious resurgence of natural beauty and embracing it.  It makes me feel like the movement is here to stay.  This is only the beginning of my journey.

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Do you have any questions for Milan about her natural hair?  Leave a comment below!

Spotlight Monday: Christinia

Tell us about yourself.
> I am a Syracuse University Alumna pursuing a career as a Criminalist-- one laboratory position at a time.  I love to dance, watch movies (action & horror), paint my nails, do hair, shop and EAT!  I just enjoy having a good time with good people.

How long have you been natural?  What is your hair type?  Describe your curls!
> I have been fully natural for 2 years & 7months, but began the process April 2010 (my last relaxer was for my 20^th birthday).  My hair type is 4a/4c; my hair is very tightly coiled yet soft.  However, the middle of my hair is so thick and tightly coiled that it lacks definite shape while the sides of my head have more defined curls that are springy when pulled.

Did you transition or big chop?  Why did you take that route?
> In May of 2011 I did my Big Chop!  Prior to, I would just wear braid outs, but running out of patience, I was ready to cut all of the remainder of my relaxed hair off.  I thought and found it to be easier to deal with one texture of hair.

On big chopping-- how did you feel?
> After my BC I felt like a new person.  I had given myself a new look; however, I was still shy to show it off because it was very different than what I was used to.  It was definitely a style I would have to get used to being that it was only my natural hair.  I also felt like I had accomplished a goal being that I had been talking about going natural for a long time.

What was it like when you experienced your natural hair for the first time?
>  As time went on, I was surprised at how much I began to fall in love with my hair.  Not only was it easy to maintain, as far as saving time on doing my hair, the compliments I was getting played a part on it growing on me.  But when it came time for me to style my hair differently, I did think "OMG! what did I do?!" because it was so thick, and short, and I thought there was no way I could straighten it as good as it could have been straightened with a relaxer-- glad to know I was wrong.

What are some of your favorite products? (Top 3)
> I love using curling lotions and smoothies especially the Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie.  Prior to washing my hair, I apply Taliah Waajid’s The Great Detangler while twisting my hair (I wash my hair while its twisted), and I wash and condition with Crème of Nature’s Shampoo and Conditioner with Argan Oil.

What are your go-to hairstyles?
> I love, love, love wearing Bantu knot outs, regular twist outs and my wash-and-go 'fro!  As a protective style, or a style when I know I’m not going to want to do my hair for a long time, I braid my hair in goddess box braids.

How do you feel about your hair today?
> I love my hair!  I find it simpler to maintain than if it was relaxed.  I am so glad I became natural because my hair is much healthier.  I know I can still do as many styles as I want, as well as styles I have done prior to becoming a Naturalista!

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Do you have any questions for Christinia about her natural hair?  Comment below!

Spotlight Monday: Fatima

Tell us about yourself.

> My name is Fatima Johnson; I love to dance and eat!  I am passionate about advocating for, and educating, the youth on the options they have regarding higher education and giving them the tools needed to get there.  I like to try and live positively and just love life!

How long have you been natural?  What is your hair type?  Describe your curls!
> I have been natural for 3 years.  See, my hair type is a lot; it's just SUPER thick!  For the most part, my hair is more wavy than curly.  I have a majority of 3b/3c curls with 3c/4a curls in the front, 3a/3b curls on the sides behind my ears, and 3c/4a curls at the back of my head.

Did you transition or big chop?  Why did you take that route?
> I decided to go natural when I saw that my hair was falling out in college.  I transitioned for two years then I cut off the last parts of the relaxed hair.  I cut off about 3 inches, maybe a little more.  I chose to transition because my natural texture was sooo similar to the already relaxed hair.  I also thought that it would be healthier for me to do this so I can smoothly transition and learn how to work with my natural texture instead of chopping everything off and working with a length that I had never experienced.  

What was it like when you experienced your natural hair for the first time?
> When I first experienced my natural hair, I was not happy.  Honestly, I did not know how to take care of my hair, and I was just straightening and ponytail-ing it lol.  Then, I heard about the naturalistas on YouTube and saw all of the beautiful hairstyles they did; the love they had for their hair was inspirational!  I was like "Wow-- I must be crazy not to love this hair!"  And then as I transitioned, I played around with Bantu knots and twist outs.  Then, I just cut the relaxed ends off and it was all magic from there!

What are some of your favorite products? (Top 3)
> My top three favorite products are pretty simple: shea butter, a cool water with an oil and conditioner mix, and TRESemme Naturals Conditioner.  I mix my Shea butter with sweet almond, jojoba, olive, coconut, vitamin E, and castor oils.  *That's also the oil mixture I use on my scalp. 

What are your go-to hairstyles?
> My go-to hairstyles?  Buns!  When I want to wear my hair out, I just do a simple twist out.  I also like wearing my hair in twists.  I'm still exploring different styles.  My texture is so different than those on YouTube; I expect the same results as them and never get it!  I just have to explore on my own.

How do you feel about your hair today?
> I absolutely LOVE my hair.  I won't lie-- I still feel self-conscious when I think about wearing it in a Wash and Go, but I know I'm gonna be like "Eff this!" one day, and do it.  I am so happy with the health, length, and diversity of my hair.  I can straighten, curl, twist, braid it, etc. and it feels good to have those options than to just be boring and straight like it was in my permed life.  I love my hair!

Until next time,

Ashley, xo.

Do you have any questions for Fatima about her natural hair?  Comment below!

Spotlight Monday: Kimberly

 Tell us about yourself.
> I am a 22-year-old Syracuse alumna with a passion for ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic through education and advocacy!  I am a makeup junkie-- no.. seriously-- (My mint app lets me know that I spend more money on makeup than I do food, LOL!) and a lover of peace and all things beautiful :)

How long have you been natural?  What is your hair type?  Describe your curls!
> My last perm was September 2012, so I have been perm-free for 15 months and I couldn’t be happier!  My hair type is a spunky and fierce mix of 3C and 4A.  In the middle of my head, my curl pattern is a bit curlier; the back of my hair, the sides, and front are a bit more of a loose pattern.  What I love most about my curls is how soft and beautiful they are.

Did you transition or big chop?  Why did you take that route?

> I transitioned for 11 months before I did a big chop.  I didn’t plan on doing a big chop because I was afraid of how I would look after since I was used to having either long hair flowing from my scalp or long hair flowing from my tracks, LOL!  During the summer, I finally decided to experiment with my transitioning hair and do a two strand twist.  I spent HOURS combing and parting and moisturizing and twisting in hopes of having my hair looking as beautiful as I had seen on the natural hair blogs.  The next day, I unraveled the twists and was so disappointed with the finished product.  One half of my hair was nicely curled, and the bottom half of my hair was straight and stringy and didn’t curl at all.  I was so frustrated!  So, I hopped on the 4 train, got off at Nevins, and walked into the Evolution Green Room, on Atlantic Avenue, and chopped the rest of my permed hair off.

On big chopping-- how did you feel?  
> I didn’t tell anyone that I was going to cut my hair off except for my line sister, Simi. After the stylist cut my hair and gave me a nice finger coil style, I looked in the mirror with feelings of excitement and happiness.  I finally did it, and honestly, there was no turning back since I spent all I had on the cut and style LOL.  I was very happy with the way it looked and was pleasantly surprised that a short do fit my face.

What was it like when you experienced your natural hair for the first time?
> It was hard.  I had my first perm at age 7, so for 14 years, I hadn’t seen my natural hair and I didn’t know what to do with it.  I wanted to teach myself how to do my own hair so I spent hours upon hours researching styles for TWAs on YouTube and became comfortable with finger coiling my hair.  It was a pretty time-consuming hairstyle in comparison to my previous hair regimens with perms/weaves/box braids.  I grew discouraged and eventually got box braids.  However, now that I have my hair out again, I am so hyped to see how healthy and how much my hair has grown since August!!!

What are some of your favorite products? (Top 3)
> I love the Jane Carter restore moisture mist!  It makes it so easy to moisturize daily and refresh my hair.  My favorite conditioner is the Organix Biotin and Collagen!  It smells sooo good, and always leaves my hair soft, bouncy and full.  Lastly, I love, LOVE, LOVE the Eco Styler Olive Oil gel.  It is by far the best product that gives my hair the perfect curl definition for my wash and go.  After trying Jane Carter's curl defining cream, Cantu coconut curling cream, and Taliah Waajid curly curl cream, this product gave me the best curl definition without making my hair feel heavy, greasy or flaky.  As a matter of fact, my current “Wash and go” style has been going strong for the last 12 days!

What are your go-to hairstyles?

> Since I am still learning my hair, I’ve only experimented with finger coiling and wash and go styles.  But my favorite of the two is my wash and go with eco styler gel.  It's easy and gives my hair the best curl definition.

How do you feel about your hair today?
> I loveeeeee my natural hair, and I am never turning back to the permed and flat-ironed life I was used to!  It was harder in the beginning because I was adjusting to the change, but my boyfriend definitely made it a lot easier for me to love my hair since he too loved it and preferred it over my weaves!  I am in love with my natural hair, but I can’t lie, I still love a good weave.  I think as my hair grows longer, I will become more and more comfortable with my hair and nothing else.  But, this is all apart of my natural hair journey!

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Do you have any questions for Kimberly about her natural hair and/or journey?  Comment below!

What Are the Ladies of Spotlight Monday Using for Moisture and Definition?

Hey all!

A couple of weeks ago, I was asked by a friend, to ask the lovely ladies of Spotlight Monday about their Holy Grail/Staple/Go-To products, and what products give us the kind of definition and moisture we want.  Luckily, most of the lovely ladies answered with more than enough information, so all of you beautiful people get to see what we are using to keep our hair healthy, moisturized and defined!  

I have also included the links for each individual Spotlight Monday post so you can read back and read about the lovely ladies that have featured thus far on Spotlight Monday.  If I am able to get the remaining information from the missing features, I will definitely update this post and let you all know!  So let's get to it:

Me (http://curlsfothegirls.blogspot.com/2013/09/spotlight-monday-my-natural-story.html)

• Water*
• Kinky Curly Knot Today Leave-In/Detangler
• SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie
• Miss Jessie's Jelly Soft Curls/Olive Oil Eco Styler Gel
• EVOO/EVCO/JBCO
• Tresemme Naturals Nourishing Moisture Conditioner
• Curl Junkie Curl Rehab Moisturizing Hair Treatment/Neutrogena Triple Moisture Deep Recovery Hair Mask

Chantell (http://curlsfothegirls.blogspot.com/2013/10/spotlight-monday-chantell.html)

• Wen Cleansing Conditioner *(Fig is recommended for 'Ethnic' hair, but I use all of the different scents) for CoWashing
• Carol's Daughter Monoi Shampoo/Conditioner
• Camille Rose Blue Algae Deep Conditioner for protein/strengthening
• Trader Joe's Balance Moisturizing Nourish Spa Conditioner for moisture/slip
• Jane Carter Nourish and Shine (!!!)
• Coconut Oil
• Eco Styler Gel

Alex (http://curlsfothegirls.blogspot.com/2013/10/spotlight-monday-alex.html)

• Argan & Avocado Oils with Cantu Shea Butter (they're really light!)
• Use twist outs/perm rods for definition, or does a WnG & finger combs the hair to clump the curls together
• Eco Styler Gel for hold

Reecie (http://curlsfothegirls.blogspot.com/2013/10/spotlight-monday-reecie.html)

• L'oreal EverCurl Hydracharge Shampoo
• Aussie Moist Conditioner
• Hair Mayonnaise Deep Conditioner
• Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In
• Coconut & Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Eco Styler Gel

Malanya (http://curlsfothegirls.blogspot.com/2013/11/spotlight-monday-malanya.html)

• Dr. Bronner's Castor Oil Soap
• Olive Oil Gel
• Tea Tree Oil or Coconut Oil (occasionally)

Shanelle (http://curlsfothegirls.blogspot.com/2013/11/spotlight-monday-shanelle.html)

• Kinky-Curly Curling Custard
• SheaMoisture Hair Milk
• Beautiful Textures Tangle Taming Leave-In Conditioner

Shanna (http://curlsfothegirls.blogspot.com/2013/12/spotlight-monday-shanna.html)

• Ouidad Hydrafusion Curl Quencher
• Ouidad Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel (apply to very wet hair & it'll curl so fast!)
• SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie
• Jane Carter Spray Gel
• Love Me and Leave-Me-In Conditioner (made by natural hair enthusiast/vlogger, Kimmay)
• Conditional Love Conditioner

Please understand that the products mentioned have worked for us.  This post is just to give you an idea of the kinds of products that we use for moisture and definition.  I am, in no way, suggesting that you go out and buy one of everything mentioned, but if you do wish to try some of the products out, I would definitely suggest that you read product reviews and ingredients before using them.  You may find that they contain ingredients that don't necessarily work for you, and that's fine.  Also, take into consideration that everyone cannot use everything and what has worked for one may not work for you!

Trust your hair.  It will always tell you what it likes and what it needs.  Just listen!

Until next time,

Ashley, xo.

If you have any questions for the ladies of Spotlight Monday, please comment below!

Spotlight Monday: Malanya

For this lovely Spotlight Monday feature, we'll be meeting Malanya.  She is the girlfriend of a friend who actually suggested that I feature Malanya and her beautiful locs.  Shall we begin..

How long have you been loc'ing your hair?
> I've had my locs since I was around 7 so... about 15 years.

Why did you make the decision to do so?
> My mother made the decision for me when I was young actually haha... The whole family- my mom, my dad and my younger sisters started our locs at around the same time.  I made the decision to keep them when I was in middle school though because, for me, they began to represent commitment, creativity and patience.  I feel like they're a part of me in every way possible.

How did you feel after beginning your journey?
> I felt more aware of the positive and negative connotations associated with locs and more ready and willing to deal with them.

What are your hair goals?
> My goal for them is to keep them happy!  Clean, moisturized, and free to grow.  I've always had A LOT of hair so taking care of it can sometimes be stressful but I'm used it.

Do you try different/creative styles?  If so, what is/are your favorites?
> After I wash and twist them, I'll usually leave them straight or braid them to make them a little curly.  Then I'll put it in a pony tail or let it hang.  Occasionally I'll wear a bun. I've dyed the back of my hair blonde a few times. It's actually past due for another application.  My favorite hairstyle is when I put in bantu knots that look like huge brown roses on my head.  I leave those in for about 24- 36 hours and when I take them out, they're ridiculously curly.  I love that!  It's funny though when I wear the big bantu knots in public, I either get compliments or awkward stares but I just do what makes me feel good.

*Side note: I have occasional fantasies of shaving just the back of my head... but I probably won't ever do it.  I feel like I would cry so much and feel naked (in a bad way) afterward.

How do you feel about your hair today?  
> Right now, I have two new baby locs and I'm really happy about them.  One is awkwardly in the front and the other is hiding at the top among its older sisters.  They're so tiny!  It's exciting when new ones grow.  I'm proud of them.

I absolutely loved Malanya's story.  She was a little nervous, but who would be with locs like that?!

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Do you have any questions for Malanya about her lovely locs?  Comment below!

Must Have 2013 Fall/Winter Fashion Trends

Thinking back to my first post, I believe I mentioned to you all that I would be including different pieces on my blog including fashion and makeup topics.  Finally, we'll take a quick break from our cabinets and head to our closets as my friend, Jair, a fashion PR blogger, guides us in selecting pieces for our 2013 Fall/Winter Wardrobes...

Jair, Fashion PR Blogger, Creator of fashionroyaltyblog.wordpress.com

Hello ladies,

I think it’s only right that I first introduce myself.  My name is Jair, and I am a fashion PR blogger.  I am thankful Ashley wanted to feature me on her blog.

Now, as it finally gets colder, I thought it was only right to talk about 2013 fall and winter trends.  There are plenty of trends that will catch your eye.  Some might be intimidating , and some are super easy to pull off.  Today, I will share three trends that are a must have in your wardrobes.  These looks will not only be work appropriate, but can double up as either casual or nightlife looks.

Statement Color: Green

1. Shades of Green:
Green is definitely in for the fall.  Different shades of green look fantastic while the colors of the leaves are changing.  Instead of going for pastel and bright neon green, opt for emerald, sage, or forest green.  These rich and vibrant colors looks fabulous, and can warm up the tones of a look during the chillier months.  If you’re bold and daring, purchase an oversized wool coat or a sleek tailored dress with a knee length hemline.  The oversized wool coat will keep you warm on chilly days while adding extra character to any outfit.  A sleek tailored dress in either of these gorgeous colors will also set you apart while at work. The color will definitely warm up the undertones in your skin, while keeping you classy and chic.  If one statement piece is too much, you can opt for some green accessories.  In this look, I paired a wool black sweater with a wool knee length pencil skirt with leather detail, a forest green tote and a forest green hat.  Even though this look is simple, you bring character to the outfit by bringing in this statement color.

Statement Coat

2. Statement Coat:

This fall/winter, it is essential to have a statement coat.  Whether you’re bold and funky, or a minimalist, you'll need to have a coat that sets you apart, and takes your outfit to a whole new level.  Statement coats are a perfect touch for a simple outfit.  It’s an easy way to show your personal style without having to do so much with the base of your outfit.  If you want something super bold, opt for a bright faux mink coat, or something with a bold pattern and color.  These would be perfect to pair with an all black outfit.  It will give the outfit an immediate dose of personality.  The look I put together was a little subtle.  Cream is a beautiful color for the fall, especially in contrast to the colors of the leaves.  Wearing a pair of boyfriend jeans, a cream chunky oversized wool sweater, and a pair of booties, is the perfect base for this outfit.  It’s warm, yet easy and comfortable.  The statement jacket is a trendy shearling drape jacket.  Even though it’s a neutral color, the fur showing on the inside sets the jacket apart.  Also, it looks fab against the wool cream sweater.  To complete this look wear gold accessories-- simple studs and a chunky chain necklace-- a leopard clutch, and maroon lipstick and nail polish. The maroon will definitely set the mood for the fall.

The Leather Touch

3. Leather Weather:

We all know that leather was a major trend for this summer, even though it seemed a little impractical.  To embrace the cool weather, this funky trend will follow us into fall.  Instead of wearing leather shorts or skirts, switch it up with a pair of leather sweatpants or trousers.  These leather sweatpants give a “put together” casual look.  This look I put together was casual, yet appropriate for work, or for a day exploring NYC.  The boxy white t-shirt was perfect for these leather sweatpants.  It gives the look a trendy and cool feel.  I also added a wool trench coat with leather detailing to this outfit.  I think the coat was super cool and amped up the outfit; it brought it together as a whole.  To finish off the look, add a pair of sneakers, gold accessories, and nude makeup.  This keeps the look fresh, clean, and, of course, chic.

There are plenty of trends to be embraced for the colder months.  These are just a few essentials you MUST have in your wardrobe to have a fashionable fall and winter.  For more news about fashion, public relations, beauty, and styling tips tune in to fashionroyaltyblog.wordpress.com for updates.  Thanks for reading!

For more info about these looks prepared by Jair, follow @FPR_Royalty on Twitter!