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The How-To-Guide on Wearing a Basic Tee that’s Handmade, Independent or Otherwise COOL

Author: Elly Bethune, co-founder of 9th & Elm

We all know you can wear a tee shirt with basic leggings or denim, but what are the other cool ways to wear your favorite boyfriend tees and tanks!? I’ve got some ideas that can help you put some outfits together, or recognize some pieces missing in your wardrobe that you need stat! 

The Cigarette Skinny-Legged Pant: You want to make sure these pants are tight, tight, tight, so the tee shirt is the only thing blousy here. Try it with a crop top, or a regular-fitted tee is perfect with this pant-look. Love it with a POP of color with the heels here. Try the cobalt blue like I did. Purchase the Hide Your Crazy & Act Like a Lady Tee here.



The Accordion Maxi Skirt: Much like how we styled the maxi sequin skirt, you can do the same for this look. Love the POP of color with the accordion maxi skirt here. Think it adds a lot to the tank giving it a dressier look with heals or a dressed down look with nice sandals. This look would also be great with a bright pink lip. Purchase the Wild Spirit Tank here.

The Sequin Maxi Skirt: Tuck that tee into the maxi skirt and blouse it a little. Also throw on a statement necklace with this look, so it balances out the loud sequin skirt and the tee shirt being so opposite of one another. A statement necklace isn't 100 percent necessary, but see how it looks. Purchase the I Have Nothing to Wear Tee here.

The Leather Mini Skirt: Throw this on with some tall pumps, and girl you are good to go! Leave it tucked in or let it out. I like both the polished and un-clean look here, so try both to see how you feel hotter! Purchase the But First, COFFEE Tee here.



The Skater Skirt: This is a great look to have more fun with the tank. Try knotting it to the side or in the back and show a little skin. The bottom is so fun and flirty, why not flirt it up with the top too! Purchase the Drink Russian, Drive German, Wear Italian, Kiss French here.

Dressy Shorts: Put away those denim shorts for now ladies and gents, and let’s add a flouncy pair of shorts, or sequin, lace, to add some texture to the tee. While you’re at it, throw on some platform wedges to make sure those legs are looking long and lean! It’s the perfect tee to wear out with the girls to the bar, or out with your man. Purchase the Moon Shine Tee here.

Colored Jeans: It’s spring, after all, which means we need some color in our lives after all that drab black and dark colors in the winter that float around our closet. So let’s add that POP of color with our bottoms. Whether that means jeans or shorts, it doesn’t matter. Whatever you feel like that day, let it shine with your new tee or tank. Don’t have any colored denim, try white jeans too! Purchase the Rock Me Mama Like a Wagon Wheel Tank here.

The Boyfriend Jean: I love a good distressed boyfriend jean. Make sure to tight-roll those jeans, yes I said tight-roll like the 80’s (roll them high enough so they almost look like a capri skinny jean), and put on some baller heals with this look. Preferably a pump or one with an ankle strap and you could also add a blazer to complete this look. Purchase the Be YOU Tiful Tee here.


So stop wearing your tee like everyone else, and let’s jazz it up this spring! But first, you need a cool tee that screams you. Try out these tanks and tees this spring and bring your personality out with not only the top, but the bottoms too.

Whether you’re single or taken this Valentine’s Day, nothing rings in this holiday better than looking hot, hot, hot. Beyoncé Knowles,’ “Single Ladies,” makes for the perfect Valentine’s Day tune. You could be making up, breaking up, or making out… it covers it all! Check it!

Single or not, this is the day to dress up, because there is not a more important relationship, then the one you have with yourself. I’ve got the perfect three looks for you, so if you’re hitting the town with girlfriends, or going out to a romantic dinner with your partner, one of these looks is great for you!


All the single ladies (All the single ladies)
All the single ladies (All the single ladies)

All the single ladies (All the single ladies)
All the single ladies

Now put your hands up

Up in the club, we just broke up,
I’m doing my own little thing

Beyoncé’s infamous song rings loudly, as the anthem for all those single ladies this Valentine’s Day, which is why I chose Black Single Ladies Jumpsuit. This black little number has a skinny leg and deep v-neck plunge to show off your ladies so you choose. Its silky-look is sultry and luscious and will be the sure attraction for all those single men out there.  A large cocktail ring compliments this as well, layered with a 14K gold monogram ring, along with a chandelier earring, and a great stiletto. And to top it off, add some cuffs or bangles, or even a watch if you want to keep him on his toes. Nothing would be complete without my Costella Handbag in black leather with gold stud hardware. This cross-body will give you the convenience of being hands-free all night while at dinner, or lounging around or at the bar.

 
Cause if you liked it then you should have put a ring on it
If you liked it then you should’ve put a ring on it
Don’t be mad once you see that he want it
If you liked it then you should’ve put a ring on it

Well if he put a ring on it, then I would recommend this ensemble. Sugarlips’ Magenta Me Dress is the perfect little twist on the traditional Valentine’s Day Dress. I’m in love with the two-tone colors here. I think the fuchsia and marsala (the color of the year) colors really complement one another and make this dress great for not only this holiday, but also this spring. The cut-out back adds a little sexiness to the dress, and is subtle, so it doesn’t look like you’re trying too hard. Love this with a little bootie or a wedge. Layer it with bangles or cuffs, a large cocktail ring, a large statement necklace, and you’ll be sure to be a show-stopper for not only your man, but the entire room.
 

Pull me into your arms

Say I’m the one you want

If you don’t, you’ll be alone

And lastly, but certainly, not least, I’m loving this last option, because it’s very Valentine’s Day meets boho-chic-look. The Off the Beat Dress is the perfect dress, single or not, for the more chill holiday. If you’re just going out for some cocktails with girlfriends, or going out for a four-course steak dinner, this is the very “hip/cool-look,” without looking like you care or you’re trying. The fire red color, with the sheer bottom to show off your long legs, would look great with an awesome statement necklace, because of its crew collar, and some leopard wedges, to add a little pattern and sassiness. To lighten it up, add the Costella Handbag here in white leather with gold stud accents. The long gold chain hung on your shoulder or across will be a sure firecracker way to hold all your items, such as your cell phone and lipstick, so you can take #selfies all night long!.

Now it’s up to you to decide what kind of girl you want to be Valentine’s Day. Don’t let him decide that for you. You have all the control. You tell me…you want to be the vixen, the lover or the single girl that night? Purchase soon so I’m no longer in the dark. I can’t wait to find out!

Shop 9thelm.com today! 
Feel free to use  coupon code LUV9E for 10% off 9th & Elm products which is good through the big day! (February 14).
GO Ahead and enter this the 9th & Elm V-Day Gift Card TODAY!

A new trend is making its way on lips and you would never believe what it is.

Purple lipstick—you’ve heard right—purple!

This trend has been taking over in the world of beauty during the Fall season and forecasts show that they will be picking up more popularity during these winter months. We are positive this trend will also make its way into the Spring of 2015 in lighter shades of purple.

Here are 3 ways to know if this bold lipstick choice is for you. A shade of purple is for you if:

·         You appreciate people being drawn to your charismatic and alluring energy.

·         You’re a creative woman who thinks outside of the box and loves to make a bold statement without saying a word.

·         Are looking to keep people on their feet because of your mysterious and daring style.

·         Are a visionary!

Would you wear it?

While this shade of lipstick may not be for every woman, you can participate in wearing the shade of purple with your nail polish. The purple color looks great on nails and is quite the fashion accessory.

Will you be wearing the trend?

Pantone, known as the worldwide standard for color communication and inspiration since 1963, was excited to announce that Marsala would be the “IT” color of the year. Now, before you start thinking about chicken and a great glass of wine, we want to remind you that the warm red colors have often be worn as a fashion and beauty must. Remember the “Oxen Blood” craze? Not to mention burgundies and maroons have often been fashion colors that we can appreciate for the winter months.

According to www.Pantone.com:

"Much like the fortified wine that gives Marsala its name, this tasteful hue embodies the satisfying richness of a fulfilling meal, while it’s grounding red-brown roots emanate a sophisticated, natural earthiness. This hearty, yet stylish tone is universally appealing and translates easily to fashion, beauty, industrial design, home furnishings and interiors."

Marsala for Fashion

Marsala was a hit on the Spring 2015 runways with fashion designers featured in the PANTONE Fashion Color Report Spring 2015; Daniel Silverstain, Herve Leger by Max Azria and Dennis Basso incorporated the hue into their collections. The impactful, full-bodied qualities of Marsala make for an elegant statement color when the color is used on its own or as a compelling accent when paired with many other colors.

With the ever-growing popularity of floral prints and striping, variations of this hue will undoubtedly carry into men's and women's clothing throughout next year. Marsala is also a popular choice for jewelry and fashion accessories, including handbags, hats, footwear and the burgeoning market of wearable technology.

Marsala for Beauty

An incredibly versatile color for beauty, Marsala is an appealing and sophisticated shade that's flattering against many skin tones.

Marsala pairs exquisitely with monochromatic mixes of peachy pinks, and sparkles against antiqued gold metallics, offering an assortment of lipstick and blush options. Marsala illuminates a range of smoky-neutral color combinations, making it a captivating eye shadow color that can be worn from morning until night. Add an overlay of bronze for a dramatic look that suits any eye color, or use Marsala as a go-to finishing touch on nails.

Will you be wearing Marsala this year? 

While there are many reasons to wear the color gold during holidays, we have 3 great reasons that Gold is your color for the New Year! Many people believe that the way they bring in the new is how their year will turn out, so why not chose a color that is all about wealth, winning, and fashion!

Confidence- If you have always been a little shy, then wearing the color gold is a smart way to be a little daring. Adding a little gold to your wardrobe will draw attention to your style. A nice gold scarf a gold handbag can become a conversation piece. Be ready for compliments and lots of admirable stares.

Fashionable- Gold is a very fashionable color to wear. It is a color that draws attention and makes you stand out in the crowd. People will be drawn to your look and admirable of your boldness to pull of such a dynamic hue. Wearing a gold sequins dress with a pair of red stilettos is the way to go when being a fashionista dynamo. Remember that too much gold can be tacky and tasteless so remember to do it with style.

Trendy- Thanks to stylish celebrities like Charlize Theron, for the Christian Dior perfume ad, gold is the trend for 2015. The New Year will be filled with brightness and delight.

While these suggestions are not guaranteed, it is a great way to build your confidence to reach your goals and help you build wealth. Not to mention, you’ll be a true fashionista.

What do you think of the color gold? Is this a color that you will wear for the New Year?

Learn more about the color gold and its significance here: http://www.empower-yourself-with-color-psychology.com/color-gold.html

The time has come when fashion has taken a complete 180 degrees.  This means that what fashion first claimed as a total Faux pas has now become the “IT” thing to wear. This happens often in fashion as the generations of fashionistas change and their style becomes a lot more daring and unique.

You remember that sweater that your grandma bought or better than that, made for you when you were a teen, and she couldn't wait to see you in it? You know, that Christmas sweater that you pray never shows up in your new fashionable wardrobe? The one that you dread being seen as people take a look at the holiday pictures from years or decades ago? Well, they are back!

The ugly Christmas sweater has now become the fashion statement that women and men are eager to find in their favorite department stores. This year alone, there have been a few consignment shops that have a special rack just for these hideous fashion finds. There is also a website that is dedicated to helping you find these fashion disasters quickly and affordably. Nation Ugly Sweater Day nationaluglychristmassweaterday.org gives a listing of stores that will provide you with your desirable needs to be an oxymoron of ugly and chic all at once.

This does not mean that all of the sweaters are so ugly that you can lose your lunch, but there are some that you can’t believe were made with the interests of some purchasing it. Most awesome, is that there are people that actually buy them, like the one you see here.

Hair masks are no longer for those with endless dollars and open access to luxury spas. They are now for the everyday woman and most the ingredients can be found right in your fridge!

What is a hair mask?

Similar to a facial mask, it helps to keep hair beautiful and healthy.

Making a hair mask is so simple that DIY’s are created daily with great recipes that are all-natural. Don’t throw away that little bit of fruit salad… just put it on your face!

This #DIY All Natural Hair Mask Recipe features plain yogurt, strawberry jam, and an egg.

All you have to do is combine the ingredients in a blender. And voila, done!  Smooth evenly on your hair from roots to end.

Massage the mixture into the scalp and let it stay in your hair for at least 15 minutes before shampooing.

Be sure to only use your hair masks once or twice a month. Excessive use can cause excess oiliness.

What do you think of hair masks? Do you have a recipe?

The New Year is the perfect time to start anew and put your resolutions in order.  We have one fashion resolution to start you in the right direction… wearing a short dress.

A short dress is the ultimate trend for holiday parties because they are fun, flirty, and can easily be dolled up with great jewelry accessories, sky-high heels or even sensible flats.  

No need to get stuck on the Little Black Dress trend. Expand your possibilities with unique and chic short dresses that come in a variety of colors, sizes, cuts, and amazing patterns.

To ensure you have great inspiration, we found three amazing short dresses and dazzling jewelry by Helen Jewels.

This red Vivid Flower Mesh Lace Skater Dress from Chic Wish is flirty with vivid flower crochet trim on the sheer lace bodice along with a peter pan collar. The dress which is on sale now for $49.00 looks great paired with the Lavish Lifestyle Crystal Earrings.

Short doesn’t have to be a mini. The Women Heattech Knit Long Sleeve Dress by Uniqlo which is on sale for $19.90 is the perfect canvas to add accessories to make you look like a work of art.  We’re thinking that this bedazzled Indie Love Clutch will do the trick.

The LBD will never go out of style and this dress is an example as to why. This Short-sleeves Leather-panelled Zipped Black Dress which is on sale for $27.99, at blackfive.com is stylish and looks great with Helen’s Jewels Turquoise Stone Cuff Bracelet.

No matter your body shape or your height there is always a short dress that will look great on you and fit your budget! 
So ready, get set, shop!