Homecoming Dress Shopping

My Featured Article:http://theteentrends.com/homecoming-dress-shopping/

For most high schoolers, Homecoming is only a few weeks away. Which means ladies, if you haven’t found your dress by now (or guys, a tux or suit); you’re running out of time. 

But don’t go into panic mode just yet because as always, we here at The Teen Trends have got you covered. Whether it’s a floor length gown or a sexy sheath you’re dreaming of, the following sites and stores have got everything you’ll need.

Check out places like:

•Promgirl.com

•Jessicamcclintock.com

•Gojane.com

•Davidsbridal.com (Yes, they carry more than just wedding dresses!)

•Or the formal section at most department stores (For both girls and guys)

*A helpful tip- dress swapping might come in handy for those looking to save on the night’s expenses. Exchange, or simply borrow a dress from a friend who has already worn it to a previous dance. This will save you both time and money. Just don’t forget about the accessories like shoes, jewelry, ties, or clutches.

So get a jumpstart on planning, and beat the rush of others ordering corsages and boutonnieres, or making dinner reservations for the big dance.

Here’s to your school’s victory on the field and your victory in the fitting room. Happy Shopping! 

Fall Jacket Guide

My Featured Article: http://theteentrends.com/fall-jacket-guide/

Get ready to bundle up! Here's a look at some of this season's best jackets.

Blazers

Still so trendy for juniors and women are blazers. These sport coat inspired jackets can really dress up an outfit, without doing too much. The great thing about blazers is that they come in a variety of fabrics, styles and colors- so you can purchase a few without feeling like you're repeating an outfit. 

The 'One Button Color Blazer' from Papaya (pictured above) is a great option. ($21.99)

Trench Coats

The essential rainy weather item.  Available in different lengths, trench coats look great on everybody. 

Forever 21's 'Belted Button Tab Trench Coat' (shown) is definitely a winner. ($34.80)

Pea Coats 

A slightly heavier coat designed to keep you warmer as the weather cools down; pea coats are fashionable for both guys and girls. Made in an array of styles and colors to please every fashion sense. 

The women's 'Belted Performance Fleece Peacoat' from Old Navy (shown) is beyond fierce. ($34.94)

Jean Jackets 

When you need something that goes with everything, a jean jacket serves that purpose. This selection is a classic, it will never go out of style- just be careful when wearing a jean jacket with jeans, as the washes should never match. 

Levi's 'Authentic Trucker Jacket' (shown) is the perfect pick. ($78)

Down Jackets 

In regions of the country that get unreasonably cold during fall months and worse during the winter, a down jacket is ideal. The feathers are great insulators of heat which is what keeps you so warm inside those soft puffy jackets. Downs also come in different lengths and styles and are perfect for outdoor activities. 

Old Navy's 'Frost Free Quilted Jacket' in Gray Leopard (shown) is utterly adorable. ($49.94)

Leather Jackets

A clear indicator that the weather has changed is signified with the leather jacket. Like the jean jacket, a leather jacket is also timeless. This item is the epitome of cool. Available in a variety of styles and colors, as well as real and faux materials. 

Nordstrom's 'Collection B Quilted Faux Leather Jacket' (shown) is just so chic. ($33.90)

Which ones will you be wearing this fall? 

Backpacks Under $50

My Featured Article: http://theteentrends.com/backpacks-50/

Because it's that time again, I give you another back-to-school article..enjoy!

Gear up for school with these fashion forward backpacks. With plenty of styles to choose from and each bag under $50, get ready to make a statement in the halls.

For the Diva

Go wild with JanSport's High Stakes Realistic Chee Backpack (shown in Black/ Multi). Available at Sport Chalet and sportchalet.com, $40.

For the Jock

Support your favorite team with the Concept One Slingbag (*Backpack shown is one of many teams. Available only on target.com, $29.99.

For the Techie 

Carry your laptop safely in Pottery Barn Teen's Gear-Up Messenger Bag (shown in Black Damask). Messenger bags can be made customizable with embroidered names or initials for an additional charge. Available at pbteen.com, $39.50.

For the Trendsetter

Get noticed with this super popular trend in Mossimo Supply Co. aztec themed backpack(shown in Multicolor Stripe Print). Available only on target.com, $29.99.

For the Practical Student 

Tote your belongings to and from class with the GAP Herringbone Backpack (size senior). Available at gap.com, $25.86. 

As always, Good luck in school and Happy Shopping! 

Dressing For an Interview

My Featured Article: TBA or http://theteentrends.com/author/ali-s/

With school out for break, summer presents the perfect time to pick up a job. But before you start groaning, let me give you a few reasons why you might consider working this summer. a) Working keeps you busy b) The money you make will be YOURS and c) Your parents will be happy not having you ask for EVERY thing you want. Now I know what you might be thinking, “Interviews are scary!” “What if they don’t like me?” “What should I wear?”  And to that, all I can say is…relax. Take a deep breath. You’ll get through this.

Confidence is extremely important when going on an interview. If you have confidence, the person interviewing you will be able to see that, and your chances for getting that job are likely to increase. The key to being confident is in part, looking confident. So how do you do that? How do you dress for an interview? It’s simple. Follow along…

TOPS

Stay away from casual. No t-shirts, tank tops or the like. Try a nice fitting blouse with sleeves (short sleeves at minimum).  You might also try layering a cardigan or blazer over a sleeveless blouse.

This: 

Not this:

BOTTOMS

This one is open for debate. Slacks or skirts with an appropriate length (knee) are always okay in my book- I tend to side with slacks however. Black is always a safe bet, as it goes with just about anything. 

This:

Not this: 

SHOES

Although the job you’re interviewing for might be set in a casual environment, I say to be on the safe side wear a semi-formal closed toe shoe. This means no sneakers or flip-flops. It also means no strappy stilettos. A wedge or heel, of appropriate height will do. We’re trying to get a job ladies, not a date!

This: 

Not this:

ACCESSORIES

Less is more. Of course pair your outfit with key pieces like earrings, a watch, maybe even a necklace or bracelet. Just don’t over do it. The goal is to look professional and stylish at the same time- not like you just stepped out of Forever 21’s accessories department. *If there’s one accessory you MUST wear at an interview, it’s a watch. It shows that you’re cognoscente of time; a quality any employer will appreciate.

This: 

Not this: 

Think you’re ready? Go get ‘em!

Choosing A Beach Bag

My featured article: http://theteentrends.com/choosing-beach-bag/

If you’re planning a trip to the shore, what do you bring? Most people carry items like: a beach towel, books, cell phones, iPods, sunscreen, food/drinks, maybe even a chair and umbrella. Then there are those who bring sporting equipment like volleyballs, footballs, Frisbees- you name it. When you think about it, that’s a lot to carry, so it begs the question, “How do you lug it all around?”

Transparent beach bags are ideal for 2 purposes. One is obvious by it being see through; it makes finding your belongings that much easier. Honestly, who wants to dig for sunscreen when the sun is blazing out? These types of bags come in a variety of sizes, making them convenient for toting around lots or just the opposite. And two, because we know that there’s a possibility our things could get wet at the beach, having a bag that is water resistant combats this. Also if you’re carrying valuables with you, you want to ensure that they’re in safe keeping right? If you can’t find a bag that is completely water resistant, make sure to place the items you want protected in a smaller compartment or bag that is.

Totes with zippers or pockets come in handy if among the items you’re carrying, are smaller ones that could easily be lost or misplaced. Things like your cell phone, lip balm, iPod, headphones, etc. All of these items tend to get lost at the bottom of our purses any way, so having designated spots for them in your tote can help make your trip less stressful. You should be relaxing on the beach, not freaking out because your keys are missing!

Bags with long top handles allow you to carry your belongings with ease- as the bag can be tossed comfortably over your shoulder. If you’re at the beach solo or have bigger items, freeing your hands gives you the ability to carry a number of other things. Items like car keys, a drink, maybe even someone else’s hand. Beach bags with these types of handles make toting more efficient.

Sand, water and lots of use during the summer months can wear your bag out quite quickly. Typical use goes something like this: from the closet to the trunk, trunk to the sand, sand to the trunk, and back into the closet. That’s a lot of wear and tear! Features like thick handles and reinforced bottoms are what you should look for when shopping for this particular style. Owning a tote that is sturdy and made of good quality is a surefire way to get the most bang for your buck. Think about it, buying a new beach bag every summer is a little ridiculous. I say splurge a little now, that way you can enjoy the bag for seasons to come.

Happy Shopping!

Summer Shoe Must-Haves

My featured article: http://theteentrends.com/summer-shoe-must-haves/

With the official start of summer comes the steady stream of social invites, to places like beach parties, dinner dates and girl's night out. But in the midst of our planning, us girls always seem to run into the annoying question of, "What am I going to wear?" If this sounds like you, because it sounds like me- you're probably hoping for a wardrobe genie. While I can't provide that, I will provide a list of summer shoe must-haves, appropriate for any and all of your plans. 

DAYTIME CASUAL

•FLIP-FLOP: Perfect for the beach or pool

•SLIPPER: Cute with shorts, skirts or capris

•FLAT SANDAL: Adorable with a dress

NIGHTTIME DRESSY

•SLIPPER: Cute with shorts, skirts or capris

•WEDGE: Ideal for a dinner date or girl's night out

•ESPADRILLE: Its wrap around strap dresses up any outfit

From day to night, these shoes will carry you the entire summer through. Which styles do you already own? Which styles do you want next? 

Summer's Hottest Swimwear

My article: http://theteentrends.com/summers-hottest-swimwear/

It's that time of year again. The time when ladies around the world either break out their self-tanner and boldest accessories, or hide behind the covers and cringe with fear…it's swimsuit season! But don't start running for the hills just yet ladies- because I've designed a guide to help you find the perfect swimsuit. I give you 5 of this season's hottest designs. 

The One Piece

A single garment and classic choice. Its design provides moderate to full coverage and is available in an array of styles.

The Bikini

A two piece swimsuit available in several bra top and bottom styles. More skin is exposed in a bikini, so sunbathing is ideal for these suits. Whereas high action or physical activity would require a sports version of this suit for extra coverage. 

The Tankini

A two piece swimsuit comprised of bikini bottoms and a 'tank' top inspired upper. Tankinis are typically worn by those who prefer the coverage of a one piece with the convenience of a two piece. It provides moderate to full coverage.  

The Monokini

A one piece swimsuit that connects in the front and back, leaving only its sides exposed. Not ideal for sunbathing, just think of the tan lines! The monokini is available in a variation of styles and designs. It provides moderate to full coverage. 

The Swim Dress

A one piece swimsuit designed in dress form. For the more conservative swimmer, this particular design provides full coverage. 

Support and coverage for each swimsuit will vary, which is great for the self conscious of beach goers. The truth is, all of us aren't completely comfortable frolicking on the beach or near the pool in next to nothing. What is comforting to know if you're looking for something you'll feel most confident in, is that many are now made with firming and full control materials. Think beach wear `a la the Spanx revolution.  

Budgeting for swimwear can be done one of two ways: 

a) If you're the type of girl who likes to have multiple suits to choose from or you only plan on wearing yours for the current summer, I suggest going the less expensive route. Stores like Target and Old Navy carry really cute pieces at great prices.

Or

b) If you're looking for a higher quality suit with special features and/or materials, or you want something that will last you a few seasons- I say splurge. Yes, $50+ seems expensive but if you know that you'll get the wear out of it that you intend on, then why not? Stores like Nordstrom, Macy's and specialty boutiques carry these types of suits.

Choosing a swimsuit is a big deal this time of year. Many of us like wearing what speaks to our style while others of us simply like wearing what we feel comfortable in. No matter which style you choose, I hope this guide will prevent your next fitting room meltdown and instead send you out the doors with a smile. 

So this summer, be sure to pick the suit that suits you best!