Tag Archives: Tips

Tips For Cleaning Out Your Closet

Even though we may be excited to buy everything on our spring and summer wish lists, we still have the daunting task of cleaning out our closet. Once completed though, we are filled with relief and excitement to start new! For some preparation work, make sure you create a playlist to keep your spirits high. Also, be prepared to trust your gut and let things go. Lastly, don’t stress about getting everything done all in one day. Take your time so that yEven though we may be excited to buy everything on our spring and summer wish lists, we still have the daunting task of cleaning out our closet. Once completed though, we are filled with relief and excitement to start new! For some preparation work, make sure you create a playlist to keep your spirits high. Also, be prepared to trust your gut and let things go. Lastly, don’t stress about getting everything done all in one day. Take your time so that you’re not overwhelmed and to make sure you get it done right. closet Image Source: Lauren Messiah

Start By Taking Everything Out

You want to be able to clean out the spaces holding your clothes. After the space is vacuumed and dusted you will be able to see what you have and can start putting them into piles.

Sort & Prioritize

Once everything is laid out for you to see, it will be easier to divide and conquer. Since we are moving into warmer months you will not need to keep all of your sweaters, jackets and wool cardigans out. You can put aside what you want to put away for later but you will want to keep a few warmer pieces out for those in between days.

What To Keep & What To Toss

If you haven’t worn it in a year, you probably won’t wear it now. If you haven’t but you still feel like you like it, then try making an outfit with it. If you can’t seem to figure out how you would wear it then it’s time to part with it. Denim is a different story, don’t just toss it because it’s old. If the pieces still fit you well they can always be refashioned. Breathe new life into items by using scissors to give them the frayed look or turning an old pair of jeans into shorts. T-shirts are easy to hoard so separate your vintage and favorite go to pieces from the trendy two seasons ago t shirt that you don’t even remember buying.

Take The Time To Organize

Use slim hangers to make more room and create a layout that makes it easy for you to navigate. Try putting together outfits and taking pictures of them to reference later. This will help you use everything in your closet more often so that you don’t get into the habit of wearing the same pieces over and over again.

Create 4 Piles

Separate clothes into a trash pile, donate pile, sell pile and dry clean pile. It’s easier to part with clothes once you know someone else will get to use them or if you can get some money from them. If clothes are no longer wearable, meaning they have tears or rips you can toss them. Other’s that aren’t of much value you can donate by dropping them off to a charity like Goodwill, Dress for Success or The Salvation Army. For the ones that cost you a pretty penny and you think someone else may love it, you can list online on sites like Bib + Tuck or take them to stores that sell gently used clothes like Plato’s Closet. Lastly, the clothes that need to be cleaned should be taken to be dry cleaned and stored properly so that they won’t get moth eaten while in storage.

Closet Inspiration 🙂

closet 2 closet 3 closet 4 Image Source: Pinterestou’re not overwhelmed and to make sure you get it done right. 1 Image Source: Lauren Messiah

Start By Taking Everything Out

You want to be able to clean out the spaces holding your clothes. After the space is vacuumed and dusted you will be able to see what you have and can start putting them into piles.

Sort & Prioritize

Once everything is laid out for you to see, it will be easier to divide and conquer. Since we are moving into warmer months you will not need to keep all of your sweaters, jackets and wool cardigans out. You can put aside what you want to put away for later but you will want to keep a few warmer pieces out for those in between days.

What To Keep & What To Toss

If you haven’t worn it in a year, you probably won’t wear it now. If you haven’t but you still feel like you like it, then try making an outfit with it. If you can’t seem to figure out how you would wear it then it’s time to part with it. Denim is a different story, don’t just toss it because it’s old. If the pieces still fit you well they can always be refashioned. Breathe new life into items by using scissors to give them the frayed look or turning an old pair of jeans into shorts. T-shirts are easy to hoard so separate your vintage and favorite go to pieces from the trendy two seasons ago t shirt that you don’t even remember buying.

Take The Time To Organize

Use slim hangers to make more room and create a layout that makes it easy for you to navigate. Try putting together outfits and taking pictures of them to reference later. This will help you use everything in your closet more often so that you don’t get into the habit of wearing the same pieces over and over again.

Create 4 Piles

Separate clothes into a trash pile, donate pile, sell pile and dry clean pile. It’s easier to part with clothes once you know someone else will get to use them or if you can get some money from them. If clothes are no longer wearable, meaning they have tears or rips you can toss them. Other’s that aren’t of much value you can donate by dropping them off to a charity like Goodwill, Dress for Success or The Salvation Army. For the ones that cost you a pretty penny and you think someone else may love it, you can list online on sites like Bib + Tuck or take them to stores that sell gently used clothes like Plato’s Closet. Lastly, the clothes that need to be cleaned should be taken to be dry cleaned and stored properly so that they won’t get moth eaten while in storage.

Closet Inspiration 🙂

1f437b6f3d77d8c40f9f9ecdc0314d93 3f1b44fe92dc2eddb022a2a4ee28ad3f fe3ad5b0ab85c2b970dbd84ab1f1a76a Image Source: Pinterest

What To Wear To Spring And Summer Weddings

It's officially wedding season, you’re calendar is quickly filling up and the invitations just keep pouring in. Now it’s time to decide on what to wear. Whether you're heading off to some tropical destination wedding or attending a society social, we have the some great wedding guest fashion inspiration for you here! Traditional Church Wedding: You’ll want to keep your look classy and conservative. P1-Pink-Peonies Image Source: Crossroadstrading.com  woman in city Image Source: Memorandum.com Laid-Back Backyard Wedding: You can keep your outfit casual with some walkable shoes and dress your look up with accessories.P5-Bows-and-Depos Image Source: CrossRoadsTrading.com A-Little-Dash-of-Darling-Perfect-Wedding-Guest Image Source: The Dash Of Darling Tropical Destination Beach Wedding: Tropical weekend getaways call for bold pops of color, bohemian extras & quirky accessories. summer_guest_26 Image Source:  HappyWed.com summer_guest_15  Image Source: Pinterest corla dress Image Source: Pinterest Society Social Wedding: Sleek silhouettes and sky-high stilettos. black dress Image Source: Trendwave.com 23-amazing-spring-wedding-guest-outfit-ideas-weddingomania-1000-int Image Source: Weddbook.com glittery-gold Image Source: HappyWed.com Outdoor Garden Party Wedding: Go with floral prints and ladylike accessories. off-the-shoulder-dress-for-spring-683x1024 Image Source: Dallas Style Blog woman posing Image Source: Extra Petite  spring_guest_04 Image Source: Weddbook.com

5 Tips To Find Your Prom Dress

April marks the beginning of prom season for the teen world. While prom dress shopping can be super stressful, it doesn’t have to be. This can be a wonderful mother-daughter bonding activity and we wanted to share some suggestions along with a prom dress guide by body type to help you find the perfect dress for your prom night.

Call Ahead & Start Shopping Early

You’ll want to start as early as you can so that you will have a wide selection of dresses to choose from. Also, if you have to order you a dress to get your size or color you want to have time for that along with alterations if they are needed. Call the store and ask if they carry dresses and to let them know you are coming in. If you can make an appointment you should do so to get that one-on-one attention.

Come Prepared

You want to wear the undergarments that you would be wearing during prom night. That way if you need something you can ask the sales associate what they would recommend with the style of dress you are purchasing. This is essential so you know exactly what your dress will look like the night of, you don’t want your bra straps hanging out on prom night. Bring a pair of heels with you to try on dresses. You want to make sure the dress is tall enough or if it needs to be altered.

Don’t Be Afraid To Try On Everything

You may think you won’t like a dress but you’ll never know until you try it on. Sometimes you may think a dress wouldn’t be flattering and it looks amazing on you. Some dresses may not look like much on the rack but once off the hanger it may look stunning on.  You may have your heart set on one style but after trying on an another dress you find that style flatters your body much more.

Be Open To Different Colors & Styles

Trust me, there have been so many times that i’ve had my heart set on a specific color and style only to end up getting something completely different. Be open to trying colors that may not be what you were imagining, you may end up surprising yourself.

Keep Your Shopping Party Small

You don’t want to go shopping for your prom dress with a large group. While it may sound like fun, it may be more of a challenge then you may think. Go with one or two people that you know you can find something you love and feel great in with.  You want someone who will give their honest opinion,  moms are the best with this and will always tell you the truth.

Prom Dress Style By Body Type

Girls Going to the Prom Outside

Apple: The midsection is where you want to keep the attention away from so you want to look for a dress that has a high empire waist. You can also wear an embellished top that draws the eye to your upper body.

Short: You may not want to go for a longer dress but instead a more petite dress. Maybe something that comes knee length and doesn’t make you look shorter.

Tall: You will be able to wear a full-length dress and  these dresses look great on girls of a certain height. You can accentuate your long and lean physique with a fitted dress or go with a long flowing gown or dress with a slit.

Slim: Look for fitted gowns or gowns with a cinched waist or belt that will help give you curves and dimension.

Hourglass: Girls with an hourglass shape tend to be curvy and can wear virtually any style of dress. Your bust and hips are proportionate to each other and your body is balanced. You will want to accentuate your best asset, which is usually your waist.

Pear: You will want a dress that has a fitted top and fuller bottom. You’re going to want to stay away from mermaid-style gowns. With a pear body type your waist is your best asset, so be sure to flaunt it! You want to add volume to your upper body, emphasize your small waist and de-emphasize your lower body to create a balanced silhouette. We recommend a dress with a fitted open neck or strapless top and full or A-line skirt to hide a wider hip.

 

 

 

 

Apricot Lane Featured In Mount Pleasant Magazine

Feel Good Fashion: Apricot Lane

Apricot-Lane-picLeft to right: Shelby Kerr, Marlene Koedding, Heather Calk, Danae White, Sandra Barnes, Ashley Herrin and Nicole Westberry.

Apricot Lane Boutique in Mount Pleasant Towne Centre is bringing both fashion and philanthropy to our community and beyond. Embracing a “think globally, act locally” mind-set, Sandra Barnes, owner of the trendsetting boutique Apricot Lane, is shaking things up in the world of retail and social justice. Working for the greater good, she proves being altruistic is one trend that never goes out of style.

“I know the opportunity to give back will be the most rewarding aspect of this job,” said Barnes, who runs the shop with her daughter, Ashley Herrin. “We really look forward to getting involved in the community and making a positive difference.”

Among the flowy bohemian tunics and suede fringe boots, you’ll find handmade bracelets by 3Strands Global – an organization that rescues victims of sex trafficking and provides them with an outlet for creative expression and steady income. At first glance, the beautiful bracelets are eye-catching, but they become even more significant once you consider their source. A mission trip to Cambodia, in which Sandra crossed paths with Apricot Lane franchise developer and philanthropist Ken Petersen, would set her on an unlikely journey into merchandising and activism.

“That trip was truly life-changing,” said Barnes. “When you see children as young as 6 sleeping on concrete, you feel the call to help.”

And help, Barnes has – not only by carrying a unique array of colorful beaded or woven bracelets made by 3Strands Global but by encouraging charity right in her own backyard.

“Fashion for a Cause” parties offer guests mouthwatering appetizers and cocktails, with a portion of the proceeds of items purchased going to a charity of their choice.

“We want to donate to a diverse group of organizations,” said Barnes, “Whether it’s a local library, team or ASPCA, we want to be able to help a lot of organizations meet their goals.”

Carrying brands that often inhabit the hippest Southern California boutiques, Apricot Lane brings the best of the West to Mount Pleasant. With 70 percent of stock imported from companies based in The Golden State, the caliber of couture is high and surprisingly affordable.

From flared blue jean bell-bottoms to distressed leather jackets, the array of styles offered makes it easier than ever to embrace your inner fashionista. Whether you are looking for a beachy sundress or a killer accessory to tie together an already rocking ensemble, Apricot Lane has got you covered.

Unlike franchises that are limited in what they can offer, Barnes has the freedom to stock her shelves with whatever she feels shoppers will desire. She even encourages customers to come to her with requests. Making sure to bring in new inventory every week, Apricot Lane is truly leading the way in fresh, fierce fashion. Carrying buzzworthy brands, this local shop is sure to keep the ladies of the Lowcountry looking on point.

Since opening in December, Apricot Lane continues to attract a wide range of multi-generational shoppers. Daughters, mothers and grandmothers can be seen sipping champagne while fully reaping the benefits of retail therapy.

Escape into a world where stackable bracelets, showstopping statement necklaces and Piko tops abound. From fitness to fancy, there is no limit to just what a trip to Apricot Lane can bring. Stroll in today. You’ll be glad you did.

To learn more, visit apricotlaneboutique.com/store/mountpleasant or call 843-971-1800.

By Kalene McCort.

Photo provided.

Originally posted in Mount Pleasant Magazine

5 Tips For Layering Jewelry

When it comes to jewelry, sometimes more is better. If done right, adding more and layering jewelry can transform the boring into a statement look. You don’t want to just pile everything on but strategically layer each piece just right. Whether you’re just getting started or a pro just looking for some inspiration, here are 5 tips to layering jewelry just right. BAUBLE_BAR_BIG_LOVE_CUFF_BRACELETS Image Source: SheFinds.com Don’t be afraid to mix and match your metals Your stack should feel like you. Don’t worry about what tradition says about pairing only gold with gold and silver with silver. Instead, feel free to pair gold with silver or rose gold to create a unique, edgy or classy look. girl back Image Source: whowhatwear.com brown jacket Image Source: suziegaffney.com Wanna Arm Party Candy Swag Bracelets Stack Jewelry Mixed Metal Elle Yeah Elodie Russo Blog Post Fashion Beauty Lifestyle H&M Michael Kors Stella and Dot UK Image Source: ELLE yeah - A Fashion, Beauty and Lifestyle Blog Pair old vintage pieces with the newer modern ones Blending a new dainty ring with a vintage statement ring creates a lovely contrast. rings Image Source: www.livingly.com rings 2 Image Source: www.livingly.com Mix short and long necklaces When layering necklaces, you want to make sure your pieces are spaced out evenly. You can pair strands that are 1 to 2 inches apart in length. So you can start with a strand that is 16 inches, and then the next would be 18 inches. Then to complete the look, add the longer strand that could be 20 inches or even 22 inches. This works well with a few different dainty necklaces. necklace Image Source: www.brit.co Layering-Necklaces-2_Fashion-Style-Mag Image Source: devillefinejewelry.com necklace 2 Image Source: www.mintjewelry.co Pops of color help the stack stand out Have fun and don’t be afraid to wear different color stones together. You can mix and match similar-colored gemstone rings and create a simple ombre look. If you’re worried that your layers aren’t working, you can just start with a metal and two colors like teal, coral and gold. You could also layer one plain chain and then a colorful stone necklace to make it stand out and then another longer plain chain to add length. sweater Image Source: www.thefashionspot.com silver Image Source: www.luxandconcord.com Necklace 3 Image Source: gemgossip.com Pair chunky chain-link necklaces with dainty chains Break up heavy chain-link pieces by pairing them with other thinner chain pieces of varying lengths. You can also add in a delicate pendant piece to the mix. necklaces-for-every-neckline Image Source: blog.bodeoo.com long necklace Image Source: vogueinfatuation.com