Beaches, bikinis, summer 2013 here we come!

It’s that time of year again; the sun is shinning, the tanning salons are booked, and the bikinis are coming out. The new and fabulous bikini trends hitting the beach in 2013 vary from classic to classy, with some sexy in between. Retro bikinis are making a comeback for 2013. This style includes high-rise bottoms, which are great for fuller body types and are also not as skimpy as our typical itsy bitsy, teeny weenie bikini. Floral swimwear is a trend that will never go out of style. These bikinis typically come in bright colors, different sized floral patterns, and various styles. Lingerie-like bikinis are a new trend that will be appearing on the beaches all around the world. Underwire tops, multiple straps that give off a bondage feel, sheer textiles, and one pieces with plunging neck lines and cutouts are all apart of this sexy style. The 80’s are also making a comeback with vibrant colors, zippered details, and scuba inspired styles. Now that you are dying to try all these new trends, some of you may be wondering which style is best for your figure. Luckily there is a style that suites all body types. If you have a triangle figure, which means smaller on top and bigger on the bottom like Rihanna, you should try patterns on top and solids on the bottom to visually balance your body. If you have a short torso cutouts lengthen the body and the retro trend is perfect for you because the high-waisted bottoms show off your legs. If you are on the taller side, however, ruffled bikinis take on an hourglass shape, which is ideal for you. I know you’re almost feeling bikini ready now, but the only think left is that perfect bikini body. Well, I may know some tricks to help with that. Drinking a lot of water before, on, and after the beach keeps your body flushed, full, and lean. Unfortunately, drinks you should stay away from are bubbly drinks, such as champagne and beer, which cause bloating. Even shutting your computer at night will allow you to walk around the house or do errands, which believe it or not, can take off a few pounds. Accessorizing is another great way to trick the eye and appear slender. If you’re shorter, wedges will give your legs a longer look. A drop necklace will show off you cleavage and cover-ups can show off your greatest assets, while hiding your others. So go to your nearest Bloomingdales, Victorias Secret, or Nastygal to buy these new bikini trends. And with all of these fabulous tips, I can't wait to see you all on the beach in your trendiest swimwear.

Pumpkin is the New Bacon

“I’ll have a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich. No, wait! Hold the bacon, I’ll have pumpkin sauce instead.” Well, maybe putting pumpkin sauce on your sandwich is a little bit extreme, but seasonal flavors of everything pumpkin is back and stronger than ever. Not only can one enjoy the nostalgic activities of pumpkin picking and carving, but also smell and taste the mouth watering flavors of pumpkin right within the city. Many local stores, harvest festivals, coffee shops, and even bars within the Philadelphia area trying all things pumpkin related. After much consideration and taste testing, we have narrowed down some of the best places to go and get your pumpkin on. If you are an adventurous person who is looking for a fun excursion out with friends or family or even by yourself where you can taste and buy some pumpkin goodies than the Reading Terminal Market is the place for you. There, you can enjoy picking out pumpkins, sipping on some hot cider, go on a hayride, and most importantly, devour some freshly baked pumpkin donuts as well as glazed, cinnamon sugar and cream filled donuts – just blogging about them makes my mouth water. A trip to the Reading Terminal Market is a must trip for the fall season, or any season at that. There is always something unique and exciting to do all year long. We have to say, we wish this pumpkin obsession would last for longer than one Fall season, since these pumpkins are way to fabulous. But, with pumpkin recipes galore, just because Fall is over doesn't mean you still can't eat our favorite treat.  

When to Sparkle and Holiday Attire

Do you ever see something glistening in the corner of your eye when your window-shopping at the mall? You walk up to see what it is and of course you spotted a beautiful sparkly gold dress that you just wish you had somewhere to wear. Well now you do! With New Years Eve and holiday parties on the horizon sparkles are a perfect accessory for festive attire. The best part about sequins is you can wear them in a dress, skirt, pant, or top, and if you love the look, but aren’t brave enough to bear all in sparkle there are tons of accessories with just that little spark of holiday spirit. 

Besides sparkles another perfect trend to show off at a party is the one shoulder dress and long-sleeve mini. Jumpsuits are have also been making its way back onto the streets. A sequined one with black pumps would be a perfect New Years Eve look that is unique and fun. Of course there is always the LBD (little black dress), which is a classic every woman should own in her closet. An LBD is timeless and can be used for any occasion, not only for the holidays. In fact an LBD is perfect for dinner with the family and a party with friends, and to add that holiday spark all you need is a chunky necklace, glittery shoes, or even patterned tights. The little black dress is definitely my favorite because there is one that is perfect for every body type, one that comes in every length, and one that has every possible sleeve and style. 

  

Arcadia boutique has a huge selection of dresses in all price ranges, which is always my first stop every time I go shopping for a special occasion. Old City also has tons of shopping with one-of-a-kind pieces that will allow you to stand out and shine on New Years Eve. So if it were up to me I would go out there find that perfect LBD and dazzle it up with some amazing pumps and sparkly accessories. Happy shopping ladies!

The Titanic Exhibit has Sailed into The Franklin Institute

The City of Brotherly Love is known for their many museums that host fabulous exhibits and attractions. However, they change rapidly so when a new exhibit comes to town we Philadelphians need to take advantage of them! Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition has sailed in to the Franklin Institute on November 10^th and will be docked until April 7^th. Being that it is the 100^th year anniversary of when the ships sinking, this is a very special time for the exhibit to be showcased. In case you aren’t familiar with the 1912 story of the Titanic, was thought to be the “unsinkable ship” however, on it’s very first voyage it hit an iceberg at 11:40 p.m. In all 328 bodies were found dead, many of them, however, were left to the sea. The final resting place of the epic ship is in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean at 13,000 feet. Divers have been able to recover small parts of the ship. There are 300 legendary artifacts being showcased that were collected from the ships debris field. If you want to get a sense of what life must have been like during the 1912’s and what this ship looked like in its glory days then you must visit this exhibit! I know I’ll be there. And with admission starting at eight dollars, with discounted prices for groups up to 25% off, there really is no reason to miss out on this exciting attraction.  

Donating for Days

 “IT’S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR!” Well, the holidays are meant to be. It’s when you go manic to get that ‘oh so perfect gift’ for your children, lover, friend, or even sister-in-law that drives you crazy. However, let’s take a breath from all the “Whobilation” (a term all you Grinch fans should know) and look around to see how commercialized the holidays became. Everywhere you turn there are endless streams of commercials on TV, ads in magazines and billboards, showing which stores have the best deals for Christmas. Researchers estimated that the average American family will spend $271 on Christmas gifts per child this year. But you know, there are other ways to “spread holiday cheer for all to hear” as Buddy the Elf would say.

There are so many ways to give back, whether you give your time or give donations, you will help spread the holiday cheer in The City of Brotherly Love. Helping children get holiday spirit is such an amazing gift and The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia is an excellent place to volunteer or to make donations. Philabundance is a great organization where you can hand deliver food to people in need. The Hunger Relief Center and Community Food Center are also extension programs of Philabundance, where you can further help those in need. The Lombard Soup Kitchen, in Philadelphia, needs many volunteers to cook meals for those at local shelters. Also, Habitat for Humanity has volunteers help build homes for those who are less fortunate. After the devastating Hurricane Sandy, that ravaged the Northeast, rebuilding is key for families during this holiday season. With support and involvement in the community, you can experience joy while filling others with hope! 

The Career Wardrobe - Dressing to Impress

As D&M’s, we know everything about style “dressing for success,” but the real experts are found at the Career Wardrobe, a leading Philadelphia based organization that provides unique solutions for women gaining a second chance in the workplace. The Career Wardrobe’s mission is “to empower women in transition by providing programs that inspire the confidence necessary to achieve self-sufficiency and pursue a productive career.” It’s about a lot more than just the clothing: “We do this by providing professional work attire, educational programs, and networking tools and opportunities.” It is a total package design to Impress.

Dressing to Impress clearly includes professional attire, but it is about a lot more, being confident. Trained stylists use each appointment as an opportunity to educate women about the importance of professional appearance, personal responsibility, and business etiquette.  They help each client select an interview appropriate outfit suitable for their desired position. Once a position is secured, the client can return for several other mix and match pieces to begin a work-appropriate wardrobe.

Gently worn professional attire and  uniforms are accepted through an ongoing program of clothing drives. Items that are not suitable for professional purposes are sold through TheWardrobe Boutique. Offering everything from formal to casual clothing at discounted prices, the boutique is located at the corner of 19th St. and Spring Garden St. in Philadelphia. 

In addition they provide other services and workshops, such as Suit Up! and Gateway to Success. If you have a keen eye for styling and love shopping this is the perfect place for you to volunteer. The Career Wardrobe offers a variety of volunteer opportunities: fundraising and event planning, facilitating workshops, and my personal favorite, becoming a fashion assistant, aiding the clients in their search for their perfect interview ensemble. The Career Wardrobe needs you and your donations to continue to strive and succeed in helping women to dress to Impress.For more information on how to donate and/or volunteer visit the Career Wardrobe.

First Fridays

Philly has so much art, culture, and fashion in which to indulge. It’s all about getting out and experiencing what this great city has to offer. A favored event to jump into the action is called “First Friday”. “First Friday” goes down monthly on the first Friday of the month from 5-9PM in Olde City. This neighborhood has many galleries and every street has something going on. Vendors are always showcasing their latest goodies, boutiques are bringing in new customers, and the restaurants are some of the city’s best. The scene is causal, light, and the options of entertainment seem endless. Attend “First Friday” you have nothing to lose and all to gain.

Drexel University’s Design and Merchandising alumni have a strong presence in Philadelphia.   
Two stores in Olde CIty, Smak Parlour located at 219 Market Street and Sioux Zanne Messix located at 54 N 3rd Street are both owned by D&M alumni.

The event is so successful that even Northern Liberties has gotten in on the fun. Check out the NoLibs site to get a feel for the Northern Liberties scene. Here you can see which places are offering a 10% discount from 5-9PM. In NoLibs a D&M Alum works for Duke and Winston located at 633 N 2nd Street and a D&M instructor owns Arcadia Boutique located at 819 N 2nd Street. This really is one of the best events to happen in Philadelphia. Not only is it FREE, but it happens all year round rain or shine. So get out there and experience it at first hand, you won’t regret it.