Early New Year's Resolution - Blog More Often

This is my goal of the year 2010 - to keep my blog up to date and way more fascinating than it has been this year. Stay close as I know that 2010 is truly going to be year of wonderful fashion, life altering miracles, and just plain better judgement. You live and you learn and this whole blogging thing was new to me this year. I hope I have learned and can implement some better content, articles, pics, and more this coming year. So I say a huge "THANK YOU" to those who have actually read my blog this year. I do hope there was something that you did like or something that helped you in business or life or that you simply just enjoyed reading it.

Looking back on the start of Aesthetic Design Style in February of 2008 we have already come a long way. All of this started as a thought in my head and just evolved from there - one tiny baby step at a time. We now have 7 of the most amazing designers and women that you could ever meet. One of the 7 hasn't been announced yet but she is just as magnificent as the others and I cannot wait until the reveal. That's what is so wonderful about having your own business - I only have to have the lines and designers that I am in love with. I have the power to choose and help and be a part of the things that I feel are the best and that I feel are the best for others. It is such an empowering feeling and a great feeling to try and help others.

For the remainder of this year, let's make it priority to do just that - help others. I know we are in the midst of one of the most materialistic times of year but let's not lose focus on what it is all about. No matter what your race, creed, religion, culture, etc., everyone has a sense of self and a sense of helping others. It is in the simple ways that people are changed. Just a smile to someone on the street or a handshake does more for people than you'll ever know. Be conscious of the little things and be thankful for ALL of them.

Until then: "Nothing great has been and nothing great can be accomplished without passion."

The Launch of ShaSam3

I am so excited and proud to introduce a new line of custom, vintage, one-of-a-kind, rings from the line ShaSam3! Not only are these rings for the not so faint of heart but they are a sight to behold.

The Custom Collection features baubles, rhinestones, and buttons all configured in unconventional ways. The Vintage Collection features gorgeous vintage broaches that have been re-purposed and designed into rings. There were just not enough affordable large rings out there for me so I took matters into my own hands and started creating. I have personally fallen in love with each and every piece which as a designer is a HUGE no no - but I can't help it. As I create these one-of-a-kind pieces I am thinking of my clients but at the same time I would (and do) wear every piece!!!

You can purchase these creations directly from Aesthetic Design Style. So shop, fall in love, and enjoy!!

Until then: "Part of what is so unshackling was the whole aspect that when you're studying art or design, the answer's in you, somewhere." - Tim Gunn (LOVE him, by the way!)

Open Minds and Open Hearts for Fashion

Nikki Blaine Couture

D. Lamont Couture

Denderah

Rags II Riteous

I attended the "1st Annual Holy Decore Fashion Experience" this weekend for the mere fact that my gorgeous niece was one of the models in the show. And for the fact that she happened to be modeling for one of my very favorite local designers - Nikki Blaine Couture!

I was pleasantly surprised at the incredible fashion that was to be had at this show. The designers hailed from Indianapolis and I was wondering how I missed a few of these names. Not only was the fashion independent and unique, but it was beautifully constructed and had the ingenuity of a new generation of designers. What I also loved about this show was that there was a balance of lines for men and women that I liked equally. I will say that in past shows I've attended I hadn't been extremely impressed with some of the mens lines but this one was an exception.

Besides being a bit biased to Nikki Blaine I thoroughly enjoyed Rags II Riteous, Denderah, and D. Lamont Couture. These were my top 4! They used everything from neckties to wool crepe from hounds tooth to leather and in some beautiful ways. Goes to show that sometimes the very thing you've been looking for truly is in your own backyard. Look for more to come from the aforementioned designers in the near future - from me especially!

Until then:
“We are shaped and fashioned by what we love.” Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Nikki Blaine Couture

The End of Summer Means HUGE Savings

As we all know the sight of opaque tights, knee high boots, tweed, suede, and quilting in our favorite shops are true signs that summer will soon be a distant memory - once again. Yes that also means it's time for me to wade through my closet and box up my "summer" clothes and shoes and bust out my "winter" clothes suit cases. As I've gotten much wiser (not older, just wiser) I have eliminated my trepidation about this whole unavoidable task by making smarter and better quality choices about how I view my wardrobe.

There are a few pieces I have that can actually carry me from summer to fall to winter to spring and back again. They are investment pieces but they are worth it in the long run. Especially now that I have 3 daughters and don't have 4 hours to get dressed let alone 15 minutes for myself - but that's what I signed up for!!! Don't get me wrong, there are few true fall/winter pieces that I just couldn't live without that would NEVER do for spring/summer. But the pieces I do keep out year round can easily be paired with many things to create unique looks - AND no one knows - well, until now.

Changing up your accessories and adding color is the easiest and most inexpensive way to stretch your dollar and your wardrobe. This works in all seasons. And like I always say "accessories always fit!". No matter how many kids you have or how many times you get married or divorced - accessories always keep their shape!

A great way to stock up on these timeless wardrobe necessities is to catch the end of season sales - BUT this can be tricky. You MUST find accessories that are unique, good quality, and are stylish NOT TOO TRENDY! If you get caught in the trap of trends then you will find yourself on the fast track to being out of fashion before you know it. Knowing how to incorporate a trend here and there is always good. Trend overkill, on the other hand, is the true testament to someone who may still be trying to find their own personal style by following what they feel everyone else is doing. Hence they never find their own style identity.

I happen to have 3 fabulous offers for you to get started on your new outlook on fashion:

• Brynn Capella Handbags is offering below wholesale pricing on sample sale items. This is a fantastic way to try out a new chic handbag that no one else has at recession friendly pricing. The quality of these bags is undenied and once you get one - you'll be back for her fall line - trust!



• Erin Braxton Loungewear is offering her wonderful line of loungewear at an exceptional discount. Just use promo code EBSUMMER25 at checkout and receive $25 off your order of $100 or more. You'll never sleep in your husband's sweats again - trust!



• Chic Gems Etc., is teaming up with us, Aesthetic Design Style, and offering 50% off to all of our customers through Monday, August 17th! You can only get the discount by using code ADS50 at checkout. Also with any $100 (after discount) purchase you receive a FREE pair of pearl earrings! Now who can pass that up? Chic Gems Etc., is clearing out merchandise to make room for her two new lines: The Signature Line and The Couture Line - you do NOT want to miss that launch - trust!

So, you see we've gotten you off to a GREAT start for fall. Take advantage of the wonderful offers above and off you go!

Until then: “The goal I seek is to have people refine their style through my clothing without having them become victims of fashion.” Giorgio Armani

Aesthetic Design Style Falls Into RAIN 8.1.09

Falls into

On
Saturday, August 1st
5:00p – 8:00p
It’s time to start thinking fall! Come discover the best independent fashion talent you’ve never heard of – yet! Erin Braxton, Chic Gems Etc., Brynn Capella Handbags, Evlove Intimates, Bags of Blessing, and Mattanda. We’re bringing independent fashion to RAIN Boutique in Broad Ripple located at 839 E. Westfield Blvd., Indianapolis, IN

Unique fashion, beautiful ambiance, beverages, special discounts, and desserts – what more could you want?

Sincerely, Aesthetic Design Style & RAIN Boutique

Art of July

We did it! Through the showers, through the thunder, through the running font colors, we represented (soggily) and took independent fashion to the streets - literally. Next year vinyl banners!! Thanks to Aesthetic Design Style's faithful friends, fans, and supporters (and my family of course) the Art of July parade on July 4th was a HUGE success! With wonderful organizations like the Fountain Square Arts Council these types of activities help to catapult the Arts community higher and higher. Thanks to Kelli Stafford and Dan McNeal and the rest of the participants in the first annual parade - we did it and next year will be even greater!

Until Then: “Art produces ugly things which frequently become beautiful with time. Fashion, on the other hand, produces beautiful things which always become ugly with time.” Jean Cocteau

Thinking Outside the Box

It has been too long since I have been able to spend the much needed time on my own special blog here for Aesthetic Design Style. So hello - again!

We are all about the cliche of "thinking outside the box". That's what this is all about - independent fashion and creative people and unlimited talent - it's all about taking the unconventional to that next level.

This means taking a different perspective with all we do here at Aesthetic Design Style. Not only do we obsess about and love fashion but we believe in the independence of people, open minded ways of thinking, giving back in any way we can, and taking care of one another. I know you're thinking "oh kumbaya" but it's true. In these times of economic crisis and just plain uncertainty about what we are to do with our own lives and our world - we all need each other.

I just found out through one of my facebook friends that Bill Gates began Microsoft during a recession. Wow! Think about that for a minute - hearing people say that you can do whatever you set your mind to is great BUT to see the outcome of someone who did just that AND he is one of most giving, most intelligent, and most caring people on the planet - well, that just gives me even more hope and more confidence to make something more of my own life for my family too.

We've thrown out the old notion of "marketing" and "PR" and we're kind of going it alone here at Aesthetic Design Style. We are throwing caution to the wind and thinking outside the box. We are purely word of mouth, we are our word, we are participating in parades, find us on facebook, twitter, Linked In, Merchant Circle, and we are truly starting a grassroots movement of creative people, ideas, and fashion. Oh fashion. Just the word excites me and makes me realize what I am supposed to do with my life. Finding your passion is key and there is NOTHING like the feeling of actually finding it to send your life into an entirely new direction - one you may never have thought of before.

I usually close with a quote from someone in the fashion world but this one was just too good to pass up. So, until then: "I don't know the formula for success but the formula for failure is trying to please everyone" Bill Cosby

Loungewear, Cover Ups, and Gym Shorts?

Erin Braxton has it all and then some! The most amazing fabrics, styles, and ways to be cute AND comfortable can be found in her line. She has graciously decided to team up with Aesthetic Design Style in order to bring more attention to her vision and expand her brand into other areas of the country. We are honored to help and so excited to push her out in front of our independent fashion revolution.

The best sellers in Erin's line happen to be the Knotted Chemise, the Hoody Tunic, and the Gym Short (which are just ADORABLE!) Not only are these pieces great for around the house but you can run to the grocery in them and no one will look at you twice (only in a good way because you look so hot in them!) or even know it is "loungewear". Unlike your usual snowman pajama pants, fuzzy slippers, and grandmother's robe - please don't! Her cover ups are perfect for the beach or any resort and a few pieces can even be worn as ready-to-wear - The Kimono Wrap Robe is so fantastic I can't even tell you! There are never ending situations or occasions you can wear Erin Braxton. It is so versatile and beautiful that you feel good just hanging out on your very own patio.

I do have to warn you though - you may develop very high self confidence and perhaps a bit of arrogance wearing her designs so watch out for a lot of attention coming your way!

Until then: “The dress must follow the body of a woman, not the body following the shape of the dress.” - Hubert de Givenchy

Independent Designers Putting "You" First

Being alloted the freedom to customize fashion lets you put your own special spin on the look you want to portray. Independent designers are taking that to heart and modeling their lines after this concept.

Chic Gems etc. has just launched a new line of "Design Your Own" gems just for you. YOU are the designer and YOU get exactly what YOU want! There is the Custom Pearl & Crystal Necklace Collection, the Custom Pearl & Chain Necklace Collection, the Custom Triple Floating Pearl Necklace Collection, and the Custom Pearl & Crystal Bracelet collection! This is a fun way to design something for yourself or for a gift for someone else - especially if you have a friend who is "so hard to buy for"!

Evlove Intimates is another fantastic line that you can design around what YOU really want. Intimate apparel is, well, intimate so it is nice to be able to choose the style, fabric, trim, and accessories that you are in love with and work with your body for the best fit. And, again, it is FUN! There are literally hundreds of combinations you can create using your own imagination.

I hosted a bachelorette party for one of my girlfriends and had Evlove Intimates there as well. We felt so important and had a blast designing our own "undies" and loungewear as well. Then two weeks later my own little creation showed up in the mail and it was like getting a special gift all over again.

So, you don't like to see yourself coming and going around town? THIS is the way to go! If there is that dress you have been searching all over to accessorize or if you have a big anniversary coming up and you want to put your husband's initials somewhere only he will see then you can do that! Visit Chic Gems etc. and Evlove Intimates today and bring out the inner designer in you.

Until Then: “All I want is the best of everything and there's very little of that left” - Cecil Beaton

Fashion and Security

A funny thing happened to me just the other day - I realized I finally really know who I am now and what I want out of life. I know it took about 33 years but better late than never. When I was younger I thought I knew who I was or at least thought that is what I projected to everyone else. I was wrong and it probably showed too. Three daughters, about seven jobs, and one big reality check later, I have found what it is all about. Security - being secure with yourself, your family, your style, and your insecurities. Yes, you have to be secure with your insecurities. Everyone has them so embrace them - don't dwell on them - we know they are there - but try and live with them. You'll find that the positive aspects of your life will far outweigh the negative. You have to be aware of all of the components that make you - you!

A large part of what helped me have my epiphany was fashion. May sound silly to some but it's true. I was in Broad Ripple Vintage (because it always comforts me and makes me feel good) and it came to me - fashion is the ONE constant thing that has always been a part of my life. No matter who has come and gone (family or friends), my parents divorce, the deaths of two of the most important women in my life - I could always depend on fashion.

My paternal grandmother would sit for hours and sketch beautiful women in fabulous dresses for me when I was little, my maternal grandmother had trunks FULL of my great and great great grandmother's clothes along with VOGUE from the 30's and other fashion magazines dating back to the turn of the century, my great great Aunt Rose was born in the early 1900's and refused to wear dresses so she made her own pants (wide leg, high-waisted, sailor style with the six buttons at the top-original -FANTASTIC) and wore them with never a regret, my mom used to make her own clothes and my dad's jumpsuits back in the 70's, and my dad is the one who would take me shopping when I was little because my mom hated it - she still avoids it like the plague (I find it ironic she's my mother).

I've often said before that fashion is just "clothes or accessories" to some people - and that is fine. To me it is a part of life - it is my life - it's my passion - it's my job - it's one of my loves. There is nothing like finding that one piece you have been searching for that just makes you feel good. Fashion isn't superficial as others may see it. It's culture, it's history, it's art, it's our future, and it's our present. So along with instilling in my girls a sense of security, intelligence, and self-confidence, I hope that I sub-consciously instill the gift of style as did my ancestors in me. It wasn't something that was passed down in some big ceremony - no it was something that was subtle and alluring and passionate and it glistened through their eyes, their pictures, and their legacies. I found that the most tenacious women in my family had the strongest sense of who they were as women along with the BEST PERSONAL STYLE. To me, fashion is security in who we are and who we want to become.

Until Then: “Elegance is not the prerogative of those who have just escaped from adolescence, but of those who have already taken possession of their future.” Coco Chanel

Template of Fashion - Vintage Fashion Library

I happened upon the most fascinating site one day as I was looking for different eras of fashion. Vintage Fashion Library. It then hit me that THIS is what fashion is all about. The nuts and bolts of the industry. The template upon which all things fabulous are made and are created. There are so many times when I have a very specific idea of an outfit I want in my head. It never completely translates to what I see in stores or online.

My wedding dress excursion is the perfect example. I love to mix modern with a vintage flair and sometimes there just isn't that one piece that completes the entire look. There are things that come close but never exact. I wanted a wedding dress with sleeves. I wanted either a bell sleeve or a large bishop sleeve such as was prominent in the 30's and 40's. NO wedding dresses even have sleeves anymore. Let alone a long sleeve. I saw so many strapless, spaghetti strap, or halter dresses I wanted to pass out! Apparently I was not part of the "norm" who loves strapless. Anyway, as I reviewed the wonderful period specific patterns at Vintage Fashion Library I found my dress! I could not believe it. Had I seen this site 5 years prior, I would have had the perfect dress for my perfect day. (My day was perfect and my dress turned out alright). Makes me want to set up a vow renewal - not just for the dress, of course!

Using patterns is a unique way to put your own spin on the current fashion trends or put your own personal style into a look. It will be truly your own. There are so many wonderful seamstresses and tailors that can create fabulous items just for you. If you can sew yourself, you are WAY ahead of the game and the cost goes down even further. Also you are in control of the color, fabric, fit, style, etc. You are the designer, ultimately.

Fashion is so much more than just something you throw on. It tells your mood, it tells others who you are and who you want to be, it exudes confidence or insecurity. Make it fun and make it your own. Be independent. Start with a template and create from there. Get back to the basics and start from scratch. I guarantee you'll have everyone asking "Where did you get that?"

Vintage Fashion Library - Catch them on Facebook too!

Until then: “In difficult times fashion is always outrageous.” Elsa Schiaparelli

Sarah Radford of Chic Gems etc. Voted TOP Woman Entrepreneur

We are so proud to be a part of this very special occasion. Sarah Radford, designer of Chic Gems etc., was chosen as one of the TOP Women Entrepreneurs by Mike Michalowicz! What an honor - not only for her but it is a HUGE step for women in general. To view this phenomenal article click here.

A big CONGRATULATIONS goes out to Sarah and Chic Gems etc. You deserve it!

Hello Spring! (Well, Spring-LIKE Weather)

The weather is starting to break for the better and so are our minds! We are starting to get outside more, be more conscious of our appearance, and dusting off all of the amazing peep toe pumps, wedges, and strappy sandals in all of their glory! Though with this economy buying an abundance new outfits seems more of a task than usual. That's why adding strong "pieces" to our already existing wardrobes is the route most are taking this year.

Aesthetic Design Style to the rescue!!!!!!!!! Visit us and see how you can add unique, affordable, and quality pieces to your wardrobe without being an economic fashion disaster. We just added yet another spectacular designer to our fam so you are now covered from the inside out. Welcome evlove intimates - where you are the designer of the most fabulous intimate apparel. Top that off with some color at Chic Gems Etc. or Mattanda and grab a handbag (or 5!) at Brynn Capella or Bags of Blessing depending upon the occasion (or none at all because I don't need an occasion to buy a handbag - or anything for that matter!)

We invite you to join us on our journey of independence and to "step outside the box"!

Until then: "Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening." Coco Chanel

American Women of Invention

I was flipping through a Bed Bath and Beyond ad the other day and I came across something that caught my eye. No, not that adorable bed-in-a-bag but a small article that they included in the sidebar of one of their spreads. It was titled "American Women of Invention". It then lists some major inventions that women were responsible for and some we would be lost without in today's society.

• 1809 Mary Kies gets the first patent for the weaving process (try buying a non-woven rug and see how that works out for you!)


• 1812 Tabitha Babbitt invents the Circular Saw (Take that boys!)


• 1882 Maria Beaseley invents the Life Raft (the few survivors of the Titanic can thank Maria for her quick thinking)


• 1887 Anna Connelly invents the Fire Escape (seems like a handy invention in the case of some millions of people who live in city apartments)


• 1903 Mary Anderson invents the Windshield Wiper (and they say WE'RE the bad drivers - try driving in the rain without these!)


• 1951 Bette Nesmith Graham invents Correction Fluid (I personally will begin to thank her at least once a day as I correct my many mistakes)

I bring this to your attention because we, as women, have gone unnoticed for many many more things in history and in the present that I am sure we are unaware of. If you have ever heard of these women I mentioned above then you are way ahead of me and I commend you. If you have not (like me) we need to dig a little deeper and find all the phenomenal things we are capable of and have been capable of throughout history. If you study the inventions these brilliant women have come up with you'll notice that they are extremely logical as we women usually are. Each separate invention ultimeately started out as a problem that needed to be solved and the solution brought each invention to fruition. For example, I'm sure Ms. Tabitha Babbitt was so tired of spending hours and hours trying to saw a 2x4 with a hand saw and thought to herself "there has to be a better way". And she found it.

So, along comes 2009. Here we are. It's a new year and a new beginning. What are you going to do with it? Are you finally going to write that book? Are you going to start that business? Go back to school? Invent a way to be in 18 places at once (I'm in for whoever comes up with this one first!)? The world is ours and ours for the taking. Be confident and do what you love. Nothing is promised to us and I think this past year has proven that in a very real way. We need to help each other as people and as women and stay positive.

I love to help people and I love fashion. I love my family above all else. I finally found a way to combine ALL of those elements and in doing so I found myself again. I also found my love for appreciating beauty in things again as well. I get to work with the most amazing designers who also happen to be some of the most amazing women you will ever meet. We are all doing what we love but in different capacities yet we have found a common ground to come together and help each other succeed in our individual businesses and lives. Not to get too deep but it really is a beautiful thing.

Do what you love everyday. Find your passion. Get excited about life! Then go to Aesthetic Design Style and reward yourself with the most fantastic handbags and jewelry. You'll feel good knowing that you are supporting women, just like you, who are happy to greet the day doing what we love. Chic Gems Etc., Brynn Capella, Mattanda, and Bags of Blessing!

Until next time: "Anything less than a loving thought is TOXIC" - Dean Martens