Stay Cool with this Hot item

Scarves are traditionally used to keep warm during the cold winter months. But this summer, long, lightweight scarves are a must-have item. From how to wear them to where to find them, Bobbie Thomas, TODAY Style editor and author of the Buzz column for In Touch Weekly, tells you all you need to know about summer scarves.

Why you’ll want one
Versatile and vibrant, an oversize scarf is virtually weightless, and will take up very little room in your purse. Although part of the allure is the chic, airy feel, a feather-light scarf can ward off the chill of air-conditioning, and even act as an extra layer of sunscreen. Beyond its functionality, this fashionable accent is available on any budget, and in every style imaginable. From organic fabrics to bold and graphic prints, adding a splash of personality to your ensemble is easier than ever before. This summer, you can leave the jewels behind, knowing that a pop of color or pretty pattern around your neck will draw attention to your face just like a necklace would for an easy, breezy summer look.

How to wear it
There are countless ways to wear a summer scarf. Standard methods include wrapping it multiple times around your neck and tucking the edges under, folding it in half behind your head and looping the open ends through the hole near your collarbone, or simply swooping it around your neck and tossing one end over your shoulder. Some of Hollywood's trendsetters are tying the ends of square scarves together and wearing them in the style of a Western cowboy. Don't be afraid to experiment: twist, braid, knot two together, or try tying a last-minute halter top.

A few of Hollywood’s favorites
Celebrities like Cameron Diaz have been sporting simple Love Quotes scarves. Available in more than 50 colors, each scarf comes with an inspirational tag, with a portion of the proceeds going to children’s charities.

Stars like Jessica Alba adore the exotic and intricate geometric prints on Tolani’s summer scarves. Styles like the Zig-Zag, Honeycomb and Myst have a true global feel, and represent a colorful tribute to traditional cultures.

Sienna Miller and Hilary Duff add a touch of casual texture to their look with Fluxus' ruffle scarves. With their feminine edge, these thin strips are the perfect accessory for all you thrill seekers out there.

Thanks to Sir Alistair Rai, you can wrap yourself up in Love, Karma, Hope and Truth. These wraps feature Hindu and Buddhist prayers hand-painted by artisans in India, and have attracted some of Hollywood's biggest names. Fans like Drew Barrymore can either toss and go, or dress up in the oversize styles.

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pam@dressraleigh.com
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Set Sail

As anticipated, the spring fashion 2011 trends showed one of our favorites, the nautical inspired theme. Nothing says spring / summer like the sailor look.

It doesn’t matter whether visiting the beach, walking along the promenade, the boardwalk or actually taking a trip afloat. The nautical look is classic and works well in every situation. 2011 will see the classic nautical look flavored with the South Seas, South Pacific, sailor hats, and the usual nautical strips.

You can start your Nautical Look with a classic swimsuit or a bikini. Then add shorts, skirt or mini dress according to the time of day.

Next, throw in something for the evening; a full-length dress for example. Add some shoes or sandals and other accessories to keep the theme going.

Everything can be mix and match giving you a huge choice of look to suit any occasion.

Ahoy There!

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pam@dressraleigh.com
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Jack of All Trades

What does every girl need and want once the southern heat rolls in? Well, a pair of Jack Rogers sandals of course! This resort shoe-wear dates all the way back to the 1960's. Originally making a statement in the warm climate of Palm Beach, this brand has grown in both popularity and come a long way from just a pair of sandals. Now the brand includes a full line of footwear, woman's apparel and accessories.

Not only are the stylish sandals timeless, but were worn by the classic Jacqueline Kennedy. The famed Jack Rogers Navajo sandal stepped into history when Jacqueline Kennedy wore it to St. Edward's Church in Palm Beach on Good Friday, 1962. Since then, the famed Navajo sandal has appeared in fashion magazines and newspapers around the world. The Jack Rogers brand is synonymous with all-American, effortless chic; at once pedigreed and affordable, worldly and unfussy. Their shoes are still handcrafted in the USA.

Celebrate spring weather and pedicured toes! We've got just the pair for you in at Dress! New styles and sizes arriving all the time! Stop by today to claim your pair!

www.dressraleigh.com
pam@dressraleigh.com
919.699.6505 - now taking Spring consignment appointments!

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Your Bling for Sping

Like an amazing pair of lace-up wedges or the most coveted new bucket bag, an injection of fresh jewelry can do wonders for waking up a sleepy wardrobe. And this season, there are a handful of themes that have us reshuffling our spring/summer must-haves.

Big Mixed Cabochon-Style Stones—The last few seasons have been like jewelry on steroids. Not that we'll ever say no to a great statement necklace. But this spring, the Big idea that caught our eye was the use of giant Cabochon-style stones, à la Proenza Schouler and Bottega Veneta. Organic and elegant.

Tassels & Fringe—Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Dior all seemed to have an Art Deco-meets-'70s moment with the re-imagining of huge, gorgeous tassel earrings and fringe necklaces. We like, and this is one we'll be wearing.

Clean & Architectural—Perhaps as a back-lash to all the mixed piled-on pearls, chains, and stones that continue to fill boutiques, Pamela Love, Giles & Brother, and other designers opted for super spare, clean, and almost architectural pieces. And for the OCD or easily distracted, the simplicity is nothing short of refreshing.

Plastics & Perspex—The trend toward really childlike, whimsical jewels with a '60s feel always has a place in our wardrobes. So, for spring, we were doubly excited when designers like Karen Walker and Marni turned out fun plastic-fantastic necklaces and wide perspex-like colored cuff bracelets.

Rose-Gold—In fashion, it's always a guessing game each season as to who in the metals will prevail: silver or gold? Well, for spring, the more exotic rose-gold is stealing center-stage, with a striking necklace by Eddie Borgo and a surprisingly sophisticated Michael Kors watch taking top honors on our spring/summer wish-list.

...yes, this spring, it's bling for all!

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pam@dressraleigh.com
919.699.6505

What's Wearable for Spring

If any of you are like myself, you indulge in what's going to be the hottest look for the next season. Always watching what your favorite celebrity is wearing or thumbing through the pages of your latest issue of Vogue...on the edge of your seat for what's the trend for SPRING! After this frigid Winter, I'm already counting down the days until I can pull out my pastels and throw my heavy coats and cashmere scarf to the back of my closet! Though watching the runways closely can make sure your fashion agenda is up to par with Rachel Zoe's...not everything on those 100 pound, 5'10" models is practical for an every day ensemble. Here is a list to get your started for Spring. And I promise you can ACTUALLY pull these looks off!

1. A Cargo, military inspired jacket or vest. Pair your tough looking top with a flirty bottom for an all-around fashionable look.

2. High- Waisted flare jeans. Say hello to your new day to night bestie! Wear them with wedge heels and a tucked in top to look tall and lean. (Anyone 5'3" out there? This can be a leg lengthening look for you! )

3. The Platform Wedge. The combination of the two equals a whole lot of awesomeness! Your feet will thank you for the break from the painfully high stilettos!

4. The Trench Dress. I am a personal fan of this look because it's a great Monday - Friday dress. The mix between a trench coat and a sheath dress makes for a practical and comfortable look!

5. Big Bangles. There's no easier (or more affordable) way to update your look in a hurry. Just slip on an armful or color plastic or wooden bangles and show off your arm candy!

Hang in there ladies, Spring is just around the corner and with these tips, your look is sure to be chic as ever!

www.dressraleigh.com
pam@dressraleigh.com
919.699.6505
peaceandlove
Make your appointment today to consign your Spring items!

Dressing for you Skin Tone

An important part of choosing the right colors for your wardrobe is to pick the ones that flatter your skin tone. Here are some tips when choosing colors and tones for you!

Skin tones can sometimes be divided into seasons.
"Winter" complexions have blue or pink undertones. Skin can be pale white, yellowish-olive, or dark. Winter people are generally brunettes, with deeply colored eyes. Many Asians and African Americans fall into this category.

"Winter": Winters should wear colors that are sharp, stark and clear. White, black, navy blue, red and shocking pink all go well with winter complexions. For lighter colors, wear icy tones rather than pastels. Avoid subdued tones like beige, orange and gold

"Summer" complexions, like winter complexions, have blue or pink undertones. Skin is pale and pink. Summers are often natural blondes or brunettes with pale eyes.

"Summer": Summers should choose pastels and soft neutrals with rose and blue undertones. Lavender, plum, rose-brown and soft blue suit summers well while black and orange do not.

"Autumn": Autumn complexions have golden undertones. Many redheads and brunettes with golden brown eyes fall into this category.

"Autumn": Autumns should select colors with golden undertones, like camel, beige, orange, gold and dark brown. Avoid colors with blue tones, like navy.

"Spring": Spring complexions have golden undertones and are usually creamy white or peach. Spring people generally have straw-colored or strawberry red hair, freckles, rosy cheeks, and blue or green eyes.

"Spring": Springs can wear warm colors like camel, peach, golden yellow and golden brown. Avoid dark, dull colors.

Now that you know your best colors get to shopping!

Come in a see our new Spring items, arriving daily! Consignors call today to make your appointment for Spring merchandise.

www.dressraleigh.com
pam@dressraleigh.com
919.699.6505

peaceandlove

The Wrap Dress...Am American Classic

The most timeless dress style in a woman's wardrobe has to be the wrap. Waist-whittling, bust-enhancing and hip-reducing, women the world over are still wearing it.

Ever since Diane von Furstenberg (DvF) introduced the wrap dress as a high fashion item in 1972, it was quickly adopted by such celebrities as Princess Diana and Jerry Hall.

The demure wrap then fell out of favor during the '80s power-dressing trend. It was to re-emerge in 1997 with DvF's more modern signature dresses, whose style appealed to a new, younger generation, including the likes of Kate Middleton (Princess in waiting?), Paris Hilton, Mischa Barton and Jemima Khan.

Much of the longevity of the wrap dress is due to its flexibility and versatility.

The wrap dress is perfect for almost every figure. It can be a perfect solution for the curvy woman. It has the ability to lift the bust and creates a more hour glass figure. It can also be particularly kind to the big-busted woman.

Wrap dresses can also be great maternity-ware. It can easily hide a baby bump while you are comfortable, yet stylish. Not to mention, it is unapplogetically sexy.

Given its flexibility, the wrap dress is one of the most versatile outfits for work and play! In the office it can be worn with sophisticated pumps and a classy bag ,or teemed with leggings for a fun-everyday look. The wrap is great for traveling. This no-nonsense dress requires minimal care and ironing.

Invest in your wrap today and be set for a lifetime!

www.dressraleigh.com
pam@dressraleigh.com
919.699.6505