Making Cute...Cuter!

When I decided to take on the task of helping my roommate revamp her style, I was a little unsure of how to go about it. Although, I'm a fashion merchandising student, and aspiring personal stylist, I assumed this was going to be a very difficult task. How could I make such a cute girl any cuter? Yes, trendy fashionable clothes would help, but I had to put a little thought into this one.

Samantha's usual wardrobe included tie dye or volleyball t-shirts and unflattering jeans that didn't do much for her cute, curvy figure. When deciding how to style her, I had to keep in mind her sporty, comfy style and just add a little extra to it. I had figured out our goal: finding jeans and shirts that flattered her body, but that were comfortable and "easy" just like her old volleyball shirts.

Our first stop: Nordstrom's BP Section. This trendy, cheap, little known section of Nordstrom was the perfect spot to find a fashion forward top at a reasonable price. We settled on a pale pink and white striped, ruffle tank top. A piece that would be easy to layer or wear on its own.

Next was Forever 21. My goal was to get Samantha into a cardigan, but that was a big jump from her usual pullover tie dye (and/or volleyball) hoodies and zip-up UnderArmor fitness gear. So, we settled with a zip-up tan and purple hoodie for an American Apparel inspired feel. Another easy piece, that was just another step towards her trendy, revamped look.

Then it was JEAN TIME! I had mentioned before our trip to Samantha, that the biggest change in her look would be in the type of jeans we picked out. The jeans we ended up buying were the complete opposite from her usual everyday jeans. The jeans Samantha wears on a daily basis are very light washed, flared leg and not very fitting anywhere but the waist. The jeans we ended up picking were Gap's 1969 Real Straight style in a dark wash. The dark wash and the slim fit of the legs made Samantha look so great! Her legs looked long and lean...but still showed off her curvy figure! Not to mention, the darker wash and quality jeans just screamed fashionable! After one look at herself in the mirror with her new jeans, Samantha was strutting and dancing all around the dressing room. While still at the Gap, after settling on an amazing pair of jeans, we found fitted v-neck t-shirts for $4! YES, $4! (The store was having a fantastic sale...and we just so happened to be there on the right day!).

We finished the day with purchasing some basics like a plain, white tank top for layering and a dark grey v-neck. A brightly multi-colored scarf caught our eyes at Old Navy...a must have to continue her love for tie-dye in a more stylish, mature way.

The styling trip went wonderful, and Samantha left with some really great pieces at a GREAT price. She felt comfortable and was finally able to show off her cute body in clothes that fit properly! Just the change in jeans alone left Samantha looking longer, leaner and more mature. Overall we only spent less than $130, and she left with 4 shirts, a nice pair of jeans, a scarf and a stylish hoodie. Can you say bargain beasts?!

This styling project was a challenge for me and I couldn't have been more happy with the outcome. Seeing Samantha with the biggest smile on her face and the giddiest attitude reminded me why I want a career in the fashion industry. Helping people feel beautiful and confident without changing who they are or their personal style is a difficult task, but if successfully accomplished can make the cutest person even cuter. I think I can speak for all of us when I say, Megan, Samantha and I all left the mall that day feeling beautiful and successful in our own skin.

Stay Addicted,

Tris

...For those who want more tips on updating your look and finding good deals, let me know! I really enjoy personal styling and would love to take on more friends as projects! :)