The Friday Five: Inspiration Found Here

This week I'm keeping it simple, and throwing five inspirational quotes and pictures at you. Catch them and run.

1. "Everything you've ever wanted is on the other side of fear." -George Addair

 

2. Wanderlust

 

3. "It's okay to be scared. Being scared means you're about to do something really, really brave." 

 

4. Projects To Get Your Blood Pumping

 

5. "Make it simple, but significant."

Be inspired, and go do! :-)

Thanks For Reading,

-Hollis 

P.S. All the pictures and quotes featured were found on Pinterest. If you want even MORE inspiration, I highly suggest Pinterest!!! It's my favorite. Of. All. Time! 

The Friday Five: Winter Warmth Edition

I don't know about you, but right now, I feel like I'm stuck in the Arctic. It's SO cold! In these conditions, it can be difficult to fabulously dress, while staying in a wintery mess. Here, you'll find the top trends to stay warm and glamourous. 

Street style featuring a trendy pink scarf (Pinterest).

1. Scarfs Make the Difference

The best way to feel warm? Wrap a scarf around your neck! And I don't just mean the gimpy fabricated scarfs, I'm talking hardcore knits. They're adorably fashionable, and can keep any neck warm. My closet houses a maroon knit, and gray knit scarf. I wear them everywhere, from school to around the house to sewing lessons. They're effortless, and can be the bow, cherry, or whatever finishing touch you prefer, to your outfit of the day.

2. Go Oversized

When staying warm, you need to layer up. Prime way? To simply go oversized. Layer up with some long sleeves and throw an oversized crew neck overtop. It's extremely cozy, and can be killer, while sporting waves in your hair. For bottoms, you could wear cute jeans, or a modest pair of leggings. (I usually don't wear leggings, we need to keep it classy ladies! If you do, I'd suggest a crew that covers.) 

3. SOS! Feet in need of warmth!

Shoes are most definitely one of the challenges of winter... Most shoes don't cover enough of the foot, and it gets to the point where UGGS just aren't an option, right? Ditch the thought of warmer shoes, try warmer socks! I ski and snowboard all the time, so I have to keep my feet toasty in a pair of wool socks. (They're basically the crème de la crème of warm socks. It's like taking fuzzy socks to a whole new level!) Then I thought, "why not wear them all the time?" Pair them with your mid-calf boots, or hightop Converse. You can get them at almost any outerwear store, and they're worth the price, I promise. Next time your feet need a break from the frigid climate, slip them into a pair of wools. 

4. Pin It Up 

Low bun style (Pinterest). 

Here's the sitch... You're wearing all the layers you can get, and your hair doesn't know what to do with itself! You can't wear it down with a scarf, but you want your ears to stay warm! Plus, who wants to get up early and apply the heat? Try a low bun. This style takes seconds, and can easily complete your look. Simply twist and tie your hair into a bun. To keep those ears snug and sheltered, let some layers hang out of the bun. Finally, pin up the loose ends and presto! No sweat style, and zero "hair-up" headaches. 

5. Favorite Jacket

My favorite jacket is my pink puffer jacket Patagonia. It's light, yet warm. During the cold times, you need a go-to jacket, that can go with everything. I'd suggest a Patagonia or North Face. They're warm and stylish, perfect for this time of year. 

I hope these tips help you stay comfortable and cozy for the rest of the season.

Xoxo, Hollis. 

The Friday Five

1. Oscar nominees

The Oscars are approaching! (February 22nd, to be exact) Pull out your popcorn, because you must watch the nominees before the big night! There is a full list of the nominees on http://oscar.go.com/nominees. I saw Selma the other day, and it took my breath away. What an amazing film. I really love movies like Selma, because they can send us back in time for a few hours, and bring history to life. It's one thing to read about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in a textbook, and it's another to watch him in action. Anyways, grab some friends and food and go watch some nominees! 

2. Cut your hair!!! (Shorter, at least)

If you've been contemplating chopping a few inches of hair off your hair, consider this your sign to do it! If you haven't been, then still, try it. Recently, I got my hair cut slightly below my collarbone- and I love it. (I got some layers throughout, as well.) The other day, one of my good friends cut her hair, too! It made her look sophisticated in the best of ways. This is the perfect time of year as well, late winter into spring, just in time to grow it out for summer. You can't go wrong!

P.S. Below I've attached some inspiration pics! If you're going to jump on the medium-length hair bandwagon, show these to your stylist and go for it!

The first and last pictures came from Pinterest, (if you search "medium length hair" so many styles will come up!) and the middle two pictures are of my friend, McKenna, and her new hairdo. (She got 10 inches off!)

 

3. Dark Chocolate chunk kind bars

Dark. Chocolate. Chunk... Sounds good already, right? Just wait until you taste them! (unless you have a peanut or soy allergy) These are possibly the best granola bars, or squares, I've ever had. Go to http://www.kindsnacks.com/store/types/healthy-grains-bars to find out more about the delicious snacks, which are also SUPER healthy. I love to grab one on my way to school, or save it for after. Whatever the case, they will fill you and keep your taste buds happy. :-)

4. Misterwives album

My words cannot do this album justice.. You just have to listen to it. It'll be worth it, I promise. 

You can get it on iTunes or Beats Music. Start listening!

5. Pure cosmetics lip balm

I have sensitive lips, that react to just about anything, except for pure lanolin. It's the best thing I've ever used. Ever. I get it from Pure Cosmetics. They have basic chap stick, and so many lip stains, sticks, and balms. They come in flattering colors, as well. Their website is http://www.lanolip.com.. Check it out! Even if you don't have overly sensitive lips, I highly suggest this brand. Frame your smile with soft, colorful lips. :)

Trend Alert: Winter Edition

Brrr!! Just in time for the holidays, the air gets brisk, the sun disappears for slightly longer than normal, and there is a new blog post on byhollis.com! :) Here, you'll find the best of the best styles. From simple accents to full-blown vogue concoctions, this is the place to pursue ten of the most raging trends. 

1. Denim Flannels

Last post, it was plaid flannels. Now, denim! What could be better? A denim flannel is usually a lighter wash, and is a thinner material than regular denim. There are so many ways to wear them too! My favorite is to wrap it around the waist, while sporting dark wash jeans, combat boots, and a white sweater. It adds something extra to ordinary attire. You could also wear it normally, button it up, then add an infinity scarf! (One of my friends was wearing it this way, and boy was it stylish!) Or, wear it over top a cute tank top. When it comes to denim flannels, the possibilities are endless!

2. Layers-Upon-Layers

Layer after layer after layer after la... You get the point! Bundle up this winter. I love wearing a shirt, cardigan overtop, a scarf, a cute parka, and jeans of course. It's cold, but this look will always have your back. 

P.S. - Pick yourself up a pair of knee high socks! Wear your socks with boots, and scrunch them down, so only about three inches are showing out of the boot. :) 

3. Cargo Parkas

Definitely one of the top trends this winter.. the cargo parka! Wear it over anything, and add a cute scarf for extra pizzazz. I have a blue one, but a very common color you'll see is green! Whatever color it is, cargo parkas will always complement. 

4. Leather Jackets (Especially Black!!!)

Featured here is the one and only Avery Troutman. Keep a lookout for her on the blog... She's definitely one of the most stylish gals I've ever met. (And the funniest!) And, she can pull off red lipstick, effortlessly!!! Can we all take a moment to take a look at her black leather jacket? 

This on and off trend, will be peaking after the holidays. You can wear a leather jacket in so many ways. Three fabulous colors to pair this trend with are white, light pink, and navy blue. (Yes, black and blue. I know some say that is a fashion faux pas, but just wait. Soon, you'll see these colors uniting everywhere.) You could also wear a sparkling skirt underneath, then add the jacket... Perfect for a New Years Party if you ask me! Another way to rock the leather jacket is to wear it overtop a striped shirt. Or, you could kick butt by wearing this with a pink skater skirt! Endless ways to wear, endless ways to blow minds. 

5. Marbled Sweaters

If you know what a marbled sweater is, you rock. If you don't, you still rock, but now you'll learn. A marbled sweater is a sweater with different colored thread, yarn, etc. Putting these different colors together create a patterned and textural look. The most common color I see is black, white, and gray... I own one in fact! Needless to say, there are many other colors as well! These sweaters are classic with a long necklace to finish off the look. They're perfect for a day in the town, at school, or by the fire. Wherever you are, a marbled sweater would fit to flatter.

6. Mid-Calf Boots

Mid-calf boots are most definitely a trend in full swing this winter. The most popular colors are black and brown, but I've seen green and burgundy as well. (Which are daringly fetching!) These boots are ideal for pulling a layered getup together, and they provide warmth in this frigid weather! Keep your feet cozy, and your style in touch with this boot. 

7. Braids, braids, braids... (Then add some wave!)

How to kill it this winter? Start by not killing your hair, with heat and more heat, keep it natural and add a braid! There are so many possibilities, like a fishtail, dutch braid, french braid, and more! (If you want to learn, you can search "how to do a _____ braid" and tutorial after tutorial will pop up!) It's healthy, and adorable! Then, take out the braid a boom! Organic waves, without the heat. Keep your hair fresh, and split end free. Braid, then add some wave!

From Left to Right: Grace Ghizza, my long time bud, at homecoming! I love her waterfall braid. McKenna Brown is next, at our soccer game! Braids were the before-game, go-to style. Lastly, Molly Walter. She braided her hair and took it out for these elegant waves. I HAD to take a picture!!

8. Dark Nail Color

For winter, dark nail color is unavoidable. My favorite color to wear this season is darker red, burgundy color. But there are many other colors including dark purples, or even black. (I don't like to wear black on MY nails, primarily because it doesn't fit my skin tone, but it flatters others!) Next time you hit up the nail salon, go dark. After all, it's winter. 

9. Gold Jewelry

For a long time, silver jewelry has been number one. Now, gold is making a comeback! I love gold bracelets, especially for the chilly days of winter! I usually wear diamond studs, but I have gold crosses that I wear a lot too! They match the three gold bracelets I wear, then I finish off the accessorizing with a ring my dad got me, that features gold accents. Gold can spice up any outfit, I dare you to try it!

10. The "Little Black Bag"

The "Little Black Bag." Let's say you're going on a big shopping day and you need to carry your wallet, chapstick, phone, etc. Carry it in an over-the-shoulder black bag! They match everything, and provide storage for your winter must haves. 

Back-To-School Trends

         I hate to say it, but school is almost here. With school comes hard work, homework, and (my favorite) new fashion trends. Every school year brings along new styles to rock for nine months, and By Hollis can help you find them. 

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1. Flannels 

       In my opinion, flannels have always been in style. They're the perfect way to finish off a cute tank top, or add some color to a bland ensemble. But don't take the buttoned up cliché route, mix it up a bit! Tie your flannel around your waist for a stylish alternative. Or, simply unbutton your flannel and wear your favorite tank top underneath! You could also tie your flannel in a knot at the bottom, while still letting your tank top peak out of the top. There are so many combinations and ideas, and you HAVE to try them. Don't just wear a flannel, own it! :)

2. Gladiator Sandals 

       Looking for the perfect sandal to complete your new dress? Or to create a statement for your new shorts and top? You've been looking for a nice pair of gladiator sandals. They're almost like winter boots.. For fall! You can find gladiator sandals all over and they'll be huge in the spring! So be trendy and get a pair now :)

3. Confidence 

       Even though this isn't a physical trend, it's definitely in. Having confidence is key to looking and feeling your best. First step... Don't slouch. You want to look approachable, and slouching will only drive away people wanting to start a conversation. Next, look people in the eye. When you're having a discussion, looking at the ground doesn't make you look confident. The final step to confidence is to smile. And what goes better with a smile than a smile shirt? Now, I know you can't suddenly gain a lot of confidence in a second. But that doesn't mean you can't act like you have boat loads of confidence. If you pretend you have a ton of confidence, you will develop it. 

4. Natural Toned Makeup 

       Ditch the bright colors and crazy shades, go for the natural look! Go with black mascara (my favorite mascara is Cover Girl Clump Crusher!! ) and add some natural gold or light brown eye shadow. Add some sparkle for a great accent! I also suggest adding some light eye shadow (white or shimmer) to the inside corners of your eye lids, it's proven to make you look more active and awake! I personally don't like foundation or powder, but if you wear it, don't overload! Try not wearing any at all even, being natural is great! Go with a sheer or extremely light pink gloss for your lips. My favorite is gloss from Pure Illumination. They make their products out of pure lanolin, which can repair damaged lips! It works great, and looks great! It's perfect for completing a natural look.

5. Accessorized Backpacks

      Lets say you bought this cute, solid colored backpack, and you want to add something special to it. Why not add some iron-ons and key chains? I've been seeing more and more of this style, and I'm learning to love it. Stores are starting to sell creative iron-on badges that have cool designs on them, but what can you do with them? Try ironing them onto your backpack. They add style and personality to your bag, but you're not done there. Now, get some stylish key chains to finish it off. The final product will be a chic backpack with some personality. 

 

6. Flowy Shorts, Pants, and More

      Flowy shorts were so in for summer! With the cute floral prints, flowy shorts were the ultimate summer trend. Carrying that look into fall, you can convert those flowy shorts into flowy pants! I have a pair of flowy pants, and I love them. They have a design on them, so I can finish off the look with a solid color shirt or sweater. If you're feeling super trendy, get a jump suit! Jump suits are getting more and more attention, and they have that flowy look you want. 

7. Plaid Skirts

       I love the preppy look of a plaid skirt. My favorite is red plaid, finished off with a By Hollis graphic tee and jean vest hoodie! Plaid skirts can go with any white graphic shirt, in my opinion. And this fall, plaid skirts will be the latest craze. Skater skirt style in plaid is super cute, definitely one of my favorites! So keep an eye out for plaid... :)

8. Jewelry  

       When you feel your outfit is flavorless, always remember to accessorize! Right now, I'm really into the look of multiple rings on your hands. Especially mid finger rings! And bracelets are always in, if you ask me! Take a By Hollis tribal bracelet and pair it with some cute rings and a necklace. And watch out for leather jewelry this fall.. It may be taking its turn in the spotlight! 

9. Headbands 

        Headbands have always been somewhat in, right? Well, wearing it in your hair at least. Switch it up and wear it across your forehead. This trend has always been in and out, but this fall you'll be seeing more and more of it. You could rock a beaded headband, or a fabric headband. What ever the case, headbands worn across the forehead are the perfect way to spice up a cute dress, romper, etc. 

 

 

10. Jean Vest Hoodies 

        Jean vest hoodies. You may have no clue what they look like, because they're not well known... Yet. Imagine a jean vest, add hoodie fabric sleeves and a hood. Voila, jean vest hoodie. They're great to throw over a By Hollis tank or shirt, and they're functional. They are warm for fall and winter, and they have a hood! I suggest getting one, because they'll be the next big trend this fall. 

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       Back-to-School is a time to make a change, to be who you want to be. Use By Hollis back-to-school trends to do so. Anyways, would you rather be a follower or a leader? Lead the school by starting these trends, and before you know it, you won't be alone. 

Thanks for reading!

-Hollis :)