Winter to Spring

Going from Winter to Spring is always exciting. You get to change out what you've been wearing for the past three and get into fabulous accessories full of colors, a new bright handbag, fun lightweight scarves and of course shaking off those big chunky sweaters for perfect little vests {and of course all that black}.
That being said, here in Indiana, it may be snowing in March and 34 degrees in April. The last thing you want to do is look like your getting off of a plane from Florida in Indiana when your headed out. You can still look like your ready for spring while keep warm.

Here are some great tips and tricks to keep you warm while looking nice and springy.

1. Color
Know what the "new" colors of spring are to easily stay on trend and up to date. Check out Pantone {https://www.pantone.com/color-of-the-year-2017}to see the Color of the Year and each This Spring Season {https://www.pantone.com/fashion-color-report-spring-2017?from=topNav}. This years Color of the Year is Greenery. Also try some of this Spring Seasons colors Primrose Yellow, Pale Dogwood, Hazelnut, Island Paradise, Pink Yarrow, Niagara, Kale, Lapis Blue and Flame.

2. Jewelry
Accessories are the key to easily adding a pop of color to your wardrobe.  Try a fun pink {try a Pale Dogwood or Pink Yarrow}, Greenery, or Blue {Island Paradise, Niagara or Lapis Blue} long necklace with a fun trendy tassel OR a great statement piece or a great statement earring with matching bracelet {a great option when paired with a scarf}.

3. Scarves
It's finally time to toss those thick, cozy blanket scarves and grab your light weight breathable scarves. Try one made with lace or one with tassels! It's time to have fun with your wardrobe! This is a great {and so easy} way to add color to any outfit. If its a little cooler out try a larger thin brightly colored scarf so it will keep you warm while you look springy.

3. Handbags
Do away with that dark gloomy handbag and get a great new fresh handbag. This is a great way to start your "spring cleaning". We end up with soooo much junk in our handbags they don't need. Empty yours out and whatever you do don't put it all in your new bag. Lighten your load. Try something fun!

4. Vests & Dusters
A duster is a light, loose-fitting long coat, jacket or sweater - it should hit mid calf to top of your ankle {NO, this is not going to make you look shorter than you are, pairing this with a monotone outfit under it and a simple long necklace will actually make you look taller!}. Adding a pop of color with a light vest or duster on a cooler Indiana spring day is a great way to look and feel fabulous.

5. Booties/Shooties/Ankle Boots
These are absolutely the most trendy way to take your wardrobe from winter to spring. They are fabulous paired with dresses or cuffed skinnies. Go for a lighter color, try and steer clear of black to keep a more springy feel {and before you say you only wear black, YES, you can wear light brown/taupe/stone booties with a black top or dress/tunic}.

Cred                                               Cred.

Fabulous Cut Out Booties available at Lyn-Maree's starting 2/27/17 to order call 260.908.1391
{{Left Image, Black, $43.99 6-10 - Right Image, Taupe, $46.99 5.5-10}}

6. Leggings 
Leggings for me are a must. I am always freezing cold and crazy pale {I would hate to blind someone by accident before my legs see the sun}. To help stay warm and covered but look nice and springy ditch the black leggings! That's right ladies, ditch the black leggings. I know they are an amazing staple and yes I am guilty of it too, but try a new color. You don't have to get crazy but try a navy or charcoal to start out then inch yourself towards a cloud grey, taupe, ivory or white. *Please note a LONG Tunic/Dress/Slip Dress is a MUST with lighter colored leggings  even though they are not see though {yes, even if your in amazing shape or 15, your booty and camel toe MUST MUST be covered}.

Looking for amazing leggings? ---->    http://Lyn-Marees.shoptiques.com

All images are from inside the boutique 2/20/17 - Hurry in if you see something fabulous you must have.



Have a Fabulous Day,

Emma, Owner & Stylist
Lyn-Maree's
209 N Main St
Auburn, IN 46706
Monday-Friday 10-6 & Saturday 10-3
Call for Shipping or Click Below
http://Lyn-Marees.shoptiques.com

Make getting ready easier

Ever wonder why Lyn-Maree's only carries neutral clothing? 
Or why I only carry what I call "Accessory Clothing"?

Getting ready in the morning should be quick, easy and virtually effortless.
I'm not a morning person so I need a quick, easy morning routine that ends up in me still looking "stylish" for my day at the boutique. For me a quick morning routine starts with the closet.

Here are 8 simple steps to simplify your closet....and did I mention you can still do all of this and be trendy, up to date and stylish without spending a fortune.... 

Step No. 1: Confront your closet (and dresser, don't forget about that). Can you even see what's in there? Start the clean out by cleaning your closet...yes one piece at a time...

While your clearing out your closet put your clothing into 3 piles

• Keep it - This pile is for clothing you love
• Have worn in the last 12 months
• Fit you right now
• Are not stained or over washed
• And YES, the clothing must fit ALL of those categories. If you are wishy/washy about a garment, Donate it!
• Donate it - This pile is where MOST of your closet will be ending up. 
• Toss it - This pile is if for all the clothing that is stained, discolored, over washed and worn, tearing, etc.

*Note: If you hesitate over an item, for even a second, you don't love it, donate it*

Place the clothes you love on your bed. Arrange the articles by type: jeans, pants, shirts, etc.

Step No. 2: Examine the items on the bed to see if a theme emerges. Is everything blue? Perhaps you chose clothes sewn only from comfortable fabrics. Did you choose only your best-fitting pair of jeans? Did you leave all the skirts in the closet?

By examining the clothes you love in a vacuum—that is, without the rest of your wardrobe surrounding them and clamoring for attention—you will see a pattern. Maybe you like striped shirts best. Or maybe you really only feel comfortable in black. Next time you are on the verge of a purchase, think back to this moment: how would the new piece you are considering fit in with your favorites?

Step No. 3: Make outfits. How many different ways can you mix key pieces to create different looks? Lay out as many ensembles as possible. (Helpful Hint: snap photos with your phone of each outfit; when you wake up tomorrow morning and can't decide what to wear, you can remind yourself of the possibilities.)

Step No. 4: Edit. Are there favorite pieces that didn't make the cut when you were putting together outfits? Take them off the bed...add those to the Donate pile. 

Step No. 5: Pick and choose. Ask yourself: Is there essential piece missing? If you go back to your closet to get a particular jacket or shirt or pair of pants you now regret placing in the donate pile, will that article of clothing enable you to create several more outfits? If so, grab it. *this is the ONLY time you can get back into the pile...box that up and seal it so you cant pull anything else out*

Step No. 6: Repair, replace buttons, and iron every piece of clothing that needs attention. If an item doesn't fit properly, take it to the tailor; shorten the sleeves, nip in the waist, lift a hemline to the most flattering length. If you don't want to make that investment, get rid of the piece. Trust me, it doesn't look good on you.

Step No. 7: Go through your Keep pile, find 10 of your key favorite pieces that your able to create LOTS of outfits from (outfit ideas from step no. 3) Put those back in your closet, on hangers or shelves where they are most visible and accessible. Most of these pieces are likely to be neutrals {black, brown/cocoa/tan, grey, white/ivory, navy}

• This would be where my Slip Dresses, Slip Skirts, fav Cardigan, Blazer, Overlays, "Little" Black Dress, Nikibiki Leggings and Tops, fav pair of Jeans are located 
• Keeping my basic "everyday" items in neutrals helps provide an array of outfit choices from the same pieces {getting more bang for my buck} then I add pops of fun colors in using my jewelry and scarves. 

Step No. 8: Put the rest of your Keep clothing pile back in your closet 

• Arrange by Color and Long Dresses to T Shirts  - DO NOT hang any outfits/suits/matching tops & bottoms together - 
• If you have a work uniform do keep those all together 
• See September 2014 "Organizing your Closet" for further instructions on how to organize your closet to get the most out of your clothing
•  http://www.lyn-marees.com/blog

Slip Dresses pictured on the Left 

Slip Skirts pictured on the Right 

Hat Etiquette 101

As hats are coming more trendy {thank goodness because they are saving us from the sun and wrinkles} I've started wearing them more often I found myself wondering...

"What is the etiquette on when I can can leave my hat on and when I need to take it off?"

Fashion hats (not baseball-style caps) can be left on

• In someone's home
• At luncheons, weddings, garden parties
• At religious services
• At a movie or any indoor performance
• When the national anthem is played
• When the flag of the United States passes by, as in a parade

Take your fashion hat off

• Anytime it blocks someone's view, such as at a wedding or in a theater
• Indoors at work

Remove baseball-style (unisex) caps {who knew there was a difference?}

• In someone's home
• At mealtimes, at the table
• While being introduced
• In a house of worship, unless a hat or head covering is required
• Indoors at work, unless required for the job
• In public buildings such as a school, library, courthouse, or town hall
• In restaurants and coffee shops
• At a movie or any indoor performance
• When the national anthem is played
• When the flag of the United States passes by, as in a parade

How to: Leg Warmers, Boot Cuffs and Boot Socks

Leg Warmers, Boot Cuffs and Boot Socks are trending right now, but the real question is
"How do you wear these?" 

I've been hearing this question a lot lately because I have several styles in the boutique. As always the easiest way to show people is with some great example. 

**Warning- Do NOT wear these with your gym shoes. These are NOT the same things you wore in the 80's. They are technically the same, I suppose, but worn in a more figure flattering way.**


Why we need a pair this seasons:

1. They are adorable (obviously) 
2. They make any jeans & T outfit look so amazing without any extra effort
3. They keep your warm
4. Perfect with jeans, leggings or bare legs
5. They can dress up any ol' outfit

Hope this helps keep you trendy and fabulous! 

If you have any questions on style tips and tricks comment below or stop by!

Lyn-Maree's  

209 N Main St 

Auburn, IN 46706 

Monday-Friday 10-6 & Saturday 10-3

http://www.lyn-marees.com

Layering Necklaces

As winter is quickly approaching we find ourselves layering everything...trying to keep warm while still looking fabulous. Layering jewelry is a great way to freshen up your wardrobe and create new looks from jewelry you already own! 

Check out these great secrets to layering your necklaces

• Secret 1: Go for a graduated effect—delicate shorter necklaces with slightly chunkier, longer necklaces.

  Formula: delicate diamond + small gold charm + medium gold charm

• Secret 2: Larger-than-life necklaces pair well with dainty chains.

  Formula: oversized statement necklace + long chain

• Secret 3: For a collar effect, layer chunky necklaces that rest right on top of each other.

  Formula: chunky chain necklace + colorful lucite necklace + statement gold necklace

• Secret 4: Personalize your collection with a letter or zodiac pendant.

  Formula: two small charm necklaces + pearl bar necklace + medium pendant necklace

• Secret 5: Gold may be in vogue, but silver can feel more unique.

  Formula: dainty charm necklace + mid-length pendant + long statement pendant
• Secret 6: Coin necklaces add an instant bohemian feel.
  Formula: beaded necklace + coin charm necklace + colored gemstone necklace

• Secret 7: A lariat necklace is the best way to add length

  Formula: charm necklace + bar necklace + lariat necklace
• 

  Secret 8: Get a minimalist look by layering simple chains—no pendants needed!

  Formula: delicate choker + thin chains of varying lengths

Organizing Your Closet

It's the best time of the year to start fresh and new in your closet, it's 2017 and time to get the most out of your wardrobe.

During the DeKalb County Free Fall Fair I was open by appointment only, which meant I had a whole week off work! Now as a small business owner that never happens, the only time you have off work is when you have other obligations. So during the fair I decided I was not going to make any plans and work on organizing my home (which was in scary disorder due to working all the time).

One of my rooms that is consistently needing picked up is my closet. Somehow clothing never ends up back on its hanger or in a drawer or single socks everywhere or winter hats & gloves are just everywhere {not sure how this happens}

When organizing my closet I have a few key things I like to do that ensures I get the most out of all of my clothing and accessories.

1. Separate 

• Separate all of your suits or matching tops and bottoms
• DO NOT hang any matching tops and bottoms or suits together 

2. Areas - Your closet should be divided into 4 general areas 

• Dresses
• Pants
• Tops 
• Skirts

3. Color

• Organizing your hanging clothing in ROY-G-BIV (rainbow) order with your brown, blacks and whites to follow. 
• Within your colors put your clothing from jackets/sweaters to long sleeve to sleeveless shirts
• Black blazer, black cardigan, long sleeve black blouses and Ts, short sleeve black T and black camisoles.

4.Accessories - Hats, Belts, Scarves, Jewelry, Handbags

• Accessories should be hung away from your clothing. 
• Its easiest to display your accessories and not have them in drawers...you need to be able to see what you have.
• Get creative with your accessory displays check out my Pinterest
• http://www.pinterest.com/lynmarees/organizing-diy/
• The better you can see what you have, the better you will be at utilizing your accessories to create new fun outfits 

5. Label 

• When putting anything into baskets, boxes, drawers that may not get used a tone...LABEL 
• When you know what you have and where it belongs, you will save yourself heart ache and money

6. Donate & Trash  (No garage sale pile...you'll never have one & end up donating the clothing anyways)

• Has it been more than a year since you wore it?
• Are you waiting to loose weight to wear it?
• Has it seen its day?
• Has is been over washed and over worn?
• Is it balling/pilling or have a stain?
• Does it have a hole your planning on fixing? Or missing button?
• If you said YES to ANY of those questions it's time to let it go...trust me you will be happy in the long run you did. 

Below you can see my before(left) and after(right) photos of my closet...it was a disaster and not quite perfect yet but it will be someday

Good luck and have fun! 

I know starting my day off in an organized and clean closet helps me start my day off much happier! Hope it does you as well.

Fall is in the air...let's layer up!

Finally my favorte season has arrived...lots of layering, boots, crisp air, hot tea and a cozyin' up by the fire. I absolutely love love love fall and winter. 

Many women are hesitant to layer for fear of looking larger or bulkier than they are. This could not be further from he truth. When you're layered correctly it is very figure flattering. You just have to figure out what works best for your size and shape...I promise this works for EVERYONE no matter your size, shape or age.  

Here are a few tips, tricks and money saving ideas to spice up your fall wardrobe. 

5 Steps to a Perfectly Layered Outfit

1. Start with a basic, lightweight top. I suggest a solid, something neutral, or striped.
2. Add another layer such as a soft cardigan or sweater. If you’re into color, this can be a great opportunity to mix in a bold pullover to give your outfit more intrigue and depth.
3. Then add a jacket or coat. Again, I suggest a basic color: camel, black, navy, or even olive green.
4. Next, add a scarf. It’s like the frosting on a cupcake. A must!
5. Sprinkle on your accessories (bracelets, earrings, rings, watches).

Quick Layering Tips

• Keep the under-layers more fitted to keep your shape looking slim. (fitted long sleeve T or fitted button up)
• If you’re concerned about your waistline, try to top off your look with something belted.
• When belting try BOTH under your last layer and on top of your last layer to see which way will work best for your figure. 
• Always belt at the SMALLEST part of you - hips, belly, waist, ribs... and YES you all have this
• Length and proportion is key when layering. Try to make each layer piece visible, this helps.
• Think tabs on a flier folder, they overlap but they are all visible from back (layer one) to the front (last 3,4,5).
•  Play with texture. It’s best to incorporate a mix of materials when styling a layered look. If you use all of the same fabrics, you’re look will come off as heavy and dowdy (which can add the appearance of unwanted weight as well).
• try playing with tweeds (as last layer since they are a bit heavier), leathers, knits, furs

Money Saving Tips

•  Don't store your "summer" wardrobe elsewhere. Keep all of your clothing out all year round. If you need to make more room for bulky sweaters and coats try to only put away items such as shorts, swim suits. Your "summer" clothing can easily be layered into your warmer clothing to create new outfits. Try your favorite summer dress layered with leggings and topped with a sweater, belt and scarf! You'll start seeing your clothing in a whole new light! 
• Invest in clothing that is plain, simple and fits well. Plain clothing is easier to change up with layering or accessories. You can make several new outfits just by changing up your accessories and no one will know but you! 

Have a fabulous day

& please don't forget to comment below if you have a topic you need some advice, tips or tricks on. 

-Emma

Owner and Stylist of Lyn-Maree's

209 N Main St., Auburn, IN 

(260) 908-1391

http://www.lyn-marees.com

https://www.facebook.com/lyn.marees

http://www.pinterest.com/lynmarees/

http://instagram.com/lynmarees

Weddings today

Oh weddings today *big sigh*...
Are they formal, informal, super informal or somewhere in between? Weddings use to be formal, an event you dressed up for, something special and never would imagine wearing jeans to (let alone an old, cut-off T-shirt and yes I have seen this at weddings more than once).

At today's weddings anything goes. But how do you know the attire when it's not a close friend or relative and you can't just call them up and ask what you should be wearing.
We've all done it, you thought you knew what you were going to wear, it does not work... then there is that moment of panic when your standing in front of your closet thinking "I have NOTHING to wear" and you need to leave in 10 minutes (no one wants to be that person who shows up late to a wedding...awkward)

When planning what your wearing to a wedding always consider the following things first:
1. Weather/Season
2. How formal was the invitation (did it come with 25 irrelevant envelopes*not sure why anyone still does that* or simple flat card stock invite)
3. Did the invitation state the formality of dress (typically only stated if its "black tie")
4. What is the venue? Barn, backyard, clubhouse, resort, beach....

Once weather and the potential formality of the wedding is figured out your well on your way to finding the perfect outfit.

Any plain colored dress that hits close to your knee (just above or below) is a great place to start. The simplicity of the dress will keep it easy for you to change up to make more or less dressy.
Once you have your dress pick out the shoes, then accessories. The best part about a plain dress is always the shoes and accessories, they can totally transform any old dress into something fabulous.

A few simple tips to always keep in mind when attending a wedding:
-NO flip flops (I don't care how informal the event is), if you need to take or wear flats try a ballet flat or a flat dressy sandal
-Being over dressed is way better than being under dressed
-Grab a scarf/shawl churches, reception halls, etc are either hot or cold never in between
-Don't wear anything too short...remember there will be cameras, dancing, drinking and it's NOT a club or bar, it's a wedding
-Always wear the proper undergarments, your bra and undies are meant to worn and not seen. Yes, wearing a slip is for every women no matter the age or size.

After you've taken all those things into consideration grab your "go-to" black dress and switch up the accessories accordingly. Just kidding BUT when all else fails everyone always looks classy and timeless in a black dress & fabulous accessories no matter the formality.
**YES, it is completely acceptable to wear black to a wedding**

That's all for now... please leave a comment if you have any other style tips and tricks you need help with.

Have a Fabulous Friday!

Emma
Lyn-Maree's Owner & Stylist

Accessorizing throughout the ages

Men and women have adorned themselves with jewelry since long before the age of reason! Garlands of flowers, bracelets of woven grass, shells, and stone; such were the first decorations to beautify the human body. We may have been wearing jewelry as far back as 75,000 years ago - 30,000 years earlier than previously believed - according to a recent report by National Geographic News.

Over the millennia, jewelry styles and materials have evolved in step with the advances of civilization. From the Stone Age to the Bronze Age, from the Iron Age to the Industrial Revolution (and seemingly back again!), styles have transformed, modernized, and then often returned to their most basic forms and essential elements.

So bottom line here is at Lyn-Maree's we cater not only to all age groups we cater to all styles. Something from classic to contemporary, trendy to timeless. Even our ancestors knew accessories were FUN. Stop in and let us show you how to pull it all together today.

Have a Fabulous Day & Hope to see You soon!

Lyn-Maree's
129 East 9th Street
Downtown Auburn, IN 46706
www.lyn-marees.com
lynmarees@gmail.com