Your bedroom should be your sanctuary. It’s a place where you can be by yourself to think and relax. As such, it should reflect your preferences and personality. If your room is starting to feel bland, you may wish to redecorate. Getting all new decorations and furnishings can be expensive, so here’s how you can do it without purchasing a single thing.

Rearrange Furniture

One of the best ways to freshen up your room is to move the furniture around. Think about your normal actions. Do you have to go a long way in between your dresser and your closet? If so, you may want to move them closer. Is your dirty clothes hamper near where you usually undress? Moving it closer will reduce the likelihood of you leaving your clothes on the floor. Take note of any empty blocked space. Empty blocked space refers to parts of the room that are unusable, or inconvenient to use because of the spacing of the furniture. For example, a 6-inch gap between a desk and a bookshelf. By reducing the amount of empty blocked spaces, your room will start to feel bigger.

Change Up the Colors

Color has a huge impact on the human psyche. Warm colors are great for happiness, optimism, and energy. While this might be good for your morale, it may not make sleeping easy. Cooler colors can help with calming and soothing. They can sometimes have the effect of sadness. For a drastic change in color, try combining decorating styles for a new, fresh look. You don’t have to paint your room to change up the colors. Instead, consider switching some of the blankets you have in your closet with the ones that are on your bed. Look at the books in your bookshelf. Pull out a few of the more interesting ones and place them partially opened on top of the bookshelf as a form of decoration.

Rearrange Your Wall Hangings

You can make a big impact by rearranging your hangings on the wall. Some people like to cover every square inch of their wall with posters and photos. This can make for a very intriguing collage. Others like to space their wall decorations evenly. A more unique approach is to leave all the walls bare except for one. This gives the room a feature wall that draws the attention. A good choice would be to select something that is easily seen while you lie in bed.

While there are certainly many good design rules out there, it’s important to remember that these are more like guidelines than actual rules. At the end of the day, if you like how your room looks, then it’s going to be great! Just try not to make it too cluttered, as this can make your room a stressful place to be.

Read this next: Bored of your room? Try these unique home makeover ideas!

The winter months bring a lot of wonderful things with them. Winter brings snow, ice skating, skiing, hot chocolate, bonfires and more. It also, of course, brings the cold. This is the time of year when shorts and sandals are put away, and scarves and sweaters come out. However, just because dressing for winter means dressing in layers and bundling up, it doesn’t mean you can’t still look amazing.

Coats and Jackets

No winter wardrobe is complete without a warm, beautiful coat. There are all types of jackets and coats out there designed to fit any taste. For warmth and comfort, nothing beats big, fluffy, oversized goose down coats. They are incredibly warm and make you feel like you’re inside a giant marshmallow. If you want something more professional, parkas are perfect. Their long length makes them look elegant, and the thick insulation keeps you quite toasty. For an edgier, more casual look, faux-fur lined leather jackets are a great choice, and if you’re looking for something more sporty, ski or snow jackets will do the trick. No matter your style, there is a coat or jacket out there for you. Just be sure to find one warm enough for the climate in which you live.

Boots and Shoes

The best footwear option for the colder months is, of course, an attractive pair of boots. Boots are a comfortable, stylish and most importantly, warm choice for both men and women. There are work boots and steel-toed boots for rugged, outdoor activities, chic leather, fur and cloth boots for casual outfits and dressy ankle-, calf- or even thigh-high boots for more upscale occasions. However, if you’re one of those people who simply must wear sneakers year-round, make sure they are up to the challenge. They’ll need to be made of warm material, such as leather, suede or shearling, and you’ll definitely want them to be waterproof. Furthermore, anywhere you walk outdoors is bound to be slick and icy. Therefore, it’s important to choose boots and shoes that have good traction on them in order to stay safe from common slip and fall hazards that you may encounter this winter.

Accessories

Don’t discount the appeal of accessories this winter, either. You can find all kinds of unique accessories to make you look totally fashionable while also keeping out the cold. Gloves and scarves are common accessories for winter, but they aren’t the only ones. Keeping your head warm is very important to maintaining body heat. This can be achieved with beanies, knit caps, toboggans, and even some hats, all of which can be very representative of your own personal style. Balaclavas can even work under the right circumstances. Other lesser-used but just as relevant winter accessories include shawls, wraps, woolen socks, leg warmers, fuzzy earmuffs, tights, long johns, headbands and more. In addition to looking fantastic when paired with the right outfit, these items are also usually made of soft, snuggly material that will make you feel like you’re walking around in a cloud.

Winter is no longer defined by frumpy sweatshirts and matching stirrup sweatpants. In fact, your winter wardrobe can be just as sexy and appealing as your summer one. Plus, who doesn’t love an excuse to go buy new clothes? So make a shopping list, and check it twice, because this winter you’re going to look better than nice!

Making the step up from the rack to designer brands is always exciting. You will often have the perfect item in mind before you get it and the day when it is actually yours is always going to be exciting. However, there are some things you should think about along the way. Here are some of the things you should think about when buying your first designer item.

Why Do You Want It?

Before you even start thinking about how you are going to buy the designer piece, you should think about why you want it. Many young people want to buy designer pieces because they think it will give them some sense of worth or they will come off as particularly stylish to friends and acquaintances. These are not good reasons to buy designer pieces and they can leave you feeling frustrated if you do not get the response you are looking for. One of the best reasons why you should buy designer brands is that you simply like the look of their goods and how they make you feel when you wear them — not just to impress others.

Find a Genuine Seller

The problem with designer goods is that fakes pop up all over the market. A dedicated seller like SSENSE is always going to be able to provide you with genuine goods instead of knock-offs. You need to be extremely careful as fake designer goods can look incredibly convincing. Scammers can now even duplicate the certificate of authenticity which comes with the priciest of goods to try and swindle even the most careful of designer lovers.

One of the easiest ways to catch a scammer out is the price. If something is listed for a price which is too good to be true, you will most likely be looking at something which is fake. Don’t be tempted to grab those Gucci sneakers at the lower price; you are only going to be picking up a fake pair and lining the pockets of a scammer.

Choose Something You Will Use

Some people are tempted to buy a beautiful dress when they shop for their designer goods. However, this means that you might wear it once for a special occasion like a birthday and then never reach for it again. If you instead pick something which has plenty of wearability, you are likely to get more use out of it and therefore much better value for money.

For example, many people choose either a pair of shoes or a handbag for their first designer item. By buying one of these, you will know that you are likely to use it quite a bit and it won’t just sit in your closet.

Buying your first designer item is an important milestone. While it requires some careful thought, you should make sure you find the perfect piece for your style. It might take a little while to track down but you should make sure you find something which you know you are going to love forever. The right designer good is out there waiting for you to buy it.

Receiving jewelry can be a great gift, whether it’s for a birthday, graduation, or some other occasion. Rings, necklaces, and other items should be cared for to ensure that they last a lifetime. Knowing about your jewelry item will empower you to make the right decisions to keep it clean and in good shape to last a lifetime or more.

Know Where to Store It

You need to know where and how to store your jewelry properly. Jewelry boxes can be a great starting point as long as you have enough room. If there are too many chains, they can become knotted very easily. Higher-end jewelry should be stored in a safe so that it’s kept safe from the possibility of theft. Then, when you want to wear it, you can remove it from the safe for a particular occasion.

When to Wear It

Jewelry should be worn based on the occasion, not all the time. It might be necessary to remove jewelry based on what activity you’re involved in. If you’re going swimming, no jewelry should be worn because it can slip from your fingers or tarnish due to the chlorine. If you’re working with heavy machinery or near moving parts, rings should be removed so that they don’t get crushed, potentially causing damage to your finger at the same time. Necklaces tend to get caught in moving parts, too, especially if they’re longer.

How to Clean It

You should be cleaning your jewelry on a regular basis so that sediment doesn’t get in and around the stones. Silver can tarnish, too, leaving dark marks on the jewelry that make it less attractive. Not all jewelry can be cleaned the same way, especially if you have an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner. You have to look at what is and isn’t advised to go into the machine.

How to Protect It

Some jewelry can be extremely valuable, so it’s a good idea to find out how you can effectively protect it. Rings and other jewelry should be taken to jewelers periodically to be inspected. If there’s a loose diamond, for example, it can be addressed before you lose the stone.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to look at having your valuable jewelry covered under an insurance policy. If you’re still living at home, find out if your parents can add your pieces to their homeowners policy. If you’re on your own, look into your own policies. There may be a warranty that comes with new jewelry, too, allowing you to register it on the company’s website.

By learning more about the jewelry that you have, you can be sure to take care of it properly. It will allow you to keep your jewelry looking great for many years to come.

Jewelry isn’t the only valuable thing to protect — your car needs protection, too. Click here for tips on how to protect your car, yourself, and others following an accident.

When you’re headed to church on Sunday, the outfit that you choose to wear ultimately reflects your personal taste and style. It’s important to look nice so you can feel confident because there are just too many things that can bring you down. If you want to look stylish on Sundays, here are a few things to incorporate into your wardrobe.

Platform Sandals

Platform sandals were most commonly thought of in regards to the ‘90s, but they have officially made a comeback! They are favored for their feminine style that can be dressed up or down, so they’re good for pretty much any situation. The shoes add a bit of height and pair well with culottes or a summer dress without appearing too casual. There are many styles of platform styles to choose from, which often include thick straps and neutral color shades. Platform sandals also look great with a pair of capri pants. They’re also comfortable, easy to slip on and off, and don’t make you walk differently, so they’re all around pretty great.

Maxi Dresses

Maxi dresses continue to be one of the top trends to wear during the warmer months of the year because they’re fashionable and comfortable. The maxi dress is a great fallback when you need something elegant and yet simple. The length of the dress creates a semi-formal look that can be enhanced with a wide-brimmed hat or a pair of wedges. At night, it can even be dressed up with a leather jacket. Ultimately, they are a good, no fuss outfit that can be used at pretty much any time of the year.

Puffed Shoulders

Puffed shoulders used to be seen as kind of tacky, or from the not-so-distant past of your mom or aunt’s closet, but the ‘80s are back in a big way! So long as they’re not too big, they add a touch of glamour and drama to blouses and dresses. The puffed shoulders trend is a nod to the ’80s, as well as the Victorian era. They work well with blue jeans and are upscale enough to make you look appropriate when heading to church or brunch on Sunday. 

Leopard Print

Leopard print has recently been seen on the runway and continues to be in style for its exotic design that is regal and bold. Consider incorporating a leopard print garment into your outfit to add extra flair that is daring and feminine. A leopard print pencil skirt or a leopard print fur coat will make a statement when you want to turn heads with a timeless piece that can stay in your wardrobe for many decades. The print is known to instantly elevate any outfit with the increased visual appeal that it offers. Just don’t overdo it, because leopard print everything can be a little bit overwhelming.

Embracing the latest trends will allow you to put together unforgettable outfits each Sunday as you spend time with family members and friends. By looking your absolute best, you can show off a contemporary style that is both chic and glamorous.

These other great articles also have some great information, check them out!

• Top Essentials for Easy, Chic Travel Dressing
• How Can I Put a Great Wardrobe Together on a Budget?

It is getting hot out and all the events are coming your way! Want to switch up your look a bit? Whatever events you need to attend, whether it be numerous summer weddings or holidays at the lake, you need to be prepared! Summer months mean exciting new summer trends. These trends can range anywhere from makeup to clothing and there are endless amounts of options. Keep reading for inspiration!

Makeup Trends You’re Going To See Everywhere This Summer

Lash Extensions

The summer can pack so much heat that even the most waterproof makeup doesn’t stand a chance. In cases like these, mascara isn’t the best option due to how messy it can be. A better option is eyelash extensions from The Lash Professional! Getting eyelash extensions is a luxurious process that can be relaxing and customizable. A great way to spice it up is to have colorful eyelash extensions whether it be green or rainbow colored.

Colorful Eyeshadows

Colorful eyeshadows are the newest trend in the market. Bold makeup is a great form of self-expression and art. This is the trendiest form of makeup for the summer that is both a statement and easy to embrace. It all started on the red carpet where numerous famous celebrities embraced this eye-catching look. This means you will never get bored with the endless array of fun summer colors to choose from.

Glowy Skin

There is no better time than the summer to have a bronzed glowing skin look. Glowy skin has always been a trend for women even beyond those hot summer months. Some would go to great lengths to try to achieve this look from doing face masks to completely changing their diet, glowing skin is the timeless look everyone strives to achieve. Thanks to makeup, glowing skin is now much easier to achieve without drastic changes to your lifestyle. Get the look by using makeup products such as highlighters and bronzers–the top two summer makeup items to have.

Glitter Eyeshadow

A spin on the eyeshadow trend listed above. Glitter eyeshadow is more commonly used for significant events, as opposed to your day-to-day look. Unfortunately, it’s also more time consuming to put on and take off. However, if applied correctly it’s worth the hassle. Glitter eyeshadow can be worn anywhere from festivals and concerts to weddings or Halloween night. It all depends on how bold you choose to be!

Bold Eyeliner

Makeup is the most noticeable way to alter your look. The makeup you wear can impact your view of yourself as well as others perceptions of you. For example, you make a statement when you walk into a room wearing a striking blue eyeliner. It shows that you are fierce, confident, and independent! With that said, it’s important to stick to what you feel comfortable with, but if you’re looking to break out of your comfort zone, this is the perfect way to do so!

Stay True to You

In the end, no matter what summer trends you to try, be confident and be yourself. With a smile on your face and a pep in your step, you’ll rock any look.

It’s officially prom season and Tony Odisho has a cute and easy updo tutorial for it. This elegant hairstyle can work well with just about any prom dress, plus it’s insanely easy to create. All you need is: Dry Shampoo, Flexible Hairspray, Strong Hairspray, and an Infrared Curling Iron. Here’s how!

Step 1: On DRY hair, apply dry shampoo, such as Ostia Collection Dry Shampoo. This will help add some texture. Plus the Ostia formula is talc-free, so it leaves zero residue! Then apply Flexible Hairspray. This acts as a heat protectant and it offers a buildable hold that’s perfect for updos.

Step 2: Using the Ostia Collection Infrared Curling Iron, create soft curls for added texture and volume in the updo.Tease hair at the crown of the head to create even more volume. Lightly brush out hair afterwards.

Step 3: Pin into a bouffant, leaving plenty of face-framing pieces in front.

Step 4: Take a piece of hair from the right side and twist it slightly, then pull it across the head, beneath the bouffant. Pin into place.

Step 5: Repeat the previous step, this time going from left to right.

This style can be worn to prom as is or with the following steps you can create an updo!

Step 6: To turn this into an updo, repeat steps 4 & 5 listed, alternating sides piece by piece, each lower than the next (down towards your back).

Step 8: Finish pinning everything into place, then spray with Ostia Collection Strong Hairspray to hold the style while you dance the night away.

And that’s it! It’s an easy yet elegant updo, perfect for prom.

More about Tony Odisho:

Tony Odisho, President and Founder of Tony Odisho, began his career in Rome, Italy, where he studied cosmetology at the prestigious Marelena Academy. Young and ambitious, Odisho immigrated to the United States determined to bring the best beauty practices from Europe. He was promptly hired by L’Oreal Professionnel to work as an educator and color expert. Tony then opened his acclaimed salon and spa, Exsalonce, in Roscoe Village, Chicago.. Tony’s reputation as a master extensionist and businessman landed him an executive position for a major hair extensions brand. In 2009, Tony saw the need for his own line of high end hair extensions. He created Tony Odisho , offering the best quality extensions and everything needed to apply and care for them. Tony Odisho, Beauty for Life. Tony Odisho is still a master stylist and a member of the prestigious Intercoiffure America-Canada.