The difference between style and fashion

Well said Ralph Lauren.  There is a big difference between style and fashion. 

Fashion is about following trends, devoting oneself to the whims of others.

Style is about finding oneself and being true to yourself.

New Years Ancient Traditions and Modern Reflections

As 2012 draws to a close, I am letting out a sigh of relief, if nothing else, at least I survived the Mayan calendar.  But what is it about a new year that promotes a sense of optimism of the coming new year?    Maybe the new year means new beginnings, a chance to start over, make resolutions that will improve the new year.

Celebrating the new year is ancient tradition.  Four thousand years ago, the ancient Babylonians ushered in the new year with with the first new moon after the Vernal Equinox (the first day of Spring).  Those Babylonians knew how to party, their new years celebrations lasted for 11 days.  

In 153 BC The Romans declared the new year to be January 1.  The Romans marked the new year by decorating their homes with light and greenery.  They also exchanged gifts.  (sound familiar?)  These gifts were chosen for their luck-bringing properties, such as sweets or honey to ensure peace, gold, silver monetary presents to ensure prosperity, and lamps for a year filled with light. It was also the time of the year to expel the ills of the previous year, and establish a positive pattern for the new year. 

Celebrating the new year is an ancient tradition.  Although I don't think I will party like a Babylonian, I plan to celebrate the conclusion of 2012.  I think I will take a more Roman-esque approach, purge the ills of last year, and prepare for self-improvement this year. 

By the way, if anybody intends to follow the Roman tradition of gift-giving, I will gladly accept and appreciate gifts of gold and silver.

Heureuse Nouvelle Aannée mes amis!

'Tis the Season to have some fun!

Take a break from Christmas shopping and have some fun!

'Tis the Season!  

Follow this link to find Holiday events in Tampa Bay this weekend. 

There is something to do for everybody!

When Black Friday Comes

I will be the first to admit I am not a fan of Black Friday shopping. I would rather spend the day after Thanksgiving blissfully eating leftovers and going in and out of a turkey coma. I may even rally at some point and attempt some sort of work out to wash away the guilt that almost always follows a holiday wholly devoted to overeating. 

My children are adults, so I don't have wake up in the middle of the night in a cold sweat wondering if I will ever to be able to find that one elusive toy or gadget that was on their Santa wish list. Thankfully, my children were not demanding spoiled little brats. I would not tolerate that type of attitude from my descendants. 

Ready or not, the Christmas season, or the time we celebrate Christ's birthday, which has been hijacked by rampant materialism is upon us. If you do insist on driving yourself mad and participating in the Black Friday mess, follow the link below for my Black Friday Survivlal Guide.

http://www.examiner.com/article/black-friday-survival-guide

I wrote this article a few years ago, but the advise is still good. Besides, I get about a penny for every hit on that blog, and well, it is Christmas and mama needs some new boots!

Happy Thanksgiving!  Make the most of the holiday. Enjoy time with your family and those who mean the most to you.

If you do insist on engaging in the Black Friday madness, remember your manners, and do try to be civilized. A little kindness goes a long way. 

Let's keep Acid Washed Jeans in the Past

forever21.com

Somebody please tell me, are acid-washed denim jeans coming back?  And if so, why? 

I saw a girl wearing  acid-washed skinny jeans yesterday, and I was almost tempted to ask her if she was a victim of some unfortunate bleach-and-washing machine mishap.  But she was bigger than me, and I decided to consider her a misguided fashionista-wanna-be.  

When I got home I did a quick google search, and much to my horror, I believe acid washed jeans are back.

Come on, if we are really going bring back a fashion from the 80's can it please be big hair!  (That works for me)  What's next - mom jeans?

Bloglovin!

You can now follow me on Bloglovin!

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Fall 2012 Fashion

It is that time to start thinking what we are going to wear this fall.  Blacks, bold blues and vibrant reds are what is trending from the runways for this fall.  

Cinched wastes are back again.  Black boots or dark leggings cover the leg.  My favorite new trend is long glove that stretch above the elbow because they always look elegant.  

To see four of my favorite designers looks Tory Burch, Carolina Herrera, Michael Kors, and Oscar de la Renta visit my Examiner article

http://www.examiner.com/article/fall-fashion-for-florida

photo credit:
http://collegecandy.com/2009/02/18/rock-the-look-fall-fashion-trends-courtesy-of-new-york-fashion-week/

Although I it may seem I have been neglecting this blog, I have been busy providing content for Examiner.com  Here are the links to my content.  

http://www.examiner.com/style-in-tampa-bay/jacquelyn-zalar

http://www.examiner.com/charity-106-in-tampa-bay/jacquelyn-zalar



Please follow me at Examiner.com

I also have a lot to say, and I will be continuing to publish here!  

Passez une bonne journée mes amis!

Black and White

I have to admit, I have become a little obsessed with redecorating using only black and white.  

I was first inspired by this color scheme when I was window shopping in Paris.  (Of course who wouldn't be inspired window-shopping in Paris)

And then I saw the same black and white color scheme used in Los Angeles. 

Since then, I have been window-shopping on the internet for inspiration on how to put together the perfect black and white room.

I want a mix of "Old Hollywood" with Victorian touches.

Like this chandelier...

...paired with this sofa, 

and maybe a nice chair

and footstool to complete the room.

Decisions, decisions.  I think it is may be time to redecorate.