Spring 2011: Trends That Left the Fashion Schools Buzzing (the rest of us too…)

The new year is proving to be a very interesting and eclectic year in fashion. Watching the trends that came down the runways for Spring 2011, left everyone with a sparkle in their eyes and a skip in their step (it wasn’t just the champagne!) Looking at the bright, bold and fresh spring trends reminiscent of a fashion school graduate’s first show (meant in the most flattering way possible) reminds us that fashion is not dead, drab or boring anymore. There has been new life brethed into the clothing world and it is going to be an exciting spring.

Top 5 Spring 2011 Trends:
1. Bold Colours: While nude is still nice, bold is fashion’s secret weapon this spring. Dazzling hues of orange, green and blue make everything new and clean again (not neon!). Designers have taken inspiration from fresh fruits, Dr. Seuss, and the freshness of the season. For those who like to rock – wear it head to toe. For those who like to stand out a little less, buy some fabulously bright accessories and wow the crowd. Staples: oranges, greens and blues.

2. Feminine and Flirty: Nothing says feminine like the sultry 60s housewife-inspired look for the spring. Mad Men’s Christina Hendricks reall knows how to fill out a sheath, and designers took notice. The hourglass figure is back, ladies and gents. Don’t have a curvy bod? Pick up a full skirt and tiny belt and cinch that waist up. The full skirt is the perfect paradox for day and a perfect option for those who don’t like flaunt what they’ve got. Staples: full skirt, fitted sweater, sheath dress and kitten heels.

3. Biker Chic: Replacing the uber-popular military trend that has plagued designers for more than a decade, biker jackets and quilted leather pants are suddenly all the rage. But don’t go for basic black and matted leather; think metallic and futuristic. Then pair it with a funky pair of biker boots and you’re good to go. Staples: bikeresque jacket, biker boots.

4. Punk-ish: While punk has been an underground favourite for years now, the newness has faded away, much like the washed out founders of the style. But the anguished and independent message remains, as do certain elements of the style. Studs, leather and holey shirts are pieces you can pair with other solid pieces of clothing. Don’t over do it, and you won’t drown. Staples: ripped or worn tees, Doc Martens and something studded.

5. Disco Dream: The 70s are back, and that’s the way, uh-huh, uh-huh, the designers like it. This time around, though, the feathered do’s and flared pants are elegant inspired. Statement belts and billowing sleeves finish off the look for day; while sophisticated bohemian dresses and a few well-placed chunky rings will blow people’s minds in the evening. Farrah would be proud. Staples: Flared pants, blouses and a fantastically long dress.

There you have it: the styles and inspiration behind 2011 fashion trends. Fashion careers have been built on less and lesser trends have been appearing for years. Have fun and be fashionable!

Lilly Gordon is a freelance writer and web publisher. She enjoys writing on a variety of topics and is currently researching fashion design schools in Canada.

Top 5 Christmas Gift Ideas on a Budget

The holiday season can be one of the most magical times of the year. But every year as I watch another penny, nickel, dollar, or twenty go through my fingers, it gets less and less magical. Christmas gifts for your loved ones are sometimes hard to come by when you’re on a strict budget. And just because you have a budget doesn’t mean you have to feel like Scrooge, or like you’re giving less than desirable gifts. (Massages at esthetic schools aren't any less relaxing!)

Here is a great list of some inexpensive Christmas gift ideas for those of us who have to be a little more frugal this year:

Christmas Ornaments: Personalized Christmas ornaments are a great idea. They are sentimental, thoughtful and … cheap! (The first two attributes cancel out the last.) Don’t count these out as a gift idea.

Day Spa Package: That’s right, you read correctly… get that special person in your life a gift certificate to a local beauty salon or day spa – located in the nearest cosmetology school. Nearby esthetic schools are the perfect place for a day of relaxation, at a fraction of the cost. They have all of the same services, priced much lower than other salons or day spas: manicures, full body massages, you name it. Why spend more when you can get the same luxuries for less.

Music: Nothing says “I care” like a mixed CD… Luckily there are even better ways to express that sentiment these days. If the lucky person you’re buying for has an MP3 player of any kind, why not let them choose their own tunes? Give them an iTunes gift card (available in $5 denominations) and let them make their very own mixed CD.

Picture Collage: For less than $20, you can pick up a picture frame, print off 6-8 pictures of good times in the past (black and white look just as snazzy) and make a lasting impression on a friend or relative. For an extra special touch, buy a metallic pen and write some special captions by the photos. And, voila! A truly thoughtful, wonderful gift.

Baking: Homemade baking is one of the single yummiest gifts ever! Baking tins are usually available at dollar stores or big lot stores. Just make some delectable, digestible goodies; pack ‘em up and you’re ready for Christmas!

There you have it: five perfectly thoughtful, wonderful, joyful and, ahem, inexpensive, Christmas gift ideas. Remember: Christmas doesn’t have to break the bank!

Lilly Gordon is a freelance writer and publisher. She enjoys writing on a variety of topics, and is currently researching esthetic schools and beauty salons in Canada.

Is Business Coaching the Right Career for You?

In North America’s ever-changing economy, we are seeing an alarming trend that hasn’t happened for decades: Mid and Senior-level professionals wondering “What now?” So many have been left out in the cold due to restructuring, downsizing and bankruptcy; and in this fast paced life, so many are ready for a change. A stellar option for those considering a career change is business coaching.

Business Coaching is a career that has really taken off in the past two years. Why? Because there are so many people starting again. Starting their own businesses and trying to do for themselves what their employers couldn’t do for them: balance and success.

What is Business Coaching?
Business Coaching is known by many names: business consulting, executive coaching, mentor, etc. These are fancy terms for a strategist. This is a position for people that have 10-15 years of experience in Mid or Senior-level management; experienced professionals who want to share their knowledge with others that would like to succeed in the same areas.

To become a successful mentor, consider that you should have experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Marketing /Communications
• Sales
• Operations
• Entrepreneurship
• Law
• Management
• Human Relations or Internal Communications
• Consulting

Business Consultants should be very experienced professionals and should be certified by a reputable business coach training program.

Who Needs a Business Coach?
All business owners, operators and managers should consider a business consultant, especially if they are researching how to start a small business, or trying to get their company off the ground.

Mentors or business coaches can offer many services to these companies and can answer tough questions and help find the right strategies and tools to navigate the tough corporate road ahead.

As a business coach you can help organizations:

• Find competent, fresh employees
• Gain time management skills (at home or in the office)
• Construct new business models
• Stay ahead of their increased competition
• Calculate exit strategies and train new managers
• Become more successful financially

Why Business Coaching?
The trend in business : life balance is on an upswing as professionals realize that life doesn’t stop for work. Professions like mentoring offer many perks. When you become a business coach, you are a freelance professional so to speak, able to make your own hours and schedule and create the life you desire. This career is perfect for those who love to create and expand people’s business opportunities, including their own. The ability to collaborate and strategize with those business owners or managers that are in need of some sound planning and advice will make you a valuable asset to any organization looking for the keys to success.

Lilly Gordon is a freelance writer and publisher. She writes on a variety of topics including business opportunities, the economy, and business consulting.