Monday, March 5, 2012

FASHION: Playing Compliments with Colour

FASHION: Playing Compliments with Colour

FASHION: Playing Compliments with Colour by rebeccacleary featuring alexander mcqueen scarves

Spring is just around the corner - I can smell it! (Okay, not including today, as it snowed for the last 24 hours.) Needless to say, the above ensemble I created is indicative of some of spring 2012's hottest trends: brights and colour blocking. A fine example of a modern preppster; combining edgy trends with classic sihlouettes. The perfect ensemble to peruse a city by foot or run around doing errands - in style - without compromising comfort.

Combining two strong trends, like brights and colour blocking, can be difficult. You want to make sure the ensemble isn't too busy or complicated. Like the above look, be sure to keep things interesting and simple, by opting for clean lines, while adding some bursts of colour, then toning it down with basic neutrals.

Colour blocking can be done with various shades, however, I chose a bold selection of complimentary primary colours. This particular combo may not work for everyone, but is perfect for individuals whom fall into the "winter" category. Ladies with a lower contrast in their colouring, like myself, can also work the colour blocking/brights trend. Simply apply the same level of contrast that is in your own colouring, to the level of contrast in your garments, by selecting hues that are next to each other on the colour wheel (think blue and green).

If your personal style is less daring, you can still partake in these latest trends by opting for a  colour blocked handbag (as shown) or shoes AND don't underestimate make-up. For this particular outfit I chose two nail lacquers - with the idea of keeping most of your nails neutral, while adding a pop of blue on either the thumb, pointer or ring-finger and finishing with some electric blue eye-liner on lower lash-line. It may not work for the corporate world, but it's definitely a fun, on-trend look for people in creative careers, or of course, the weekend!

Need help updating your wardrobe? Unsure what latest trends work for you? Let us help. We are offering a special promotion: 2 for 1! This enables you and your friend to part-take in any service together for the price of one - that's half price! For more information go to: WWW.REBECCACLEARY.COM





Thursday, February 23, 2012

Fashion: Nine-to-Five Chic

Fashion: Nine-to-Five Chic

Fashion: Nine-to-Five Chic by rebeccacleary featuring genuine leather handbags



Are you a 9-5 girl? Do you always reach for the black dress or pants suit to play it safe? If so, you're not alone; many women (including myself at times) worry about being too "fashion forward" at work for fear of lowering credibility with colleagues, clients or the boss. It is a fine line, but it is possible to be fashionable and showcase some of your personality with-out losing your gravitas.

Chain strap purses, statement necklaces and bright lips and nails are all haute right now. This ensemble is the perfect example of how women can incorporate trends into their work wardrobe, ensuring they are conservative enough to maintain credibility, yet in a very non-boring, sophisticated way. Sending the message that they are professional, competent and current!

This look can also take you from the office to after-work cocktails or events. Simply lose the jacket and you are ready to go.

Do you need help building your wardrobe or personal style? Are you looking to get a promotion or interviewing for a new job? You are seen before you are heard. Don't risk losing credibility. Let us help you:  WWW.REBECCACLEARY.COM

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Lifestyle: Meaningful Flowers



Flowers talk; so it's no wonder they are the perfect way to telegraph our feelings on Valentine’s Day or any Holiday for that matter. However, for extra brownie points, I suggest sending them to your love on days that aren't marked on the calendar. There is nothing like receiving a beautiful bouquet when it's unexpected, just because....


Almost any type of flower is known to brighten one's day, but what are your favourites? Know what the meaning is behind your selection next time you opt to send flowers - be it to your mom, friend or the one you love. Here’s what some of the most popular Valentine’s Day blossoms communicate:


ACACIA -Concealed Love, Beauty in Retirement, Chaste Love
AMBROSIA -Your Love is Reciprocated
ARBUTUS -Thee Only Do I Love
ASTER -Symbol of Love, Daintiness
AZALEA -Take Care of Yourself for Me, Temperance, Fragile Passion, Chinese Symbol of Womanhood
BELLS OF IRELAND -Good Luck
BITTERSWEET -Truth
BLUEBELL -Humility
CACTUS -Endurance
CAMELLIA (PINK) -Longing for you
CAMELLIA (RED) -You're a Flame in My Heart
CAMELLIA (WHITE) -You're Adorable
CARNATION (PINK) -I'll Never Forget You
CARNATION (RED) -My Heart Aches For You, Admiration
CARNATION (SOLID COLOR) -Yes
CARNATION (STRIPED) -No, Refusal, Sorry I Can't Be With You, Wish I Could Be With You
CARNATION (WHITE) -Sweet and Lovely, Innocence, Pure Love, Woman's Good Luck Gift
CATTAIL -Peace, Prosperity
CHRYSANTHEMUM (GENERAL) -You're a Wonderful Friend, Cheerfulness and Rest.
CHRYSANTHEMUM (WHITE) -Truth
CHRYSANTHEMUM (YELLOW) -Slighted Love
CROCUS -Cheerfulness
CYCLAMEN -Resignation and Good-bye
DAFFODIL -Regard, Unrequited Love, You're the Only One, The Sun is Always Shining when I'm with You
DAISY -Innocence, Loyal Love, I'll Never Tell, Purity
DANDELION -Faithfulness, Happiness
FORGET-ME-NOT -True Love, Memories
FORSYTHIA -Anticipation
GARDENIA -You're Lovely, Secret Love
GLOXINIA -Love at First Sight
HEATHER (LAVENDER) -Admiration, Solitude
HEATHER (WHITE) -Protection, Wishes Will Come True
HOLLY -Defense, Domestic Happiness
HYACINTH (GENERAL) -Games and Sports, Rashness, Flower Dedicated to Apollo
HYACINTH (BLUE) -Constancy
HYACINTH (PURPLE) -I am Sorry, Please Forgive Me, Sorrow
HYACINTH (RED OR PINK) -Play
HYACINTH (WHITE) -Loveliness, I'll Pray for You
HYDRANGEA -Thank You for Understanding, Frigidity, Heartlessness
IRIS -Fleur-de-lis, Emblem of France, Your Friendship Means so Much to Me, Faith, Hope, Wisdom and Valor, My Compliments
IVY -Wedded Love, Fidelity, Friendship, Affection
JONQUIL -Love Me, Affection Returned, Desire, Sympathy, Desire for Affection Returned
LILY (WHITE) -Virginity, Purity, Majesty, It's Heavenly to be with You
LILY (YELLOW) -I'm Walking on Air, False and Gay
LILY (CALLA) -Beauty
LILY (DAY) -Coquetry, Chinese Emblem for Mother
LILY (EUCHARIS) -Maiden Charms
LILY (TIGER) -Wealth, Pride
LILY OF THE VALLEY -Sweetness, Tears of the Virgin Mary, Return to Happiness, Humility, You've Made My Life Complete
MAGNOLIA -Nobility
MISTLETOE -Kiss me, Affection, To Surmount Difficulties, Sacred Plant of India
MYRTLE -Love, Hebrew Emblem of Marriage
NARCISSUS -Egotism, Formality, Stay as Sweet as You Are
NASTURTIUM -Conquest, Victory in Battle
OLEANDER -Caution
ORANGE BLOSSOM -Innocence, Eternal Love, Marriage and Fruitfulness
ORCHID -Love, Beauty, Refinement, Beautiful Lady, Chinese Symbol for Many Children
ORCHID (CATTLEYA) -Mature Charm
PALM LEAVES -Victory and Success
PEONY -Shame, Happy Life, Happy Marriage
PETUNIA -Resentment, Anger, Your Presence Sooths Me
PINE -Hope, Pity
POPPY (GENERAL) -Eternal Sleep, Oblivion, Imagination
POPPY (RED) -Pleasure
POPPY (WHITE) -Consolation
POPPY (YELLOW) -Wealth, Success
PRIMROSE -I Can't Live Without You
ROSE (BRIDAL) -Happy Love
ROSE (DARK CRIMSON) -Mourning
ROSE (HIBISCUS) -Delicate Beauty
ROSE (LEAF) -You May Hope
ROSE (PINK) -Perfect Happiness, Please Believe Me
ROSE (RED) -Love, I Love You
ROSE (TEA) -I'll Remember Always
ROSE (THORNLESS) -Love at First Sight
ROSE (WHITE) -Innocence and Purity, I am Worthy of You, You're Heavenly, Secrecy and Silence
ROSE (WHITE AND RED MIXED) -Unity, Flower Emblem of England
ROSEBUD -Beauty and Youth, A Heart Innocent of Love
ROSEBUD (RED) -Pure and Lovely
ROSEBUD (WHITE) -Girlhood
ROSEBUD (MOSS) -Confessions of Love
ROSES (Bouquet of Mature Blooms) -Gratitude
ROSES (Single Full Bloom) -I Love You, I Still Love You
SMILAX -Loveliness
SWEETPEA -Good-bye, Departure, Blissful Pleasure, Thank You for a Lovely Time
TULIP (GENERAL) -Perfect Lover, Frame, Flower Emblem of Holland
TULIP (RED) -Believe Me, Declaration of Love
TULIP (YELLOW) -There's Sunshine in Your Smile
VIOLET -Modesty
VIOLET (BLUE) -Watchfulness, Faithfulness, I'll Always Be True
VIOLET (WHITE) -Let's Take a Chance
ZINNIA (MAGENTA) -Lasting Affection
ZINNIA (MIXED) -Thinking (or In Memory) of an Absent Friend
ZINNIA (SCARLET) -Constancy
ZINNIA (WHITE) -Goodness


Happy Valentine's Day! Remember to Spread the Love - Xo. 


Flower Meanings Compliments of: WWW.800FLORALS.COM

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Lifestyle: Nostalgia Bites




Are you a nostalgic individual who craves authentic experiences from the past decades? Planning on heading to the Bahamas to escape the cold? If so, be sure to experience dinner at the world-renowned Greycliff Hotel, Restaurant & Cigar Company. Set in a 260-year-old renovated British-Colonial-Style grand estate, the ambiance will transport you back in time to the glamour of the roaring 20’s. Abounding in a richly colorful history, you’ll revel in an atmosphere, which has hosted some of the world’s most fascinating individuals, such as Sir Winston Churchill, Al Capone, and the Duke & Duchess of Windsor, (formally King Edward VIII).

As greeted by the maître-d, Anthony (ask for him by name), your evening will begin as you sink into a luxurious vintage sofa and enjoy the sounds of a live piano, perfectly synchronized with the elegantly smoky voice of the entertainer. Feel free to request your faves, as she croons the best of the classics. A suited waiter will mix you a pre-dinner cocktail of your choice while you peruse the dinner menu and place your order. (I highly recommend a prohibition style cocktail to amplify the already convincing mood.) Cigar lover’s can relish in fresh cigars rolled in house, which may be either be enjoyed in the lounge, or taken home as a souvenir.

When appetizers are ready, you’ll be accompanied to your table, where you will enjoy an amazing French meets Bahemian cuisine. I promise that anything you order will be delicious to your palate and sweet tooth or not, you absolutely must indulge in the soufflé. It is a necessary part of the experience - what they are known for and simply divine.

For romantics or wine lovers, I suggest a private dinner in the cellar. This is a wine connoisseur's dream, carrying over 270,000 bottles of vino; hosting some of the some of the world ‘s most sought-after bottles from multiple vintages ranging at all price points. (The most expensive selection bottled in the 1727 and going for a mere $200,000.)

If you are looking for an afternoon delight - experience a wine and cheese pairing. This is perfect for a rainy day in paradise with a group of friends, but equally entertaining for you and your mate. I trust you’ll appreciate the undivided attention of the Chef and Sommelier, as they explain the selections they’ve made, but you’ll have equal amounts of fun tickling your taste buds by creating your own exquisite pairs.

My final tip: don’t fare thee well without purchasing a bottle of truffle honey. Served with cheese, crackers, walnuts and fruit preserves, you’ll have a little piece of heaven to share with friends at your next dinner-party. They will be as grateful as you were for the superb introduction.




Friday, January 6, 2012

Fashion: The Male Jetsetter

Fashion: Guy's Style Guide

Fashion: Guy's Style Guide by rebeccacleary featuring yves saint laurent sunglasses

Heading down south for a quick long weekend holiday? This time of year can be chilly,  even in the warmest climates; so, be sure to take that into consideration when packing.

Creating a wardrobe capsule in a versatile colour combination will ensure you get millage from a small suitcase.  Mixing and matching easy combos will make getting dressed and looking great easy - and that's what you want while on vacation.

The selection of items I've sourced above are a great start to a warm get-away capsule. You can layer pieces for chillier days, while making sure there is an outfit appropriate for any occasion; yet, still sticking to the goal to travel light (I'm aware this is a packing rule for most guys!).

Look your best, whether hitting the beach; strolling around the local town or dining at a "jacket required" hot spot. Simply add a few more versatile pieces to this already sharp base and be jet set ready!

Need help shopping or packing for an important upcoming vacation or business trip - we can help! For more information - check out - WWW.REBECCACLEARY.COM