Mask Fashion in the age of COVID-19

Depending on your place of residence many businesses and healthcare facilities require that everyone wear a mask during their visit. The “mask vs not wearing a mask” debate can be a controversial subject but we’d rather focus on embracing the mandate and having fun doing so! I encourage you to use this opportunity to show more of your personality through fun mask fashion. Whether you have a favorite sports team, TV show, personal style, or a great sense of humor, now is the time to show it off.

Maggie Mullen and Kelsey Ahern of Marysville, Ohio are both working mothers that started sewing masks for one another and their families to keep each other safe. They realized the masks they were creating were some of the most comfortable and functional masks they had personally encountered in the market. From that point on they decided to start a Facebook page and share their masks with the community which then turned into a booming business, The Sewing Ladies of Seventh. Soon after, they launched the tag #showmeyoursafeface to boost awareness of mask safety.

These two friends and neighbors enjoy shopping for fun fabrics and accessories to go with the masks that work for all ages and personalities. The world is forever changing, especially during these times, and more and more people find themselves searching for outlets for self-expression to feel normal. But what is normal? Right now, the new normal is about safety and staying educated. Many parents are facing uncertainty and ups and downs surrounding discussions over school openings. Here’s another learning moment for all of us. The children are watching and learning from us adults, so why not share how fun mask-wearing can be?

Let’s start with basic coordinating with colors for your outfit. What colors bring you happiness? Pair those together and that’s a great start. Did you know certain colors can boost your mood? That’s right, google it. You can wear solid colors or mini prints with just about any outfit. Let’s say you want to be bolder and mix patterns, just remember to still coordinate the colors.

Maybe you like something edgy and enjoy accessories, or maybe you are apt to lose things. Mask chains are another trend and can be worn like an eyeglass chain so you don’t misplace your mask. It can be worn in front or behind your mask depending on the look you are going for. Also, it can be worn without the mask as a regular necklace! All of these masks and chain accessories were created by The Sewing Ladies of Seventh and are the epiphany of showing how mask fashion can be fun to wear.

Whether you are pro or anti-mask, just remember that everyone on either side believes they are right, so be kind to one another until we figure out how to maneuver through this new world. Let’s all do the best we can to get through these trying times together!

Models: Maggie Mullen co-owner of Plumm Home and The Sewing Ladies of Seventh and Kelsey Ahern (wearing the glasses) school educator and co-owner of The Sewing Ladies of Seventh

Model and Fashion Coordinator: Courtney Smith of Ran.dom.o.si.ty 7.4.0

Indoor and Downtown Venue: Plumm Home Outdoor Venue; Redbarn Vineyard in Marysville, Ohio.

Handbags from Plumm Home

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Are you an introvert that finds social distancing much harder than you had imagined? And if you’re an extrovert, surely this can’t be easy.  Not everyone has the luxury of staying at home with their families or friends right now. Let’s try to embrace this strange time and make a difference in how we stay virtually connected with our loved ones. It may even inspire you to continue to do these activities moving forward. If you don’t have an app on your phone for video chat, then you can sign-up for accounts such as Zoom or use Skype for your video chats.  There are also mobile-friendly apps like FaceTime, Google Hangouts, and WhatsApp.

Looking for new ways to connect? Here are a few recommendations on how to stay connected while social distancing!

Start a virtual book club: No more excuses for not having enough time to read!

Host a virtual potluck dinner party: How often do you get to host a dinner with everyone’s busy schedules? Suggest everyone dress-up and cook the same dishes. However, each person picks out one dish they want the others to cook so it seems like a potluck.

Cook with a friend over video chat: Try new recipes with your friend and create a theme. You could even dress to match the theme. French cuisine? Wear a beret!

Coffee Chat: Start your day off right with great conversation with your friends over video chat, with your favorite cup of home-brewed coffee.

YouTube DIY’s or classes: There are so many different topics you can search for that will teach you how to cook, paint, decorate, style, etc. Think of something you’ve been wanting to learn but haven’t had the time to yet. Search it on YouTube and decide which video works best for you!

In-home Date night: Why not have a dinner and movie night at home? Order in your favorite restaurant’s food so neither of you has to cook. Then dress up like it’s a night out on the town. Have your partner ring the doorbell to “pick you up” when it’s time to begin!

Camp inside: If the weather is too cold or not suitable for staying outdoors, then camp inside and stargaze. Turn off the lights and watch virtual stargazing on YouTube while laying on your back.

Virtual Gym: Miss going to the gym? There are virtual classes out there and you can FaceTime your workout buddy so you can still encourage and motivate each other.

Virtual Movie Night: You and a friend can watch the same movie over video chat so you can talk about the movie in real-time or after the movie. Pop some popcorn and indulge in your favorite movie theater treat!

Get creative and have fun!  If you have any other activities you’ve been doing, comment and share to inspire others.

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Did you know that there are several locally-owned shops right here in the Mid-Ohio Valley that cater to both men and women? If you aren’t familiar with Ashton Preston, he is what we would call a local fashion influencer. He and I partnered up to illustrate ways for both men and women to shop our local small businesses together.

We decided to start with adding pieces to our existing outfits as we shopped around. Our first stop was Wit & Whimzy. You can always find unique jewelry in this quaint location. Ashton found a coin necklace as well as some spoon rings.  Yes, men, you can wear these styles too! Ashton wears them perfectly and shows a great way to style them together.

I was able to find the perfect match for bringing out the white flecks of fabric in my top. I chose a long pendant necklace that showcased the white and then paired it with a gray and black earring to add some interest to the look.

The next stop was right next door at Schafer Leather. Ashton found the perfect piece to add to his outfit which was this chain wallet. 

I was able to find a handbag that coordinated wonderfully with my shoes and added this faux fur-trimmed vest to spice up the look. I added one more piece to complete the outfit and that was this gray fedora with a black ribbon.

Ashton is also wearing a pair of shoes from Horner & Harrison which is also another co-ed shopping venue. So the next time you want to shop with the opposite sex in the same place, remember these shops so you can frequent them together.

Photographer: Kelsey Preston @k_pres

Models: Ashton  Preston @ash_pres and Courtney Smith @randomosity740

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During the holidays there are lots of office parties and family events to attend where it’s fun to dress up and be festive. However, there are still events after Christmas that call for us ladies to sparkle and dazzle! First and foremost we have New Year’s Eve parties. Whether your need is a ball gown or a simple sparkle the local boutiques have your needs covered. At the end of the day, everyone primarily wants to feel confident in their wardrobe. Depending on your style here are some options to fit your needs.

Teri Ann’s is a household name when it comes to fashion in Marietta. After all, Think Fashion. Think Teri Ann’s!  Here are some looks styled to show a fun and glamorous way to ring in the New Year.

This black sweater jacket has just enough sparkle to make an impact and when paired with a mink stole it helps add fun texture and warmth. A simple satin camisole with a beautiful draping is the perfect mix for a sequin skirt.  If the need for color occurs add in a fun colorful tight such as this green pair.

In order to create some drama you could go with a grunge-style eye. This is the time of year to get away with something that isn’t worn on a daily routine. Never forget that beautiful jewels are a must when it comes to completing a look such as this and a simple soft curl.

If pants and comfort are more your speed then this look will have you saying, “yes, please!” This ponte fabric pant with a sequin racer stripe was a crowd favorite during this shoot. The stretch was magnificent and the details for the whole look caused it to really pack a punch for a glamorous feel. From the faux fur vest to the bell sleeve top, this look can be worn by many. 

This called for a vamp-inspired make-up style and lead for the perfect way to add some color. In order to finish the look a half-up double braid was a unique way to bring a sporty look to this outfit.

Another glamorous spot in the MOV for those in need of ball gowns, prom dresses, cocktail attire, and anything between is Elizabeth Michaels in Vienna. These next looks are divine!

Speaking of color, someone might grow green with envy for this dress. The luxurious velvet with just enough sparkle will have you swooning. The martini clutch and faux fur wrap were the perfect way to finish this look.

When doing a modern up-do and a cut-crease eye make sure to include the perfect drop earring to tie everything together.

This last look is a statement all on its own. The silver metallic is the perfect way to end this story. It doesn’t need to have much more added to make this look complete.

A fun way to introduce a touch of color is this beautiful statement earring. It looked magnificent! Can someone say red carpet? A dark lip with a touch of glitter on the eye was the best way to celebrate this style along with a modern take on a crimped hairstyle.

If you need another reason to dress-up with a lot of sparkle this year don’t forget about the Sparkly Ladies Night party happening on Saturday, March 7th benefitting Eve, Inc. for 2020. This year’s theme is Lights, Camera, Sparkle: Hollywood through the Ages. For more information visit www.hottomatopinupacademy.com Tickets sell out quickly so don’t delay in supporting this important cause!

Photographer: Andi Roberts of Hot Tomato Pin-up Academy @hottomatoportraits

Fashion Stylist: Courtney Smith of Ran.dom.o.si.ty 7.4.0 @randomosity740

Make-up Artist: Brittany Collins of Make-up by Brittany C. @makeupbybrittanyc

Hair Stylist: Nikki Fields of Le Colour Bar @lecolourbar

Models: Denise Huffman, Courtney Smith, Angie Reich, and Jessica Fatkin

All earrings and ball gowns from Elizabeth Michaels

Clutches, necklaces and remaining outfits from Teri Ann’s (excluding shoes)

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When it comes to getting dressed for Thanksgiving and all of the shopping that goes along with it, I have a few suggestions for you. I teamed up with Peyton & Peppy Boutique to illustrate some great looks for when you’re taking on a big feast and partaking in Black Friday and Small Business Saturday. Stick with me if you want to be ready to grab a drink with friends at The Blennerhassett Hotel after your shopping adventures!

Tip #1: Ditch the coat and wear a sweater or a toboggan. No one likes carrying a big coat around with them while they shop so feel free to skip it.  Choose a poncho or a vest as a layering piece that provides warmth but isn’t as cumbersome.

These two layering pieces are the perfect look for those that want to look cute while shopping for your friends and family. They also work perfectly for your Thanksgiving attire as well.

Tip #2: If you’re unsure on whether or not you should dress-up for dinner, go with a casual look with an edge. That could mean wearing a dressier top layered underneath a sweater.  I love these two looks for that specific reason. 

For instance, this sequin detail layered under a peek-a-boo shoulder lends the perfect touch for not being overly casual or too dressy. The faux leather leggings also kick it up a notch and are absolutely comfortable. Bonus?  They have great stretch for all of the food you’re about to intake!

I also love an animal print piece which in this case is a reptile print and it’s very on-trend this season. Don’t be afraid to wear pastels in the wintertime.  It looks perfect with the black denim and popcorn open sweater. Also, say it with me…”I can wear ankle jeans.” Yes! They are an actual trend for those of you that may have been wondering. Embrace it!

These two looks are the perfect transition looks to head out-on-the-town after Thanksgiving dinner.

When you shop at Peyton & Peppy you’ll find great sweaters, lovely accessories, shoes, bath and body, candles, little girl clothing along with a plus-size section. All of these featured looks and accessories can be found at this adorable boutique. Don’t forget to shop with them on Black Friday or Small Business Saturday!

Author and Fashion Stylist: Courtney Smith of Ran.dom.o.si.ty 7.4.0

Photographer: Kelsey Preston

Models: Molly Vincent (left) and Amayah Lauer (right)

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Your Local, Fall Fashion Look Book

Once November hits, holiday shopping is in full swing. Many times, people look towards the mall for gift-giving or holiday attire shopping. My favorite thing as a local fashion stylist is to share the many findings from the boutiques on Front Street in Marietta, Ohio. I want to encourage all of you to shop small this season and take a look at all of the special pieces you can find here locally!

Snakeskin and Fur

Snakeskin, fur and gray are the triple threat this season.  These trends can make an impact in small ways. 

• Model: Megan Reece
• Necklace and Earrings: Wit & Whimzy
• Navy Top: Schafer Leather
• Jeans: Sugar Maple Boutique
• Vest: Teri Ann’s

For instance, this gray vest with fur pockets pairs wonderfully with the snakeskin boots and navy flutter sleeve top. The geode pendant necklace ties everything together along with the metallic teardrop earrings. 

• Model: Lauren Hendricks
• Top and Leggings: Teri Ann’s
• Jacket: Threadz
• Earrings: Wit & Whimzy

This look could be deconstructed to be either dressy or casual simply by switching out the accessories. Athleisure is a huge trend and here is the perfect example of how to create a more upscale feel. With this lightweight jacket, it creates a sophisticated and polished, layered look. The snakeskin print hoodie also creates a dressier vibe compared to most sweatshirts because it has a print and the fabric is less casual. Pairing it with leggings that have leather accents creates a more edgy feel especially with the metallic print in the earrings. Take away those accessories? There’s your casual look.

Leather and Camo

When people wear camo or leather in the MOV some may reference these looks as western or something only hunters wear.  However, these two trends are hot in the fashion scene.

• Model: Megan Reece
• Jacket: Teri Ann’s
• Dress and Belt: EmLeigh’s and Mama B’s
• Gloves: Schafer Leather
• Earrings: Wit & Whimzy

This reversible jacket features a metallic camo print paired with a snakeskin belt and a gold mini-print dress. The leather gloves are the perfect match to mix-it-up and tie in the look.

• Model: Lauren Hendricks
• Cape: Teri Ann’s
• Gloves and Top: Schafrer Leather
• Earrings: Wit & Whimzy
• Leggings: Teri Ann’s

The black leather gloves with the studded accents create an on-trend look.  The burgundy top brings a rich tone to the outfit while the metallic details in the earrings complete a delightful holiday vibe.

Leopard and Plaid

My two favorite prints to combine in the fall and winter are leopard and plaid.  These are the perfect pairing and a great start to mixing patterns. 

• Model: Megan Reece
• Leopard Top: EmLeigh’s & Mama B’s
• Plaid Top: Threadz
• Earrings and Handbag: Wit & Whimzy
• Jeans: Sugar Maple Boutique

Leopard print is often paired with the color red which makes plaid a great way to ease into the idea of mixing patterns. When you pair it with black jeans it creates a dramatic effect. The best way to tie in the colors is the black and brown bag and gold accents in the earrings.

• Model: Lauren Hendricks
• Leopard Hat: Schafer Leather
• Top: Threadz
• Scarf and cardigan: Dad’s Primitive Workbench
• Earrings: Wit & Whimzy
• Jeans: Sugar Maple Boutique

Layering a chunky sweater over a plaid top is a classic, casual style. Pairing it with a plaid scarf helps incorporate more pattern and color as well as these textured earrings.

Do you know what the best thing about all of these looks is? They are all found in downtown Marietta at the local boutiques. So make sure and spend some time shopping local this season and always!

Stylist and Author: Courtney Smith of Ran.dom.o.si.ty 7.4.0

Make-up Artist: Abigail Gedon of PWDR Beaute’

Photographer: Lindsay Husk of Lindsay Husk Photography

The post Fall Fashion Look Book appeared first on Clutch MOV.

Fall is my favorite time of the year in the fashion realm. Why you ask?  Because of all the different layering techniques that can be done, of course!  This is the time to play with your wardrobe and have fun. For this feature, I was able to partner with Emma from EmLeigh’s & Mama B’s with some of her new fall products to illustrate some styling tips. You’ll also notice the beautiful artistry of local make-up artist, Abigail Gedon of PWDR Beaute’ when it comes to pairing the perfect colors for this look.

If you follow me on social media you already know that I think every gal should own a little animal print in her closet. It just adds an impact with little effort. Leopard print specifically works well as a neutral base. Don’t be afraid to play with different neutral tones because they can work really well together. Think of how picturesque the desert can be. Why is that?  Well, if you really think about it all of the neutral tones are typically represented which makes it appealing to the eye. I always recommend searching color palettes in Pinterest or Google images to inspire you for color pairings. Specifically, I am showing you two landscapes as my inspiration.

When you look at this outfit pairing you can see a representation of both brown and gray. This specific gray works with brown because it has a warm undertone. I pointed this out because when it comes to neutral pairings it is important to find the right shades to complement the look and other colors being represented.

Many times animal print can intimidate or overwhelm people. With that being said, when I mention adding in another print with it people look at me like I have three heads. I know! It sounds like it would be a lot but I am going to break it down for you in two simple steps.

Step 1: Layer from underneath. A lot of people will use the phrase “it’s black and white” when they are trying to explain something that should be simple and to the point. Think of two neutral stripe colors in the same context. In this case, I am being very “gray and white.” Stripes can go with just about anything when it is the right colors paired together. 

Step 2: Add more warm tones to the look to create balance and tie in the gray with the browns. This open sweater does just that! It completes the look and makes it cohesive by bringing in all the different colors.

Fashion can be fun to play with especially when it comes to your own style.  It can be scary to go a little bolder than we are used to, but it can be a LOT of fun. Make sure and stop by EmLeigh’s and Mama B’s on Front Street in Marietta to shop some funky, on-trend fashions!

Model: Boutique Owner: Emma Conley www.emleighandmamabs.com | @emleighsandmamabs

Make-up Artist: Abigail Gedon of PWDR Beaute’ www.pwdrbeaute.com | @pwdrbeaute

Stylist and Author: Courtney Smith of Ran.dom.o.si.ty 7.4.0 www.randomosity740.com | @randomosity740

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As a fashion stylist, I hear this statement just about every day: “There are no plus size stores around here for me to find cute clothes.” I have great news!  There are actually quite a few local boutiques that offer a variety of plus size clothing. For this article, I’m featuring fashions from Dad’s Primitive Workbench. I had the pleasure of styling local make-up artist, Brittany Collins in some of my personal favorites.

This first look I adore because polka dots are a classic print that every gal should own in her closet. This top is very on-trend because of the front tie as well. And who doesn’t love a good pair of denim?

Next is a fun bohemian top with a beautiful bell sleeve. I love the beautiful trim because it adds just enough detail to make the top extra special. Plus with the elastic band around the neckline, it can be worn off-the-shoulder too.  If you have a floppy hat to pair with it that can really help transform the look along with a black maxi skirt if you want another idea of how to rock this top.

Lastly, my favorite look. I’m a sucker for an edgy look and this camouflaged top with distressed jeans always gives that appearance. I paired it with this nude heel to be less predictable along with this amazing long black jacket that is perfect for fall. Talk about feeling like a runway model when flaunting this jacket!

If you like some of the plus size clothing you see in this article they can all be found at Dad’s Primitive Workbench in Marietta, Ohio. And if you mention promo code: RANDOMOSITY15 Charlie will give you 15% off on the boutique items which are already part of the BOGO 50% off sale he always offers.

If you’re looking for other local options, check out Peyton & Peppy Boutique in Vienna, WV as well as Sugar Maple Boutique in both Marietta, Ohio and Vienna, WV. Happy shopping!

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Spring is in the air which means summer is right around the corner. When you stop by the local shops in the MOV you’re going to come across a few of my favorite trends right now. I love dresses and my favorite styles are the wrap and baby-doll dresses because they’re typically a flattering look for most body types. If your tummy is a trouble area these two styles lend a more flattering look because they don’t hug around the waistline. I also love a good romper and beautiful accessories. Check out Dad’s Primitive Workbench and Emleigh’s and Mama B’s for the styles below.

The first two dresses are from Dad’s Primitive Workbench. This dress has beautiful embroidery detail. The bold colors are so vibrant against the black fabric. This would look great with a simple flat sandal to make it more casual or it can be dressed up as I have it here with a colorful heel. The fringe earring trend is sticking around and the gold against the black creates an elegant look when paired with this dress. When fall comes around I’ll pair this dress with a pair of denim to wear more like a tunic.

The fuchsia dress shows a beautiful sleeve and the color is to die for.  I paired the same color shoes with it to show a monochromatic look. The earrings are a blush color to stay within the same color family. 

The next two looks are from Emleigh’s & Mama B’s. This wrap dolman sleeve dress is such an easy piece to wear. The silhouette is a flattering fit since it hits the smallest part of the waistline. Another big trend is a clear vinyl bag. This neutral snakeskin print detail brings a fun vibe to the bag. I paired a simple necklace with a fun statement earring with pastel spring colors also found at this shop.

This romper has me dreaming of the beach especially when it’s paired with this beautiful jute tote bag with the tassel detail. How fun that it matches the tassel detail on the romper! The shell earrings really help complete this beach style and I added a bit of color with this turquoise bead choker.  Okay, who is ready to go to the beach with me now?

There are many more local places to find some of these spring/summer trends such as:

• Peyton & Peppy Boutique
• Threadz
• Teri Ann’s
• Sugar Maple Boutique

Make sure and check out all of these shops for all of your fashion needs and wants. 

Shoot Location: Hot Tomato Studio

Model/Photographer: Courtney Smith

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Attention babes and big shots!

If you’re headed to the Peoples Bank Theatre’s Speakeasy Party on February 2, word on the street is that you might be curious as to what you should wear.

My personal rule for a themed party is to have fun with your outfit and don’t overthink it. I’m going to share some awesome fashion photos from a previous Sparkly Ladies Night party theme because all of the ladies did an awesome job with their looks.

For all the doll-faces out there, you might go with a flapper-style dress with some fringe and a corresponding headpiece. If you do, don’t forget to layer on the long pearls. When I think of this era I think of Art Deco and The Great Gatsby. 

Another great accessory, especially for this time of year is a mink or faux-mink to wear. It creates great texture and supplies ultimate warmth for the cold that lies ahead.

Now for the men, I highly recommend a fedora, vest, bow tie and suspenders for the key elements of your look. It’s always helpful if you have a pin-striped suit too. Tap into your inner Al Capone. 

Shown above and below are a couple male outfit inspirations from a recent shoot for the Peoples Bank Theater:

So for those of you that have been unsure as to what you should wear, this should give you a good starting point! Be bold or be minimal – just have a good time with it.

Female Images: from a previous Sparkly Ladies Night 
Men’s Stylist and Cover Photo Stylist: Kitri Held
Cover models: Elliot Dodd, Torrey Archer, Abigail Gedon and Drew Tanner
Male models: Drew Tanner and Elliot Dodd
Photographer: Andi Roberts of Hot Tomato Pin-up Academy

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