Art, Fashion, & Fun

Finding the right combinations of clothes to wear can be daunting. But you maybe able to create the color combinations that you want by looking at master painters – especially the Impressionist painters whose focus was on light and color. The master painters knew color and the other elements of design by heart because they practiced observing and painting with them daily.

For example, if you’re looking to create a spring/summer wardrobe or add to the collection of clothing that you presently have, then Google impressionist

artists. Look at some paintings and find the ones to which you are attracted. Google the artist and you will find plenty of examples or go to the MetropolitanMuseum of Art and search for your favorite artist.

Then study the colors. For example Monet’s The Poppy Field has various shades of tan, green, blue, and a splashes of red. Think about putting colors like those together – maybe tan pants or skirt, a light blue tank top, a green blouse, and some jewelry. A hand bag, scarf, and shoes are also important parts of any outfit. Color considerations are shades, tints, prints, and plaids. Some other elements of design to consider when thinking about a wardrobe are line, shape (think hour-glass as opposed to box), texture, space, and form. It’s a lot to ponder.

Take some time to look before you buy. Like any art form, creating a wardrobe takes study, time, and a budget. Above all else, consider your comfort, because only when you are comfortable will you have the most fun.

Shopping is tiring. Give yourself time to relax and think – or not think – before making any buying decisions. Lay or sit down with a Maine Warmer and let the warmth bring soothing comfort and help clear your mind. Maine Warmers Comforting Creatures last a long time and never go out of style.

Put a little Spring into your wardrobe

Nature provides a pallet of colors that can help us choose garments that go together. Spring shows us how well bright Hyacinth pinks and Forsythia yellows go together. Soft lavenders and greens complement each other, and a light pink crab apple blossom looks great with a brown trunk. Take a walk in the spring time, outside through some gardens or in neighborhoods where there are lots of blooming shrubs and trees.

Then go walking through the clothing store, catalogs, or look online keeping in mind these colors of spring. Mix and match or find a print or plaid with the colors that imitate nature. Accessorize with inexpensive hand bags and jewelry or other accessories that can make an outfit fun. And don’t forget comfortable shoes that allow you to keep a twinkle in your eye and smile on your face which is the most attractive piece of your ensemble.

Maine Warmers provides foot warmers to help your tired aching feet and help you feel better.

Singing "Big Foot Blues" looking for shoes

I feel a little like Cinderella’s sister when I try to find on shoes that fit well and don’t look like skis. I look at all of those dainty little shoes for women and think none of them will fit me, so for the most part, I have stopped looking. I know of only one local shoe store that carries my size, and even their suppliers have cut back on providing long, narrow styles.

But, I recently came across the TOG SHOP catalog that carries 11 narrow sandals in nice looking styles. The two brand names are Soft Spots and Propét.  They are a bit pricey, but a better shoe will last longer, feel and age better, and if they are a basic color, will go with a variety of clothes. Check out these stylish, sexy sandals -- whether you have large feet or small -- without the heels, to help you manage your spring wardrobe.

Shoes can make or break an outfit, but in making a fashion statement we don’t want to break a leg wearing spiky heels.  Protecting one’s feet from the devastating, long-term effects of high heels is paramount in my mind. Women want to have fun and look good in the process.

If your feet are tired and sore after being on them all day even in flats, heat up a simple Back Warmer from Maine Warmers and place your feet on top of it. It’s an inexpensive, easy way to relax and soothe those achy feet and a fun way to feel better.