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Danica Joy
Tashica Design Artist

Tashica Fashion Update

I saw more out-of-season white than you'd believe. Boots, pants, sleeveless ensembles in sub-degree weather… We are more than ready to pack up the cuddly turtle-necks and dust off the tank tops for one more season of fresh, blossoming spring.

The Lite Brite Lariat
Speaking of spring, this new design is just the thing to get you in the mood. Brighten your day with a happy Lite Brite lariat in your favourite colour. With choices like Lipstick and Sour Apple, how can you resist?

Czech facetted crystals and glass beads are knotted in place over sheer organza ribbon in outrageous colour combos!

The Swarovski Rose Choker
Romance, glamour and intrigue. Everything a woman desires stuffed into one audacious choker.

Black tie or blind date. Anytime you want to make a grand entrance is the perfect time for the Swarovski Rose Choker.

Metallic-lined glass cubes with a stunning black rose made from the highest grade of Swarovski Crystal. Choose from either silver or gold.

The Teardrop Choker
Sometimes the most beautiful things come in the simplest of packages. Such is true for the Teardrop Choker!

It will cradle your neck with passionate colour that is perfect for any of life's occasions. Incredible as a bridal choker, or to match the bridal party.

Full of colour and light, this choker is just in time for spring! Choose from Capri, Crystaline, Garnet, Peridot, Topaz, Jet or Amethyst, all in the highest grade of Swarovski Teardrop Crystals.

Feeling Good About Yourself
It's an ever waging battle, and just when I think I've got it under control, it rears it's ugly head once again. Self-image. Learning to love, learning to like, who you are, just as you are. It's no easy feat, but it's worth every bead of sweat.

Think about it. You spend more time with yourself than any other person. And, in fact, you will continue to spend every waking minute with yourself until death do you part, whether you like it or not. Doesn't it make sense to learn to enjoy your own company?

Many teachers and counselors on this subject stand by the notion that the number one need for women is to be accepted and appreciated as unique individuals. We all want the same thing. To be loved and accepted for who we are. And do you know who holds the most significant vote on the subject? You do. What you think about yourself means more to you than any other person's opinion. People who truly accept and appreciate themselves are the happiest, most peaceful people on earth.

This issue is not one that I am addressing from the other side, having conquered all self-doubt. I'm speaking more from a sympathetic place, knowing the struggle well. I have learned keys along the way that have encouraged me in my quest, and I'm hoping that sharing them with you might also share the encouragement.

Think About What You Are Thinking About
How often do we actually stop to take account of our thoughts? What do you really think about yourself, when no one but you is listening? Do you consent outwardly to being a good person, fairly attractive even and somewhat funny, while in the privacy of your own mind you tell yourself that you're no good at anything, you're unattractive and frumpy, and he'll eventually leave you for someone better?

It won't do you any good to try doing something new to boost your self-esteem until you begin thinking something new. It's not all that abstract, it's actually really simple. Just begin to listen to your inner thoughts. And when you find a thought you think often, write it down. Make a list, and then go through it to find which thoughts are destructive and degrading. Don't contemplate the validity of the thought; that's not the point. What you believe about yourself determines how you act. So, change the belief and you'll no longer act in a way that proves its validity.

Next, find new thoughts for the old thoughts. Beside the old thought, write down a good, healthy alternative. When you find yourself thinking the old thought, stop! Stop, and make a conscious effort to think the new thought about yourself. Repeat as many times as is necessary to make the new thoughts habitual. You'll never be the same again!

Pamper Yourself
For me, this one is the charm. When I'm feeling a bit down like we all do at times, I find it works miracles to take a few minutes to do something special for myself. Not an unhealthy distraction like chocolate or too much partying, but a genuine moment of care that I give to myself like a little gift.

Feeling a little frumpy? I run a tub of bubbles and then I take the time to do my nails. Feeling not so glamorous? I slap on a mud mask or colour my hair. It's not a miracle in and of itself, but it does present me with the opportunity to spend a quiet few minutes working on changing my self-perception. That means that as you're slapping on the mud mask you can't be hissing at your complexion in the process. Think of being gentle, calm, and simply nice to yourself. If you have to, steer clear of the mirror for awhile. Feeling good inside does wonders for looking good outside. Most of the time I find in the end that my frustrations really seldom are skin deep, anyway. It's just an easy thing to nag at. And when I take the time to fix my thoughts and my attitude, I begin to realize there was really nothing in the mirror to complain about in the first place. (Nothing new, anyway!)

Karleen wrote,
"I've just gone on a major shopping spree, and now I'm looking for some accessories to finish it off. I'm wondering, is there a right kind of necklace for your body type?"

That's a great question, Karleen. There is a right and a not-so-right accessory style to accompany every body type.

Lariats
Great for elongating. Works well on shorter people, it draws the eye up and down. Consider the Crystal Lariat or the Chain Lariat.

Round Necklaces
If you have a larger neckline, or if you have a fuller figure, look for rounder necklaces that sit a little lower. Aim to have it resting on your collarbone. This will broaden the scope of the necklace and in turn, flatter your body in contrast. Take a look at the Watercolour Necklace.

Chokers
There are so many types of chokers, and I believe there is one to flatter every figure. Chokers that are solid and thick, like the new Swarovski Rose Choker, are great for people with petite necks. For broader necklines, look for chokers that dangle, like the London Bridges Choker or the Studded Leather Choker. The dangles draw the eye up and down, again, and this works magic in art of flattery.

Wraps
Very versatile because you can adjust the wrap to suit your own body type. Wrap it up tight and it works like a choker, and loosen it a bit to flatter like a round necklace. The Lace Wrap is the perfect suggestion.

Don't forget that in the end, you have to wear what you love, and that carries almost as much clout as the body-type guidelines. If you really love a certain look your smile and confidence will be enough to pull it off!

Well, Tashica Girls, that's it for now. I hope March is a fabulous month, and I'll see you in April!

Fashionably Yours,

Danica Joy
Tashica Design Artist