Feel Fresh Fridays: Crochet

This is clearly one of those trends that withstands the test of time...nothing says summertime chic like crochet - and it is so simple to wear.  Although it feels heavier, the semi-sheer fabric allows for the cool breeze to float through to your skin while keeping you covered up at the same time.

Try a crocheted pullover with shorts for an effortlessly sexy look.

Shirt - Medium    Shorts - J.Crew Sz. 2    Shoes - FRYE Sz. 7.5

A crocheted poncho can make plain outfit feel fresh every time.

Poncho - One Size Tank - PINK Sz. Medium  Shorts - Unionbay Sz. 7 Shoes - UGGS Sz. 10

 Pair a crocheted tank with capris for a universally flattering look.

Tank - American Eagle Sz. Medium   Capris - J.Crew Sz. 00   Wedges - Sugar Sz. 7.5

How to keep those kids busy...

Are you looking for something fun to do with your children this weekend??

We are hosting an Alex's Lemonade Stand here at Growing Kids Friday 9-6 and Saturday 10-5 so stop on by to help raise awareness for childhood cancer!

There are still a few volunteer times available, so if your child is interested in volunteering make sure you call (973) 616-1917 or email info@growingkidsNJ.com to reserve your spot.  Don;t forget you receive 20% OFF for the day if your child volunteers :)

Please click here for more information!!

Tuesday's Trendy Tips: 5 Ways to Wear a Maxi Dress

If you're anything like me, you love to shop...but you're on a budget. Each week I go still go shopping, but instead I focus on finding one or two staples instead of maxing out my credit card on a new wardrobe.  Renewal is here to help you make those staple pieces feel fresh every time.

As maxi dresses were popular on the runway and are too comfortable not to wear every hot summer day, we'll focus on how to revamp your dress with a few key items.

                                                           Maxidress: 36.5, sz.Med.

                                                             Knit vest: Takeout, sz. XS
                                           

                                                         Tank top: American Rag, sz. XS

                                                      Shirt: New York & Co., sz. Small

 Button-down: Michael Kors, sz.Small

Crop top: Lux, sz. Med

Feel Fresh Fridays: Neon

       As always, Renewal wants to help you take the runways hottest trends to the streets. This week we're focusing on neon. Channeling iconic fashion names such as Peter Som, Jason Wu, Nanette Lepore, and Rag & Bone amongst others, Renewal has collected the seasons hottest neon pieces to help you integrate this trend into your wardrobe. The great thing about this trend is that it can be adapted in a way that reflects your personal style. If you're a woman that enjoys standing out in a crowd, neon on neon is definitely the way to go. Try pairing bright pinks and oranges together for the color blocking effect.  For those of you that prefer a style that's not quite as loud, you can add neon accessories to neutral summer staples. Here are a few of Renewal's pieces to add to your closet.

T-shirt: Splendid, sz. L;   Jacket: Vera Wang, sz. Small;  Jeans: Hydraullic, sz. 10   Shoes: Steve Madden, sz. 10   Clutch: Tommy Hilfiger

T-Shirt: J.Crew, sz. L;   Cardigan: Ella Moss, sz. L;  Jeans: Mandees, sz. 0;  Shoes: Steve Madden, sz. 7.5 Bag: Long Champ

T-Shirt: Nollie, sz. XS;  Skirt: American Apparel, sz. XS    Flip-flops: F21, sz. 6

Wallets & Clutches:  Urban Outfitters, Kristine Accessories, Lauren Merkin

Tuesday's Trendy Tip: Pants to flatter my rear end

The never ending question...how do I make my butt look smaller? 

Pants that have a lower rise tend to create the appearance of a smaller rear end, be careful not to go too low...because that's not attractive on anyone!  Also opt for bottoms with a smaller plain pocket so you aren't drawing any added attention.

A wide waistband will help visually cut the posterior and give the illusion of a smaller backside.

If you are looking to minimize the maximus make sure the pants are a straight leg or a boot cut.  This will assure that you don't look too top-heavy in skinny jeans.

Feel Fresh Fridays: Casual Cookouts

        April and May have flown by, and we're finally at the unofficial kick-off to summer: Memorial Day Weekend. This is the weekend where pools open, grills are cleaned off, and family and friends gather together to celebrate.  MDW is the ultimate cookout, and with plenty of barbeques to attend, you'll want to stay cool and casual but feel fresh.  Here's some of Renewal's red, white, and blue to help you show your patriotism this weekend.

 Tank: Cooperative, sz. Med;   Shorts: London Jean, sz. 0;   Sneakers: Converse, sz. 10

Shirt: Charolette Russe, sz. XS;Shorts: American Eagle, sz. 10; Wedges: White House Black Market, sz. 9.5

Dress: Vintage, Excellent, sz. Med.; Sandals: Fioni, sz. 9.5

Feel Fresh Fridays: White Hot Summer

        Aside from bright neon yellows and oranges, white proved to be one of the most popular colors on the spring/summer 2012 runway. This is by far one of the easiest trends to pull off.  White is incredibly versatile and is easy to dress up or down.  It can provide you with many different looks depending on the fabric and styling, and pairs well with absolutely everything.  Here are some of Renewal's white bottoms to get you ready for the summer.

 Crop-top: Alternative, sz. Small; Bermuda Shorts: Rewind, sz. 5; Sandals: Rockport, sz. 6.5

Tank-top: Ana, sz. Large; Jeans: Ralph Lauren, sz. 6; Heels: Aldo, sz. 5

Shirt: B.C.B.G, sz. Med.; Shorts: Bongo, sz. 5; Wedges: Chie Mihara, sz. 7.5

Tank-top: Tahari, sz. Small; Capri's: Trina Turk, sz. 4; Heels: Charles David, sz.8