Fabulous in Rochester

from Mann's Jewelers Accent Magazine Spring/Summer 2023

by Mann's Jewelers

Illumannations

ROCHESTER NATIVE, STYLE

GURU & CRYSTAL QUEEN

COURTNEY WINSLOW TALKS SPRING/SUMMER TRENDS

PHOTOS BY ALI REED

HAIR BY SOOZ SALON

JEWELRY BY MANN’S JEWELERS

Well, I started out old-school with this article. I forgot my computer when I went on vacation and decided that my journal was as good of a place as any to start spilling my guts to you guys, LOL. My journal is my most authentic voice, a raw and unedited version of myself. Aren’t you guys lucky?! I reflected back on my first article for Mann’s. Composition notebook, two babies in the background crying and laughing (that’s the thing with lil ones they can actually do that at the same time-kinda jealous). The first photo was taken in my old closet by my sister (because I had to kick out my mom for being too bossy). No professional makeup, no cool hairstyles… and both kids on my lap. THAT was talent, man. That’s the everyday stuff that makes mothers the Boss of Life.

Those were the days; I saved real-life PRINTED magazines for months gathering trend reports and scouring US Weekly and People for “street trend” photos by Tommy Ton and Bill Cunningham (no relation, unfortunately). Scrapbooks made with cutouts of the best, most extreme style I found. Some would say, that it couldn’t be recreated for the everyday dress…but not me. I’d find a way. Even with littles in tow, I would wear the damn sequins, or pair the long gown with a striped tee, layering it with gorgeous gems as I walked out the door, usually with food stuck to the back of me. No worries. I didn’t care, confidence was boosted before I even noticed.

Fashion, like journaling, has been a meditative process for me. Letting my thoughts flow, it’s my creative escape. Never any judgment, I’m not worried about what I might write next, or what funny outfit I might walk out with. Journaling would allow me to eliminate all the “crazy” from my mind, to clear the space. When left alone with my wardrobe I am left to create. Mix and match, pull out old pieces, and make them new again, transforming them into the next trend on the pages of Vogue. Without anyone saying, “Where are you going looking like that?!”

So, I’m going to brain-dump some Spring/Summer 2023 trends on you. Yep. That’s my gig. But remember don’t forget to give yourself space to create. Please let yourself enjoy the process. This isn’t school or work, this is life. A life that was gifted to enjoy; to inspire you in a million different ways and help you evolve. So be your best damn self. Bring it. Be confident in whatever makes you smile the biggest. And then tell everyone else that they can either join the fun or get the heck out of your way.

White On White On White

I could NOT get enough of this long silk backless gown that I found on sale. Say Whattt?? Who didn’t want this? I want to talk to them. I like love-love white dresses. And so, since I’m the boss of myself… I will wear them all the time…whenever I damn, please. I love being able to layer them, endlessly. The dress on its own? Sexy. Layered with a blazer? Check, you are dinner ready. Dumbed down with flip-flops and a cardigan? You, my darling, can head straight to the Lake.

Oversized Blazers

Think Basic Instinct meets Working Girl. This jacket can be perfectly paired over lingerie-inspired gowns, effortlessly draped over your shoulders. Also looks amazing with matching pants, consider your menswear up-styled. I always feel like a badass in this look. Sometimes it’s best to dress the part and then expect the results and confidence to follow. Wear over long strands of diamond necklaces and gold chains. Medallions, charms, and mementos. I love making this style feminine by pairing it with mary jane shoes, lots of sparkle, and a fabulous structured lady bag.

60’S STYLE

Dresses adorned with bright colors. Mushrooms, lips, and daisies are embroidered and printed on maxi dresses and short shifts. Shiny round paillette party dresses are swaying. Move over sequins, The Supremes have something better in mind. Bolder and more modern, a sparkly micro mini can be paired with a tee shirt for a fun night out. The chain mail trend is back for the ’60s revival, Paco Rabanne has the same beautifully made pieces back in stores, ready to jingle with your wide-leg denim and a hand full of rings. Meanwhile, mama’s festival beads got an upgrade; now they are replaced by chunky bangles, enamel beads, and multi-sapphire strands. When heading to the shore for vacation don’t forget to pick up a graphic print to take your kaftan (aka beach cover-up) up a notch.

Leather

Summer Leather? Yes. That’s correct. Hey, guys, I don’t make the rules and honestly, Rochester Spring could very much have a White Christmas vibe. SO let’s just roll with it, ok? Not just a leather jacket but skirts, dresses, and blazers are coming at ya. Thinking less Kim Kardashian and more of a ’90s remake of Beverly Hills, 90210. Leather trench with soft layers underneath. Concert season on a cool evening means fitted leather pants, band tee, and heavy metal jewelry.

Relaxed Denim

Toss the skinny. The big mama jean is moving in. The comfy, yet chic denim trend is going strong for Spring. Pair a wide-leg high-waisted jean with ankle boots, a long trench coat, and a simple (i don’t use that word often when describing trends) striped button-down. Strong and bold gold hoop earrings and stackable rings polish this look off. Good enough for a Friday meeting or a day out with friends. I wish you both. All on the same day.

you experience.

want

OK to end this little life hack of fashion favs. I’m going to also give you a rundown of all the extras that came up on my trend searches… Cargo—fabulous, there are not enough pockets in this lifetime for all the crap I insist on carrying around. Lime Green—margarita with extra lime, please. Mermaid magic—pastels in sequins, I guess this means you could just hit up Disneyland instead of Bergdorf’s? Sculptural statement earrings—yes please, stop by Mann’s on our way to the MAG for a cultural experience. Sheer layering—does this mean that you can see my Skims? Red Shoes—Toto, I don’t think we are in Kansas anymore. That all being said, I’m down for whatever makes your heart sing and your booty shake. I’m going to be your own personal fashion cheerleader. I want to see you smiling and laughing and beaming with confidence. That’s, what’s gonna make you shine the brightest, babe.