120 N. Salem Street Apex, NC

www.flauntbtq.com

This is the first edi-tion of

FLAUNT Maga-zine Newsletter and we are so excited to bring to you tools, resources, information and encouragement to be, look and live at your best! We are here to sup-port you and cheer you on as you Become the person that you want to be. I believe that the way you feel about yourself on the inside has a direct connection to the way others perceive and respond to you. I want everyone to know what a bright and shinny star you really are! Its all bout cultivating beauty from within!

I am so excited about what FLAUNT has in store for you this coming year and you should be too! The fashion trends coming this spring are more fun and exciting, colorful and creative than I’ve seen in a long time. Providing you so much diversity in the way you express yourself.

The partnerships that FLAUNT has formed with Makeup Artists, Hair Stylist, Nutritionists, Au-thors, and other creative and motivating people will provide you with all the tools you need to Look Right & Live Right, so Lets Go!

Be Fabulous!

Jessica Lamarre

40 days to Fabulous

Are you reAdy to recreAte yourself?LOVE: Are you in a new relationship, experiencing a divorced, or lost someone you adore?

WORK: Maybe you just started a new job, lost a job, feeling stuck in your career or are still trying to figure out what you want to be when yougrow up!

BIRTH: Maybe you’re a mom who traded in your high heels and a job title for sneakers and mom jeans (boooo!)—now you want more!

YOU ARE NOT ALONE!The roles we play and hats we wear change constantly, but we shouldn’tlose sight of the hat rack. Underneath all of those hats, lives an elegant, strong and beautiful structure that should be honored, recognized and celebrated! Be courageous & embark on a new life journey!

Embark on this journey:In 40 Days to Fabulous you will recreate the way you see yourself, theway you present yourself to others,and the way others see & respond toyou—thus transforming your life.This structured program is customdesigned for you! It’s about yourgoals, your desires, your life!Welcome to a fabulous new you!

Why 40 days?It’s well known and widely acceptedthat it takes 21 days to create a habit.However, in 40 days you cantransform your life!

• 6 Group Coaching Classes• Daily Affirmations,• Weekly & Daily StyleChallenges• Learn:• Vision-Board Creation• Self Affirmations• Goal Setting

• Closet Purge &Fab-Wardrobe InfusionGuest Coaching:• Fitness & Nutrition Planning• Make-Up Tips & Tricks• Hair Revitalization

What you get:

“SweatpantS are a Sign of defeat. You loSt control of Your life So You bought Some SweatpantS.” -Karl lagerfeld

I came across this quote a couple months ago, and as funny as it may seem, it got some wheels turning in my head. I’ve become quite the people watcher, and according to this quote, it would seem that a lot of us have lost control of our lives. Now, before I go on and express my beliefs, I want to make it clear that I am NOT against sweatpants. On the contrary, I think they are very comfortable and what else would I wear when I’m running in 30 degree weather? But to me, Karl’s statement goes so much deeper than the fabric I place over my skin. During my people watching endeavors, I’ve noticed that more and more women tend to wear their gym clothes when they are far from the gym and I’ve asked myself why (besides the comfort factor, of course). Then a light bulb went off over my sparkly bow-accessorized head.

We’ve lost sight.

We, WOMEN, have lost sight of the fact that we’re allowed to make a statement. That we’re allowed to express ourselves with the clothes we put on our bodies and most of all, that we’re allowed to be fabulous. I guess to some, it would seem that a bigger impact is made through our actions and verbiage. Though that may be true, we can’t sit here and say that people don’t form their opinions of us as soon as we walk into a room. They do. So why not show them what we’re made of without saying a word or doing a thing? Does this still not convince you?

Okay, let’s forget about people and just focus on YOU. I’ve heard it said that when you feel beautiful, you look beautiful. Well if this is true, how much more beautiful would you feel if what’s on the outside directly reflected what’s on the inside?

Now, I’m not telling you all to go buy fashion magazines and study the latest trends. I want you to sit down and think about who you are and how you can outwardly express that without words or actions. It’s okay to worry about your wardrobe and appearance! It doesn’t mean you’re any less smart, funny, or down-to-earth than your co-worker. It means you know who you are and are comfortable enough expressing that without explanation. (And you don’t mind people thinking you are gorgeous *wink*)

Of course, it’s okay to wear your sweatpants (to the gym). Just remember that you are fabulous enough to own your personality and show it the world. Watch the “The Devil Wears Prada” this week and learn what Anne Hathaway’s character learns: you can be fabulous while still being you.

Who knows, maybe next time you’ll ditch the gym clothes and buy a funky purse instead. -Gwendolyn Mejia

Want to look stylish and stay warm at the same time? Bright colored skinny jeans are in this season! Pair it with with a chunky neutral sweater, a jacket or blazer, or a simple tee… they’re the perfect go-to spring look. And if you’re daring enough, mix and match bright colors in your whole outfit. Color blocking is also very trendy this spring.

Colored denim was first witnessed on the Fall 2011 runway shoes but it got everyone hooked. From rock n’ rock girls to preppy to the fashion forward girls, people are buying and wearing them everyday. They range from red to pink to yellow to aqua to orange! They are going beyond basic blue. What color will you rock this season?

For inspirations on how to wear bright colored jeans, visit: http://www.organicjeansblog.com/the-skinny-on-colored-jeans

“I’d Rather Let My Flame Shine Bright, than be some tiny little Pilot light!!!”

Words everyone should live by. No matter what styles you wear or the attitude you put on make sure it’s always fierce and compliments the wonderful person you are. It’s always a must to not only allow people to have confidence in you, but most importantly you have to have it in yourself. So many times it seems as though we rely on what others tell us that we eventually begin to believe that it must be true. I’m here to tell you that like many things it’s not.

As comfort we sometimes only explore the inner limits of the box we as people place on ourselves, but I ask you is that what we really want? In terms of the flame that you are, nothing can stop you from burning; instead take a breath of fresh air and expand your horizons. Try something new, something wild and fun within your personal wardrobe to your personal life.

If it is YOU, It is IMPORTANT!!

As we prepare ourselves each morning to walk out into the big tall world where we have some of our most insecure moments I say push it aside and let the FLAME ignite within you. Be your own best friend and allow yourself to be who you wish to be. Here at Flaunt our job is to allow everyone to express themselves freely without judgment or unnecessary criticisms from the PEANUT GALLERY. I challenge you as a representative of Flaunt and a Fellow Fashion Diva to explore all options of life from your attitude to the way you dress and allow it to burn, burn as bright and hot as the FLAME you wish to be and allow others to see.

SPRING 2012 FASHION TRENDS: UPDATE YOUR WARDROBE AND LOOK FABULOUS IN THESE NEW TRENDS! Spring is almost here so let’s talk about some of the trends that we’re looking forward to flaunt in March. Color blocking, floral prints, African inspired tribal prints, bra tops and bandage dresses are on the top of the list for us this year. Read below to find out why!

1. Color Blocking Mix and match bold, solid-color pieces together to glam up an outfit. Ditch the basic black and have fun playing with bright, vibrant colors Spring. Be careful though! Stay with two to three bright colors (max) to avoid looking like a clown.

2. Floral Prints Floral prints were everywhere on the runways shows featuring Spring 2012’s trends. Look feminine and fabulous in a floral pattern dress. It’s perfect for going out or just hanging out with all your girlfriends.

3. African Tribal Prints Vibrant African tribal prints feature bodacious

colors and geometrical shapes. Make a bold statement and acquire your own unique style by mixing different patterns in your outfit!

4. Bra TopsLadies, get ready for one of Spring 2012’s most stylish trends, the Bra/Crop tops, by working out your abs now. Show off your hard work by rocking out a bra top as part of your outfit for this Spring!

5. Bandage DressesSpruce up your style sense with a sexy bandage dress. We assure you that all eyes will be on you. Bandage dresses are great for showing a women’s curve as they are detailed in strategical designs that focuses on the sexy curves of a woman’s body.

GET INSPIRED FROM THE RUNWAY and SHOP AT FLAUNT BOUTIQUE for these stylish trends! Which of these fashion trends will you FLAUNT this Spring? We dare you to try all of them!

- Erica Cheung

February Fashionscope

Aries Horoscope (March 21-April 20): A sort of transformation will begin to take place in your life. It has to do with your destiny. You may not be aware of it but it will still occur anyway. The shift has to do with how you look at money and how you share it. Also, how you view and take responsibility in relationships. Tests will come. You will pass.It sounds like Aries need to buy themselves a gift this month! Make it expensive...Uvo bag maybe???

Taurus Horoscope (April 21-May 21): You’re caring a lot more about your public or professional image in February. If there are problems with authority figures, co-workers, or your reputation, you are likely to take things to heart, and this sensitivity might get you in the middle of some conflicts this month. You are bound to be working exceptionally hard, and your pride is wrapped up in what you do. It’s a time for showing your competence. Still, the urge for adventure and new experiences is strong, and you’re likely to indulge yourself in your time off.Feeling professional? A suit look doesn’t jus have to be black and white. Throw in a pop of color! When trying to prove your competence, red is a good color. It symbolizes power and it seems like you will need to reclaim your power this month! Find the perfect day-to-night top so you can wear it with your suit and pack it on your much needed vacay!

Gemini Horoscope (May 23-June 20): You are entering an exceptionally friendly period of your

life. The major key to your success now lies in the expansion of your social circle or network. Sharing your expertise with associates, free of charge, can aid you in furthering your career goals, and can boost your personal popularity. You are filled with ideas for future projects, and while some of them are likely to pay off down the road, it’s better not to spread yourself too thin. Instead, focus on just a few projects and give your all to them.It appears the Gemini will be sociable this month. Wear something that sparks a conversation, whether it be a statement accessory or a funky colorful top. Your advice to your associates could be how they could look as fab as you!

Cancer Horoscope (June 21-July 20): You may not have any patience if something feels drab and routine becomes tedious. If you labor under tiresome conditions your patience will flag and your discipline drop. You also may have headaches. It’s important that exhaustion not enter into your every day. Communication now proceeds forward, though in slow motion. Things missing soon appear.Feeling drab this month? Change things up! Stop wearing black all the time. Buy an awesome necklace. If you are know to come the party in the hot red number, wow them in a little black dress!!

Leo Horoscope (July 21-Aug. 22): After much consultation and communication, which may continue for a year, you finally put yourself on pause and take yourself to the comforting shapes and shadows of home. And hide away awhile so you can decide which is most important now. Home or profession. Both are, yes. But one must be in the spotlight.When you feel the need to hide, nothing hides more than oversized clothing! But you have to do this look right. If you want to wear the oversized sweater, you have to rock something tight on the bottom, whether it be skinny jeans, leggings, or a fitted skirt.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Things hidden within the daily life, come out into the open and into the light of the Sun. Neptune, previously shrouding many things, no longer allows this to occur. Neptune can feel like it’s dissolving things. But really it’s just hiding them. Then it refines them. Be resourceful with resources.Okay Virgo, you’re going to the opposite of Leo! Put away your oversized wardrobe and get out the clothes that show those sexy curves. We all know Virgos are known to be sexy. Three names tell us this: Beyonce, Cameron Diaz, and Salma Hayek! All virgos!! Go shopping and show what you got!

Libra Horoscope (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): This is an excellent month for romance, pleasure, and creativity. Your powers of attraction run exceptionally high this month. Romantic feelings are stirred. Some Libras will be entering partnerships in the first half of 2011, and while you are feeling a little hesitant to throw yourself into something new whole-heartedly much of February, by the last week, your heart is likely to catch up. Artists and hobbyists will have an especially creative and exciting month. Super energy is with you for starting new projects after the 3rd.Sounds like you Libras will have Valentine’s Day plans. Don’t do the traditional pink or red this year. Lets do some other high energy colors like emerald green, royal blue, or, dare I say, YELLOW!!!

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): February is a strong month for working on projects around the house, and even on the house. Renovations, redecorating, and making improvements that allow more freedom as well as organization and comfort on the home front can have long-lasting results. There might be some tension with family members this month, so you’ll need to be especially sensitive. A partner is especially communicative and open. You are now enjoying a cycle in which you find more joy in the work you do, expanded job opportunities, and improved health.This is everyone’s favorite style. The comfy style! But there is a right way to do comfy and still be cute! You put on the oversized top with leggings. Make the shoes cute! Boots are a good way to dress this up and always, ALWAYS ACCESSORIZE! Make sure your hair is presentable and at least put on lip gloss.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov. 22-Dec. 20): You are entering an excellent period of your life for pleasure, creativity, romance, and self-expression, dear Sagittarius. This cycle lasts until June, so take advantage. It’s a wonderful time for discovering or rediscovering creative hobbies and artistic talents. It’s also strong for socializing, partying, and romantic attraction. Your confidence in yourself is on an upswing. February is a month for the pursuit of pleasure, communicating, and learning. The only caution will be to avoid overspending. Your desire for comfort through personal possessions as well as for entertainment is strong now, and you may be tempted to borrow from the future.I know you Sagittarius’ never need an excuse to party but here you go. It’s your month to do so! Go out and find the perfect party outfit. Get something that sparkles because now that New Year’s Eve has past, all that glitters, needs to go, so you’ll find great sales!

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec. 21-Jan. 20): Beauty and balance will be what you seek out in the world because it will be what seems to define you. This month, both career goals and romantic pursuits are clearer. You are attracting positive attention on a personal level, particularly when it comes to love, and on a professional level. Job offers could surface. Your drive for security is strong in February, and you’ll be working hard at making your life more comfortable. You are in a cycle that brings more joy to your home and family life, and this runs until June. The Capricorn needs to be on top of things this month. Make sure you are always looking good wherever you go. If you think you can just run to grocery store in some sweats, think again. Go back to your closet and put on your best jeans! When you go to work don’t forget your earrings, let’s iron our clothes this month.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan. 21-Feb. 18): Some sort of public recognition and praise should occur and it could be rather unexpected. If the public doesn’t recognize your gifts then your family will. If you family doesn’t then your pets certainly do. Anyway, the stars call you to a vacation somewhere. Are you free? Money arrives.So where are you going Aquarius. The swimsuits are in stores now if you want to take that route. Fine something fun and flowy to walk around in.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb. 18-March 20): You will feel an internal pressure and search for your authentic working style for you need your life to feel fuller, more interesting, more worthwhile. This occurs automatically as you slow down a bit, downshift, so to speak, and live and work at a slower pace. You then fulfill yourself and seek not the “other.”This month, the Pisces needs to be calm. Wear the colors you Pisces’ love most: blue, violet, light greens. And something that has some flow to it, that reminds you of the water.

Sources:“Horoscope Quickies Feb ‘11.” Cafe Astrology Astrology Signs, Horoscopes, Love. Web. 10 Feb. 2012. <http://www.cafeastrology.com/february_2011_overview_horoscopes.html>.

“2012 February Horoscopes | Free Horoscope for February | February Zodiac 2012.” Horoscope 2012 Free - Yearly Horoscope 2012 - Zodiac Sign 2012. Web. 10 Feb. 2012. <http://www.horoscope2012free.com/2012-february-horoscope.html>.

-Brianca German

February Fashion Affirmation: This month I will be FABULOUS, no matter how cold it is outside. I will wake up and know that nothing can or will stop me from achieving all that I want. Every day I will work hard, play harder, and I will look good doing it. I will see nothing as being defeated, instead I will see it as a challenge and tackle it head on. February will be prosperous and beautiful, because I say so and because I won’t let it be any other way. -Jessica Johnson

Home Styles of 2012 By: Gwendolyn Mejia

Just like there are fashion and style trends, there are also home furnishing trends that come and go throughout the seasons. Believe it or not, there are ways to make your home fashionable. The 2011-2012 home fabric trends that defined the exhibi-tion at the Heimtextil Trend Pavilion in Frankfurt were utility, mix mash, wilderness, and sobriety. Below is an excerpt from apartmenttherapy.com discussing these four trends:

“UTILITY: Based on industrial and workwear materials, the utility trend focuses on sustainability through new technology and pared down essentials. Fabrics include felt, cotton, unbleached and waxed canvas, denim, linen, and industrial textiles.WILDERNESS: Defined by a return to nature and folk arts, the wilderness trend embraces a raw and handcrafted aesthetic with fabrics like wool, aged leather, natural fibers, and chunky knits in a neutral palette.MIX MASH: Bright and whimsical, the mix mash trend is made defined by bright colors and bold patterns from a variety of cultural and ethnic traditions. Complicated crocheted, beaded, and woven fabrics embody the trend, as well as printed geometric, ethnic, and even kitschy patterns.SOBRIETY: Exemplified by fabrics that exhibit quality, craftsmanship and a minimal aesthetic, sobriety embraces a return to traditional design. Fabrics include plaids, herringbones, wool, cashmere, suede, and leather.” (apartmenttherapy.com)In this New Year, try out these different trends in your home or even mix and mash 2 of them! Change is good! Redecorat-ing is a great way to start ‘fresh’ this year. You have fun playing with your wardrobe, so why not have fun playing with your living room?

Step Into SpringBy: Karolyn

Spring is in the air and as the warm breezes enter our souls we immediately feel a sense of renewal and an urge to eradicate all that reminds us of the harsh days of winter. Ah spring, just saying the word uplifts the soul and rejuvenates the mind. It is the time to exfoliate the hum drum of the winter wardrobe and awaken the skin and senses to the absoluteness of a life transformation. This transformation begins from within and is revealed in your spring wardrobe. Enter Flaunt boutique and feel as if you have walked into an arboretum of clothing. The colors, warm beige, pastels, bold oranges, classic black and white, blossom through the boutique.At Flaunt you will find apparel for every body type and every style. The hottest trends of the season have stepped off the runways and flourished at this one of a kind boutique. Flaunt confirms that bold colors such as oranges, tangerines, and hot pink are sizzling this season. Vibrant printed tops and dresses featuring both flower and animal prints are a must have for any Flauntinista. Flirty shorts and barely there skirts allow your lean legs to take center stage. Adorn you feet with a strappy heel that accentuates, or a powerful cutout san-dal. Preppsters or classical types will find happiness in this seasons nautical stripes. Let them be your guide into an exceptional spring. Black and white is once again popular and will always make a notable statement. The biggest trend of the season will be the soft pastels and light airy fabrics that dance with your body. The pastels and fabrics should tickle your skin like the silky petals from a rose leaving a sweet fragrance of elegance on your skin. So what are you waiting for? Step into spring with a sense of renewal, step into Flaunt to begin your jour-ney.