Saturday, February 25, 2012

Which Neckline Is Best For Me?

The right neckline can definitely enhance you natural body shape. It can make you look slimmer and more put together. Once you know which neckline works best for you,  you naturally look for that type of top when you go shopping.

Crewneck - This classic style is very easy to find. It doesn't necessarily flatter everyone.  This look is best if you have a small or medium size bust and an average or long neck.  Steer clear if you have a larger bust or shorter neck because it can make you look bigger and shorter.

V-Neck - This is a great style. It flatters everyone!  Small bust, large bust, short neck, long neck. This style enhances every ones natural assets.  If you are bigger on top try a narrower v-neck. If you are smaller go for a wider neckline.

Scoopneck - Similar to a V-neck. This style flatters a larger bust because it shows more neck and upper chest. It makes the bust appear smaller. Don't forget a demi cut bra. If you go for a full coverage bra you run the risk of having your bra peek through.
Boatneck - This neckline is very feminine and makes any top even a t-shirt a little more dressy. It works best with a smaller bust and longer neck. Add an accessory to finish the look. Don't forget to wear a bra with straps that hit at the end of the shoulder or go for a strapless bra.

Remember long lines like a v-neck make things appear smaller.  A crewneck or boatneck makes things appear wider.

Happy shopping!

Friday, February 3, 2012

Can I really wear a jumpsuit?

Of course you can!

Jumpsuits were all the rage at recent spring fashion shows.  You don't have to be a stick figure to pull it off but some tips will definetly help you not look like you are wearing a baby onesie.

Treat a jumpsuit like a dress. Top it off with a blazer for a polished look or a belt to break up the look.

Don't do head to toe pattern. It will look to busy and totally 80's.

Choose a wide leg pant and a forgiving fabric like jersey to help you conceal any part you are not totally confident about.

There are many varieties from simple black for a night out look to a casual cotton daytime look.

Finish off with a great platform heel or a nice wedge to finish off the look.

Don't forget the jewelry. The open neckline is perfect for a long necklace to compliment the look.


Happy Shopping!

Friday, December 2, 2011

Little Black Dresses (or not so little)

Little black dresses (LBD's) are probably the most versatile thing in your closet.  They are pretty easy to play up or down.  They can last many seasons and be an essential part of any woman's closet. 

This begs the question: Which is the best LBD for my body and budget?

The key is always to accentuate your best asset. (We all have some.)

Pear Shapes - Smaller waist, bigger bottoms and thighs. 

Think fit and flare shapes.  Pick dresses that cinch at the waist and flare through your bottom and thighs.  This will make you look slimmer and show off your tiny waist.  Avoid shorter and tighter cuts that can make you look heavy and shorter.

Busty - Larger breasts, slimmer through waist and hips.

Try knee length sheath or A-line dresses with V-neck necklines to balance your top and bottom half.  Avoid very high necklines and shorter, tighter cuts they won't help balance you  out.

Curvy - Hourglass shape.

Choose one part of your body to highlight at a time. Avoid going too sexy or too much.

Boyish - Straight figure, little curves.

Look for details that look flirty. You can go shorter and have a deep V neckline, all this will help create curves. Avoid dresses that go straight up and down. Will not show off waist.

Plus size - Bigger through bust and bottom

Look for dresses that have some asymmetrical pleats or gatherings at the waist or bust. A detail at the waist will help you look slimmer at the waist.  Strapless tops with a flare bottom will balance you out. Babydoll styles are particularly flattering.  Avoid styles that are too tight and short. 

Always remember to accessorize. This can completely change your look.

Happy Shopping!





Tuesday, October 18, 2011

How To Layer When It Starts To Get Chilly

As the leaves change and the smell of spice fills the air the temperature starts to drop. Dressing this time of year can be tricky because the weather can be so unpredictable. The key to dressing in the fall season is layering.

First of all there are a few basics that everyone should own (you probably already do). These are simple pieces but necessary: a few button down shirts in different colors, a few sweaters or cardigans, jackets and/or blazers, scarves, hats and at least one good coat.

When it lowers in the 60's and 50's it's pretty easy to layer. You can get away with two or three layers. If using a button down let some of the collar peek through for a pop a color. Top it off with a simple cardigan or a printed sweater and you are ready to go.

As the temperature dips into the 40's and 30's more layers are necessary. Treat dressed like skirts and layer underneath them with a silk blouse. This is a great way to add a layer without too much bulk. Finish off with a sweater or blazer and add a thick knitted scarf. Scarves a great way to add some style and color to an otherwise simple or neutral palette.

OK, now its freezing outside. Getting dressed requires a lot more thought and a few extra minutes.  Try to layer with some prints and keep the look classic. Use tights to keep your legs warm. This season there are all types of different types of tights. They come in all different prints and colors.  If you choose a wild color like red, green or purple (very popular this season) try to match your choose to your tights. It's a little funky but matches and will add some life to an otherwise gray and dreary day.

Don't let the temperature affect your style. Just give yourself a few extra minutes to put a great outfit together.

Happy Shopping!