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!

Sophie's Accessories

Sophie's Accessories

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!

Trend and Tips: Must Have Fall Essentials!Fall is upon us! Septe...

Trend and Tips: Must Have Fall Essentials!

Fall is upon us! Septe...: Must Have Fall Essentials! Fall is upon us! September 23rd marks the first day of the fall season! After a very hot and humid summer we we...

Must Have Fall Essentials!

Fall is upon us! September 23rd marks the first day of the fall season! After a very hot and humid summer we welcome fall with open arms and warm coats.  That means its time to dig through our closets, basements, attics or any other nook we have stored our fall/winter clothes in.

If we find that some of our warmer clothes needs a little updating it is good to know what we really need to get through the next few months.  With the state of the economy it is probably necessary to buy the essentials and figure out a way to extend our clothes through many seasons.  The following are some essentials that will get you through the next few months without making a hole in your pocket:

1. A warm coat or jacket. Depending on where you live you can get a lighter or heavier jacket. Leather and denim jackets are popular this season. A denim jacket would be a very affordable option that can be easily dressed up or down.  If you live in a colder climate a longer coat would be a good investment. A neutral color would be your best bet. Instead of the usual neutrals like black and brown think outside the box like gray, beige or white. These are just as wearable and polished and not so expected.

2.  Boots. This is can also be a good investment. This season boots come in all different shapes and sizes. From booties which barely cover the ankle to thigh high boots. They also come in all different heel options. Try to pick something comfortable yet stylish.

3.  A warm sweater. Cable knit sweaters and cardigans are everywhere. They have a very polished look and are very versatile.

4.  A scarf.  A great way to change an outfit and obviously stay warm. Pick a few scarves with different colors and styles.

5. Long tees or shirts for layering. The best way to stay warm. Layering.  Look for simple options like plain tees in different colors and button down shirts. The button down men's style shirt is universally flattering on everyone no matter what your shape or size.

6.  Leggings or tights. An easy way to make a summer dress into a fall/winter dress. They come in tons of great colors and styles and are very affordable

7. Accessories. An easy way to shine this fall/winter season. This season it's about all things that glitter like silver and gold. Animal prints are also popular and a great way to add some fun to your look.

Happy Shopping!