The Correct Way to Wear a Maxi Skirt

You may have noticed the huge maxi-skirt trend seen on the stars on the streets and on the models of the runways. It’s a great trend to try, but if not done right, the maxi skirt will leave you looking frumpy. Although the maxi is most flattering on tall women, any woman can pull off the look by following these styling tips:

1) Add Interest
Although the maxi trend was influenced by the 70’s, that doesn’t mean you have to copy the trend literally. It’s 2011 and you want to look modern, so add interest with a long necklace, dangly earrings, edgy booties or high-heeled boots. If your skirt  is in a neutral color, wear a colored top. Or instead of a basic maxi skirt, try a ruffled skirt.

2) Wear a Fitted Top
To balance out the amount of volume on bottom, you need to wear a fitted shirt on top. Avoid billowy blouses that can make you look big. Try a button-up shirt, a basic tee, or a screen-printed tee.

3) Define Your Waist

Under all those layers of clothes, the shape of your body will disappear. Define your waist by tucking in your top, wearing a belt, and/or wearing a cropped jacket or cardigan, but please no crop tops.

Must-Have Valentine's Day Dresses

Still in search of the perfect dress to wear on Valentine's Day? Well search no more! Here are five dress options to choose from. Whether you're looking for the sexy dress, the flirty dress, the red dress, the classic dress, or the edgy dress, this list will surely curb your appetite.

The Sexy Dress

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="347" caption="Nicole Miller Eva Stretch Lace Dress $420"][/caption]

If you want to look sexy, this dress will undoubtedly turn heads. It’s not too low-cut or too short, which is a perfect balance to the risque lace overlay. For the perfect look, wear it with a pair of simple black heels and long dangling earrings.

The Flirty Dress

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="350" caption="BCBG Margo Strapless Silk Cocktail Dress $248"][/caption]

The innocent look and flirty color of this dress will vibrate energy in the room and will keep your significant other smiling. Add a pair of strappy sandals and a delicate piece of jewelry such as a pendant necklace.

The Red Dress

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="350" caption="Julie Dillon Georgette Blouson Shift Dress $178"][/caption]

I looked through pages of websites to find this perfect red dress. This feminine piece flatters many body types, with its feminine ruffles and matte fabric. It should be worn with a pair of sexy heels and a statement cocktail ring.

The Classic Dress

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="347" caption="Tadashi Shoji Scalloped Lace Dress $390"][/caption]

If you don't want to bare it all, then go for this classic dress. The lace edges give off just the right amount of sex appeal for your special night out. Pair this with a black patent leather pointy-toed shoe and stud earrings to complete the look.

The Edgy Dress

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="347" caption="Allsaints Spitalfields Lamia Dress $450"][/caption]

Instead of going with a structured edgy dress, try this soft drapey dress. The feminine sheer overlay makes this a must to twirl in! Add a cuff bracelet, a chunky ring, and a shootie (trust me it exists: part boot, part heel, part dressy shoe).

Colorful Ideas to Mend Your Winter Blues

Here are some tips on what to get to make your wardrobe feel alive again.  Don’t let the dark days dampen your colorful and lively personality. You don’t have to add color in a dramatic way.  Instead, incorporate color with a sprinkle here and there.  If you're currently struting around head-to-toe in neutrals, then add some color by going with hues that are soft such as dusty rose and whisper blue. Then slowly add in jeweled-toned or other brightly-colored pieces that are attention-grabbing.

Below are examples of eye-catching ways to add color to your wardrobe. What colors will you add to your winter wardrobe?

PRINT DRESS THAT EXCITE

IKAT $148

This printed dress is more versatile than you think! Wear it barelegged in the evening, with tights and a pair of booties/flat over-the-knee boots for a casual look, with a faux-fur vest for a trendy look, or with a pair of camel-colored wedges for next season!

CARDI IN YOUR FAVORITE COLOR

GESTUZ $89

Okay, so the best part about this cardi is it’s 100% cotton.  I know many of you struggle with finding sweaters that contain no wool, alpaca, etc. The next best feature about this cardi is that it instantly boosts color into your outfit.  Wear it with a casual white or black tee or a neutral-printed top.

TRANSITIONAL SWEATER

MICHAEL KORS $89.50

You gotta love this lightweight casual piece.  It adds instant luxury to any outfit as simple as a tee and jeans.

ONE OF A KIND

MAWI $450

This popped out at me on the page and I just had to share it with you all.  The blue gem, the-silver-and-gold combo, and the weight makes this a stunning piece.  I promise, if you wear this with your everyday jeans, you will feel much more put-together.  Find a favorite piece that will add excitement to your neutrals.

BEYOND THIS WORLD

MANIAMANIA $196

What do you think? I have no words to describe this.....I am left speechless

Find pieces that make you feel alive!  Then find all the possible ways you can wear it with what you already own.  Please don’t leave your feel-good pieces in the back of your closet waiting for “that special moment”.

"There is so much nonsense about fashion.  People buy clothes because they want to feel and look good, not for any deep psychological needs." -Karl Lagerfeld

Say buh-bye to hat hair!

This winter calls for looking good and staying warm. You might think that hats were made to hide bad hair, but this winter use it to your advantage. Giovanna, owner of Duque Salon & Spa in Ballard, gave me a few pointers.  From now on, wear those hats with pride and don't feel like you have to keep it on the rest of the day.  Once you take it off you may uncover locks of sexiness!

[caption id="attachment_274" align="aligncenter" width="200" caption="Christian Dior - Fall 2010"][/caption]Words directly from the expert:
"1. This season's hair is easy and utterly UN-done, so hat hair can actually be used as a "styling" tool. You must start with the right products though.

2. Just braid hair loosely and tuck away..afterward when removing the hat just let the braid down and gently run your fingers through your tresses. You'll end up with loose, relaxed beach waves...perfectly on trend.

3. To create volume move your hair in the opposite direction that you normally wear it...when you take the hat your hair will fall into place with extra lift at the roots...

4. Another great trick is to sprinkle a little water on your fingertips, then flip your head over and give yourself a good rub at the roots...and flip back..wa-la instant sexy bed-head..."

Try the tips out and let us know what you think!

FUR HATS- For the glamorous individuals

Netherfield Hat $84

Fur coats, scarves, shoes, vests and YES fur hats!  It's almost like you can't overdo it with the faux fur.  Wear this out and about on a date night through downtown or an evening gathering.

KNIT BEANIES- The hat that literally goes with everything

Fossil Melanie Hat $32

If you aren't into wearing hats, this is a good start.  Easy to wear and itch-free, made of acrylic.

SCHOOL BOY INSPIRED/MILITARY CAP- Call it what you may, but this is for a woman on the go

Wool Contrast Military Cap $20

This is such a great look with boots and casual tee or glam it up with booties and cropped pants.  Makes me feel like a woman on a mission!

Do you wear hats to keep you warm or for fashion purposes? What's your favorite hat and why?

"That's the thing about hats. They're extravagant and full of humour and allow for a sense of costume, but in a lighthearted way." - Stephen Jones

 

 

The perfect way to add style to any outfit this winter

There is nothing more classic and chic than gloves.  Although you probably use them for their main purpose, to keep warm during the cold seasons, they can also make such a statement.  If you find yourself at a local boutique and find a leather glove as soft as silk, the purchase will definitely be one you will be able to justify.  Below you will find the lovely women that made the glove a desirable piece to use over and over again.

THE PAST

[caption id="attachment_223" align="aligncenter" width="168" caption="Audrey Hepburn"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_225" align="aligncenter" width="286" caption="Balenciaga Photo Shoot 1954"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_226" align="aligncenter" width="291" caption="1955- Model in collarless suit with straight skirt and Persian lamb scarf, both by Balenciaga"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_222" align="aligncenter" width="211" caption="Margaret Lee"][/caption]

Interpreting fashion is my forte. From past to present, from runway to reality, from high-end to low-end, I do whatever it takes to make it useful for your lifestyle. Below are runway images from winter 2010. Wear a pair of long or short silk/leather gloves with a dress for evening, long scrunchy leather gloves for day time, knit or alpaca gloves for casual, and fingerless gloves for fun.

THE PRESENT

[caption id="attachment_229" align="aligncenter" width="200" caption="DESIGNER: Rochas THE LOOK: Timeless"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_230" align="aligncenter" width="200" caption="DESIGNER: Roksanda Ilinicic THE LOOK: Powerful"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_231" align="aligncenter" width="200" caption="DESIGNER: TSE THE LOOK: Trendy"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_232" align="aligncenter" width="200" caption="DESIGNER: United Bamboo THE LOOK: Edgy"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_234" align="aligncenter" width="200" caption="DESIGNER: Vera Wang THE LOOK: Formal"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_235" align="aligncenter" width="200" caption="DESIGNER: Micheal Kors THE LOOK: Casual"][/caption]

"A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous." -Coco Chanel

Not the Red Holiday Sweater!

This holiday season put away your red sweater! There are a variety of options to pick from. 

CONSERVATIVE

[caption id="attachment_214" align="aligncenter" width="192" caption="Classiques Entier Short Sleeve Tweed Sweater Jacket $168 @ Nordstrom"][/caption]

  If you go for classic cuts, solid color button ups, and timeless pieces you will enjoy this sweater!  It cinches at the waist and is flattering for the figure. 

  CASUAL 

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Jane Norman Ribbed Shawl Belted Cardi $38"][/caption]

If you like to wear jeans, leggings, flats, or flat boots this sweater will be the perfect way to dress up! 

 ELEGANT 

[caption id="attachment_216" align="aligncenter" width="199" caption="Neo-Refinement Pullover $88 @ Anthropologie"][/caption]

 

 The draping is elegant and stunning for a holiday party.  The darker red is wonderful for evening and a fabulous fall color.  Pearls or gold jewelry will compliment this nicely. 

 ORGANIC 

[caption id="attachment_206" align="aligncenter" width="261" caption="Lela Chunky Rib Cardigan @ People Tree"][/caption]

I love this green color! This would look great with an A line skirt and unique jewelry. 

 TRENDY 

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="350" caption="Mod Cloth Frozen Dew Cardigan $65"][/caption]

 Add leggings and over the knee boots for an edgy yet trendy look.  The sequins make this very festive.

"The difference between style and fashion is quality." -Giorgio Armani

The Curvy Woman's Guide to Dressing this Winter

JEWELRY

Color me beautiful recycled necklace $52 @ EcoBlingCouture

The chunkier the better! Buy a necklace with two or three layers. Try longer earrings to elongate the face and don’t forget, color in the jewelry will draw attention to facial features.  If you aren’t into big jewely, get a necklace with a pendant that represents you!

FLOWY SWEATER

Amber Sun Long Ruffle Cardigan $52.90 @ Nordstrom

Try One size smaller than your normal size and make sure whatever you wear underneath or on bottom is fitted, not baggy.  Avoid too much fabric on the hips and prints on the lower part of the sweater.

SWEATER DRESS

Ponte Knit Cowl Neck for $49.99 @ Lane Bryant

¾ sleeve/short sleeve with empire waist or shaped to fit curves, make sure it hits right above or below the knee , if it is too short it will accentuate the knees. 

BOOTS

Madda Girl Ditta Boot for $59.95 @ DSW

Sleek and fitted, no ruching, no cowboy boots. Boots should go all the way over the calf and try to avoid too many details. This boot has great lines to elongate the leg and there is room for the calves!

JACKETS

Take the Wheel Jacket for $98.00 @ Anthopologie

Hip length with rolled up sleeves.  If you are top heavy avoid big lapels or too much ruffles going on at the top.  I love this jacket because it has a fit that allows room at the bust and has a nice line to it to allow room for the hips.

"We are shaped and fashioned by what we love!" Johann Wolfgang von Goethe quotes

-Tannya Bernadette