I recently worked with a fabulous client, Amy. She has a great eye for style and fashion but wanted some help in understanding the shapes and cuts that are best for her. I found this amazing dress in Amy’s closet but noticed that she paired it with a belt that just didn’t do justice to her lovely shape. Take a look: Now I know some of you look at this and are thinking “but that looks ok”. Yes, it looks ok but it’s not awesome. Here’s why: The belt is too thick for her short torso. It cuts her body in the wrong place. Amy has a bigger bustline. Because the size of the belt takes up so much of her torso, all you are really looking at is her chest. As Amy and I discussed, it looks like she’s “all boobs”. That’s not what she’s going for. The belt is made with that heavy, unflattering, unforgiving elastic. It’s way too tight on her (and would be tight on most people… I’m not sure who this belt is realy made for). These belts give you indigestion; they are that tight. Based on Amy’s proportions, I suggested she opt for a skinny belt with this dress instead. Take a look: Now that’s much better. Here’s why: The size and width of the belt is more proportional to her frame. When you look at Amy, your eye is now drawn to the smallest part of her waist rather than her bustline. By the way, Amy had this belt in her closet. She just never wore it because she didn’t know what to wear it with. Now she does. Here’s a better side by side look. Now, back to you. My style tips for adding skinny belts to your fabulous outfit are: Use a skinny belt to highlight the smallest part of your waist – that’s somewhere between your belly button and chest. You certainly don’t have to spend a fortune on this piece. A skinny belt is a good accessory to up on fashion trends. It’s easy – and cheap – to swap them out from season to season. Here are my Friday Finds for you: Vince Camuto- Leo Belt Luv AJ- Ramone Belt Kate Spade- Skinny Bow Belt Happy Friday!
Friday Find: A bit of sunshine
Yay! The sun and warmth has finally made it to my neck of the woods. In honour of the sunshine, I’ve pulled together a couple of bright day dresses for you. These are perfect for the office and would work well for a weekend soiree too. Let’s call this HI-LO. HI Rebecca Taylor- Sleeveless Textured Brocade Dress The brocade texture and weave detailing are impeccable. This summer frock is a great alternative to your typical power dress and will surely draw attention – the right kind – in the boardroom. If the A/C is a bit high in your office, go ahead and pair this with a light blazer. My suggestion is to stay away from black. I know this is the easiest option for most of you but it really is quite boring (sorry) and doesn’t look very summery. I’d opt for perhaps crisp white (additional texture would look great) or a white and navy pattern or perhaps even a salmon coloured blazer. Yes, I have this in the HI category but guess what? It’s on sale – 30% off (at $262). Not too HI priced at all! LO H&M- Sleeveless Dress This knee-length, bright yellow frock has beautiful seeming through the waistline which will make it flattering on many body types. It’s begging for a belt. I’d go with a bright pink or turquoise skinny belt. I might even pair it with a printed belt. At $49.99, this dress is a steal. With the right care and maintenance, I’m sure you’ll have it for at least a few seasons. Happy Friday!
Part 4: Consignment pieces for your Spring/Summer wardrobe? Yes please!
Aloha from Maui! It’s time for a little break. Before the vacay starts though, I wanted to share the last breakdown from the recent style segment I hosted on Breakfast Television. Gents, you’re doing to dig this look. It’s perfect for a spring day or even a cooler summer evening. A S/S Casual Look #2 Why this look is amazing: This are all consignment pieces – of course that makes this look amazing. These jeans, for example, are brand new – the tags are still on and everything – but they’re half the price you’d pay at a retailer (they’re 7 For All Mankind, which I love). Awesome. This bright orange-red denim is perfect for this season and is much more versatile than you’d think. The easiest way to wear a coloured denim is to pair it with a solid colour. For more interest and to pump up the style factor, add a pattern. Doing so in a more neutral colour, as I’ve done here with this navy printed cardigan, is going to be your best bet. The style of cardigan works well buttoned all the way up. If this isn’t really your style, just do what works best for you. That’s why it’s called personal style. ;) I love these sandals. It takes the right guy to pull these off and our model is the right guy to do just that. You can certainly do this too. If a casual sneaker or casual oxford shoe is more your style, feel free to swap this out. Now our model has the best hair so we’ve chosen to play this up and make it a key part of the overall look. You can certainly do this same, if that’s your thing. Ok y’all. Our roundup is complete. I hope you got a few extra tips from this consignment series. Remember, shopping consignment is a great way to find unique, quality pieces at a fraction of the cost. You just need to spend a bit of time and effort wading through pieces until you find that gem. I’m going to walk down to the beach now… Shout outs Hair: House of Tin Salon Makeup: Makeup by Bean Styling: Yours Truly Clothing, Accessories, Shoes: Dress to Suit Model: Diljot J.