I was at a family wedding in Toronto this past weekend and noticed that two different sets of ladies were wearing the same dress. Yes, you read that right! I saw two women who had inadvertently dressed like twins. If that wasn’t bad enough, not five minutes later, I saw two ¬other women who were wearing the same dress – needless to say, they seemed pretty embarrassed to have been wearing the same dress. I guess it shouldn’t be all too shocking to me since there are so many stores that mass-produce clothes at fairly reasonable prices… who can resist a good deal! What was all too much for me to understand was that these two different sets of ladies accessorized the dress in the EXACT same way. They looked like bridesmaids rather than family or friends of the newly-married couple. Anyway, after I stopped furrowing my brow, here were my thoughts on how these women (all 4 of them) could have differentiated themselves from one another: Go home and change (kidding… no I’m not, yes I am… no I’m not)! When purchasing the dress, opt for a colour that is less popular. Make sure it looks fabulous against your skin tone though. Add accessories that are different yet fit with your personality. My thinking would be to choose the less obvious accessory choice to pair with the dress. Here are some of my suggestions: If the dress is simple, glam it up with a pair of bold, eye-catching heels. You could look for evening footwear at a consignment store to find the perfect shoes that is totally unique. Add a belt – perhaps you’ll need a skinny, shiny belt if the dress lacks oomph or a chunky, edgy belt if you want more of a funky look. Add a brooch, necklace or earrings in a bold, contrasting colour. This will draw the eye to the accessory and integrate it as a key component of your outfit. Pair your dress with an evening clutch that definitely enhances the look of the dress. My tendency is to opt for something that is a bit edgier that complements the tone of the dress. When in doubt, play up your hair and makeup! It’s amazing how an interesting hairstyle/up-do with interesting makeup choices can change your overall look! These tips would definitely have helped the wedding guests I encountered this weekend stand apart! If you have any questions on how to ensure that YOU stand apart, let me know.
Fun Looks for that Summer Getaway
It’s the middle of this hot summer (well at least it’s hot for some people this summer) and you’re off to a fun summer destination… think Kelowna or the Muskokas (or the equivalent in your neck of the woods)! What is one to pack besides the usual hiking gear, sports-wear and essential bikini?? Here are some fun summer options that are easy to throw on yet give you that “I-look-fabulous” kind of vibe. Remember, it’s summer so have fun with these looks! 1. A Day of Wine Tasting Cali Striped Shelf Cami Dress, Bloomingdales.com Accessorize with: This is a fun yet cool summer pick and perfect for a summer patio of wine tasting (in the Okanagan or Niagara on the Lake perhaps). I’d accessorize it with a pretty thong sandal, a delicate gold bracelet and some cool aviator shades. Accessory Pick Emmy Thong Flat Sandals, Shopbop.com 2. Walking Around Town Silk Vest, Farfetch.com and ‘Auris’ Shorts, Farfetch.com Accessorize with: I love this casual, pleated short. With a bright-coloured top, it’s a versatile outfit that can be worn to discover new restaurants, hang out at summer festivals, or take a stroll along a waterfront boardwalk. You can accessorize it with a funky pair of sunglasses, a fedora and dark leather, strappy sandals (I’d opt for flats if you’ll be walking all day). Accessory Pick Bordeaux Sunglasses, Farfetch.com 3. Casual Dinner Out Adalyn Pleated Maxi Dress, Shopbop.com Accessorize with: I’d keep it simple and let this special dress speak for itself. You could accessorize it with oversized sunglasses and wedge heels (try something in a matte red or subtle gold pattern). Accessory Pick Oversized Shades, zappos.com Always remember to keep the most important accessory handy- SUNBLOCK! If you have any style questions about these looks or other summertime fun looks – let me know!
Plus-Size Dress Options for those Summer Days at the Office
During those long summer days in the office, you might feel that the dress code (if there is one) doesn’t really indicate how to remain summer-appropriate. You know what I mean – “business casual” just isn’t specific enough on days when it’s hot out and you’re a bit sticky from going down to the local coffee shop to grab your morning fix. Listening to the experiences from some of my plus-size female clients, I decided that it’s time to outline a few amazing summer work options for all you fabulous, fashion-forward, plus-size ladies. Here are three favourite picks for those middle of the summer- wish I was at a resort/cabin but have to work kind of days! (Short Sleeve Faux Wrap Dress, LaneBryant.com) Who says you shouldn’t wear black in the summer? This faux wrap dress looks chic, professional and put-together. I love how the dress hits the waist at the smallest part and then flows away from the body. The flowy sleeve is really pretty, delicate AND isn’t tight under the arms (AKA – no sweat stains)! My gut tells me to pair this with faux, snakeskin sandals (heels are always great), a chunky, gun-metal coloured bracelet and chandelier earrings. I suggest staying away from a necklace as this V-neck shape will open up the neck and help to create length in your overall shape. (Suzi Chin Maggy Boutique Pleated Cap Sleeve Dress, Nordstrom.com) I am just crazy about this dress! It is perfect for summer days in the office or even a night out (you’ll have to glam it up a bit for an evening on the town). I love how your eye is drawn to the waist because of the layering in the pattern. I’d opt for a textured stone-grey belt, a black or grey peep-toe heel and a simple diamond earring. You don’t want to add too much to this look because of the pattern so really focus on keeping the rest of your accessories toned down. Lastly, I love the cap sleeve on this dress, it is VERY flattering! (Donna Ricco Jewelled Silk Dress, lolaandgigi.com) This is the perfect dress to take you from the office to an evening event or drinks out! I love that the neckline has some classy bling on it (which makes it ok for the office). I would normally suggest that you define the waist a bit more with an accent-colour belt but the waistline is a little high on this dress. Instead, I’d focus on adding colour to this look by using other accessories – think cherry-red pumps or a chunky emerald green/bright purple bracelet. I’d stay away from an earring that is too heavy because of all the jewels at the neckline but feel free to play with colour! Remember to think about how to get the most out of an outfit. You CAN be stylish and still pay your mortgage ladies. How can you make your beautiful summer frocks go the distance? If you have a question,