Monday, March 29, 2010

Stylin' VIDEO: Eliminating the Muffin Top

For today’s tip we are focusing on that area at the waistline where many women get that unsightly bulge hanging over. Now, I realize that everyone has problem days and I am certainly not immune to this predicament, but let's try to make the best look possible with what we’ve got!

Below is a video detailing this problem or scroll down further for more detailed instructions.



1. Don’t be afraid to wear a bigger size. Yes, it is a bummer when we grow a bit bigger than our normal size, but it isn’t the end of the world. Go out and buy a new pair of pants! You work hard, you deserve nice things. No one knows what size you are wearing and no one cares. With that extra few inches of space you eliminate any skin/fat hanging over and instantly have a smoother shape- thus making you look thinner.

2. Please no tight shirts with tight pants. If you absolutely must wear bottoms that are too tight, please wear the appropriate top. Make sure you have a blouse that cascades over the belly area and doesn’t cling to it. A heavy weight fabric is great for this, or even a billowing crepe or chiffon. I would avoid any stretch items in this case. This is a great quick fix for when you are in that in between stage of sizes and don’t want to buy something new just yet.

3. Avoid low rise pants and skirts. The style I see from a lot of retailers these days is super low cut - Like 4” of rise. How is that comfortable? The low cut also sits lower on the abdomen (where there is more bulk) and what results is the muffin top. By just wearing bottoms with a higher waist, you can banish this problem. The higher the waistline the narrower the abdomen gets. The higher waist will cover up all the rolls. Try it, you’ll see.

4. Stand tall and proud. I am old fashioned, but I have an issue with slouching. Even more of an issue when I see that it adds extra weight to a person. By standing up tall and straight, it gives the fat somewhere to go (a more even distribution if you will) and will make you look slimmer- promise.

xoxo
Stefanie

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Stylin' Tip: Shoe Shopping!

Shoes!

This week lets discuss how to bring your outfit together with awesome shoes!

I have always been a lover of shoes, and often I have been known to buy shoes first and the outfit second (I have heard this is a common thing-hehe). But sadly, I see combinations that don’t really work. Great shoes paired with bad outfits, or horrible shoes matched with amazing pieces. Some things for you to think about when choosing your shoes:

Tip #1:
Ballerina Flats match everything!
These can be worn with skirts, jeans, capris, wide leg pants, slim fit pants- so versatile. These would be a great replacement to running shoes when completing errands. It instantly makes a casual look dressier and gives you that Audrey Hepburn appeal.

In the summer, feel free to substitute strappy flat sandals for ballerina flats (same rules apply).

Tip#2:
Pumps should only be worn with skirts.
To clarify, pumps are those Barbie-like shoes, with a high heel, closed toe (usually pointy). You can wear pumps with pants, but its tricky. You have to ensure the pants are the right length (generally longer than you think) and the right width (super skinny or super wide). Just to be safe, wear pumps only with skirts, otherwise you could be dating yourself.

Tip#3:
Wedges and platform heels should be worn with “slim fit” styles.
Slim fit jeans and pencil skirts really show off your legs and the wedge/platform heel adds the extra umph you need, giving you lift, height, and balance. This is the modern day pump.

Tip #4:
Don’t match your shoes and outfit perfectly.
If you are wearing an all black outfit, add a colorful shoe. If you are wearing a super vibrant outfit, wear a neutral shoe. Switch it up! This technique definitely will give you some style savvy!

Tip #5:
The Bootie is the perfect transitional shoe.
Not as bulky as a full boot, but more protective than a ballerina flat, these shoes are great to wear in the fall and spring. They would be too heavy for summer months and not heavy enough for the winter season (if you have snow that is), but look amazing with slim fit styles. They will give you that urban casual look you’ve been craving.

Till next time!
xoxo
Stefanie

Shoe Shopping Guide:
Flats
Sandals
Pumps
Wedges
Color
Bootie

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Stylin' VIDEO: Boxy to Hot

Today I wanted to discuss with you a common problem I see- Boxy Fitting Clothing.

In some ways it is good to have your clothes be bigger or square, because the items then cascade off the body and hide all those problem areas we all have.

The trouble is when we don’t style those cuts properly and end up looking bigger than we are.

Watch the video or read my more detailed tips below:



1. If your shirt has a square cut, try adding a belt. If you can’t find a cool belt that is your size, go out and get some ribbon to give your waist definition. If you really don’t like the idea of a belt, chose a vest or jacket that cuts in at the waist- this will also define the body.

2. Most women I see are wearing the “boot cut” pant. To be honest, unless you are actually wearing boots, I don’t think this style pant is doing you any favors. Try wearing a more modern silhouette. Slim fit is preferred or if that doesn’t work for you, go with a wide leg instead of boot cut.

Boot cuts tend to be too baggy and despite what people tell you, they do not balance out a figure. A tiny little flare at the hem does not equal a large upper body. And also, make sure they are the right length. If a pant is too short it can make you look stumpy. The pant should be just close enough to the floor without touching it.

3. Shoes are a very important accessory and should not be forgotten. I love heels, but I walk everywhere I go, so they are not very practical. I prefer to wear a ballet flat for everyday that has a bit of detail (a pop of color, a bow, a ruffle). They look great with everything- Slim fit pants, wide leg pants, skirts and dresses. Try transitioning out of a heavy, clunking shoe.

4. Don’t forget that your face is one of your best features and should never be forgotten! By pulling your hair back, adding some fresh and quick make-up, your look is complete!

xoxo
Stefanie

Monday, March 8, 2010

Stylin' Tip: The Half-wrap Shirt



I have seen this style of shirt everywhere, on every woman, in every size. It can be the most flattering fit if worn correctly, but worn incorrectly it can be disastrous. I’m sure you’ve seen it as well…

It isn’t always the fault of the wearer; I’ll give you that. Most of the time this style blouse is made by the manufacturer in haste, not taking into account the actual size of a woman’s bust. This is the main problem. The line of this shirt cuts right across the widest part of the bust and the fabric below falls in such a way that it makes a woman’s entire upper body look like a linebackers.

 



So some quick tips on how to avoid this troublesome issue: