Monday, June 28, 2010

Stylin' VIDEO: Accessories!

So I know I am really pushing this accessory business, but I have to say, a little bit of adornment can make a huge difference.

This video shows you how subtle additions can make a big impact. Read below for further details.





Tip #1
Mix Colors, Textures, and Prints.
If your outfit is plain (a pretty black dress for example), that is the best base to experiment. Add a red belt, some turquoise suede pumps, some gold bangles, some black feather earrings and a vintage printed clutch that ties all the colors together. Can you envision it? I can. And trust me - it looks fantastic!

Tip #2
When In Doubt, Go Monochromatic.
One way to not mess up in this department is to keep things in the same color tone. A white blouse and jeans would look great with some long strands of pearls, a cream cuff, some pearl stud earrings, and white hair bow – add some white ballet flats and a handbag and you’re party ready!

Tip #3
Don’t Be Afraid To Go Big.
Although this video doesn’t show it, I love big oversized brooches, large hair bows, and wide belts. One of the advantages to being bigger is that we can we definitely can pull off larger accessories - in fact I recommend it! Match the scale of your accessories with the scale of your body. Don’t wear a dinky flower on your lapel. Instead, make an impact with a statement piece of jewelry – large drop earrings, a fringe necklace, or a wide beaded belt. I am getting excited just thinking of it!

Till next time,
Xoxo
Stefanie

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Stylin' Tip: Swimsuit Season!

I love summer. The heat! The clothes! The drinks! The parties! So much fun to be had.

And during all these fun summer adventures, you know you are going to want to go swimming. Yes, swimming! I can feel the cool water cascade over me as I write this.

For most women, the thought of being swimsuit ready makes them cringe – at least it makes me cringe. I just want to have fun, you know? Let’s check our paranoia and phobias at the door and discuss the best ways for you to look hot in your swimsuit, as is - no weight loss required!

Tip#1
It’s All About Shape.
The right swimsuit shape for your body is key. Don’t go wearing a bikini (or even a tankini) if you have extra weight around your middle. You need something to suck you in. And feel free to wear a strapless bathing suit if you have kick ass shoulders, or a backless design if you’ve got the spine.

The key is to know your shape and go from there. Here are some shapes and ideas for the best swimsuit for you:

Pear Shape: Bring attention to your face and not your hips. Get a suit with Gathers or ruffles near your face to draw attention away from your lower half.

Inverted Triangle: In this case you want to make your shoulders look smaller. Try going for a halter style that has extra detailing on your hips. Horizontal stripes would actually be a great idea here, or a vintage style bottom with a skirt attached. The halter will bring attention inward and the lower skirt will balance out the figure.

Curvy: You are pretty lucky if you have this shape, because really, anything goes. Strapless would be dreamy with some extra gathers around the waist to really play up your curves.

Straight: If you have a boxy shape, you want to try and add curves. Color blocking suits would be great for you (try for a black band across the waist and colors on the top and bottom which will make your waist look tiny and your breasts look big). Cut-outs would work well here too, just try not to go overboard - just a little glimpse of skin.

All Over Round: Try incorporating all the elements. Go for a halter suit, with that added skirt on the bottom. Make sure it has some gathering in the torso area and if it is multi colored all the better!

Tip#2
Wraps Are Lovely.
They really are great for covering less attractive bits and they can add structure to your look. If you are heavier on the bottom go for a wrap that cascades off your hips, like a jacket wrap or cowl neck dress style. If you have wider shoulders a wrap that goes around your waist and brings attention to your hips is a great idea.

Tip#3
Know When To Use Colors and Prints.
They are great when used correctly, but if you get it wrong, it could be disastrous. Use a print or color to draw attention to a certain area. If you have a smaller bust and want to enhance it, get a printed/colored top half and a plain black bottom to match. If you have small hips and a large upper body, put emphasis on the lower half with a printed wrap or skirt and have plain colors on your top half. Once you figure it out, prints and colors will be your best friends.

Tip#4
Accessorize.
I know you probably think I am crazy, but for real – with any outfit you want to add a few things to beef up the look so why not a swimsuit- it is an outfit after all. When you are in the water, for sure, bathing suit only. But when you are lounging or eating lunch on the patio try to add a few things to beef up the look so people can see a full picture view, not just the suit. A bow tied bandanna, a heavy weight cuff, a statement making pair of sandals, and of course an elegant wrap or gauzy sweater to pull the look together. Don’t forget your amazing beach bag filled with goodies- magazines, sunscreen, water, fruit, and music.

Once again, confidence is all you need to have a good time. With these added touches, you will feel great and your energy will transfer to everyone you meet. As long as you are having fun and loving the day, everyone will be!

Here’s to a great summer!
xoxo
Stefanie

Shopping Guide:
PEAR SUIT
INVERTED TRIANGLE SUIT
CURVY SUIT
STRAIGHT SUIT
ROUNDED FIGURE SUIT
CASUAL COVER-UP
FANCY COVER-UP
BEACH BAG