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

Stylin' Tip via FGG: Creative Ways to Cover-up

So the lovely ladies at The Fat Girl's Guide to Living asked me to contribute recently to their site by answering readers questions. This one is about how to cover your upper arms during these hot summer months!

Here's a taste: Getting a super cute stretch body suit with 3/4 length or short sleeves, preferably in something current and edgy. Lace is so in right now and would look great under solid colors and/or prints. With a print dress you can get a bit creative and do an 80’s vibe with a denim vest and colored leggings too.

You can read my advice on The Fat Girl's Guide to Living Blog. Hope you find the tips helpful. And make sure you browse through their site - lots of good tips to be had for sure!

Till next time,
xoxo
Stefanie

Stylin' VIDEO: Day to Night

Since we don't always have time to go home and change before heading out for an evening soiree, here are some tips on how to maximize your time and style!

The key to success with this transformation is planning. Make sure you bring a few key pieces to work with you in the morning and you will be all set for a night on the town.

Watch the video for the summary and read below for detailed tips on how to make your daytime look evening ready!



Tip #1
Remove The Bulk. One of the main differences between a daytime look and a nighttime look is skin. You want to show a little more of it in the evening so take off that blazer or sweater, remove those dark nylons (or add drama with some colored or lace tights), and pull your hair up showing more of your face and neck.

In the video I use a blazer/skirt combo as an example, but you can easily do the same thing with a blazer/pant combo. In that case, definitely add heels, still remove the jacket, and unbutton a few top buttons of your blouse, and add a dramatic necklace. Done.

Tip #2
Be Prepared. It helps to always have some evening essentials on hand at work (and at the very least, if you know you are going out at the end of the day, bring some things from home).

Some standards you might want on reserve:
-A dramatic lipstick (red is my favorite)
-blush (all yours will surely be worn off by the end of the day)
-A pair of heels or fancy dress shoes
-hairspray and a comb (you need to jazz up that hair before you go!)
-accessories (a dramatic necklace, some fun earrings)

Also, the entire transformation process should only take you about 5 minutes. The key here is quickness, so know what you want to add/take away in advance to speed up the process.

Tip #3
Have The Confidence To Try Something New. It is a great trick to try something out when you are in a hurry because you don't have time to second guess it. Once you are out and rockin' it, the compliments will come pouring in and you'll be wondering why you ever questioned it in the first place. A good place to start would be that hair accessory you've been putting off wearing or those new gigantic earrings.

So ladies, ready to plan your next after work dinner date or cocktail party? I certainly hope so!

Xoxo
Stefanie

Interview & Reviews!

Hey Ladies!  Just thought I'd let you know about some press I've been getting lately!

A few weeks back I was featured in NOW magazine here in Toronto.

And I just did an interview with Curvy Fashionista which is posted on her AWESOME SITE!

Our Bernadette Bow Front Dress was featured as Drool-worthy Dress of the Day on LIPS, HIPS, & FATSHION TIPS with Stiletto Siren. Yay!

Stay tuned for some awesome giveaways, sales, and a new Stylin' Video coming up in the near future!

xoxo
Stefanie

Stylin' Tip: Bra Fit Secrets

So I'm not really sure if these are "secrets" or not, but it always good to get a refresher, don't you think?

First of all, you don’t need to live in discomfort and you don’t need to be ashamed of your size- big or small we are all fab! So don't be afraid to get your bra fit professionally. I have had it done numerous times and I can tell you there is nothing to fear. If you choose a smallish bra boutique (avoid stores at the mall if at all possible), you will get the best service and the best fit.

Fitting a bra is complicated and I don’t want to freak you out here with too many details. What I do want to tell you about are some simple things that will help make the bras you already have fit better (and maybe even talk some sense into you and convince you to buy a new bra).

Here are some basic tips to get you started:

Tip #1
Trust The Underwire. I hear people complain about underwire often, and really, I don’t get it. Underwire is the best invention ever! It lifts and holds those ladies up! If you are having trouble feeling comfortable with underwire style bras, you definitely are wearing the wrong size. The wire should be just on the outer edge of your breast and should not be digging into you anywhere. (See photo Tip#1)

Tip#2
Pull Up The Straps! If you are wearing a bra everyday, there is going to be movement; In particular, movement in the straps. The straps are a great way to add extra lift and definition to your breasts. Check them and make sure you are at the maximum resistance level. (See photo Tip #2)

Tip#3
Make Sure To Pull Your Breast Into The Cup. This is a must- after you put on your bra, you must take your hand and manually ensure your breast is in the cup. It helps the bra sit flatter against your chest, gives you more cleavage, and is definitely more comfortable.

Tip#4
Never Wear A Sports Bra Outside Of The Gym. A sports bra is the devil. First of all, it obviously does nothing for the figure- it flattens, it shows the nipples, and it is so tight and bulky it makes it look like you have a log on your chest. I am of the mind that if you have a bra that fits right, you will never need a sports bra, not even for the gym. A good bra will hold you in, lift you up, and not bother you. Second, they are just uncomfortable. Do you really want a huge elastic band strapped to your chest making you all sweaty and leaving you looking like a man? I didn’t think so.

Tip#5
Always Wear A Bra. Listen, I know this may sound harsh and anti-feminist, but it isn’t, I swear. Without a bra, you look at least 1 size bigger than you are. Why? Because your breasts sag into your chest and meld with your stomach and create one large mass which is totally unflattering. It may be comfortable, but it is not appealing to the eye. The only reason I can see not wearing a bra is because it is uncomfortable; that only happens if you wearing the wrong size (both being too big or too small can cause troubles). With the right size, you won’t even realize you are wearing a bra and the rest of the world won't be distracted by your sagging chest.

Tip#6
Beware of the problems. If you are wearing the wrong size here are some of the clues and possible solutions:

The Bra Band Rides Up In The Back: Adjustment of the straps or getting larger cup/band size should help (See photo Tip #6 A)

The Bra Underwire Cuts In At The Sides: Try adjusting your cup size. You’ll most likely need a bigger one

The Centre Front Is Not Sitting Flat Against Your Chest,
There Is A Bulge Created In The Front Where The Edge Of The Cup Meets Your Skin, Or
The Bottom Of The Cup Is Not Sitting Flat Against Your Chest: Your cup size is most likely too small (See photo Tip #6 B)

There Is Gaping In The Cup,
The Band Is Sagging Or Loose, Or
You Just Can’t Seem To Get Any Lift: Your cup and/or band size is probably too big

So again, please don’t be afraid to get fit properly. It is actually a lot of fun and you will feel so much better after. Don’t forget, it is really important if you gain or lose weight that you get re-fitted. Your body is constantly changing and you may need to adjust your size from time to time. The good news is, if you are wearing a bra correctly you can look sizes smaller and feel a lot sexier in the process.

xoxo
Stefanie

Stylin' Tip: Give It a Try!

One of the phrases I hate to hear women say is “Oh, I could never pull that off”. Why not? I think women should take the leap and try blending current trends with their personal style. Don’t forget that the old cliché stands true: You never know unless you try!

Some tips to make it easier for you are below:

Tip #1:
Start Small. Work in one new thing at a time. Some cute earrings first, then a waist-belt, then a bow headband, then an awesome pair of heels. Week by week you can build to the look until you are confident enough to wear everything together (you can by the way).

Tip #2:
Know Who To Ask For Advice. If you are planning on wearing that feather hair clip for the first time, don’t ask the friend who hasn’t changed her hairstyle in 10 years if it looks good – it will only make you both angry. You need to find someone whose style you admire and who you don't feel competitive with. Don’t be afraid to ask that style maven at work how she does it or what she thinks of your look. Most people love to share their tips and also love compliments.

Tip #3:
Don’t Abandon Reason. A new look or accessory is great, but lets consider the time and place. A regular office workday might not be the appropriate time to show off the new fedora, but an evening dinner date - go for it!

Tip #4:
Fit Rules Still Apply. Don’t wear something if it doesn’t fit properly. Those short shorts that give you a muffin top and show a bunch of cellulite are not a good idea no matter how "of the moment" the style is. Clothing still has to fit and flatter you in order for it to look good.

Tip #5:
Don’t Get Theatrical. This is all about enhancing your look. If you are too bold, you could be screaming "look at my new accessories!" Try to think modern and not trendy and work within a comfortable color palette. Add style with a cute printed scarf and not an entire printed dress. As noted in point 1, work in small steps to achieve your look.

Tip #6:
Confidence is key. The only way you can wear anything is if you believe you look good in it yourself. You have to love it. You have to want to be wearing it. And trust me, if you believe it, others will too. Don’t be intimidated by all the stares you will be getting - it is because you look mega hot! Trust.

So try out that new item today and get ready to turn some heads!

xoxo
Stefanie

Shopping Guide:
Clip
Earrings
Necklace
Scarf
Shoes

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

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

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

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:

What This Girl Wants

When I decided to start my business, my main goal was to do something positive in a profession that is often considered vacuous.  Being a fashion designer is my passion, but I often feel like I am not doing enough good for the world- maybe I should have been a doctor or a social worker or even a chef. So when I finally made the decision to do this full time, I promised myself that I would make a difference in the lives of women. I would challenge perceptions of what it means to be “plus-size”. I wouldn’t produce clothing that would be tossed after 6 months. I would make one woman at a time feel good about herself by giving her quality; giving her clothes that actually fit; giving her style; giving her love. With those goals in mind I set a course to fashion success. Hopefully you are with me and along for the ride. I expect it to only get better from here!

It’s so exciting to know that people are paying attention! Below are some recent articles written about us:

Neet Magazine:
http://www.neetmagazine.com/blog/2010/02/16/stefanie-bezaire/

The Skinny on Fatshion:
http://theskinnyonfatshion.blogspot.com/2010/01/from-etsy-with.html

The Judgement of Paris Forum:
http://www.judgmentofparis.com/board/showthread.php?t=1747

Musings of a Fatshionista:
http://blog.musingsofafatshionista.com/post/339781033/190-just-launched-stefanie-bezaire#disqus_thread

Welcome to the New Blog!

Hello Lovelies! What a thrill it is to finally have this blog up and running!

So, to give you an idea of what my goals are for the blog, ultimately I want to inspire and inform all women on ways they can improve their look and their attitude with a few simple techniques. 

I think everyone gets bored of their look from time to time so I am hoping to infuse your everyday wardrobe with some amazingly pretty accents. The focus will be on do-it-yourself tutorials, styling tips and makeovers however I may throw in a press clipping or two here and there (fingers crossed!) for good measure.

I want to inspire and inform all women on ways they can improve their look and their attitude

So stay tuned…we have lots of exciting stuff in the works including how-to belts, the best hair bows, and easy-peasy alterations!

Until next time my sweets,
xoxo
Stefanie

 

P.S. This is a photo of me in my youth- a lover of ruffles from the start!