Stylin' Tip: Holiday Dress Up Time!

What a perfect time of year for some outfit Stylin’ Tips! Below I’ve shown an item from our collection and mixed it with accessories to show you how much potential a single piece can have!

Lunch With Friends!
At this time of year there is a lot of catching up that happens, isn’t there? Some of my friends I only see once or twice a year and I know I want to look my best when I meet them. How about this outfit? Jeans and a tee make it relaxed. Keeping the colors neutral make it sophisticated. And adding a punch of red around the neck makes it fun! The trick is to find boots that are fashionable, but also work well with a slippery snow lined street. These ones are perfection I think!

[caption id="attachment_566" align="aligncenter" width="495" caption="BAG: Hoibo NECKLACE: Biko BOOTS: Rachel Comey BELT: Aldo JEANS: Torrid"][/caption]

Dinner Date!
Usually there are a few dinners that happen around now – either a date, a girls night out, or a family outing. Try something like this – modern, chic, and very figure flattering. The perfect time to try out a new pair of colorful shoes or a fancy purse! The key to this outfit is keeping your dress and tights neutral and adding colour with the accessories. Try some lace tights! They are the perfect compliment to this look.

[caption id="attachment_567" align="aligncenter" width="495" caption="NECKLACE: Biko SHOES: Irregular Choice PURSE: Betsy Johnson"][/caption]

Family Party!
Most Family Soirées happen indoors so I find I try to coordinate my outfits with slippers. I LOVE slippers. Especially these ones – they look like ballet flats but are more comfortable in the house. When you are chasing the kids or doing the dishes, you want to look stylish but still feel at ease. Try this look – you’ll be getting compliments all night and only you’ll know how easy it was to throw together!

[caption id="attachment_568" align="aligncenter" width="495" caption="NECKLACE: Tweak BELT: Aldo SLIPPERS: Isotoner BAG: Hoibo"][/caption]

New Years Fete!
This is a night to make a statement! Ring in the New Year with style. Whether you are going out to a party or having an intimate dinner for two, you should choose something that makes you feel good about the year ahead! What’s a better way to start than to receive accolades all night for your beautiful dress? For this night especially, don't forget an elaborate hairpiece to accent the look! This one from Bando is extra special!

[caption id="attachment_569" align="aligncenter" width="495" caption="HAIRPIECE: Bando BELT: Torrid PURSE: Betsy Johnson SHOES: Rachel Comey"][/caption]

Whatever you do, and whatever you decide to wear, make it memorable and have a fantastic time!

Happy Holidays!
Xoxo
Stefanie

SHOPPING GUIDE:
Aldo
Bando
Betsy Johnson
Biko
Hoibo
Irregular Choice
Isotoner
Rachel Comey
Torrid
Tweak

The One of A Kind Show: Part Two

So! I am 4 days in - 2 days to go and I am so pumped! I have already met so many great people and I am looking forward to seeing many more! We've been getting such great feedback - It definitely puts a smile on my face.

Just today we've also added some great pieces to our line-up: The Lucy Floral Blouse and the Stella Scoop Dress in Denim!!

[caption id="attachment_548" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Our leggings all packaged pretty! A great gift!"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_553" align="aligncenter" width="1000" caption="These are two of my favorite tops!"][/caption]



We hope to see your lovely faces at the show in the next two days! Remember we are at booth N-36

The One of A Kind Show: Part One

WOW! Less than one week to go for OOAK! It has been busy busy busy around the studio the past few weeks and I am getting really excited to see how everything is going to come together!

If you want to stop by to see the new collection... and me (I'll be around to give styling tips in person if you like!) I'll be at Booth N-36. Its right down the centre aisle across from the Christmas Tree and the Main Fashion Stage. So thrilled to see my clothes walk down the runway!!

Here is a coupon!
[caption id="attachment_516" align="aligncenter" width="450" caption="Just click the photo and enter the promtional code ADysqrm to get $3 off!!"][/caption]

While you are at the show be sure to visit my talented friends!
Avril Loreti: Modern Home Decor
CBE- Clothing Brand Experiment
Joy Apparel
Krystal Speck Ceramics
Wildhagen Hats

Just a reminder - I am only at the show the last 6 days: November 30th - December 5th!!

So hopefully I'll see everyone there! After all this maddness is over I plan on resuming my regular pace of weekly Stylin' Tips and Looks for your enjoyment!

xoxo
Stefanie

Fall Preview

Check out this sneak peek of all our Fall Fashions!

This season we have added some great new fabrics to our line up of Organic Cotton & Bamboo. Be on the look out for Recycled Polyester, Tencel, Linen, Silk & Wool. More colorways and prints to come!

The collection will be available for purchase online by the end of the month and featured at the One of a Kind Show in Toronto -- Booth N36! I'd love to see you there!!

[caption id="attachment_423" align="aligncenter" width="460" caption="Angled Scoop Neck Tee & Lace Tights"][/caption]

 

[caption id="attachment_426" align="aligncenter" width="460" caption="Slouch Top & Pleated Pants"][/caption]

 

[caption id="attachment_427" align="aligncenter" width="460" caption="Floral Bow Blouse & Tencel Skirt"][/caption]

 

[caption id="attachment_429" align="aligncenter" width="460" caption="Stretch Sweetheart Top"][/caption]

 

[caption id="attachment_430" align="aligncenter" width="460" caption="Stefanie Signature Dress (In Ikat Print - YES!)"][/caption]

 

[caption id="attachment_431" align="aligncenter" width="460" caption="Scoop Neck Dress"][/caption]

 

Hope you Like!
xoxo
Stefanie

The Boring Work

Hello!

So I apologize for my lack of blog posts lately, but life has been pretty hectic over here at the Stefanie Bezaire Studio. After we found out we were doing The One of A Kind Christmas Show, production went into full force which left little time for anything else.

Today however, I am playing catch-up - doing as much paperwork and management duties as humanly possible in the next 10 hours. Here is a snapshot of my workstation:




At least I get to eat goodies and drink coffee. I made a batch of pumpkin donut muffins last night – with a cinnamon sugar coating they can’t get any tastier!



Wish me luck!
xoxo

Stylin' Look: Lady Lumberjack

So today really felt like fall. It's labour day, the kiddies are getting ready to go back to school, and I had fleeting thoughts of pumpkin carving and thanksgiving dinner. What a great day then to wear some buffalo check menswear and bright red tights!



I also recently made this cute black rose headband that couldn't have been a better match for this look - the weightiness of the feminine flowers mixed with the rugged shirt is really what makes it work.



And don't forget to always add that splash of colour! The red tights really work here with the neutral brown shoe.



You may remember this shirt from the Stylin' Video "RAIDING YOUR PARTNER'S CLOSET". It works well here tied at the waist, paired with a pencil skirt, don't you think?



Check out more of my looks on Chictopia!

More fall looks to come! Get ready for some major layers, boots, scarves, and of course some elaborate headwear!
xoxo
Stefanie

Stylin' Look: Downtown Nautical

Who says you have to be on a boat to wear deck shoes! My new favorite accessory for summer (and will be for fall) are these little numbers. I am also in love with my new chambray bow-tie blouse! And of course we need the braided navy belt to tie it all together.

Sadly there was a bit of rain this day, but it didn't stop us from having some fun!
A matching umbrella was all the look needed to keep looking chic even in the storm....it really is the little details that make all the difference!

Check out more of my looks on Chictopia!

xoxo
Stefanie

Stylin' Look: 1 Shirt, 3 Ways

I recently discovered the website Chictopia thanks to my wonderful sister over at Rare Treasure. Essentially it is where people can share their stylish looks and everyone gets inspired. I am new to the whole process, but I have a few photos up that perhaps you'd like to check out?

I hope to update My Chictopia and my blog regularly with these looks so you can get an idea of what I wear everyday and get inspired too!

For this look, I took one of my new tops for fall and mixed it 3 different days - work, weekend, evening.

Work: The shoes make it slightly nautical, but I didn’t want to go over the top with that theme so I kept everything else really basic. My only accessory here is my white waist-belt (gotta love those figure flattering belts!). I think keeping things simple sometimes makes the most impact!

Weekend: I wanted to go casual chic so I mixed up the colors and textures. You may not think you can do brown, black, and blue all in one outfit but I think it worked out lovely. Making sure there is a piece that combines all the colors (in this case the printed scarf) really helps.

Evening: I wanted to dress it up and take it into evening. I tucked it into a short gathered skirt, added some heels, and topped it off with a cute red hairpiece. Also, I love when red lipstick becomes an accessory!

So I hope you like those ideas and there will be more to come soon!
xoxo
Stefanie

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

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