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Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Choosing the right handbag for your size - then splurge without splurging

You probably don't give handbags the same scrutiny you give a pair of jeans: if a handbag is cute or fits your lifestyle then it works. But did you know that a handbag can flatter your shape almost as much as the right pair of jeans? Apply these easy steps to getting bag in proportion to your figure. It can not only knock off pounds visually (no kidding!), it'll polish up your style in a flash.

When you find a handbag for your shape etc etc, , If you want to look like you splurged, try Bag Borrow or Steal What a nifty idea. We'll keep your secrets secret. Try a new handbag every month- Chanel, Gucci, endi etc. Check them out for Chanel jewelry. Look like $10 million and let everyone try and keep up with you.

Shapes
Try to choose a shape that is the opposite of your body type.

If you are tall and thin, look for a slouchy, rounded hobo bag to compliment your figure.

If you're short and voluptous, play off opposites by choosing a handbag that is tall and rectangular or long and sleek (like a clutch). In general, the rounder your figure, the more structured your bag should be.

Great selection of handbags are available at Handbags from Zappos.com
They are known for shoes, but have a great selection of handbags. its worth checking out.

Anyway, finding the right handbag doesn't mean that you have to carry a hard box around to counterbalance your womanly shape: rectangular or square silhouettes in soft leathers or fabrics will do the trick.

If you are feeling a little PRADA or feeling a little splurge coming on- take a peek! Theres FENDI, ARMANI, BALENCIAGA and lots more.

Some popular shapes:

Hobo bag - A crescent-shaped shoulder bag.

Tote - An open-top bag with straps or handles.

Duffle - Tall shoulderbag, often with a wider opening on top.
Field bag - A flap-top shoulderbag with utility-type closure (buckles, snaps, etc).

Clutch - A small, handheld bag or a larger, geometric shape that is tucked under the arm.

Satchel- A large, handheld bag.

Baguette - Long and rounded shoulder bag resembling the namesake bread.

Messenger - A large, soft shoulder bag with long straps (often worn across the body).
Cigar Box - A small, boxy, hard bag.
Pouch - A soft, small bag.
Kelly bag - A classic Hermes style named after Grace Kelly; a large, structured handbag with distinctive hardware closures.

Think scale here: a woman who is 6 feet tall and a size 14 would look lost with a teensy hand-held bag. A petite size 0 would look overwhelmed by an enormous slouchy bag. A shoulder bag's length (where the bottom of the bag hits your body) will accentuate whatever part of the body it comes near. For example, a shoulder bag that ends around the hips will play up your hip width (the eye is drawn to the bag). Most women look great with a bag that hits mid-torso because it flatters the waist.

Thursday, November 15, 2007

The little black dress for your body type

Finding the perfect little black dress for yourself this holiday season should be a snap if you follow these simple guide lines.

Rule #1- Identify your body type. In order to get a little black dress that works for your body and your wardrobe, you have to understand what looks good on you -- a deceptively simple task.

Rule #2 - Identify your fabric. Go easy on the black dress made from matte jersey, make sure it fits, although that fabric is fluid and stretches for comfort (great for exercise pants), settle on a soft wool gabardine with a touch of Lycra that will hold its shape -- as well as yours.

For women with a more challenging body type, the best little black dress will be unstructured and of a fabric that does not drape (which means NO Lycra). The shape of this dress should be accented with individualized tailoring details, according to each woman's body shape.

Read What is your Silhouette? and identify your body type.

ALL BODY TYPES
"Thalia" Black Print Wrap Dress by Monif C is a dress that suits practically ALL body types.

This versatile dress from Monif C proves that being stylish can be comfortable! Created in a luxurious matte jersey and featuring a silk belt, you’ll feel like you’ve spent your day in your pajamas rather than at the office on on the town.

RECTANGULAR: You are shaped a little like a boy, with a longer torso that goes right into your hips. This shape -- in which the torso and hips are often in a straight line -- is usually accompanies by a broader shoulder . Tyupically non-existent waistline but great shoulders.

Solution: Show off your assets. You need to create the illusion of curves by picking a dress with a slightly empire shape. Look for details like a line (piping or stitching) about three inches (7.5 cm) under the bust. This will give you a waistline where there is none and naturally enhance your bust.

Black and Ivory Lace Dress by Faviana
Demure yet sexy, this little black dress from Faviana is the ideal party dress. The open pattern lace has a dressy look and feel while the ribbon tie gives the dress a fun and flirty feel.

HOURGLASS: You are a voluptuous woman, with a bigger chest, an indented waist, and a noticeable curve to your hips.
Solution: You will look best in an A-line dress that "grabs" your waist and flows out over your hips, accompanied by a fitted top with darts and a V-neck, which is particularly flattering to a larger bust line.

Black "Marilyn" Convertible Dress by Monif C

This is the DRESS of the season! The Marilyn Convertible Dress, inspired by vintage dresses, is your MUST have for the season! This dress ties many different ways (we’ve counted 22 so far) including as a halter dress, dress with sleeves, skirt, baby doll top, and every other way you can imagine. At our last fashion show, customers were even coming up with ways we never thought of!! You can wear this dress to one event and tie it a completely different way for your next event. No one will EVER know it’s the same dress! Get all 5 colors, buy one for your best friend and experiment different ways to tie it, you will love how this dress takes care of all your dressing needs this season!

TRIANGLE: You have wider shoulders and larger breasts with a torso that tapers down to an indented waist, slim hips and thin legs.
Solution: Look for a dress with a draped (perhaps even slightly blouson) top and fitted skirt that "grabs" you where you are slimmest: the lower half of your body.

Black Lace Long Sleeve Dresses by Tara Jarmon
The ideal dress to cover your arms elegantly. This feminine little black dress from Tara Jarmon is covered in lace and has all lace sleeves.

Black Stretch Metal Cocktail Dresses by Nicole Miller
Don’t wear that same old boring cocktail dress to your next event; wear Nicole Miller’s sexy fitted unique stretch metal dress. The contrast between smooth fabric on the sleeves and bust and the gathered hot metallic fabric from the waist down gives this dress edge and class. Wear this to your next party and grace everyone with your presence.

INVERTED TRIANGLE: (Pear Shaped) You have wide hips and a slim torso.

Solution: Your shape will be enhanced by a fitted top and straight skirt that is wider at the hip and falls straight (a "pipe" shape), unlike a pencil skirt that tapers at the knee.
A dress wit just the right amount of swing works wonders. Make sure the swing begins bfore the widest point of the hips.
Black and White Party Dresses by Lilly Pulitzer
This elegant cocktail dress from Lily Pulitzer is the ideal party dress when you want a dress that is sophisticated and not too revealing.

NEED A COAT?
Red Carpet Black Coats by Nanette Lepore
This is the ideal coat for the holidays. Give your outfit just the right finishing touch with this ruffle front coat.

Happy Entertaining and Socializing.!

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Plastic Surgery - Worth the risk?

I have always wanted to discuss plastic surgery and never quite got round to doing it. Now is as good a time following the death of Kanye West's mother following a routine breast augmentation and tummy tuck. (R.I.P)
She follows in the path of public figures who die from comlications resulting from plastic surgery.
The wife of the former president of Nigeria - Stella Ọbasanjọ died of complications from an operation at a private health clinic in the southern Spanish resort town of Puerto Banus, near Marbella, on 23 October 2005, where she had undergone plastic surgery and the late James Browns' wife Adrienne who died on 6 January 1996 in California from complications following plastic surgery.

Now, about Dr. Jan Adams, the plastic surgeon who performed the proceedures, I always thought he was (is) so good looking and smart. He hosts the Discovery Health Channel's "Plastic Surgery: Before and After" and, in the United Kingdom, "Cosmetic Surgery Live." He also is the author of "Everything Women of Color Should Know About Plastic Surgery."

He has been on Oprah and was a celebrated surgeon. Now, he is being crucified as expected.

When a public figure dies, you wonder how many regular people have died before that.
Stating the obvious - I am in the fashion business and know the value and importance of looking great. Not just good, but great. Then add to that, the glare of the camera and images that are transmitted in a millionth of a second round the world. This is what celebrities face but since when, did breast augmentations and tummy tucks become routine?

I have always fantasized about plastic surgery but was too chicken to decide what needed fixing. ( Somehow I suspect everything would)
Years ago, my sister and I discussed plastic surgery and she came back after research, gasping " Its surgery!!!!!!". I though she was very funny then but unfortunately, people do forget that this is surgery that requires anaesthesia, drugs etc.

Read Breast augmentation is also linked to suicide. and Awful Plastic Surgery

Bottom line is that it is still an individual choice, plastic surgery is still something you cannot rush into. If you're thinking about plastic surgery, find out as much as you can about the specific procedure you're considering and talk it over with doctors.

Once you have the facts, you can decide whether the surgery is right for you.

Stella McCartneys' one legged silver pendant? Ouch.

Heavens, I never really thought I would blog on celebrities, but I found this too amazing. Stella McCartney unveiled a $500 silver pendant of a single leg in Paris to fashion industry insiders last month. Is this edgy or just in bad taste?

Stella is the 36 year old daughter of Sir Paul McCartney, who is going through a publicly bitter divorce with Heather Mills, his second wife (Stella's mother Linda was married to Paul for 29 years before she passed away in 1998). Stella was never supportive of the marriage to Mills, and when they wed in 2002, she refused to design her wedding dress.
Read more

I truly do not care much for Heather Mills but..... you gotta love this level of bitchiness:)

Sunday, November 11, 2007

Best Jeans for you

Welcome to the Denim Fit Guide where we have sought out and organized all the very best brands and styles to suit every body type.
TRUE JEANS -Forever change the way you shop for jeans.

True Jeans does an amazing job of eliminating guess work in buying jeans. The right size. The right fit. For every body. Once you input your measurements and style preferences True Jeans will provide you with both size recommendations and a fit rating (based on a five star scale) for a number of possible pairs. It's personal, easy -and it works.

Never mind me, but I love these ankle jeans. Picture them with boots for fall, mules for summer and flipflops for casual. (I did not recommend flipflops now- did I?)

PETITE
Joe's Jeans Provocateur Petite Jean

That fabulous Joe's fit sized just for petite gals.Petite-fit, denim pant with a higher knee break to elongate the leg. 5 pocket styling and single button closure. Tiny pocket detail at back pocket and whiskering at front. Moderate distressing throughout. Boot cut.7" rise. 30" inseam.98% cotton/2% elastane.Dry clean or wash cold.Made in the U.S.A.

Denim designers create styles with specific body types in mind and the key to finding a perfect fit is understanding which styles are made just for you! Browse this helpful guide based on your shape for style suggestions that will flatter every curve.
Still Unsure? Our personal stylists are here to help! Email wardrobe.help@gmail.com with all your fashion quandaries. Read more

jeans

Personal Shopping - What a stylist can do for you.

Quick, what is your vision of personal shopper?

An American Express Gold Card. A chauffeur-driven town car. A rack full of designer dresses. These are the things you would think are the staples of a stylist's world. Sigh. If only it were so, but the truth is not nearly so glamorous.

No, here they are - the three essentials a stylist would be lost without are a good tailor, a steamer and good biceps.

Anyway, I digress, I just returned from a wonderful personal shopping trip with "M" and "S".

We had a blast - it always helps when the client has a sense of fun and will come out of the change room.

We bought an entire wardrobe for, in my opinion, mere pennies plus boots.

Now, I own her, for everytime I see her, she has absolutely no excuse not to look fabulous. Now, all she has to do is personalise the wardrobe. Put her own stamp on it and own her look. Work it!!! You are truly beautiful ladies- inside and out.

There are a few pants that need to be altered, sleeves that need to be shortened.

This may seem like a lot of work but all well-pulled together women usually have someone wielding a needle on their behalf.

Keep in mind that the person handling alterations at your local dry cleaners may not have the skill or the eye to make you look your best. A good test is to see how that person would handle a pair of pants that are too big in the waist: do they want to take in the pants just at the back seam (which may leave you looking bunched up at the rear) or will she add a couple of darts as well? And don't skimp on your tailor! A bad one can ruin something just as quickly as a good one can make something perfect.

Here's the equation -

Personal Stylist + Less clothing mistakes + Save you money = A gorgeous you.

See my pick - Best shoes, best bags, best coats best sweaters.

Next trip ladies, New York. Love you.

Monday, November 5, 2007

What? - Apparel for women who dont want to be called middle aged ...

They said Whaaaaat????
Clothes for middle-age women who don't want to dress like middle-age women." Could this be stating the obvious and exactly how do middle aged women dress?

Marketing to women of the baby boomer generation is a challenge for retailers, because many of these shoppers don't want to dress like traditional middle-aged women or shop in stores designed for that age group.
A number of retailers are trying to capture this market with new concepts: Bloomingdale's is launching a department called Quotation, which markets casual clothes for sophisticated mothers and female professionals, and Ann Taylor and Chico's are both planning new lines.

"Retailers are once again trying to target one of fashion's most elusive markets:
Is it me or are the clothing manufacturers and designers so far off base that you wonder if they have anybody older than 19 working for them? Click here to Watch the video.

How old is the sales girl? and the reporter? What a sell out!

I really find so much of this stuff insulting. Read more

But the fashion industry has struggled to appeal to such a broad consumer group, which ranges from traditional types who prefer flat shoes and ankle-length skirts to women who resemble characters from "Desperate Housewives."

Dear God,I think truly the term they should coin is boomerang. As in Boomer (okay you get it). I wasn't really going anywhere with that:). I know this group is very confusing as we all look so mahvelous but don't you think by now, that they should be getting it. After years of working in the store, this is what I know for a fact.

The average woman is size 4 and 22. Dont try to pin it down to one size.
The average woman is 4ft 10 to 6 ft. You cannot make this a science.
The average woman hates too much spandex in her clothes, because she thinks she has back fat.
The average woman does not like tight clothes because she thinks she has belly fat.
The average woman wants to look good and comfortable without feeling she has to go through a math quiz trying to figure out her clothing options.
The average woman wants knowledgeable sales staff - not teenagers selling clothing

Here's what Michael!!!!! had to say"Michael Fink, women's fashion director at Saks Fifth Avenue, says it's difficult for older women to figure out what's age appropriate, especially given the dizzying array of fashion brands available at every price level. "I am even overwhelmed when I go to the selling floor," he says. Poor Michael-he truly can relate.

It carries on:Younger models with long flowing hairstyles now appear in Chico's ads, along with middle-age models with shorter graying hair

This is my conclusion "Several retail initiatives are targeting a big-spending but tough crowd: boomer women" As long as they know that.

Please weigh in with comments. We'd love to hear from you.

In the meantime, read up on Stocks and Stilettos

Bloomingdales

Thursday, November 1, 2007

FALLS HOTTEST SHOES!!!

The Holiday Season is upon us - Get noticed in any of these absolutely gorgeous footwear.

A patent shoe - The Stuart Weitzman - Bowribbon (Black Soft Patent) - Women's: This perfect, adorable D Orsay will go great with that little black dress. Satin or soft patent leather upper with a chic vamp ornament. Peep toe design. Metallic leather footbed. Leather sole. Made in Spain. $295. Click to purchase.

A red Shoe... Memories of a glam Dorothy .
The rsvp - Justine (Red Patent) - Women's: A concealed platform comfortably accommodates towering height in this peep toe pump. Genuine leather or patent uppers. Padded footbed. Stacked high heel. Man-made sole. Impeccaby priced at $79.95 US. Click below to purchase.

A Leopard print. Combine two of falls greatest silhouettes. The wedge and a leopard print. Stuart Weitzman - Mercury-Wedge (Cognac Leopard Haircalf) - Women's: The statement boot of the season!; Leopard print haircalf boot on a patent leather wrapped wedge. Instep zipper. Leather lining. Brushed leather sole. Made in Spain.
$475.00 (Click below to purchase)

You can't go one holiday season without a glamorous crepe slipper.
Zappos.com is proud to offer the Beverly Feldman - Wanted (Black Crepe) - Women's:
The perfect skimmer for all your holiday parties. Satin or organza uppers covered with sequins. Fabric bow.
Leather footbed.
Stacked heel.
Leather sole.
Beverly Feldman Shoes in Crepe $170.95 ( Click below to purchase)

When you can absolutely not wear a heel.
The Lumiani - Gia (Black Patent) - Women's: A cute flat for all occasions. Patent leather upper; leather lining. Oversize bow embellishment on a pointy toe. Padded footbed. Flat heel. Leather sole. Made in Italy. $159.95 US- (Click below to purchase.)

Boots - Huge for fall
Type Z - LB (Black Leather) - Women's: Extra tall shaft height is accentuated by an adjustable flap and tie-up. Very soft genuine leather upper. Rear zipper for fuss-free on and off. Brushed leather sole. Flat heel. Great with leggings. Priced at $229.95. Click below to view and purchase.

These shoes have your name written on them.

The Betsey Johnson - Jada (Black) - Women's: Get noticed in this pretty and flirtatious sandal. Combination lace and leather upper. Delicate ribbon detailing with rhinestone and pearl accents. Elastic panel on sling strap provides a secure fit. Leather sole.