Posts filed under 'Women’s'
Q: I love white jackets/blazers, especially in the summer, but I always feel like I look like a doctor or a vet! Any advice? I’, 5′4" I usually wear a size 2-4P on top, but I am pretty curvy (32D), so I usually avoid cropped styles and jackets with more than 2 front buttons.
by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant
A: Sounds like you’re already on the right track. Since you’re curvy and have a full bust, you want to keep your neckline very open by wearing single breasted jackets in semi-fitted shapes. Like you already know, jackets with a single or double button closure are going to be your best bets. (Bonus points for jackets that button right under your bustline.)
And cheers for you for embracing the White Jacket. White jackets and blazers look fresh for summer, especially given this season’s focus on white. But how do you wear these white jackets without looking like an extra on Grey’s Anatomy? Here’s three ways to avoid the doctor look with a white jacket:
Go Feminine and Flirty with a Brightly Colored Top and a Pretty Skirt
To best flatter your figure, look for moderately low cut blouses and camisoles. The light fabric and open neckline will help to visually lengthen your torso and balance out your bustline. They’ll show enough skin to keep your chest from looking too top heavy, but they’ll also provide enough cover to avoid revealing too much. A splash of bright color peeking out from underneath your jacket will elevate your outfit while keeping the look flirty and playful (and non-doctor-like).
As for skirts, navy looks especially fetching with a crisp white jacket (for the same reason why dark blue jeans and a white shirt are an American classic).
Go Classic (with a Twist) with Black and White
Pair your white jacket with a black and white striped tank top. Narrow stripes are going to be best here; stripes that are too wide will overly accentuate your bustline. Add a skirt in medium grey, dark enough to provide contrast to the white jacket, but light enough to complement the white.
Go Casual-Yet-Tailored Look with a Sexy Top and Dark Jeans
Create a look that’s one part tailored and one part relaxed by mixing casual and formal elements. You can try toeing the line between casual and formal with a crisp white blazer, a sexy top, and a dark wash jean with a lean leg line. Be sure to add a very sexy, strappy black heel for added interest.
Have a great tip about how to wear a white jacket? Share it with us in the comments!
May 22nd, 2008
Q: I’ve been reading your site forever and have come to a conclusion: My wardrobe is BORING. I thought I was going for the "classic" look but I dress like a banker… and I’m not! I have a lot of plain slacks that I pair with plain "safe" sweaters. (The husband and I went dancing last night and I wore pinstripe slacks and a white sweater- yawn!) What can I do to jazz me up a bit? I’d like to look a bit more flirty and feminine.
A: Here’s three easy ways to add some pizazz to your wardrobe and look more flirty and feminine:
Get Creative with Layering by Mixing Casual and Formal Pieces
You don’t have to pair casual tops with casual bottoms and formal tops with formal bottoms. Part of the fun of creating an outfit is mixing and matching items that are casual and formal–and for that matter, cheap chic with more expensive pieces.
Take, for example, this casual black and white racerback knit top, whose All-American style would pair perfectly with a pair of dark blue jeans. Nix the jeans, and instead pair it with a gorgeously elegant black skirt. I love how the formality of the skirt elevates the look of the simple black and white striped top.
Play with Color
The easiest way to add more pizazz to your plain tops and bottoms is to inject a shot of color into your wardrobe. How do you do this? (1) Figure out what colors look the best on you. (You can do this in an afternoon at the mall by trying on lots of different colors and taking note of which ones make you look radiant–and which ones make you look washed out.) (2) Expand your wardrobe to include the colors that look great on you.
You don’t have to buy a bunch of color all at once. Building a wardrobe is like breaking in a new pair of heels–it’s best done in small steps. Add a few pieces a season, and your wardrobe will evolve with your ever changing sense of personal style.
If you’re hesitant about large splashes of color, you can try out color by layering it under more neutral colors, as seen in the outfit at right.
Anchor your Wardrobe with Statement Pieces
Statement pieces are, by definition, meant to turn heads. Maybe it’s your favorite slinky sweater, maybe it’s the dress that fits you to a T, maybe it’s your goes-with-everything satchel bag. These are the pieces that you can always count on to anchor an outfit. You only need a few of these statement pieces in your closet to start, but you can also never have enough of them.
For your classic style, try classics-with-a-twist. Instead of the plain white sweater, try one in bright yellow (which would be lovely with your menswear slacks). Or instead of plain flat-front pants, try a pair of navy blue sailor pants (which would look great with your white sweaters).
Pictured: Outfits from Club Monaco Collection and Cotton Cashmere Primrose Cardigan | $98 at J Crew.
Have a great tip about adding pizazz to a classic wardrobe? Share it with us in the comments!
May 20th, 2008
Q: I need some suggestions for professional interview outfits for the spring and summer weather for an office job located in Washington DC. I am in my 30s and a little top heavy with thinner hips and legs.
by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant
A: Between Washington DC’s conservative dress code, and the weather, which can be pretty hot and humid, you’ve got to strike a balance between keeping covered and keeping cool. We recommend traditional suits in lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton.
To flatter your figure, which is a little top heavy with thinner hips and legs, you’re going to want to create a long, lean line with your torso for balance. Look for lightweight suits with a soft, natural shoulderline and a high armhole. The high armhole not only looks cleaner and fits better, but it also helps create the illusion of a longer torso. A low, single button stance is going to be the most figure flattering for the same reason.
Your thin hips and legs make it easy for you to find flattering trousers and skirts. Almost any pair of trouser pants will work for your figure. As for skirts, try a nice pencil skirt that hits at just below the knee. Not only does it work with Washington DC’s conservative dress code, but it’s also going to be one of the most flattering shapes for you.
As for jewelry, I would keep with the traditional, conservative look with simple pearls or gold bangle bracelet. Complete your outfit with a comfortable pump in a medium high heel.
To add some visual interest to your look, you could invest in a dark green leather briefcase for interviews or a handbag in a surprising color. Best of luck with your interviews!
Have a great tip about business formal interview attire for summer? Share it with us in the comments!
Pictured: Wool Crepe One-Button Blazer ($225) and Wool Crepe Trouser ($130), both at J Crew. Flatiron Embossed Triangle Satchel ($238) at Banana Republic.
May 8th, 2008
Q: At 5′1, 110 pounds, and a size 32DD, I cannot find a dress that fits me correctly. Strapless dresses are impossible. I really need a dress that I can wear a bra with and that doesn’t show off too much cleavage.
A: For maximum figure flattery, we’d recommend a scoopnecked or v-necked dress that hits at knee-length. The neckline will allow you to wear a bra (and won’t show too much cleavage), and the knee length hemline will be especially flattering on your petite frame. Here’s Omiru’s top picks for figure flattering dresses for extremely curvy petites:
Our $$$ Picks:
Maggy London Cascade Front Chiffon Dress | $158 at Nordstrom
Isn’t this color simply gorgeous? The flowy fabric will drape nicely over your curves, though the hemline may need to be raised to knee length for maximum figure flattery.
Adrianna Papell Empire Waist Charmeuse Dress | $138 at Nordstrom
The color is great, as is the neckline. What we don’t like is the full blouson sleeves–which may be too much for your petite frame.
Our $$ Picks:
Calvin Klein Voile Party Dress | $118 at Nordstrom
This dress is great for a summery occasion, and the scoop neckline will work well for your figure.
Maggy London Silk Chiffon Halter Dress | $98 at Nordstrom
The halter neckline and the knee-length skirt are excellent for figure flattery.
Our $ Picks:
Lush Bubble Dress | $22.80 at Forever 21
The bubble skirt may help you balance out your figure…plus we love the gorgeous Jade color.
Ella Dress | $22.80 at Forever 21
Thanks to the cutout, this dress reveals ever-so-subtly. And the belted shape will help you naturally play up your curves.
Have a great tip about dresses for extremely curvy petite women? Share it with us in the comments!
May 2nd, 2008
Q: I have a black, medium-chunky-knit cocoon sweater. The only way I know how to wear it is with jeans and a solid-colored stretch v-neck long sleeved shirt underneath. How else can I wear it?
by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant
A: Cocoon sweaters and coats, though potentially unflattering, are surprisingly versatile to wear. The key to wearing them is to balance out the volume of the sweater with a slimmer silhouette on the bottom. This can be the jeans you described, narrow pants, or a slim-cut dress or skirt. The beauty of the cocoon sweater is that it’s such a distinctive style that you don’t need to enhance it with much flair.
One of our favorite ways to wear your cocoon sweater is to pair it with a jewel toned short sleeved dress, black tights, and ballet flats (pictured). This outfit also has the benefit of being figure flattering–because these clothes are body hugging, you won’t lose your shape in the sweater. Plus, the black tights keep the line of your look cohesive and clean.
Or for a fun evening look, add colorful elbow length gloves (bonus points for a striking color like french blue) and keep the rest of your outfit very simple.
Lastly, for a simple yet chic look, you could also wear leggings or a black short skirt with a simple t-shirt and throw on the sweater for some extra visual interest.
Have a great tip about how to wear a cocoon sweater or coat? Share it with us in the comments!
April 18th, 2008
Q: I am attending an engagement pool party. Since I live in a sub-tropic climate, it already feels like summer. How do I combine an outfit for an engagement party with one for a pool party?
by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant
A: Dressing for an engagement party and dressing for a pool party sound like wildly different things, but you can combine pieces from each one in order to create an outfit that works for both. When creating your outfit, your first order of business is to dress for a special occasion. Even though it’s a pool party, you want to dress in a way that respects the special celebration. Then, taking into account the climate (sub-tropic) and venue (a pool), you’ll tailor your outfit for fun–and swimming.
The base of your outfit will be your swimsuit. Choose a suit worthy of a special occasion–one with special detailing, such as arched cutouts or metal fastenings. On top of your swimsuit, add a sarong that’s pretty enough to serve as a cocktail dress–and large enough to cover your swimsuit in a sophisticated fashion. When you’re not swimming, wear a pair of strappy sandals (but carry an extra pair of flip flops in your tote bag).
Should the party be a more formal affair, we recommend a brightly colored, breezy dress over your swimsuit, paired with a sparkly necklace for an extra dash of formality.
Last tip? Don’t forget a pair of oversized sunglasses (oh so dramatic) and a bottle of sunscreen!
Have a great tip about how to dress up for a special occasion pool party? Share it with us in the comments!
April 8th, 2008
Q: What should I wear and where can I find clothes for a summer, European Honeymoon?
by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant
Rule One: Pack lightly. You’ll be traveling from city to city, and the last thing you’re going to want is to be weighed down by a group of giant suitcases. As with any trip, you’re going to want a good set of foundation clothes—basics—to mix and match. But since it’s Europe, and since it’s your honeymoon, you’re going to want some extra special pieces to make your outfit as radiant as you are. Here’s seven items to get you started with your honeymoon packing:
The Cotton Blouse
Antique Print Emily Blouse | $74 at J CrewStyle tip? Europe is not as well air conditioned as America—so you will want to wear light clothing.
The Sophisticated Sweater
BR Monogram Cotton Sweater Jacket | $85 at Banana RepublicCover up with a sweater with elegant details.
The Casual Tee
Striped Boatneck Tee | $19.50 at Gap
This breezy tee pairs equally well with walking shorts—or a pretty skirt.
The Walking Shorts
Martin Striped Bermuda Short | $49 at Banana Republic
Knee length shorts are not only practical, but they also tend to be the most figure flattering.
The Classic Skirt
Dark Chambray Swing Skirt | $85 at J Crew
You can pair this basic skirt with a variety of different tops (extra points for bright colors).
The Day to Evening Dress
Island Eyelet Short Dress | $185 at J Crew
This eyelet dress goes from day to evening—while exuding fun and flirtiness at the same time.
The Scarf
Embroidered Wrap | $69 at Banana Republic
A brightly colored scarf can totally transform an outfit.
A few other things to have in your bag? A pair of comfortable sandals, a good sized handbag, an electrical current transformer for your hairdryer and other gadgets, and a beautiful perfume that makes you feel gorgeous. And don’t forget your lingerie and a sexy nightie. Bon voyage!
April 3rd, 2008
Q: I am to be the featured artist at a gallery art walk in a city by the water north of Seattle. What do I wear? I want to look classy, yet artsy. I am 51.
by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant
A: At fifty-one, you fashion priority is to select a dress or suit that is not only sophisticated but also suits both your coloring and body type. For a classic yet artsy look, build your outfit with classic foundation elements. A little black dress is always appropriate—but if you dare, you may want to wear a splash of color.
- If you have an hourglass figure, try a sleeved wrap dress to accentuate your curves.
- To elongate a fuller figure, you can try a suit with a high stance (where the two lapels meet in front) and strong vertical lines.
- If you’re blessed with a long, lean figure, a colorful maxi dress may also fit the bill. A maxi dress gives you full coverage, and it also has a bohemian air to it.
Finish off your outfit with a pair of comfortable flats or low heels. You’ll be standing for hours, so choose a pair of shoes that will allow you to focus on the event—not your aching feet.
Style tip? After thirty-five, the color black tends to drain color out of a woman’s face. Should you choose a black dress, make sure to accessorize with colorful jewelry (or a scarf) and give yourself some extra color with your make-up.
Have a great tip about style in your 50s? Share it with us in the comments!
March 25th, 2008
Q: I just got a black fitted vest/waistcoat and I’m not sure how to integrate it with the rest of my wardrobe. I’m still a college student and I don’t want to necessarily look like I’m heading towards the office or anything. Is there a way I can wear this more formal piece while still looking young and casual?
by Tamiko Kelly, Fashion Expert and Style Maven at Margarite Elaine
A: Traditionally a men’s wardrobe staple, the fitted vest (aka the waistcoat) has migrated over to women’s wardrobes. This trend has been popularized over the last few seasons, and it still has a cult-like following. With this set, we wanted to show you how to give a young, hip/funky edge to a wardrobe staple.
The vest look on the left is based on a neutral palette. The result is at once sophisticated and youthful, right down to the silver-grey ankle boots. The vest look on the right, on the other hand, is all about personality. Note the use of color in this outfit: the reddish-purple color on the shirt is echoed in the shoes, clutch, and earrings.
Have a great tip about what to wear with a vest? Share it with us in the comments!
March 20th, 2008
Q: I will be turning 30 in April and have decided to celebrate by finding a signature scent to wear for the next decade. I do think perfume can add something special, but… a lot of places are becoming scent free, and I don’t want something that’s either overpowering or girly. How do I choose a scent, and is it considered rude to wear perfume these days?
by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant
A: At thirty, you should be looking for a complex and sophisticated perfume that reflects your personality and life experience. Select a perfume that speaks to your own unique personality—and one that doesn’t overwhelm you.
When selecting a perfume, consider your climate. Some scents are too heavy for the summer, and others are too light for the winter. Beyond that, we can’t tell you which perfume to choose—choosing a scent is very personal as each perfume has a different chemical reaction (and thus, a different scent) on each individual. Like we said in our article on cologne last week, we recommend experimenting by (1) finding scents that appeal to your senses, and then (2) seeing how the scent smells on your skin. One trick for clearing your nose from all the different scents (cleansing the palate, so to speak) is to carry coffee beans with you. Sniffing coffee beans will clear your nose from the scent of the previous perfume.
Great classics are usually a good place to begin, so try Robert Piquet’s Fracas, Chanel No. 5 or Coco by Chanel. For a non-overpowering, non-girly scent, you may also want to try the lush tuberose scent of Carnal Flower by Frederic Malle. A couple of my personal favorites are Annick Goutal’s Petite Cherie (which has pear and peach notes) and Jil Sander #4 (which is a little spicy).
As for your last question, it’s not rude to wear perfume–it’s rude to wear too much of it. Rule of thumb? If you’re riding in an elevator, your fellow passengers should only smell a trace of the perfume. Try a dab here and a dab there–or spray the scent into the air and walk through it.
Have a great tip about how to pick a perfume Or would you like to share your favorite scents? Share it with us in the comments!
Pictured: Petite Cherie by Annick Goutal (left) and Coco by Chanel (right).
March 13th, 2008
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