Q: I’m going to Southeast Asia for a month in September, and I know that I have to wear long trousers and if possible long shirts because of mosquitoes and the danger of malaria. I fear that with wearing long linen trousers and blouses I look either old (I’m 21) or like the stereotype tourist. Do you have suggestions for a fun and fashionable travel wardrobe for a Month in Southeast Asia?
by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant
A: I checked with a friend of mine in Hong Kong and she said that the heat and the bugs are horrendous. She tackles this situation by wearing sun dresses and covering herself in deet.
I do think that when you are young, linen can be unflattering, as it loses shape quickly and can make you look baggy. If you don’t find linen pieces that you like, I would recommend looking for clothes in cotton modal fabric. Cotton modal is wrinkle resistant and it’s also more form fitting. It’s a tradeoff of course–in the heat, form fitting clothes may not be as comfortable as looser fitting garments, but they’ll also generally be more flattering.
Personally, I think in very high heat nothing will be all that comfortable, so you may as well go for what looks best. But as you pack, make sure you include, at a minimum:
Dresses: Dresses are going to be cooler, and you can stay covered up with longer styles.
Blouses: Look for long sleeved shirts in lightweight fabrics.
Layering Tees: Again, lightweight fabrics are going to be your best bet.
Long Trousers: Natural fabrics like linen or cotton are going to be best.
Lightweight Sweaters: It’s going to be hot, but you can stay keep yourself covered up with a light sweater in a loose weave.
How to put your outfits together? You may be inspired by the actress Jane March in the movie The Lover. In this movie, the young woman exudes youth and sex appeal wearing a simple sleeveless black linen dress with a belt, kitten heel pumps and a man’s hat.
Final style tips? When you’re traveling in Southeast Asia, my number one tip would be to buy super strong bug repellent. Bug repellent will allow you more flexibility in choosing your clothes (so you won’t be limited to long sleeved blouses and long linen trousers). My second tip would be to underpack rather than overpack. You’re bound to find great (and weather appropriate) clothes while you’re traveling through Southeast Asia.
Pictured: Fitted Tie Neck Shirt | $48 at Gap and Tie Shoulder Dress | $54.99 (sale) at Gap.
Have a great tip about what to wear for a trip to Southeast Asia? Share it with us in the comments!
Posted by Trisha on July 24th, 2008 in Q&A, Ready Made Outfits, Shopping Guide, Women, Women's |
Our first designer spotlight highlighted an up-and-coming designer, Engineered Garments. This time around, we explore a company that has been around for awhile but has been rejuvenated by new designer. Patrick Robinson, who has worked at labels ranging from Armani to Target, is turning the GAP around. The GAP used to be that default store for shirts, chinos, and sweaters. But the GAP seems to have lost its swagger in recent memory. Is it back? Time will tell, but if Mr. Robinson keeps producing pieces like these, it just may.
The GAP Original Khaki | $44.50 at Gap
The first thing I notice about these khakis is the great fit. Mr. Robinson has created garments that fit so much better than they have in recent years. Slim, but not Ramones-skinny, these khakis are what you want; they’re trim but comfortable. I like them in “chino cedar.†And, in fashion right now is a short, soft break, such that the pants lie at the top of your shoe. It’s a casual look to be sure, so don’t wear it to the office on casual Friday unless your name is Thom Browne.
The Leather Bomber | $298 at Gap
Again, fit, fit fit. The slim fit is what makes this leather bomber jacket so stylish. Wear it as they do in Milan: slightly snug with a thin layer underneath.
Striped Pocket T | $19.50 at Gap
Bold stripes and a pocket. I love it.
Herringbone Blazer | $88 at Gap
Unstructured blazers are the epitome of that dressy casual realm of style. This two button navy piece is quite rakish, and I love the shirt it’s paired it with too (which, with its bold horizontal stripes, is very much in fashion right now). Check out the jacket details too. The herringbone pattern gives it something extra.
Flat Front Shorts | $24.99 (sale) at Gap
It seems Mr. Robinson’s most noticeable effect so far is the slimmer fit of the clothes. All the pieces suggested are closer to the body than you may be used to with GAP clothes. These shorts are no exception. Slim, cool, above the knee, and in a very summer shade of khaki—just how we like it.
Style Tip: GAP seems to be following in J. Crew and H&M’s footsteps by hiring a high-end designer to create a line for the label at a lower price point. Unfortunately, none of the Pierre Hardy for GAP boots are available online yet, but be sure to check back for them. The quality and design of Pierre Hardy at a lower price point is a great value.
Posted by Trisha on July 23rd, 2008 in Designer Profiles, Features, Men |
Yeah, we know that open necklines for a large bust aren’t anything new. But there’s a reason why fashion magazines, fashion columns, and fashion blogs keep emphasizing them: they work!
Our favorite type of open neckline is the wrap neckline. Not only does a wrap neckline work on almost any figure type, but the wrap silhouette makes your waistline appear smaller. And for women with a large bust, this cinched in waist emphasizes your beautiful hourglass figure.
How do you accessorize a patterned wrap dress? By keeping it simple. The general rule of thumb is the busier the pattern of your dress, the simpler your accessories should be. Here, we’ve kept things fresh with a coordinated (and yet not matchy-matchy) set of earrings and a necklace, a structured tote that’s at once casual and sophisticated, and a bright pair of orange flats that complement the blues of the dress.
Have a great tip about how to flatter a large bust? Share it with us in the comments!
Posted by Trisha on July 22nd, 2008 in Ready Made Outfits, Women |
We asked: Would you wear Giant Jewelry?
You said: Probably Not. A slight majority (57% of you) wouldn’t wear Giant Jewelry.
Style tip? If you’re going to wear Giant Jewelry, be aware of your own proportions. If you’re tiny, you’ll have to take extra care so that your jewelry doesn’t overwhelm your figure. Giant, chunky necklaces are on-trend, but oversized bracelets (like the cuff shown) are going to be easier to wear. Last tip? Make your Giant Jewelry the centerpiece of your outfit by displaying it on a plain canvas of simple silhouettes.
Next question: Espadrilles are a classic summer shoe, but this year, Gladiator Sandals are taking center stage. But what do you think? Tell us, would you wear Gladiator Sandals? Cast your vote on the sidebar!
Pictured: Rippled Antique Cuff | $6.80 at Forever 21.
Posted by Trisha on July 21st, 2008 in Trend, Trend Predictives, What's In and What's Out, Women |
Whether you’re in your 20s, 30s, 40s, or 50s, you can enjoy this summer outfit–the perfect getup for Sunday brunch, strolling on the boardwalk, or shopping with the girls. Why does it work for everybody?
Simple Shapes
The tunic is the epitome of summer style. What makes this tunic special is the semi-fitted shape and the ever-so-slight flared sleeves. Cropped pants work for those with long, lean legs. For the rest of us, try knee-length shorts or a breezy pair of full-length pants.
Classic with a Twist Styles
A tunic is classic, but the eyecatching green and white print gives it a special twist. Similarly, the simple handbag has an extra kick because of the burnt orange color.
Should you want to make this outfit a little more trendy, try substituting the white espadrilles with a jeweled sandal or an edgier gladiator sandal.
For a more casual look, swap out the burnt orange handbag with a straw or canvas tote bag and the bracelet for a natural wood cuff.
What’s your summer go-to outfit? Share it with us in the comments!
Posted by Trisha on July 18th, 2008 in Ready Made Outfits, Women |
You loved our finds at American Eagle’s sister store Martin + Osa, but in the words of Jennifer, "Oh, it’s all SO gorgeous, but so expensive too!" But now, with Martin + Osa’s summer sale, you can get all of the gorgeous–but at significantly reduced prices (up to 60% off in some cases). Here’s what we just bought from Martin + Osa’s summer sale:
Canvas + Patent Leather Belt | $14.95 (sale) at Martin + Osa
Scoop Neck Sweater Dress | $34.95 (sale) at Martin + Osa
Tretorn Perforated Leather Sneaker | $44.95 (sale) at Martin + Osa
Oh, and you can use coupon code 63299191 at checkout for an additional 20% off. Happy shopping!
Posted by Trisha on July 17th, 2008 in Shopping Guide, Women |
Who says watches have to be all gold, diamonds, and leather? Chicago-based ToyWatch challenges you to think differently; think nylon instead of calf or alligator skin bands, plastic instead of gold or sterling silver cases, and, as is the case with their newest collection, neon-bright colors instead of more subdued offerings.
These Italian-designed watches from designer Marco Mavilla are crafted after high-end watches, but sell at more affordable prices—most watches are in the $200 to $400 range—exactly the kind of steal we love here at Omiru.
The magic of these watches is that they resemble high-end luxury watches, but you never get the feeling that they are just cheap knock-offs. Jazz is to music as ToyWatch is to watches. Like jazz artists, who take already written pieces and employ tropes to make the music their own, ToyWatch takes classic timepieces and uses new and interesting materials and design elements to make them unique.
Mr. Mavilla designed his first ToyWatch in 2006, and just two years later, they have caught fire, especially among L.A. celebrities. It could very well be that ToyWatch will be the next Swatch.
Brown Sports Watch | $255 at Barney’s New York
At first glance, this piece, the result of a collaboration between Men’s Vogue and ToyWatch, looks like an expensive luxury watch. The band is a grosgrain ribbon, and the subtle rose gold finish on the casing is absolutely perfect. Subtle and refined, you could wear this piece for almost any occasion and it would look great. I love this watch. Limited to 200 units; a steal at $255.
Crystal Watch | $175 at ToyWatch (left) and Rolex Perpetual Submariner from GQ (right).
This is the quintessential ToyWatch. The case and bracelet are both made of a clear acrylic. And at 38mm, the size is just right. And, while it is not explicitly stated anywhere, this piece was modeled after the classic Rolex Oyster Perpetual Submariner; just look at the resemblance!
Ceramic Watch | $950 at ToyWatch (left) and Chanel J12 from TimeZone (right).
A piece from ToyWatch’s high-end line, this watch is just beautiful. The entire thing is ceramic, which gives it a sleek, modern look. Best of all is its durability: it’s virtually scratchproof. It reminds me of the Chanel J12.
Strong Watch | $385 at ToyWatch (left) and Panerai Watch for Ferrari | $6400 at GQ (right).
Featuring a black rubber band with stainless steel buckle and a silver dial and bezel, this bold piece is another stunner. The shape of the case and face make me think of those beautiful Panerai watches.
Mother of Pearl Chrono | $275 at ToyWatch (left) and Breitling Navitimer | $6,425 at Mens Watches Guide (right).
Nothing says “man watch†like a chunky chronograph. I like this piece here, with its mother of pearl dial. It looks similar to a Breitling Navitimer, no?
Style Tip: ToyWatch’s website has a nice little glossary of watch terms that appear frequently throughout the ToyWatch site. Remember, the informed buyer always makes a better purchase.
Posted by Trisha on July 16th, 2008 in Designer Profiles, Features, Men |
Today, we’re taking a break from our regular fashion advice to spotlight an excerpt from a very smart reader comment on our Figure Flattery Guide: What to Wear to Flatter a Large Bust.
“The trouble with formulaic rules is that they are in conflict with the uniqueness of each person’s body and so are completely unreliable. Better to do as the Europeans do - dress from your heart and your increasing knowledge over time about fabrics, colour tones, textures and drape (how a fabric hangs). Find the styles that suit you by trying on everything until you know what principles - not rules - apply to your unique shape.â€
-Beverley
Beverley is questioning the "rules" that we provided to flatter a large bust. And she’s right–the advice we shared was not meant to be rules to be taken as law. Rather, we intended for you to take the advice as a guideline.
It’s our philosophy that you should dress based on your holistic body type, instead of merely concentrating on one part of your body (e.g. large bust, short legs, etc). Furthermore, only by trying a bunch of stuff on (yup, trial and error) do you find out what really works for you–-for silhouettes, for fabrics, and for colors.
Please take our advice as a starting point in your fashion exploration. Your body will change over time, as will your tastes, and as will fashion. Excuse the cliche, but finding what styles and colors work for you and what doesn’t–it’s a journey, not a destination. So get out there–try stuff on, both items in your closet and new items in stores. Find what’s right for you. And please continue to share what works (and what doesn’t) for you with the rest of the Omiru community!
Cheers,
Trisha and the Omiru Team
Posted by Trisha on July 15th, 2008 in Men, Women |
We asked: Would you wear big shoulders?
You said: Overwhelmingly, no. Only 9% of you were for big shoulders, with the rest of the 91% against.
Style tip? Big shoulders are very 80s, and probably not in a way that we’d like to relive. But–you can hint at the big shouldered trend with blouses and shirts with ever-s0-slight pouf sleeves. But be careful. A little bit of extra fabric poufing at the shoulder point on a short sleeved shirt can be flattering (especially on those of us with heavy upper arms), but if that pouf is too big, the look goes from flattering to frightening. Note that if you have broad shoulders, even the small pouf is something to stay away from. The ever-so-slight pouf works best on those that have narrow shoulders.
Next question: First it was handbags that appeared to be on growth hormones. Now it’s jewelry that’s growing oversized. But what do you think? Tell us, would you wear giant jewelry? Cast your vote on the sidebar!
Pictured: Short Sleeve Collarless Textured Blouse| $64 at Banana Republic.
Posted by Trisha on July 14th, 2008 in Trend, Trend Predictives, Trendscape, What's In and What's Out, Women |
Thanks to Gossip Girl, preppy looks are in. Not only preppy, but upscale preppy, as befitting for the Upper East Side. Think blazers. Think vests. Bows, ruffles, and argyle. Think pink. Here’s how to get the look:
Posted by Trisha on July 11th, 2008 in Trend, Trendscape, Trendscape, What's In and What's Out, Women |
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