An Unexpected Pattern in Today’s Outfit…Mixed and Matched for Public Speaking

I recently joined Toastmasters to practice and improve my speaking skills. This morning, I gave my second speech as a member and wanted to make sure that I could hold my own at the front of the room.

In general, I am happy with how this skirted outfit came together.  A few potential improvements noted below:

• Skirt – Ann Taylor LOFT petites, sateen cotton, lined.  I never dreamed I would like this type of print – it reminds me of the wallpaper in one of the bathrooms in my parents’ old house – but I had to buy this skirt.  The box-pleat in the front gives it a great a-line shape, which I feel is really flattering.  I have worn this year-round for dressier days/occasions.  This skirt hem hits me exactly where I want it to – a smidge above the mid-point of my  knee-cap.
• Top – Ann Taylor petites, silk.  Despite being a petite size, this top with tiered layers of with around the neck, is really long.  It’s been YEARS since I tucked in a top for many reasons, but today, I felt compelled.  I love the muted turquoise color.
• Jacket – Ann Taylor LOFT, petites, sateen cotton.  I wore this jacket more for the shape than the warmth.  With a silk top that has no structure, I needed something stiff to give me some curves at the waist.  And yes, I think that this navy coordinates great with the blue shell and black/off-white skirt.
• Belt – Macy’s, woven metallic.  If I could change one thing, it would be where the belt is placed.  When it’s down this low on my petite height, it doesn’t help create an illusion that I have long legs.  That said, I like mixing this color and texture in to the outfit.
• Necklace – this is a cute necklace that I got for Christmas.  (Sherry – if you’re reading and don’t mind, can you tell us what jewelry company you represent?)  I wear it to dress up casual outfits and as an accent piece for more dressy outfits.  It lays nicely over the layered top.
• Shoes – Zappos, Anne Klein.  They’re a dark ruby red patent and I love how they go with so many things.  They have a 2″ wedge heel which is perfect for a bit of walking and they’re incredibly comfortable.
• Tights – Target.  Not my favorite tights because the “pattern” makes me think of a skin disease, but I needed something and wanted a nude look to keep the outfit tone light.

Make sure to check out SummerOfDresses.com to see women share their dress and skirt outfits.  Everyone can participate!

If you want help putting outfits together – for every day or special occasions, Fabuliss can help!  Contact me at hello@fabuliss.com with style questions or for more information.

Capris, Part 2…Shop For These, Not Those

Thank you to Fabuliss blog reader, Lynn, who asked for ideas about where to find more flattering capris with flare.  I suggested this flared style in a previous post, where I showed off my own capris.

In general, capris will be more flattering when they mimic the shape of the leg.  A tapered, a relaxed fit or a balloon-like fit with a cinched bottom will not flatter nearly as much as a fitted capri.

Additionally, if the shape follows the curves of the leg, length should not be an issue.  They can be short or to the ankle.

And make sure that the capris are just as flattering from the side as they are from the front.  They should show the shape of the leg and not straight lines or an upside-down triangle.

Before you see some great examples of capris, let’s look at examples of what capris to stay away from, and why.

Note: these comments can be applied to all types of crops and capris – from dressy to athletic.

Avoid: Too baggy or too tight

Neither of these looks is flattering regardless of whether you’re a size 0 or a size 20.

• On the left, this is the equivalent of a mom jean with the high waist, tucked in shirt and non-existent leg curves.
• In the middle, this relaxed, slightly tapered look (classic JJill) looks sloppy and implies a march larger shape.
• On the right, you can see that too tight – especially in a light color – is a disaster.

Avoid: Too much.  Period.

Again, it doesn’t matter what size you are.  If there’s too much happening, it just doesn’t work.

• On the left, all the ties and extra material make the skinny model look like she has no shape.
• In the middle, the whiskering and fading, plus the shapeless leg, is a classic case of people seeing your clothes and not you.
• And on the right, all the stitching plus small pockets and a strange length does not flatter.

OK, now that we’ve reviewed what doesn’t work, let’s look at some fine examples of what does work for regular, petite and plus sizes.

Do: Casual denim

These denim examples show off those gorgeous legs!  Dark denim with minimal styling/embellishment is always preferred for a universally more flattering look.

Pair these (and all capris/crops) with a wedge heel to give your curves even more shape – especially your calves.  If you’re buying stretch denim, always opt for a tighter fit in the seat and thigh because they’ll stretch with wear.

• Regular: CJ by Cookie Johnson ‘Mercy’ Crop Jeans (Cosmos Wash), Nordstrom, $117
• Petite: Style & Co. Petite Jeans, Tummy Control Bling Capri Rinse Wash, Macy’s, $44
• Plus: Tommy Hilfiger, Cropped Angela Wash, Macy’s, $69.50

Do: Colorful casual

If you’re looking for a lighter fabric than denim, try a casual capri in a color.  Look for fabrics like poplin or a lightweight stretch cotton.

A metallic or colored sandal or peep toe wedge works well with these color and white options.

• Regular: Not Your Daughter’s Jeans Tummy Tuck Capri Jeans, Nordstrom, $79
• Petite: DKNY Petite Jeans, Soho Cuffed Capri White Wash, Macy’s, $49
• Plus: Pedal Pushers with Asymmetrical Cuffs, Lane Bryant, $49.50

Do: Dress it up

Capris can be a great summer alternative to pants (if acceptable in your workplace) and a more casual alternative to skirts.

Despite all of these examples being black or navy, a dressy capri can also come in a color like white or green.  Look for fabrics like sateen cotton, linen/silk blend or wool crepe.  You want them to drape nicely while showing off those fabulous curves!

Pair them with a pump or heeled sandal to top off the dressy tone.

• Regular: Exclusively Misook Button Detail Crop Knit Pants, Nordstrom, $230
• Petite: Lauren by Ralph Lauren Aglaia Stretch Sateen Ankle, Macy’s, $69.50
• Plus: Style & Co. Skinny Cuffed Capri, Macy’s, $52

If you need help picking out capris, pairing them with the rest of your closet or help building your summer wardrobe, Fabuliss can help!  Learn more at Fabuliss.com, where you can sign up for special offers via the eNewsletter, or contact me at hello@fabuliss.com.

Redefining “The Little Black Dress” with Drop-Dead Red

This post is inspired by friend and client, Kate, who looks amazing in her red dress.  She found the dress on her own, shortly after having a Fabuliss party and discovering she needed color!

As you think about what you’ll be wearing to this spring and summer’s weddings, nights out with the girls, dinner dates, etc., consider colorful alternatives to the little black dress.

With that in mind, a few considerations for the cocktail hours:

• Satin is tricky.  I tend to steer clear of it with dresses, shoes and bags as it feels a lot like wedding dresses and prom.
• There can be a fine line between “wow!” and “oh em gee” in terms of the impression you’re making.  If you are ever in doubt, simplify by not going overboard.
• If you want something to cover up the shoulders, try a wrap with metallic threads or something to give it some dimension, texture and elegance.
• Clutch purses are “in” and are a much prettier alternative to a tiny bag on a ridiculously long and skinny strap.  Make sure it’s a clutch you can hold or put under your arm.
• Metallics are neutral.  To distinguish between bridal (as in bridesmaid) and cocktail, stick with darker shades and opt for less strappy.
• Your shoes should be comfortable enough to consider dancing in, your dress should be long enough to sit down and cross your legs in and your other accessories should enhance who you are.

1) THE CLASSIC

This is a great choice for a wedding because it’s elegant and you won’t be accused of stealing the show from the bride.

Each piece says “classic” with its shape, simple lines and traditional elements.

I like a clutch that contrasts with the color of a dress and has a little something…otherwise what’s the point?

Shop these items: petite dress (Talbots, $169.00), regular dress (Target, $24.99), plus dress (Donna Ricco, $148.00), peep-toe pump (Endless, $58.90), floral clutch (Endless, $38.00), 18″ chocolate pearls (Target, $19.99)

2) THE SIZZLER

Be prepared for a night on the town and/or a very hot date with a little plunge that hugs (or helps create) the curves.

The accessories are rock-n-roll to take add definition to the sizzle.  You could also opt for classic accessories.

With this look, be careful to ensure the “girls” are properly secured, where they should be and not falling out of the top of the dress and make sure the hemline is age-appropriate.

Shop these items: petite dress (Jones New York, $101.99), regular dress (Zappos, $180.00), plus dress (Macy’s, $59.00), peep-toe pump (Endless, $99.00), studded clutch (Endless, $61.09), layered necklace (Forever 21, $8.80)

3) THE SOPHISTICATE

Sophisticate, to me, is based on classic shapes and lines with a special twist and a level of elegance that classic can’t compete with.

This is what you wear to a formal wedding (in the evening), the fancy restaurant and opera date and/or when the significant other’s boss decides to have a dinner party.

With this look, it’s all about special details without going over the top.

Shop these items: petite dress (Chadwicks, $79.99), regular dress (Nordstrom, $148.00), plus dress (Kiyonna, $108.00), peep-toe pump (Endless, $143.15), box clutch (Endless, $115.00), rhinestone and stud necklace (BCBG MAXAZRIA, $78.00)

Lastly, I will confess to owning a little black dress that I was excited to finally find at age 37.  That said, I have yet to wear it as I’m having too much fun with color!

Fabuliss can help you with your spring and summer wardrobe – for special occasions and every day.  Go to Fabuliss.com for more information.