Let's Talk Fashion

10 SUPER Secrets to Keep You Stylish

nospam@example.com (Jennie P) — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 10:43:56 -0800

Ever wonder how the Supermodels look so effortlessly chic every time the paparazzi catch them on an ordinary day? Supermodels get inside tips from style experts to keep them flawless…consider yourself a Supermodel.

1. Layer Your Look. Try pairing a long-sleeve thermal underneath a tunic and belt it with leggings. Add a jacket and legwarmers to be extra haute.

2. Designer Accessories. Most people can’t afford to wear head-to-toe Chanel. Accessorize your ensemble with a designer purse or sunglasses. You’ll look and feel like a million bucks and no one will notice your outfit is last season Gap.

3. Denim & High Heels. Wear a dark denim wash with black or brightly-colored heels. High shoes make your legs look longer and slender, plus you’ll exude that chic factor.

4. Audrey Affect. You can never go wrong with a little black dress and layers of pearls – a quick fix to create an iconic look.

5. Red HAUTE Lip. Some people fear red lipstick...however there are hundreds of shades to choose from to compliment your skin tone. Hit up a makeup counter and ask a beauty consultant to help you find the right red.

6. Leggings are the new Tights. The trend of the moment is leggings, which is like wearing sweat pants that hug your body. You can wear leggings under tunic tops, dresses, and layered underneath denim or mini skirts.

7. Patent leather - the texture of the season. Get a pair of heels or purse to be in the NOW.

8. The Trench. This signature coat can keep you looking your best, regardless of what you’re hiding underneath.

9. No Smoking…It’s no longer chic. Quit immediately if you are still puffing away.

10. Find a Mentor. I know you want Tim Gunn, but he is really busy. Find someone at your immediate disposal who exudes style and get some hints from them!

Jennifer Petrini is a freelance writer & fashion show producer from Pittsburgh, PA. She loves to be fabulous, drink pink cocktails, shop for vintage finds, and travel to the hottest spot in the world!

The AGE of Fashion

nospam@example.com (Jennie P) — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 14:45:39 -0800

Every year major magazines like VOGUE and HARPER’s BAZAAR dedicate an issue to age, celebrating women of all decades adorned in high style. Euphemisms are born, like “30 is the new 20” and “40 is the new 30” created by beauty editors to extend our everlasting youth. As my big 3-0 draws near, I have wondered exactly how my sense of style will change as I move into the next age bracket. It’s not like I can’t still rock my stilettos in the club (although I’ve noticed the length of time I can bear them is getting shorter!) but it’s important to dress appropriate for the age that you are. Here are a few pointers to keep you, your mom, and grandma timeless in fashion.

20’s - Age of the Party Girl
Finding yourself and your style are virtually equivalent in your 20’s. You can pretty much get away with anything whether it is fashionable or not. College threads turn into club clothes and then into daywear for your evolving career. This is your decade to rock the hot pink tights, miniskirts, and garments with lycra and spandex.

30’s Age of the Professional
Being that you most likely will have discovered your career path by your 30’s, it is important to focus on your professional image. Whatever your field, you want to maintain a polished, stylish, and youthful look. Think Jennifer Garner in “13 Going on 30”.

40’s Age of the Mother
Most women who want children have them by or during their 40’s. These women need not be caught in “mom jeans” or schlepping around in sweats because their life is dedicated to the children. Mothers can still be as fashionable as ever in contemporary clothing. Even chic maternity clothes are now available by high-end designers. Be the best-dressed mom on the playground.

50’s + Age of the Socialite
From charity fundraisers to bingo, the 50+ woman is out and about in society. She is wearing clothes that are non-conforming to the body and are comfortable but completely stylish. Generally women in their 50’s don’t want to show too much skin. Wraps and shawls are perfect accessories to keep these ladies ready for the ball!

Wedding Wear I Do's

nospam@example.com (Jennie P) — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 12:31:12 -0800

Being that I just celebrated "My Best Friend's Wedding" as the maid of honor (August 18, 2007) – I feel exceptionally compelled to report on the acceptable fashion Do's and Don'ts of wedding wear. I must admit, I saw EVERYTHING at these nuptials, from jeans and smoking jackets (DON'T) to black cocktail dresses (DO) to formal gowns (DON'T). Today's wedding fashion etiquette has certainly changed from traditional thought to contemporary trends. However some rules still apply when planning your ensemble for the special day.

White Wedding Woes
Although Emily Post's Institute of Etiquette proclaims that it is ok to wear white to a wedding as long as the dress does not resemble a wedding gown, many brides take offense to this color. This is their special day and some feel their special color. The rule applies that the bride should not be overshadowed. If you have a simple linen dress or off-white suit that you feel appropriate, check with the bride to make sure she won't freak out while walking down the aisle.

Black is Back
You can now wear black to a wedding, but remember this is a celebration, not a funeral. Don't dress in depressing fashion, select a sophisticated black cocktail dress and you'll look fabulous.

Too-Formal Wear
If you are not in the wedding party, DON'T wear an overly formal gown. This look is reserved for the bride & groom and their immediate circle. I saw an attendee in what looked like an old bridesmaid dress and she looked RIDICULOUS!

Religious Service Situations
Some couples perform certain religious rituals at weddings. Make sure that you understand what their service beliefs entail before you show up at the wedding with bare shoulders or too much leg/cleavage showing. You don't want the minister staring at you during his sermon.

Suit up Fellas
Guys should dress in a suit and tie for a wedding. The exception being a beach ceremony or other destination location where dress can be less formal. It is an absolute DON'T to wear jeans to a wedding even if you're also wearing a shirt and tie. I don't know why guys think this is cool. Ladies, please help your dates dress for a wedding…you DON'T want to be judged by your man's clothing choices either!

*Source – Emily Post Institute

Skivvy Solutions – How to Wear the Unmentionables

nospam@example.com (Jennie P) — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 12:07:23 -0700

I don’t believe women who claim the thong is comfortable. It’s a piece of string strung up the you-know-what! As the first thing that touches the body, underwear should make you feel like the lady you are. These garments are the first items you put on every morning and the last items you take off every night. Feeling FABULOUS in your gutchies is definitely a priority. Here are a few tips on selecting the right delicates to help find your inner PANTY PRINCESS.

Got Gutchies?
Find the right underwear to fit your lifestyle and personality. Are you athletic and prefer boy shorts? Do you feel sexy in black lace bikinis? Are tummy-tucking panties what you need? Cotton mid-thighs more your practical style? Comfort is definitely an issue here. Pick the style that you feel best in for everyday wear. Make sure you have some alternatives for special occasions. Playing dress up only gets better with age!

BRA-vo-luptuous
The brassiere is more challenging. It is really important that you wear a bra the fits your bust line correctly. Luxury department stores and lingerie boutiques provide fitting attendants to help you select the right bust and cup size. The cut of the bra can also add or minimize cleavage – the most popular being the underwire push-up for maximum effect. According to Oprah Magazine, 85% of American women wear the wrong size bra. If you don’t want to seek the advice of a bra-professional, have a friend measure your bust line with a tape measure. Just because a size 32 fits, doesn’t mean the 34 wouldn’t fit better. Remember, the better a bra fits, the more support you girls will receive.

Tit-for-Tat
There are many delicate accessories to accentuate the bust line. Silicone bra inserts and breast enhancers can add padding to your cleavage. Flower petal decals can be used in place of a bra in many fashion situations and double-sided Hollywood Fashion Tape is always a lifesaver. Kiss the Kleenex goodbye, ladies!

*Source – Oprah.com from the ‘O-Bra Intervention’, featured in the July 2005 Oprah Magazine.

What (NOT) to Wear to a FASHION Interview

nospam@example.com (Jennie P) — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 16:01:26 -0700

I am writing this blog as I overlook Times Square in the Big Apple. I have come to my favorite city, just a few days shy of fashion week, to support my lifelong friend interview for her dream job… as the STYLE host for BBC’s acclaimed production, What Not To Wear. (Yes, Clinton Kelly & Stacy London are moving on to other projects, according to the producers of the show!) After countless hours of going through her closet and vetoing dozens of outfits, we settled on a sophisticated ensemble that would look good on TV - a black pencil skirt belted with a crisp white blouse, and a gorgeous purple car coat. A chic outfit that would hopefully help land her this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

In the fashion industry, you certainly have more leeway to showcase your personality in your clothes. If you’re interviewing for a career in the medical or engineering fields, I would highly suggest you stick to the safe black suit. But in fashion – sometimes going to the extreme could HELP get you that coveted position. A magazine editor would notice this season’s Chanel pumps on your feet. Barney’s visual team wants someone with an eccentric eye for accessorizing.

DO balance your outfit with this season’s trends and sophisticated basics. It’s smart to start with a black dress and add a crop jacket and funky tights for flair.

DON’T think you can pull a fast one on a fashion insider and sport a knock-off label. This is a no-no for everyone! You were NOT lucky to get a real Louis Vuitton at that purse party for $100. Not true – and LV would be very disappointed in you for even carrying around that fake!

DO mix a bit of vintage with current fashion. It’s ok to wear a tweed skirt from the 70’s – as long as you pair it with a blouse and jacket you bought in this decade.

DON’T overdo it! You still want to look pulled together and not like you dressed up in every designer label you own.

DO wear a signature accessory that can become a conversation piece in the interview. You want to impress them with your style and intelligence. If you designed your own t-shirt, dress it up with a blazer and jewelry and tell them your wearing an original. They may want to order a few from you!

Jennifer Petrini is a freelance writer & fashion show producer from Pittsburgh, PA. She loves to be fabulous, drink pink cocktails, shop for vintage finds, and travel to the hottest spot in the world!

Campus Threads on a Budget

nospam@example.com (Jennie P) — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 13:22:16 -0700

Schools in session and you just spent the last of your hard-earned summer savings on new books for the semester…what’s a stylish student to wear? It seems that the current college fashion trends do extend past the university sweatshirts that have been popular since Belushi made the “College” sweater famous in Animal House. College is a time to find yourself and create individual style. Anything goes in the years before you hit the workforce but you can still be the best dressed of your class.

Shopping 101
Cheap and trendy threads can be found at big box retail chains such as Old Navy, Gap and Steve & Barry’s, who now carry Sarah Jessica Parker’s Bitten line and Dear by Amanda Bynes. Stores like these have the best sales when prices are slashed by up to 75%. Hitting up the sale racks in between seasons will fill up your closet fast.

Goodwill Hunting
Thrift store shopping is especially popular among many stylish students, preferring to create their own personal style through vintage t-shirts on the 25cent rack and boyfriend sweaters for a buck. You’ll be surprised by the treasures you can find at Goodwill – faux fur coats, hats, vintage purses, belts… and your total check may not even exceed $20!

Roommate Swap
The best thing about college is that you get someone else’s closet in your dorm room. If you are lucky to have made a friend in your roommate you can borrow some of her garments for a stylish variety. The girls on my floor would have swapping parties once a week and trade pieces to extend our wardrobes.

First Date Fashion Do's & Don't

nospam@example.com (Jennie P) — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 10:40:37 -0700

Dating a new HOTTIE will be stressful enough – picking out your outfit for the occasion shouldn’t be. A first date is the only shot you’ve got to make a fabulous impression on your possible Mr. Right. Show him the real you to guarantee date #2. Keep these tips in mind when dressing for your big night. Your look will keep him looking!

DO dress for the activity. Ask him in advance where you are going. You need to be prepared when selecting the right attire. You DON’T want to show up in your little black dress for the 50-yard line.

DO go casual for the movies in your favorite-fit jeans and a trendy but comfy top. If dinner is on the agenda, wear a flattering dress. When hitting the clubs, do a dressy tank to keep you cool on the dance floor.

DON'T be too sexy. I know you want to show off your assets but keep him guessing! This is only the first date. You don’t need to pull out the too-low-cut-skin-tight-top. He doesn’t need to know ALL of you yet.

DON'T wear a mini. If you didn’t get it in the first DON'T….absolutely under no circumstances rock a mini skirt on your date. Do you want to step out of the car like Britney? Check the gossip pages if you need a visual.

DO be confident in your ensemble. The best way to showcase your beautiful self is to feel good in your clothes. Trust me, he’ll notice.

Dressing For Success: What to Wear to the Office

nospam@example.com (Jennie P) — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 10:43:49 -0700

NO you don’t have to wear the ordinary (or rather, boring) navy blue suit to every job interview advertising for a “Professional” candidate in the classifieds. Times have changed and so has office fashion. You can still show off your style while looking clean, polished and presentable in the workforce. Maintaining a personality with your clothes just may land you that dream job! The key to styling your career wardrobe is all in moderation. Keep these tips in mind while picking out your 9-5 attire…you work hard for a living, time to dress for even BIGGER success

DO a black two-piece. Dump the navy suit.A black pencil skirt looks great paired with a trendy blouse with or without a short jacket. It’s best to pick out individual pieces that can work together or separate. Black easily morphs from day to night so you can hit happy hour in style.

DO wear color.
The office doesn’t have to be sterile without any color. Pair a brightly colored blouse with your outfit or sport a silk scarf. Even red heels can make your suit pop and be the conversation piece at the water fountain.

DO the Dress
The fall trapeze and menswear-inspired dresses are tailored to look perfect in the office.

DO TGIF
Thank god its flats…flat shoes, that is. 3 inch heels are not necessary in the office all day. If you keep a basic ballet flat at your desk, you can slip into them throughout the day while maintaining your professional appearance.

DON’T fall victim to Office Fashion Faux Pas.
I can’t stress enough – DON’T ever be caught in pantyhose and sneakers. NEVER wear jeans, t-shirts, or sloppy clothing. DON’T wear bangles or distractible jewelry and NEVER risk your job with an overly sexy outfit – that may lead you to the unemployment line…

10 Fashion Faux Pas

nospam@example.com (Jennie P) — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 12:07:05 -0700

Fashion is an expression of who you are…but nobody wants be a “DON’T”. Follow these faux pas to stay on the “DO” list!

1. DON’T wear nude pantyhose with open-toe shoes. Get a manicure and rock your shoes the way they were intended.

2. DON’T assume society wants to see your midriff. Unless you are at a resort or in the gym, midriff shirts are a DON”T, regardless of how smokin’ your body may be.

3. DON’T recreate Miami Vice fellas. We DON”T want to see your chest hair exposed in an overly unbuttoned shirt.

4. DON”T sport your children’s clothing. The Disney store is for kids. Let’s keep it that way.

5. DON’T rock a matching denim ensemble. Just because your jacket and jeans match doesn’t mean you should wear them together.

6. DON”T ever think pleated pants will make a comeback because they won’t. If your mom still wears them, burn ‘em for her.

7. DON’T ever wear a scrunchy in your hair. Like Carrie told Berger in Sex and the City, “No New York girl in her right mind would be caught dead wearing a scrunchy.” That goes for all of you!

8. DON’T walk downtown in sneakers and a powersuit. While I realize women on the go have to be comfortable, it just looks ridiculous.

9. DON’T try to hide behind the baggy look - it adds 10 pounds to your frame. You can achieve comfort with clothes that actually fit.

10. DON’T fabric clash and mix leopard with zebra or brocade with corduroy. The textures of your clothes shouldn’t look like you just walked out of a fabric store and stapled your outfit together.

BONUS DON’T – There is absolutely no reason you should EVER wear a fanny pack. I still see them and they are completely uncalled for. I don’t care if you’re a tourist, a dog walker, or Hulk Hogan; a fanny pack is the most obnoxious fashion DON’T of the century!

It’s in the BAG

nospam@example.com (Jennie P) — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 11:11:56 -0700

Just about every girl I know loves to buy a new purse! Whether a Coach tote, Chanel handbag, or a vintage clutch at a thrift store, a purse can say everything about the diva carrying it. Purses are personal accessories that hide all of your secrets. Yet finding the perfect bag to suit your personality and sass can be difficult. Here are few suggestions from one BAG lady to another…

Invest in a Classic Black Bag
No matter what your style, a black bag is a necessity in every wardrobe. Just pick one that fits your lifestyle. A “Girl-on-the-Go” can sport a messenger bag while the “Fashionista” can rock a signature Prada.

Pick a Purse that Looks Good on You
A purse is like any piece of clothing. It should suit your body type and look good up against your skin. Stay away from zany stripes or crazy graphic prints. They’ll stand out more than you will.

Bags on a Budget
It’s no joke that some purses cost a small fortune. Many last season bags make their way to discount department chains like TJ Max and Marshalls. I have been known to find a few designer labels at high-end thrift stores as well. Do a little digging and you can come across a fabulous find at an affordable price.

One of a Kinders
For those who want an original, check out local boutiques for indie designs or visit a Make-Your-Own-Purse shop. These little stores keep opening up in trendy neighborhoods where you can build, sew and style your very own bag.

Host a PURSE Party
Invite all your girlfriends over for a PURSE party. You can either contract an outside vendor to sell different styles or have each of your friends bring a purse that she doesn’t use anymore and swap. It’s a great way to add a new accessory to your wardrobe without spending a cent!

Jennifer Petrini is a freelance writer & fashion show producer from
Pittsburgh, PA. She loves to be fabulous, drink pink cocktails, shop
for vintage finds, and travel to the hottest spot in the world!

Poll: What's In Your Jeans?

nospam@example.com (Jackie123) — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 11:11:59 -0700

Which brand of jeans are your absolute faves? We're trying to compile a top ten list of trendy jean styles and brands and we need your help! Just add a comment to this post to let us know.

Blue 'Jean'ious: Guide to Finding Jeans that Fit

nospam@example.com (Jennie P) — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 11:26:27 -0700

For many fashionistas finding a perfect pair of jeans can be quite an overwhelming task. However it is an absolute necessity to have a fabulous pair that fit comfortably and highlight your body. Different denim cuts can hide certain flaws and accentuate the right curves. Denim specialty boutiques typically have in-house tailors to custom fit your jeans, while fashion websites like www.zafu.com offer a list of questions to help find the best brand to suit your shape.

‘Jean’ious Guidelines

You can never go wrong with a boot-cut jean. This style flares slightly at the ankle and makes most body types appear taller and slender. ~Try Frankie B. Jeans

Although skinny jeans are a celebrity favorite, they only flatter skinny legs. If you have thicker thighs, try a pair of stretch denim with a little lycra or spandex. They will hug your curves and make you appear thinner. ~Try Taverniti So Jeans

If you are petite, look for straight leg jeans or denim capris. Straight leg jeans can easily be hemmed without losing their shape, while capris accented with a pair of heels make shorties seem much taller. ~Try Citizens of Humanity

Those named “bootylicious” should stay clear of jeans accented with embellishments or small pockets on the rear. You don’t want your derriere to appear larger. ~Try Joe’s Jeans

Stonewash jeans are still out! Even if you feel the need to reincarnate the 80’s – DON’T. Dark washes of denim flatter almost any body type and look the most polished. ~Try Antik Denim

Sources:

www.zafu.com
www.revolveclothing.com

Fashion Reincarnated: Styles Through the Decades

nospam@example.com (Jennie P) — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 10:39:10 -0700

I wish my mother would have kept her wardrobe back in 1975. She had all the essential pieces of her time - bell bottoms, trapeze dresses, platform shoes, military gear. She, like many other retro-fashionistas, shamelessly threw away their trendy garments as soon as they no longer made a radical statement. Who knew those oldies would become goodies once again? I would kill to have her originals in my closet circa 2007.

Fashion trends are secular. They come back to haunt our style every few years or so, re-emerging as a more tailored approach to the authentic predecessor. Here’s a tribute to my favorite trends from fashion’s history.

40’s - The Cocktail Dress became “the perfect dress for the ever popular cocktail party.” Deemed too conservative for the 60’s & 70’s, the cocktail dress has evolved into the must-have “little black dress” of today.

50’s – Rebel with a Cause was the uniform of youth culture. James Dean/Marlon Brando, in a white t-shirt, leather jacket, and Levi’s. Need I say more?

60’s – Miniskirt. British designer Mary Quant gave us the mini at 30 cm in length. Our boyfriends still thank her.

70’s – Sportswear. Farrah Fawcett appeared on Vogue’s cover in April 1977 skateboarding in Nike “Senorita Cortez” running shoes. This was the first trend for activewear as fashion.

80’s – Power Suit for ‘Yuppies’. Although the original power suit was boxy with big shoulders, it taught us how to “Dress for Success” as did the book by John T. Molloy.

90’s – Grunge. Dirty, disheveled…how to roll out of bed and into fashion. Many still do!

What are your reincarnated fashion faves? Share your thoughts with us!

SOURCE: Icons of Fashion The 20th Century, edited by Gerda Buxbaum

Practical Fashion

nospam@example.com (Jackie123) — Fri, 29 Jun 2007 15:01:27 -0700

Now that summer's here, what do you think is the best (and most fashionable) way to protect your face? Sunglasses? Big beach hats?

The possibilities are endless...share your opinions today!

Asked and Answered

nospam@example.com (Jackie123) — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 13:45:51 -0700

Looking for advice on which brand to use, or which trends may be sticking around for the long term?

Asked and Answered is your opportunity to pose questions or thoughts to other readers - YOU decide what the topics of discussion will be!