I know it's been awhile but this fashion lover has been out of pocket swamped with all that is or could be fashionably irrelevant. At any rate, what's old has proven time and time to be new again. Let's see there's the resurgance of sweater dresses and 90's fav oxford heels and ankle boots. The good news is that sweater dresses come in a variety of knits (lightweight wools/chunky knits) and can flatter a variety of body types as long as you adhere to a few simple rules...let's say them together shall we?
- Thou shall not wear tight/ill-fitting sweater dresses in bright colors especially if I can fit clothing from Tall Girl, Lane Bryant, or any other plus-sized store.
- Thou shall not continue to wear any sweater dress that I own if they have piled. Nothing worse than wearing a sweater that looks like it has somehow been infected by the chicken pox.
-Thou shall not layer and layer and layer my sweater dress in a way that makes me too warm but will do so in a way that makes me look very "now"
Now that we know the rules, let's rock our sweater dresses, sip on a hot cocoa and enjoy the soon to be very cool fall season.
Monday, October 8, 2007
Friday, July 6, 2007
She Wore What!?!!
The fashion faux-pas, we've all committed them at one time or another. You know the whole "I thought this would go perfectly with that." And, you find out otherwise as onlookers pretended not to see you.
Sandals
Now the faux pas' I want to address is not one of fashion as it is more one of fit. Ladies, please take a close look at where your heels and/or toes lie in proportion to your shoes! This means if you cannot see the front rim on back rim of shoe, then your feet don't belong in them. Stop wearing shoes that unbeknownest to you are exfoliating your toes b/c they are on the ground being scraped as you walk or wearing shoes that are cutting the back of you feet b/c your heels are hanging over them. Trust me your feet will thank you for sandals, mules and the like that fits.
Babydoll/Swing Dresses
Some us need to wear more of swing and less of the baby. If you are a plus-sized woman, find a way to play up your assets, not detract from them by wearing clothing that makes you resemble Disney's beloved Dumbo in a baby bonnet. I know that may have sounded harsh, but consider it a kind dose of reality so that you may proceed with caution with these styles in the future. And stick with the women's department and stay out of the juniors department as my good friend "E" pointed out.
Leggings
Just like Jay-Z's "Hollywood," these ain't for everybody. If you're "too" anything, then leggings are probably not for you. Too skinny = not flattering, too big = most likely not flattering unless your top goes all the way down to your calves at which point, what would be the point of wearing them?
Just K.I.R
Til Next Time,
Ms. Fashion Know-How
Sandals
Now the faux pas' I want to address is not one of fashion as it is more one of fit. Ladies, please take a close look at where your heels and/or toes lie in proportion to your shoes! This means if you cannot see the front rim on back rim of shoe, then your feet don't belong in them. Stop wearing shoes that unbeknownest to you are exfoliating your toes b/c they are on the ground being scraped as you walk or wearing shoes that are cutting the back of you feet b/c your heels are hanging over them. Trust me your feet will thank you for sandals, mules and the like that fits.
Babydoll/Swing Dresses
Some us need to wear more of swing and less of the baby. If you are a plus-sized woman, find a way to play up your assets, not detract from them by wearing clothing that makes you resemble Disney's beloved Dumbo in a baby bonnet. I know that may have sounded harsh, but consider it a kind dose of reality so that you may proceed with caution with these styles in the future. And stick with the women's department and stay out of the juniors department as my good friend "E" pointed out.
Leggings
Just like Jay-Z's "Hollywood," these ain't for everybody. If you're "too" anything, then leggings are probably not for you. Too skinny = not flattering, too big = most likely not flattering unless your top goes all the way down to your calves at which point, what would be the point of wearing them?
Just K.I.R
Til Next Time,
Ms. Fashion Know-How
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
You Scream, I scream, We All Scream for White T's!
Its the premiere wardrobe saver, a wardrobe staple, and all-around comfy last resort. Its a white t-shirt; now, let me explain myself, when I say white t-shirt...it denotes, tanks, spaghetti strapped camis, fitted ones, loose ones, tunics, etc as long as its white. I don't know how many I've gone through but, I can't stop singing their praises...and at one point neither could Dem Franchise Boyz. I love them, quite simply.
A white t-shirt can not only carry most colors, but can do so in a way that can make you look so finished. With jeans (any color), most casual skirts, shorts, khakis, and some casual slacks, a white tee will do you justice. I think most people know this but, assuming you don't, buy more than one even if you are buying more than one in the same style...buy more than one. Nothing ruins a white tee more than those yellow deodorant stains! And white tanks aren't safe from these stains either so be cognizant of that when you're shopping.
Until a better alternative comes along...I'll be stompin in my white tee.
With Style,
Ms. Fashion Know-How
***Ms. Fashion Know-How does not support or condone in no shape or form any of the lyrics or behaviors discussed in the aforementioned song "White Tee."
A white t-shirt can not only carry most colors, but can do so in a way that can make you look so finished. With jeans (any color), most casual skirts, shorts, khakis, and some casual slacks, a white tee will do you justice. I think most people know this but, assuming you don't, buy more than one even if you are buying more than one in the same style...buy more than one. Nothing ruins a white tee more than those yellow deodorant stains! And white tanks aren't safe from these stains either so be cognizant of that when you're shopping.
Until a better alternative comes along...I'll be stompin in my white tee.
With Style,
Ms. Fashion Know-How
***Ms. Fashion Know-How does not support or condone in no shape or form any of the lyrics or behaviors discussed in the aforementioned song "White Tee."
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
It's Sundress Season!!!
How about it...Chicago is finally seeing some semblence of warm weather and us girls can finally put our sundresses to use. Contrary to what most might believe the easiest way to get dressed during summer is to put on a sundress. Think about it for a moment; its one piece and you're done. And, with this season's cute babydoll, A-line mini dresses, the ever-so-polished shirtdresses, we can all be cute and sassy.
This summer staple put the "girl" in girlie and can flatter even the most God-forsaken body shape. Right now I'm really feelin' Michael Star's new dress line. Its lightweight cotton dresses come in various colors and cuts and are not terribly expensive, check them out at www.michaelstars.com. From simple to sexy, this line has something to match all women's various personas; gotta love that!
Not to knock this season's craze with shorts, but a dress could be whole lot sexier and less constrictive than hot pants, clam diggers and the like so, I say free your legs and flee to the nearest dress shop!
Until A-Line...Ciao,
Ms. Fashion Know-How
This summer staple put the "girl" in girlie and can flatter even the most God-forsaken body shape. Right now I'm really feelin' Michael Star's new dress line. Its lightweight cotton dresses come in various colors and cuts and are not terribly expensive, check them out at www.michaelstars.com. From simple to sexy, this line has something to match all women's various personas; gotta love that!
Not to knock this season's craze with shorts, but a dress could be whole lot sexier and less constrictive than hot pants, clam diggers and the like so, I say free your legs and flee to the nearest dress shop!
Until A-Line...Ciao,
Ms. Fashion Know-How
Monday, May 21, 2007
Women Rejoice! Flats are Here to Stay...For Now.
At last, fashion is paying homage to our feet. How refreshing is it to have such a vast selection of really hot shoes sans the heel? From ballet shoes to gladiator sandals, there are so many flats to choose from, a girl could get lost in the 'flats' section of the women shoe department alone.
A personal favorite of mine is the Tory Burch "Reva Ballerina Flat" (click on link take a peek) http://www.toryburch.com/catalog_detail.aspx?cid=467&id=16431. I love the look of metallic this season and silver is the new "it" color. For the ladies who are thinking "is she crazy?" don't fear there are so many cute flats at various price points so, you name yours and I'm sure there are a pair of flats in it.
If you're like me, you typically can't wait for summer so, you can pull out the flip-flops as they too come in many stylish varieties but, now we have choices! I love stiletto's, strappy sandals, wedge sandals, and platforms as much as the next girl but, I think that my feet and me might just take this summer off and stick with the flats.
Til Next Time,
Ms. Fashion Know-How
A personal favorite of mine is the Tory Burch "Reva Ballerina Flat" (click on link take a peek) http://www.toryburch.com/catalog_detail.aspx?cid=467&id=16431. I love the look of metallic this season and silver is the new "it" color. For the ladies who are thinking "is she crazy?" don't fear there are so many cute flats at various price points so, you name yours and I'm sure there are a pair of flats in it.
If you're like me, you typically can't wait for summer so, you can pull out the flip-flops as they too come in many stylish varieties but, now we have choices! I love stiletto's, strappy sandals, wedge sandals, and platforms as much as the next girl but, I think that my feet and me might just take this summer off and stick with the flats.
Til Next Time,
Ms. Fashion Know-How
Friday, May 18, 2007
We Came, We Saw, We Mixed
Let's be clear about one thing; Chicago loves fashion!!! At least they did last night. And so did I as I walked rack after luscious rack at the Intermix grand opening party last night. This invite only party was a blast! Fashionistas and the men who love them were out in full force last night drinking, socializing and shopping. From fashion editor Stacy Wallace Albert to Chicago-based national jewelry designers, the fashion community was there. I am happy to say this swanky event was co-hosted by my favorite organization, Chicago Fashion Foundation (www.chicagofashionfoundation.com) and I'm not just saying that b/c I sit on the board.
Back to Intermix...talk about hot and haute clothing, Intermix is not for the girl who has a faint wallet shy of cash or plastic! With price points from $100 - $4000 per piece, Intermix features clothing from the best of the best. Lines include: Missoni, Stella McCartney, LaRok, Chloe, and many others. Needless to say I would've been in designer heaven had my wallet not been faint itself!
But, a girl has to splurge sometime and I say if you are going to do it, do so at Intermix. Check them out at www.intermixonline.com
With Style,
Ms. Fashion Know-How
Back to Intermix...talk about hot and haute clothing, Intermix is not for the girl who has a faint wallet shy of cash or plastic! With price points from $100 - $4000 per piece, Intermix features clothing from the best of the best. Lines include: Missoni, Stella McCartney, LaRok, Chloe, and many others. Needless to say I would've been in designer heaven had my wallet not been faint itself!
But, a girl has to splurge sometime and I say if you are going to do it, do so at Intermix. Check them out at www.intermixonline.com
With Style,
Ms. Fashion Know-How
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Just When Thought You Wouldn't...You Did!
Gotta love fashion right, what's old is new again in the ever-changing landscape of clothes. I swore that my legs would never see another pair of leggings after my stir-up/legging wearing days of the '80s. And yet there I was just yesterday perusing the tights and leggings in Nordstrom, looking for the perfect pair of beige or sand-colored ones to wear with the 90s favorite, babydoll dress that I was also shopping for.
From bubble skirts to skinny jeans to off one-shoulder sweaters we have all taken a step back to when Madonna was just a "Material Girl" and we are having fun doing it. Hats off to all of us trendseekers!
However, I will draw the line at the fish-tail/mermaid denim skirt with the zip-off sections to be worn at different lengths. Remember those...the horror.
Until next time...Ciao!
Ms. Fashion Know-How
From bubble skirts to skinny jeans to off one-shoulder sweaters we have all taken a step back to when Madonna was just a "Material Girl" and we are having fun doing it. Hats off to all of us trendseekers!
However, I will draw the line at the fish-tail/mermaid denim skirt with the zip-off sections to be worn at different lengths. Remember those...the horror.
Until next time...Ciao!
Ms. Fashion Know-How
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Polka Dots...Friend of Foe?
Kwame fans (remember him? has-been rapper from the '90s) are rejoicing everywhere, thanks to the return of polka dots. Just remember ladies polka dots can be more of a frenemy than a friend to your body. Let's explore how to wear them shall we?
If you are not very height and weight proportionate then polka dots can either make you look like Bozo or some other clown. For my voluptious vixens, please use caution when wearing polka dots. Don't exaggerate your size by wearing large, colorful dots instead stick to a monochromatic dots that a neither too large or too tiny; also limit your dots to just one piece of your outfit. For my willowly babes, you too can look like a clown by wearing multiple polka dot pieces and while you can get away with wilder patterns, stay away from the ones that will make you scream "my outfit cost seven dollars for the whole thing."
As with all trends, exercise caution when rocking polka dots unless you're 12-years old, then I say have fun with them!
If you are not very height and weight proportionate then polka dots can either make you look like Bozo or some other clown. For my voluptious vixens, please use caution when wearing polka dots. Don't exaggerate your size by wearing large, colorful dots instead stick to a monochromatic dots that a neither too large or too tiny; also limit your dots to just one piece of your outfit. For my willowly babes, you too can look like a clown by wearing multiple polka dot pieces and while you can get away with wilder patterns, stay away from the ones that will make you scream "my outfit cost seven dollars for the whole thing."
As with all trends, exercise caution when rocking polka dots unless you're 12-years old, then I say have fun with them!
Monday, May 14, 2007
It's Never Old...Its Just Waiting to Be Reworn
Anyone with an ounce of fashion sense knows that great pieces never really go out of style....these pieces can be paired with the latest trend and often on the trend chart themselves. That said, there is a method to identifying and purchasing these timeless pieces that will be worn again and again. Let's look at these pieces shall we?
Trench Coats
Investing in a classic trench coat is absolutely the way to go ladies. The trench coat has been reinvented countless times but nothing is hotter than the traditional double-breasted trench coat that can be kept current with choice of belt or by lengthening/shortening it. What does mean for us modern-day fashionistas? It means buy from Theory and not Old Navy. Now, before I piss of some financially-challenged lady out there...I'm not saying that Old Navy is bad, I own a T or two from there myself but, you have to be willing to pay for a nice trench coat (nicer ones fit well and are often lined), if you would like to keep it for years and have it still be a relevant piece.
Black Slacks
This should be a no-brainer but, there are still women who insist on purchasing cheap black slacks - only to wonder why they've turned that hideous shade of gray or indigo. If you don't pay for any other pair of slacks you wear...please, please, please buy a nice pair of lightweight wool black slacks. If the fabric is nice, then it won't pile or discolor. I learned this the hard way - thinking I could get away with the $78.00 dollar pair from the Gap. At the very minimum, buy a nicer pair from Banana Republic or JCrew. You'll be out of roughly $130 dollars but you'll have a piece of mind and some semblance of a decent pair black slacks.
Black Pumps
If you can afford to...put down the Nine West pair and pick up the Manolo's or at the bare minimum Kenneth Cole pumps. Provided you pick up a timeless pair, you can ideally have this pump for a few years. The nice thing about nice pumps is that they often have a leather sole that any good shoe cobbler can replace (need be). One Caveat: If the shoe hurts (even mildly), then put them down - don't know about you but, I'm not willing to get corns, bunions and other foot ailments for the sake Choo, Blahik or anyone else.
Denim
Now I'm a stickler for designer denim: Rock & Republic, True Religion Jeans, Serfontaine, Joe Jeans and all others but, if your pockets does not allow for the purchase of aforementioned brands then invest in great - fitting denim and not pairs with Cats, Apples and other silly things branded on them. This rule should definitely apply if you are over over the age of 23! Stores like Club Monaco, Arden B, and Gap are great places to pick up a stylish pair of denim jeans that don't scream cheap! A great pair of jeans can be just as timeless a trench coat. Heed this advice ladies...I wouldn't stir you off on this one.
Boots
Last but certainly not least are boots. I can attest to this one as well having once purchased a pair of cheap black boots. All I can say is Splurge, Splurge, Splurge! In all my years of shopping, I have found that more often than not the classy pair of black, espresso, and camel-colored boots are pricey. And that's for a reason - these boots will carry through more fall and winter seasons than Britney can go through wigs! The cheap boots will often have more bells and whistles on them and most certainly assure that you look stupid the following winter when they are no longer stylish!
Just thought you girls should know...
With Style,
Ms. Fashion Know-How
Trench Coats
Investing in a classic trench coat is absolutely the way to go ladies. The trench coat has been reinvented countless times but nothing is hotter than the traditional double-breasted trench coat that can be kept current with choice of belt or by lengthening/shortening it. What does mean for us modern-day fashionistas? It means buy from Theory and not Old Navy. Now, before I piss of some financially-challenged lady out there...I'm not saying that Old Navy is bad, I own a T or two from there myself but, you have to be willing to pay for a nice trench coat (nicer ones fit well and are often lined), if you would like to keep it for years and have it still be a relevant piece.
Black Slacks
This should be a no-brainer but, there are still women who insist on purchasing cheap black slacks - only to wonder why they've turned that hideous shade of gray or indigo. If you don't pay for any other pair of slacks you wear...please, please, please buy a nice pair of lightweight wool black slacks. If the fabric is nice, then it won't pile or discolor. I learned this the hard way - thinking I could get away with the $78.00 dollar pair from the Gap. At the very minimum, buy a nicer pair from Banana Republic or JCrew. You'll be out of roughly $130 dollars but you'll have a piece of mind and some semblance of a decent pair black slacks.
Black Pumps
If you can afford to...put down the Nine West pair and pick up the Manolo's or at the bare minimum Kenneth Cole pumps. Provided you pick up a timeless pair, you can ideally have this pump for a few years. The nice thing about nice pumps is that they often have a leather sole that any good shoe cobbler can replace (need be). One Caveat: If the shoe hurts (even mildly), then put them down - don't know about you but, I'm not willing to get corns, bunions and other foot ailments for the sake Choo, Blahik or anyone else.
Denim
Now I'm a stickler for designer denim: Rock & Republic, True Religion Jeans, Serfontaine, Joe Jeans and all others but, if your pockets does not allow for the purchase of aforementioned brands then invest in great - fitting denim and not pairs with Cats, Apples and other silly things branded on them. This rule should definitely apply if you are over over the age of 23! Stores like Club Monaco, Arden B, and Gap are great places to pick up a stylish pair of denim jeans that don't scream cheap! A great pair of jeans can be just as timeless a trench coat. Heed this advice ladies...I wouldn't stir you off on this one.
Boots
Last but certainly not least are boots. I can attest to this one as well having once purchased a pair of cheap black boots. All I can say is Splurge, Splurge, Splurge! In all my years of shopping, I have found that more often than not the classy pair of black, espresso, and camel-colored boots are pricey. And that's for a reason - these boots will carry through more fall and winter seasons than Britney can go through wigs! The cheap boots will often have more bells and whistles on them and most certainly assure that you look stupid the following winter when they are no longer stylish!
Just thought you girls should know...
With Style,
Ms. Fashion Know-How
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