Worked: Ink Pen and Pencil Skirt Look 1





Over the weekend, you voted and this is the skirt that you chose to be worked. The 'Ink Pen and Pencil Skirt is from ModCloth and it retails for $39.99. For this look, I paired it with neutrals and flesh tones for a feminine look. The rose-colored top is $65 from TopShop. The pretty blush bracelet set is $40 from TopShop. Nude suede duffel studded across body bag is $59.18 at Asos. Karen Millen Laser Cut Pattern Leather Drawstring Sac Bag is $312.82 at Asos. The black and blush leather platform is $219.82 from Asos and the taupe and brown open toe platform by Dune is $143.73 at Asos.

It's easy to recreate this look with a solid top in the color of your choice. Black and white go with anything, so with this skirt you can just choose a top in your favorite color and coordinate your accessories in a way that compliments the top and everything else should fall into place.

Stay tuned throughout the week for more looks featuring the Ink Pen and Pencil Skirt form ModCloth.

Valaira

Meet Valaira whose last relaxer in July 2007. She transitioned and has been natural for 3 years.

Valaira's regimen... 
I wash once a month with a non-sulfate shampoo but I co-wash my hair once a week with conditioner. I deep condition the same time I wash it, which is once a month. I trim my hair myself and only when I start to see split ends, so it varies. I only get my hair flat ironed if I am doing a hair show or ad. I try not to straighten my hair because it is hard for my curl pattern to bounce back. My hair is not as thick as it looks and it fries easily.

Dye...
Pitch black color is my favorite color and it keeps my hair looking shiny, I’ll color it every 3 months or so.

Favorite hair products...
I try to use natural products and one of my favorites is RAW Black Soap from Smell Good Spa at www.smellgoodspa.com. I shampoo my hair with it and also shower with it.I also like Suave Almond and Shea Butter and Kinky Curly Curling Custard.

Favorite style...
Pony Puffs, Wash-n-go’s and BIG Curly Fros

You should know...
As an actress, model and entrepreneur, I am always on the run so I try to do hairstyles that do not require a lot of work. My company VUE Entertainment is an event planning and Fashion Show/Event Production Company. I partner with fashionista’s like myself and collaborate on producing fashion shows and events in the Atlanta and surrounding areas. Being in this industry with natural hair has opened my eyes to the current mindset of those in the industry and this natural journey has taught me a lot about myself. My hair is just an outer reflection of my inner growth.

Photos by Terance Johnson

DeShanee

Meet DeShanee.

On going natural...
I stopped getting relaxers around February of 2006. Due to some breakage from stress I just went ahead and had my hair dresser give me the big chop in August 2006.

Hair Care Regimen...
I try to wash my hair once a week. I’m pretty busy and would like to make it twice a week but never get to it! I deep condition once a week. I have really thick hair and it sucks up moisture very quickly! As for trims, I am terrified of scissor happy stylist so I didn’t for a long time. Now every few months. I flat iron and blow dry once a month. I like the big blown out look on me. But the next time I wash my hair it's usually a VERY deep conditions and air dry. I haven’t colored my hair in a long time. But my hair does react to the sun and gets lighter. My favorite deep conditioning ingredient is coconut milk. Usually I just open the can and apply it to my hair almost like a relaxer. I use a large tooth comb to work it in, wrap my hair with plastic wrap and let it sit for about an hour. I rinse it out with warm water until it runs clear. It makes my hair so soft and I don’t touch it for days! Also I use almond, soy, and olive oil to oil my scalp every couple of days. There is this amazing line called “Urban Therapy” A lost of the products are de-frizzing which is great for me. Only problem is it’s mostly sold in England. I just happen to stumble upon it at TJ Maxx one day. Also, Miss Jessie’s Curly Pudding when I can get my hands on some! Aussie’s 3 minuet Deep Conditioner (I leave it in for about 30 mins)is pretty good too. I buy hair products anywhere: TJ Maxx, Wal Mart, Target, random hair stores around town, it doesn’t matter much to me! My favorite way to wear my hair is to wash and put in flexi rods. It produces these pretty cool barrel curls or a big blow out look.

My hair shero is Angela Davis.

Lacoste Makes Wraps Happen

The head wraps and hair accessories from Lacoste's spring 2010 collection had a beachy retro kind of vibe. If you're bracing yourself for a hot summer, long days by the pool or traipsing the streets sight-seeing, then you should consider protecting your hair in this very chic way.



See the entire collection on Style.com or Lacoste.com.

Zuba Africa Tote and Cosmetic Bags

Zuba Africa tote and cosmetic bags are handcrafted by artisans in Rwanda, this print cotton handbag features double handles. They retail for $38 (for the totes) and $48 (for the cosmetic bags) at ShopBop.

From ShopBop: ZUBA Africa is a collaboration between Linda Trau, a designer and humanitarian, and Freewinds Trading, a company that uses business as a strategy for the economic empowerment of women in developing countries. ZUBA Africa, inspired by 'izuba,' the Rwandan word for sunshine, seeks to make a lasting difference in Rwandan communities by collaborating with skilled artisans of local cooperatives. ZUBA Africa's launch in 2010 brought these artisans' unique, handcrafted jewelry and bags to the wider world.



Recycling Hair Product Packaging

Hey, product junkies! If you're like me you go through A LOT of product. Do you recycle the bottles?

Vote in the poll.

Do you recycle hair product packaging?
No and I don't care to
No, but I want to
Yes, I do


  

Leah's Product Rave

Leah writes...

Following your natural hair journey, I believe your hair texture is "Very" similar to mines. I chopped all my hair off in 02/08 because I was so tired of perms pulling out my hair(plus I'm scissor happy). I was already a product junkie when I had a perm, and I really became a product junkie when I went natural!

I would like to recommend/challenge you to try a product that I use on my hair when I wash and go. I have attached some pictures to try to show you my hair in every state (Wet, dry, straighten). I don't straighten my hair often so after experimenting with many costly and cheap products I have found a cheap one that works wonders on my hair type.

The product I swear by for wash-n-go's....(Drum roll :-P )...
MOTIONS PINK MOISTURIZER! It comes in a pink purple bottle and cost $3.99, It can be found at your local Sally's. PLEASE try it once and use generously. Let your hair air dry and watch your curls pop!

Your hair will already be shiny and conditioned but I like my curls to look "wet" so once my hair dries I take some olive oil (dime size) rub it together and gently work it in my hair and it adds more shine!

Please let me know how it works for you. I have used this product in my curly hair pictures.

My reply...

Leah, I don't typically use products that contain mineral oil, but I have used pink oil moisturizers in the past from Luster's and Motions. I grew up on pink oil and Wild Root.  I found a natural product very similar: Carol's Daughter Hair Milk. It works the same or better with much better ingredients.


What do you think about pink oil or other oil moisturizers like Carol's Daughter Hair Milk? Please share your thoughts in the comments or e-mail a photo and your review.

Pick a Skirt

Here are the top ModCloth.com skirts that you chose, but there was no clear winner so I need you to help me narrow it down again. Of these 3 skirts, which would you like to see featured in 'Worked'? I'm going to pick that skirt and all next week, I'm going to show a few different options on how to wear it with common items that most women already have in their wardrobes.

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Which skirt would you like to see 'worked'
1
2
3





  

One Question

You see a girl with fabulous hair passing by in the airport and you are both in a rush. You only have time to say, "You're hair is amazing" and ask her one question about her hair. Would you ask her about the products she uses, tools she uses or a specific question about her hair care regimen (how often she washes, trims, deep conditions... not to include product or tool recommendations)? Clearly all of these factors work together to result in great hair, but what do you think is the most important?

One question
I'd ask her what products she uses
I'd ask her about what tools or equipment she uses
I'd ask her about her hair care regimen

  

Cute Skirts Alert

Check out these cute new skirts at ModCloth.com. Love them because you can dress them up or dress them down. It's easy to just add a tank and accessorize to make your own unique look. You can mix patterns like pairing a striped shirt with the lace skirt or florals with the abstract designs. For tops you can use stuff you already have in your closet: button down chambray or denim, white button down, body suits, tanks, vest, graphic tees, v-neck tees, etc... You can layer tops with belts, vests, sweaters and blazers. What's better? Most of these are under $50.

I need  a challenge. What I want to do is pick one of these skirts and create a few different looks using common items that most women already have in their wardrobes. I need help on deciding which skirt to choose. I have numbered the skirts, now I need you to vote in the poll below to tell me which skirt you want me to work with.

Cheers!






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Which skirt would you like to see 'worked'?
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Rock It Knock It: Fashion is Art Wedge

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ModCloth says: Though some refuse to believe it, we know it's true - fashion is a form of art. These wild wedges from Jeffrey Campbell are here to prove it! Slashed with a bold, black and white pattern evocative of popular 80's graffiti art, and bottomed by a wedge of imbricated silver discs whose shiny surface reflects the world around them, these impact-making leather peep toes are ready to turn your world into an aesthetic wonderland. Close their zipper around your inner ankle, and pair them with form-hugging leggings, a geometric print dress, and angular sunglasses for a look that's a pure masterpiece!

So would you rock them or knock them? Share your thoughts in the comments and go to www.ModCloth.com for more details. They are already sold out, but if you're a fan of ModCloth then you know all the good stuff goes quickly. Snooze and you loose on these one of a kind pieces.

Attention Ladies in Los Angeles

Do you live in Los Angeles?

Do you love Maxwell and Jill Scott?

DO you love Kinky-Curly products?

HERE'S YOUR CHANCE TO EXPERIENCE ALL OF THE ABOVE!

Enter to win a deluxe gift set of Kinky-Curly products + 2 tickets for you and a friend to see Jill Scott & Maxwell live in concert at the Staples Center Saturday June 5, 2010 @ 7PM

Here's how:
Visit Wilshire Beauty at 5401 Wilshire Boulevard & fill out an entry card!


CONTEST RULES:
* No purchase necessary to enter.
* Must be 18 years or older to enter.
* Limit one (1) entry per visit.
* Contest ends June 1st @ 8:00 PM
* Winner will be notified and announced on June 2nd.
* ONE (1 ) winner will receive a set of two (2) tickets.
* Winner must provide their own transportation to Staples Center.

NO TELEPHONE OR EMAIL ENTRIES ALLOWED - YOU GOTTA COME ON DOWN FOR THIS ONE!

CLICK HERE FOR MAP & DIRECTIONS

61 Jumpsuits

I scoured through hundreds of jumpsuits and I found some great ones, most of these are under $100. Click images for details and pricing.



If you're reading this from a feed, you will need to go to maneandchic.com to view the images.

Rock It Knock It: Maison Martin Margiela Wide Ankle Boots

The Maison Martin Margiela wide ankle boot retails for $775 at Saks. Forget about the price, would you rock them?

Click for more details.

#NaturalHair on Twitter Day

June 1, 2010 is #naturalhair trending day on twitter. It will be cool to see if #naturalhair becomes a trending topic that day. Also, be sure to follow me on Twitter: twitter.com/maneandchic.

I'm 200+ tweets away from 2000 tweets so I might try to reach that goal by June 1. Not sure why, maybe some kind of neurosis, but I like giving myself numerical goals.

Do You ACV Rinse?

Do you ACV Rinse?
Yes, at least once a week
Yes, every other week or a couple of times per month
Yes, once a month
Yes, every other month
Yes, once a quarter or less
Yes, but rarely
No, I never do ACV rinses
No, what is an ACV rinse
  

What benefits have you seen from doing ACV rinses? Please share in the comments.

Wardrobe Building: Jumpsuits, Work Look

Jumpsuits are fabulous, but they don't get enough play. They are versatile enough to fit in any one's wardrobe. With some creative accessorizing and layering, they can be worn year round. This is a work look that features a jumpsuit paired with a blazer with pop of color in the shoes and necklace. You can keep the look monochromatic and stick to tans and beiges. You can also use another color besides blue for the pop of color, the possibilities are really endless. If you're looking for a piece that will add oodles of versatility to your wardrobe, look no further than the jumpsuit.

Product info, click links for details.
Isabella Oliver 365 The Classic Jacket – $134.50
Vanessa Kandiyoti Diamond and sapphire evil eye necklace – $1,760
The Mitzy Bag by Marc B** – $90
Kenneth Jay Lane Gold-plated bracelet – $38
Stella McCartney Linen-blend jersey jumpsuit – $925
Marc by Marc Jacobs Women's MMJ 073/S Resin Sunglasses – $98
Martinez Valero Women's Ona Platform Pump in French Blue– $154.95
Sergio Rossi Pumps in Cobalt Blue – $396

Oh Honey: Yogurt and Honey Conditioner

By Guest Blogger Anita Grant of AnitaGrant.com.

Yogurt contains AHA (alpha hydroxyacid) an example of an AHA is lactic acid/sodium lactate. Lactic acid is found naturally in milk products and fruit. When used on skin or hair it does leave a very nice silky soft feeling. AHAs are also a natural exfoliant too - so instead of using those expensive AHA products why not reach for yogurt.

Prep time required: 10 minutes

1. Take a small pot of all natural yogurt
2. Add a quarter teaspoon of honey.
3. Add a couple of drops of your favourite hair loving essential oil
4. Put the mixture on your dry, clean hair
5. Cover with Cling Film
6. Leave on for 15 to 20 mins.
7. Rinse
8. Enjoy the softness

Not suitable for those with milk intolerance or Ovo-Lacto Vegetarians

Oh Honey: Honey Rose Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

By Guest Blogger Anita Grant of AnitaGrant.com.

An easy recipe that will help to remove build up, restore the natural pH balance & rejuvenate your scalp. Suitable for all hair types.



60ml of Apple Cider Vinegar
945ml of Water
10g of Dried Pink Rose Petals & Buds (add more if you wish)
1 drop of honey (add a few drops more if you wish)



Prep Time: 20 mins

What you will need:

1 Large Pyrex jar or bowl
Cling film
1 Clean & dry glass Jar with lid
1 Strainer
Kettle to boil the water



1. Put the Dried Pink Rose Petals & Buds into the bowl & add Honey
2. Boil the kettle. Once boiled pour the hot water over the Rose & Honey mix, then add the Apple Cider Vinegar.
3. Stir the mixture, cover the bowl with cling film and let steep for 10 minutes or until cool.
4. When the mixture has cooled sufficiently strain the herb from the liquid into the jar.
5. Pour the liquid over the scalp allowing the mixture to saturate your hair, message gently for 2 minutes
6. Rinse with cold water to seal the cuticles


Only make enough for 1 rinse and use it FRESH on the day you make it.


NOTE:
Keep your eyes closed when using the Honey Rose Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse also do not use if you have broken skin.

Oh Honey: Honey Recipe for Treating Dandruff

By Guest Blogger Anita Grant of AnitaGrant.com.

For Treating Dandruff:
Honey is a natural anti inflammatory — mix a dab of honey with a little water and a couple of drops of Lavender or Ylang-Ylang and apply directly to the itchy, flaky area(s). Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes and then rinse off or not — it's your choice.

Oh Honey: All About Honey

By: Guest Blogger Anita Grant of AnitaGrant.com.


About: Honey is one of the most naturally hydrating, acid balanced skin & hair food. It's composed of a variety of sugars or glucose (also known as dextrose), lactic acid, beta carotene & trace levels of amino acids, potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, iron, copper, sulphur, vitamins & enzymes. 

Note: The nutrients contained within honey is dependant on the nectar that the bees collect.

Honey's humectant properties nourishes & moisturises everything it touches. In Thailand honey is used on open wounds to soften the scar tissue and encourage new skin growth. This may be due to the fact that there is a high concentration of sugars in honey that prevents the growth of bacteria on open wounds but it has never been scientifically proven. 

Honey concerns: Honey should not be used on infants under the age of 12 months for fear of infant botulism. Clostridium bacteria may be one of the causes of infant botulism. This bacteria is said to be found in certain types of foods like honey. Infant botulism may occur in children from the age of six months or under. If you're allergic to pollen then you may be allergic to honey - a patch test is always recommended. 

Well I'll Bee!
All honey bees belong to the Apis gene regardless of whether the bee is from Sunny Africa or Bonny Scotland. Some bees have access to particular areas of fields where ONLY one kind of flower grows.

For example:
- Clover
- Goldenrod
- Heather
- Basswood
- Chamomile
- Lavender
etc...

It is the flowering plant (nectar or plant sap) that gives honey it's distinct flavour, colour, extra nourishment and/or individual beneficial properties.
Bees can also create their own blends of honey from various flowering plants in any one particular field.

Bees add a lot of moisture & enzyme compounds to nectar, the sugars of the honey nectar are broken down to form simple sugars - some of which are converted into a naturally occurring acid called gluconic acid. This is what gives each particular type of honey it's rich distinctiveness & flavour from mild to bland to full on powerful to sickly pungent. (Note: There are synthetically made gluconic acids available too, so read the label & ask questions if you're unsure).

The colour of the honeys can range from deep black to beige or white. Each of the colours are created in the nectar of the plant, it is then transported back by the bee to the hive, then the bees do their natural stuff by reducing the moisture level. When the honey is darker it means that it has come from a nectar source where the flowering plant produces a darker plant sap.

Giovanni 50:50 Hydrating-Calming Conditioner

Last week, I purchased a 33.5 ounce bottle of Giovanni 50:50 Hydrating-Calming Conditioner from TJ Maxx for $12.99. The entire Giovanni line can do no wrong in my eyes. It's natural and organic and it actually works. What sold me on Giovanni 50:50 Hydrating-Calming Conditioner was the claim on the bottle: "Leaves hair perfectly pH balanced and conditioned". Lately, I've been increasingly concerned with the porosity and pH levels of my hair as I've been researching ways to control and mitigate frizz. It is a step that most people don't consider, but it could have the greatest impact on our hair. Over the past few days I've been using Giovanni 50:50 Hydrating-Calming Conditioner as an overnight pre-wash and also as a a rinsing conditioner/co-washing conditioner. I haven't tried it as a leave-in yet, but I will keep you posted when I do. I don't have anything negative to say about this product. It smells like typical Giovanni products and works like typical Giovanni products. Honestly, the only difference I've noticed between the different Giovanni conditioners is the consistency: Direct Leave In is very light while Smooth As Silk Xtreme is very thick and kind of like a dry cream (if that makes any sense). 50:50 is somewhere in the middle. As far as seeing a difference in how the conditioners perform on my hair, I don't notice a difference.  They all leave my hair super moisturized and easier to detangle. I guess the ultimate test would be to see how it performs on a wash-n-go. I will probably be finishing off this bottle in the next couple of weeks and I will be buying it again (unless I am seduced by a new Giovanni conditioner).

Ingredients:
Aqua (purified water) , rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract, urtica dioica (nettle) extract, thymus vulgaris (thyme) extract, chamomilla recutita (matricaria) extract, salvia sclarea (lcary) leaf extract, lavendula angustifolia (lavender), tussilago farfara (coltsfoot) flower extract, achillea miliefolium (yarrow) extract, seed extract, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, glycerin, brassicamidopropyl dimethylamine, panthenol, cetrimonium chloride, cetearyl alcohol, hydroxypropyl guar, behentrimonium methosulfate, polysorbate 60, citric acid, disodium EDTA, ethylhexylglycerin, phenoxyethanol, fragrance with essential oils.

If you have specific questions about my experience with this product, please leave it in the comments. If you have tried this product, please share your experience in the comments.

Women Clothes 1-0-1: How To Dress Your Body!


What is your body shape
By: falasha regina

At times it becomes really tough for women to choose the type of clothes they want to wear. For instance, have you ever  gone into a shop with  intentions to buy a dress, but simply find yourself distracted? I do, and I end up buying a pair of jeans, a blouse and socks.  Shortly after this I find myself at home wondering why I do not have a dress. I know, this sounds silly but it happens all the time. If you are planning to buy some clothes for your self, first calmly sit and decide on the following:

1. How many times are you planning to wear the dress?
2. Are you buying something to wear around your office or a cocktail party or a wedding?
3. Will it be one time wear or a classic outfit?
4. Will it go with a half a dozen or a single pair of your sandals or shoes?

By being honest with yourself about these question you will save money, and build a better wardrobe.


The first point that you should always consider while shopping should be  your budget. This can be very hard since stores are designed to make you forget all about your budget and bills. Think about your pocket and then think about how-to look good with money still in it. Stick to it and don't drift away on anything that does not go with your budget. There are a variety of places from where you can buy clothes. Online stores, shopping malls, fashion boutiques, outlets and discount shops are all great places to go if you know what you are looking for..

While desiring to buy garments, color is incredibly significant. Prefer a color that you have become fond of  or that you know is in style and classic; like natural tones and black. Another color suggestion would be to pick colors for which you previously have accessories to accessorize. Initial impressions are superior suggestions.

Receiving the accurate match in the outfits is a dare in itself. Once more, if it does not suit you correctly probability is you won't be wearing it much.

Your size is not important, but how the dress fits  is.  You are likely wondering how do you know what style suits you!  Women’s body shapes are broken down into four categories, they are lettered A, T, H and

diff. body shapes

The "A" body shape also referred to as pear is when you carry the majority of weight in the hip region
"A" body types are defined by:
The hip measurement being the largest, when calculated using a measuring tape. Women with A body types usually have quite narrow waist and bust in comparison. There is usually around a 5% difference between shoulder to hip ratio.

To dress an A body type you will want to stick to darker colors on the bottom in comparison to the top. I would recommend no back pockets on your jeans and tops with collars. All of these suggestions take attention away from the lower half and makes a more proportioned look.

How do I know if I am a "T" body shape?

Women with "T" body shapes look like a" T"; it is quite self-explanatory. A busty physique or broad shoulders with the waist and hips not creating any curves.

You will know if you are a "T" body shape because it is characterized by :
The shoulder or bust measurements being the largest. There will usually be a 5% difference between the hips and shoulders, with the shoulders being the widest part.

How do you dress a "T" body shape?

You will want to take attention away from thee shoulders as much as possible. Avoid sleeveless shirts or tank tops. It is good to emphasize a small waist line. Bangles are a good eye-catcher and since they would be parallel to your hips it creates a curve affect. You will want to do the opposite of the A body shape and use light on the bottom combined with dark top and this will divert attention from the shoulders and adding to a curvier silhouette. A good item for a T shape are wrap dresses, ones  that cinch in tighter at the waist and flow out.

How do I know if I am an "H" body shape?

For "H" body types the hip and shoulder measurements are the same or, quite close to it. If you are an "H" body shape you have a straight “up-and-down” build with few curves.
If you have an"H" body shape then you want to  create curves for a nice silhouette. Fitted waist belts are great to create a nice waist line.  Low embellishments on the hip line will can add volume to the hips thus making waist smaller by comparison.

Trouser pants are a classic staple to a wardrobe that can elongate the leg and create a nice curve.

The "X" Body Shape is the quintessential curvy women. She has bust/shoulders and thighs/ butt. Yet, even the curvy body type has some no-no styles for the body type.

How do I know if I am an "X" body shape?

An “X” body shape is characterized by the shoulder and hips having no more than a 5% differential.

X body shapes should keep their hips and shoulders balanced.  Boxy cuts that hide your shape and overly tight or exposing clothes.

Women’s clothing inspirations can be characterized by anything that you would like to accomplish through your clothing, these include:

Humility
Exemplifying  "bashfulness" is a modern women’s means of displaying a mysterious femininity with sex appeal. Floral print dresses and playful colors can help this look

Attractiveness

It is said very well that a woman usually dresses to grab attention and respect. From evening gowns for parties till official suits for business presentations, attractiveness can be exuded with finely tailored and smooth fitting clothes.

Class
Women, as well as men always desire garments that represent their current position or rank; or the position or rank they desire.  Dress for the person you want to be.

Events & Occasions

A lot of times, women are dressed in detailed garments for definite events and reasons that are extremely momentous in their lives. Wedding attire is an illustration of this specific type of apparel. Other instances could be Prom night, night club events, cocktail parties, etc.
I hope this helps in all of your fashion endeavors. By following these simple, but detailed guidelines you will be able to build a strong wardrobe with great items that can fit well into your work, and social lifestyle. I also ask you to remember that the key to all of this is a healthy lifestyle. It is never too late to make a difference in your life. A healthy diet and working out can help anyone look and feel better. It is up to you to choose the time that you are ready to take charge of your own destiny. I know when I am getting ready to go to a big event or party I like to look my very best and it is only a matter of preservation.


About the Author
FalashaRegina: is a full time student, lover of all things fashion and an avid fashion and trend watcher. She has posted in everything from Women's fashion blogs to forums. To contact her online she is available on twitterand be sure if you are in need of more fashion advice or body shape help feel free to contact her.


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Dress for Your Body Type and Look Fabulous!

By: Cecile Blanco, Image Consultant

Most women realize that choosing clothes that are flattering to their body type is the best way to look great. If you do not pay attention to your body type nor know what it is, the result can be poorly assembled outfits that do not make you look your best.
The tips given here will give you the knowledge necessary to choose the right clothing for you in particular. You´ll be able to dress to flatter your body type easily, rather than staring into your closet wondering what to wear.


Bring Out Your Assets
No matter how many flaws you have or think you have, you also have assets. The best way to look great is to downplay your body flaws and accentuate your assets. For example, if you have great legs, but are a little heavy in the hips, opt for a slender skirt in a darker color to minimize your hips and still show off your nice legs.
Likewise, if you have a good chest and a not so great stomach . . . use a plunging neckline (in moderation please) to show off your asset and distract from your little bulge. Find ways to draw attention to your best parts and you´ll find that you look and feel even better.


Use Color to Change Shape
Your body is probably not perfect – not many are. But a little color goes a long way toward creating the look you want. Dark colors slim, while light colors tend to expand and bright colors draw attention. Use this to your advantage. If you have a pear-shaped body, with wide hips and a narrow top, try using dark-colored pants with a light top to balance things out. A bright scarf will draw attention away from the wider hips and up to your face. This color principle will help you choose clothing to create the perfect look.


Find Flattering Cuts
When choosing pants, look for a cut that will enhance and balance your body type. A small waist and hips look great with tapered pant legs, while a large bottom can be slimmed by choosing a flared skirt or boot cut pants. Likewise, a crisscross or ruffled top will enhance a small chest by adding more bulk, while a plain shirt with only darts will look great on a larger chest. Peasant shirts, which are more flowing, flatter a smaller torso and fitted tops look better on larger women.


Use Accessories to Your Advantage
Accessories are your new best friends! Not only do they help distract from areas you don´t want people noticing, they can really add flair to your wardrobe and help you make your clothes look better on you. For example, if you are quite tall and want to look a little shorter, a wide belt can help create that illusion by providing a “cutting” line at your waist, which stops the eye. When the eye can move the length of the body without interruption, this creates the illusion of length, so it stands to reason that a belt that creates an interruption would cause the body to appear shorter.

Knowing how to choose clothes that enhance your body type will result in a boost in confidence. You´ll end up wearing outfits that look excellent on your body and leave you feeling great. The best way to get started is to use the above guidelines to get rid of any clothing that doesn´t suit your body type and then hit the stores to find something that does suit you. Once you have redesigned your wardrobe, there will be no more wondering which outfit will look alright on you . . . everything will be just right. If you need assistance auditing your wardrobe and going shopping, call your local image consultant! It will be worth the investment.


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Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Dress for Your Body Type and Look Fabulous! by Cecile Blanco, Image Consultant


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