Pay it Forward...

This has absolutely nothing to do with fashion, but I had to share!

I just had an absolutely wonderful experience...I went to Starbucks next to my store, as I do most mornings, and waited patiently on the never ending line.  Once I got to place my order I was astonished when the girl at the register said "an anonymous member of the community has decided to pay for everyone's breakfast this morning."

As she handed me this...
 (sorry it's such a bad pic)

she continued
"please do something nice for someone else today"

Priceless advice.

Spring Cleaning

The history of spring cleaning is a bit more involved than many of us probably think...if you're interested in learning more, check out this article... About Spring Cleaning from TLC's How Stuff Works

Whatever the origin, and whether or not you practice this old tradition I think it's important we engage for the sake of our closets...not only will it make our significant others happy, but it will help you justify those new purchases you just have to make :)

Here's a list of some things you should get rid of (donate) today!

- Anything you haven't worn within the last year...no matter what your reasoning for it. 
- Your "fat" clothes.  All of us women are guilty of having an array of sizes in our closet for all of our weight fluctuations.  Here's a tip, if you don't have the larger sizes to move into, you'll be sure to cut back as soon as your current clothes get a little tight.  Still can't part with them, take them to the tailor and get them altered to the right size.
- Reverse fit jeans.  These should have all been thrown out years ago, but I figured I'd throw it in there, just in case.
- Sheer stockings.  Ladies it's 2010, the rules of covered legs do not apply anymore.  Go bare, or dark, textured etc.  I promise, no matter the quality, they do not look natural.  Worried about blemishes on your legs?  Get a tinted moisturizer, it will give you a hint of color, even out your skin tone and mask blemishes.
- Pleated Pants...these look good on no one.  There is no need to add bulk to our  midsections.  Opt for flat front instead.  This goes for men as well.
-White pumps...yes I know, the 80's are having a moment right now, but white pumps, they must be put to rest forever.  Replace them with a nude pump...these will blend into your foot giving you a fabulous long leg line, and they go with everything!  For white, stick to a strappy sandal, wedge, or wooden slide.
-Oversized t-shirts, sweats, etc.  I promise you, wearing oversized and baggy clothes does not make you look thinner, you are not hiding under them...they are adding bulk and making yourself look bigger.  (This is the same principle as pleats)
- Anything that does not fit and flatter...having trouble deciding if a particular item does this?  Bring it on it to the store and we'll help you figure it out!

Did I forget anything?
 

XOXO
J

Check Mate

Gingham is back! Whether you're going for a picnic in the park, or a trip over the rainbow gingham is a must have this spring.

Afraid of looking like your great aunt's tablecloth? No worries, pair this top from WeSc with crisp white for a sophisticated look. Denim from Hudson, linen from Sanctuary, or even this blazer from Priorities will do the trick.

Want a younger more playful look? Get this tube dress from Dora Landa, the ruffle hem gives a modern twist on a classic print.

Keep the shoes earthy, think espadrilles, or any wedge with a cork or straw bottom. Feeling fashion forward? How about a pair of ruby slippers a la Dorothy? Too much? Red patent leather should suffice.

xoxo
J

Does size matter?

I've worked with women all shapes and sizes throughout my career and one of the many things they all have in common are their aversion to what's printed on the tag, and no I'm not talking about the price.

I'm here to tell you, it's not about the size! Ladies, I have confidence that intellectually you know this is true. We are emotional creatures, but we need to get over it :) Every vendor fits their items differently, fabrics, dyes, all those things have influence on how clothing fits. Ever notice that the same item different colors can fit differently?  I promise this is true!

Remember what matters the most is cut and fit. Don't be surprised if things don't fit you off the rack, always fit the largest part of you...and tailor the rest. The difference will amaze you. I know I know, it's one more step, and additional dollars...but if you're spending $150+ on a blazer, don't you want it to look like it was made for you?

Clothing that fits you correctly not only makes you look smaller, but it'll will make you feel fabulous and confident, and put a spring in your step.

Still can't take that ugly number staring back at you?  Instead of passing up on a potentially fabulous garment...cut the tag out!

xoxo
J

Panty Faux Pas

The dreaded VPL (visible panty line) has been a problem for us women as long as we can all remember...in this day in age, with all of the choices we have there is no excuse!

Just like with any other piece of clothing cut and fit are extremely important. Not only will it help you win your battle against VPL, but underwear have the ability to make you look thinner.

Here are a few things to keep in mind the next time you stock up...

1. Buy a size bigger than you think you need. This will keep them from digging in and giving you lumps, bumps, and muffin top. Plus: Undies are notorious for shrinking in the wash.

2. Pay attention to the rise just as you would a pair of jeans. This is especially true if you want to camouflage your tummy...higher rise = smoother silhouette.

3. If you have fleshy hips, look for a panty with a thicker strap. Again, this will keep them from digging in.

4. When wearing white...DO NOT wear white undies! This is a common misconception. In order for your panties to remain invisible they must match your skin tone!

5. Thongs are a must have! There are so many different options, you are bound to find one that is comfortable...no more excuses!

6. If you must do full-butt undies, as I call them, make sure it is full enough to cover your entire cheek. This is a must, otherwise they will ride and bunch and it defeats the purpose. Your best bet is to save these for short dresses/skirts. Same rules apply for the boy-short.

7. You should invest in different fabrications. Cottons work best under heavier garments such as denim. But for more form fitting slinkier fabrics, your underwear should be slinky as well, cottons will cause friction and it the garment will stick.

8. Last but not least - when in doubt...go without! Not only can you be completely confident that you have won the battle against VPL, but you'll feel sexier and walk taller.

Not quite ready to go truly commando? Get these:

"...cutting edge underwear. With invisible edges and a patented stretch fabric, commando feels and looks like nothing, but is better than nothing."

*Bonus: They are made right here in the USA!