Reader Request: How to Look Taller

I got an email request from Melanie a few weeks ago,

I'm 5'8" tall, but I feel like I photograph much shorter . I know that you can change your camera angle to look taller, but I was curious (aside from wearing a completely monochromatic outfit) what are some different styles I can try to look taller? Do you know any look-taller style secrets?

Thanks,
Melanie

Here are a few tips for looking as long and lean as possible:

• Go monochromatic.
• Contrast color or texture with a an open blazer or cardigan for maximum vertical lines.
• Any stripes on the garment should be vertical.
• Match tights to skirt or pant and shoe color (or opt for a nude shoe with bare legs).
• Use long necklaces or pendants and avoid chokers.
• Wear skirts that are longer than they are wide.
• Choose shoes with at least an inch heel: the taller the better.
• Elongate the neck with V-necks.
• Make sure you stand up straight!

{tights, pinstripe shirt, nude shoes}
Do you guys have any tips to share for looking tall? Leave 'em below.

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Style File: Jessica {Tunics & Belts}

Some of you may remember my post for Jessica last week. She's a lowered figured gal trying to learn the best way to wear skinny jeans. Go to that post to read about my tips for finding skinny jeans that work. She continued her email with this question,

What types of tops are good for a pear like me to wear with skinny jeans?

My tips on what to pair with skinny jeans for the pear:

• Keep your tops light & bright. Feel free to add color and pattern liberally to elevate attention from your bottom half.
• Accentuate your waist, as it's one of your best assets

A great way to minimize the transition from your itsy waist to your fuller hips is to wear a tunic length top. And don't forget to cinch your smallest point with a belt.

Here are a few tunic finds:


1 - Abstract Tunic Set - Kohl's - $16.80 (Orig. $42.00)
2 - Striped 3/4 Sleeve Shirt - Forever 21 - $13.50
3 - Geometric Tunic - Kohl's - $14.40 (Orig. $36.00)
4 - Drawstring Striped Tunic - Forever 21 - $11.50
5 - Striped Ruffled Tunic - Kohl's - $15.20 (Orig. $38.00)
6 - Lauren Conrad Roll-Tab Henley Tunic - Kohl's - $21.99 (Orig. $38.00)

And a few fun belts to mix and match with them:


1 - Wide Woven Belt - Forever 21 - $4.50
2 - Studded Metallic Belt - Forever 21 - $14.80
3 - Mini Braid Belt - DownEast Basics - $14.99
4 - Criss Cross Belt - DownEast Basics - $14.99
5 - Sliced Front Elastic Belt - Forever 21 - $7.80
6 - Patent Bow Belt - Forever 21 - $5.80

What do you think of this look? Is it something you would wear? Tips to impart on dressing a lower figure body?

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

{If you are interested in hiring me as a personal style consultant, email me for rates}

Style File: Jessica {Skinny Jeans}

I got an email from Jessica last week. She was hoping for a little help.

My name is Jessica. I've been following and enjoying your blog for a year now. Now, I need your help.

This is the thing:

I am 35 years old and a TOTAL pear shape. I am a 8-10 on the bottom and small-medium on top. I am self conscious about my larger rear end. And I feel like I'm at the point where I have to start making sure I'm not dressing too young. So my issue?

Skinny jeans.

I know they are everywhere. I know they are what's in style. I don't feel like they are the best look for my body but I have been wearing them in the winter with long cardigans and boots over and feel pretty good about them when I've got them all covered up.

Now...what do I about spring/summer? [...]

My advice to her was to buy slim straight leg jeans. They still offer the same tailored look, without calling as much attention the the hips. My favorite pair around right now are these Ann Taylor's:


They were on sale for just $39.99 (Orig. $88). They have since sold out.

Here are a few other straight leg denim options:


1 - Colorwashed Jeans - Spiegel - $39.99 (Orig. $69.00)
2 - Manhattan Wash Modern Slim Jeans - Dillard's - $35.70 (Orig. $59.50)
3 - Modern Straight Leg Denim Pants - Ann Taylor - $39.99 (Orig. $85.00)

I think if your proportions lean toward being lower figured (not sure? click here to find out), you should keep a few things in mind.
-Dark wash jeans will minimize hips and legs.
-Avoid washes with fading or whiskering, as they will draw attention to your lower half.

And, lastly I will say this about pear shaped women wearing slim cut jeans. If you do not feel confident and attractive in this style, don't wear it! Sometimes, all it takes is carrying yourself as though you are the most beautiful woman in the room. In Nina Garcia's book, Little Black Book of Style, she says,

"I marvel at a six-foot tall woman in stilettos, a big bottom woman in a curve hugging skirt, a flat chested woman in a tight, low-cut t-shirt. When a woman embraces her imperfections, they can become her greatest strengths, definers of her character and spirit."

I will continue with Jessica's style file next week.

What do you think of skinny jeans? Are you lower figured and rock this style? Leave a comment!
Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

{If you are interested in hiring me as a personal style consultant, email me for rates}

Hair Pin Styling Tips

After posting about Susan's Beehive Bazaar outfit last week, many of you commented that you don't know how to wear that kind of hair pin. I thought I would show you my favorite way to wear them.

Here are a few visual guidelines from Miss Zooey Deschanel herself {from this fantastic fansite}:


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I took these very pictures to my hairdresser last time I got a cut. I love the contrast of the yellow flowers against her hair.


{image}
I like the fact that this bow pin is a bit of a throwback to childhood. I think it's adorable paired with her sophisticated sheath.

I also think it would be great to throw one on to accessorize a loose side bun.

Here are a few different hair pin options (all under just $6!):


1 - Rosette Bobby Pin - Forever 21 - $5.80
2 - Satin Grosgrain Bow Pins - Forever 21 - $1.50
3 - Leather Poppy Hair Pins - DownEast Basics - $3.99
4 - Fab Bow Hair Clips - Forever 21 - $1.50
5 - Fab Dainty Satin Bobby Pins - Forever 21 - $1.50
6 - Metallic Bow Hair Clips - Forever 21 - $2.50

What do you think of hair pins like this? Is this a look you would wear?

Thanks for reading

Happy Shopping!

Statement Necklace Styling Tips

After posting about statement necklaces earlier this week, many of you commented that even though you admire the look, you don't know how to wear it. I decided I would give some advice on how to best pull off the style.

Here are a few guidelines {link}:

1. Avoid mixing prints with statement necklaces. Solid tops and dresses in simple silhouettes and neutral shades will ensure that your necklace remains the center of attention.
2. Keep your neckline simple. Complicated necklines will interfere with your jewelry. Scoop, V-neck, and crew-neck styles work best to show off your neck area.
3. Limit other accessories. For example, avoid wearing chunky bangles, long dangling earrings, and trendy hair accessories in order to keep the focus on the necklace.
4. Keep in mind the proportions of the necklace and your body. If you're petite, then a necklace that drapes to your waist can make you look shorter. If you're long-waisted, then opt for a longer style.
5. Keep your hair simple and tamed. This will allow your necklace to take center stage.
6. Remember, it's a statement necklace, so let it do the talking.

Here is an outfit I put together around one of the necklaces from earlier this week.


Flower Statement Necklace - JC Penney - $14.44 (Orig. $34.00) {using coupon code SUR10MAR for an extra 15% off}
Casual Cotton Tee - Forever 21 - $4.50
Flirt Boot-Cut Jeans - Old Navy - $29.50
Faux-Leather Cross-Strap Wedges - Old Navy - $29.50
TOTAL: $77.94

A simple tee and dark rinse boot cut jean make for a great canvas for displaying the beautiful necklace. I added a bit of a punch with the teal platforms that tie into the necklace coloring.

So, what do you think of the tips? Does this look seem like something that you could wear? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Reader Request: Pregnancy Transition Tops

I got this email request from Kelsey,

Hi, I absolutely adore your blog! You are a genius. Just wondering if you could help me find some clothes. I'm 5 months prego but not really showing, and I'm wondering if you could find some flowy, baggy...not form fitting tops that are cute! I can't seem to find anything I'm needing! I don't want it to hug my body, cause then I just look like I ate too much :) But I don't want to look like a fatty either. AGHHHHHHHHHH HELP!!!

Thanks,
Kelsey
a.k.a. still wanting to stylish prego

First, how jealous am I that she is hardly showing at 5 months? I have about 3 inches of torso, and am sure this will not be the case for me! Anyhoo, here is what I found for Kelsey.

Pretty Poinsettia Top - Down East Basics - $9.99 (Orig. $24.99) (use coupon code YEAR END)
Perfect Portrait Top - Down East Basics - $10.99 (Orig. $22.99) (use coupon code YEAR END)
Box Pleat Top- Shade Clothing - $14.99 (Orig. $36.50)


Water Painted Floral Top - Forever 21 - $17.80
Whispy Rosette Top - Forever 21 - $17.80
Metallic-Jacquard Gauze Keyhole Top - Old Navy - $10.99 (Orig. $26.50)


Pleated Split-Neck Tunic - Old Navy - $26.50
3/4-Sleeve Tops - Old Navy - $9.99 (Orig. $26.50) {look at the 'tall' sizes, more color options are available, and it will allow for more panel coverage}
Gauze Shirt - Old Navy - $9.99, $7.99 (Orig. $24.50) {same tip as above with 'tall' sizes}

What do you think of my picks? Have any pregnancy clothing transition tips to share? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Reader Request: Casual Holiday Party

I got a request a few weeks ago (good thing she was proactive and asked early, because I am a wee bit behind) from Elise,

I've been reading your blog for a while now and love it! ... I will be attending a Christmas dinner party for my husband's new job. It's a small company, and the party will be held in a home, so it won't require formal attire. From talking with another spouse, I have the impression that the women will likely wear things like pants and sweaters/blouses. I have some options in my closet but feel blah about them. I'd love to get something new that makes me feel confident. And I'd love for it to be fun and fashionable with maybe a touch of sparkle but not so "holiday-ish" that I can't wear it at other times. And obviously I don't want to break the bank. Have you seen anything lately that would fit the bill? Thanks for your advice!

I think this is the best kind of Holiday party to go to. Nobody has to buy a fancy dress that they will never wear again, but every body has a chance to wear something that makes them feel fabulous. I wish I had one of these to attend.

This is what I came up with:


-Fab Ankle Capri Pant - Forever 21 - $15.50 (I say this is good alternative to the drool worthy Minnie pant over at J.Crew [which rings in at $89.50])
-Fiona Frill Stretch Top - Forever 21 - $15.80 - I just love these all-over vertical ruffles
-Removable Pin Cardigan (shown without pin) - Forever 21 - $15.80
-Satin Bow Pump - Spiegle - $34.00 (Orig. $49.00) - Isn't there something so feminine about an open toe embellished heel? I would love to own a pair, this pair perhaps....

What do you think? Is this something you guys would wear? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Reader Request: Harness Boot Styling

I got a request from Lindsey a few weeks ago saying:

I received [a pair of Harness] Fryes last year for Christmas, but I am having a problem feeling feminine in them. Could you give me an idea of how I could wear these tough boots, without looking like a tough cowboy myself?

I honestly never wear or look to wear these type of boots because they are more masculine, and frankly just slightly out of my comfort zone. But, I have a very good friend (Ali) who has a pair of these boots, and they are her go-to footwear option for winter. So, I am taking cues from things I have seen her pair with her boots.

Harnesses look great paired with skinnies (denim, pants, or leggings) tucked in. Here is an option I like:


Skinny Stretch Pant - Forever 21 - $17.80

Also, a great tip to help balance out the heaviness of the boot is to keep the top light and flowy in a feminine fabric. Here are a few choices:


1 - Ethnic Print Tunic - Forever 21 - $24.80
2 - Geo Shapes Silk Top - Forever 21 - $29.80
3 - Water Painted Floral Top - Forever 21 - $17.80
4 - Luciana Floral Chiffon Top - Forever 21 - $17.80

What do you think? Is this something you would wear? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

Style Inspiration: Colored Tights

I got this email from Reva:

I ADORE the styles that the main character wears in Errand of Angels and wish I could do the colored tights look. But I don't know what the rules are for accesorizing with them - what shoes to wear, what colors with what?? Could you help me with a sample outfit I could try? Thanks so much!!

Colored tights have been all over the place for awhile now. From Gossip Girl to the runways, to the Errand of Angels (although sisters SO CANNOT wear brightly colored tights, haha).

I think colored tights are great, but I like to keep them on the understated side. If my tights are speaking loud, I let them carry the color of the ensemble. Here's an example of an outfit I would wear with colored tights:

Lace Cropped Cardigan - Charlotte Russe - $26.99
Calvin Klein Button Front Cap Sleeve Dress - Overstock - $29.99
Solid Tights - Old Navy - $6.50
Anstin Point Flat - Payless Shoesource - $19.99

What do you think of the outfit? Colored tights? If you wear them, leave your tips!

Also, here are a few links on other ways to wear colored tights (some of them are a lot more daring!)

1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Thanks for reading and happy shopping!

Cowboy Boot Styling Tips

I got a request from Sara a few weeks ago, saying:

My family recently moved to Austin, TX and I found a great pair of cowboys boots. Problem is, I don't really know what to wear them with now that I have them. I know I could always pair them with jeans, but I'm wondering if they would look okay with a dress? Do you have any suggestions on things I could buy to wear them with now for fall that won't be crazy expensive? I would love any advice or tips you could give me.

I have seen cowboy boots all over the place lately, and I don't even live in Texas. Last week, a girl crossed the street in front of my car wearing a sleek pair of black cowboy boots and a simple black sweater dress.

So, here are just a few ideas to pair your boots with this fall:


1 - Turtle Neck Sweater Dress - Target - $40.00 (Orig. $59.99)
2 - Belted Cowl Dress - Charlotte Russe - $24.99
3 - Ruffle Wrap Dress - Target - $29.99


4 - Tabitha Rolled Shirt - Forever 21 - $19.90
5 - Belted Wrap Sweater - Forever 21 - $34.00
6 - Slub Shawl Cardigan - Forever 21 - $17.80
7 - Seamless Leggings - Charlotte Russe - $7.99
8 - Five Pocket Skinny Jean - Forever 21 - $9.50

I think something to keep in mind when wearing your boots is to keep "country" out of the rest of your look. This will keep your outfit from encroaching on costume territory.

What do you all think of cowboy boots? Any tips for wearing them? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading, and as always,

Happy Shopping!

Check it Out: One shirt, Seven Days

Did you all see Shade's clever post on how to wear their striped oxford 7 different ways?


It's a great post and I think it's worth a look. Find it here.

Pencil Skirt Styling Tips

Last week, I did a post on pencil skirts. A few of you mentioned being admirers not wearers and I am hoping to change your minds! Also, Jessica asked if I could help with some ideas on what to wear a pencil skirt with, as she has gotten back into form after baby #5. (Hooray!)

Here are a few different ideas:

{1, 2, 3, 4}
America Ferrera's colored top has the most beautiful neckline, which draws attention to her beautiful face!

Angelina Jolie's blousy top is cinched with a thin tonal belt. This can give shape to a thick middle without calling attention to it.

Victoria Beckham knows how to rock a pencil skirt! Here she pairs it with a fitted button-up (the classic pencil skirt combination).

From J.Crew is an offbeat pairing of tweed pencil skirt and graphic tee. I may not make this exact pairing, but I love the idea of wearing a simple tee (or possibly an embellished one) tucked into a pencil skirt.

Here are a few tops to pair with pencils:


1 - Upper Lattice Woven Top - Forever 21 - $22.80
2 - Striped Jersey Blouse - Tulle - $16.00 (Orig. $40.00)
3 - Long Sleeve Oxford - Shade - $36.50
4 - Watercolor Graphic Tee - Old Navy - $14.50

Also, don't forget your body shape. If you are a pear (not sure?, click here to find out), you need to keep a few things in mind. Your hips and thighs are the widest part of your body, and you don't want to draw too much attention to that. Wear a bit of volume and color on top to draw the eye up. Also, make sure your skirt doesn't cut in too much at the hem. You want a skirt that is more straight, or one that actually flairs a bit at the bottom.

What's your favorite way to wear a pencil skirt? Leave a comment!

Thanks for reading, and as always,

Happy Shopping!