6 Fashion Tips to Looking Trimmer

As the weather around us starts to heat up, we all have that thought of spring and summer on the mind.  This brings us to think of how our bare arms and a little leg are going to look out in the sun after burrowing up all winter long?  Well ladies, don’t fret yet.  Here are some fashion tips to help you look trimmer and feel more confident no matter what season we are in.

It’s all about choosing wisely and getting a little creative when selecting your best look outfits.  Sometimes this can be challenging with trends and styles always changing.  But remember, just because something might be the hottest trend, does not mean you have to adopt it.  Especially if it does not make you feel flattering or good about yourself.  There are some ways to incorporate different style trends and, of course, classic looks that will help you to shed away the pounds and show off your best features.  Try some of the following tricks that will even have you taking a second glance at yourself when you strut your stuff:

• Thank goodness the days of belly shirts and shorter cuts are long gone!  The longer shirts have made way for women to feel lengthened and slimmer.  Also, try asymmetrical stripes and tunics that have a lengthening and slimming effect and are very fashionable for this spring.  Try wearing a sheer blouse with a matching color tank to create a slenderized look and at the same time bring a little color into your wardrobe.
• When it comes to jeans, we are always asking ourselves, “What pair make my legs look great”? Jeans are such a tricky clothing article and in most cases is a very individual preference, no matter what the current trend might be.  The best rule of thumb when it comes to denim is to make sure it does not cut you in the wrong spots or problem areas.  For instance, make sure the waistline does not cut into your midriff to create a muffin top look or create rolls where they are not needed or seen under your blouse.  Most of the time if you select a waistline that fits low on the hips and right below the navel, it will help to create a more slenderized look and slimmer midriff.  If you do find that your jeans often cut into extra belly fat, make sure to have a more relaxed fit, rather than trying to squeeze yourself into a pair that is going to leave you uncomfortable and bulging.  Make sure to pay attention to front pleats that also have the ability to make your legs look larger and pockets that can hit troublesome areas.  Staying clear of bulky pockets can sometimes keep areas that you want to bring less attention to look flatter Check out Not Your Daughter’s Jeans at Macy’s.
• One of the simplest tricks and oftentimes the one that gets overlooked the most is to just make sure your clothes fit!  Try to stay away from convincing yourself that you are going to fit back into that pair of pants that fit either pre-pregnancy or in your slimmest years.  Or worse yet, put on a pair of slacks or blouse that is baggy and oversized to try and hide the weight that you want to disguise.  Wearing clothes too tight or too big just does no justice for anyone!  Wear clothes that are your size and then just accessorize your more flattering areas.  Sure we all have that body part we wish would hide itself in pictures, but don’t forget we all have promising features too.   Focus on those parts, rather on the areas to cover up.  For instance, if you have great arms, don’t be afraid to wear a sleeveless shirt.  Or if you are self-conscious of your legs, wear more accessories up top, such as long necklaces, scarves, and patterned tops to bring the focus to your upper body.  Check out First Impression’s services to assist you in this area.
• Pay attention to the way you wear your hair.  If you seem to be concentrating lately on those extra wrinkles around the face or drooping areas, start thinking about styling your hair up and away from the face if you have a style that allows you to do so.  If you still have long locks, you may even want to try a slick ponytail that is very in and creates a classic youthful look, check out this video.  Pulling the hair away from your face can also pull away the pounds.  It also looks great with a high neck or halter top if you are clear of double chins.  In which case, try wearing boat neck tops, such as this top from New York & Company and jazz it up with a fun necklace. This will give you a little more room to this area.  For those that have a rounder looking face, try the ever so fashionable wisky bang look and long soft curls, such as Brooke Burke’s hairstyle that gives a nice wave to your locks.  This trendy hairstyle on any aged woman can make a round face look not so round.
• How high can you go?  Now I know when it comes to heels there is just so much some of us can actually take. But, it is important to remember that a heel can add great length to your body, especially for some of us that may not have those long stems.  Heels can also add that extra bit of flair to a casual jean outfit or, of course, a spring dress, like these ones from Anne Taylor Loft.  If you feel that you have thicker legs or are worried about the size of your ankles, try to stay clear of clogs or bulky heeled shoes.  Try instead to wear a more open exposed front shoe, pointy toe heel, or flat, or even nude colors to add a daintier and slimmer effect to your feet.
• Undo your belt loops!  One of this season’s hottest trends that have women of all ages accessorizing outside of the box is the belt.  Yes, of course, we still need it for those certain types of pants, but belts of all sizes and textures can now slenderize your outfit and give you that extra fashion flair.  Check out this fun article that will show you different types of belts to wear with different outfits and leave you looking thinner at the same time, click here.

Sometimes those extra hours spent at the gym or dieting, can be swapped out for just a few tricks of just knowing how to accessorize right and change the way you wear certain articles of clothes.  But, beyond all of these tricks, don’t forget to remember the positive parts of your body that you want to show-off.  Training ourselves to be confident of what we do like about ourselves will help to overcome certain insecurities and will be your best trick yet!

Now that I’ve shared my tricks on how to look trimmer, let’s hear your slenderizing secrets.  Share your tricks by leaving a comment below.

Peggy

 

How to Look Chic All Tied Up

Scarves, we used to wear them exclusively for warmth during those frigid winter nights, but now ladies, this fashion essential is sure to jazz up any outfit.  That’s right SCARVES!  No longer are they the cold weather “go to”, but rather a fashion trend that can be worn during any season.  But before you get all tied up, there are some important tips to pay attention to when deciding what scarf to add to an outfit and how to wear it.  Here are a few things to remember:

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The Do’s

• If you are going to wear a scarf, make sure to make it your spotlight accessory.  There is a lot of attention that comes with wearing a scarf and it has the ability to make an outfit standout for everyone to remember!  In some cases, the scarf may be the only accessory you need to complete a sophisticated look for a standout outfit.
   
• Do wear a flattering color when deciding what scarf to wear.  Remember, this accessory is worn right up against your face, so don’t forget what colors are in your palette.  When worn as the right color, your scarf is sure to make your eyes, hair color, and skin tone shine!
   
• Go for the different fabrics and play up a little “mix & match”!  A knit scarf on a leather jacket for example, can give a different vibe to your outfit.  Do be cautious of color schemes and to make sure you keep it classy and not chaotic.  For instance, wearing the same color of tone in your scarf with an outfit often works best when wearing neutral colors.
   
• Have fun with different prints!  Especially, if you are planning on wearing a solid color dress, long jacket, or sweater, a printed scarf can make the outfit really pop.  This is where seasons can really influence the textures and prints you are wearing.  
   
• Scarves can be worn for more formal affairs.  For instance, it can be the perfect accessory to add warmth and texture to a dress, when worn as more of a shawl or draped across the shoulders. 

The Don’ts

• Don’t over accessorize.  Yes, earrings can always tie in nicely with a scarf or even some bangle bracelets.  But remember, the scarf is the eye catching item to your outfit, so don’t go overboard and overwhelm it with everything else you put on. 
   
• Don’t just throw on any old scarf to an outfit.  First, make sure it fits the outfit.  The scarf should not be an afterthought, but rather well thought out.  Remember, it can make any outfit, but it can sure break it as well!
   
• Don’t overdo an outfit with a scarf.  Wearing a scarf can already be a bold look, so if you have on a bold outfit and one with a lot going on, especially up top- it may not be the best idea to overwhelm it with one more thing.
   
• A scarf can’t always s be an outfit saver.   For instance, if you have on a frumpy top and add a scarf to try and cover up the look, it may not be the lifesaver you were looking for. Especially, if the scarf is more fitted or even thin, it may make the top look more oversized than to begin with.   

The bottom line is, a scarf can bring out the most potential in an outfit, but like anything it is all in how you wear it!  Now that I have given my scarf advisory with you on some of the “do’s” and “don’ts” when it comes to scarf wearing, the picture on the right are some looks to try to fit your style preference. Even go as bold as to tie a scarf to your purse, around your ponytalk – or in some cases – used as a belt for that extra fashion flair!

Check out this video here, by Glamour Magazine to find even more fun ways to incorporate a scarf into your outfit!

I’ve shared my tied up secrets, now let’s hear yours!  What are your tips or questions when it comes to scarf wearing?  Leave a comment below…

 Peggy

 

5 Fashionable Resolutions for 2011

That’s right!   The ball has finally dropped and the parties are all wrapped up, so what does the New Year have in store for us now… that infamous word RESOLUTIONS.  Well, you have probably by now already stumbled across that nagging thought we all get this time of year, which is to hit the gym more or not indulge in that after dinner dessert.  But, why not do something this year to empower yourself, and let’s be honest, make you feel better rather than overtaken before 2011 even gets rolling.

I challenge you to start this year by doing something bold and fashionable.  Start the New Year off with a new and improved you and then see all the great things you are capable of achieving!

Here are my five tips on how you can incorporate resolutions into the New Year that will leave you feeling great about yourself and, of course, fabulous:

1. Purge Your Closet: That’s right ladies… out with the old and in with the new!  A closet that could swallow you up and drawers overflowing is no way to begin the New Year.  Take the time to go through your clothes and get rid of those items that seem to never make their way off the hanger.  When contemplating which items to discard ask yourself the following questions: Does it fit me? Am I comfortable in it? Does it look good on me? Does it make me feel good about myself? You want to be able to answer yes to all these questions. Don’t keep something in your closet that makes you feel self-conscious or, better yet, uncomfortable.  Do a good deed and donate these items to someone who may get better use out of them.  At the end of the day there might be that little bit of extra space that doesn’t make you feel guilty by adding some new items to your wardrobe!

2. Toss Out Old Cosmetics: How long has that crusty mascara been sitting in your make-up bag?  We’ve all done it, but now is the time to do something about it.  After going through your products and parting ways with the ones that do none of us any favors, get inspired to make a trip or appointment with your favorite cosmetic specialist and find out about new products for the season.  Getting a new lipstick or eye shadow, can give you that extra glow you need to start the New Year off right!

3. The Little Black Shoe: So, maybe they are heals or flats, or possibly even not black, but that favorite shoe we all have and wore into the ground throughout 2010, may need to be put to rest.  Treat yourself to a new fresh pair for the New Year.  Those after Christmas sales won’t say 70% off for long!  Get out there while the sales are still going on and get that pair that will get you stepping in the right direction for what the New Year has in store.

4. What’s Your Color: Whether you look better in warms, cools, or other types of colors get some accessories to add to your wardrobe this year that will spruce up your look.  Don’t be afraid of color or play it safe in that all black outfit.  If you are dressed in the right colors, people will see more of you than the clothes you are wearing.

5. Live Healthy: So we now have moved away from the “stand alone resolution” that says we need to lose x amount of inches or pounds in the New Year.  Instead of focusing on the losing, why not tune into the gaining.  That’s right!  Why not add some more healthy choices to your grocery list each week or plan to increase the amount of exercise you are already doing by one day or one hour.  By taking small strides to incorporate healthy choices into your daily routine, you will end up gaining the confidence you need to make this a year long journey, rather than an overnight crash diet.

So, there you have it! Five quick and easy resolutions that will get you off to a 2011 fashionable start.  It would not be fair to leave you with these challenges without challenging myself as well. So, this year I plan to bring you weekly tips and updates through my blog that will leave you with a lasting impression… Stay tuned and Happy New Year!

What will be your fashion statement for 2011?  Leave a comment below.

Peggy

 

The Magic of Color

Did you know that most women wear only 20% of their wardrobe 80% of the time?

Why is that?  It probably has a lot to do with how good one feels in a particular outfit.  Break that down a little more and it has to do with how good one feels in a particular style.  Break that down still more, and it has to do with how good one feels in a certain color. 

Color can be magical or it can be detrimental.  Seeing a splash of color emerge from a mostly monochromatic group (black is so popular…) is like a breath of fresh air.  But if the color is the wrong shade for our skin tones, you will likely appear sickly and sallow.  Rather than projecting a put-together look, the “off” color now translates that you are not at the top of your game.  Silly, but sadly true. 

The Power of Color

So, let’s address the power of “color.”  By dressing within a particular color palette, shopping will be easier, saves time and is cost effective.  You will save time by not trying on every piece that catches your eye ~ you will only select those that actually work with you skin tones.  Those colors will be your personal best because they are in your particular color palette.  No longer will you bring home “mistakes” that only go with a few things, or don’t go with hardly anything at all.  Every piece you purchase will coordinate with existing pieces and easily build your wardrobe. 

How does color work exactly? When you wear color near your face, the light reflects it upwards. This can cast  flattering shades, which creates a very healthy tone on your skin.  Your eyes sparkle and radiate energy.  Or, if it’s the wrong shade of color, dark shadows will appear under your eyes, your skin will appear blotchy and uneven, and sometimes your eye color practically disappears. Thus the importance of comprehending the undertone of your skin shade and what is the best color palette for you. 

Communicating Non-Verbal Messages

There is also a psychological aspect to color and the colors you wear can communicate non-verbal messages of all kinds.  Soft and light tones, for example, will make you appear approachable and friendly. A red top in the right shade will help give you the confidence you need when facing a stressful situation.  Conversely, wearing a color that is “not your color” or unattractive with your skin and eyes, can make you appear harsh and ever unapproachable.  

Take Account Your Skin Tones

Once you know your most flattering colors, you can apply this knowledge to your jewelry and make-up.  And yes, consideration of  metals in jewelry does matter.  If one’s skin tones are cool, select silver and pewter metal jewelry.  If warm skin tones, gold and copper metals will look best. How do you know if you have cool or warm coloring? The expertise of an image and color consultant can easily answer that question.  

What’s in your closet? Are you wearing everything in your closet or just your “feel good” outfits?

Peggy

Follow this link to view some of the new braclets I have this week!

 

The Ears Have It!

Let’s talk earrings.  A fun use of any jewelry accessory can change a ho-hum outfit into a more dynamite look.  Pearl studs are always in fashion when worn with traditional or conservative styles, but can become very OL (old lady) and even dull when worn all the time.  And, “wide gold hoops engraved with fancy twirly lines worn next to a small gold hoop, next to a stud is very popular, very pedestrian and very ugly”, say the Trinny Woodall and Susannah Constantine from Britain’s “What Not to Wear.”  

So, how does one know what is considered dull and what style earring translates as fashion?  Do you consider the outfit?  Do you consider the haircut?  Do you consider your face bone structure?  Does it really matter?  Yes, yes, yes and yes. Primarily, one needs to consider the shape of the face, the length of the neck, the number of chins, (sorry) when selecting just the right earring.   So, what do you look for?  Happily, longer faces can easily wear the chandelier earring as well as the stud.  Why is that? Because the longer facial structure has the wonderful expanse of cheekbone that accommodates the longer dangle.  Conversely, the stud creates an imaginary horizontal line from ear across to the other ear, giving the illusion of a shorter cheek.  Weird, but it works. Just keep in mind, that unless you are wearing the “real deal”,  don’t go for a dinky scaled stud – that is truly dated and OL.  Have fun with larger more “important” (meaning, large) studs.  

Dangling earrings will make a fuller face appear thinner. (Yea!) It’s all about creating a vertical line along the jawbone.  A smaller earring without movement will draw attention to wider face and round faces should avoid anything that resembles a circular shape or any kind of stud.  These shapes have a tendency to repeat what nature has already created.

Shorter necks are highlighted as being short when dangling drop earrings are worn.  Due to the small neck length, these earrings seems to oddly rest on the shoulder.  Not a good look. 

For a  more interesting choice and to be Y&H (young and hip), if one has smaller bone structure, select small scaled hoops, rather than studs.  Remember, it’s all about movement. 

When dressing professionally, now’s the time to avoid the fancy, dangling earrings ~ it’s difficult to be taken seriously when the earrings are demanding too much attention. To accommodate one’s personal style and the desire to be trendy, it’s best not to focus so much on the ears, but have fun by emphasizing a great necklace, bracelet or brooch. 

What’s in your jewelry box? Leave your comments below!

Peggy

View some of the new earrings I have in my collection.

 

The Warning Signs of Frumpiness

Do you look in the mirror and see a frumpy OL (old lady) looking back at you?  Have you ever tried to pinpoint exactly what that thing is that’s making you think you look so old? Sadly, here are some sure signs that you are beginning to look a bit more like Aunt Agnes, than the Vivica Vixen that you know you still are.  Deborah Boland and JoJami Tyler, known as “the Glam Gals” have some helpful tips for sprucing up and fighting off those OL seeking gremlins.

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1. You look as if you are wearing a tent.

Want to hide that blasted midlife flab? Then, believe it or not, don’t cover up! Baggy and unstructured clothes that hide your entire body actually make you look more OL rather than Y&H (young and hip). Consider the part of your body that you do like and show that part off  (for example, the girls…)  and cover up only the parts you don’t (maybe it’s your hips). Don’t use oversized clothes as a gigantic blanket to hide behind. (Just say no to the muumuu, or anything that resembles it!) Select more fitted clothing that is not tight (also say no to lycra and spandex) but skims your curves and shows off that you are a woman who has some curves.

2. Your teeth are the color of corn.

Stained or yellow teeth make one look very OL, even before one’s time.  But by flashing a set of shiny white teeth, you can easily knock ten years off your look and transfer from OL to Y&H. Fortunately, for a minimum investment, you can restore the whiter smile with at-home-whiteners, a trip to the Mall teeth whitening genies, or the dentist laser treatments.  I’ve found the financial investment is proportionate to the whiteness duration.  In other words, the more that is invested, the longer the white shines.

3. Your glasses don’t say “I’m Y&H”, but instead “OL…sigh”.

Are you still wearing those same old frames you bought ten years ago? Well, guess what, it’s time for a change. When making your next purchase, buy at least 2 frames of distinctly different styles — one that is dressy and one that is casual. By alternating them with different outfits, you’ll look modern and fashionable (Y&H) and not so much dated and the dreaded OL. Make it a girl’s day out and take a stylish friend along to keep you on the Y&H track. It’s easy to get stuck in an eyeglass rut and end up buying more or less the same thing you’ve had before.

4. The “Girls” are headed south

If your breasts are less than perky, it’s time to hoist them up with a supportive bra. Although bras with underwire create an improved lift, nothing creates a change in one’s youth line than a professional bra fitting.  As a general rule, the girls should be halfway between your shoulder and your elbow –  now that’s how to look Y&H!

5. Your lips are dark and scary.

If your lips remind you of the movie stars of the 1940’s, then color is bit too dark and definitely OL. Instead, choose softer, Y&H natural shades of lipstick in pinks and peaches. And as for those boldly lined lips – well, let’s not. When you walk into a room, you want people to notice you, not just your pouty mouth.

Are you ready for a more youthful look? Share your Y & H tips with us by clicking the comment link below!

Peggy

First Impression has fun and exciting jewelry available, with an amazing price point  from $10 to $30.  This week we are featuring colorfil and Y & H watches to compliment any summer outfit.  Most styles come in a variety of color choices.

 

Your skirt is too tight if…

It curves in and clings beneath your bottom.
It “whiskers” in front, that is, the fabric is pulling.
It’s a challenge to walk, bend or sit. 

Over the past few seasons, skirts have been fashionable as minis, pencil, trumpet, peasant, balloon and the dirndl.  Although it’s helpful to know what the current trend is, it’s more important to understand what shape is best for your figure.  Fashion expert, Susan Sommers advises, “You don’t want to embrace every trend as fully as you did when you were younger, because you’ll look like a walking fashion victim.  (Oy.) 

When it comes to pulling together the most becoming skirt “outfit”, it’s all about proportion.  The goal is to have an hourglass figure, so that means either your top half or lower half is highlighted – both pieces cannot be voluminous.  Therefore, a fuller skirt (the balloon, peasant or A-line) must have a more fitted top.  If you don’t follow this principle, you run the risk of looking wide (Not that!).

As a woman becomes more mature, she often will want comfort over what’s stylish at that moment.  However, comfortable doesn’t automatically mean loose.  One can still be comfortable with something that is a little more fitted.  On the other side of the spectrum, if both pieces are too tight – well, let’s just say that isn’t a good look either.  And when it comes to shoes, the formula is simple:  the shorter the skirt, the lower the heel. 

Do: Pair a full, flirty skirt with a fitted T-shirt or tank top.

Don’t:  Pair bulky with bulky, for instance, a big sweater and a full skirt. 

Do:  Try a lightweight blouse under a V-neck sweater with a skirt that is fitted, but not clingy.  If the sweater is shorter than the blouse you can leave the shirt tail out – that’s a Y&H look – but you run risk of creating a second layer of the dreaded horizontal (widening…oh no!) lines around your widest part.

Don’t:  Wear a tight top with a clingy skirt.  That slim pencil skirt won’t have a quality look if worn with a tube top or bustier – but it will look great with a tailored shirt or feminine blouse.

Do: Wear some kind of heel with knee-length skirts.  A totally flat shoe will make an outfit, with even the longest, thinnest legs, look frumpy.

Don’t:  “Wearing stilettos with a super-short skirt – it’s a recipe for disaster – and call girls,” says fashion expert, Charla Krupp. (Ha! Yep, that’s the look I’m goin’ for…) 

Tell us abou your favorite styles of skirts by clicking the comment button below.

Peggy 

First Impression is happy to share more fabulous finds with you – this is just a miniscule sampling of what we offer.  Remember, we pass the value onto you – our pieces are between $10-$30.  How we Fashionistas love a bargain!

Click here to see more!

 

What Maintenance Level are You?

A few weeks ago I blogged about being a high, medium or low maintenance kind of gal.  Depending on your answers, you should have more of an idea about yourself, by taking  this fun little quiz.  Obviously there are no right or wrong answers – by totaling the number of A’s (high maintenance), B’s (medium) and C’s (low), you will have a little more understanding of you.  Have fun.   

1. You wouldn’t consider leaving the house without…

1. Your make-up.
2. Just mascara and lipstick.
3. A clean face.

2. Your bedroom closet…

1. Could be in a magazine.
2. Seasonal cleaning time is here.
3. Still has shoulder-padded blouses.

3. When boarding a plane, you wear…

1. Business Attire.
2. A nice sweater and slacks.
3. Whatever is the most comfortable.

4. You wash your face with…

1. Your dermatologist’s prescription.
2. An expensive brand cleanser.
3. Whatever’s in the soap dish.

5.  At the last-minute you decide to go to a dressy cocktail party. You…

1. Wear that new dress hanging in your closet.
2. Are content with that dressy sweater and black skirt.
3. Because there’s no time to shop and you’ve  nothing to wear, you don’t go.

6. The purse you use everyday…

1. Is one of the many “must have” bags of the moment.
2. Is the one new bag you buy every season.
3. Is the same favorite that you’ve used for years.

7. Your crow’s feet…

1. Are gone.
2. Are occasionally on your mind.
3. Never cross your mind.

8. You have received a gift certificate from a day spa. You…

1. Immediately book a massage, facial or something else.
2. Eventually made an appointment.
3. Either re-gift it or let it expire.

I ended up being a medium maintenance gal – what are you? 

As mentioned in previous blogs, First Impression has added a fun and affordable fashion jewelry collection.  Not only is it distinctive, trendy and stylish, it is also very fairly priced.  We keep all the pieces between $10 ~ $30.  Wow!  Now that makes shopping fun! 

Also, First Impression does online personal shopping for your jewelry accessory needs!  How does that work?  Simply contact us and tell us what you are wanting.  For instance, we recently located a necklace for a client who simply told us she loved owls.  We sent her a variety of owl options, she made her selection via email, and she received her treasured piece within a week.  As they say, “that was easy.”  The best part is there is no obligation – if you like, we will order, if you don’t, simply hit the delete button.

Below is a small sampling of jewelry pieces that can be ordered by First Impression.

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Zebra print necklace: $20.00
Zebra print earrings: $16.00
The Set: $32.00

Cream Pearl stretch bracelet: $17.00

Silver-tone Filigree earrings: $18.00

For more information about these pieces, email me at: peggred@aol.com  Also visit my Jewelry page with more beautiful pieces you can add to your collection.

 

Rules or No Rules?

As a California native, I’ve always heard that “in California, anything goes” when it comes to fashion.  True, or not so much?  Well, sorry to burst your bubble, Californians,  but there are rules, and…they are new rules.  (Great.) 

According to my new BFF, Charla Krupp, a guru in the beauty and fashion industry, she succinctly outlines the “old rules” vs. the “new rules.”  Here is what she said: 

Old rule:  Always match your handbag to your shoes.
New rule: Matchy-matchy will make you look oldie-oldie. (Yucky-yucky) 

Old rule:  Don’t wear black and navy together.
New rule: Mix black with navy – and brown. (Have seen it done and LOVE it!) 

Old rule:  Never mix 2 different prints or patterns in the same outfit.
New rule: Mixed patterns look fresh when matched according to color tones.
(Can be tricky, but really chic when done correctly…) 

Old rule:  Metallic pieces (shoes, belts, handbags) are for evening only.
New rule: Metallics are for day, too.  They’re the new neutral.
(And so much more fun than boring beige or gray!) 

Old rule:  Stockings should be flesh toned.
New rule: Shoes should be flesh toned, legs bare.
(Are you listening, corporate America???  I get it…you are so attached to your nylons!) 

Old rule:  Don’t wear costume jewelry. (Yikes!)
New rule: Faux can be fantastic – just don’t blab about it.
(And nothing would please me more than to help you with that! Check out some jewelry pieces here.)

Old rule:  Jeans are for daytime only.
New rule: Jeans are hot and sexy for evening- with heels and an embellished top.
(Avoid the lighter or stone washed jeans (OL), and only choose the darkest shades to be Y&H.)   

What new rules do you have? Make your comments below!

Peggy

 

Do Your Make-up Skills Resemble “Aunt Edna”?

In order stay fashion forward, current, with it, young and hip (YH), there are techniques regarding eye make-up that we need to acquire, digest and just plain remember. Ugh!  It can be a lot of work!   Is the look a thicker, liquid eyeliner, bright colored shadows for Spring and Summer and those fantastic false eyelashes?  In a word, NO!  There is an art for thick, Kim Kardashian-eyelined eyes, and most of us don’t have a “lady in waiting” type make-up artist on call. 

So, how does one draw the line when it comes to eyeliner?  Yesterday’s instructions were to simply draw a large line across the upper lid and rim the inside of the lower lid.  Today’s lessons are to line the top lid close to the lashes with a pencil (I’m not referring to a No. 2…), then be sure to smudge it so that it has softness and looks as natural as possible.  It’s recommended to apply a smudged, thin line under the lower lid as well.  The goal is to make it look like you have a thick lash line, not that you are wearing eyeliner (Now that makes sense). In order to make the line look natural and less obvious, pick neutral shades of brown, forest greens, or grays (depending upon your personal color palette) rather than the harsh look of black – and then smudge away. 

To shadow or not to shadow?  The instructions of yesterday were to select 3 compatible colors for the lid, with the last color being that of pearly white to the brow bone.  Well, that’s all changed!  Today one should choose only 2 colors and blend them so they have a natural look.  The bright bands of color in the beautiful jewel tones are the dreaded OL (old lady) – and are very dated and very ‘80’s.  So, what does a girl do?  Simply cover the lid in a neutral shade and sweep the darker shade so that it follows the crease from corner to corner.  Fashion editor, Charla Krupp instructed, “Don’t try matching your eye shadow to your eye color – ‘Tacky!’ is the general consensus” (Alrighty then…) 

Eyelashes – fake it till you make it?  Yesterday we were told to “apply a single strip of lashes across your eyelid.” Today we are told to avoid a full strip because they are too fake and too OL (old lady!).  Instead, the new look is clusters.  The idea is to apply groups of lashes across your entire lash line. Simply fill in the spaces with a few small hairs where you may be thin or missing lashes. Once all the little clusters are securely glued, apply mascara to all so that they all blend together.  You won’t need more than 5 little groups of the clusters.  These lashes can be found at most drug or beauty supply stores.

What eye make-up tips are your favorites?

Peggy 

Follow this link to see a sampling of the fabulous finds from the jewelry collection of First Impression.  Most pieces come in either silver or gold metals and all items are from $10 and $30.  Now that’s not only value, it makes being a Fashionista so much fun!

Silvertone, Pin Catch, Oval Filigree, Earring Set. 1.25″ long
Price:  $15 (plus tax and shipping) Email Peggy