Wednesday, 29 December 2010
How to choose the right swimwear for woman and men
Summer time, Beach time!! "Beachwear" can consist of a flowing cotton dress, a bikini, a cover-up over a swimsuit, jeans, shorts, halter tops and wrap-around skirts. As for style, there is never one right answer. The perfect style for you is what reflects your personality and what you're most comfortable in.
Swimwear For Your Body Shape
Regardless of current fashion trends, when you are planning to swim at the beach or do some sunbathing, it's important to choose a swimsuit that suits your body shape and type. Solid color swimsuits are best for pear shapes and suits with a solid color on the bottom of the suit will make larger hips looks smaller. Apple shapes fare best in suits with detail around the hips and bust areas because the eye will go there rather than to the middle. If you have a fuller figure with a large bust, you will need to choose a suit with good support for the proper fit. Swimsuits in darker colors will make you seem slimmer and won't draw as much attention as bright or multi-colored patterns or shiny fabrics. Vertical stripes slim and lengthen your entire body but avoid horizontal stripes on the bottom of your suit or you'll appear as if you're wider than you are. Choose vertical stripes over the entire suit to add length and narrow your appearance.
When you feel more comfortable less exposed, wear a long cotton dress, a kaftan, or sarong. When you you are attending a less casual event in a beach setting, accessorize to add instant glamour: earrings, bracelets, a necklace, and/or embellished sandals. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to shade you from the sun and to make the lower half of your body appear smaller.
Plus Size Swimwear
You may not be a size 6; perhaps you're a size 16 or a size 26. Whatever your body size, it's important that you feel comfortable and attractive at the beach. More clothing manufacturers than ever are designing trendy swimsuits for women who are of average or larger sizes.
A dark colored, one-piece swimsuit is a good choice and there are many modern styles of suits with an attached longer skirt for those ho may be self-conscious about thigh areas. Ensure that your swimsuit has built-in bust supports or an underwire bra support. Don't be afraid to show off your curves. You should be able to enjoy a day at the beach like anyone else.
Men's Swimwear Style Tips
While men can wear jeans, muscle shirts and other items of clothing, the most popular beachwear item for the men for the past several years has been "board" shorts, which are longer shorts that come down to the knees. They come in different colors and patterns for style and comfort and suit most body types - just avoid anything that's too baggy or oversized. Larger men are often most comfortable and attractive in darker colored board shorts with a taper to the leg that follows the body line or in monotone colors with just a splash of color.
Thin men who are narrow-legged should wear patterned and textured board shorts, which will appear to add more bulk as their cargo-style pockets will help add shape. Another ideal choice for the thinner man might be Topman's Blue Checked Swim Shorts, which sport the very popular "checks" trend.\
Shorter shorts for men, whether they're form-fitting or worn more loosely, are also popular and will make their legs appear longer. Speedos and boxer-style trunks dry quickly and offer versatility because they can be worn underneath other items although it's true that Speedos are most popular in Europe and South America. This type of swimwear leaves little to the imagination and the man wearing a Speedo needs to feel confident. Again, whatever your size or shape, try and choose beachwear that suits you in terms of comfort and your personal taste.
Friday, 17 December 2010
How to Dress Boho Chic
Learning how to dress boho chic can only come to your advantage as this fashion style is absolutely adorable. Not everyone matches with this stylish bohemian fashion style, as people have different preferences in style.
The bohemian fashion style or boho for short is characterized by a casual and relaxed wear with a certain hippie style touch that gives a certain allure of vintage. The bohemian style is easy to recognize and looks absolutely fabulous. The muses of this fashion style and the sources of inspiration when it comes to how to dress boho chic can be Sienna Miller, Nicole Richie, Mischa Barton as they seem to be the trendsetters for this style.
The bohemian fashion style can be considered a combination of folk, punk, hippie and modern chic fashion style, this is why it is so unconventional.
Shoes are very important for every outfit and every style so making the right choice is very important since there are a variety of shoe styles available. Comfortable styles shoes like flats, gladiator sandals, flip flops, leather cowboy style boots and platform shoes complete the bohemian style beautifully.
Accessories are equally important when it comes to boho chic outfits so don't neglect them. Hats, vests, bracelets and long necklaces with a vintage style work beautifully and complete the bohemian look. Try to be unique with your outfits and express your femininity and style through fashion.
Wednesday, 8 December 2010
Finding a Summer Dress: Tips for all body types
Women do not come in cookie cutter shapes and their beauty is in their uniqueness. When it comes to finding sundresses that enhances each body type, that uniqueness can sometimes be a hindrance. On average there are five main body shapes. Each silhouette requires a different style of summer dress to accentuate their assets and hide their flaws. Women of all shapes can find flattering summer dresses by following a few simple rules and accessorizing well.
Women with a slim silhouette should focus on femininity and the illusion of curves when shopping for summer dresses. Adding volume mixed with feminine accessories will highlight the female form of a woman with a boyish body shape. Pleats, ruffles, and flowing fabric are simple ways to add volume to sundresses. Add a belt to make the impression of a curvy waist and some beautiful feminine accessories like high heels and jewelry. Summer dresses with interesting necklines, such as a trapezoid or a V shape can add curve and shape to a smaller bust. Avoid rounded collars and tight fitting dresses that emphasize the small size of the bust.
Curvaceous Body Type Women with generous curve need to avoid bringing attention to problem areas and accentuate their curves. Fluid fabrics and long silhouettes work best with this body type. Summer dresses that are too form fitting or stretchy will emphasize problem areas without showing off assets. Accessories are essential to any look and curvaceous girls cannot afford to be without a great pair of heels. Small prints add flair without being over the top and interesting neck lines show off curves in the right way. Leggings can add interest and length to a woman with a large bottom and bust. Leggings work well with flowing blouses or sundresses.
Petite Body Type
Looking long and lean is something to strive for as a petite female. Short, structured summer dresses with high heels are the perfect option to add that illusion of length. Avoid sundresses with ample cuts or too much fabric. A petite woman will get lost in a flowing maxi dress but will stand tall in an asymmetrical cut dress. Accessories that are too big will over power a petite woman. Long scarves and necklaces can add length to petite women when paired with short summer dresses.
Top Heavy Body Type
The top heavy woman has a generous chest and slim hips and legs. This type of woman should draw attention to her assets with short sundresses. V-shaped necklines slim a large bust and hemlines above the knee show off legs. Simple lines and simple accessories are essential to a top heavy woman’s closet. Busy prints, boat necks, square necks and belts worn to high should be avoided by the top heavy woman as they only accentuate the width of the bust. Pear Shape Body Type
Pear shape women should look for sundresses that emphasize the bust and are slim through the hips. Women who are slim on top and have large hips are considered pear-shape and should avoid summer dresses that are straight cut or tight fitting. Interesting necklines accentuate the bust while a flared skirt with make the hips look narrower.
Perfect for sundresses, summer is a season of fun fabrics and bright colors. Accessories are abundant and high heels are a woman’s best friend. Whether the silhouette is curvy or androgynous, there are sundresses for all body types. Women of all shapes can find flattering summer dresses by following a few simple rules.
HAVE FUN!!!
Monday, 22 November 2010
How to wear MAXI dresses and skirts
I have been asked many times... "How do I wear a maxi dress and skirt?" ... Well I found this article and I like it....have a read
Maxi skirts are the best romantic casual wear for women, and the best scene for a woman appearance as they are so close to her nature and ensure a very elegant look.
Maxi skirts come usually in wide variety of colors, designs, and fabrics. There is the plain, the printed, the scalar, the drapey, and the shrunken style. They can be wide flowing, or tight fitted skirts coming in many different colors on the waist region or from down.
This kind of skirts can be used for all purposes, they can be used as casual day wear while hanging out with friends, shopping, trips, and for night but not as classic or evening wear as they are just casual style.
Many kinds of accessories are suitable with maxi skirts, necklaces will be great looking, especially the long kind. Also they can be used for resorts, beaches, and travels, they suit all ages and can be used with any type of blouses, vests, tops, shirts, or even long coats in winter.
Any kind of leather shoes or sandals can be used, leather bags, brief cases, casual bags, and casual slippers too.
Wednesday, 17 November 2010
SPRING/SUMMER 2010-2011 COLLECTION
This is my style......
Helen Cherry welcomes summer with a light, fresh and feminine collection. She mixes luxurious fabrics with casual styling to create a cool, relaxed elegance. Soft, powdery tones are punctuated by a sweep of flamingo pink and vibrant prints. Silhouettes are lean and relaxed with an emphasis on strong shoulder details, often softened by a waterfall ruffle, or fluted sleeve. Effortless but super cool, a Helen Cherry look will take you through all the moments in your day.
“Every collection I aspire to create the perfect wardrobe to make a woman look and feel beautiful” says Helen Cherry.
Saturday, 13 November 2010
tips how to dress your age!!
If you are over the age of 25 - there are a few style rules that she should follow, to ensure you look great.
1. Stay away from the skinny jeans!
2. Knee High Socks - the schoolgirl look is for schoolgirls, unless you're going to a fancy dress party:)
3. Dressing Old - no need to get into old lady clothes before your time. Keep current with the trends without going overboard with the fads. Don't keep hanging onto items you wore 10 or 20 years ago, let them go.
4. Dressing for Your Body Shape - you need to know what fits and flatters your shape so you can best adapt current trends to suit you.
5. Update your accessories yearly - an easy way to keep up with fashion and look current, without breaking the bank. Glasses, shoes, jewellery and handbags can really add some pizazz to your outfit, so make them work for you.
6. Update in Small Doses - don't wear fashion trends such as boho or military head to toe, take an element, one piece and work it back with your basics to look up to date but not fashion victim.
7. Wear What Suits You - be aware of your personality and how it affects the clothes you wear - your clothes should say something about you, not anyone else.
8. Get a New Hairstyle - when was the last time you changed your style? Update and look younger with a current cut and style.
9. Want to look classy? Your best neutral colours will do it for you. Bright or fashion colours come and go, but neutrals will keep you looking good.
10. Get Your Clothes Altered so they Fit - if your clothes fit you well, they'll look more expensive and you'll look great
Sunday, 31 October 2010
Cost per Wear - The REAL Cost of Clothing
I spend a lot of time talking to people about clothes, and explaining that your clothes are an investment in yourself and your image. Why should you invest in your image? According to a landmark study by Albert Mehrabian, 93% of our communication is non-verbal – and 55% of that is based on what we look like – so before we’ve even opened our mouths, we’re being judged.
Think about what three main things you’d like your image to tell people about yourself. Responsible? Creative? Dynamic? Knowledgeable? Current? Motivated? Reliable? Efficient? Professional? I could go on, but if you’re trying to look any of these things, cheap clothes, ill-fitting clothes, worn-out clothes, dated fashions, and poor personal grooming really affect how you are perceived. People make assumptions on how able you are to do a job, how successful (and rich) you are, your level of education, your political views, even the newspaper you read and the car you drive as well as a myriad of other judgments based entirely on your look and demeanor. Your image speaks volumes, without you saying a word.
Companies spend vast sums of money on their own image in their advertising. The people they employ need to be the human face of the company, but your image must be congruent with that of the companies. So, logically, you’d want to make a great impression and look like the kind of person any company would feel happy to pay top-dollar for. You need to be your own marketing manager, and a marketing manager understands about correctly packaging the product for its target audience.
Why do people spend hundreds of dollars on an outfit they’re going to wear once or twice (eg for a wedding or special occasion), yet can’t bring themselves to spend the same money on a great pair of well-fitting, good quality trousers that they’ll probably wear 2-3 times per week for a couple of years to work? Does this make financial sense? Instead, they buy cheap clothing that wears badly, sags, gets shiny patches, pills and doesn’t fit properly – what does this say about themselves? I wear cheap clothing so you can pay me badly, not promote me or give me pay rises (above and beyond CPI increases)? You spend more time at work than anywhere else, then the majority of your clothing budget should be invested in work clothes (not party outfits I’m sorry to say).
We often hear about cost-per-wear and to see if an item will be a good investment (it needs to match other items in your wardrobe so you can wear it with a variety of other pieces you already own), there is a simple equation:
Let's use a $240 pair of dark (navy or black - depending on your best colours) trousers in our example:
•First, divide the cost of the trousers by the number of garments in your wardrobe that can be worn with it. Let's say that I have 6 shirts, and 2 jackets that go with the trousers. (ie: $240/8 = $30)
•The $240 trousers have now been reduced to a cost of $30
•Next, divide the new cost of $30 by the number of times the trousers will be worn per year (say 2 times per week for 40 weeks) (ie: $30/80 = 37 cents)
•The $240 trousers have now been further reduced to a cost 37 cents
The last step is to divide the new cost of 37 cents by the number of years the trousers will be worn (ie: $0.37/2 = 18 cents)
Final Result: A $240 pair of trousers has been reduced to a cost of 18 cents per wear over a 2 year period. (By the way, a cheap pair of trousers would probably have had to have been replaced at least once or twice in the same time, and you wouldn’t have felt as good wearing them as you would your investment trousers).
You are treated in the manner that you are perceived, so if you invest in yourself, maintain good grooming and choose your clothing wisely so that it reflects those traits that you want other to believe about you, your chances of success in both business and pleasure will be greatly enhanced. When you feel great in your clothes, and the clothes you wear every-day, not just on special occasions, your confidence will improve and others will be more appreciative of your worth.
Tuesday, 26 October 2010
Wear Turquoise!!!
There has never been a better time to wear this stunning hue: turquoise is set to be THE hottest color for spring. Reminiscent of tropical islands and bright ocean water, turquoise is one of those rare colors that, although intense, is universally flattering and extremely versatile. If you’re feeling adventurous, turquoise is a great color for dressy pieces, and can look downright elegant in silk or sheer chiffon. Turquoise accessories are also great for adding a pop of color to an otherwise monochromatic outfit.
Our deepest fear
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that frightens us most. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and famous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that people won't feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in all of us. And when we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
Used by Nelson Mandela in his 1994 inaugural speech
Wednesday, 20 October 2010
Wear CORAL!! Styles to suit you
Why you need it now
With brights being such a big thing on catwalks during this -summer season, coral has found a happy niche. In its brightest incarnation, it is almost crimson in intensity but subdued with a dash of pink. However, coral, like the feminine lingerie style popular since last spring-summer, also comes in paler versions. The catwalks of the international shows that have just wrapped up had more coral delights from Antonio Berardi, Jil Sander, Bally and Diane von Furstenberg.
What to look for
The great thing about coral is that it's equally fabulous in clothing or accessories. A bright dash of coral will play nicely with other brights (look to Jil Sander's latest show for inspiration), or will lift up neutrals such as beige and white. Also, those slightly softer corals will work perfectly with nude tones. A great leather tote can be your go-to nod to brights for the season and will make a quick and easy wardrobe update. Or, if you're comfortable with a lot of colour, a block-colour dress will make a great statement. If you just want to dip a toe in the water when it comes to this trend, why not find a sexy coral wedge? And don't forget the lipstick.
Style to suit you
Athletic shapes A gorgeous draped dress in a bold tone will be perfect for summer cocktails, worn either with a jewelled sandal (avoid doubling up on the colour) or a sexy, strappy heel.
Petite shapes Coral shorts are playful, worn either with tanks and tees for casual wear or with a contrasting cropped jacket and heels for a smart, chic look.
Busty shapes A wrap dress in a coral print is a great option for summer, or look for a deep-coral V-neck jacket.
Pear shapes If you can find a ruffled coral top, you'll be ticking off two top trends for spring. Wear with jeans during the day or a slimline skirt in the evening.
Tuesday, 12 October 2010
Add Color to your SPRING Wardrobe
To find the colors that suit your complexion, stand in front of the mirror with color swatches and place them against your face to find out what suits you best. Choose colors that accentuate your skin tone, eyes and hair as well as your other features.
Purchase accessories that spice your dark colored work outfits. Choose to accessorize with shoes, scarves, hats, rings, earings or neck pieces. Always choose a focal point, not too much at the same time.
Your makeup needs to reflect the moods of the season. Choose peaches and pinks as they make your skin glow without adding glitter. These are perfect looks for the day.
Spring time calls for skirts that are light and sashay as you walk creating an element of curiosity. Shoes can add a lot of style to your outfit. Choose shoes that have buckles and are open toe for this season. Keep them in lighter tones as well. You can choose pastel colors or prints for your shoes as they will add the extra zing to your outfit.
Color that are predominant during springtime are pastels shades of pink, peach, yellow and blue. Stay clear of red as the basic garment as it is too deep for the season. If you must wear dark browns, navy blue and black then accessorize with lighter colors and jewelery.
HAVE FUN!!!
http://www.wardrobe911.com/what-to-wear-spring-luncheon/
Tuesday, 5 October 2010
Fashion 14+ "Celebrate your Curves"!
Check out the link for more inspiration. http://www.ts14plus.com.au/Shop_Catalogues.ht
Friday, 1 October 2010
Tea Party
There is a childlike innocence about this summer's delicate pastels. The look brings to mind nostalgic memories of dressing up and playing tea parties - and not just because of the cupcake pinks and creamy colours. It's highly polished and classic. Ever the lady, co-ordinate your look from head-to-toe; cinch in your waist with a slim belt, wear heels with everything, match your bag to your shoes and add a long string of pearls. Your mother would be so proud
Thursday, 30 September 2010
The perfect fit for all body shapes!!
No matter how fab a skirt is, if you're uncomfortable in it you won’t look or feel good. If your clothes are too tight, it can also highlight areas you don't like. The same thing applies if they're too loose.
So what is classified as "good fit"?
It skims the contours of your shape. Nothing clings or pulls. It won't make you look like your hiding shape or trying to look sexy.
So if clothing looks visibly tight, loose with obvious creasing or gaping on you, then you know that the fit isn't good
- If a garment is a bit loose then you'll notice that it makes you look a little bigger.
Monday, 27 September 2010
create a new wardrobe
"The secret to a good wardrobe is knowing what to do with clothes you have, how to make them work for you and what to add to keep it current."
Think about this quote when looking through your wardrobe, how many items are still in there years after the fashion has passed?
We all have clothing we wear often, some things we have bought on impulse and other items that can be up to 3 sizes too small. If you are waiting to fit back into some of your old favorites or you feel that your look is a little out of date, or do you wear 20% of your wardrobe most of the time? Then the Wardrobe Audit is for you.
Your wardrobe should be a collection of styles and colors that make you look and feel fabulous. Learn how to revamp and revive your wardrobe to reflect your career, lifestyle, personality and budget
During your consultation you will:
* Learn what your best clothes, shoes and accessories are to keep
* Learn what clothes, shoes and accessories to add
* Learn to create many outfits from few clothes
* Learn to reflect your personality
Save money by creating a wardrobe - and make sure there is a fantastic fashionable outfit for every occasion.
Wednesday, 11 August 2010
The Spring/Summer 2010 is around the corner!!
Wednesday, 4 August 2010
Vintage Fashion Shopping
I came across this great article about Vintage Fashion Shopping. Its worth reading it, FASHION is about how you wear it not where did you buy it and how much it cost!
Protect the environment without sacrificing comfort, style or sophistication. Thanks to vintage and thrift stores, eco-shopping is environmentally and fashion friendly.
Like spring, being environmentally savvy or "green" involves renewal, regeneration and giving back. You can start by recycling those water bottles piling up under the sink, or by donating your gently-used clothes as opposed to throwing them out. Or you can splurge on some fashions that are as good for the planet as they are for your wardrobe.
Here's how you can support recycling and reusing in fashion, two shopping practices that are eco-chic and high on style:
Reused Clothing
All reused clothing is green, since – by being salvaged – it doesn't find itself piling up in a landfill for all of eternity. It may take a little time and patience to hunt for individual items, but when you uncover those truly one-of-a-kind pieces that rival many of today's most popular designers, second-hand shopping is totally worth all the work. So go ahead and shop with wild abandon in your local thrift or vintage clothing store.
Every fashionista knows that clothing constructed and sold off the rack before the mid-1960s was top quality, which is why much of it is still in excellent condition in your mother's or grandmother's closet, or around the corner in the local thrift or vintage shop. Even if your salvaged garment is from the mid-'80s (instead of the mid-'50), your sense of style, the influence of current trends, and a fresh interpretation of an old look can bring new life to even very inexpensive thrift-shop buys.
Thrift Stores versus Consignment Shops versus Vintage Boutiques
Consignment stores – those where the original owner retains some of the revenue from the sale, as opposed to making a straight donation to the shop – will often have equal quality to vintage boutiques, however thrift stores – with their hodgepodge collection and crammed racks of donated clothes – are where you must truly become a fashion sleuth.
Vintage shops will more consistently yield the best selection and the highest quality, but prices will be higher than consignment shops or thrift stores. You are paying for a knowledgeable staff and a selection that is usually grouped by decade, which makes for an easier shopping experience.
Read on
* Banana Republic's Organic Fashion
* Find Eco-Friendly Fashion Online
* Ethical Fashion - Eco-Underwear
Final Sale for Secondhand Items
Whichever store you frequent, you must check each item carefully, since very few secondhand clothing stores accept returns. Sometimes it's worth purchasing a used garment with an obvious defect if it will be relatively easy or inexpensive to mend, especially if the purchase price is right.
Vintage Shopping: Quality is in the Details
Until the 1960s, most clothing was made to measure by major fashion houses, local seamstresses and even department stores, so definitely do not overlook unfamiliar labels. With garments made prior to the 1960s, higher quality is a given, especially if the label is woven and has been completely sewn down.
Another indicator of a high quality garment is the buttons: jet, brass, bone, pearl and the buttonholes themselves are hallmarks of superior craftsmanship. Other details such as quality lining, well-sewn seams and even dress weights (tiny metal bits sewn into the hems for better drape) will set excellent garments apart from the rest of the rack.
womensfashion.suite101.com/article.cfm/vintage_thrift_fashion_shopping#ixzz0vdJinUrO
Thursday, 29 July 2010
It's not about size. It's about shape!
“It’s not about size. It’s about Shape”. When I am choosing clothing for someone, the most important thing to take into consideration is that it’s not actually about the size of the person, it’s about their body-shape. That is far more important when dressing to look your best.
I think so many women & men here and around the western world have become so pre-occupied with size. For some, being a size 14, instead of a 12 is the end of the world. Whereas, for others, the frustration of being a size 24, can lead them to hide behind shapeless clothing, and be ashamed of how they look. We’ve seen this in the media, with the debate over too-skinny models, and magazines splashed with photographs of a celebrity that has cellulite… gasp!
Many women that I work with won’t even try on a garment in a bigger size than their normal, even if it will fit and flatter them better, because of this mental block about clothing size.
It’s not about size. It’s about shape!!
Once you know what your body shape is, it means you can truly dress to make the most of the body that God has given you. You will know how to shift attention away from your figure challenges, and how to draw attention to your best features. It’s all about looking good and feeling great. It’s about feeling confident again, and not letting low self-esteem and body image stop you from living your life.
Stand back and take a look at yourself in the mirror. Don’t just stare at your big bottom, or wobbly thighs, or flabby tummy. Look at your entire shape. What do you like about yourself? Make a list of your positive features. You just need to learn how to dress yourself to look more balanced, top & bottom. It’s worth making the effort. Who wouldn’t want to feel more confident and comfortable with how they look?
We would love to help you out with making the most of yourself. Check out our services to find out how to dress your body shape with our Body-shape Analysis.
Thursday, 25 March 2010
Style Personality
Knowing your Style Personality is as important as being able to choose the best colours and shapes for you. When you understand this concept, you not only look fantastic in what you wear, you feel authentic and truly YOU in it.
Your Style Personality is influenced by your colouring and bone structure, your environment and the kind of life you live, underpinned by the essence of you. We look at styles you are naturally attracted to, fabrics and cut, as well as the overall image you project and want to project.
Discover your Style Personality and you’ll find an amazing new focus in your life that will help achieve all your goals.
Gift Vouchers are available.
Talk to us about a great price deal on the whole package.
www.confidencestyle.co.nz