Beautiful inside and out

How to wear a summer hat

2012-01-20T01:01:00.000-08:00

It's not quite as simple as you may think

From Frank Sinatra's Fedora to Charlie Chaplin's bowler, the hat has been a strong sartorial choice by many great men. But a misjudged hat can leave you looking more than a little foolish (think Simon in the Inbetweeners). With this in mind we've got a couple of tips from Julia Rebaudo, resident blogger for StyleCompare.co.uk, on how to wear one with style.

"The key to wearing a hat well is knowing what suits your face shape and picking the right style accordingly. The aim is to remove as much asymmetry as possible and give the appearance of balanced facial proportions – the thinking here is that the eye finds symmetry attractive."

Homburg hat

Face shape: Square. If you have a square face you need a hat that will make you appear less boxy. Avoid a tapered or square crown. Choose a hat with a full, round medium height crown with almost no taper. The brim should be wide, not narrow. Tip: Wear tilted to the side to break up square lines. Style: Homburg, Bowler

Face shape: Round. A round full face needs a hat that’s going to give you a little height to avoid looking short. Make sure the crown is of medium height and size and that there is a slight taper. A narrow band helps lengthen the face. Tip: Don’t tilt your hat forwards as it shortens the face. Styles: Fedora, Gambler, Panama

Face shape: Long. A long, thin face needs to be shortened to balance it out. So avoid hats that have a high or full crown. Choose a style that has a shorter height and a moderate taper. A moderate brim and a wide hatband is ideal. Tip: Hatbands in contrasting colours help break up vertical lines. Style: Porkpie, Fedora, Trilby

Face shape: Big Jaw – If you have a prominent jaw then you need to avoid crowns and brims that are both too big and small. You need to go for a medium sized brim and crown with a slight taper. Tip: Don’t tilt your hat too far back. Style: Fedora, Trilby, Porkpie

How to wear them: http://www.refinery29.com/shopping-roundup-sizzlin-summer-hats/slideshow#slide-9

Feeling relaxed.....

2012-01-17T18:21:00.000-08:00

Today the boys wanted to go to the pools.... the cool breeze was not inviting to go into the water, so I decided to sit and watch them doing their flips and jumps...... lots of fun!
To my outfit: I am wearing a very "relaxed" outfit. its very comfortable and nice fabric. the pants are linen and I love that I can pull them up (to create slimmer legs) I added the orange wool belt to add color and style. An orange singlet to add color and the off white V-neck top (lights colors are great for summer, white, ivory, coca, cream - stay away from black!! ).
These sandals I have had for years, bought them in Israel.... but as we say trends are always back.. so these type of sandals are never out of style.... it is only a matter of wearing the same style of clothes matching the look (boho, creative) long earnings are ideal for this look...

Linen pants -got mine in Switzerland - similar style and material can be found in Witchery
woollen belt - hand made - easy to get in any markets or do it your self
singlet - from Glassons
V-neck top - http://www.worldwear.co.nz/
Sandals - http://www.shoebuy.co.nz and Hannahs
Earrings -Lovisa

Summer day... cricket!!

2012-01-11T20:39:00.000-08:00

after weeks or rain, finally the sun is coming out!! i love summer! love the warm weather and spending time with my kids... having two boys means sport is a lot more exciting then shopping... so here we are playing cricket in high heels. I don't recommend it- but it was fun.

Now for my outfit.... I love these patterned flower pink pants, which I gather at the bottom (with a safety pin) adding a bit of interest and matching the style of the wedges.(to make my legs look slimmer)
The top is a simple off white color, with big details at the front to complete the creative look. Don't forget the accessories, sunglasses, earnings and a big ring.

If you are creating a "look" match the style not only the color! Patterns, fabrics and shapes creates different styles! Stripes, dots and block colors is a dramatic style. Flowers, soft fabrics, ruffles, bows are part of the romantic style. the creative/boho style is a mix of romantic and everything else :)

Today's tip is: to create a look think about the whole of you! head to toe (glasses, hat, head band, earnings, belts, rings, necklace, shoes). create a theme...like painting a canvas!!
And Have FUN!!

ring (diva)
earnings (lovisa)
sunglasses (prescription glasses from speck savers)
pants (DNA, nz label)(gift from a friend)
top (bought it few years ago in Europe)
shoes ( from switzerland but similar style are in Hannahs, number1 shoes and wild pair)

introducing our new teen blogger! Julia Rose!!

2012-01-11T02:26:00.000-08:00

my dress on the 1st January!

2012-01-03T19:12:00.000-08:00

This is what I wore on the 1st of January. I love this marine blue dress, simple and elegant with a feminine touch. These shoes are one of my favorites, they lift any outfit adding color and style. The color in the earnings matching the bling in the shoes and the ring to create the balance. Marine blue is a great alternative to black, can be worn with many different colors (beige, white, red, green, grey). If you are looking for a timeless dress marine blue is the color!!

How To Choose the Best Swimsuit For Your Body Shape

2012-01-02T01:48:00.000-08:00

If you're athletic :

Better: suits with bust-enhancing details. You can go wild with the embellishments at the hips and bust line. Rings, jewels, ties and bows are all good things for you.

If you're athletic, a ring-top bandeau flatters and a wild print is va-va-voom!

If you have a short torso...

For a longer, more elegant look on top, toss the boring tank and try chic details.

Avoid boy shorts and skirted bikinis as they draw the eye downward and can make you look shorter.

A solid, one-piece suit with a plunging neckline creates a continual, long appearance and is absolutely

If you have a short torso,punchy hues draw your eyes up to your collarbone.

If you're lanky...

in a swim-team-esque one-piece for a hot little ruffled number that gave her sizzling curves.

You are very lucky that you have the body to wear those cute, ruffled tops that are so hot right now, so go for it. And as for bandeau tops, only you can wear those well. You can also show off in those tiny, tri-tops that the big busted girls only dream about.

Boy shorts are just the thing for your slim hips. Oh, and those cute, ruffled skirts and cover-ups? They’re made just for you!

If you're lanky, a front tie top makes you curvier.

If you're apple-shaped...

Never settle!Fab legs, fab smile, fab makeover! An obvious one is if your tummy area isn't the greatest, then don't wear a bikini, go for a tankini, which is a swimsuit that is in two parts, or a one piece swimsuit. Kaftans, sarongs and cover ups are all fantastic options to team up with your swimsuit and can pull the whole thing together

If you have a little pooch...

Hey, we?ve all got one! But a sleek red suit smooths out the belly and flatters everywhere.

You’ve probably already heard that vertical stripes can visually lengthen the body. Well, here’s another trick. Wear a solid bottom bikini with a printed top. This will draw the eye upward and give you a longer look.

If you have a little pooch, chevron stripes slim you.

If you have a long torso...

When you have an extra-tall upper body, prints and cutouts are your friends. Try horizontal stripes and nappy fabrics, such as stretch terry and velvet.

Play up your figure by finding a suit that is cut high on the thigh

If you have a long torso, side-tie details help curv-ify

If you're pear-shaped...

Color blocking is an easy slim-down trick. By putting the slightly lighter color on top

Another thing to consider that may seem counter intuitive is to wear a high cut leg. This is because if you choose a low cut leg it may be drawing a line across your widest part, thereby creating a center of focus, so go for a higher cut and draw the eye upwards.

If you're pear-shaped, an asymmetrical cut flatters.

If you're curvy... A boy-short suit is a no-no. Opt for feminine styles, they flatter while still offering support and coverage?nice!

Play up your figure by finding a suit that is cut high on the thigh. This will make your leg look much longer. If you have curvy hips, then all the better. This cut will accentuate your smaller waist and give you a flirty look.

If you're curvy, ruffles on top showcase curves.

If you're busty...

You need supportive cups. Halter-top bikinis can be a good choice by offering support, while providing some sexy cleavage too. Look for styles that are banded around the midriff and can be tied in back and around the neck. This style will give you some lift and will allow you to make adjustments for a personal fit.

Avoid anything with unnecessary details such as stripes.

If you're an hourglass...

No bathing suit should give you muffin top! The solution? Avoid anything that cuts you off mid-hip.

Always remember that you are aiming for a balanced silhouette.

Two Piece Swimsuits

Many swimsuits come in two pieces so you can choose which top and bottom go together, this is particularly helpful if you are a pear shape as you can then purchase a darker coloured bottom and pair it with a top that is a complimentary brighter color and or pattern. Being able to purchase separates also means that you can even purchase different sizes ie. a ten top and a twelve bottom.

Swimsuit for Swimming

If you're into swimming, definitely get a one-piece. Find one that doesn't cut into the shoulders, has comfortable, stretchy fabric and doesn't creep up the backside. Forget bikini strings. You just don't want anything to come undone while you're doing laps or snorkeling off a crowded beach.

let this coming year...

2011-12-30T17:49:00.000-08:00

Let this coming year be better than all the others. Vow to do some of the things you've always wanted to do but couldn't find the time. Call up a forgotten friend. Drop an old grudge, and replace it with some pleasant memories. Vow not to make a promise you don't think you can keep. Walk tall, and smile more. You'll look ten years younger. Don't be afraid to say, 'I love you'. Say it again. They are the sweetest words in the world.

summer/spring shoes, color blocking, wedges and heels

2011-12-30T01:41:00.000-08:00

Add Style with your shoes! options on shoes color, style, shape and heels to dress up any outfit and to create style!

Dressing for work as a +size

2011-12-29T17:25:00.002-08:00

There are some fashion faux-pas that all women need to avoid in dressing--looking bigger than we are or choosing colors that don't match our skin tones are some basics. Dressing for a size 16+ is no different, but in case you want a few tips on how to shop for your size 16 body, learning the most flattering styles and clothes is a great start to transforming your look and your wardrobe.

Learn how to dress a + size

Choose fabrics that compliment your body. Light flowing fabrics like silk, and non-clinging fabrics like basic wool and lightweight knit fabrics are a great choice, while bulky stiff fabrics or stretch Lycra fabrics tend to be unflattering. Most natural fabrics are also a great choice.

Buy the right size and fit. While it is often tempting to shop down a size to encourage ourselves to diet or exercise, buying the proper size for your current self can make the difference between a stunning outfit and a fashion blunder. Always try on your clothes and if you feel you will get the best fit for your body by going up or down a size, do so. You can always tailor down from a larger size to fit your body perfectly.

Wear the right undergarments. Wearing a great bra or panty can make all the difference in the fit of your clothes. This means that great dressing starts from the basics up; your bras should fit you well and the proper fitting panty will keep you from getting those lines that all women dread showing through their clothing from their undergarments. Having a good slip in your wardrobe is also a great idea.

Highlight your assets. With all fashion, the goal should be to draw the eye to the areas we choose to highlight. If you love your waist or your legs, choose fabrics and clothing that will attract attention there. That means adding a belt, to show your curves, or wearing a nice calf length skirt to show off your legs. Patterns can be a great way to do this as well. Vertical lines are always slimming, but diagonal patterns and designs will do the trick just as well

Make a clean line by wearing one color. Though monochrome style isn't always the most fun, remember that black isn't the only way to go. However bright or light you want to wear your outfit, a simple long dress or pantsuit is a great way to give a clean silhouette and compliments every figure

Men's Fashion

2011-12-29T17:25:00.001-08:00

Tips how to look taller and thinner

man image

MEN: To Look Taller and Thinner

Wear clothes that fit well (too tight or too loose clothes add pounds).
Wear solid colors, preferably in the same color range, from head to toe.
Avoid stiff fabrics and nubby textures.
Wear darker tones in smooth fabrics with flat finishes.
Limit stripes to very fine, subdued, and close-together versions.
Wear two-button jackets with natural shoulders.
Wear trousers with vertical pockets, which are more slenderizing than slanted pockets.
Wear trousers at the natural waist (never below)
Wear hemmed, not cuffed, trousers.
Wear classic-length jackets, preferably without vests.
Avoid too many accessories.
Be sure your tie touches the waistband and that it is medium in width.
Avoid busy patterns.

Fashion Tips for Men

I’ve come up with a list of quick fashion checklist. use it to determine just how much you know about how to dress. Chances are there are at least a few of them you don’t know.

#1 Do NOT wear socks with sandals
I can’t tell you how many time I’ve seen this happen. Socks with sandals is a BIG no-no. Sandals are to be worn in the summer, when the temperatures are high. You won’t need socks at all.

#2 Try before you buy
Never Buy clothes or accessories before you see how they look on you. While it’s hard to find something that fits you perfectly, do try on as many clothes as possible before you find what you want.

#3 Invest in a good suit
Even if you’re not the formal type of guy, you should have your own suit for special occasions. You can’t go in jeans at a wedding or at a formal dinner. make sure you get a good wool or cotton suit that will last you for years. Choose a good color, take it to the tailors for adjustment and get a shirt or two to match it.

#4 Wear color
Regardless of your age, do spice up your outfits with a little color. It’s a great way to stand out from the crowd and show everyone your fashion sense.

#5 Don’t be a fashion victim
When you buy something new, make sure it’s something you really need. Don’t fall victim to those commercials that dictate to you what you should get. Instead, think of the image you want to project and buy clothes that show your personality.

#6 Don’t ignore your skin
While most of us take facial care for granted, you might be surprised to notice a real difference in your skin if you only took care of it. Exfoliate, shave, tone and moisturize; you’ll increase your attractiveness with a cleaner, better looking face.

#7 Don’t be cheap when it comes to shoes
A good pair of shoes can last you a long time as long as you know how to take good care of them. A cheap pair of shoes will quickly fall apart. Only buy quality shoes and think of them as an investment. Wear them by rotation each day and clean them regularly to have them last you for years.

#8 Work on your fashion sense
No matter how old we are, we will never know everything. Your fashion sense is like a muscle. it needs to be constantly be worked out.

#9 Don’t be afraid to wear accessories
If you’re going for a more mature look, go for scarves,pocket squares and watches.

#10 Try new things
As you grow older, your fashion sense changes. This is actually a great opportunity for you to do some variations in your style. A new accessory or a new color are always great places to start. Get out of your comfort zone and do it.

#11 Don’t unbutton your shirt too much
I’ve seen plenty of guys showing their chest hair in public places. Unless you happen to be an experienced bodybuilder, this will never look good…. unless you’re on the beach. There’s a fine line between sexy and obnoxious so make sure you don’t cross it.

#12 Always iron your clothes
This is one of those things only other people notice. We never notice our own wrinkled clothes. Make it a habit to always take one last look in the mirror before you leave the house. Look for wrinkles, stains or anything that looks suspicious.

#13 Do mix formal with casual
I do this all the time and I love it. I wear a sports jacket with jeans and a pocket square, a tie with a polo shirt and so on. Intriguing clothes combinations make you an intriguing person.

#14 Get a good haircut
Go to a hair stylist and figure out what would look good on you. Then give it a try and don’t forget to change your haircut very so often.

Dress for corporate Sucess

2011-12-29T17:25:00.000-08:00

Do's and Don'ts when followingTrends

Today’s women want to look good and trendy at any age. With greater job opportunities, higher disposable income and constant exposure to the latest fashion and beauty trends, women today are certainly wanting to be more savvy in their overall visual presentation. However, the desire to be “IN” may actually become your worst nightmare when you cannot keep up with fashion’s notorious fickleness and end up looking so “last year”! Fashion comes and goes in hyper speed; sometimes a hot fad may fizzle out in a matter of months. To avoid looking like a fashion victim, here are some general guidelines:

Do invest in timeless items such as tank tops, jeans, well-cut blazers and little black dresses. You cannot go wrong with these classic pieces. Buy them in neutral solid colours for easy coordination with other trendier pieces.

Do opt for a natural sheer look be it your make-up, nail polish or hairdo. If you are in the creative field, you can be more adventurous with your style, otherwise a sun-kissed matte look always project a sharper and polished image. If you want to experiment with bold colour make-up, go for a matte instead of glossy finishing for work.

Do update your wardrobe in small doses. For example, trendy accessories such as a bright colour handbag, patterned tights in neutral colours or laced-up booties will add instant wow into your core wardrobe without having to spend too much.

Do wear your hair in a neat and light style. Frizzy or flyaway hair can be kept in control with the use of hair products or accessories. Long hair should be sleek and tidy; wear it in a chignon style or low ponytail for an elegant day-to-day look.

Do wear trendy fashion because you really like them and not for insecurity reasons. You do not have to be togged in trends from top to toe to look good and feel belonged. Inner beauty triumphs over fashion at the end of the day. Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, think positively and cultivate friendships. As designer Kenneth Cole says "To be aware is more important than what you wear."

Don’t bet on exaggerated styles, cuts and colours to stay for long e.g. acid wash jeans, big shoulder pads, micro minis, neon colours and military jackets. These styles are not only difficult to pull off but they will fade away by this time next year.

Don’t wear flip-flops in and out of the office. It does not matter if they are branded, fashionable or ultra comfortable. A slipper is a slipper and it has no place in the corporate world. It instantly diminishes your credibility at work.

Don’t wear bright make-up to work. Blue eyelids were hot in the 1980’s and are making a comeback but unless you work in a beauty industry, I would recommend that you choose a softer blue palette for the board room.

Don’t overdo in the accessories department. Big bold accessories may be the trend now, but wearing oversize necklaces or rings will be distracting for the office. You will want your boss, co-workers and clients to focus on your sales pitch or presentation rather than your fashion statement.

Don’t wear leggings to work no matter how casual your office is. Leggings will continue to be a strong trend but that doesn’t mean it should become your office wardrobe staple. Remember you will want to stand out in the crowd and not be one of the crowd to get that promotion.

Make up for all Skin Types

2011-12-29T16:45:00.000-08:00

Depending on your skin tone, the make-up you choose will need to flatter your face and hair. If you apply the wrong colors, you're not doing yourself a favor -- and you can look all washed out, or overdone. Play up your features with the best make-up colors, tints and hues for your skin tone.

Make-up for Fair Skin

If you're fair-skinned, sheer colors look best on you. Apply light earth tones and soft pastels, such as blue and lavender to accent your eyes.
Various shades of pink will look good on your eyes, cheeks and lips. Keep your mascara to brown or brown/black. Light, sheer lipstick adds a finishing touch. Peach is always a good choice for our fair-skinned friends, it looks natural and compliments blonde hair.

Medium Toned Skin

Your warmer completion gives you many options for a fabulous makeover. Being "in-between" does have it's benefits. Deep matte earth tones and jewel colors such as hunter green, dark grey, beige and brown will accent your eyes. Coral and plumb colors work good to accentuate your cheekbones.
Experiment with your lip color. Your skin tone is very versatile and if you're brunette, anything from pink to red will look great on you. Top it off with lip gloss for extra staying power. Bronzing powder dusted over your forehead, nose and cheeks will give you the ultimate sun-kissed look.

Makeup for Dark Skin

You may need a heavier hand when applying make-up to dark skin -- but you need to choose the right shades. For eye shadow, gray, brown and natural shades will compliment your eyes. Also try shimmer colors such as silver, bronze, and terra-cotta. Experiment with mascara colors such as navy and dark purple.
For blush, more pigment for darker skin is a must. Deep rose and apricot shades highlight your cheekbones beautifully. Sometimes a bronze highlighter does the trick. Stay away from anything with a strong orange base as this will not flatter your skin.
Dark lip color such as apricot, blackberry, caramel and red will compliment your lips.

Olive and Ethnic Skin Tones

With your darker skin tone, neutral shades as well as dark purple and blue will look great on your eyes. Metallic colors also look remarkable, as long as the shades remain darker.
Highlight your cheekbones with bronzing powder, dark plum, chestnut, or terra-cotta blush. Keep the tones natural and avoid anything too light.
Lipstick shades that will bring out your lips are berry, plum, russet, or almond. Avoid "true" reds, they will clash with your skin tone.

"Natural makeup looks are always in style!"

The natural look is a makeup style that's always in fashion. It plays upon your best features and makes you look as nature intended – Only Better! Everyone should be able to create this style and fortunately it's easy to do if you know a few simple makeup tips that makeup artists use.

Apply moisturizer to face first, let dry then apply foundation with a sponge or brush. Make sure to not lather on you only want a bit of coverage. Then Apply a light powder over face.
Then you will want to use a natural tone eye cream shadow on eyes. Light browns work very well with this. You will want to apply from lash line upward, then you will want to apply a little bit darker shadow on your lower lid but very light careful to not over do it. After this apply the mascara of your choice. If you want to make eye seem more open and bright line lightly with a white eyeliner pencil.
Next you will want to apply a dewy blush color like a light, soft pink to your cheeks to create a little bit of a glow. Not too much though because you want it to be very subtle.
Last apply a clear or light pink shade of lip gloss over lips to give a bit of color.

A guideline on Sale Shopping!

2011-12-27T02:25:00.000-08:00

With some of the biggest shopping discounts of the year up for grabs, it's hard not to get carried away with the idea of the sales. However the reality of overcrowded high streets, flocks of bargain hunters and unorganized sale rails are a force to be reckoned with. Follow these tips on sale shopping.

Make a Plan
Pay a visit to your local high street in advance of the sales and plan which stores you want to visit. You'll be more familiar with the shop layout and know where to locate your dream items.
Dress Comfortably
Darting in and out of changing rooms, traipsing around your local shopping centre and waiting in endless queues is a tiring business. Wear comfortable flat shoes which can accommodate hot, swollen feet, and clothes that you can easily change out of so you don't waste valuable time in the changing rooms.
Know your Body Shape
The first step to successful clothes shopping in the sales is knowing your body shape. That way you'll know which clothes show off your best bits, making you feel confident about your style all the time. Stick to the body shape rules and you'll never make a rash sales purchase again. Pay attention to the balance of your figure and proportions. For example, ideal top length is just below your belt. Short jacket looks great with jeans, shirt or t-shirt. Cropped pants should finish at the widest part of your ankle and will look good with high heels, flats or ankle boots.
Stay Classic if you dont know your Style Personality
The sales are not the time to experiment with new fashion ideas. Those gold lame harem pants have 70% off for a reason: no one will be wearing them next year. This sale season stick to wardrobe staples such as a nice dress or a classic jacket - a much savvier sale purchase.
Classic pieces worth investing into:
- Trench coat
- Leather jacket
- Little black dress
- Jacket in Chanel style
- Neutral colored shirts and t-shirts
Read more about it http://coffeewithpensy.blogspot.com/2011/07/discover-your-style-personality.html

Play with color!
It’s elusive to think that if you fill up your closet with pieces of total black color you’ll have versatile wardrobe. You need color to splash to avoid looking like you’re at the office all the time. There are a couple of ways you can change your style using colors. For instance, a bright t-shirt seen from a V-sweater or a cardigan, loud accessories with a classic suit or a simple dress – will look appropriate both at work and at the party.
Double Up
We all know how difficult it can be to find that perfect pair of jeans. If you happen to stumble upon jean heaven during the sales, it's worth buying two pairs. Save one for when the first are starting to wear out - you'll thank yourself in months to come. Make sure your jeans finish just 5mm over the bottom of the heel.
Try Before You Buy
Although long queues for changing rooms can be off-putting, it's worth trying clothes on before you buy. Always ask if more sizes are available, and check garments for dodgy zips, snags and missing buttons before you hand over your cash.

Check the Returns Policy
Many shops only offer an exchange on sale items. Make sure you're entirely happy with your purchase - or are willing to buy something else from that store - before you buy.
Make your imagination fly
If you have an item that you like very much but it just doesn’t fit in your look don’t hurry to put it away. Think for a minute and make necessary corrections. Experiment with belts because they can change the silhouette. Don’t forget about brooches, scarves, kerchiefs and other stuff. Buy transformer things, look at street style of other people, and runway looks. The livelier your wardrobe is the better.

What every girl wants! Our insider tip!

2011-12-21T16:55:00.000-08:00

Want a hair straighter ghd but dont want to pay $325 for it, this is where i was a month ago until we searched online and found some great stores
http://www.ghdhair-straightenersnz.com/
http://www.ghd-nzsale.co.nz/

Get an official ghd for 1/2 of the price - heres my one, shipping took about 2 1/2 weeks but was worth it, it only cost me $140nz dollars
check it out toda!

Amanda:)

Evening Dresses for Teens

2011-12-04T16:57:00.000-08:00

Teens wear special dresses for occasions such as proms, formal parties and weddings. Designers target teenage girls with trendy fashions, textures and colors. When a teen shops for an evening dress, she should take into account her body type and choose a dress to flatter her shape. Today's flirty styles, interesting details and variety of fabrics give young girls many options.

Fabric
- Chiffon is a popular choice of fabric for teen evening dresses, according to Bridgette Raes, New York image and style expert. It is a delicate, translucent material that suits this age group. Lightweight fabrics are okay to wear in cooler weather, but teens should also consider velvets and heavier jacquard options. Bolder teenage girls may prefer shiny knits or fabric with sheen.
Color
- Raes says it is all about bright colors for today's teenage girls. Some of the popular evening dress shades for this age group are vibrant purple, royal blue, red, jade green and even bright yellow. Teens usually avoid the black cocktail dresses that are popular with adult women. When teens wear neutrals, they are typically extreme hues in grey, gold and soft "makeup" colors such as blush. Florals and prints are once again popular with teens (at the time of writing in 2011).
Trends
- Interesting straps take center stage on many of today's simple, elegant evening dresses for teens, according to Raes. Embellishments and jewels such as rhinestones adorn the straps. Teenage girls often want to show off their tan by wearing dresses with open back. The strap attachments create a point of interest. When teens choose shorter dresses, they typically have interesting bottom details, including flutter hems and ruffled flounce skirts. Layers of material such as tulle add bounce underneath the skirt.
Length
- Raes says girls under 16 should steer clear of long gowns. She suggests tea length for that age group -- below the knee and above the ankle. Older teens can wear longer dresses, especially to proms. They should be free flowing, simple styles that do not look like ball gowns.
Shape
- Teenage girls want to reflect the latest trends, but Raes says they should also consider body type. If you are a teen with curves, you need to choose a style that shows off your waist, such as the empire dresses. The garment should float away from the body.
  Many teenagers have slender frames or are thick in the middle, and a fluid silhouette looks best on them. Although halter dresses are popular with young girls, pear-shaped teenagers should avoid them. Pear-shaped figures need wider necklines and substantial straps to draw the eyes outward and balance out their larger hip and thigh areas.

This Christmas wear the right dress for your Body Shape!

2011-12-04T16:22:00.000-08:00

Christmas is round the corner! Everyone of us want to look our best on this special season! We can sure look our best just by choosing clothing that flatters our body shape.

Clothing Tips for Your Body Shape

The first and the foremost thing to do is determining your Body Shape.

Apple Shape: if you have upper body larger than your lower body and weight gain tends to happen around the waistline, emphasize lesser on waist and broad shoulders. Go for dresses that are shaped but not tight. V-neck will give you more elongated look. Cinched waists or wrap tops and belted or nipped waist jackets will give illusion of a smaller waist. Skirts, fitted at the top and flaring at the hemline will balance the top and the bottom.
Don't wear boxy blazers that make waist and rest of the body appear bigger. Instead, wear single-breasted fitted blazer after ensuring that it defines the waist but is loose enough in the chest to make you comfortable.

Pear Shape: if you have a smaller upper body and weighty hips, thighs, and legs, bring attention to the upper half of your body. Go for wider necklines like bateau, squared, or cowl necks. Jackets that fall just above the hip are better than longer ones. Vertical patterns on the lower half will give slim appearance. Wear dark colors, that don't shine, on the bottom half and lighter colors on top. A full skirt with defined waist or a full, pleated knee-length skirt will conceal a wide hip and if paired with strapless cut dress, it will highlight your smaller upper half. A funnel shaped coat with buttons on the top half or with a belt will bring attention to the waist.
Don't wear clingy skirts that highlight hips, or empire waist dresses which hides the waistline. Instead go for A-line skirt or wrap dress that will accentuate your upper half.

Hourglass Shape: if you have a defined waist and curvy upper and lower body, try to draw attention to your narrow waist, or de-emphasize breasts and hips to give impression of a longer, leaner look. Waist-defining belted garments or wrap dresses, apparels with cinched waists, high raised pants and skirts, fitted skirts and dresses, all will bring out your curves. For elongated look, go for v-necks, monochromatic colors, thin and lightweight fabrics, single buttoned jackets, or empire-waist dresses.
Don't wear tight, wide-cut pants that make the bottom appear wider. Instead wear wide legged trouser which is full but not flared.

Rectangle Shape: if you have fewer defined curves and your waist, hips & breast measurements are similar to each other, try to create illusion of curves. Scoop or v-neck tops, jackets having defined waists or flaring out from the waist, tops and blouses having details around the chest area for giving shape, draping dresses having patterns on them, halter tops, gathering and pleating on sleeves and waist, Skinny jeans hugging the hips, all will help you in creating curves. Trims such as lace, beads and waist-defining belts over shirts, cardigans, coats, etc. will also help you in your task.
Don't wear bright metallic tops to avoid attention on large chest. Don't go for white belt, instead wear dark brown one and avoid horizontal stripes that tend to make anything look wider. Try monochromatic tops and bottoms that give taller and leaner look.
The most important tip is that of accepting your natural body shape and accentuating your unique beauty by experimenting with fabrics, colors, and styles!

summer, urban outfits!

2011-11-16T14:40:00.000-08:00

Style is about your self, discovering what you like, who you are and what looks best on you. Try new combinations. have fun with color! summer is here!! enjoy it!

How to Deal with Acne

2011-11-16T14:10:00.001-08:00

Hi Girls, found this article, its very helpful

http://www.teenvogue.com/beauty/beautycrisis/2011/09/how-to-deal-with-acne#intro

Stacey asks: I have acne on my face and can't help but be self-conscious about it. I don't even like to wear my hair up in a ponytail anymore. I want to get rid of it fast. Can you please help me?
Stacey, you're not alone! The truth is, 86% of young women struggle with acne at some point. According to Mona Gohara, M.D., Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Yale School of Medicine, "Hormones, trapped dead skin cells, oil (which clog pores), and bacteria are the axis of evil when it comes to breakouts.Recent studies also show that stress and diets high in dairy or simple carbs containing refined sugars (i.e., chips, pastries, and candy bars) can cause acne by raising blood cortisol/insulin levels," she notes. So first off, make sure you de-stress regularly and eat a well-balanced, healthy diet. The next step is to keep your pores clean and kill zit-causing skin bacteria by following Dr. Gohara's complexion-clearing advice!

In the morning:

When rinsing out shampoo and conditioner, tilt your head back so that no products run onto your face and clog your pores. Same goes for leave-in styling products; protect the skin by creating a shield with your hand when applying.
With lukewarm water, gently wash the face with a cleanser containing salicylic acid. Don't scrub or use harsh abrasive soaps. Acne is not caused by dirt, and over-scrubbing can dry out the skin, which signals your oil glands to produce more oil than your pores can handle. Salicylic acid is a fabulous warrior against whiteheads because it liberates trapped dead skin cells by gently exfoliating. For oily skin, wash with a salicylic acid-based cleanser five mornings a week; for dry skin, use three mornings a week. I like Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash or Kiehl's Blue Herbal Cleanser.
Again, to avoid over-drying the skin, moisturization is essential. If you have oily skin, stick with a light lotion; for dry skin, creams work best. Try Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer or CeraVe AM Facial Lotion (both have the benefit of added SPF).
It's OK to use makeup for covering up pimples, but avoid using thick, oil- or liquid-based foundations because they can actually cause pimples—a condition called acne cosmetica. Stick to mineral makeup, which is light and less likely to contribute to the issue, and steer clear of mica; the jagged, flaky shape of mica particles can cause irritation and/or clogging in your follicles. I recommend CoverGirl TRUBlend.

At night:

Hit the sack with a clean slate—wash off all the extra germs that latch on to your makeup throughout the day. Ideally, use a mild non-soap cleanser with a neutral PH, like Cetaphil Antibacterial Cleansing Bar, to get the job done. This product works for all skin types.
Apply a benzoyl peroxide product to help fight acne-causing bacteria. This is an essential step! Use a pea-size amount of product to avoid irritation and redness. My favorite products: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo and Clinique Acne Solutions Emergency Lotion—both are great for their anti-bacterial and exfoliating properties.

Pimple Prevention:

Avoid picking and popping at all cost! As tempting as it may seem, the damage to the skin can be severe, leaving you with long-lasting marks or scars.
To avoid transferring bacteria and oil, try not to touch your face throughout the day. Keep your hands on your lap—not against your chin—during class.
Change your bedding at least once a week. Pillowcases can act as a perfect reservoir for pore-clogging facial oils and bacteria.
If possible, sneak away to the bathroom between classes for a midday facial wipe down. I like Aveeno Positively Radiant Cleansing Pads.
Or for the au naturel gal: A tablespoon of baking soda mixed with a teaspoon of water makes a great exfoliator. Need to step it up? Add one or two drops of tea tree oil to natural green clay powder and a little water, making a thick paste. Apply to your face for ten minutes, one to two times a month.

Skin 911: When time is not on your side and you have an unsightly zit, don't fret—the solution may be closer than you think. Crush aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) and add a little bit water to form a paste. Place it directly on the pimple and watch it fade away. For more stubborn spots, apply a dab of over-the-counter cortisone.
When To See A Dermatologist:For painful pustules and deep cystic pimples, you may want to seek the advice of a dermatologist before scars set in. This type of acne oftentimes requires prescription retinol products, oral medications, or in-office treatments, such as cortisone injections or strong chemical peels.
Jeanne :)

My thoughts on Fashion and Trends

2011-11-16T14:10:00.000-08:00

I think that fashion 'trends' and 'fads' are just a designers way of making an income, and not a necessity to follow. I think models wear them because they get paid to do so.

I, personally don't follow them or care too much about what the latest fad or trend is.
I just go out, buy what I like and try to make it my own. I don't like looking like or doing what everyone else is doing or wearing exactly what everyone else is wearing. There are things I don't avoid all together, like leggings, for example, despite everybody wearing them and them being all over the stores. I wear them cos they're comfortable, and naturally try not to be a carbon copy of something I've seen.
I believe that everyone can take what's out there and make it their own!

There are definitely basic essential items, like shorts, t-shirts, jeans, skirts, dresses etc out there to suit every kind of figure. Its up to the individual to make sure he/she knows what best suits him/her. The same goes for color, make-up, shoes, accessories, hairstyles etc.

The reason I say this, is extremely vital to each and every person; for efficiency sake! In other words: to make the most out of your day! Otherwise laborious amount of time and energy may be spent in stores trying and testing, even buying and returning!

So these three resources: (if graciously available to us) Time, Energy and Money would be optimized if we take the time in the first place, to learn more about ourselves and what suits us best!! ---> Which is what I refer to as the 'Easier way)

So this is just me and the way I think and feel. I hate wasting my time, energy and my money. All this learned the hard way! (i.e by wasting my time, energy & money, sometimes to the point of giving me a headache)

So hopefully you will learn the lesson sooner than later and the easier way ofcourse!
I enjoy having a more productive day because I like getting more done!
(Sometimes I do sleep in after a couple of good movies! Like today! :-O ;-) but I'm trying not to)

I love helping people be beautiful "inside and out" and believe that everyone is and can be! <3

So go on and find your best you!, till next time.

Keep looking sharp!
Jeanne

Summer 2011 - Platform Sandals Trends

2011-11-16T14:09:00.000-08:00

The warmer season brings with it a wide range of sandals. Among all the different styles and shapes, platforms seem to always come back reinventing themselves season after season. Whether they are high-heeled or not, platform sandals have long proved their versatility and practicality, being both comfortable, despite their amazing height, and elegant. Therefore, you don't have to make a compromise. Take a look to some of the spring/summer 2011 platform sandals trends. .

Tea Party?

2011-11-16T14:05:00.000-08:00

I love these Lauren Conrad dresses! Wearable, classic and beautiful!!! Big trend this summer.

Make Up Tips for Teens

2011-11-16T14:04:00.000-08:00

http://www.confidencestyle.co.nz/

The perfect look for a teenager is a neutral and natural makeup. For most of the teenage girls a light foundation, black or brown mascara and a little bit of a blush should be enough. Teens should never apply too heavy makeup, tons of foundation or face powder because their skin is still young and fresh-looking. Soft and matte colors will suit every teenager. Unfortunately many teenage girls apply too much makeup in order to make them look older (red lipstick too much blush, too much eye makeup) and the result isn’t very pleasant.
If you are over 30 you may apply makeup to accentuate your best features and to hide the first signs of aging, but if you are a teenager you should use makeup simply to enhance your natural beauty.

Another mistake that many teenagers make is that they apply too much concealer, foundation and powder to hide pimples, scars, blackheads or large pores. Actually doing so is a huge, huge mistake. This way you make your face look unnatural and like a mask and it can also lead to more serious skin problems like acne, more clogged pores (blackheads), whiteheads, discolorations and rashes. Remember: applying the appropriate amount of any makeup product is the first step to a flawless makeup.

The first and the most important thing for a flawless teens’ makeup is to keep your skin cleansed, toned and moisturized everyday. Wash your face every day with a gentle facial cleanser both in the morning and in the evening. Choose a product that is appropriate for your skin type and for the needs of your skin. If you have acne-prone skin, look for products containing alpha hydroxyl, benzoyl peroxide. Using and applying a facial toner is a must even if your skin is dry or sensitive. The toners are designed to remove surface oils and any dirt residue that your cleanser may have missed. They nourish the skin and whisk away impurities that usually lead to breakouts and blemishes.

Fashion tips for plus sizes

2011-11-15T02:18:00.000-08:00

http://www.confidencestyle.co.nz/

Be comfortable with what you wear.The most important ingredient in looking good in what you wear is feeling good and comfortable in it. A positive attitude towards your dressing sense and appropriate display of self-confidence through your clothes is very essential to appear stylish.

Although black always appears to make you look slimmer, try outfits with dissimilar colors. This would help in enhancing your personality and also add to the variations you can try with your looks.

If you have a heavy body but slimmer legs, do non feel embarrassed to show them off by wearing knee-length skirts, etc. In case your legs are not that slim – you still have many choices in how to cover them up and yet look pretty in your outfit. Why not consider an evening gown, trousers, long skirts etc.

Wear appropriate undergarments to fit with your dress so that your body shape does not look disproportionate in a particular outfit.

Choose dresses that are flattering

knee lenght - one color

Empire waist dress

V-neck dress embellished

Wrap style dress

For heavy bodies it is always recommended to have shorter heels or wedges rather than the pencil shaped ones, mainly because a box heel would balance plus sizing body much better than a pencil heel.

For the office look

Get down to business with slimming black capris: simple yet chic, they demand a top that flatters your figure yet still looks professional. My number-one choice? The sleeveless wrap blouse with its deep V-neckline, feminine ruching, and waist-defining lateral tie.

Maxi dresses yes or no?

2011-11-09T14:37:00.000-08:00

Maxi dresses yes or no? by stylewithpensy featuring a blue bag

What to wear to a Job Interview in the Summer?

2011-11-07T20:15:00.000-08:00

Business managers use job interviews to evaluate candidates' professionalism and judge how well they will fit within the company's culture. Dressing professionally and comfortably during a job interview helps a woman make a successful first impression. Equally important are good grooming and personal hygiene. Unfortunately, if a job interview takes place during the summer, standard professional attire can lead to perspiration, a disheveled appearance and even body odor. When interviewing for a job in the summer, it is important to dress sharply but also comfortably for warm weather to avoid feeling uncomfortable during the interview.

Choose subtle solors
- Warmer months mean lighter, brighter clothing colors, but the rule of thumb for a job interview is to always dress conservatively. Avoid bright hues or bold patterns and opt for a white or pastel blouse to pair with a suit skirt or slacks. Sundresses are a more casual option that may be acceptable for an interview with an informal company, but some employers may not consider them as professional as a business suit with slacks or a skirt. Jeans and shorts are too casual for any job interview.
Wear summer fabrics
- Be sure to wear a breathable fabric to the interview. Choose clothing that does not show perspiration marks or cling to sweat-dampened skin. Wrinkle-resistant fabrics are ideal because they will not crease in the car on the way to the interview. Remember that most interviews take place in air-conditioned offices, so consider an outfit with a blouse worn under a jacket, and wait to put on the jacket until you reach the interview site.
Cover up
- Although women tend to wear less clothing in the summer, a job interview is not the time to show skin. Blouses with long or three-quarter sleeves are much more professional than sleeveless tops. Never wear a low-cut blouse to a job interview. If a skirt is worn, it should not be shorter than knee-length. Shoes should be closed-toe pumps or flats, not sandals. Pantyhose in a skin-matching color look more professional than bare legs.
Miminize makeup and accessories
- A clean, tidy appearance is important during a job interview. Especially in the summer, always shower just before dressing for an interview. Hair should be completely dry and worn in a professional style, and jewelry should be kept to a minimum. Makeup should be light and natural, not overdone. Avoid wearing heavy perfume to the job interview to cover up perspiration or odors. Opt for a very light scent such as a body mist, or avoid perfume altogether.

source: eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/way

outfits for the Melbourne Cup

2011-11-01T04:06:00.000-07:00

outfits for the Melbourne Cup by stylewithpensy featuring dressy shoes

Why Color is so important in Fashion

2011-10-26T17:43:00.000-07:00

I came came across this great article today about the importance of Color written by Susan Lockhart a leading Image Consultant in Brisbane.

Colour is the first thing other people notice about us, and its impact is immediate and long-lasting. Our fashion color choices say a lot about the image we are trying to portray and how we feel about ourselves.

So what does color tell people?

Within seconds of meeting you, others will respond to the 'color messages' flashed by your clothes. It is a fact that different colors can make people feel a certain way. It has even been determined by medical science that color can influence the viewer's hormones, blood pressure and body temperature. Colour also has an impact on:

Your apparent shape
Your apparent weight
Your apparent personality
Your emotions
Others emotions

Other important considerations are how appropriate the colour is for the location, occasion, time of year, your age and of course, your natural colouring. We are all influenced by colour every day, whether we realise it or not. If we're having a bad day and not feeling good about ourselves, we tend to automatically choose clothes in dull neutral colours like black, grey or brown because they match how we're feeling. Just as when we're happy and feeling great we will go for something a bit brighter.

Have a look in your wardrobe and see how many different colours you own. Do you have a veritable rainbow of outfits? Or are there just 1 or 2 colours that you wear a variation of all the time? You may find you are stuck in a colour rut. Knowing this, why not experiment with the colours you wear and surround yourself with.

The first rule is to always be guided by what suits your natural colouring - that is your skin tone, eye colour and hair colour. Once you know your best range of colours, you can choose different colours for different occasions.

Sometimes a certain combination of colours will create the affect, rather than each colour individually. Colours produce different reactions when put together in different colour combinations and when used in different fabrics.

For example, a red jacket worn with a white shirt to a business meeting exhibits confidence and power, but a red jacket worn with a lacy red top may be interpreted as you having other things on your mind besides this business meeting.

So which colours are appropriate for what situations? Which colours can help you portray a certain image?

Here is a list of colours for woman that are ideal for a whole range of occasions:

Blue-based reds: Suggests intelligence and femininity.
Yellow-based reds: Energetic colour that keeps conversations going (Men are inherently attracted to yellow-based reds - a great colour for a first date)
Purple: Stirs the senses and generates passion - great for creative endeavours
Turquoise: puts other women at ease, encourages them to open up
Lipstick red: implies strength and authority
Medium blues: a calming colour that allows interactions to go smoothly

Browns: non-threatening, stable, supportive and reliable (great for meetings with colleagues or clients)

Remember, the most important thing is to choose colours that are a good fit for your natural colouring. There is no point choosing a colour that suggests creativity and confidence if it also makes you look washed out or sick.

Wearing your best range of colours can have a huge impact on your wardrobe and your confidence. The right colours can make your skin tone appear more even, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and dark circles and make you look brighter and healthier. While on the other hand wearing a colour which isn't so good for you, can make you look tired, dull and even ill. A colour analysis with a professional image consultant will sh
ow you exactly which range of colours are best for your clothing, makeup and accessories.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Susan_Lockhart

Do you want to feel beautiful? Focus on your best features!

2011-10-25T17:54:00.000-07:00

How often do you stand and look in the mirror, only to zone in on your figure challenges? “Ah, my bottom looks so big.” “My tummy is definitely not what it used to be!” “I wish I had longer legs”.

So often we only focus on the negatives, the things we don’t like about ourselves. Sometimes we can even get a bit obsessive about how bad we think our figure challenges are. This can make us a bit depressed, self-conscious, and insecure. It’s a bad cycle.

We are all different, we all have the body parts we try to disguise or camouflage. We have different body shapes. The key to looking good, and feeling confident, is to focus on your favorite features.

Focusing on the positive rather than the negative makes you look at yourself in a different light. We each have features that we like about ourselves, and that’s good, it’s healthy. It’s not arrogant to admit that you have nice legs, or great hair. It’s good to be thankful for the positive things about ourselves.

So, I want you to think about your body. What are the 3 things that you love most about the way you look? Do you love your hair, do you have beautiful eyes? Do you have fabulous legs or a great bust? Each and every one of you is made beautiful. We need to celebrate our great features, and learn how to dress our figure challenges.

Looking great is all about working with your body shape, not against it. It’s all about creating balance, by camouflaging your figure challenges, and enhancing your favorite features.

Color can hugely affect how proportioned you look. Knowing your body shape helps you to know what color to wear on what part of your body.

Here is my color rule: Wear darker, plainer colors on your areas of figure challenge, your larger half. Wear lighter, brighter colors and patterns or texture on your smaller half. The eye will be drawn to the lighter, brighter shades, and skip over the darker shades.

How to wear Merino? not only in winter!

2011-10-16T03:23:00.000-07:00

http://www.confidencestyle.co.nz/services/makeover-package

I gave a Color Training to the staff of "I love Merino" Boutique in the Mount Manganui last week; and I was impressed with the variaty of styles and colors that Merino offers! I Love Merino wear is not only for winter season, it can be worn as a basic piece any day of the year!

Look at Katherine Hiegl’s Spring chic look! The merino cardigan can be worn over a dress for a more comfy look and even used to replace a jacket for the office. The white shirt goes with everything (skirts, shorts or slacks). The boots can be paired with a denim skirt or a dress; and let’s not forget the fashionable yellow bag – the perfect way to add color to any outfit. A merino cardigan is a great investment and will, in the end, stretch your dollar by expanding your options.
With some key pieces in the right colors, tops, scarves, dresses which can be mixed and matched to create gorgeous combinations that will look great and feel conformable for work or casual.

See below for some examples.

If you are looking for quality, colorful, merino wear, you can not go past "I love Merino" an exclusive Merino Boutique in the heart of Mt. Manganui with the largest range of merino in the Bay: Fashion merino, Superfine merino basics and Possum merino. Great gifts to send to your family and friends oversees.
I love Merino is situated on the corner of Maunganui Rd and Price Ave, downtown the mount. Open 7 days!