Q. I’ve seen some co-workers have the cutest rolled-up sleeves, but I’m not great at doing it myself. Are there any tips? Marnie K., Evanston
A. Nice-looking rolled up sleeves first depend on the shirt and style. But some overall help: if you want a neat and tidy look, keep it smooth, roll up to the width on one cuff, and button the small button if there is one. For a messier/trendier look, button the short button first if there is one, flip the cuff all the way up and then roll up part-way to leave a flap. From there, bend the fabric on top as you like.
Q. I’m going to be the mother of the bride this Fall and need help! Any recommendations? Stacy H. Vernon Hills
A. You’re in luck! I’ve actually done quite a bit of recent special-events shopping for clients and this is truly one of the things that brings me joy. I love how finding the right dress makes my clients feel amazing – but with so many options at the store it is important to try things on and make sure they look and feel right for you and the occasion. First, start early! Consider the wedding colors, formality, location, season and time of day. Next, make sure you dress for comfort as well as fashion — you will be in that dress for a long time! And don’t forget all the accessories (like jewelry) to pull off that stellar look!
I also tend to recommend more neutral, elegant colors (that don’t steal away the focus from the bride) and there are a few local stores that do carry a nice selection. Otherwise, I’m a big fan of ordering dresses online in multiple sizes, doing a fashion show at home and returning what doesn’t work. Don’t forget this is also a great time to learn about what’s best for you in choosing makeup, shoes, undergarments/lingerie and hairstyle to make both the event and your special day photo-perfect.
Q. I’m getting tired of wearing pants and capris all the time, but not quite comfortable with my legs, especially my calves and ankles. Any dress suggestions for me?
A. Well you asked the right girl! If you didn’t know already, I’m a big fan of the dress. I love the “one and done” quality and a less-stressful “what matches?” experience. They are big this season, so I’d recommend updating with a midi dress, especially in a wrap, shirt or shift style. The midi can be extra flattering when they hit in the right place (just above your ankle bone) and are nice enough to go everywhere. Plus they cover more leg which is a plus for what you’re describing. Asymmetrical hems, whimsical florals, stripes and patterns are new-ish for the season if you do want to try them out.
Q. I’ve lost a little weight and not sure what to do with my clothes that are now too big, especially my pants (good problem to have, right?), but I do tend to fluctuate. What do you think?
A. Contrary to many people’s opinion, I probably would keep the higher quality clothes if it were me and just put them in a box labeled with the size. I think it’s kinder to have options given the many ups and downs that are possible. Remove items that are dated or worn that you wouldn’t choose to wear again anyway.
I also think it makes sense to keep pants or other staple items that are a little too small for the same reason.
Speaking of pants, I do get some questions around how best to keep them in your closet. Here’s my recommendation:
- Always hang dress pants
- Fine to fold and pile jeans/casual pants on a shelf, but I do hang mine as well
- When hanging, I like the plastic clip hangers you can get at Container Store and hang them by the waistband if you have the space for full-length. If not, folding them over the hangers is fine.
Q. My office is “business casual” but I can’t seem to find the right balance between what the younger set is wearing trend-wise, and “acting my age”. Any suggestions? Cheryl B.
A. I’m often asked about what is age-appropriate, and my recommendation is to use current trends in small doses paired with more conservative, tailored shapes.
For example, a smaller floral print top, with a basic black ankle pant and cute shoe would update you without making you look like a slave to fashion. You can also do a hint of animal print or a nice plaid jacket to round out the season on-trend.
One last consideration: any trend that shows too much skin (i.e. a very open cold-shoulder) is probably not for you in an office setting.
Q. I’m going to be on a video call interviewing for a new job, and was thinking about what to wear (collar type, necklace, colors, etc.). Do you have some ideas for me? Amy S.
A. Always great to hear from you!
Skype interviews are much more common now, and the great news is you only need to focus on the waist up! Here are a few tips to share:
1. Make-up is important here: at a minimum be sure to use a good foundation, blush, lipstick, eyeliner and mascara.
2. For clothes, you might want a collared blouse or simple shell that lays flat against your neckline, paired with a cardigan or jacket. If it’s for a more professional position, keep the shell and update to a black or navy jacket. Also, solids almost always look better in “on camera” situations.
3. Thinking of jewelry, I’d suggest a simple, pretty necklace that hits above the top of your neckline. Don’t forget earrings… hoops are a nice, classic choice.
4. Finally, make sure you have a professional looking background for wherever you have your call.
Good luck!
Q. I’ve seen a lot of ads showing the “Matte Look” in lipstick. I bought some but it looks a little weird. What do you think? Cheryl B.
A. While the dry look of matte lips is popular, I much prefer a little sheen or shimmer on my lips. I think a little shine suits more skin types and age ranges, and is much more forgiving than a dry matte finish color. If you do want to try it, make sure your lips are well moisturized first!
Q. I need a foundation that will look good and won’t cost me an arm and a leg… please help! Marni, Bonnockburn, IL
A. I often suggest Clinique Even Better foundation (or Clinique Acne Solutions foundation for those who are still breaking out) to my clients because it has a wonderful finish that enhances their skin and looks very natural at a reasonable price.
For those that are looking for even more value, there are drugstore foundations that work. For my money though, I prefer the department store brands when you’re dealing with a product that’s as foundational as foundation. You’ll want to try it on and make sure it’s the exact right color, as well as return it if you’re not happy after a few applications.
To make sure your skin looks smooth and even (not made -up), try this to get the best results:
- Apply moisturizer/spf for your skin type and let it sink in before applying foundation (also a good time to put on eye cream and lip balm).
I like to use my fingers, but a brush or sponge is fine, and apply sparingly over the face – you can always go back and add. - Blend! And then blend some more over the edge of your face where it attaches to the neck. You don’t want lines.
- If you use powder to set your make up, I suggest doing it extremely lightly as you age because an overly dry powdery finish is not a great look for aging skin. As someone with combination skin I tend to very lightly powder only my more oily areas.
- When trying a new foundation, it’s important to keep an eye out it doesn’t turn “orangey” or irritate your skin.
One more thought – I’ve had a lot of people ask me about “Clean” formulations, but there are many different levels of clean and what it means. I tend to have trouble with some natural ingredients for allergy reasons and go more with hyper allergenic products, but have definitely worked with several clients on finding things that have more natural ingredients.
Q. Hello my friend – I need you again! I have a new body to dress, having gained 30lbs in the last year. And as I get older it is settling differently – more in my stomach and legs.
I can’t figure out how to dress this body. I need an intervention, or at least some guidelines (on a small budget) when I go shop for Fall. If I don’t, I will go the yoga pants and big sweatshirt route and I don’t want to do that.
Please provide guidelines, or a few simple, staple things I can get and use a lot. Stores to look at would be great too. Thank you!!! P.G.
A. I am happy to help!
First of all, be kind to yourself. Remember that “there are times in your life when you just need to take up more space “!
I definitely relate and always try to be as gentle with myself as possible and buy clothes that I feel good in.
To your questions, stores that work on a smaller budget are still Target, Old Navy, and I often have good luck at Lord&Taylor and Macys sale racks. J Jill (look for sales and coupons) also carries lots of things that will fit a rounder middle easily.
Look for flowy tops that skim over your middle with skinnier-leg pants. V-neck or scoopneck is a more flattering line than boatneck. Jeans can be great, and add a cardigan, jean jacket or army green jacket and a great longer necklace. If going with a boot cut or flare pant, you’ll want a chunky heel. You should also consider dresses with an A-line shape that don’t cling in the middle.
Fit is always important. Having something fit well in the shoulders can balance a more generous middle.
I hope this is a good start for you, and happy to talk more if you need! You are beautiful inside and out!
Q. Sometimes when I’m at the stores, I get overwhelmed with all the choices and feel like I’m looking for a needle in a haystack. Boutique stores are easier to navigate, but they don’t have a wide selection. Any advice? Rena W. Long Grove
A. Choice overload feels like a good problem to have, but I agree it can be hard finding clothes, shoes, whatever, when you’re not in the right frame of mind or don’t have a good strategy.
I just read this article on “maximizing” vs. “satisficing” that might help. Basically, some people make choices to maximize their satisfaction, with a goal of finding just the perfect thing. Satisficers are those that are happy to settle for a good option, not necessarily the ultimate best, but it’ll do the job well. We can talk further, but I’m thinking maybe trying a “buy it and be done” mentality could help you feel less stressed in stores. Let me know what you think!
Q. I know cropped boyfriend jeans and pants are still in, but I never know what shoes to wear with them. Can you help?
Suzie B. Buffalo Grove, IL
A. Great question, as there is some method to matching shoes and cuffs, and making sure your cropped bottoms (falling 1-3 inches above the ankle-bone) pair well with your footwear.
Generally, ankle strap or gladiator sandals will look good with cropped pants, but for cooler weather you can also go with high-vamped footwear (cuts higher on your foot) like loafers, booties or mules so you can create a continuous visual line with the shorter length.
For shorter crops, low vamp shoes (cutting across the front of the foot) can make your legs look longer.
Definitely try on the pants with the shoes, as your own body and the pant hemline, will help dictate what will look best.
On a related note, did you know there are different ways to roll your cuffs? They can add a great finishing touch to your look, but do take care to pair the cuff with the right types of shoes as well. Here are some basics:
- Use a thin and even roll (about 1″) to pair with booties (shows of the shoes!)
- Wide cuffs (about 4″) go nicely with athletic shoes or slip ons
- A messier, thin cuff goes nicely with ballet flats or summer sandals (more tomboyish look)
- Try this interesting rolled cuff with pumps or other pretty shoes for a “fun” look: make a wide cuff, then fold halfway up and fold the top fabric over that and scrunch.
Q. Can I wear white jeans in the Fall? I was told you couldn’t wear them after Labor Day, but I do see them around.
Krista G., Riverwoods, IL
A. White jeans definitely work, but it’s really up to you and what you’re comfortable with. If you’re game, the key to wearing white jeans in Fall is to pair them with Fall and Winter colors, or neutrals.I know this sounds obvious, but sometimes it helps to hear the simple ways to switch up your wardobe. If you choose a lighter color, be sure to use a warm, fuzzy texture. And it’s important to keep your footwear neutral and to the season. Think white with gray, brown, black, camel and wine.
Q. I keep hearing about “capsule wardrobes”. What are they and should I get one?
Jeannette R., Libertyville, IL
A. So many of my clients ask me about the capsule wardrobe, which is basically a way to mix and match fewer, classic, staple pieces to simplify your clothing choices and look. It takes a lot of discipline and work to figure out what’s critical for your closet since we are all so different. There’s no “one size fits all” formula. One person might think jeans are essential, another dresses and yet another leggings as a main staple.
After going through this exercise a few times, what I’ve come to realize is that even though my customers like the idea of a capsule wardrobe, they usually aren’t quite as happy with the reality. Most clients — really, most people — like new things. They bring fun, excitement and variety into our lives. So while a capsule is good as a base starting point to streamline your look, I think it’s even more important to constantly evaluate what makes you feel good when you wear it and continually remove anything that doesn’t.
When I’m working with a client, we get much better results when we go through and figure out what outfit formulas they like to wear and what types of pieces work for them and why. Given the endless possibilities for capsule wardrobes (the fashion world gives us tons of choices – check some out on Pinterest), and our own personal predilections, I think we need to be more flexible. So yes, clean out and simplify your closet, and yes, come up with great looks from existing pieces (or get what you need to complete the basics). But finally, and it’s a big one, don’t forget to add new things that feel fresh and interesting. It’s the spice of life!
What to wear on a first date
Many of my clients ask me about what to wear on a first date. Whether it’s a divorce, widowhood, or they just want to rekindle that first blush of romance with their partner, it can be nerve-wracking to choose the right clothes to set the right tone.
It’s no surprise that men are visual creatures, In my work, I’ve helped a matchmaker friend with both her male and female clients on “date readiness”. She explained to me her take that while both men and women are seeking people who have substance in their character, men have a much harder time seeing the substance if the packaging isn’t right. Not necessarily fair, but it seems that’s the world we live in.
When I work with male clients, I instruct them to wear well-tailored clothes that fit them just right and look fresh and up-to-date. I lead them away from pleated pants and tired looking shoes. No sneakers either!
For female clients, I suggest they pick out a “first date go-to outfit” (and even a “second” and “third”) so they won’t have to think about it each time. Though dependent on personality and desire, I often suggest dressing in a way that looks fresh, uncomplicated, feminine, and flattering to their shape. This could be anything from jeans to a simple dress.
Here a few other quick tips:
- Go with natural-looking make-up, but maybe take it up one notch. If you’re not sure what to do, it’s easy to find help.
- Wear color – it can brighten you up
- Go feminine but not overly provocative with skirts and dresses.
- Be conscious of the venue — you’ll want to dress differently for a coffee date than a theater event.
- Skip baggy clothes..save them for hanging out!
And remember, dressing for a date is not about showing off brands or being trendy. It’s about high-lighting and accentuating the positive and being comfortable in the clothes you choose.
What’s new with Scarves?
Another question I often get asked is how best to wear a scarf. There are truly dozens of ways to wear them, but I’m seeing a few styles this Spring that might freshen up your look.
- With a long and skinny scarf, drape it around your neck and tie in front.
- A “French” version is called a neck tie. Take a small silk scarf and tie it around your neck with a simple knot worn to the side.
- With a larger scarf, you can make an “oversized square” by folding it diagonally and wrapping it around the front.
Q. My job was just downsized and I’m back in the job market after many years. Curious if the dress code has changed at all. Rena W., Buffalo Grove, IL
A. What to wear for an interview varies by the field and type of interview that you are having so it’s important to know what is “normal” based on your industry. The overall goal is to make yourself look appropriate and competent in your field without bringing a lot of attention to clothing. You want your interviewer to focus on what you are saying and not what you are wearing!
Generally speaking, however, formal dress is appropriate in most situations so start with a good basic suit in a dark color. Even if the business is more business casual, I feel that in the initial interview it doesn’t hurt to look as professional as you can.
Couple of exceptions: 1) if the company is very high-tech and supercasual where a businessman in a coat and tie looks out of place, I would suggest swapping your briefcase for a high quality tote or backpack but still look professional, and 2) if the company is very “creative”, you might want to show off your style personality with a little more color and edge.
No matter the company, you’ll want to look as pulled together and as attentive to detail as possilbe. I suggest clients wear the best suit they can afford and have it tailored to their body. I think women should add color as they’re comfortable. Grooming is so important too. You’ll want professional looking make-up, perfectly groomed hands and polished new-looking shoes with no scuffs or worn out heels. Hairstyles should be neat and up to date without being trendy, and any accessories should be as high-quality looking as possible. Stay away from being flashy, glitzy or provocative, and best to forego all but the very lightest perfume or cologne as well.
Putting in the time and effort to get your make-up, clothes and hair just right is always worth it for an interview. When those things reflect the best you, people can much better hear your message and see the good qualities you can bring to the job rather than focusing on details that look off.
And best of luck to you in your search!
Q. As the warm weather comes near I remember how hard it is to keep make up on my eyes! What are some suggestions to keep shadows lasting and looking fresh in warmer weather? Michelle S., Vernon Hills
A. At a recent make-up workshop I did, many women admitted to using eyeshadow without an eyeshadow base underneath or are using concealer on their upper lids as a base.
To keep eyeshadow where you put it…and avoid gathering in the creases of your eyes …an eyeshadow base isessential. I like the MAC’s paint tube “untitled”, Urban Decay’s Original Primer Potion and Tarte’s Clean Slate eyeshadow primer.
I have a few tips for other make up too:
1) always very lightly pat with powder to set make up and give long-lasting wear.
2) wear a soft shine lipstick vs. a gloss. it tends to migrate less off the edges of your lips.
3) keep your summer essentials on hand. For me, that’s sunscreen, foundation or tinted moisturizer, eyeliner, brow pencil, eyeshadow base and a light shadow, mascara, blush and lipstick.
You’ll be looking as fresh as a daisy!
Q. I have many pieces in my wardrobe that I like when I buy but can’t ever seem to find a good match for… Can you help? Marcy K., Riverwoods
A. Lots of my clients have the same problem! It’s fun to shop for pretty tops or skirts, especially when we find them on sale, but frustrating when you get home to find there’s no match. These orphans in your closet will often stay unused and eventually be given away.
Two tips I have when shopping that I use for my clients:
1) Photograph the item you’re trying to match so you can compare in the store, or
2) Even better, take the piece with you!
Typically, I encourage clients to either buy a complete outfit at once, or be confident when choosing single pieces they can use it with something that already exists in their closet. Of course it’s important to any wardrobe to put together separate pieces into multiple outfits. My mantra is making sure my clients have key staple items on hand, as well as the “star” pieces that are so fun to purchase.
No matter your shopping style, finding stores that take returns can make your life easier. Sometimes it’s only after we get home that we’re sure these pieces are the ones we really love and will use!
Q. Many clients ask me about whether it’s better to have a few good things they can wear over and over again or to have less expensive choices and more quantity.
This is a question that has no wrong answer – it’s really up to the wearer how much “hot” trends play a part in his or her wardrobe.
My rule of thumb is to have 70% of your wardrobe higher quality, more classic pieces and 30% trendy. I think most women, myself included, like to have a few new things to feel updated and current. I’d spend less on trendy items and enjoy them while the look is in style! Don’t wait or save your new clothes and accessories for a special occasion. Put together those new, exciting outfit combinations and wear them!
Q. I know that wearing one color can make you look slimmer, but how do you make it look not as boring? Amy S., Buffalo Grove
A. It’s true that wearing one color can elongate your shape and should make you look slimmer – with the right fit.
“Tone on Tone” is a newer, popular way to carry off this idea. I love to put together monochromatic outfits with different fabrications, texures and tones. Why not try a black(or other dark neutral) leather skirt with a black wool sweater, tights and suede boots? It’s a hot look and very “in”. Don’t forget to throw in a shiny accessory like a gold pendant necklace to make the whole outfit pop!
Q. I often hear from new clients that they get stressed out when they look in their closet – they feel they have nothing to wear that’s trendy.
My advice? Put together 5 great outfits at the beginning of the season that they LOVE. Do it from head to toe – tops, bottoms, even jewelry and shoes.
The key is to find inspiration that conveys the image you want to present. I recommend looking through magazines (there are so many for all different style types). Once you have some ideas, use what you have in your closet for staples, and go out and get the rest! Having a cadre of “go to” outfits for various occasions takes the pressure off, and you can always modify with jewelry, a scarf, or whatever whim hits you that day.
If budget is not an issue, great. But you can find lots of fashionable items for less than you might expect too. It may take a little time to source some of the clothes, but getting dressed stress-free later on is so worth it!
One of the questions I get asked most often with clients is “What are the essential components of a basic wardrobe? What am I missing?“
It’s a difficult question to answer without first considering what works best for a clients’ lifestyle. Defining their typical week and how they want to present themselves is the first step. We also think about weekends, careers, special events and weather.
Below are some of the classic components.
- Jeans (dark wash)
- Great fitting black pants
- Black and white tanks/T’s
- Black/nude heels or flats
- Day dress
- Black suit
- Dress up – little black dress (or other neutral color)
- Coat/s
Pick your favorite in each of the categories and then determine what needs to be updated or can be counted as your own personal wardrobe basic.
Another question I often get asked is how best to update your existing “dressy” wardrobe for multiple events without buying a new dress each time.
A good investment is the simple black or dark/neutral dress that you can update with a jacket, trendy shoes or jewelry. This type of dress is not super-recognizable so it’s easier to wear again and again.
Bright colors and prints are great, but are less versatile at fancier events. If you do want to buy more frequently, my take is to buy something less pricey because you’re not going to wear it as often.
Q. I am a petite woman (5’1″) and love scarves, but don’t know how to use them to best flatter my size and my look.
A. Great question. As usual the answer lies in scale and proportion. You do not want a scarf that is too chunky or large as it will overwhelm your petite frame. Look for lightweight scarves rather than heavy, textured fabrics, silks, thin knits, chiffon and summerweight gauzy cottons work well.
Do be sure that they are not too long on your body or they will drag down your look. Some of my clients even shorten their scarves by cutting them down the middle and rejoining the pieces (you can take to a tailor or even re-sew yourself if more skilled)
If you have a long neck I love smaller scarves folded neatly and tied to the side as a pretty accent. If you have a shorter neck, elongate it by making sure the knot of the scarf is positioned further away from the base of your neck. You can tie it loosely or let it hang in a relaxed way.
Finally, I came across a great video that illustrates how to tie scarves many different ways. Please click on the attached link.
http://www.ebaumsworld.com/video/watch/82001304/
Q. As a 47 year old woman, I am often confused about what is appropriate for me to wear! I want to look young and up-to-date, but I don’t want anyone to think I am trying to look like my 16 year-old daughter. What are the rules? – Julia K.
A. I think your individual look, shape, personality and comfort level should guide the way, but I personally like to look like an adult who has fun with style, not a young girl. You don’t want to dress older than your years either. It’s a tricky balance, but here are a few guidelines that may help…
- Do wear trends you like, but pair them with more sophisticated items to make it your own
- Think twice about showing too much skin; more covered up is usually more flattering after a certain age
- Make sure clothes fit well (not too tight…or too short)
- Stay away from overly frilly, girlish details. A little bit goes a long way.
Q. I don’t think I’m a “change-adverse” person, but sometimes I buy a new style and it’s hard for me to try it and move out of my old comfort zone. How do I learn to embrace change?” – Laura B.
A. You really hit on a great issue, and one that comes up more often that you think. Many of my clients specifically hire me to change things up with their current style, and it’s always a fun journey to determine the new look and what works best. But sometimes the hardest part is really getting them to make the transition and embrace the change itself!
Whether it’s a big or small transition, my job is to make it as fun and painless as possible. I always help with “how to” specifics and whatever else you’d need to get started. But getting out of your comfort zone starts with one key to do — no matter how small or drastic the changes — and that is to road test your new look as soon as you can ! Sometimes jumping in head first – just wearing your new outfits, makeup, etc. is the ticket. Things soon feel “normal” just by doing it every day and you’ll get more comfortable sooner with positive feedback from friends, family or co-workers.
But you might be one who benefits from a slower approach, mixing aspects from the old and new styles until you work your way up into the current look. Reviewing your original goals and where you wanted to see yourself style-wise helps too. No matter which approach you choose, you’ll gain the confidence you need to learn to change things up in a positive way – in a way to a more enhanced and up to date YOU!
Q. “I have a fuller bust line, and am unsure what necklaces are best for me. I would appreciate any help!” – Rachel G
A. The safest thing is to not wear anything too tiny. Statement necklaces are a great choice. The key is to choose the right necklace for the neckline you have on.
- For a low, open neckline, such a V-neck, scoop or open shirt collar, make sure to wear a necklace that fits in the empty space. A chunky pendant or multi-strand bead necklace should be positioned so that is hangs no lower than the start of your cleavage. The best spot hits approximately 1-3 inches from the base of your neck. Also, a necklace that has more of a V-shape tends to be more flattering and elongating.
- With a higher neckline (think boat neck, crews and jewel) you need a longer length necklace to avoid catching the top of your garment in an unflattering way. I prefer necklaces that end just above the start of the bust although longer options can also work depending on how they fall on your body.
- Other great options include a “Y” shaped necklace or layering necklaces just below the base of your neck with about 1-1 ½ inches between them. I like to do this with many of the smaller pendants and chains I own to make my own statement!
Q. “I wear black shoes to work almost every day and they wear a lot. I’m due for a new pair. What do you recommend?” Stacy H.
A. Black shoes are a staple in any work wardrobe, but for shoes that are going to go the distance, I recommend the following: a heel you can manage, and nothing with a toe too squared, rounded or exaggeratedly pointy. The best choice is a slightly rounded point.
You’ll also need to consider whether you wear mostly pants or tights with dresses and skirts. Shoe boots look cute with pants, and I particularly like suede material with tights (especially when tights and shoes are the same color). Black kitten heels are back too. They are better than stilettos, but you’ll still need to be careful walking. And why not put yourself in the fashion-forward work set with something different? You can find great-looking, professional shoes in nude, prints or even a bright color.
Q. “I’m always stressed packing before leaving on vacation. I never know what to bring and end up packing too much. Help!” Elyse L.
A. Here are my strategies when packing for a trip:
- Try not to pack last-minute – planning ahead makes a world of difference
- Shop your closet first – it’s fun to buy new things, but your classic standbys should do the major lifting
- Generally plan for five favorite outfits with every accessory aspect included. Keep an eye out for what you can mix, match and layer, and also keep the accessories to one color scheme – so you’ll only need to bring black, or tan, dressy shoes, for example
- Limit shoes! I try to bring three pairs: dressy, walking/flats and flip flops (for warmer-weather trips or the pool)
- Bonus: once you plan your outfits to the last detail, you will not only be ready for your trip but also for any last-minute occasions that may pop up
Q. “Where can I find boots to fit over my calves? So many boots are tight and uncomfortable!”
A. I get this question a lot! The best place to look is online, and make sure to designate “wide shaft boots” in your search. Some of the sites that offer “no pinch fits” include:
- Naturalizer
- Easy Spirit
- Khombo
- Aerosoles
- Munro
- You can also try online catalogs such as Zappos and Nordstrom. Be sure to check for easy shipping and return policies before ordering.
Q. “I’ve gained a few pounds recently. How do I best hide my belly and thicker waist?” N., Wilmette”
A.This issue comes up a lot both personally and professionally, so here are some fashion tricks that might help:
- Emphasize the smallest part of your midriff. Whatever you choose, A-line, full skirt, or dress, be sure to emphasize the narrowest part of your midriff, even if you have to go above your natural waist.
- High-waisted underwear works best to create a smooth line under clothes instead of cutting your midsection in two. Please don’t wear with any lower-rise pants!
- Love your curves. Any top that hugs your bust and then flares slightly down below will make the most of your “assets” and divert attention from your waistline.
- Camisoles with some spandex stretch are great for layering and creating a smooth line. Whatever top you wear over the cami should lay much nicer.
- High rise jeans (but not too high) with a slightly wider leg helps to hide the belly bulge. Denim in a darker color is best.
- And of course, minimizers. They work, but they need to be comfortable. Fine gauge knit shapers such as Spanx are popular for a reason. I love the half and fullslip versions under skirts and dresses.
Q. “I love dresses and there are so many out there. How do I decide?” Rebecca L. Northbrook
A. You can easily show off your best features in a dress, but you’re right – it can be challenging to find the perfect one (or ones!). Here are some things to keep in mind:
- The fit should flatter you. Make sure the fabric skims over challenging areas. Often, simpler styles such as A-line, shirt or sheath work best, as do darker colors.
- How dressy is the event? Determine the formality and decide the length (note: midcalf is generally the dowdiest).
- For summer legs, self tanner (Aveeno makes a good one) or sheer nude hose work well. Fishnets are OK too, depending on the dress.
- One focal point, either a great piece of jewelry OR an elaborate dress is a classy and clean way to go.
- Use shrugs, short cardigans or shawls to keep you warm and covered.
- Trouble spots:
- For a full bust, avoid fabrics that are too stiff. V-necks are usually the most flattering
- If you’re bottom heavy, look for sewn down pleats or A-line skirts that skim the lower half of the body
- Disguise a thicker waist by raising the waistline and stick with a straighter, A-line skirt.
Schedule an appointment
Call Suzanne at 1 847 721 0607
Email Suzanne at suzanne@findfashionhappiness.com