Party Frocks For Every Body

Dahlings! So how many parties are you attending this holiday season? Too many invitations making the choice difficult? Okay,well maybe your mail/email box is not over flowing with RSVP requests yet. But I'm sure you'll get one last minute party invitation and when that happens thanks to this post, you'll have the perfect party dress. Or maybe you're throwing your own bash...even more fabulous.

This holiday season there's a special focus on bright shades, sexy one-shoulders, gorgeous draping, vibrant colors, and of course sequins, metallics and luxe take center stage.

Depending on your body type, finding the right party frock can be a challenge. For each body shape that exists or that I could think of, I've selected a go to dress to help you begin your shopping or to inspire you. Read on Dahlings!

Curvalicious
I fall into this category and when I shop for party dresses I look for a silhouette that provides definition around the waist and a fantastic neckline to draw the eye up. If you carry most of your weight in the lower half of your body, you should look for a dress that flares at the hem. For the more hippy girls try a shape like this with a skirt that doesn’t cling anywhere. Here's what I recommed for the  hourglass body shape.

Petite Mamas
If you're on the short side ( that is me also) you want to strive for a look that elongates your silhouette. The best way to do this is by embracing shorter dresses and pairing them with sheerer hose or opaque tights (making sure that the shoes match.) It's also a good idea to flash a little skin with a low neckline or strapless dress or the one shoulder option to draw the eye upward. Go glam with metallic minis in high-shine finishes or sequins. These suggestions also work for gals with boyish bods; meaning you want more more curves and more body.

Busty Babes
Shopping for party dresses can be a challenge for girls with a lot to work with on top. Your best bet is to look for a tailored dress that provides a clear silhouette. That means no shapeless dresses or tunics. You need a dress with strong lines and seams with a snug silhouette that cinches at the waist. It's also best to stay with one color from head to toe for a longer leaner look. And you must, absolutely look for a dress with major support on top.

Full-Figured Beauties
Finding the right look for full figured gals can be challenging due to the limited fashionable options offered in the stores. The best options for a party frock is a simple silhoutte coupled with major accessories to create drama.Skip any additions that will add bulk like, ruffles etc. Focus on finding a dress with a fantastic neckline, that skims the body ( not skin tight) in a deep color. And it's okay to show some skin on top to draw the eye to the face.

Long Lean and Leggy
You're the type of gal that can get away with a lot and I'm certain you are not well liked because of this. You, dahling, can experiment with sequins or a bold print but make sure it's in a sleek fabric to avoid looking like a circus tent. Don't forget to show off your long legs but do be careful about going too short. But the world is yours when it comes to finding the perfect party dress.

And Remember:  Accessorize, Accessorize!
The Holidays is the perfect time to bring the drama when it comes to accessorizes. Strapless dresses usually warrant a pair of earrings. But if your dress is major on the details and color, please keep the jewelry to a minimum. And it's rarely ever okay to wear matching earrings, necklace and a bracelet. If you do dramatic earrings, skip the necklace. If you must wear another piece of jewelry, go for a cocktail ring or bracelet. And don't forget your clutch, a must have to complete your look.

Where to shop: When shopping for dresses you can always hit up the major department stores for the large selections avialable. But I tend to like shopping at boutique stores where the service can be a little more personal and you'll find more selective, unique choices. Places like Ambiance, McMullen's in Oakland are great options.But there are tons of great boutiques both in San Francisco and the East Bay. Just be sure to give yourself at least 2-3 weeks to find the perfect look. Never shop the day of an event, I've been there and sometimes I'm lucky and find the perfect look but the anixiety is just not worth it!

And because I know not all of us like the idea of squeezing into a dress, here's a great video from the Gals at Lucky featuring alternatives to a party dress if that's not your thing or if you want to swtich it up.
Check it.



The Final Word: Dahlings,when shopping for a party frock, just make sure the dress has a great neckline; a V-neck flatters everyone. And if you're not shaped like a model, tall and leggy, stick to silhouettes that emphasize your waist and that skim the body. You never want to look like you are wearing a tent; very few people can carry that look. But most importantly, no matter what you choose to rock for that special soiree, rock it with confidence. That looks good on everybody.

About Face: Ten Tips For Holiday Beauty

Dahlings, can you believe that the Holidays are here! I mean where does the time go? I'm starting a series of posts to help you look your flyest this season because style can go wrong, very wrong around the holidays. People tend to either do too much or too little. And I want you to achieve a happy medium. I'm starting the holiday style series off with some makeup tips from my good friend Tricia Turner, a fantastic make-up artist. Tricia began her career in 2000 freelancing as a makeup artist for major cosmetic lines such as M.A.C., Laura Mercier, Nars, and Bobbi Brown. She has created make up looks for fashion photography, runway, print, entertainment, music video, and film. Since she's a girl in the know, I thought it would be great for her to share her ten tips for holiday beauty. So here goes.

Skin: Beautiful holiday makeup starts with great skin. No amount of foundation or blush will look good if applied to skin that's not healthy.

1. Chilly winter air and cold temperatures rob skin of its natural moisture so you'll want to replenish it with a moisturizer that's appropriate for your skin type. Try: Laura Mercier Moisturizer Cream with spf 15.

Note from Vo: People tend to ask me about the products I use on my face to achieve what they think is flawless skin.  First off, I don't wake up in the morning with flawless skin, hello! I have to finisse it a little bit. Secondly, I owe a lot to my mother's good genes. She has perfect skin and unlike me she wears no make-up, except for her bold red lipstick. Thirdly, I do take some preventive measures. For instance,  I don't smoke (  nothing ages your skin like smoking) and I've been wearing sunscreen every day since I was  in my early 20's despite my dark skin. As you know, the sun is the number one culprit in aging your skin. Finally, I don't drink in excess. I know it's hard to believe considering the fact that I was named "Most Likely To Organize Happy Hour" at work. I do enjoy an adult beverage on oaccasion but  I rarely ever over indulge, which can badly dehydrate the skin. And I never go to sleep with  makeup on my face. I know it sounds obvious but you'd be surprise how many people don't remove their make up at night before bed. Gross! But most imprtantly, at night I slather on some anti-wrinkle cream. I'm not going to say the brand I use because I think any brand will do the trick just pick one that is good for your skin type and that fits your budget. I have dry skin so my cream is pretty heavy on the moisturizing and  I love to slather it on my face at night. Oh and don't forget to apply to your neck, it needs some TLC too.

 Healthy skin is part genetic but there is a small part you can play in maintaining good skin. And as Tricia says above, no amount of make-up can give you that.

2. Winter weather can cause flaking of the top layers of the skin so using an exfoliant is key to sloughing away those dead cells that can make foundation look cakey. Try: Philosophy's "The Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash.

3. Protect your lips from winter's chill by using a balm nightly before bed to combat chapping. Try: M.A.C. Lip Conditioner Tube.

Note from Vo: I get dry lips a lot during the winter, which I know many of you do too. It makes it impossible to keep your lipstick or  gloss from staying on or looking good. I moisturize my lips all day and before bed I slap on some more lip balm, using a soft rag or soft tooth brush I gently slough away any  dead skin. Then I slap on some more lip balm and go to bed.  In the morning I have nice supple lips.

Eyes: The holidays are the perfect time to add a little sparkle to your makeup. It's all in the way you wear it and perfect for all your special events.

4. Apply shimmer to the lids using a gold or silver eye shadow. Applied sparingly it can add a festive touch to your eye makeup. Finish the look by adding a coat of black mascara. Try: M.A.C. Electra and Amber Lights Eyeshadow.

5. Eyeliner is a wonderful and easy way to add a pop of holiday color. Experiment with shades of plum, dark green, and copper. Try: M.A.C. Powerpoint Eye Pencil in Bountiful Brown, Forever Green, and Permaplum.

Cheeks: Add a pop of color to cheeks by using a more vibrant shade of blush. Search for shades that brighten your skin while enhancing or "faking" your cheekbones.

6. Cream blush is just the thing for cheeks exposed to dry winter air. Apply with fingers or a brush and blend upward into the cheek bone. Try: Clinique Blushwear Creamstick.

7. Deeper pinks and plums add a pretty flush to cheeks. The shades may seem shocking or too dark at first glance but the colors are sheer and go on naturally. Try: Makeup Forever Powder Blush in Dark Raspberry and Candy Pink.

Note: Darker skin girls sometimes think they can't wear blush. But I love it! And blush can work wonders honey. If you're not big on make up, sometimes just adding a little blush will help to brighten up your look and make you look more awake and of course, youthful. I wear this from M.A.C. it has a little shimmer to help define the cheek bones.

Lips: Cooler colors with a bit of depth give wearable drama to lips. Experiment with glosses, creams and matte textures.

8. Glosses with frost or sparkle are fabulous for holiday parties and special events. Try: Smashbox's  Wish For The Perfect Pout Set, a limited edition set of 6 lip glosses made just for the holidays.

9. Matte lipsticks give a velvety and sumptuous finish to lips. Red is both classic and festive. Find the right shade for you by paying a visit to your local makeup counter.And don't be afraid to try them on. Try: M.A.C. Matte Lipstick in Chili, Russian Red, or Lady Danger. But do keep the rest of your makeup light if you choose to go this route. The focus should be on your lips.

Yet another note from Vo: I love dramatic lips. If you see me on the regular you know this for sure. Red  lips are very of the moment, but I've been stuck on M.A.C's Rebel. It's a vivid pinkish purple and feels a little bit more fun, edgy and unexpected. It's definetly for the gal who likes a little drama.

10. Have fun! Don't be afraid to experiment and use color. The holidays are a joyful time and adding a bit of color to your makeup is a great way to celebrate the season.

The Final Word: Dahlings, the holidays should be fun sexy times. This is your chance to try a new shade of eyeshadow or lipstick! Do the unexpected this year and turn heads. Go a head, I promise you won't regret it.

Coveting: Fall Must Have #4, The Sweater Dress

Dahlings, this time of year is so hard for me because there are so many delightful goodies to be had. But I must be strategic about my purchases since last time I checked I was still working for a non-profit. Geesh. So here I am coveting so many fab pieces to create the perfect Fall/Winter wardrobe. Lately I've been really desiring a sweater dress. I have a grey turtleneck one that I got from Macy's last year but it's bit form fitting and let's just say, it's a little too much to wear to the office since I got a little junk in my trunk, if you catch my drift. But I digress. I want a more relaxed fit sweater dress that I can wear on the weekends with a pair of flat boots or dress up with opaque tights and either a pair of booties or pumps. Honestly, the sweater dress is a must-have cold weather staple, and if you haven’t noticed, they are popping up all over the place at varying price points. Not only are they comfortable but they come in many different fabrics and in a variety of styles. It can be worn so many different ways; with a funky scarf and ballet flats for an easy weekend look, as a tunic - the shorter lengths look amazing with skinny jeans or over leggings for dinner or with a belt to change the silhouette completely to accent your waist. I noticed most of the sweater dresses in the stores tend to come in muted neutral colors, which may not complement everyone's skin color. I think you can't go wrong with a creamy color. I wouldn't suggest gray for everyone,which is a really big color this season. But don't be shy, go for a bright color if you want and pair it with gray or brown opaque tights or leggings making sure to match the color of your shoes to the leg wear to tone it down. I'm dying for a purple one myself. I should also caution that you  need a clean silhouette underneath your sweater dress. Wear a nice smoothing camisole or shapewear underneath to  flatten any potential bulges. Where to buy? Every where Dalhings! The stores are over flowing with sweater dresses! You can't escape it. Here are few online spots for inspiration or purchases, if you're so inclined: Tulle, Old Navy, Nordy's, try Anne Taylor Loft 's version for a more dressier look.

The Final Word: The sweater dress is about as close as you can get to wearing your PJ's to work. But no one will whisper behind your back about it. Need I say more?

Girls Night Out This Week: Shop, Sample and Score!

Hello Dahlings, Getting ready to do your holiday shopping? Or have a burning desire to appease that burning urge to shop? I know all about it. Well, dahlings gather all your best girlfriends this Wednesday or Thursday and head over to the Shecky's Girls Night Out between 5pm-10pm at the Fort Mason Center, Herbst Pavilion in San Francisco. Here's why you should go: It's evening of free delicious cocktails, fabulous fashion, jewelry and accessories at deep discounts from the best indie designers and boutiques. You can also indulge in onsite beauty treatments and when it's all done, you get to take home a goodie bag overflowing with fabulousness. The event is free when you become a Shecky's insider. Final Word: dahlings, gather your girls, leave your man behind and take a night out for yourself. You deserve it!



Shecky's Girls Night Out from Shecky's on Vimeo.

Spotted: Cute Flat Boots For Gals On A Budget

Dahlings, it was sort of ho-hum day at the office today. Just getting through the day sort of in a daze. But I got a sudden fashion injection when I noticed two of my office mates sporting to die for flat boots. As you all know by now, boots are a must-have for stylish girls everywhere this Fall. I especially like their choices because these boots are made for walking and each wore them in very unique ways that complemented their personal style. Roseli, pictured here with the brown leather boots, used hers to maintain her vintage-inspired style. And Erica, in the suede taupe boots, used hers to spunk up a very classic wrap dress. Notice the choice of color; both girls opted to stay away from the usual choice of black and instead went for neutural colors that lend a softer touch to their overall looks. And most importantly both girls get props for not dropping a lot on their cute purchases. Erica got her western inspired boots at Bakers for under $60! Roseli, our vintage lover, got her boots at Thrift Town in San Leandro for $20 ( she said, "they are vintage but what we call 'deadstock', or never worn)." What steals! Check out Nordtrom's half yearly sale for some other options.

Final Word: Boots are a must-have for the Fall/Winter season. Take inspiration from these gals and get yours on the less expensive side.

What Stylish Girls Know

Dahlings, have you ever noticed the air of mystery (and envy) surrounding stylish girls? You know that girl right? We all know one. She looks great every day; everything is always in place, her shoes, her bag, her make-up and her hair, smashing ! And You wonder how does she do it??

Now for some of us style is innate, for the rest of us, we have to work a little bit harder. But style is achievable for everybody. You too can be stylish and you probably already are if you're reading this blog.

Here's what I've observed about Style mavens ( note that I am not talking about so-called Fashionistas, who are fashion crazed and not necessarily focused on long term impact or style).

Stylish girls have developed a signature style that speaks to who they are, what their interest are. But consciously or unconsciously they know that they give pleasure and joy to those who look and interact with them.

Stylish girls love themselves and are confident. They are not only dressing to make themselves feel better but because they love themselves and that is expressed through the pleasure they take in dressing.

Stylish girls are not chasing trends. They may take a cue from a trend and or adopt it to add a jolt to their existing wardrobe but they are not seduced by a piece of clothing simply because it's of the moment. It must speak to them and their personal style directly.

Stylish girls think about everything they wear. They don't obsess about how they look but  manage to look fabulous in every aspect of their lives, wearing the appropriate clothing for the right environment.

Stylish girls don't do too much! They never walk out of the house wearing everything they own all at once. Stylish girls discriminate Dahlings.

Stylish girls have taste. Taste is eclectic, individual and well, tasteful. There is a difference between vulgarity and sexuality.

Stylish girls have a uniform. They have an outfit or favorite clothing items to grab in a pinch. (My uniform is a blazer with jeans or a black dress).

Stylish girls are not label snobs. They understand when quality matters but know when to dip down in the bargain bin or stop by the bargain basement! They are not in debt because of what's in their closet. They make careful shopping decisions.

Stylish girls are not limited by the amount of or lack of money they have to spend on clothes. They get creative looking for bargains, deals and convince friends to "borrow" an item here and there to maintain.

Stylish girls understand the power of accessories to elevate an outfit and to express themselves.

Stylish girls understand sometimes to be aware is more important than what you wear.

Final word: Fashion unites us, but style sets us apart. Anyone can wear fashionable clothes but can you wear clothes in a way that speaks to who you are and what makes you unique? Style does not happen by accident Dahlings. You have to put the work in upfront to decide what your desired look is and then work within those parameters and continue adjusting it as you move through life. While style is innate for some, it can be learned and it's okay to take inspiration from others to create, define and or enhance your style. But remember always DO YOU!

What style rule do you live by?

Fall Fashion Must-have # 3: The Classic Winter Coat

It's November Dahlings, can you believe it! Aside from it being Turkey month and the official start of the holiday season, did you know November is a great time to buy a winter coat? Bet ya didn't know that. Well the absolute best time  is off season during the Summer and Spring months. But in Fall, not winter, the stores are still offering great deals. With my upcoming trip to Amsterdam in three weeks, now is the perfect time for me to start thinking of a shopping excursion to find a new winter coat that is both high on style yet warm enough to help me brave the dreary weather.

And so the Fall Fashion must have list continues with the very essential winter coat. The right coat has to make a strong first and last impression.  Besides being practical, the right coat can instantly boost your style quotient pulling your look together in snap. If you're thinking about buying a coat in the near future keep these tips in mind.

The Cut

 Essentially we want to stay away from the frumpy boxy look. The most classic style ever is the universal single breasted A-line shape, flaring out slightly from under the arms to the hem. It can either be single or double breasted and works best for girls with fuller bottoms.

The belted coat is another great look ( sort of resembles a trench coat but in a heavier wool). This style emphasizes your waist and works well for girls with fuller busts and those with  curvy hour glass figures.

Another version of the belted coat is the robe other wise known as the wrap coat, which works well for fuller curvier girls. The open collar on this coat will draw attention to your neckline. A single button and tie will accent your curves pefectly.The double breasted pea coat is another classic but better suited for girls who aren't too busty or have longer boyish bodies.

My favorite is the military style ( very in this season) for it's charm, impact and more structured feel. The trick with this coat is to make sure that there aren't too many buttons and other military details to ensure it's longevity and keep it from looking too trendy.

When it comes to length, knee length is always in style and works well with just about everything in your closet. And be sure to select durable fabrics like cashmere- and alpaca-wool blends, or newer high quality synthetic blend fabrics.

The Fit

What's most important when buying a coat is the fit. Don't forget to do the reach and lift test. Reach for something or pick your bag and throw it over your shoulder to test for ease and tightness of the shoulders and back. Make sure the shoulder line meets the edge of your shoulders. If the shoulder doesn't reach the edge then go for a bigger size, if the shoulder goes pass the edge, you need a smaller size. And don't forget the sleeves; the length should clear the top of your hand.

Side note: Sometimes you may come across the perfect coat but just need to customize it a little bit. I once tried on a camel wool coat at J.Crew that fit me perfectly in the shoulders but was bit too roomy for my frame. I purchased it  because it was a steal and took it to my tailor. She nipped in the waist and took up the sleeves and voila! Perfect. That purchase was over 5 years ago and and I still wear the coat every winter. I wouldn't recommend this to everybody but it's always an option for those of us lucky enough to have a great tailor nearby.

If you are petite avoid buying a long or bulky winter coat since it can easily overwhelm your body. Do hit up the petite section for a coat that is at most 3/4 length and that fits you very well to avoid overhelming your frame. Aside from finding the right style and fit, ultimately a coat should keep you warm. Go figure! Buy the coat a size bigger to account for colder days when you will have a cardigan or sweater on underneath.

Color
Stick to neutral colors like black, cream, or camel. Grey is a big color this season but doesn't necessarily flatter every body. Once you have your classic winter coat then you can venture into the bold colors and patterns.

Where to buy

A great coat is easy to find at a the price that you can afford. But do buy the best you can afford- you get what you pay for and the better the quality the longer it will last. You can afford to scrimp with more fashionable styles that will go off-trend in a minute. Some of my favorite places to shop for coats include Banana Republic, J.Crew, Macy's, Gap, Zara Nordstrom's, and Nordstrom's Rack, and  Loehmans for deep discounts.

Final word: The trick to buying a coat that will last year for years is to look for a classic shape with tailoring features like a nipped waist, vertical seams or panels that create a slimming effect. I'm off to search for the perfect coat, dahlings! Stay tuned!