Fashion Essentials For A Getaway

Dahlings, it's been a busy couple of weeks and now all I can think about is my upcoming getaway to Vegas. I've never been to Vegas and I'm looking forward to the shopping and the food. And no I will not be catching a Celine Dion performance. So as I begin dreaming about my mini-escape, I'm faced with the ever constant question; what am I going to wear? As is de rigueur this time of year, I'm sure you're planning a little getaway yourself and will need some pointers on what to pack. I've whittled down your must-haves to a few simple categories that will keep you looking assuredly fashionable wherever you land.

Kaftan: The Kaftan is the piece to own this summer. Wear over your swimsuit for instant glam or pair with jeans and some flats for dinner or a day of shopping.

Wedges and Comfy Gladiators: You know I love a wedge. It is the ultimate summer shoe. Comfy and easy, it truly is a must have item. The best part is wedges are available in every height imaginable. I have a  2 inch for getting around during the day and 4 inch wedge for a night out on the town. We know the wedge is fabulous but I'm also loving the  gladiator-inspired sandals that pair well with just about everything.

Easy Accessories: The summer is a good time to pile on the jewelry. I love an arm full of shiny gold bracelets, hoop earrings, and dramatic necklaces. I'm not advocating that you wear these all at once; that could be a bit jarring. But pick a statement piece and keep everything else simple. I might wear a big bold necklace and pair it with a bracelet or a cocktail ring. If my statement piece is a pair of dramatic earrings then I may just do a  bracelet. Over doing it with jewelry is a clear sign that you are confused about what real style is. For extremely warm weather getaways I tend to wear my statement necklaces at night opting to wear earrings during the day to keep from being too hot and overwhelmed.

Flattering Swimsuit: If your mini getaway entails spending time at the beach or a pool, a swimsuit is an absolute must. For my Vegas trip, I'm concerned about being dwarfed by the bevy of fake breasts. But I will wear my little bikini in my unaltered body with pride. When it comes to swimsuits, it's a good idea to have two-three. You need one for when you're feeling fearless and fierce aka a sexy little number and one for those days you may have had a little bit too much of everything and you need some camouflage action.  Of course you should take into consideration what you will be doing. Personally, I tend to be very inactive once I'm in a swimsuit but if you plan on getting into some sport related activity, choose accordingly.  I'm also loving this season the return of the one piece after years of itsy-bitsy bikinis. I think we often think the one piece may make one look older but I think the right cut and style can evoke glamour and major sex appeal.

The Maxi Dress: What else can I say about the Maxi dress. I've worn one during my last three warm weather vacations. Not only is it a perfect day piece to wear but I also love it as a go-to evening look. For evening choose a more sophisticated fabric like chiffon,  Jersey, satin or silk. Cotton can feel too casual.

Serious Shades: This is a no-brainer but shades really do make the difference for your look and of course they are so practical. I love classic oversize framed sunnies. None of the other theatrics for me.

Summer Tote Bag: Find yourself a fashionable and functional tote bag to hold your travel essentials from the airport to the beach. And these days you can get them in a variety of sizes and prices. I love a classic straw tote bag for day and in a multicolored fabric for the beach and more casual settings.

The Color White: Is there anything that signifies summer more than a crisp white dress, t-shirt or accessory? Well I don't think so. White is one of those colors that looks good on just about everyone and it's so refreshing. BUT it is hard to wear if you tend to be a slob like me. I have a white sundress that I choose to wear only when I know I will be clear of little children, grass and ribs...and that's pretty often. The perfect summer look in my opinion is a classic white tank and white straight leg jeans with simple gold hoop earrings.

Easy Sundress: I love cute breezy dresses that you can easily dress up by adding a pair of sandals. A punch of color adds that much more fun to the look. On the flip side, while sundresses are essential for day wear, a sexy dress is perfect for a place like Vegas to strut your stuff. But  do  keep it sophisticated. You don't want to be girl exposing her crotch and cleavage all night or maybe you do and this blog may not be for you...

A Great Pair of Jeans: When on vacation I always pack at least two pair of jeans; a casual pair for getting around during the day and sexy pair for a night time adventures.

Well, those are my essential picks for a fashionable get-away wardrobe. Of course don't forget to pack plenty of tank tops, a pair of shorts and a hat to ward off the sun.

 I'm going to pack light for my trip to Vegas making sure to leave room for new purchases since I hear there's some serious shopping to be done.

Viva Las Vegas and Cheers to Mini Getaways!

Spring/Summer Classic: The Maxi

Dahlings, keeping up with the latest trends can be exhausting. Lately I've been really conscious of adding pieces to my wardrobe that will last longer than a marriage to Elizabeth Taylor to save money but also to save time, which is something we all need more of. If you're looking to do the same thing, this whole week I'm sharing the top 20 spring/summer classics that I think every woman needs in her closet to be fabulously smashing all the time.

PIECE #1: The Maxi dress

Maxi dresses have it all: casually chic, sexy and comfortable, this is a great easy piece to wear during the long summer months. But this dress can be challenging and intimidating for some but the secret to finding the right Maxi for you lies in the cut. Tall, willowy gals can get away with any style, but if you're under under 5’4", you need to give this style some serious thought.

Maxi Dresses for the Shorties ( that includes me). Typically long dresses are not the best choice for shorties because you risk looking like a tent and even shorter. But if you opt for a dress that fits well and clings to your figure, ideally you will look fantastic. Dresses which emphasize the waist are great options as well. Keep things fitted up top and avoid an overly voluminous skirt. In terms of length, make sure the dress hits your ankles and does not drag on the floor. To create the illusion of a longer silhouette choose a dress with a V-neck. And of course, don’t forget about heels.  If you are slim, try flower prints and bright colors. For added drama--and we love drama, set-off your Maxi with long, chunky jewelry and this season's over sized shades and bags. Go even further and plop a fedora or wide brim hat on your head. With your shades no one can touch you!

Maxi Dresses for Voluptuous Babes. The Maxi's full-length is a perfect camouflage to cover thick thighs and wide hips. But big-busted women beware;you may find the maxi dress harder to pull-off.

Try a Maxi with wide straps because thin ones will make your breast look fuller.  And definitely avoid the elasticated strapless look. You want to choose a V-neck style that draws attention away from the bust and to your face. If you want a maxi dress lathered with print, pick out large graphic prints, or prints with either exotic or abstract patterns to make the dress look less curtain and more glam! Stay away from too wide and baggy Maxis. You don't want to look preggers and if you happen to be preggers, the Maxi is the perfect dress for your growing physique.

Style Tips:

1. Sandals, wedges in particular or open-toe shoes look the best with the Maxi. Skip the pumps, please!

2. Create a waist by adding a belt to your Maxi. Since Maxis are usually loose adding a belt will change your look significantly.

3. A casual Maxi looks fantastic with big totes and big sunglasses. We're going for the I just threw this thing on and just happen to look fabulous look. So don't over think it.

4. Your Maxi is dual purpose. Wear out to dinner with a simple clutch and heels and wear during the day with flats or wedges for a more casual look. 

5. A form-fitting denim or leather ( faux) jacket or a long cardigan will finish off your Maxi look fabulously.

6. Going somewhere? Maxis are a must-have  look for traveling and the beach filled days of summer.

7. The long flowing Maxi looks great in a burst of floral patterns, artistic geometric, solid white cotton or black and white graphics. I'm really loving the simplicity of a plain black Maxi with major accessories when prints seem overwhelming.
8. If you're small busted, a strapless or halter top Maxi is perfect for you.

Spring and Summer style is all about easy dressing. And nothing says easy like the Maxi. Follow the steps above and your sure to look too good for words in your Maxi. I've got my eye on this number. After all, I do have a birthday coming up.

Fall Looks That Will Take You Into Spring

Dahlings, the weather has been so unbearable lately. And it seems that we've had enough cold, sunless rainy days. My 16-year old niece recently posted on her Facebook status that she forgot what the sun feels like. Well, so do I. And worst off, I've lost interest in my winter clothing, which means it's time for a change in season. Already the internet has been buzzing with the top trends for Spring and you might have already seen the first signs of Spring in the stores. But I'm glad to see that some trends from last season are staying put.

One trend that I'm thrilled to see carry over into the next season is the boyfriend blazer. This wardrobe staple is a major key layering piece that can take you through all seasons. Push up the sleeves and pair it with everything from skinny pants to skirts and dresses. If you've read my very first post, you know I love me blazer.

 The  necklace continues to make a statement for Spring. And thankfully, jewelry returns as an important accessory for Spring. More importantly it's the cheapest, easiest way to update your look.

The military influence was big this Fall and if you were among the many that succumbed to purchasing a cute military jacket, you can keep wearing it throughout the Spring. I still have the military jacket I brought five years ago. But it's more reminiscent of Janet Jackson's Rhythm Nation and I love it. Word on the street is that this Spring, the military jacket might replace the motorcycle jacket chicks have been rocking all last season. I'm not sure about that; two different looks entirely. For a new twist try the military anorak, a more relaxed, less structured look.

 Garden glamour aka floral motifs and patterns are another look that will carry over for Spring. I really love this look. It's demure, sophisticated and statement making all at once. This Spring, designers are big on blooms of all different sizes, from simple, cherry-blossom details to oversized, eye-catching rosettes. Many of the dresses would not be out of place at a '50s garden party. Love.

Stripes were everywhere last Fall. And this Spring the classic stripes are back big time. Blue and white seem to be a new combo folks are raving about but you can pull off the Breton-inspired trend with any color combo. I have a red /white combo and just recently realized that I own two gray/black combos. Not sure why that happened. I know there's a lot talk about  horizontal stripes widening the waistline but there's just something about stripes that I love; simple and no fuss but visually stimulating.  It's a classic look worth having in your clothing rotation.

More to come on my favorite looks for Spring.

A Great Idea: Rent The Runway

Dahlings, have you ever purchased a very expensive dress for a formal event and only end up wearing it once? I've done that on multiple occasions and I keep looking for ways to wear the dresses again but often times I never get an opportunity to because the dress was very unique to that event or it no longer feels right. Well a friend of mine sent me a link to Rent the Runway a site that makes "high-end fashions much more accessible and almost as easy as renting a movie from Netflix."

 Essentially you  go to renttherunway.com to sign-up (it’s free) and there you’ll gain exclusive access to looks from designers like Diane Von Furstenberg, Robert Rodriguez and Proenza Schouler for approximately 10 percent of the retail price with same-day shipping for New Yorkers or next-day everywhere else.

Rentals range between $50 to $200 for a four-night loan. And to address the fit issue the company will send you a second size for free as well as a handy “fit kit” filled with helpful tools like double-stick tape and deodorant remover. Rent the Runway seems like a good solution for the girl who loves designer duds but doesn't have the cash flow but  if you have a difficult body size it may prove to be a burden. For a special occasion you really want the dress to fit properly and that usually entails trying on multiple dresses in varying sizes. But when ordering they do have a stylist on hand to help you choose the right size for your body shape so it might be worth a try for an upcoming event. Who knows, I might give it go one of these days just for fun. What do you think? Would you use this service?

Really Loving: Leggings an Alternative to Tights

I really resisted the legging trend when it resurfaced from the 80s a couple years ago. I always thought they were for skinny teen age girls and when I saw anyone older wearing them I shuddered. I didn't think they were for me until recently. I finally relented and reluctantly purchased a pair of black leggings from H&M for my 10 hour flight to Amsterdam. And surprisingly, I loved, loved them. I paired the leggings with a long stretchy cotton tee, then added a thin oversized stripped V-neck sweater, and finally a long sweater coat. I tend to wear them on the weekends but recently wore them to work with a flowy, flowery dress and long cardigan and I stayed quite toasty. If you're like me and have turned your nose at leggings, I think you should reconsider. They are a great alternative to tights and are surprisingly flattering--when worn the right way that is.

The Look:
The key to wearing leggings the right way is to achieve the big-over-small silhouette. So when you choose a shirt to pair with your leggings, look for a roomy one. Do not expose the bottom or the gap between the mid-thigh.  Your bum shouldn't be hanging out! Choose a longer-length top which hits the mid-thigh. This elongates the torso and gives proportion.

Fabric: You should choose a good quality fabric which will keep its shape (one with more than 4% lycra). Cheap leggings have a tendency to bubble and go out of shape. Choose a thicker fabric to slim and add shape and support.

Color: Black or dark gray colors are best to achieve a slimming effect that also means choosing full length leggings, not the ankle or mid calf styles.

Styling Tips:  The thing that's great about leggings is that you can wear them just as you would wear your tights. For instance, a classic dress can be given an on-trend, edgy look by popping a pair of leggings underneath rather than plain tights. I recemmend two ways to wear dresses over leggings: (1) a close fitting dress (such as a knit dress),  or (2) a billowy bohemian style casual dress. What ever style you choose, make sure that the dress falls at or above the knee for the most flattering silhouette. But please note, leggings are not an alternative to pants.

And don't forget the shoes Dahlings. Look for three styles: flats, boots, and pumps. Other types of shoes tend not to work as well as these three styles. My personal favorite are booties or knee high boots.


Where To Buy: This trend can be found anywhere. So just buy one already.

A Word About Jeggings: As if leggings weren't enough, "Jeggings"-- a cross between leggings and jeans-- has fashion fanatics flocking to the stores in droves. I'm not falling for this one.

Check out this video for more tips on how to wear leggings, no matter what your body type.


Watch CBS News Videos Online

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.