Downfall Trending

We've all seen that trend come around that we just love.... until you try it on. It is important to makre sure that you LOVE an item (especially big ticket items) on you before you make that purchase. This is important for more than one reason - one: if you don't love it, you won't wear it once you get it home and let's face it, when we spend that money we want to get some good wear out of it! Two: confidence is so much more important that wearing the trend that looks good only on model-types. Having confidence and feel comfortable in what you are wearing will give you an edge and knowing that you look good will make you in a better mood, make you more outgoing, and more engaged in your life.

So if you are doubting those flat riding boots with your short legs, do not purchase! Second guessing that jacket with the shoulder pads? Return it now! When shopping think about how much you love the item while you are still in the outfit. Make the decision while you have it on, and take your time.

Falling for Fashion

With fall just around the corner, I want to discuss just a couple reasons that most of us should be excited about this fact… fashionably at least.

1. Structure

Finally, with all the flow and thin fabrics of summer we can get a little structure and starch back into our wardrobes. This is a plus for the majority of women AND men out there. Even a bit of structure to clothes (i.e. jeans, fall jackets, thicker blouses and dress shirts) are easier to play with to create illusions helping to making waists or hips or shoulders look smaller.

2. More Fabric

Fuller skirts, longer sleeves… a better look for the greater part of the population.

3. Leggings and Leg Warmers

Comfortable, yet professional. Playful, yet sexy. Leggings come in such diverse colours, patterns, sheerness that it is hard not to have fun with this accessory.

4. Suede

Personally, my favourite part of fall. The look of suede is rich and warm. And until it snows, not too much risk of ruining it with moisture. My tip: break down and purchase the suede cleaner and protector.

Other fall things to get excited about: fur, animal prints, blazers, jeans, chunky heels, chunkier accessories, funky hat, straighter patterns, etc!

B.

How to be a Haute Mama

Pregnancy brings new life to the world, but can really take its toll on a woman's wardrobe. Here are some fashion tips if you are expecting:

- Avoid geometric patterns once you start showing. Straight lines and prints make round tummies look bigger. Go for large, round patterns such as floral or polka dots.

- For a formal or semi-formal occasion, find a dress with an empire waist. Do not accentuate with a belt. Accessories should emphasize your smallest part, so wear a statement necklace or funky shoes. Remember that it isn't only your stomach getting bigger. You may have to lower that dress hemline you were used to wearing.

- Go for flat-front pants. Pleats will be distorted by the O shape you will become.

- One or two button jacket only. Three or more button draws attention to the stomach and makes it look longer.

- Shiny fabrics are the enemy. They scream out where the body bumps. Avoid! Avoid!

- A draping neckline (cowle) will do wonders for you.

Hope this is helpful for all you mothers-to-be.

B.