One of our readers wrote us recently that she was really depressed that she had nothing to wear to an upcoming Sunday afternoon Christmas tea. Her budget was very limited and she didn’t want to have to buy an entire new outfit.
We suggested that she go out and find a new blouse to spice up what she already had in her closet!
She was thrilled and went out and found a gorgeous new blouse for $49.00 and when she got it home, she realized that it was going to be able to make up to 5 new outfits with it!
Here are a few suggestions that we think would be great additions to your winter wardrobe! The secret is finding a blouse with an interesting neckline that will add some flair!
This type of neckline is always flattering!
Under a suit jacket or on its own, this pretty blouse looks good on all body types! (from Nordstroms)
This animal print is soft and romantic! (from Spiegel)
This off the shoulder is hard to find, but easy to look good in!
We like this ivory blouse that is off the shoulder, because it can be sexy with out showing cleavage! (Nordstroms)
3. Don’t Tuck In
Long and loose over the tummy.
Tucking in is going to put emphasis on your tummy and make it look larger. Leaving out will help elongate your body and make you look thinner. Once again, make sure the top is not boxy, or you will not accomplish this goal! One great way to tuck out is to wear an empire top.
We love this deep V top with detailing at the bust that helps draw attention up to your face and away from your tummy.
That little bit extra hides the tummy.
For a more romantic feel, try a blouse. The top flows over the tummy and hides that bulge while the sash sits at the waist. This blouse has a lovely neckline and the flared sleeves that help to widen the shoulders, balance the body and take the eye away from the tummy.
Look around and you’ll see that everything is coming up…roses and tulips and daffodils, as fabulous florals burst onto centre stage in the fashion world. A pretty floral or botanical print is a simple and surefire way to freshen up your wardrobe this season.
Here’s a look at how to wear one of this Spring’s hottest trends.
Dresses
DON’T
Dainty, tiny, sweet…These are NOT the florals of Spring 2008. So don’t go near this innocent ingénue look!
DO
Instead, think bold, colorful and strong and you’ll be right on track! This spring’s florals have an artistic, painterly and often graphic quality to them. They shout, instead of whisper, and they’re bright and happy, happy, happy.
Floral Skirts
DON’T
Once you find a strong floral that works for you, think about STYLE. It’s equally as important! You may be in love with this bold botanical print, but this long Granny skirt will make you look matronly especially after 40.
DO
Instead, try something shorter and fresher. This green A-line brushstrokes skirt is a classic 50’s style and looks great if you have wider hips and a nice waist you want to show off.
DO
Or, you may want to try this straight style skirt with watercolor dandelion print that flatters most body types. Notice how both are paired with simple cotton blouses. These looks are more subtle and wearable, compared to an all over floral dress which can make some of look and feel like we belong in a garden.
DO
When you want people to notice your bustline or your pretty face, instead of your bottom half, then try wearing a feminine floral top paired with a plain bottom. (Their eyes will go to wherever you put the print.)
This billowy charmeuse top with banded bateau neck, and ¾ raglan sleeve is a beautiful choice and best suited for small to medium busted women.
DO
Off the shoulder is hot this season and this peasant tunic top, accented with velvet, reeks of romanticism. This style can be worn by all sizes.
Shoes
DO
If you just can’t get your head around wearing florals (you prefer a much more tailored, clean look) then experiment by accenting a simple, solid colored outfit with a dash of botanical.
These cute D&G poppy flats with white piping and peep toe would look fab with a solid column of all white, or better yet with a new pair of dark wash trouser jeans and preppy red or white t-shirt.
DO
We fell in love with these irresistible satin with pink and orange rosette slingbacks with wedge heel. Once again, with all this fluff on the toe, you want to keep the rest of the outfit simple. Then just enjoy the compliments flowing in!
Accessories
DO
You don’t need a whole bouquet to make this look work. Even a single bloom, such as this interesting floral cocktail ring updates your look. Quite the conversation piece!
DO
And remember that Floral is a trend that extends to evening as well. This Judith Leiber Australian crystal sparkly floral clutch is a gorgeous compliment to a simple evening gown. More of an art piece than purse, at $3,600 this is one flower that better not wilt!
