Fall Uniform: The Lightweight Jacket

It’s an odd time of year; we know Summer has left the building, but it’s not time to break out the Parkas yet. For us commuters we can’t freeze our you-know-whats off on the bus stop, and I am not a fan of sweating on a packed train car. So what am I supposed to wear? Enter: The Lightweight Jacket.

Thanks, Puma!

It's sleek, easy to pack away if the temperature spikes, and in most cases this thing is water repellent. However, the Lightweight Jacket is a cautionary tale because: its name gives it away! This piece light, and more of a Fashion statement. I only scream say this because you cannot wear a tank top or a mini skirt and expect a warm, cozy feeling. Dress appropriately folks!

As always, here are my tips on styling the Jacket:

• Ignore the color and go with your gut. I generally use this rule for shopping overall, but since this piece of Outerwear isn't designed to go with your outfits, avoid buying something that accommodates your entire wardrobe. It will be frustrating to do so, and you might miss out on a great find.
• Drawstrings and Belts are key! Unfortunately, all Outerwear adds unnecessary bulk but that doesn't mean you have to loose your shape. You can pick Outerwear with drawstrings or a belt to battle the budge, or you can add one from your own closet! Like this:

• My favorite length of Outerwear is above or below the hip. Like I said, the jacket adds the wrong kind of poof, and it's easy to get lost in a large piece of Nylon or other Lightweight fabrics. Jackets that hit above the hipbone highlight your hips, and below accentuates the natural curve from your waistline down. Either way you go, these lengths are pluses for us Curvy girls. ;)

Last but not least, the transition from this season to Winter is a short one and your coats shouldn't break the bank. Below are my picks for Lightweight Jackets all under $100. Let me know what you think & check out a new feature on the blog, "Curvy News":

Merona® Quilted Jacket

Worthington® Single-Breasted Mod Coat 

Belted Zip Cape Coat

a.n.a® Quilted Faux Leather Jacket

ELLE™ Faux-Leather Jacket

In Other Curvy News...

• "We're surrounded by absolutely unrealistic ideas of beauty because girls in photos are, well, not real. They're the result of a hairstylist, a makeup artist, a manicurist, a personal stylist, a tailor, good lighting, correct angles....And to get that one photo that makes the cut, sometimes a thousand or more need to be taken. So, look at pictures of celebrities for artistic inspiration ... but don't think for a second that you should look like them. Because nobody does, not even them." Love who you are!

                        *Lauren Conrad from her new book 'Beauty' Via She's In Color

• Lady Gaga joins the Body Revolution! The pop superstar says: "My boyfriend prefers me curvier. When I eat I am healthy and not so worried about my looks, I'm happy. Happier than I've ever been." She was born this way! Via Daily Mail & @AlexandaMariaE
  
  
  

Thanks for visiting :)

Until next time, 

-TLW

You're Beautiful -- It's True!

Just thought you should know. ;)

Happy Thursday!

-TLW

I Support All Things Curvy!

The headline says it all if you didn't get that message from my blog before ;)


Today I stumbled upon the Kardashian's Sears new campaign for the Kardashian Kollection, which this time is all about you. 


Kourtney, Khloe, and The Future Mrs. West are rolling out with a plus size Denim extension of their brand at Sears. To commemorate the launch they are asking you to strut your stuff and be the face of the campaign to be featured in the full line Ads (which is actually pretty cool).


Details here: 

The winner will receive:

• Round trip coach air transportation for one (1) to Los Angeles
• One (1) night lodging in LA
• A professional photo shoot for Kardashian Kurves
• A photograph from the shoot will appear in an advertisement for the Kardashian Kurves denim line

To enter click the really hard to find big blue link at the bottom of the page and let me know if you win! I would love to see my Curvy nation represented in a stylish campaign, exclusively at Sears. ;)

-TLW

Photo Credit: Celebuzz.com

Skinny Girls Vs Curvy Girls: Is This Really A Fight?

I recently discovered an article written by Sabrina Crockett : Why Is It Suddenly Cool To Hate On Skinny Girls? and let me just say, it is not.

It isn't and never will be.

The message I will continue to reiterate on The Last Word, is that this is a forum to celebrate Curvy women like myself and all my readers. The beauty in this also, is that there isn't room to hate. By celebrating our Curves and the things that individualize us and no longer place all Curvy women in a category with negative connotations, is not the opportunity to put down those who do not identify with us. I believe Ms. Crockett agrees. In her article she states:

..and I could not support her belief more. Plainly speaking, this isn't a "the oppressed becomes the oppressor" situation. Being Curvy in society is about a trend in loving yourself more and appreciating the value within, but at it's core it is indeed a trend. It is our responsibility to love ourselves, not society's, and if they turn on the drop of the dime not only do we look foolish by ridiculing others, but we are also continuing to be disrespectful to our fellow Woman. We're all Women here!

Nope!

Sabrina even goes on to talk about this meme, that I am sure a few of us have favortited on Twitter or repinned on Pinterest:

And in the context of this article, I discovered how unfortunate this message is. Sabrina goes on to talk about the weight battle some Skinny girls may face in devotion to their own perfect body image, and the celebration of curves could hinder their own self appreciation. Curvy women, I know this is not what we are about.

I went on a rant say all this to say I will continue to celebrate my Curves every chance I get, but I will not do it at the expense of someone else's well being. And neither should you! I think Sabrina agrees with me because:

-The Last Word

Photo Credit: Why Is It Suddenly Cool To Hate On Skinny Girls? 

These Collars Ain't No Choke

So remember when I did this post?

The Last Word

And then I made these?

Assta Designs

Assata Designs

Well check out July's issue of InStyle Magazine:

InStyle Magazine July 2011

We are officially ahead (or neck, if you will) of the curve! I know some of you were a little bit timid in seeing this trend come alive. It is extreme menswear and how to wear it may be a bit of an obstacle that you aren't ready to tackle, but get ready because it seems these collars are here to stay.


Take it to the Neck:

1. You do not, do not have to wear a collared shirt to pull of this look. In fact it would look better without one! You'll be adding another layer of grace to your almost complete ensemble, and it could also go along with your statement necklace for the day like Kristen Bell (above) did.
2. There are no color limitations or restrictions with this trend. Collars are supposed to pop, (full of the neck jokes today) so make them! 
3. Similar to #1, your neckline isn't decided by the collar or shirt you pair it with. Have fun with tanks, tees, blouses, or  strapless - if you dare. 
4. Last but not least for us Curvy girls - I know you may be worried this style will draw unnecessary attention upstairs, and you may feel unbalanced in the rest of your outfit. Not even close! Collars are a statement, just like a belt, or a necklace, or printed shoes. They are an accessory and as long as you don't do the Arm Candy effect around your neck, you will be just fine with this trend. :)

Although I do professionally make these Collars (you can email me), I won't be offended if you go another route. There are many talented artists who have taken this simple element  to another level. See below:

Scalloped Sequin Collar Necklace

Sparkling Collar Necklace

INC Collar Necklace

H &M Collar Necklace - On Sale Now!

And my personal favorite:

Dannijo Collar Necklace

What do you guys think? Can Girls do one more thing better than Men? I think I did:

OOTD:  I am wearing, Gap Blouse, Forever 21 Maxi, Vintage Belt,  Go Jane Necklace

Leave your comments below in The Last Word!

Photo Credit: Trend De La Creme, Buy Now Blog Later, GoJane, Forever21, Macy's

-TLW!

Tracy Clifford Addresses Us Curvy Girls

Greetings to all of my Curvy women!

Remember this interview I had with Tracy Clifford?:

Well as promised, and a much needed Monday treat, I present to you Part 2 with Ms. Clifford. Here, you'll see how us Curvy Girls fit into the Styling universe and the best practices in organizing our wardrobes/accessory approaches, and the highlights of one exquisite career in Fashion.

Do you feel certain body types are easier to dress or do you look for designs based on clientele needs?
TC: I definitely base my clothing selection and styling on the individual client and their needs. That is the only way to do it! Your client has to feel confident and comfortable. I would be lying if I did not admit that certain body types are easier to dress than others. When I have to get things made and bring tailors in, the process definitely becomes more complicated and expensive. However, I find dressing a more challenging figure to be the most rewarding. When I make people look and feel great there is nothing more satisfying.


Everyone has their closet staples. What are yours?
TC: My #1 closet staple is definitely a cardigan. They provide warmth, arm coverage and most importantly allow me to wear s/l dresses and tops year round. I am also a boot girl. I love to pair boots with my dresses, skinny jeans and leggings.

Where do you begin styling? Do you start with accessories or wardrobe?
TC: There is nothing worse than having different parts of the outfit compete with each other [We agree!]. I always have my clients show me the most critical piece to their outfit and work around it. If that piece is a dress, I showcase the dress and accessorize accordingly. On the other hand, if it is an avant-garde shoe or bag we put together an outfit based around that piece. For instance, a printed or beaded dress needs a simple shoe and bag. A colorful bag or shoe needs to befriend simple clothing.

What is the most paramount moment of your styling career?
TC: There have been many amazing moments throughout my career. Probably the most important one came when I was the full time buyer for Marissa Collections. The store owner, who is to this day my mentor, allowed me to go to Paris by myself. This meant that I was completely responsible for the store and it's merchandise. When I realized my eye and talent had been fully recognized, I knew I was on my way. That experience is what has given me the drive and confidence to found Tracy Clifford Style.

How would you categorize yourself? (Curvy vs "not Curvy") - The best part of the interview!
TC: I would not categorize myself. I am unique and prefer to be that way. You will never see me modeling in a showroom or walking down a runway, but I accentuate my physical assets and express my personality through my love of fashion. I don't believe fashion is about waify models strutting down the runway. It is about passion, style an self expression.  

Do you see what I see? Self expression of individuality is beaming all throughout my interview with Tracy Clifford - as well it should! There aren't any guidelines in Fashion in how to make you feel like YOU. You have to know what works for yourself and an exercise that any way you can.

Ms. Clifford, it has been a pleasure to speak with you and get perspective on true style, from a hometown expert. For more about Tracy please visit her website (link above) and follow her on Twitter : @TCliffordStyle !

-TLW!

Photo Credit: Chictopia, Ebay Images, Inhabitat.com, Go Outfitters Blog

Do you know Tracy Clifford?

I'm back! I have missed all of you in stylish blogosphere, but let me tell you that Puerto Vallarta sun is a paradise not to be missed!

See what I'm sayin?!

But now that I am back it is my pleasure to share with you, a chance meeting with famed Chicago Stylist, Tracy Clifford.

In Ms. Clifford's career, she has assisted Oscar De La Renta with the assistance of her strong background in retail buying. She is fluent in the prose of textiles, learning fabrics and best fit from interacting with influential designers world wide. Her niche is fashion shows in Milan, Paris and New York, and aside from these accomplishments, most importantly "[Tracy] is attuned to the way fabric and cut can complement the body by accentuating each woman's natural beauty." - Tracy Clifford (Shout out to us Curvy girls!) See in Part 1 of my interview her take and inside scoop on styling, Chicago Fashion, Spring/Summer Trends, and how to be your personal best with rehabbing your closet:

Tone It Down, Don't Sweat It Out: A Curvy Girl's Workout

So the core of this blog (pun intended), is to put your best Curvy self forward right? So let's start from the inside out and work on getting in our best shape. It's officially May and Summer waits for no one!

I know. Working out is not fun, but we all have to do it! 

Recently I have tried a variety of workouts- major Cardio workouts: stints of sprinting, and long distance running. I felt great! I built up my endurance and I felt healthier and lighter. The only problem with those exercises is they're fat burning exercises, and I lost 2" everywhere! I was losing my Curves! So I decided to look further into better work outs and I found the following:

• When you run or do any type of Cardio and there isn't fat to burn, your body will look for other sources to take from i.e your hips, butt, bust, thighs, you name it. It's great for your heart muscle, but shouldn't be your only workout regimen. 
• No pain. no gain is a real truth; I'm talking about weight lifting. Weight lifting sculpts. It builds muscle and general tonality in your body. 
• I generally believe toning this is the best workout for Women everywhere. You can get it from various types of Yoga, Stretching, Strength Training, and Resistance workouts. Overall this is the workout that targets areas of the body instead of an overhaul weight loss.

I am not a Trainer, Cardio God, or claim to be anything such. All I know is these workouts work for me, and it would be a shame to not share with my fellow Shapely Women! Below is my workout regimen that I do 2 - 3 times a week + some suggestions for workout clothes; 'cause Ladies, we really go to work when we look good, right?. Check it out: 

 Incline on the treadmill for 30 minutes! You will sweat. It helps tone your legs, butt, and lower abs. I try to do it at a 3.0 speed so I am power walking, and in the last 5 minutes increase my speed every minute.

Arms! Any kind of arm workouts I generally do: Bicep Curls, Tricep Extensions, Lateral Raises (front & side) Chest Presses all work. I try to do 2 reps of 10 with 5 - 10lb weights.

Abs! I know you should workout with energy throughout, but here is where I kind of give it my all - especially since I think this is the body part you show the most! (Think 80 degree beach days).

Planks - 2 sets (1 at the beginning of your Ab set and one at the end for 1 minute each) 

Regular Sit Ups/Oblique Sit Ups - 25 regular, 25 on each side 

Butt Lifts - 25 sets *I like this one because you're using you're lower abs as well as your glutes 

You can obviously exchange my exercises for any of your own preferences, but these are the ones I have used to get bikini ready. Now onto the wardrobe...

GapFit gFast Colorblock Capris

GapFit Mesh Tank

Mossimo Supply Co. Juniors Pullover Hoodie

Xhilaration® Juniors Yoga Pajama Pant

Asics Women's Shoes, Rush33 Sneakers

That's it! I hope I've made getting in shape a little more bearable for us all. And if you won't listen to me, then listen to Queen Bey and 'Work It Out" !

-TLW

Photo & Exercise Credits: FatBurninTips4Women Online, Fitness Magazine Online, Real Age Health Online, SD Chiropractic Blog, Wikipedia, Picky Eater Blog, Women's Health Online, Livestrong Online, Does This Blog Make Us Look Fat?, Divine. Ca, Target, Gap, Macy's

Stars Came To WORK At The WHCD!

Happy Sunday Divas!

The 2012 White House Correspondents Dinner was last night and as you know, the celebs and journalists alike rolled out their Glam Squad for the event hosted by Jimmy Kimmel. See below for my favorite looks of the night & why:

Ginnifer Goodwin in H&M's 2012 Conscious Collection

This is a win for H&M! The retailer has definitely upped their style/manufacturing within the past few years and major kudos to them for producing pieces to this caliber. Aside from the natural waist, Goodwin isn't overpowered or swallowed by her adornments in this ruffle number and her POC with red lips is just right.

Ivanka Trump in Naeem Kahn

We all know I love to sparkle so right away this dress caught my attention; but I also loved the lines here. Usually when the eye is brought to the center of the body it can have a negative effect. In this Kahn dress however, the lines continue down the center front adding a slimming effect.

Kate Hudson in Jenny Packham 

 More sparkle! Bravo to Ms. Hudson - not only is the new mother of 2 rocking this Curve hugging full length sheath, her dress is the center of attention paired with one of the most phenomenal buns I've ever seen!

Kerry Washington in Calvin Klein Collection

This look is in the running for my favorite. The color is completely on trend for the season with a hint of sexy in the "V" neckline, and her makeup is flawless with a coral/nude hue to match.

Lindsay Lohan 

I don't know the designer of Ms. Lohan's dress - I'm mostly just glad she showed up and showed out a bit. I've seen a lot of blogs trash this look but I think it's classic! She's working the Old Hollywood vibe with the Siren Red lip, her natural color locks, and black dress. The reason this halter cut works so well on her, is because if the full skirt & train at the bottom. It's not too body hugging, but the silhouette it's creating on her is very old school glam.

Elle MacPherson in Romona Keveza

Slick Splits! I love the cut of this dress, the emphasized waist, the contrast of black fabrics, and of course the split showing off those infamous gams. Simple elegance with sex appeal. Fab as always Ms. MacPherson.

Viola Davis in Amsale

Viola Davis wins my Look Of the Night award! From previous red carpets we know that Ms. Davis isn't afraid to play with different looks whether it's color, or hairstyles and she always beams this ray of confidence that is the paramount part of any ensemble. Here, she is a vision in Amsale not only in a color that complements her complexion and on trend for Spring, but the embellishment at the top of her dress coupled with the natural waist creates such a Curvy silhouette that is to die for. Work it out, Viola!

What do you guys think? Did these Ladies dress their best for the POTUS? Leave your comments and be heard at The Last Word.


-TLW


Photo Credit: CoCo Perez, Huffington Post, Fashionologie