Midi's Are NOT Your Mom's Work Attire!

Remember how I told you that fashion was cyclical? Well time to kick it old school baby, because the Midi Dresses are a good shape for us Curvy Girls!

I was really inspired when I saw the exquisite Emily Blunt on 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show' yesterday. I know you're wondering why I reference this Show as of late -I set up my Tivo for Ellen because the guest spots have been amazing; but I digress. Emily was paling around with Ellen yesterday in a collared Midi Dress from Victoria Beckham's Fall 2012 line:

Emily Blunt in Victoria Beckham Fall 2012

Victoria Beckham RTW Fall 2012

Photo's courteous of The Ellen DeGeneres Show & Vogue.com

Ms. Blunt loves her dress- she says it's very "Posh" and you should too!

I love to shout about Curves on this site, but I also like to celebrate being who you are on whatever the occasion. I think the 'Midi' is the perfect opportunity to show your sexy curvy side appropriately, within the realms of Corporate America. The dress is a professional silhouette, and because of both the sultry and work appropriate length, you can pull this look off in the sometimes unfashionable hours of 9-5. Here's how:

• If you remember my first post, Ever Wonder Why You're A Fruit?, I highly recommended pencil skirts. I still do, and this is it in full dress form!
• High Heels - high as you can go for work. The only possible negative of this style is that it takes over your whole body. However, wearing heels will give a presence to your lower half and give you height to show off that slender chic look from the Midi Dress.
• Prints! The best part of this dress is that it's slimming, right? Well prints in one direction have the same, if not better effect. Experiment! It's you best opportunity to.

All of my suggestions are from Global Beauty & Fashion online retailer ASOS. They carry & create this style of dress with utter perfection. PLUS- there's a 70% of sale these days! Check it out:

Motel Midi Dress With Cut Out Racer Back In Aztec Print

Motel Zoe Midi Racer Dress Batik

Motel Midi Dress Cut Out Racer Back in Leopard Print

ASOS PETITE Exclusive Midi Dress In Squiggle Print

Motel Midi Zoe Dress in Abstract Pebble Print

Ganni Striped Midi Dress with Button Detail

ASOS PETITE Exclusive Midi Dress In Scarf Print

ASOS Midi Pencil Dress With Wrap Skirt

Tell me! What are some other ways to rock this 70's inspired trend?

-TLW

Sunkissed Summer Glow In 3 Easy Steps!

Hello Readers! I apologize for the delay, but for those of you in the Chicagoland area you understand that I have been soaking up the sun! Including today's 84 degree day :) For those of my readers who are not in Chicago: fear not! Spring is coming your way and from this post you will be ahead of the game for your warm weather essentials.

One of the paramount things about my Spring/Summer's is I don't have to use foundation, period. Once I give my skin a nice healthy glow - I just dust on some bronzer and gloss (shadow for special occasions of course), and I'm out the door.  Who can resist this look?

Think of it as a makeup shortcut that's fairly simple. No color coordinating outfits with eye shadows or lipsticks & glosses, just letting your skin shine for days on end. How do you ask? I like to buy products using these rules of thumb:

• Step 1: Bronzer: Think of bronzer to your skin as highlighter is to a paper. It's to target those area's you need to see/remember right? Same with your face. Pick a bronzer with undertones of your skin and a shade or two lighter than your complexion. Or to go a fancier route, pick the bronzer the same color as your completion but boosted with glitter; both types of products give you the shine you are looking for. Also remember these key areas: 

• Steps 2&3: Lips-  You can either choose another neutral tone here, or for fun, jazz it up with bronzier products. I like to use Lip Liner that is on the opposite end of the color spectrum of the complexion. In my case, I use Peach. Then I blend it in with a bronze Lipstick or Lipgloss. The only trick here is, you can't use clear. Ever. You have to use some sort of color, otherwise your lips will disappear within with the general tone of your face and you unfortunately loose that Sunkissed look. Try colors a step above (lighter) than your complexion to complete the look.

Last but not least I cannot forget the golden rule in this look (pun intended): Skin Care! I know that technically you aren't wearing makeup you may not feel the need to wash your face. No, no, no. It's still makeup, taking host on your pores and you need to cleanse it every night. This look is bare minimum and foundations and powders typically hide the look of blemishes, but bronzer does not. So listen to Olay, and "Love the skin you're in" - Cleanse it! :)

Here are a few of my go to products:

Tarte Cheek Stain in Natural Beauty

I know "stain" typically has a negative connotation, but here it is the best thing about this product. It stays all day long, and the product gives your skin enough shine so you know it's there, but isn't heavy or cause build up the way some foundations do. You just apply to the apples of your cheeks, forehead, and chin and rub in.
It's featured in 8 different shades and you can buy online at Tarte Cosmetics or visit Sephora online & in store.

Mac Powder Blush in Format

This is the other kind of blush I use in a night time look. It's in a shade not to different from the color of powder I wear, but has the glimmer effect that I was telling you about above. Once bronzed by the sun, I get this Rose colored effect that works exceptionally when paired with a shimmer gloss and shadow. This product comes in 37 shades and is available anywhere MAC products are sold.

Rimmel London 1000 Kisses Stay On Lip Liner in Spice

Another product with the Color Stay factor. This product blends very easily with lip colors as well as glosses, doesn't smudge or budge, and is my Pop of Color for the Summer. It comes in 9 shades and sold at local drugstores.

MAC Lipstick in Cosmo

Like I said in my NYE Megapost: It's Never Too Late I am truly a MAC fan and I don't think that will ever change. Aside from their quality products, this lipstick is in essence the perfect shade. It's described as "Pink Coco" which is exactly my description for a warm weather lip color. It matches my skin, with light undertones you still look and feel like you are wearing a lip color. To check out the other shades of lip gloss, and other fabulous lip products check out  MAC  online :)

Last but not least:

This has recently become part of my daily skin regime and I could not be happier. It doubles as a face wash and a face mask that tingles below pores to cleanse your skin. It leaves me with a refreshed feeling and also helps combat oil - a foe you cannot escape in the tropical weather.

That's all for now! Enjoy the weather and be FAB!


-TLW

Photo Credit: MAC, Neutrogena.com, Rimmel London Online, Google Images, Tarte Cosmetics 

Who Wears Short Shorts?

Hello Darling Divas! It's another week closer to Spring, and I for one could not be more excited! Continuing in my warm weather theme and at the request of one of my readers, @Edoubleyou, I have one of my sexiest trends for the heat: Jean Cutoffs & Plain Tee's!

You guys remember this 'fit right?

Beyonce's First Solo Single "Crazy In Love"- 2003

At the peak of the "Curvy Craze" Ms. Knowles rocked this outfit, and I think she looks gorgeous. I admire Avant-Garde fashion as much as the next girl, but at my core there is something so easy Royally Sexy about a plain shirt with shorts. It's the unofficial Summer uniform- comfy, casual, and the best part is you can accessorize any way you want!

My only problem is this: "Shorts" are such a relative term for each designer; I've learned this the hard way. While I love Miss Daisy Duke and her infamously daring Pedal Pushers, I don't want to look like her all Summer. I'm sure my Curvy girls agree! So how are you supposed to feel comfortable in this timeless trend? Follow these steps below for some Sharp Shorts :): 

• The good news for us Curvy girls is that Bermuda Shorts are making a swift comeback (Read Marie Claire: Top Spring Fashion Trends Straight from the Runway)!  In other words - you'll find Cutoffs long enough to favor your shape, and short enough to be brief ;)
• Make sure there's always an equal ratio of T-Shirt to Shorts. Over sized T-shirts are great, but their name says it all. You don't want to get swallowed in cotton, and you also don't want to rock Mom Jeans with a high waist. Try to always tuck some part of the shirt into the shorts so you can show off your body-Too big or too high clothes will segment you in unflattering ways.
• Accessories are key but with this trend, less is more. Remember this is Royal/Easy Sexy - you don't need a body full of jewels! A hot pair of bangles, studded earrings, funky tights, or an exceptional bag will do just fine :)
•  We've already established what kind of Jeans already fit us (Jeans For My Big Ol' Butt). and if you can't find Cutoffs - DIY! All you need is a good pair of scissors to cut the jeans at the desired length, and use the points of the blades to fray and fringe. Why not show off your take on the style!

My picks:

Gap + Threadless I Luv Uuuuu T

Silvergate That's a Wrap Sleeveless Top

Understar Shoulder Slit Shirt

Alternative Apparel Super Destroyed V-Neck T-Shirt

Blank Denim The At Risk Short

Vince Denim 5 Pocket Bermuda Shorts

Forever 21 Denim Bermuda Cutoffs

For the Daisy Duke in you:

Evil Twin The Hell Ride Shorts

Boston Forum Vintage Collection

I also come bearing deals this week :) For selected Tobi.com items you receive 30% off, Shorts Sale at Forever 21, and receive Free Shipping + 21% off by following The Karmaloop Street Team on Twitter!

Take a shot at Shorts ;)

-TLW

I'm Not Biker Chic, I'm Metallic Chic!

It's that time again, folks! So let's get straight to our Hump Day Post :)

The Internet is a blaze as of late, with Spring, Pre-Fall/Fall 2012 Trends and one that seems to be here to stay is the Motorcycle Jacket. Here is the thing: We have seen Biker Chic before, and while Leather is truly a closet staple in any form, I personally don't have a style aesthetic that matches "Grunge" or "Biker". HOWEVER! I can completely agree with Metallic (remember: Let It Shine ?), Glitter (how about Glitter Is A Girls BFF ?), Or Sparkles as Outerwear: 

IRO Spring 2012

IRO Spring 2012

Atelier Versace Spring 2012 Couture

Photo Credit: Monica Rose  & Fashionologie.com

These jackets are BEAUTIFULLY constructed. They have the same Edge-y feel as the Moto frame, but there is a lot of POP going on. With IRO, the jackets have strategically placed zippers, stained leather, and a fashion fave: sequins. With Versace, glitter & revolutionary detailing create the beauty of these pieces. These Jackets are a far cry from Harley, (Sorry Mr. Davidson) and should be in every girl's closet ASAP!

So, how do you do it?

• Again, this trend is obviously NON Biker Chic. Everything you wear underneath should be clean. Straight-legged or Skinny Jeans, and simple colored Tanks/Tees, or Dresses. The idea is to be innovate with the jacket - step outside the Moto box!
• Play up the color! As seen in a few pieces above, there is nothing wrong here with matching. You can match one (if not all) the colors of the jacket to a piece you are wearing, OR you can make your own suit and add color to your bottom half.
• Don't over-accessorize! This trend is in a very central location. You won't need a lot of 'POP' elsewhere. Try and stay simple with jewelry - Gold and Silver Studs or plain colored Bangles.
• Identify your shapes - be mindful of where on your body the Jacket ends. If it hits you at the waist, identify your waist with either a belt, or a long top so this fabulous trend doesn't "chop" your body. Show your silhouette from head to toe.

Look at some of these for inspiration:

ASOS Metallic Collarless Leather Biker Jacket

KARL Octavia Sequined Biker Jacket

Royal Underground Ruffle-Trim Metallic Motorcycle Jacket

Calvin Klein Faux Ultrasuede Metallic Moto Jacket

Ralph Lauren Jenski Metallic Suede Jacket

Blaze the trail in a Glam way!

-TLW

Pleats, Please!

Top of another week to you all! Wherever you are reading this, I hope you have saved your Monday attire from all the slush and snow. On this Manic Monday, I want to draw your attention to Pleats, but not just any pleats, Chiffon Pleats! They are no longer just for school girls- peep Katherine Heigl in this month's Elle Magazine:

Katherine Heigl in Fendi
Photo Credit: Tom & Lorenzo

There is something so regal about pleats to me. The presence of a well done pleat is so Royal and Chic, you command attention when you walk in any room - which is why my closet is full of pleats ;)

Case & Point:  "Carrie Bradshaw" in Halston Heritage Iconic Pleated Long Dress in Orange

Photo Credit Google Images

I'm also Team Pleats because the lines are vertical, and we all know how I feel about vertical (slim) lines. With the bold return of Chiffon, this trend is a priority for the upcoming Spring/Vacation season.

Want some Pleats? Here are my tips before you do:

• Just because it's see through, doesn't mean I have to see you! Chiffon Pleats are great, but don't go the normal route with see-thru textiles and show off your underoos - take this chance to do something different! Experiment with different colors, prints, or even textures (Lace and Chiffon can't go wrong).
• Don't loose your shape! Most Chiffon pieces are billowy - they create a lot of movement and volume on the body. Make sure the remainder of your outfit is juxtaposed with something form fitting so you can show off your bodacious bod.
• Remember the rules! Chiffon Pleats, and pleats of any kind for that matter, are still garments. Remember which garments fit you and compliment you best to afford this trend (Note: This advice goes for all frocks).

Try it out!:

Penelope Silk Maxi Dress

The Colorblocked Maxi Dress Mint X Navy

The Colorblocked Party Dress

The Jasmine Pleated Pant

Try it in Bikini form - Seafolly Pleat Bandeau Bikini

Live it up like royalty in Pleats, Girl!

-TLW

So I Watched The Golden Globes- Now What?

Hello and what a fabulous day it is for another BLOG POST! :) The focus for this post Ladies (and you fashionable Gents) is pretty self explanatory in the title. With countless pre-pre arrival, and arrival specials for Designer creations, we essentially sat through 3+ hours of a fashion show. So now what? You may be thinking 'I have no where to wear these dresses, so how does this show benefit me?' This is where I can help.

Many of these dresses were from Spring and Pre-Fall Collections of this year, there were 3 noteworthy trends from the 2012 Golden Globes: Mermaid, Natural Waist, Feathers & Fringe, and I am here to show you how to incorporate these in your daily wardrobe.

Trend Alert#1: Mermaid

Charlize Theron in Dior, Sofia Vergara in Vera Wang, Reese Witherspoon & Kelly Osbourne both in Zac Posen

Each of these dresses, and the stars that adorn them, are magnificent in their own right; but to me, there is a timeless Vintage presence about the cut of a Mermaid dress that is always a safe bet when dressing up. The construction of 'The Mermaid' has 2 perks: 1. The bodice of the dress does all the work, no shapewear needed! 2. The flare at the bottom gives volume and draws attention to those gorgeous gams of yours! Below are a few everyday choices to get 'Maid:

Champ de Mars Dress

I Really Mist You Dress in Taupe

Midnight Sun Dress

Trend Alert#2: The Natural Waist

Ariel Winter in D&G, Viola Davis in Emilio Pucci, Laura Dern in Andrew GN, Diana Agron in Giles Deacon, Jessica Alba in Gucci, Tilda Swinton in Haider Ackermann

We've had the Dropped Waist, the Empire waist, and even the Hip Hugger. In 2012 it's now time to embrace the Natural Waist. This is also a very traditional and Vintage cut with the accents hitting not too far under the bust line. The best part of this trend, as shown above by the Hollywood Starlets is, whether a full or fitted skirt is paired with this trend, the end result is always flattering. It takes attention away from the hips and accents the bust, and that's just the best thing since sliced bread. Check out some causal options below to let it fall by the waist side:

Urban Orchard Color Block Strapless Dress

Etiquette of a Lady Color Block Lace Dress

Collective Concepts Life in Prism Print Dress

Trend Alert#3: Feathers & Fringe

Evan Rachel Wood in Gucci, Mary J in Michael Kors, Wendi Murdoch in Tom Ford

What is not to love about this trend? It's different, fun and accentuates every movements of your body! Besides brining back a 70's favorite, feathers and fringe are like walking accesories. Just a few hints of sparkle on your ears, neck or wrist like these Stars have done and you are dressed for any fete. So Fringe on!:

Imitation Oakley Fringe Vest

Shakuhachi Macrame Fringe Tank

Diane von Furstenberg Limora Jacket with Fringe

Photo Credit:  DCFA.com, JustJared.com, USWeekly.com, Popsugar.com, Celebrity-Gossip.net, FabSugar.com, UPI.com

See the Golden Globes was worth it - now you can be Red Carpet ready every day :)

Until next time!

-TLW