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:
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.
There are no color limitations or restrictions with this trend. Collars are supposed to pop, (full of the neck jokes today) so make them!
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.
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:
Let me preface this post by saying I do not hate the Sock Bun. I LOVE the Sock Bun. I would even live for the Sock Bun if, I could do it.
This post is for all the gals like me who have spent time and energy to create the perfect 'do, only to wind up with holy socks, a high count of bun rollers, and hair NOT in a bun.
I wish.
I can't do the Sock Bun to save my life and I finally gave up trying. It's such a beautiful style. It's regal, my hair is up and out of my way, and it's HUGE- just like a bun should be. Then I thought about it--all these elements can be achieved in many other ways! So forget this style. I don't give a sock. I'm doing big hair in an updo my own way and here's how:
The Top Knot
The Bun Braid:
The High Bun with A Twist
And if you're just done with the bun altogether, (I don't blame you) check out these high style alternatives:
French Bouffant Roll
Modern Milk Maiden
The Peacock
The Braid-Hawk
Don't limit yourself. Hair can go up in all kinds of ways and just because you can't grasp the mastery of a trick with accessories intended for your feet, doesn't mean you can't pull off a Chignon of your very own. :)
Show me your style! Leave a comment or send me your own version of the up do to showcase here, on The Last Word.
So we've talked about how to Style, Runway Trends, and Cosmetics, but we need to address is the foundation of all possessions: Shopping! Especially shopping at the Insta-Fashion Mecca:
They have everything from Prom Dresses to Cuticle Trimmers and honestly, walking in the door of a multilevel retailer can scare off the most fearless of us Curvy Girls. So, this post is my ode to all the women who have spent 2+ hours on the shopping floor only to walk away with one garment, if anything at all. It's pretty simple, straight to the point, and I promise you will never lallygag again.
1. Know Your Retailer.
Forever 21 can be shopped both online and in store. Fun Fact: I have from sales associates on good authority that 75% off the items you see online, have already been on the sales floor for weeks. You have the option of finding it via sales associate with the item# a lá Macy's, but you'd be hard pressed to shop the entire store for an online "New Arrival".
2. Know What Your Store Sells.
For me, there are 4 Chicagoland Forever 21 locations: North Ave, Water Tower, The Shops At North Bridge, and State Street. These 4 are all in different areas of the city, and therefore all have different assortments to appeal to a different shopper. Know which one best suits your needs --> Water Tower = More Everyday Options, The Shops At North Bridge = Accessories GALORE, State Street = Party Attire, so you aren't in the store forever. Which brings me to:
3. Have A LIST.
I don't mean an itemized grocery list, I mean have a list. Whether it's "I need a purple paisley dress for a dinner party" to, "I need a top cause it's going to be 80 degrees on Saturday", either way you know what you are shopping for and know which section of the store to shop in. Walking blind in Forever 21 can be more hassle than it's worth when you get tired, and their music will ALWAYS be louder than your headphones.
4. You See That Dress for $6.50 ? So Does Everyone Else.
I do the running man- live and in store when I find a great deal, but Forever 21 will forever have the under $10 items that seem too good too be true; it's because they are! These items aren't your friend for several reasons: the cheaper items are highly massed produced. They're made fast, in multiples, and not so great fit-wise. Most importantly, you aren't the only one who saw the price tag which means everyone you know will pop up wearing that piece. Believe me, there are diamonds in the rough, but someone you met at a party or went to College with will wear that "bargain" in a profile picture on Facebook.
5. Try On The Really Cute Dress.
You know, the ones that are in the $22.80 or more range. Mostly because the higher priced garments are made with care & better silhouettes. That also means you'll probably need a size smaller than you think due to this attention to detail. Review the final cut at the end of this step and you are finally ready to check out!
I know, all of this sounds like the rantings of a Shopaholic. That's true, but so is everything else in this blog post! All of these tips have helped me ESPECIALLY when a girlfriend calls last minute to go to a really cool event, and I only have 30 minutes to shop. It is possible! And Curvy Girl S/O: Forever 21 has a line made for us, and Love 21 - the newer contemporary line with a more forgiving size chart.
Obviously these can be used for any mass or big box retailer of your liking. The point: go with a mission because aimless shopping with Techno Pop blaring in the background is not for the feint of heart.
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
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:
I am taking so time off to enjoy some rest and relaxation under the sun, (which I'm sure will lead to many inspiring Summertime styling tips). I'll be back to the blogosphere some time next week. In the mean time..embrace your Curvy selves and be fierce!
DO IT!
-TLW
Photo Credit: My Pinterest Boards --> Follow Me :)
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...
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
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
I've had a great time here at The Last Word. I have been connecting with many of you, and I hope readers get as much empowerment from my posts as I do writing them. Embracing Curvy here on this blog has even helped me escape my own hip hugging insecurities, and I am so happy to have a medium to do so!
That being said, I know you have seen all these posts:
..but I want you all to know this blog is about you too! I want to know what Curvy obstacles you think you may have to we can blaze through them together.
Email me at the blog's official email: The Last Word
Follow me: @AriannaAKG
& add me on Google Reader!
I can't wait to hear from you all & remember: Curvy Girls have The Last Word.
To all my Chicago Fashionistas, please join me this Thursday in celebrating the Chic 1st Anniversary of Shop 857!
Located in the heart of Lincoln Park, Shop 857 features exclusive Ready to Wear following each seasons Show Stopping tends! Plus, everyone who stops in this Thursday will receive 15% off your total purchase! The party is sponsored by Ciroc, so come toast with me on this Thirsty Thursday :)
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