Key to looking great in that dress!

Herve Leger by Max Azria Fall 2011

A dress is not a dress without the proper undergarments. A dress or any ensemble (for that matter) can be come a major miss with the wrong items underneath. For this reason and this reason only, it is very important that women always make the right choices when shopping for ladies underwear. The ideal look is to be a flawless silhouette with a clean line, minus the lumps, bumps, bulges and imperfections we'd like to keep as our "dirty little secret". Key pieces are "corselets, body shapers, - to wear under skin-tight bodycon style of dresses; bras (that are the RIGHT size) to give the "girls" a BOOST, control underwear - to keep that tummy pouch ( for those who have them) in check , and how could I forget the standard "girdles" - before there was spanx , there was the girdle. The old fashioned waist cincher that transformed many women into the hourglasses they never were, or just enhanced their shape. All of the Hollywood starlets look perfect due to the right undergarments . There is not a A-list actress who has not been "cinched, smoothed, pushed up, and minimized" before putting on a one of a kind couture dress. You may not be on the silver screen , but you can still use all the tricks of the trade to be your most glamorous self everyday!!

Get Into Sequins

se·quin
(skwn)
n.
1. A small shiny ornamental disk, often sewn on cloth; a spangle.
2. A gold coin of the Venetian Republic. Also called zecchino.
tr.v. se·quined, se·quin·ing, se·quins
To affix sequins to (a garment, for example).

Small shiny ornate disks , that adorn everything from accessories, clothing to furniture - sequins always turn up the glam factor a notch when added. Sequin dresses are one of my most favorite choices for evening looks, because there is something about that little hint of "sparkle" that they add. Sequins when added in a subtle approach ( like in the dresses shown above) can go a long way - its glamorous and flashy without being too over the top. More recently, there was a picture of these Ralph Lauren Distressed Jeans that were adorned with sequins as well- its a mix of edge and glam. For the Fashion Mavericks, a Full on Sequin Dress , or even Palettes ( sequins older sister) are a real "show stopper" option. Another great option to add sequins to a look is with accessories. A simple look with a pair of sparkly sequin shoes ( think something similar to those gold Louboutin pumps Carrie wore in Sex and The City 2) , its such a visual treat ! Whatever option you choose, just make sure you choose to add a little glitz, sparkle and glam with sequins!!!

Summer Looks to Take You From Day to Night

Beach

Day

Night

During the summer we usually get into a routine of things - as we do with all seasons,but summer always has a special feeling. There is three specific Summer Dresses you need - one for the beach ( cover up), the day out on the town / or for while at work, and my personal favorite : night. For Beach, Bandeau top dresses (as the yellow number pictured above) are ideal the ideal dress style, for starters they eliminate the harsh nasty tan lines that straps would create , and another great point is that its easy to slip off for a summer dip in the pool , or to get the full tan experience ( just don't forget your SPF!!!!). For Day something a bit more prettier and structured is best, because you're not lounging by the pool or local beachfront bar. I love a dress with a a delicate neckline ( as the pretty dress pictured , middle), and this dress would look amazing with a belt cinched at the waist to take it up a notch. For Night, something with fun pretty prints along with bright energetic colors is a great choice. So remember for summer ,for dresses your must have options in your wardrobe are Beach,Day,and Night , and you're all set!

Maximize Summer with Maxi Dresses

On the eve of summer , one must start preparing their season wardrobe. One summer staple that reappears every year is Maxi Dresses. Perfect for day (like those spent on the beach or on a yacht) or night (that rooftop party), maxi dresses are sure to please. A cut that has been slated to be one of the most comfortable, flatters just about everyone. Perfect for those self conscious about their legs, its the perfect way to hide your flaws, yet remaining confident while showcasing your more flattering areas. Pretty in prints or solids, I think for summer why not go for brighter hues and vivid prints. Solids are still nice , for going subtle - like the dress pictured above, can be played up with a sleek ponytail and hoop earrings, and you go from 0 to 20. Electric prints like the two dresses pictured above - are my perfect for summer. Bright hues combined with vivid intensifying prints are the perfect anecdote to a sun-kissed tan complexion. Bright colors are great on darker skin , and since we all are a shade or two darker than usual during those summer days, why not play it up with tons of color??? I love seeing maxi dresses with paired with beach waves ( a summer staple),and tons of long chains layers, and bangles as well. That adds a beachy-glam touch to these dresses that look great day or night.

Flirt With Ruffles This Spring

My Spring Prediction is one word RUFFLES!!! Ruffles are the epitome of being feminine, and they just add a softness to any item of clothing. From shirts to skirts to the perfect party dress, ruffles are definitely the way to go this spring. We have seen ruffles all over the runways for years, and translated into ready-to-wear options by tons of popular brands as well. A lot of women say they feel extra-flirty in ruffles , and I can totally relate to that feeling myself. When I think of ruffles, I always think of Paris and Romance for some reason. Maybe that is a play on that Flirty appeal ruffles tend to have on people. My favorite item of clothing with Ruffle accents are dresses. From solids, prints, silks, chiffon, laser cut trims, there is a look for every occasion. Shiny textiles are great for evening options as the lighter solid colors are perfect for day. Prints can work for either , and its also all about the accessories - you can always dress up or dress down a look with shoes and jewelery. Just make sure whatever it is you choose , it is opulent and girly to properly compliment the beautiful ruffles! This spring you will see ruffles everywhere !!!

Dress Shopping Online

Online shopping has it's perks. The option of not leaving your bedroom, no long lines to wait on, or annoying sales people that have no clue as to what they are even talking about. The best perk of all is the opportunity to browse through millions of accessories, shoes, handbags, electronic, and dresses online. My favorite item to shop online for are dresses , the feeling of exclusivity when a dress is purchased online rather than in a store - is what I love. The assurance that NO ONE else will show up to your function in the same dress as you ( have you ever purchased an item from H&M ??? - then you know EXACTLY what I am talking about in terms of "twins" moments). I love short sleeve dresses, jewel embellished dresses, tunics - love pairing them with boots and leggings , the list is through the roof. My favorite look for the upcoming Spring season is short sleeve dresses like the Brocade Fabric Dress ( pictured at the very top) its the perfect transition from the cold winter months , yet the delicate shade of pink screams spring. Another favorite look of mines is ruffles of any kind - and I love this ruffle trimmed dress pictured above as well. So when looking for a unique dress , shopping online is your best bet!