Denim Guide: Wide Leg

I hate to do repeats... but this wide leg denim trend is not going away. Nor would I want it to. Unlike skinny jeans, which let's be honest, aren't the most flattering, the right proportioned wide leg jean can make heavier figures more balanced, add curves to those lacking and look adorable on everyone in between. So check out my old picks, and some new ones below...
J Brand's Kat Wide Leg Jean is a true fashion forward pick... And you must must must pair them with heels. Otherwise you will be swimming in all that fabric (and risk looking about four feet tall.)











The slimmer cut of this AG Mona Trouser Jean looks great on curvy gals. The wide leg balances out a fuller top half and the super dark lightweight denim is incredibly flattering. Style note: Look for jeans with clean lines and monochromatic instead of contrast stitching. Contrast stitching breaks the body into sections, which is not a good idea if you are trying for a long lean look.






Craving more curves? Then anything that brings attention to the waist is your best bet. Try Anlo's High Waist Trousers to add shape to your frame. And make sure you tuck in your top to bring attention to the tab detailing on the waistband.








For a more budget friendly option, try J.Crew's Trouser Jean in antique blue denim. At $135 it may not be dirt cheap, but it can serve double duty: dressed up or dressed down.



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Fashion Flashback: Stirrups

DO NOT... I repeat... DO NOT wear these unless they are hidden under boots. But... if you are supremely anal about your jeans getting all bunchy around your knees, then these stirrup jeans are a pretty practical solution. So stop bending down every five minutes to readjust, or people will start to think you have a serious case of OCD.

7 for All Mankind Stirrup Jean in Black
Also available in a 36" inseam for you super-leggy gals.








Not into the black jean trend? Just buy a pair of these nerdy pant clips and attach them to whatever pair of jeans you want.


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Tailor Fit

Seeing a tailor can make a HUGE difference in the way an article of clothing looks. Because, lets face it... you can't afford to have couture garments every day. Here are some guidelines to make your experience with whatever tailor you choose a little bit easier

• If something needs tailoring, buy to fit your largest body part and then have the rest taken in. This is much easier and less cost-prohibitive than making things larger. And it's great for vintage clothing because you can rarely find things that fit perfectly.
  
• Learn what stores have in-house tailors... Many Banana Republic stores have on-site alterations, as does Nordstrom.
  

• Hems are all important.... and often the easiest to alter. Your pants should generally touch the instep of your foot with a slight break. If you are plan on wearing heels with the pants, plan accordingly.
  
• If you are getting jeans hemmed, have the tailor reattach the original hem. It may be slightly more expensive, but it will look much more authentic, especially if the jeans in question are worn, faded, have extra wide hems or embellishment.
  
• If you are on the petite side, have your jeans shortened so that they are slightly on the long side. This can actually make you look taller, but be careful, you don't want to look like you are swimming in them.

• Hems on skirts usually look best when they stop at the thinnest part of your leg, which, depending on your body type, will be either right above or below your knee.
• Sleeve length is also important for looking put together. Sleeves that are too long can make you look unkempt. But, hey, Jennifer Love Hewitt worked it on Party of Five, so I guess you can too...

Change it up... bored with that blazer? Attach new buttons, or shorten the sleeves (Bracelet length sleeves are all the rage this fall!) Dress not so cute anymore? Make it a mini or a tunic or a top. Grandma's old fur coat? Make it into a cropped jacket, use it to line another coat or even a hoodie, make it into a handbag, pillow, whatever you want... The sky is the limit as long as you have enough material.

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Star Style: Looking Age-Appropriate

Kudos to Michelle Pfeiffer for looking both GORGEOUS and age-appropriate in this deep blue Lanvin Sheath Dress.





Source










In honor of her highness, here are some other options for those of you who have repeatedly requested for more age appropriate attire. But first, some guidelines... not rules, just guidelines

1. Find what works for your body type and stick with it. If you don't know... ASK!!! A lot of experienced (and honest) salespeople actually know what they are talking about. Or you could just e-mail me... but I charge per hour.
2. Dresses and skirts should be no more than two inches above the knee... those hot pants and mod minis you loved so much in high school and college are no longer for you.
3. Nothing too tight, too trendy or too revealing. Repeat after me... I am not Dina Lohan.
4. If you are desperately in love with a new trend... hot color... patent leather... whatever it may be, try it in small doses or as an accessory.
   
5. Don't pile it on. Hopefully you have invested in some major jewelry. Even if it's just costume, pick one piece that's a show-stopper and downplay the rest.
   
6. Be creative. Just because you bought it as an outfit doesn't mean it has to stay that way. Take the jacket from that old suit and wear it with jeans, wide-leg trousers... or vice versa.
7. Cardigans, blazers and wraps are your friends. Don't like your arms? You can still wear that sleeveless top.
   
8. And last but not least... Confidence is everything... You have the experience to know what works for you... so stand up straight and realize that your age is your ally.

This D&G Lace Overlay dress is so incredibly sophisticated. I love the ruffle detail at the neck and the blousy feel of the top.

















This Maggy London Cutaway Silk Dress comes in a gorgeous regal blue, so add some color to your black and beige closet. And the crinkled chiffon material is surprisingly flattering. Oh, and did I mention it's on sale for only $92??














This BCBG Max Azria Cap Sleeve Silk Dress is a great dressy summer alternative. And the seamed waist sculpts a great silhouette.
















This uber-sophisticated David Meister Cap Sleeve Jersey Dress is so edgy that I would wear it. But it is on the tight side, so don't forget your Spanx.








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Like New Again...

Have a favorite purse that has recently sustained a near-fatal injury? Most stains are removable if the proper care is taken.





Fendi Canvas/Patent B Bag







Vinyl bags can be easily fixed with a quick wash in soap and water. Light stains on canvas totes can be cleaned with a dry gum eraser. But heavier stains need a professional.



The Elliott Lucca Large Satchel is a great buy. At only $228, it looks way more expensive then it is.








Find someone who specializes in cleaning handbags as opposed to a dry cleaner, because their heavy machinery can often make things worse. Suede and leather bags also need professional care. Fees for these bags can run from $60 to $125 for leather and between $100 and $175 for suede and fabric. But if you have splurged on a gorgeous purse, that fee is often worth it.
Source

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