Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Five Fashion Mistakes We All Make

Who doesn't have a "What was I thinking?" moment in their style archive? (And if you think you don't, we're sure your friends could produce photographic proof of one.) Yes, ladies, even the most fashionable among us have stumbled at one time or another. But while some faux pas can be blamed on the era (wasn't everyone wearing acid-washed jeans in the late '80s?), others are just plain bad, no matter when you wear them. Here, Nahila Chianale, stylist to our own Nicole Williams, tells WORKS what five mistakes you should never make again.

Exposing your visible panty lines (VPL).
If you are wearing light-colored or fitted pants or skirts, please -- for the love of Gucci -- put on a thong. (And if the garment is white, make sure the thong is flesh-colored so that its outline doesn't show.) Also, avoid the dreaded "whale tail" by buying pants that aren't super-low-rise. Even if you do have really cute underwear, there's no need for your co-workers to see it. Unless, of course, you're dating one of them.

To read the complete article Click here

Source : http://lifestyle.jonzu.com/Five_Fashion_Mistakes_We_All_Make.asp


Top 13 Fashion Mistakes

When it comes to fashion and trends, we all want the same thing: to look great! Unfortunately, there are some fashion errors that we might not be aware of, but that we might practice. These fashion faux pas are visible, and can completely ruin a perfectly good outfit. Here I’ve listed the top 13 fashion mistakes that women often make.

1. Wearing oversized clothing.

Now there is the wrong oversized clothing and the right over-sized clothing. The right over-sized clothing is some of this spring’s top trends such as the bubble skirt, which looks fabulous paired with a tighter fitting top and a high waist belt. Wrong over-sized clothing is just plain wrong: huge knee-reaching t-shirts, baggy pants, you get the point. Make sure you buy clothes that fit you properly.

2. Wearing red and green at the same time.

Honestly, you will look like a Christmas tree. Red and green are two of the colors that you absolutely must avoid wearing together. These colors completely clash, so just stay clear. Also, it’s best to stay away from green and red makeup. If you decide to go for a green eyeshadow, don’t put on a bright red lipstick. Instead, opt for a clear gloss or a nude color.

3. Dirty shoes.

It would be bad enough if you had shoes that were out of style, or didn’t match with your outfit, but if you have dirty shoes, you’re making a big fashion faux pas. Make sure to keep your shoes in style, according to your outfit, and most importantly, clean!

4. Short skirt and short top.

If you’re going to wear a miniskirt, don’t wear a short top with it! It is one of the worst fashion mistakes you could make because you’ll end up looking trashy. Instead, wear a miniskirt and pair it with a tee that reaches your hip bones. Play it up with a wide belt. If you’re into short tops, just wear jeans and steer away from short skirts.

5. Bulky shoes with feminine dress.

Whenever I see this, I always have to ask myself: “what was she thinking?” A floral, feminine dress should never be paired with bulky shoes such as thick platforms. This kind of dress deserves a pair of soft, delicate shoes. Anything with a small heel, and even wedges and espadrilles.

6. Too much jewelry.

A pair of embellished earrings; a funky necklace; some bangles ; a few rings; maybe a brooch. That is way too much jewelry for you, and for your outfit. So if you don’t want to look like an ornament, keep it simple! A thin, fine necklace and a pair of earrings is enough. Or if you decide for a pair of big, adorned earrings, keep it simple by wearing a few rings or a bracelet or two with that, but stay away from the necklace.Just know your limits.

7. Wearing fashion that doesn’t suit you.

If miniskirts are in, and you don’t have the greatest legs, that’s fine! You don’t have to abide by each and every single fashion trend that comes out. If something that suit your body type, it’s better to stay away from it. After all, most of us aren’t models and a lot of the fashion trends that spring up don’t suit everybody, so be careful what you choose.

8. More than one pattern.

If you have flowers on your shirt, don’t wear plaid pants, or the other way around. Try to stick with one pattern in your outfit. A pair of plaid pants with a solid colored top, or a floral shirt with a pair of jeans. Don’t crowd your outfit with patterns. Keep it sweet and simple.

9. Tights are not for everyone.

As I’ve mentioned before, not all fashion trends work for everyone. Some people should stay away from certain trends. Trends like tights for example. You know they stick to your skin and show off your legs, so if you don’t have shapely legs, don’t wear them please. I know they’re in, but if they make you look bad,avoid them I see so many women wearing tights with over-sized shirts,it absolutely amazes me. But try to avoid this very common mistake for your own good.

10. Panty lines.

Need I say more? If you’re going to wear thin, clingy, or even white pants, be aware of it and don’t walk out with embarrassing panty lines, but opt for a thong.

11. An orange tan

Let’s face it: you know that it’s orange, you just don’t want to admit it. Stay away from cheap self-tanners because they will bring you nothing but trouble. Instead, shell out some money for a better product such as Estee Lauder sunless and make sure you always exfoliate before applying self-tanner.

12. Sneakers with everything.

Sure, we all want to be comfortable in our shoes, but it’s not vise to always wear sneakers with everything from skirts, to jeans, to capris. A lot of people like to wear sneakers with a jean skirt, and that’s completely fine, as long as you don’t do it all the time. It’s a comfy, sporty look, but you can make it classy and sexy. Instead, wear a pair of wedges or high heels. Don’t always pair your jeans with sneakers: it’s boring, and it’s tasteless. Spice up your outfit with a pair of hot stilettos.

13. Don’t indulge

That means don’t over do sparkles, sequins, or any festive looking articles of clothing. While it’s fun to play with different colors, fabrics, and styles, keep it simple is very important. Wearing too much of a good thing can turn into a fashion disaster. If you’re going to wear a top that has sequins on it, keep it simple everywhere else and don’t embellish your outfit even more.

Five fashion mistakes most women make...


You would never dream of making an obvious fashion faux pas (Seamed hose with sandals? Never!)

But even dedicated fashionistas sometimes run the risk of making style snafus.

Here are fashion traps to avoid, with the fixes listed at the end of each:

1. Relying too heavily on the fashion media.

You buy all the fashion magazines religiously, watch awards shows, read the paper and keep up with all the online sources. How could that be a mistake?

By relying too heavily on the media to rule your wardrobe, you run the risk of being a fashion victim.

Remember: most magazines and TV programs about fashion produce an "aspirational" effect. They present you with fabulous clothes you'll want to buy on fabulous models you'll want to look like.

The problem is that a) you probably can't afford any of the clothes they show and b) you're never going to look like a supermodel or a celebrity.

2. Buying clothes that don't fit.

You probably already know that you should NEVER buy something too small, thinking you'll lose weight -- even if it is a $10 Pucci dress you picked up off eBay.

But did you know that little details like the length of your jacket sleeves or the place your pants hem rest can make or break an outfit?

The best way to get perfect fit is to have a tailor alter the garment.

3. Creating a mish-mash wardrobe by buying odds and ends.

Buying up odds and ends on sale may seem to make sense. After all, the easy availability of off-price merchandise has lulled us into thinking that minor purchases won't blow our wardrobe concept or budget.

Actually, it's the little things that kill your wardrobe. Without a plan, you can end up with tons of clothes and nothing to wear. But it's never to late to change your habits

4. Getting stuck in a style rut.

Sticking with classics has been conventional style wisdom for ages, and for women with full lives and limited resources this is still a sure way to investment dressing.

The problem is that as we grow older, we sometimes become a little too comfortable wearing our old standbys (or just doing "replenishment" shopping each season).

Sometimes all it takes is tweaking the basics that you already own to look fabulous.

5. Choosing the wrong undergarments.

Celebrities get stuffed and tucked into heavy-duty body trimmers, push-up bras, even sticky tape to look good in designer dresses for the red carpet.

Just think what the right bra or support-top pantyhose could do for us mere mortals.

In addition to gravity-defying bras and body slimmers that eliminate lumps and bumps, there are other tricks of the trade.

Fashion Mistakes - 10 Looks To Avoid!

There are many fashion mistakes women make and here we have picked out 10 of the most common ones.

Many people make these mistakes as they try to hard, or want to make sure they are wearing the latest fashions or styles regardless of whether they suit them or not.

Fact is, anyone can present a stylish fashionable look. There are styles and fashions out there to suit everyone.

10 common fashion mistakes

1. Your clothes don't fit correctly.

Wearing baggy clothes will add weight to anyone. Clothes that are too small accentuate bulges and can make you look ridiculous.

Don't buy anything thinking that it will be "just right" if you lose weight. Buy for the present and in relation to your clothes size now.

2. Wearing wrinkled clothes.

A great suit or dress won't do you any favors unless it's wrinkle-free. Avoid this fashion mistake and buy clothes that are easy to care for and don't wrinkle easily.

3. Fashion trends that don’t suit you.

Don't try to follow trends that don’t suit you. Keep in mind your figure and age and only wear what looks good on you.

There is nothing worse than seeing someone follow fashion for the sake of it. Face reality, if short skirts are in and you haven’t got the legs for it don’t do it!

There are plenty of fashionable looks out there and it’s a question of finding the ones that are best for you.

4. Showing bra & panty lines.

Wear proper fitting undergarments under your clothing. If they do fit you correctly and you can still see lines, then your clothing is too tight. If you are dress size 14 except it and don’t try and squeeze into a 10.

5. Wearing skirts that are to short.

Avoid this fashion mistake at all costs. Keep your bra straps properly adjusted so they're not hanging out. If your jeans and trousers are low-rise, your panties should be too. Don’t wear a skirt or dress that is too short. Make sure you can sit, walk and dance without exposing undergarments. There’s a huge difference between looking sexy and tacky!

7. Wearing too many Colors.

A common fashion mistake is using to many colors. As a general rule wear up to three colors only, for a easy on the eye coordinated look.

8. Wearing too many prints.

Don't try to mix and match prints or you'll create a look that’s far too busy. Patterns don't look good on everyone. If you're one of those people that look good in just about anything, choose a pattern on the top or bottom, but not both.

9. Using the wrong accessories.

Finish off with accessories that match your style and don’t over do it.

For example with necklaces choose the correct length. For example, short chains and chokers tend to make your neck appear larger. If you are going out in evening wear make sure your handbag is sleek, small and coordinated, a big slouchy bag will totally ruin the look.

10. Clothing & Shoes Should Match.

Keep your clothing and shoes in the same color unless using black which goes with anything. Don't ever make the mistake of mismatching light and dark colors i.e. dark clothes and light shoes and vice versa.

These fashion mistakes tend to come from people not accepting their body type and wearing the latest fashion because its popular.

To look your best, always be true to yourself and you will present a stylish confident look that will create the right impression for all occasions.

FREE Style and image reports, tips and newsletters

If you want to know more about how you can look your best then visit our website and get free style and image guides, as well as articles and newsletters to ensure you always look your best:



We all make fashion mistakes, but some are funnier than others.

1. Too-short shorts

too short shorts

This photo speaks for itself, I think.

2. Sandals with socks

sandals with socks.JPG

NOT a good look.

3. Muffin-top jeans

muffin top.JPG

This woman is normal weight, but her tight jeans are creating a very pronounced “muffin top”. The guy doesn’t look too hot either, with his cropped pants and socks.

4. Speaking of shorts with dress socks

shorts-with-dress-socks.JPG

NOT an attractive look, guys.

5. Adults wearing Crocs

This is cute:

460363352_44b9fe7b87.JPG

This is not:

550915532_1fd01ade7c.JPG

6. Wearing a racer-back or a strapless top with a regular bra

bra straps showing.JPG

Even if the straps are supposedly “invisible”.

7. Some men will disagree, but thongs peeking from too-low-rise jeans are tacky, not sexy.

thongs.JPG

8. Jeans that are too torn, or that are torn in the WRONG places

torn jeans

9. Oversize clothes

baggy pants

I know for sure that I’m old, because I don’t GET the teen fashion of wearing very baggy pants. Wearing baggy clothes - especially tops - was my own fashion crime during my early twenties.

10. Too much makeup

green eyeshadow

She needs to lose the green eyeshadow and wear a lighter shade of lipstick.
Because less really is more.

Confession time: what was YOUR worst fashion mistake ever?

Men's Fashion - 8 Men's Fashion Mistakes to Avoid


Men's fashion mistakes - We all make fashion errors now and again, but some fashion mistakes made by men are just unforgivable. I have outlined eight fashion mistakes to avoid at all costs.

Socks with Sandals
Who decided this was okay in the first place? Living in the Northwest, I am unfortunately faced with some of the worst offenders of this major fashion don’t. I understand that when it is chilly outside we all dream of the warmth of the summer sun, but wearing socks with sandals doesn’t make the seasons change any faster. If you want to wear sandals this badly, move to a warmer climate.

Novelty Ties, Shirts, Boxer Shorts, Etc.
Just say no (I'm channeling Nancy Reagan). There is nothing lasting about novelty clothing nor does it project a stylish, put together image. Leave the smiley faces, hearts, reindeer, shamrocks, animal and various other prints on the racks of the store where you found them.

Blaring Designer Labels
This is a personal pet peeve of mine. I don’t want to be a walking advertisement and neither should you. It’s not a sophisticated look. Just because you are wearing a designer’s name on your chest, sleeve, or wherever, doesn’t make you stylish. Keep it understated and simple.

Backpacks at the Office
I work in a very upscale high rise in Seattle, filled with lawyers and other professional types and it never ceases to surprise how many men wearing nice suits are schlepping backpacks. Unless you are a student or are hiking up a mountain, leave the backpack at home. If you need something for your gym clothes, buy a nice looking gym bag (and there are options that don’t have big logos on them), or if you need something to carry your assorted papers, cell phone, day-planner, etc., get a nice messenger bag.

Chunky Shoes
These were okay back in the 90s, but the big chunky shoes, especially those with square toes, should be retired at this point. Choose something classic that stands the test of time.

Shiny or Glittery Shirts and Suits
If you are looking for something to go out nightclubbing in, I can think of much better choices than those that are glittery, shiny and ultimately tacky. If you are at a loss, try a form fitting black t-shirt or black dress shirt which can be worn with jeans or trousers and dress shoes or casual shoes.

Clothes That Are Too Loose Fitting
In a word, sloppy. Unless you are a hip hop artist, it’s not the right look. Choose clothes that fit your body. This might take some experimentation by mixing and matching certain cuts and styles until you find the right fit for your body that is flattering.

Unflattering Colors
That beautiful blue cashmere sweater you found on sale after Christmas might be really tempting, but if it makes you look ill it’s no bargain. The colors you wear should compliment your natural features such as your eye color, skin tone and body shape. Keep this in mind when putting your look together.

7 Tips Men Need to Know About Wearing Color

A man who knows how to wear color well can really turn some heads. According to Kim Johnson Gross, co-founder of Chic Simple Ltd, men shouldn't be afraid of color but should embrace it. They should experiment even if it's just with shirt colors. Kim and I discussed this topic and we came up with several tips men need to know about wearing color.

  1. Especially wear color in summer
    Summer is such a festive time of year. Light and bright colors are de rigeur. So I advise you to choose a color that is your signature color for the season and one that enhances your natural skin and hair tone.

  2. Stay away from beige colored shirts
    Beige is a bad color for shirts or any article that is around the face. It is rarely a good color for someone. I don't know why designers continue to push this color on us. Just don't secumb to the pressure.

  3. French blue is always a good choice
    French blue, which is a rich medium blue, is a flattering color for most skin tones. It makes a great dress shirt, which is mainly where you will find this sumptuous hue.

  4. Stay away from bright, solid-colored socks
    Colorful socks are okay if they have a design like stripes or argyle. But bright, solid-colored socks are simply not a good idea. Donny Osmond is suddenly coming to mind.

  5. Keep color around the face
    Again, it is important to keep flattering colors that enhance skin and eye color around the face. You don't want to look like you just got out of the hospital, do you?

  6. Stay away from loud patterns
    They are distracting and ultimately not a good thing. If it was ever in, it was the eighties, but we've thankfully moved on.

  7. Take a look around you
    If you are baffled about how to incorporate more color into your wardrobe, take a look around you. Look at ads and store displays. For example, Ralph Lauren really uses a lot of color in his collections. He styles his clothes well—gives classics a twist by using color. Also, Brooks Brothers has more recently had great options with color. If you are traveling abroad, see how the locals use color. Italians are probably the best at wearing color--you would be hard pressed to see people there wearing dark, drab colors.

Kim Johnson Gross is co-founder of Chic Simple Ltd and former fashion director of Esquire and Fashion Editor of Town & Country. Kim has also written monthly columns in InStyle magazine, and appeared on numerous television and talk shows as a leading consumer authority.

How To Avoid Making Mistakes With Your Blush

You think that you look great, but what does everyone else think? Here are some potential problems to avoid.

Difficulty: N/A

Time Required: N/A

Here's How:

1. All colors are not going to work for you. I recently saw a woman wearing brown blush and it (sorry to say), made her look old. Choose a color that is most like your skin tones after exercising. It should be a soft red, pink or plum shade.

2. Don't sweep color onto your face in a visible line. Try a few different placements and then soften it by pressing your fingers onto the cheeks. The color seems to melt into your skin.

3. **I don't want to see where your blush starts and where it ends.

4. Look at photos in beauty magazines. Now copy the placement. Ignore the bone structure the model might have and give it try and see how it works. You might be amazed.

5. Try mixing your own shades. Two colors that don't seem to work, might look great when mixed.

Tips:

  1. Bronzers don't work on all people. Trust me!

Back To School Makeup 2003

It's time to head back to school and the last thing you want is to show up on the first day of school in last years colors. Here's what is hot for fall!

Lipstick: Shiny lips are still popular and the colors are range from soft colors for the neutral look, to deeper shades for the sultry look. We have so many different looks this season, you have a lot of choices.

Eye Makeup is The Focus This Fall
Think Avril Lavigne. Think belly dancers with gray green, icy grays, wines, pinks and purples. Set it all off with lots of dark liners and lots of mascara.

Avril and belly dancers still not quite right? How about these colors... cream shadows in red, gold, peacock blue and icy green. Still lots of emphasis on the eyes, but bolder, brighter colors.

If you want something a "little" more subtle, try your hand at some taupe colors. They will give you as much or as little color and depth as you want.

And if none of these looks work for you, I have one more... the mod look might be perfect for you. Believe it or not, Twiggy eyes are making a comeback. Okay, a little softer and coat the lips with soft, neutral shine.

Foundation:
Fresh faces with natural coverage. We want to cover imperfections, but we don't want anyone to know that we are wearing anything at all.

Blush:
Because of the focus on eyes this fall, you will want to keep the cheeks soft with pale shades of apricot or soft rose. You won't want the two areas of your face competing.

Nails:
Shiny chrome nails are still a hit for back to school. I guess we really don't want to let go of summer. But if you don't like the chrome look, you can stick with the shiny "diamond chip" colors that have been so popular all summer.

Fragrance Pick:
Check out Davidoff Cool Water.

Best Exercise:
If you would like to do a little whittling on the waistline, you can't beat belly dancing. And if that isn't enough, your arms will get an amazing workout at the same time. Jiggly arms will disappear. And if you don't know a thing about belly dancing, you are in luck. I have an entire section devoted to that topic. See the side bar above.