Dressing Tips: Arms Edition

Just like we talked about how we aren’t going to say we “hate” our legs…same goes with those arms.   Remember to say “cancel cancel” when start bashing  yourself  and your body parts.

That said, arms can be tough, and for many it’s the first place they put on weight or show lack of toning.  But hot weather is here ladies, so let’s talk about ways to be comfortable and confident in summer clothes when you aren’t wild about baring your ARMS:

Click HERE for my Facebook Live video – Summer Dressing Tips:  Arms Edition.  

It’s nearly impossible to avoid bare arms in the summer, so here are some tip to make it easier:

1.  TAN:  Everything looks better with a tan, even less-than-toned arms.  I love to get a professional spray tan occasionally – there is really no better way to get an air-brushed tan that is natural-looking.
   

    If you are local to me, I highly recommend Kara and Aglow in Acton and Bedford, MA.  Tell her I sent you;  It really is life changing;) 

   To make a real or spray tan last, or to get gradual color, I use Jergen’s Gradual Tan.  I slap some on when I get out of the shower a few times a week.  No streaking, no blotching.  Easy.  Remember to wear sunscreen!  People have also told me they love the Jergen’s gradual tan mousse and in-shower version.
   

2. STYLE:  Look for tops that highlight the most flattering features of your upper body.  For example, an Off the Shoulder top will highlight your shoulders and clavicle bones (in my opinion, the most beautiful part of a woman’s body).   They often come with light long sleeves so your upper arms are covered but you are still showing some summer skin for a pretty, romantic look.  This top from Target can be worn on or off the shoulder and has a fun summer vibe, while still giving arm coverage:
   
3. CUT:  I’m NOT going to tell you to stop wearing short-sleeve tops, especially in the summer.  But keep in mind   that short and cap sleeves are actually LESS flattering to larger arms than sleeveless tops.   When your sleeve ends at the widest part of your arm (or your pant leg ends at the widest part of your calf) you are drawing a horizontal line and emphasizing the width.   On the other hand, a sleeveless top, especially one that cuts in at the shoulders similar to a halter or t-back style is extremely flattering, accenting those shoulders and clavicle bones that you know I love;)Check out this halter dress that will not only flatter your arms, but the pattern makes it very forgiving to a midsection as well:
    
4. 3/4 LENGTH SLEEVES:  The most universally flattering sleeves are 3/4 length.  They are goldilocks sleeves…not too long, not too short;  just right.   They show your forearm and reveal some skin which has a naturally slimming effect too.
   
5. Finally, movement is the key to feeling better about your body, and your arms will respond to simple exercises.  If you make a commitment to exercising your arms a few minutes a day, you will see results in a just a couple of weeks.  Here’s an article with tips to get you started.Thanks for reading, and now go #justgetdressed.Cheers,
   Beth

Dressing Tips: Legs Edition

You know I hate the word “hate” when speaking about our bodies;  I usually say “cancel cancel” when clients bash themselves and their body parts.   But I’m also a realist and understand that we all have less-loved parts that we aren’t in a rush to have on display, even when the weather and temperature warrants it.  This is the first part in my series on Summer Dressing Tips dedicated to common, “troublesome” body parts —  starting with LEGS.

Click HERE for my Facebook Live video – Summer Dressing Tips:  Legs Edition.  (Fast forward to 1:40 where I get started!)

It’s nearly impossible to avoid bare legs in the summer, so here are some tip to make it easier:

1.  TAN:  Everything looks better with a tan, including veins, cellulite and scars.  I love to get a professional spray tan occasionally – there is really no better way to get an air-brushed tan that is natural-looking.  It’s quite a process (she literally sprays every inch of your body)  and if you’re modest it can take a little getting used to, but the results are amazing.
   

    If you are local to me, I highly recommend Kara and Aglow in Acton and Bedford, MA.  Tell her I sent you;  It really is life changing;) 

   To make a real or spray tan last, or to get gradual color, I use Jergen’s Gradual Tan.  I slap some on when I get out of the shower a few times a week.  No streaking, no blotching.  Easy.  Remember to wear sunscreen!
   

2. FIT:  Finding shorts that fit and flatter can be at least as difficult as the dreaded jeans hunt.  There can be lots of trial and error involved.  So when you find “the pair” – grab them in white, a favorite color, and light tan or chambray.  A fun pattern can look great too, but cover the basics first.  My hands- down favorite sources for shorts are Old Navy and Target.   My recommendation for length is going to vary by person, but as rule of thumb, mid-thigh is the most universally flattering length.  A simple chino style like these usually works best and can be cuffed to get the right length.  5-7″ inseams are a good range to look for, keeping in mind that if your legs are shorter, you want to go shorter, not longer.  
3. SHOES:  I’m a firm believer in the power of neutral shoes for flattering your bare legs.  If your shoes blend into your foot/leg, the visual line isn’t broken and your legs will appear longer.   You’ll want to avoid ankle straps, and busy details too…the simpler the better when it comes to shoes that flatter your legs.  If you’re trying to elongate your legs, save the lace ups, pompoms and embellished shoes (like this cool pair from Target!)  for when you wear ankle pants and dresses.  And flats are fine, but a little heel is definitely going to elongate and flatter your legs even more.
    
4. EASY SUMMER PANTS:  If you firmly veto the wearing of shorts,  that’s totally fine too.  There are lots of options for sundresses, skirts and maxi dresses  (a longer dress with a slit is lighter and airier on those hot summer days). My favorite shorts-alternative is what I call “easy summer pants.”  These are pants that don’t stick or cling  to our sweaty bods, like these:
   
5. My final tip is just a suggestion…I find that the more active I am, the better I feel about those body parts that bug me.  Don’t strive for perfection, don’t beat yourself up — instead replace the negative self talk with activity,  Take a walk with a friend, do some squats, go for a bike ride with your kids.  Get moving, and #justgetdressed.Thanks for reading!
   Cheers, Beth

Buy the Dress

Technically Spring is here…. or if you live in the Northeast – it’s going to be here…someday…. hopefully.  Question:  What are you going to do when the invites start rolling in for all those Spring events….weddings, confirmations, communions, bar mitzvahs, graduations, etc, etc???

Do you think “crap, what am I going to wear?”  Or do you have a small but fabulous collection of dresses you can rely on?  Having a dress on hand when the invite arrives, is, as my mom would say, “like money in the bank”.

A basic rule to remember when it comes to dresses is that it’s impossible very hard to find the perfect dress when you’re looking for it, especially under a time crunch.   A better approach is first to weed out the dresses taking up space in your closet that you would never reach for, and give them a new home.

Next, always  keep an eye out for dresses you love, and when you see something, and it fits the following criteria, GRAB it.

B.Styled’s Criteria for Dress Buying (even if you don’t have an event — yet):

Impact:   It jumps out at you at the store or on the website.   Just like a piece of art, you’ll know it when you see it, and when you have that visceral reaction,  get the credit card out.  Trust me, you’ll thank me.

Fit and Flattery:  The dress fits and flatters your figure today.  And by today, I mean, now.  Not your figure from last year,  or the one you plan to have next year.  Focus on the current, fabulous YOU and highlighting all your best assets.

Timelessness:  Steer clear of trends that won’t make sense a month, let alone a year from now.  Classic shapes, colors and patterns are the way to go.  Know which shapes best suit your figure (I know a personal stylist who can help with that;)   Styles like sheaths, shifts and fit & flares are never going  out of style.  (Just google Jackie O or Audrey Hepburn.)  Trendy looks such as one shoulder, cold shoulder or cut outs are fun and have their place, but these are not your “go-to’s”

.CLICK HERE for a shopping catalog of some of my favorite dresses in four common occasion categories.  Note that many of the dresses will work for many types of events – the hallmark of great dress.

Party: When you’re going out and want to take it up a notch.

Graduation:  I for one, have high School graduations this June and next, and these dresses work for that kind of daytime event.

Weddings: ‘Tis the season!

Easter, Communions, Baptisms.:  And any other more “lady-like” type of occasions.

Casual:  Everyday dresses that are comfortable and versatile and can be worn for many casual events.

I’ve also included some shoe suggestions.  You’ll see a lot of neutral shoes here.  Why? Because they will work with most dresses…So when you find a pair that you love and that your FEET like.. do not hesitate.  Buy them.

Of course, I’m here to help if you need specific suggestions or help – just send me a note, or go fill out a new client profile.  This allows you to start building your own virtual closet like this example.   I have priced my services in a way to make personal styling, whether virtually or in person, accessible and non-intimidating. My clients find that they actually end up spending less, yet have more to wear, after working with me.  Click here for info on my services, and to learn about my Spring Style System.

Now, go #justgetdressed and have a great weekend!

Cheers,

Beth

Break the Style Rut: The Suit

I’m a huge fan of separates but let’s face it, some occasions and professions call for an actual, grown-up suit.  It’s a good staple to have in your closet, at the ready (think:  meetings, interviews, and even funerals).

Most offices and lifestyles don’t require a suit every day, so  if you can get more fun and mileage out of your investment, all the better.  Remember, my mantra…versatility!

I found this navy suit at Banana Republic (they’re having a sale right now too…code:  BRFAMILY).  It has tiny dots on it, so it’s updated and different, but can still be treated like a solid navy suit.

Let’s see how this closet workhorse can give you lots of different options – from business, to casual, to “chic In-between”.    Maybe you already have a navy suit and you can use these ideas to breathe new life into it.

Wear it as a matching suit with a simple white shell and add a cool necklace and accessories.  I love the idea of a splash of unexpected color in the shoe –  shows personality and polish.

Shop this Look:

Navy Jacket    Navy Pants   White Shell    Statement Necklace    Satchel    Ring    Nude Pump   

Yellow Shoe    Navy Pump

Wear the jacket with jeans and a t-shirt and mix & match your shoes and accessories.

Shop this Look:

Navy Jacket    White Tee    Jeans    Scarf    Ring   Sneakers   Yellow Shoes   Espadrilles 

Create a chic look that can go dressy OR casual.  This pattern shirt is cool with the dots,  and the blush cardigan is a great “3rd piece” that ties it all together.   Too warm for a sweater?  This outfit stands on its own too.

Shop this Look:

Navy Pants   Print Top    Cardigan    Statement Necklace   Ring    Bangles    Blush Lace up Flats   Navy Pumps

Rose Gold Clutch

How To Stay Warm and Look Stylish in a Freezing Office

For this week’s Back to Work Monday, I’m answering this reader question from Barbara S.:

My office is freezing cold, especially in the winter — some of my co-workers literally wrap up in blankets or throw on a North Face fleece over their outfits. It doesn’t exactly scream competent and professional. Do you have any recommendations for how to dress and  look professional but also be warm?

Even if you live in a warmer climate, some offices are cold no matter what’s going on outside.  So  how can you stay warm while still looking professional and stylish? Here are some tips and shopping links.  Many of these items may  already be in your closet too!

You may have guessed that the key is LAYERS:

1.  Cashmere and merino wool sweaters:   If most of your sweaters are cotton or a polyester blend, you may want to upgrade to cashmere or merino wool — I notice a huge difference in warmth.  Now is a great time of year to invest in your sweater collection – both of the linked sweaters are on sale and available in crew and v-neck.
2. “Undershirts”:  I joke that I’m like a preschooler because I wear an undershirt most days.  I’m in love with this one because it’s smooth and stretchy and provides a perfect barrier between me and my blouses and sweaters (reducing my dry cleaning bills too).
3. Cardigans-and Wraps: . You could wear a wool blazer with a merino or cashmere sweater, and if it’s really cold, throw a cashmere wrap or ruana around your shoulders.  It’s almost like wrapping up in a blanket, but definitely more polished looking;).  a less expensive alternative to cashmere, and  available in 6 colors.
4. Long Cardigans:   Longer cardigans and sweater coats  can be a great for both warmth and good looks. You don’t want it to look like a bathrobe though, so choose wisely.  Make sure it fits well (petites —  look for styles that come in petite sizing).   A long cozy cardigan can be warm and chic –  and better looking than a down jacket;)
   
   Have a question you’d like me to address?  Feel free to drop me a note!    Now go #justgetdressed😉
   Cheers!
   Beth

The Grown Up’s Guide to Wearing Leggings

It’s that Leggings-Time-of-Year again.   We’ve hashed and rehashed the whole “leggings aren’t pants”  issue and I think we’re all clear on how not to wear leggings at our age.  In case you need a refresher though, here’s another post on the subject.  Or, for a visual,  you can just head to your local high school to see what I’m talking about.  ‘Nuff said.

Today I want to focus on what does work  with leggings.

The B.Styled 1-2-3 Leggings Formula:

1.  The Leggings:

First of all, my favorite are the  Hue, Ultra WW wide waistband leggings.  They don’t pill and are totally opaque –you can’t see through them AT ALL (oh, so important).  I have them in black and charcoal and wear them a few times per week all fall and winter.

2.  The Shoes:

The top you choose is probably the #1 priority but shoes are key too.  My personal opinion is that the most foolproof shoe to wear with leggings is a pair of tall boots – either flat riding boots or a pair with a medium, thick heel or wedge.  Booties can look cute too but it can be easy for them to look too clunky,  and I like them to be the same color as the leggings.  At the end of the day though, go ahead and wear whatever shoe you want  – but let’s skip the clogs ok?  And please, no hate mail on that one – it’s just my preference – wear what you want!

3.  The Top:

But,  (pardon the pun) the covering-up factor is one area I’m less flexible on…unless you’re a teen,  or you spend a zillion hours a week doing squats and lunges….In which case you’re probably not reading this anyway.

(*Clarification:  I have no issue whatsoever with wearing work out tights, or yoga pants, etc. without a long top when you’re working out or coming and going from the gym…I’m talking about “real” clothes here…)

Anyway, for the top, we want it  to be long enough –  without being a muumuu and without making us look like Maude  (and if you don’t get that reference, chances are you’re young enough to go ahead and wear leggings as pants).

The top should be simple and comfortable– and most importantly,  it needs to cover your nether-regions completely.

Here I’m wearing a Loft sweater tunic,  my go-to Hue leggings and my favorite slipper booties.   I can work at home all day in this cozy outfit  – but still  #justgetdressed.

On this particular day I had to run out to an appointment where I needed to look a little more polished – and had to lose the slippers;)

All I did was swap the cozy scarf for a necklace and add my wedge heel boots.

(tip: wearing a long pendant necklace with your tunic/leggings combo is elongating, flattering and adds instant, easy chic).  

Then I to added a faux leather jacket.  Easy outfit transformation starting with the 1-2-3 Leggings Formula.

(tip:  a fitted jacket adds flattering structure to your tunic/leggings combo)

Are you a fan of leggings or do you pass on them?  Do you remember Maude? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Now go #justgetdressed.

Layering: Tips and Tricks

The #justgetdressed Challenge for today is to experiment with layers.  Layering is key to fall and winter dressing.  It’s also  a great way to add interest to your outfit.  If you do a quick search of fall outfits on Pinterest, you’ll see that some of the most pinned outfits feature the look of a longer layer peeking out from under a sweater or jacket.

It can be a tough look to pull off in non-pinterest-land where the rest of us live, so here’s a simple layering formula for you to try:

5 Steps to a Chic, Layered Look:

1. Start with a basic, lightweight top in a  solid, neutral, or stripe.  Make this first layer fitted to keep your shape looking slim. A longer t-shirt, tank or blouse is a great place to start.
2. Add another layer such as a soft cardigan or sweater. This can be an  opportunity to mix in a bold color to give your outfit some interest and zing.
3. Then add a jacket or coat.  If you went with a colored sweater, go with a  neutral coat: camel, black, navy, grey.  If the rest of your layers are neutral, add a colored coat…maybe wine or cobalt.  Or keep with the neutral theme and include varying shades and textures.
4. Next, add a scarf and/or necklace.  Go neutral or tie in your color of choice.
5. Accessorize with earrings,  watch, etc.

Some more Layering Tips: 

• Remember to keep the under-layers more fitted to keep your shape looking slim.
• To accentuate your waistline, try topping  off your look with something belted.
• Length and proportion is key when layering.  If your pants/skirt is long and flowing, go with something shorter and fitted on top.  If your top is long and flowing, go with something fitted on the bottom – i.e. skinny jeans or leggings.
• Play with texture. It’s best to incorporate a mix of materials when creating  a layered look. If you use all of the same fabrics, especially heavier fabrics, you risk coming off as frumpy and adding extra weight.

I hope that helps… Any questions?  Fire away.  Now…go #justgetdressed.

Here are some great layered looks to get you thinking.  Cheers!  Beth

The Power of The Fitted Jacket

I always include a fitted blazer or jacket whenever I talk about closet staples and must-haves.

But, I can hear some of you ladies out there saying, “Nope, don’t need it.”   Maybe you don’t work in a profession with a business dress code.  Maybe you work from home.  Maybe you’re home with kids.  Or, maybe you’re retired and don’t see the need.

Let’s rethink it though, ok?   Blazers are no longer stuffy and stiff and only for business meetings.  Trust me here… a jacket is a must-have layer that IMMEDIATELY makes any outfit look more sharp and polished.  If you want to  bring your look up a notch, a blazer is a great place to start.  And, as the pictures below show, a fitted jacket can elevate denim to a new level and look fun and flirty – definitely not stuffy or staid.

The key is (surprise) the right jacket for your figure and your lifestyle.  If you still have “work jackets” from the 90’s hanging in your closet (think shoulder pads and masculine, boxy cuts in colors like “hunter green”),  that’s NOT what I’m talking about.  Those need to be put in  a bag and donated, because someone who doesn’t read my blog may just love them.  😉

Seriously though, the perfect blazer is going to be fitted and tailored.  You can’t go wrong with a neutral color like black – or navy, tan, grey or denim.  The more neutral, the more—you got it–versatile, it will be.

I also love a statement blazer in a favorite and fabulous color, or something with texture or cool zippers.  But before you invest in something like that,  make sure you have the perfect, fitted, neutral blazer in your arsenal.

And, remember to WEAR it…even if you’re just running around doing errands.  You’ll look amazing.   I mean seriously, check out Gwyneth below, tooling around town in a blazer, white button down and jeans…drinking an odd-looking green juice thing.  So cool. And you could totally pull off that look, even in the ‘burbs.  And even without the green juice thing. Just button one or two more buttons…

Need some more inspiration on how to wear a jacket and look positively chic and fabulous.?  C.heck out these pictures of jackets styled in various ways.  Nothing stuffy or serious about these fabulous looks, huh? Which is your favorite? (You can click on the picture to see a bigger version).

Now, go grab a fitted jacket and #justgetdressed.  

Cheers!  ~Beth

One Outfit, Five Days

Do you think you could wear the same “outfit” every day, Monday through Friday?

I’ve done it – jeans and a white top – 5 days straight, and no one even noticed.  And it was easy.  The hard part was keeping the white top clean and getting the pictures taken.

Jeans and a white (or other plain, neutral top) is the perfect foundation for just about any look.  If your work or lifestyle negates wearing jeans, you could replace black slacks, ankle pants or a pencil skirt and have the same result.

The secret is the third piece that makes an outfit special.  It can be a jacket, a cardigan, a vest, a scarf, a statement necklace, a wrap, a poncho…. The third piece is the game changer.  .

Day 1: Sporty Vest and Accessories

Day 2:  Classic Trench and Leopard Flats

Day 3: Long Cardigan

Day 4:  Grey V-neck Sweater and Tan Boots

Day 5:  Faux Leather Jacket

Do you think you could do it?  Maybe this should be our next 5 day challenge!  Join my free private Facebook group where I run occasional challenges like this one.

Thanks for reading now, go #justgetdressed.  😉