Accessorize Your Life

1. Have at least 1 statement piece but not more than three.

2. Shoes are an accessory and can make or break your outfit.

3. Accessorize your purse by adding pins, flowers, or a scarf.

4. Belts can change the look of an outfit. Wear them over a dress or over a long shirt and skinny jeans.

5. Layer your necklaces. Having more necklaces can create a more glam look.

6. Wear a Brooch - 5 Ways to wear a Brooch: Attach to a fabric headband. You can add to a scarf or a necklace to create a focal point. Compliment a hat or a winter coat. Intensify a hairdo by adding one with a bun or classy and elegant with a low ponytail.

7. When in doubt, you can always wear a simple pair of gold or silver hoop earrings. You can never go wrong.
 
8. Fragrance is an accessory and people will remember you by it. Make sure you are not using too much and get others opinions of a new scent you would like to wear.

9. Do not sleep, sweat, or shower in your jewelry. I have some earrings that are specifically for "swimming". I don't care if I lose them or they get ruined, but in the meantime I know they look good.

10. Don't be afraid to try something that you wouldn't "normally" wear.
~Suzy Hicks
Co Director, Columbus Chapter

Fashion 101: Weather vs. Season

This past weekend, Punxsutawney Phil, the world's most famous groundhog did not see his shadow hence forecasting an early spring. For some odd reason every Groundhog’s Day my friends and I get into a heated debate about dressing for the weather versus dressing for the season. My best friend instantly wants to pull out the shorts and sandals at the first mention of spring while I’ll wear sweaters until June. Those of us who were fortunate enough to have parents or grandparents remember being scolded for going outside on a nice day in February with no coat because it was “pneumonia weather”. Old wives tale? Maybe. But, what is really the proper way to dress for on unseasonably warm days, those crazy spring days where it begins cold but ends warm, or during the best time of the year known as summer? Never fear, the LBDC team wants to make sure you’re always on the right side of fashion.

Before we begin let’s agree on one thing. There is never any excuse to be overdressed but it is a direct violation of the rules of fashion to be underdressed no matter the season or weather. To dress too plainly or too informally for any occasion is a NO-NO but arriving to work in February with a mini skirt, no pantyhose, and no jacket just because the forecast calls for 70 and sun is attention you don’t want (trust me on this one).

So what’s the answer to transitioning between seasons? LAYERS!!!  Layering your clothing is a tried-and-true way to ensure your comfort no matter the weather. The beauty of this simple concept is that it allows you to make quick adjustments based on changes in the weather.

Layering makes clothes that don’t seem wearable, wearable. Here are few tips to always look FAB no matter what the weatherman says:

 

§  Stick to a maximum of three layers

 

§  Wear lightweight pieces under chunky knits and wools.

§  Don’t layer chunky clothes over other chunky pieces. Keep your look slim by picking lightweight fabrics, like cotton jersey, to wear underneath. That way you can add color and warmth without bulk.

 

§  Show those layers! Make sure that the length of the clothing varies in length (otherwise you just appear bulky)

 

§  No short-sleeved tee’s over a long-sleeved tee. I don’t care if that look was “in” back in high school. It wasn’t cute then and isn’t cute now!

§  Mix your prints! A cute cardigan over printed tank tops is a great way to incorporate three trends into one, without being overwhelming.

 

§  Don’t wear two garments with the same style. If you are layering a ruffled shirt with a sweater, avoid using a sweater which also has ruffles.

So that’s it ladies. Master the art of layering and to always be chic but comfortable when going to school, work, or play. Because let’s face it the lady down the street who goes out in the khaki shorts, USC sweatshirt, sports socks, and sandals in February always looks a bit ridiculous.

 

~Shantell Malachi

Director, LBDC Richmond Chapter

Little Black Dress, Oh Let Me Count The Ways...

How can I get the most use out of my Little Black Dress?
I look for a theme to all my styles and I love to switch it up.  This keeps your look fresh even if it’s the same dress you wore at the last event.

Classic
Wear your diamonds (real or fake) girls!  Necklace, Earrings, Bracelet, Rings, Hair Pins, you name it you can’t go wrong.  Depending on your taste you can wear dainty or go big. Grab your black high heels and purse and go meet the girls!

Preppy
Pick out your favorite cardigan and tie it over your shoulders or one of my favorite things to do is wear it over the dress with a skinny belt.  Also many short blazer’s look great with a LBD. Shop your local goodwill for some great deals!  Wear your favorite pearls, headband, and colored tights.

Retro
You take a classic black dress, pin your hair up, put your red lipstick on and add your favorite high and I mean HIGH heels. You’re good to go!

Boho-Chic
Grab your favorite LARGE colored purse, boots, and long necklace, put your hair in a bun and you’ve just made a statement!

Glam
Fur or feather’s make anything glam! Fur collars have been popular this winter as well as vest and coats. Feather’s are great as earring’s or hair accessories that totally transform your look. Don’t forget your rhinestone or colored high heels!  

What's YOUR favorite way to jazz up the LBD? Tell us in the comments below! 

-Suzy A. Hicks

Co Director, Columbus Chapter