Friday 9 March 2012

Levi’s launches Colour Ankle Skinny Jeans on Holi & Woman’s Day

This has to be the most beautiful coincidence of the year, the colorful festival and the celebration of a day about the most colorful creation of God, Woman. Have lots of fun guys and do take care.
On the occasion of Holi & Woman’s Day Levi’s has introduced its line of Colour Ankle Skinny Jeans. The collection is a riot of fresh and bright colours ranging from Bright Indigo to Tomato red, to Sunset coral.


Unlike other denim brands, Levi’s® Curve ID utilizes a unique, customized fit system focusing on a woman’s shape and proportions, not her size. The Levi’s® brand designers studied body scans of more than 60,000 women to develop custom fits based on the difference between the measurement of a woman’s hip and seat – the greater the difference, the more curvy the body – and include:
Slight Curve – designed to celebrate straight figures
Slight Curve is designed to define a woman’s waist, while accentuating her curves. If jeans fit in the hips and thighs but are too tight in the waist, a woman should try the Slight Curve.
Demi Curve – designed to fit even proportions
Demi Curve is designed to flatter a woman’s waist, while smoothing her shape. If jeans usually fit in the waist, but don’t flatter the figure, a woman should try the Demi Curve.
Bold Curve – designed to honor genuine curves
Bold Curve is designed to hug the waist, without gapping or pulling. If jeans fit in the hips and thighs, but gape in the back, a woman should try the Bold Curve.

Tuesday 6 March 2012

How To Develop a Signature Style

Since I have a fashion background, Saleema asked me how I’ve developed my personal style, and what exactly defines ones personal style. The conversation got me thinking and I wanted to share my insights with you.

1. How do I define my personal style and am I happy with it?

I truly believe that my personal style began developing itself at a very young age. I was one of those girls that loved to create unique outfits, play dress up with my friends (boys and girls) and rummaged through my mom’s closet (which I still do to this day). I was voted best dressed in high school and majored in fashion in college–fashion was and is in my blood.
Way back when, I identified elements of fashion that spoke to me, made me feel pretty, comfortable and stylish. Those same elements define my style today and give me that same sense of self-confidence and personal identity it did when I was 5.
  • Classic with an artistic flair–I follow fashion trends very closely but know that classic styles, silhouettes and details work best for me. I love combining a pair of jeans with a stylish blazer or long sweater coat. Or, dressing up a pair of black pants with a bright cardigan or menswear inspired shirt.


  • Color–Bright, bold colors are one of my signature touches. I know that color, versus neutrals look good on me and more importantly bold colors make me feel good, which is reflected in how I carry myself and interact with other. A great way to identify a fashion statement that works for you is to listen to what other have to say. It never fails that when I wear red, coral, kelly green or canary yellow, I get compliments from others.




    • Jewelry–My outfit does not feel complete without jewelry. For me, jewelry is the icing on the cake and is the way that I bring a look together. I use jewelry to make a statement and gravitate towards classic silver pieces, big earrings, bold necklaces and diamonds (it’s my birthstone after all). If you see me without any jewelry on, chances are I’m not feeling well.
    • Handbags–A girl can never have too many. As with jewelry, a handbag to me completes an outfit. While handbags are functional, I don’t look at them that way. To me, a handbag it a true style statement and should compliment an outfit first and be a storage vehicle second. On those occasions when I am wearing black or neutrals, I carry a handbag with color or shimmer to convey my personality.

    2. What are the components of great personal style?

      To me, great personal style is all about knowing yourself.
    • Knowing who you are–knowing what you like and don’t like is key to defining your personal style. It’s not about trying to look like someone else, but about creating your own style, one that allows you to look your best, always.

    * Knowing and loving your body–Whenever I’m at the mall I see loads of people wearing things that just aren’t right for them. Wearing clothes that don’t fit or flatter your body is the quickest way to downgrade your personal style. Take a day at the mall and try on lots of clothes. Recognize what cuts and styles enhance your body and make you feel good. These are the elements that will help you create your personal style.
    • Knowing how to play up your best attributes–It’s true, shorter people (me) really should not wear cropped pants, and those of us with a well endowed chest should gravitate towards scoop necks and v-necks because they are more flattering on our neckline. As you try on clothes, recognize which styles make you look taller, enhance your arms or legs and camouflage the areas you don’t like. Clothes that look good on you, do make you feel good.

    • Creating a signature look–Audrey, Michelle, Hillary, Jackie and my design idol Sarah Richardson all have signature looks. It could be a classic white shirt, a pattern or a brand that helps you define your personal style. Pick and item or two, and make it apart of fashion identity.

    3. How does one go about creating a personal style for themselves?

    • Find a role model–Look around… TV, magazines, friends and identify people whose fashion style you admire. Your goal is not to copy them, but be inspired by their personal style.
    • Shop and Try on–If you ever watch What Not To Wear on tv, Clinton and Staci spend countless hours with the client trying things on. This really is the best way to find and understand what fashions look best on you. If you’re afraid of going it alone, most of the major department stores have a personal shopper department where someone will work with you, to create your wardrobe.


  • Mix high-end with low-end–When it comes to shopping, I am not a brand snob. I buy items because they work for me, not because of the label or the price. I love to invest in classic pieces and then round out my wardrobe with inexpensive stylish finds. Some of my favorite pieces have come from Old Navy, TJ Maxx, Koh’s and the Nordstrom sale rack. Your really dont’ have to invest a lot of money to create a great wardrobe.




    • Invest in basics–Just about every fashion personality out there has a list of wardrobe basics every girl needs. My list of basics includes the following:
    Black Pants–When I find a great fitting pair of black pants, I sometimes by two pair. I also try to have several silhouettes of pants: wider leg, slimmer fit.
    Cardigans–As an essential wardrobe element, cardigans are great because they can be worn year round, can be dressed up or down, and are figure flattering on just about everyone. Plus, I’m always cold.
    Jeans–Ok, I admit shopping for jeans is not fun, but when it comes to jeans, finding a great fit is critical. I vote for darker washes and straight legs. And, I think you should own a “tall” pair for heels, and a “short” pair for flats.
    Classic White Shirt–Nothing is more versatile than a white shirt. Try building a wardrobe with several different styles.
    Your Favorite Colors–Your wardrobe should definitely include pieces in the colors you love. Guaranteed to make you feel good.
    Black Pumps–Every girl needs a great pair of go-to black pumps–kitten heel and a higher heel. I have a very narrow foot and slip-on shoes rarely fit me, so I tend to go for a black shoe with a slingback.
    Black Pencil Skirt–While every girl needs a LBD in their closet, I think a black pencil skirts is another essential. It’s versatile, figure flattering and never goes out of style.
    • Personalize with accessories–Think of accessories as the ribbon on the package. If you love gold jewelry, then make it apart of every outfit you wear. If you love scarves, then build a great collection of scarves. If shoes are your thing, then wear a killer pair every time your step out.
    • Become Known for something-One of my old sales reps loved patterned ballet flats. Every time you’d see her, your eyes would gravitate towards the floor to check out her shoes. Find a fashion element that you can become known for and make it apart of your signature style.
    • Tailor Your Clothing–I don’t like spending money on tailoring, but it really is the best way to get the best fit from your clothes. And, at 5″2 I really don’t have a choice!
    • Create a Look Book–Fashion stylist Lloyd Boston is known for creating look books for his clients. Once he creates a wardrobe for someone, he takes photos of the pieces and outfit combinations and puts them in a book. The book becomes a reference tool when you find yourself saying “I have nothing to wear”. Try making a look book for yourself, not only a styling tool, but also as a guide to help you shop and build your wardrobe.
    • Organize and prettify your closet–Nothing is more daunting than walking into a unorganized and not-so pretty closet. I have all my shoes in bins with photos on the outside and I recently switched all my clear plastic hangers to those slimline black hangers. They made my closet look better and gave me more room. Spend an afternoon getting your closet together, making it someplace you enjoy to visit.

    So there you have it, my take on personal style… how to define it, how to create it and how to make it your own!

    Now, let’s go shopping!

    Monday 5 March 2012

    The Do's And Don'ts of Wearing a Bra

    Peek-a-boo bra staps, too-tight strapless styles, neon colors under sheer tops — these are the things these celebs should have avoided when choosing a bra! Thankfully, a few of them also got it right. Check out these pics to see how you should (and should not!) wear your bra.                          

        

    Jessica Lowndes

    DON'T: Wear a bra under a very sheer lace shirt. A tank or cropped cami looks much cuter

    Emma Watson

    DO: Wear a strapless bra that blends with the pattern if you're going to wear lace.















    Shenae Grimes

    DON'T: Wear a regular strap bra with a racer-back or halter top. Invest in a good convertible bra that will work with all styles!

       

    Ashley Benson

    DO: Hide your bra straps when wearing halter tops.

              

    Demi Lovato

    DON'T: Suffocate yourself with a too-small bra

    Vanessa Hudgens

    DO: Wear special bras that hook around your waist for backless dresses.

    Annalynne McCord

    DON'T: Wear a full coverage bra with a low-cut shirt
     

    Selena Gomez

    DO: Use stick-on cups or special bras for deep-V's when wearing plunging necklines.
     

    Ashley Tisdale

    DON'T: Wear a white bra under a sheer top. Nude is always the best way to go if you're unsure!
     

    Beyonce

    DO: Wear a seamless bra under silky fabrics that cling to you.
     

    Ariana Grande

    DON'T: Wear a lace bra with a light, fitted tank — the pattern will show right through.
     

    Blake Lively

    DO: Wear a nude bodysuit or liner under a dress with lots of opportunities for wardrobe malfunctions!
     

    Jojo

    DON'T: Wear a bra that shows through your armholes. Try a Try a cami bra instead, another tank top, or opt for stick-on cups!
     

    Lauren Conrad

    DO: Wear a strapless push-up bra (that's not too tight!) with a strapless dress like Lauren
     

    Snooki

    DON'T: Wear a heavily padded pushup bra if you're well endowed! It's total overkill, and looks like you're about to fall out of your dress.
     

    Shay Mitchell

    DO: Invest in double-stick tape to keep a strapless dress and bra neatly in place.
     
     
     
     

    Amanda Seyfried

    DON'T: Wear a v-neck top that dips down below your intimates. It isn't cute, and makes your shirt look too big!
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    Jennifer Hudson

    DON'T: Wear skin tight white dresses! Okay, maybe that's unreasonable, but it's nearly impossible to make this look totally perfect, no matter what bra you wear.
     
     

    Taylor Swift

    DO: Make sure everything's in place when you're wearing a plunging neckline like Taylor. You don't want any straps peeking out!
     
     

     
     
     

    Brooke Hogan

    DON'T: Forget to look in the mirror before leaving the house! Brooke needs better coverage ASAP!


    Jessica Simpson

    DON'T: Let your bra lines show through your dress.


    Fergie

    DO: Wear individual, stick-on cups if you're wearing a revealing dress, so you won't see your bra in the back or on the sides!






    Fergie

    DO: Wear individual, stick-on cups if you're wearing a revealing dress, so you won't see your bra in the back or on the sides!


    Miley Cyrus

    DO: Choose to go bra-less (if you're petite) or wear stick-on's (if you're more enhanced) when going backless.

    Audrina Patridge

    DON'T: Wear a white bra under sheer, dark fabrics! Even if you can't see it, it will show up in pictures!


    Hilary Duff

    DO: Wear a dress with a built-in bra, not a bra and a strapless dress.







    Friday 2 March 2012

    Quirky Color Combos To Try Now

    This article is from refinery29.com.

    Let's face it: Sometimes the old everyday black and beige or gray and blue combos can be a whole lotta boring. With bold color-blocking continuing to be a strong trend for spring and summer, we decided to choose a few unorthodox color combos for spring that pushed the fashion envelope just enough. From CĂ©line's gorgeous oxblood leather and cornflower blue to Marc Jacobs' sunny satiny pink and cool melon, these punchy pairings signal a new season of dress-up is here...finally!
    Royal blue and crimson look best when worn in bright blocks of color. Try mixing them in a print, like this Thakoon dress, too

    Above, from left: Thakoon fall '11, image via Style.com; Mara Hoffman Red Picnic Dress, $250, available at Bonadrag; YSL Opal Lapis, $290, available at CultStatus; +J Tailored Blazer, $43.87, available at Uniqlo stores.

    Burnt Orange and Khaki—We loved how these nubby burnt orange pants looked with a structured camel coat. Take this look into spring with a brushed silk dress and a lightweight trench

    Above, from left:Burberry fall '11, image via Style.com; AllDressedUp Silk Crepe Dress, $230.79, available at The Outnet; Betsey Johnson Women's Rectangle Sunglasses, $55, available at Endless; Cooperative Trench Coat, $49.95, available at Urban Outfitters.


    Orange and Fuchsia —The trick to making this look work is to choose rich materials. A silk, glossy leather, or shantung keep the combo from making you look like you shop in the Juniors' department.

    Above, from left:Marc Jacobs fall '11 ad; Madewell Silk Safari Shirt, $98, available at Madewell; Adam Tie-Front Skirt, $154.26, available at The Outnet; ModCloth Upwardly Mobile Satchel, $134.99, available at ModCloth.

    Pink and Caribbean Green—If there's ever a time to mix your neons, it's now. Acid pinks and greens can be great friends, but remember to anchor it with black or another neutral.

    Above, from left:Jil Sander fall '11, image via Style.com; Forever21 Cuffed Linen Shorts, $15.80, available at Forever21; Wildfox Leopard Sweater, $107, available at Boutique To You.

    Red Orange and Yolk Yellow‐We love primary colors with a jewel-tone twist. This red orange and yolk yellow combo just begs for small accents of royal blue and forest green, like in this Bally ad

    Above, from left:Bally spring '11 ad; Dona Monroe Curved Hem Skirt, $270, available at Steven Alan; ArynK Daffodil Silk Top, $95, available at Nastygal; Zara Fashion City Bag, $149, available at Zara.

    Above, from left:Celine spring '11, image via Style.com;Topshop Berry Leather Shorts, $110, available at Topshop; Alexander Wang Rocco Brick Bag, $1,077, available at Montaigne Market; McQ Silk-Blend Tuxedo Shirt, $280, available at The Outnet.

    Oxblood and Cornflower—This pairing makes us weak at our knees! A deep, rich leather oxblood piece just begs for a lively cornflower blue.