Nine Fashion Tips for '09
Nobody wants to be a walking fashion faux pas, so I've devised a list of nine things to avoid in 2009. These are common, everyday missteps that I see and thought it would be helpful to share. This should help you start the new year out right!
Jeans with a Jean Jacket
I've talked about "mom jeans" and light-colored jeans, but there is another faux pas to steer clear of with denim - wearing a jean jacket with jeans. This does not mean that you can't wear a dark jean jacket with white jeans or vise versa, but it is a crime to wear a jean jacket and jeans that are the same color. This is just too much denim for the eyes. We all love denim, but not this much!
Turtleneck with a Necklace
The next faux pas, I have talked about before, but wanted to bring it up again - a necklace with a turtleneck. A long necklace, such as one past the bust line, can be worn with a turtleneck, but otherwise, no necklace, (or pin for that matter), should be worn. A turtleneck actually highlights the neck, and it's the perfect opportunity to wear longer earnings or some bracelets. Nothing says dowdy like a necklace on top of a turtleneck.
Too Many Accessories
And speaking of jewelry, some women tend to over-accessorize (yes, there is such a thing). The general rule is, no more than 5 pieces. Therefore, a pair of earnings, a necklace, a watch and a ring would be 4 pieces - one more and that would be it. Accessorizing is how you bring an outfit together, but too many and it just becomes distracting.
Chain Belts
Belts have always been a fun and stylish way to accessorize, but chain belts are extremely dated. These were popular in the 90s, and are still being sold, but now they only come off as tacky and really aren't very flattering. Small, skinny belts are big for Spring, but remember to keep everything in proportion to your body. A one to two inch wide belt is the best. However, you can choose to exclude belts completely if they don't work for you!
Too Many Textures
Another faux pas that I see a lot is when women mix too many textures. For example, a very common occurrence is a ribbed turtleneck with a tweed or textured blazer. The reason this is a fashion faux pas is because too many textures makes your appearance look "all over the place"; again no clear focus. Remember, your accessories may also have a texture, such as a pair of patent leather heels or an animal skin bag, so take these into consideration as well. If you question if it is too much, it usually is.
Silhouette
The next faux pas has to do with silhouette and proportion. By this I mean, if you wear an A-line, circle or a full skirt then it needs to be paired with something fitted on top. Basically, you can't do 'flowy' on top of 'flowy'. If you have a fuller top, then you must wear a fitted bottom and vise versa. However, you can do fitted on top of fitted, but too many loose things and you actually end up looking bigger - and sloppy. This top needs to be worn with a pair of trousers or a fitted skirt. An A-line skirt would give the whole outfit too much volumn. Remember, in the words of Tim Gunn, it's all about proportion, fit and silhouette.
Uggs
Now this next faux pas, I really despise, but must say that I see it on all ages - Uggs worn with skirts. Ugh! In general, I do not like Uggs. They are not flattering and are really not a boot for the snow. Yes, they are lined and will keep your feet warm, but they are not meant to tromp around in the snow and salt. So they are even more grotesque when worn with skirts. Tall boots, to the knee, are best with skirts, but it needs to be a fitted and sleeker style than furry boots. Sorry, but these are a definite 'no'. I love these patent leather boots as they have a bit of height with the wedge and a great pointy toe, which will extend the line of the leg. The create a much sleeker look than chunky Uggs.
Brown with Black
Now this next faux pas isn't a total fashion blunder, but I put it on this list because in order to pull this off correctly, you really have to know what you are doing: wearing black and brown together. I have seen celebrities pull this look off, ie, Katie Holmes once wore a black t-shirt, black pants, brown boots and a brown leather jacket and it looked great, but the problem is, there are so many different shades of browns...and blacks. There is a fine line as to looking stupid, like you got dressed in the dark and looking chic. Therefore, do not attempt this at home. Keep black with black and brown with brown.
Not Working with a Stylist
Lastly, it is a faux pas not to work with a professional. A stylist like myself can help you pull together different outfits from what you already own, and I can make shopping easy and fun. It's a perfect start to the new year and a more stylish you!