To Sheath or Not to Sheath...

... That is the question.

So what exactly is a sheath dress? Well, it's typically a dress that is fitted and worn close to the body, although some versions are more voluminous. It can be belted or unbelted, and dressed up or dressed down.

The August 2010 issue of Real Simple features some tips in choosing the right sheath dress to fit your shape:

If you have a TUMMY: avoid lightweight of slinky fabrics; choose dresses with ruching (gathered fabric) that visually flattens the stomach.

If you have an HOURGLASS FIGURE: avoid stiff or heavy fabrics like tweed; wear form-fitting dresses with waist-enhancing seams.

If you have FULL HIPS & THIGHS: avoid wrist-length sleeves; choose dresses with volume.

If you have a STRAIGHT FIGURE: avoid thin waistbands; choose dresses with a fitted bodice and darts in the seaming.

So what are you waiting for? It's time to rock the Sheath dress.

Hollywood Fashion

I don't know about you, but I get a lot of my style ideas from movies. Over the years I've been inspired by Diane Keaton's vests  in "Annie Hall"; Meg Ryan's turtlenecks in "You've Got Mail"; Jennifer Aniston's scarves in "Love Happens"; and Tina Fey's shirt dress in "Baby Mama." 

Marie Claire online features amazing photos of iconic film fashion, from classic stars of the silver screen such as Vivien Leigh, Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn to modern stars like Molly Ringwald, Winona Ryder and Uma Thurmond. Check it out:

http://www.marieclaire.com/fashion/trends/articles/iconic-movie-fashion

Hold Tight!

Tights and leggings seem to never go out of style. And the weird thing is that EVERYBODY wears them! Babies, little girls, teens, career women, moms, even grandmothers! Oh, and let's not forget dancers (male and female).

I like to wear them with long skirts and boots for extra warmth in cold climates, but they're also nice with over-sized sweaters and shirts. Think "Flashdance." When you're wearing tights, it's all about the shoes and the colors in your outfit.

And unless you're Lady GaGa, you probably won't need a pair in Pepto Bismol pink.

Party Dress?

This week on "Project Runway," the designers had to create a look with items found at a party store. The winner? Andy! He created a dress out of ribbon. That's it! Just ribbon! Unbelievable! If he can do this with a pile of ribbon, what can he do with real fabric!!!

Big White Shirt

So when is the best time to wear a big white button up shirt? Summer, of course!

No, I'm not talking about Jerry Seinfeld's frilly pirate shirt. We want classic. We want chic. We want BIG!

A big white shirt can be a stylish cover up at the beach over a swimsuit. Or wear it with blue jeans for a casual weekend barbeque. You can even dress it up with a skirt, heels, a funky belt and jewelry for a night on the town. If you can't find a big white shirt in the ladies department, there's nothing wrong with venturing into men's wear. Just don't let the sales clerk talk you into a sock garter.

Funky T-Shirts

A fashion staple in any wardrobe is the versatile t-shirt. Dress it up with a vest, scarf or blazer, or just wear it with your favorite jeans. If you're in a funky mood, try a t-shirt with a message to tell the world who you are and what's on your mind. Check out the some slogans:

Just add water.

Come to the Dark Side. We have cookies.

My mother is a travel agent for guilt trips.

I'm blogging this.

I used to be schizophrenic but I'm fine now.

No sense in being pessimistic. It wouldn't work anyway.

Upon the advice of my attorney, my shirt bears no message at this time.

The Pixie

Dare to rock the doo! Getting a pixie haircut is a courageous move, but the pay-off is a dramatic, edgy look. Inspired by the Beatles and Twiggy in the 1960s, the pixie features short, wispy layers and bangs that can either by long, short or textured. Pixies can be retro or totally modern and look absolutely amazing with turtlenecks or long scarves. Pixie celebs include Pink, Winona Ryder, Katie Holmes, Jamie Lee Curtis, Julie Andrews, Liza Minnelli and Mia Farrow.

Bite the bullet and get a Pixie...if you dare!

Regards, Carly