Finding the Right Bra for You

If you want to look your best, it is important that your clothes fit properly. You've probably heard the statistics - it's estimated that up to 85% of women are wearing the wrong size bra. That's an astounding number, but not so surprising when you look at what we know and don't know about bras. Things like:

• Most of us have never been professionally fitted for a bra
• Most mass-market retailers don't sell bras in a cup size larger than a DD so we make do with what's available, even if we need a larger cup size
• Bra sizing and the relationship between band size and cup size is confusing and never adequately explained
• What we know about bras and how they should fit came from our mothers, who probably had never been professionally fitted and who learned from their moms, who had never been professionally fitted, and so on.

The Big Girls Bras Guide to Finding the Right Bra   has written a guide for you, so you can finally find the right bra. So you never again have to settle for an almost right bra. They also have a great selection of bras and swimwear.

Lady Lynn's Gift Boutique

Budget Savy Divas

  Before you go shopping, here are a few things I would like for you to consider. First of all, slow down :). If you are like me once you get an idea in your head you are ready to act upon it. In stores this is called impulse shopping and they like nothing better than an impulse buyer.

  As you get ideas for new outfits, keep in mind that you will only be buying items in your personal seasonal colors and basic colors. If you stick to that rule, after a while you will see how they will start matching up and compliment your current wardrobe. Remember to make sure what you are purchasing is flattering to your figure and style. Bring along a best friend for a second opinion.

 

 

  Before you leave the house, decide what you are looking for. Browsing fashion magazines, the internet and online boutiques are great places to begin. Once you have a plan, don't become overwhelmed in the stores. Stick to your plan. Sure, I agree it is not easy. With the lure of sales, endless promotions and discounts, it makes it tempting to run out a buy on sale. I have purchased clothes because of the discounts in the past and most of them were only worn a couple of times before I realized that they were not becoming on me. I found that buying more solids is easier on my budget because it makes putting outfit together a snap.

  You also want to consider how much room you have in your closet. Next post will be filled with storage ideas and tips to maximize you space and properly care for you clothes and accessories. Until then, enjoy window shopping!

Lady Lynn's Gift Boutique

 

 

12 Fall & Winter Trends: Integrate Style Trends into your Wardrobe

Each season women are perplexed by new trends they see in the stores and magazines. Professional women are looking for an easy way to update their look by adding these new ideas. Many women are not sure what to buy.

This fall season sees a return of the sophisticated elegant looks from the 1940’s—bold, shouldered suits and the classic touch of a hat and gloves worn with a tailored coat. When you shop this season follow these 12 trends. Be sure to find the trends that resonate with your signature style to update your fall wardrobe.
1) Cozi Cardi’
The cardigan is the new alternative to the jacket. Styles vary from big chunky knits to long sweater coats. One of the hottest looks of the season is the cardigan worn with a belt, a tailored shirt and dress pants for a smart business casual ensemble.
2) Retro Suit
The suit trend is about curves with the waistline accentuated by belts. Pinstripe suits return. Their vertical lines make you appear slender and tall. Be prepared: suits with strong shoulders reminiscent of the 40’s are making a comeback.
3) Shine On
Shine returns with striking metallic hues—gunmetal, titanium, platinum, bronze, copper, and old antique gold. Fabrics with sheen and shimmer can be worn day or night. Choose sequins and radiant satins to add sparkle to your holiday gala apparel.
4) Graphic Designs
Geometric prints and color blocking continue to be high fashion for blouses, dresses, and coats. Add one or two of these prints to your wardrobe, but be cautious. One geo print goes a long way!
5) Old Country Fabrics
Texture in fabrics reappears this season. Retro looks show old country fabrics—tweeds, hound’s-tooth, tartan plaid and herringbone.
6) It’s About Hue
Color is back. This season if you wear black, wear it with colors like burgundy, claret or red. Grey is another classic color for fall. It looks fabulous when worn with black to soften the look. Green is the hot color of the season, in hues from turquoise, kelly, forest, and teal.
7) Born to Be Wild!
Exotic animal prints and skins appear in clothing, handbags, belts, bracelet cuffs, and shoes. Use an animal print to accent a neutral suit to look stylish and chic. Remember to only wear one animal print at a time.
8) Zipped Up
Zippers are the hardware of the season. Zippers will be on everything—clothing, handbags, shoes, and gloves.
9) Belt Driven
The wide belt is the hottest accessory for fall. These big belts come in an array of styles from quilted, colored leather obi belts, and leather belts trimmed with multiple buckles. This must-have of the season is a great accessory to dress up a look and create an hourglass shape.
10) Get a Patent
Patent leather is the new accent trim on jackets, tops, dresses, and coats. This high gloss leather is also on accessories like handbags, belts, watches, and shoes.
11) Arm Glam
Everyone will be gazing at your arms this fall. So, show off your bangles. Whether you feel comfortable wearing several bangles, large cuff bracelets, or a pair of leather gloves—your arms have the attention. Gloves make a return. They are beautifully detailed with buttons and patent leather trims.
12) Step Above
Shoes for the season include colorful, shiny, metallic, and textured leathers. Key styles are wedges, crocodile heels, stilettos, ankle boots, and tall boots.

On your next shopping trip, try on a few of these latest trends to see which ones work for you. By incorporating these trends, all appropriate for all ages, you will look more modern and receive multiple compliments on your updated stylish image.

Sarah Hathorn is a certified image consultant, speaker and corporate image advisor. Illustra Image Consulting works with individual men and women who wish to update their fashion and professional presence. The company also provides corporate image services to organizations that wish to enhance their corporate brand within the marketplace.
Illustra Image Consulting – Perception is Reality!Copyright © 2007, Sarah Hathorn, AICI, Certified Image Consultant678–528-1239, http://sarah@illustraconsulting.comThis article may be reproduced only in it’s entirety, including the above bio.