J9 Tips

Dressing For Pear Shape Body Types

by J9 STYLE • 15 May, 2013 • 4 Comments

A-shaped. Hippy. Triangle. Too Much Booty in the Pants. There are many terms to define the pear-shaped figure. As a pear-shaped gal myself, I’ve heard them all. It basically means that you tend to gain weight on the lower half of your body right around the hips and ba-donk-a-donk (yes, I wrote that). While we may have narrow shoulders and a slim waist, we can’t help but make an exit.

Let’s face it, the fashion world has not been kind to our feminine frames recently. With skinny jeans, bold color pants and peplum silhouettes (don’t even get me started on print skinny jeans), it seems fashion designers have forgotten about us.

But don’t fret, I’ve been navigating these treacherous fashion waters for some time and I have some tips and tools to share.

Pear-Shaped: Green Light

Pear-shaped girls always have the green light to wear flare and boot cut jeans. For the most flattering look, select dark washes and pair them with bold and print tops to draw the attention upward. Neutral heels and wedges add height and make up you appear longer and leaner.

It’s probably no surprise that A-line dresses and skirts are the most flattering. If you want to rock a pencil skirt, choose one that has a slight flare (like the navy skirt in the middle).

Pear-Shaped: Yellow Light

Pear-shaped ladies are not destined to wear flare jeans and A-line skirts all the time. We can rock some trends too with some caution. If you want to try the color pant trend, opt for cropped. A full flare color pant can border on the clown side and not flatter your figure. Also, if you want to try peplum, wear the trend as a shirt rather than skirt or dress.

We can also wear skinny jeans! I know many pear-shaped girls who refuse to do so, but if you select a dark shade and pair it with a busy top, you can totally rock them! Skinny jeans do accentuate the hips, so be sure to wear them with confidence!

A horizontal striped skirt is usually a bona fide no-no for pear shapes. However, if you wear the print with an A-line silhouette and pair it with a great statement necklace, this trend can be conquered!

Pear-Shaped: Red Light

Although the trends above are super cute, pear-shaped girls must tread lightly. Printed, skinny bottoms as well as peplum dresses draw all the attention to the hip and bum areas. On pear-shaped figures, it’s a lot going on. If you do decide to try these, make sure the items fit well and that the rest of the look is simple.

The most important asset (pun intended) for a pear-shaped girl to have is confidence. Be proud of your feminine figure and flaunt what you got! Plus, we’re in good company. Here are some other fabulous and gorgeous pear shaped ladies:

Kristen Davis, Michelle Trachtenberg, Alicia Keys, Jennifer Love Hewitt

Are you pear-shaped? What style tips can you share?

How to Dress for Casual Friday at the Office

by J9 STYLE • 28 February, 2013 • 9 Comments

It’s been a while since I’ve posted. Grad school, work travel and a family emergency have kept me away from blogging. I have lots of post ideas swirling in my head along with many outfit and travel photos to share with you.

In the meantime, here is a post I wrote for one of my grad classes (gotta love synergy and multi-tasking). I’ll be back to checking out blogs soon!

While casual Friday is usually the favorite day of the week, it often misused as a way to dress a little too casually for the office. Every office culture is different, but it’s most beneficial to your career to always be seen looking your best. You never know when you will be called in to an executive’s office.

Here are five simple steps to create a stylish, but professional casual Friday look that will impress.

1. Choose well-fitting jeans.

Since it’s the only day you can wear jeans, opt for them. Make sure the jeans are flattering and have no stains or tears. Choose a pair of boot cut jeans with a dark wash and avoid bold color jeans, print jeans and skinny jeans.

2. Add a collared shirt or blouse.

Choose a shirt that you would wear to the office any other day. You can experiment with different colors and prints with the shirt as long as it is professional.

3. Pair the shirt and jeans with a tailored blazer.

Nothing looks more professional than a blazer. Make sure the jacket fits well and have fun with some color.

4. Add your favorite heels.

Casual Friday is not a day to wear casual shoes like sandals and sneakers. Pick a pair of heels that you would wear any other day in the office. Flats are appropriate too.

5. Accessorize the outfit.

Add your favorite jewelry and purse to complete the look.

What are your tips for casual Friday? Miss you all!

I’m Watch: Where Technology Meets Fashion

by J9 STYLE • 16 January, 2013 • 5 Comments

I love big watches, so I was excited to try the new I’m Watch smart watch. Both functional and fashionable, the I’m Watch has all the capabilities of a smart phone but is designed in a stylish watch.

From my new I’m Watch I can make calls, check email, listen to music and access my social networking sites including facebook, Twitter and Instagram. I can also text, check the news and weather, and download apps. I was able to synchronize my I’m Watch with my smartphone to transfer all the important data. If my smart phone rings, I can answer it with my I’m Watch!

The best part about this smart watch is that all the digital features are packaged in a chic and trendy design. The I’m Watch complements many types of outfits. I accessorized my outfit for the office with my new watch. I received many compliments about the watch as it gave my professional outfits a modern edge.

The I’m Watch is also a perfect accessory to any work out outfit. You can access your music (you can plug headphones into the watch) and apps while looking stylish and sporty. I wore my I’m Watch along with my new activity pants on a run recently. It was so much easier to run without holding my smart phone. I was able to run with ease and style.

The I’m Watch comes in seven different colors including black, white, red, blue, green, yellow and pink. If you want real luxury, the I’m Watch also offers the Jewel collection featuring silver, various shades of gold and even diamonds.

I’m Watch is truly a successful combination of technology and fashion. It’s tech fashion!

Be sure to visit I’m Watch to check out more of this innovative accessory’s features and designs!

How would you style the I’m Watch?

Color of 2013: Emerald

by J9 STYLE • 14 January, 2013 • 5 Comments

Pantone has declared that emerald is the color of 2013. This year is also when Oz The Great and Powerful movie featuring the Emerald City comes out. Coincidence? I think not.

Emerald has always been my favorite jewel tone, so I am excited that many designers and fashion retailers will be incorporating this color in their collections. It gives off a regal and refined look and pairs well with other jewel tones (except ruby – too Christmas-y).

Here are some affordable ways to wear the emerald trend this year.

Satchel ($68), Necklace ($42), Scarf ($25), Flats ($21), Skirt ($45), Blazer ($32), Jeans ($70), Pumps ($28)

Will you be wearing emerald this year? Which item is your favorite?

eShakti Review: Creative Designs with Custom Fits

by J9 STYLE • 10 January, 2013 • 4 Comments

As a pear-shaped gal, I always have a challenging time finding a dress that fits perfectly. I usually have to buy a certain size and take the dress to a tailor to have the waist and chest taken in. I can’t tell you how many dresses I’ve passed up buying because of this time-consuming and costly nuisance.

So when eShakti contacted me to try their clothes, I was super excited. eShakti is an online boutique that designs fabulous dresses, skirts, blouses and jackets, but lets you customize the fit to flatter your unique figure.

When I saw this belted poplin dress with polka dots and a striped belt, I had to have it. I entered my measurements (it helps to have someone help you measure certain areas) along with some other customizations like hemline and sleeve length. A few days later, the custom-sized dress was delivered to my doorstep.

Gotta love a dress with pockets!

Another element I love about this online boutique is the array of classic and flattering patterns and silhouettes they offer. It is the perfect place to stock up on outfits for work or special occasions. They update their pieces often, so be sure to check the website on a regular basis.

Have you worn anything from eShakti before? Do you have to tailor your clothes sometimes to fit your body type?

Hidden Fashion Gem: Beverly Hills Jewelry

by J9 STYLE • 17 December, 2012 • 3 Comments

I love discovering new places to find great deals on fashion and vintage clothing. I recently found a unique collectible store Beverly Hills Jewelry in Winter Garden, Fla. While they are known for carrying fine jewelry and antiques, they are also a hidden gem for fashion – especially designer labels.

Names like Jimmy Choo, Manolo Blahnik, Chanel and Christian Louboutin are actually attainable at Beverly Hills. Check out some of the items I spotted there:

chanelinsude

This Chanel tweed suit has only been worn once and still has the original tags. It was originally $10,000 (you read that right- $10,000). It is selling for $799. That is over a 90% discount! The size is 46 (which is about a 10 or 12 US size).

escadeinside

I also found this Escada suit that sold for $1,200 in stores for only $250! Perfect ensemble for Christmas.

After perusing the clothes, I wondered over to the purse section where I found this lovely Versace purse which was in amazing condition.

versacepurseinside

I was so tempted to but this like new Marc Jacobs purse for only $85!

marcjacobsinside

marcjacobsinside2

One thing I love about vintage is the stories behind the clothes and accessories. My favorite item was this fabulous Dior hat. This hat was custom-made (and worn only once) for the Kentucky Derby. I think It looks good on me.

Diorhat
j9withhat

Besides designer labels, Beverly Hills also carries gently used and new clothes from many popular retail stores. I scored this brand-new Gap coat for $25 and brand-new Gap jeans for $15!

If you live in the Central Florida area, be sure to stop by Beverly Hills Jewelry for great fashion deals and unique gifts. If you don’t live in the area, but still want to purchase one of these items, call them at 407-877-5626 and they will ship to your house.

Do you have a hidden fashion gem in your area?

WE by Whitney Eve at Apricot Lane

by J9 STYLE • 3 December, 2012 • 8 Comments

Ever since she interned with Lauren Conrad on The Hills, I’ve been a big fan of Whitney Port and her style. I watched her on The City when she launched her first collection. When Apricot Lane Boutique contacted me to check out their exclusive styles from the new line WE by Whitney Eve, of course I responded yes.

As soon as I saw the pieces, I fell instantly in love with the California/New York City girl blended vibe they gave off. I also love that Whitney stayed true to her sweet girl style with playful, but practical pieces. I had a blast trying on some of the items!

WE by Whitney Eve

wearing the LOVE sweater and WILLIE skirt

Whitney wearing her WILLIE skirt

Another unique element that I love about the affordable WE by Whitney Eve line is that each Apricot Lane Boutique only carries limited quantities, so chances of another friend wearing the same items are slim. Have you ever been that girl who wears the same dress as another to a party? Not fun.

Checking out the new WE by Whitney Eve line also gave me an opportunity to see Apricot Lane Boutique. As soon as I walked into the Downtown Disney store (the only location in central Florida), I immediately felt inspired by the cool and trendy atmosphere. The clothes they offer are affordable and very distinct as you’ll see here.

I adore this chevron cape. I’m also wearing the STEEL top from the WE by Whitney Eve collection.

Cute dress. Perfect for the holidays or springtime.

Love this unique peplum top.

Apricot Lane Boutique has a friendly and warm atmosphere with intricate decor and stand-out clothes and accessories. The staff is super helpful and really want to ensure you find the perfect outfit. Many of the lines they sell donate proceeds of the sale to charitable organizations, so shopping here also helps good causes. If you live in the central Florida area, be sure to visit the Apricot Lane Boutique at Downtown Disney. If not, there are many other locations in Florida and nationwide. It’s a great place to get your holiday shopping done.

Are you a fan of Whitney Port’s style? Have you ever shopped at Apricot Lane Boutique?

Publishing a Successful Fashion Blog- eBook Review

by J9 STYLE • 26 November, 2012 • 1 Comment

I hope everyone had a nice holiday. I took some time off to recover from my cold and spend some time with family. During this time, I was able to read the uber-helpful eBook Publishing a Successful Fashion Blog: Pro-Blogging Guide for Stylish Entrepreneurs by Glee Leah May Josko.

The author is the creative and business brains behind the successful fashion blogazine Creative Fashion and was able to transition from a career as a math teacher to a full-time fashion blogger. One of the unique qualities of this eBook is that Glee uses her teaching skills to guide bloggers to success. As a contributor to Creative Fashion, I was asked to review Glee’s one-of-a-kind eBook.This eBook is appropriate for fashion and style bloggers of all levels and stages. The guide starts with the basics: blog platforms, blog design, domain name, web hosting, tools needed to start a blog, etc. I realized that some of the basics I didn’t have covered even after two years of blogging and wished I had this guide before I started.

After the basics, Glee gives tips and tools to create impactful content that will not only leave readers wanting more but will improve search engine optimization. She explains the SEO world in a non-intimidating way that’s easy to comprehend.

Once the blog and content is established, the entrepreneur blogger divulges her specific tips and tools to monetize your fashion blog. She helps you navigate the overwhelming world of affiliate networks and provides a step-by-step approach to choose affiliates, sell advertising space and sponsor posts.

When is comes to fashion blogging, Glee is the real deal. Her 62-page eBook is thorough, detailed and easy to read. Throughout the chapters, the author includes 92 tips that you can try now along with quotes from other successful publishers.

I am so grateful to have this guide and will have it by my side EVERY time I blog. For less than $20, it’s an investment no fashion blogger can afford to miss. Purchase How to Publish a Successful Fashion Blog guide now to start improving your blog and take it to the next level! Click Here!

Have you read this eBook yet? What blogger knowledge did you wish you had before you started blogging?

J9′s Top 9 Bargain Shopping Tips

by J9 STYLE • 11 November, 2012 • 4 Comments

I get asked all the time for my shopping tips and how I create such great outfits on a budget. Most of my outfits are under $100 from head to toe and I tend to purchase versatile items that can create many looks. Although I can spend days discussing my shopping theories, I summarized my main bargain shopping tips.

1. Shop Your Closet First. First and foremost, before going shopping, take inventory of your closet. Many of the people I help style already have the items they think they need. With a few modifications, you can repurpose what you already have. Many women go shopping because they are bored with what they have and they are usually bored because they wear the same shirt with the same pants all the time. Ask a friend to look at your closet and style a few outfits. You’d be surprised what other people will come up with. Looking at magazine and fashion blogs will give you inspiration too.

2. Make a List. Once you evaluate your closet, write down a list of what you’re missing (just like a grocery list). This will help you get what you really need. It’s okay to get some fun items, but make sure you have the basics covered. If I haven’t been shopping in a while, I can get a little crazy grabbing anything cute that is in my path (it’s kind of like going to the grocery store hungry). For coveted fun items, I keep a list of those wants too and when they are on sale, I scoop them up.

3. Plan Ahead. Shopping can be tiring work (I really think it should be considered an Olympic sport- who’s with me?). If you are looking for a particular item, check the stores online first to eliminate unnecessary trips. It’s still best to purchase the item at the store (in-store purchases are usually cheaper and you don’t have to pay for shipping). I had a challenging time finding nude pumps in my price range, so I visited all of my usual stores online. I only found once store who had them, so I bypassed all the other usual shopping spots and went directly to the store I knew that had them.

4. Head Straight to the Clearance Rack. When walking into any clothing store, do not be tempted by the pretty full-priced displays at the front of the stores. Do not pass Go. Do not collect $200. Head straight to the clearance rack. By doing this, I’ve always gotten my staple items (e.g. cardigans, boyfriend blazers, skinny jeans) on clearance.

5. Determine if Your Really Need to Go Shopping. Whenever my heels needed to be re-soled, or I lost a button on a jacket, I used to just buy new ones. What a waste. I am now older and wiser. For around $6, you can get new heels and a button sewn- just like new!

6. Have Patience. I must admit, I don’t have too much of this. However, when it comes to fun items and trends, having patience can save you lots of money. For instance, I was after a pair of leopard pumps for almost a year. I couldn’t find a pair I liked for under $50. One day, I strolled into DSW, headed straight to the back clearance section and found a pair I loved for only $23! I had to wait a year, but the wait was worth it.

7. Don’t Be a Snob. Yeah, I said it. Well, wrote it. If you are a name-brand-only wearing gal and turn your nose up at deals and clearance, then bargain shopping (and probably this blog) isn’t for you. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE name brands. I just can’t afford them. To be a true savvy shopper, you have to be comfortable in stores like Target, Marshalls and TJ Maxx.

8. Try Consignment and Thrift Stores. Shopping at consignment stores is like searching for buried treasure. It can be a hit or miss, but when it’s a hit, boy does it feel good! This is a great way to score designer brands as well as unique pieces that no one else will probably have.

9. Use Coupons and Coupons codes. Every day some clothing store is having what I call a “social media sale,” meaning they sent out flash promo codes via Facebook, email, Twitter, etc. If you are a loyal fan of a particular store, get on their mailing lists and follow their social networking sites. When there is a particular item that you’ve waited for, there is no better shopping triumph than buying that item while it’s on sale AND with a promo code!

Hope these tips equip you with the tools you need to be a better frugalista.

Tell me, what are your shopping tips?

J9′s Top 9 Fashion and Beauty Fall Trends

by J9 STYLE • 24 September, 2012 • 9 Comments

I am really loving the fashion and beauty Fall trends this year. They transcend time and bring out the best from past decades as well as introduce some new looks. Here are my top 9 trends to try this Fall season.

1. Fall Trend: Peter Pan Collars

1. Forever 21 Lace Top 2. Charlotte Russe Necklace 3. Charlotte Russe Peplum Blouse

Who knew years later that Peter Pan would be a fashion icon? Not to be overshadowed by the statement necklace, these trendy collars are popping up everywhere. I love this look since it’s an easy way to accessorize and reminds me of one of my favorite style icons: Audrey Hepburn.

2. Fall Trend: Brocade Print

1. Target Skirt 2. Mod Cloth Dress 3. Vera Wang Tights from Kohl’s

This Fall trend, also known as baroque or damask, adds elegance to any outfit. If this Downton Abbey (cool points if you watch this show!) style print may be too much for an entire outfit, try it with an accessory such as tights or a belt.

3. Fall Trend: Gold/Metallic Clothes

1. Charlotte Russe Jeans 2. ASOS Dress 3. Target Flats

For a while, gold was shunned by the mainstream fashion community. Silver and platinum were all the rage for jewelry and were the metallic shades of choice. I’m so glad that the fashion industry has finally turned around and not only embraces gold, but promotes it! Wearing gold adds instant glam and flatters many skin tones. Not just for jewelry, gold can be worn in clothes, shoes and handbags. Rock it!

4. Fall Trend: Navy Nails

Source: elle.com via Melissa on Pinterest

Forever 21 Navy Polish

I love dark nails for Fall, but I was growing a little tired of black and deep purple nail polishes. Navy to the rescue! The new hue also complements many outfits. Give it a try!

5. Fall Trend: Leather

1. Target Skirt 2. Target Shorts 3. Calvin Klein Dress

No longer famous for just the jacket, leather will show up in all kinds of unusual places this Fall. Try a pair of leather shorts paired with tights or a flattering leather skirt appropriate for the office. If an entire leather item is a little too edgy for you, try it in smaller doses like this Calvin Klein dress.

6. Fall Trend: Mustard & Oxblood

1. Old Navy Peacoat 2.Target Jeans 3. Loft Lace Skirt 4. Forever 21 Sheath Dress

I don’t just love these Fall shades because they are the Gryffindor colors, but because they add some life to traditional dark Fall hues. I do, however, hate the names. I love Mustard the color, the condiment…despise it! Won’t even go near it. And Oxblood? Gross. Let’s call this something else shall we? Bordeaux, Chianti or Merlot perhaps? Much more palatable.

7. Fall Trend: Wine Lips

I’m surprised that with all the vampire-hype these past few years, this gothic makeup look is just now a Fall trend. I love how dramatic wine-colored lips complement a dark outfit perfectly for cold weather. To accomplish this look, almost all major makeup companies carry a wine lip color. Or, you can do what I do and drink a bottle of wine and leave the stain on your lips.

8. Fall Trend: Cap Toe Shoes

1. DSW Pumps 2. MICHAEL Michael Kors Flats 3. Charlotte Russe Pumps

Cap toe shoes were introduced last season, but since it requires a closed-toe, it will be an even bigger Fall trend. This small, yet mighty touch adds a sense of professionalism and chic-ness to any outfit. Try this look with heels or flats.

9. Fall Trend: Fringe Bangs

Source: living.msn.com via Samantha on Pinterest

Source: instyle.co.uk via Christine’s on Pinterest

One big Fall trend for hair is full fringe bangs. If you’ve been looking to change up your hair but don’t want to cut it shorter, dramatic bangs would be a great alternative. Bangs are surprisingly versatile and add instant style.

What are your favorite Fall trends?

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