Guide To Fashion, Style and Beauty

Personal beauty, fashion trends, style, glamour like celebrities

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

One of the Season's Hottest Trend: Colored Skinny Jeans

This Winter season, we have been presented with very bold collections from designers, everything from brightly-colored silk shift dresses to oversized jewelry and, of course, the seasons' hottest trend: colored skinny jeans. Many celebrities like Rachel Bilson, Fergie, Ashlee Simpson and Victoria Beckham have been wearing bold colors from electric blue to purple, but the question in everyone's mind is: can these colored skinny jeans be worn in the real world?

Colored skinny jeans are surely a hot trend so it’s worth picking up a pair or two but don’t spend a lot of money on them, as this trend too, shall pass. If you enjoy the spotlight and like to be at the edge of fashion, go get a pair of these hot colored skinny jeans.
However, to look gorgeous in your colored skinny jeans, there are some guidelines to follow:

First of all, to be very fashionable, you need to decide what to wear with the very colored skinny jeans. Since the jeans make a statement, having such a bold color, stay away from colorful tops and absolutely don't match the top and bottom colors. Stick to neutrals like black, grey or white tops and keep them loose and flowy (to keep balance in the body shape). If you’re worried about drawing unwanted attention to your buttocks and thighs, with the tight and colorful jeans go with a longer shirt to cover any insecurities.
Also beware of over-accessorizing! A simple ring or even some small bangles are all the jewelry the outfit can handle. Keep your shoes simple as well. Stick to basic flats shoes or pumps in a neutral color.

Actually, it can be very easy to go overboard with so many crazy colors to choose from. If not sure, don't buy a pair of purple, green or hot pink colored jeans, why not start with something a little more on the safer side? White, grey or red jeans are a great alternative to blue jeans; They are safe enough and yet still outrageous and on cutting edge of fashion.

Be Fabulous,

Ella
http://www.beautybyella.com/
http://community.beautybyella.com/
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Monday, December 17, 2007

How to Buy a Wedding Dress

Mr.Right has finally popped the question and put a ring on your finger. Congratulations, you're engaged! Like most women, you probably have been dreaming of your wedding day since you were a little girl, picturing yourself walking down the aisle in a stunning wedding dress. Now that the dream is becoming a reality, it’s time to shop for the perfect gown. There are so many beautiful styles to choose from. How does one find the perfect wedding dress?
Picking the right wedding dress can be a difficult and overwhelming experience. Keep the following items in mind when shopping for a wedding dress.
The first thing to do is assess a budget: It is important to decide how much you can spend on the wedding dress before going shopping. Many wedding dresses cost more than a thousand dollars (not including alternations and accessories!), so as soon as you get engaged, research the costs and start putting away money for your dress! Unfortunately, not every blushing bride can afford a beautiful designer wedding dress, so the first step to buying a wedding gown is to plan a budget for the wedding that includes a maximum allowance for your dress. Most North-Americans spend between $1000 to $2500 on a wedding dress. However, there are other costs: alterations will run about $300-$500, the veil $200-$400, and the accessories (like shoes and gloves) about $100- $250. Know that 50% deposit for the dress is usually required to order the wedding dress, and the balance must be paid before your first fitting.

Before going shopping for the wedding dress, you need to Know the wedding date. Most wedding dresses are ordered and can take several months to arrive from the time of the order. Then, once the dress arrives there are fittings, final alterations and customizations. Custom designed dresses can take even longer. If the wedding is soon, either purchase a dress off the rack or find a wedding dress tailor who can do a "rush" job to fit the schedule.

Determine the perfect style: Figure out what style will look best on your body shape. Then research the styles available. There are many bridal magazines available, filled with pictures of wedding dresses. Start looking for a wedding dress designs that you find appealing. Find some Bridal Salons and ask your friends who recently got married for referrals on boutiques they liked and start comparison shopping. ALWAYS bring someone you trust to the boutique. Get an honest second opinion from someone who knows you. Since this is the most important dress you’ll ever wear, it has to look perfect. “Fine” and “Okay” are not acceptable answers. You want to look “Fabulous!”

At the first appointment, show the sales person pictures of the preferred wedding dresses. Make sure she chooses within the price range that fits the budget. Try each dress on, and remember that the salon usually carries bigger sizes, the sales person will pin the dress to your silhouette. The size of a bridal gown is ordered based on measurements of bust, waist, hips and height. It’s fine to slim down for the wedding, but the dress has to fit properly, so no more dieting after the final fitting. There are a few basic cuts: Both Princess and A-line dresses have side seams that run vertically from the underarm to the hem. A-line/Princess shapes accentuate the waist line and tend to be the most figure-friendly. The ball gown (the Cinderella look) is the most traditional wedding-dress silhouette. The bodice is fitted through the waist and has a full (puffy) skirt. Sheaths are form fitting and slim, very modern and sexy. But to pull this dress off , make sure you get measured very carefully. A quarter-inch miss here really shows. The mermaid shape is like the sheath with one exception: the skirt flares out below the knee. The empire silhouette fits like any other empire dress. It has a high waistline that stems from the bust, with a slender skirt, great to hide a bigger bust.
A popular style choice for many brides today is a two-piece wedding dress. The two-piece is very comfortable and trendy. A bustier is a must for underneath the top of a two-piece gown. Which represents the mood you want to portray:

ROMANTIC - This is strapless or long-sleeved with a heart-shaped neckline. Romantic wedding dresses are usually complemented by a long train.
TRADITIONAL - Like the A-line, a traditional wedding dress is also described as a full gown. Petite brides look best in this style because it elongates the figure. Traditional wedding gowns consist of lace, satin, beads and buttons. It's also the puffy wedding dress.
MODERN - Also defined as a sheath, it's made of crepe and charmuse fabrics. It's very fitting for a formal, evening wedding.
CLASSIC - Lots of satin, little beading. A Classic wedding dress is for the bride who doesn't like to be flashy. It's more conservative.

Many women like the look of a long train. Keep in mind, however, that it's tough to walk around all day with a heavy train dragging behind. So do a detachable or a bustle, so it won't get stepped on and will give you freedom of movement during the reception.

Picking a headpiece (veil, tiara) is like picking a new hairstyle; it must flatter your face, not overpower it. When choosing your headpiecel, remember that it must conform not only to the dress, it must also flatter and complement the shape of your face.

OVAL FACES: You can wear almost any style headpiece.
LONG FACES: A band or wreath is recommended, as it softens the shape of the face.
ROUND FACES: Again, bands or wreaths work. Tiaras also look elegant on women with round faces.

For the shoes, stick with traditional white silk or satin. It is more elegant to wear closed toe shoes. Pick a heel that suits your height and comfort level since you will be wearing them to the ceremony, pictures and reception. Get used to wearing them before the wedding day. Walk around wearing the shoes about three times. Take sandpaper, or any other material with a rough surface and scrape the bottoms a bit. The idea is to not slip when walking down the aisle or dancing at the party.

Jewelry should be subdued. Stud-earrings like diamonds or pearls are common. As for the necklace, wear pearls or a simple necklace with a delicate pendant, but avoid wearing one with a very adorned dress at the neck line. Keep your left hand bare, and wear the engagement ring on your right hand (move the ring on the wedding band after the ceremony). do a small bracelet on a wrist. Most brides also wear a blue garter belt or an antique broach.

Finding the perfect wedding gown should be fun, not a chore. Invite your favorite people along, have lunch and make a day of it. Don’t let this be a stressful time. Be pampered and have a blast!

Be fabulous,

Ella

http://www.beautybyella.com/

Personal beauty, fashion trends, style, glamour like celebrities

How to Tie a Tie

There are many times in a man's life where it's necessary to wear a tie. Whether it's for a job interview or your wedding day, knowing how to tie a knot on a tie is a must for every guy. Start with these step-by-step instructions for a simple knot. Get a sharp-looking tie, a mirror and some patience, follow the steps and you too can become proficient at tying a tie for maximum class, professionalism, and style.

Instructions on how to tie a Necktie:

Stand in front of a mirror with a shirt buttoned all the way to the top and the collar up, put the tie around your neck. The thick end of the tie should be on the side of your dominant hand. So if you're right-handed, the wider end should be hanging on the right side. The wide end should hang down about twice as low as the thin end. The narrow side of the tie has a small seam in the front, move the thick end of the tie over the narrow end so they cross each other on the seam. Wrap the thick end behind the narrow end twice, a few inches below your neck. After wrapping the wide end around the second time, push it through the back of the V-shape made by the partially formed knot. Tuck the wide end through the front loop of the knot. Gently pull down on both the thin and wide ends below the knot until the knot is tight. Tighten the knot by sliding it up the narrow end. Make sure your tie is straight and the length is appropriate. The wide end should hang a bit lower than the thin end. If the thin end hangs below the wide end, untie the tie and begin again, and do the same if the wide end hangs too low (it should reach the bottom of the belt buckle). Flip your collar back down once the tie looks dapper. To make a dimple, hold the top blade on both edges and then pull it down gently until the top blade starts to tighten. A slight convex should appear close to the knot. Use your thumb and forefinger to press the bottom of the knot into a V-shape and the convex will deepen to form the dimple. To untie the necktie reverse the instructions, rather than pulling the thin end through to avoid stretching and prematurely wearing out the tie.

Instructions on how to tie a Bow tie:

If you know how to tie shoe laces, you know how to tie a Bow tie, as it’s the same knot. Getting proficient on how to tie a bow tie requires practice and patience, but once you get it down it’s actually quite easy. Stand in front of the mirror, with the shirt buttoned all the way and the collar standing up. Drape the bow tie around the neck and under the collar and grasp the ends, with the end on the right extending about 1.5 inches lower than the end on the left ( if right handed- or reverse). Cross the longer end over the shorter end. Cross the tie near your neck so that the loop is just large enough to work with. You don’t want your bow dangling in front of your chest. Pass the longer end up through the loop (on the inside), forming a simple, loose overhand knot. Grasp the loose end (dangling at the bottom) and fold the end back to form a loop that is pinched between your thumb and index finger. Essentially, you want to double the right side of the tie over itself to make the loop. Hold this loop, which will be the front loop of the completed tie, between your shirt’s collar points. Drop the upper end of the tie over the front of the bow. Form a new loop with this end, just as you did with the first one. While still holding the loop you just made, double the end over itself. Position the new loop behind the front loop facing the opposite direction. Pinch the loops together with your thumb and push the second loop into the knot behind the front loop. The tip of the right index finger will be in position to push the end of this loop into the hole behind the front loop. On one side, the loop will be on the front. On the other, it will be on the back Tighten the knot by pulling the two loops together, and straighten the bow tie. To loosen or untie the bow, pull on the tails.

Be fabulous,

Ella

http://www.beautybyella.com/

Personal beauty, fashion trends, style, glamour like celebrities mispelled words: ow, ohw, hhow, gow, jow, yow, uow, bow, now, hw, ie, ite, ttie, rie, yie, 5ie, 6ie, fie, gie, te, tie,tie, tie, tie, tie, tie, necktie, necktie, tie, bowtie, bowtie, bowtie, tie, tie

Saturday, December 15, 2007

The Hairstyle to Best Suit your Face Shape

Beside fashionable clothes and accessories, a great hairstyle is really what tops women's style list. Hairstyles have always been extremely important in determining the trends of the season and many times even in defining a decade. It is very important to the overall look to get the perfect hairstyle and in the entertainment business, a hairstyle can literally make or break a Celebrity's image. Hairdressing has become a multi-billion dollar industry and the average bill in a hairsalon hits $100, and the costs keep on rising. Though there are hundreds of women's hairstyles out there, not all of them are meant for every face shape. Thinking of getting a sleek new Sienna Miller hairstyle? If your face is oblong like Sarah Jessica Parker's you might want to reconsider. In fact, if choosing wrong, could make the difference between a flattering new hairstyle and a hair disaster. A flattering hairstyle on a heart-shaped face may not flatter a woman with an oblong or square-shaped face. A perfect oval may be able to pull off many different hairstyles and lengths, but a soft-featured, round face looks most pleasing in longer hair.
Finding out what face shape you have can be confusing. The key to choosing a hairstyle (not only fashionable but also flattering), is in knowing the contours of your face and what complements it. Find out how to pick the best suiting women's hairstyles:
There are six different face shapes in general: the heart, diamond, round, oval, square and oblong. Some people, however, have a combination of shapes; for example, a person may have an oval forehead and central area (cheekbones), but a square jaw line. A good way to determine the face shape is to go to the mirror and (with all the hair pulled back), trace the image of the face with a lipstick.

To find out if the face shape is oval measure it. If it is one and a half times longer than it is wide, it's an oval face. Examples of women's hairstyles that would look good are: Paris Hilton's short bob or the slightly layered longer hair of Eva Longoria. Many consider the oval face shape ideal because almost any hair style and length will look flattering. The oval face is the most versatile face. You can pull off almost any look -- short, long, straight or wavy. No matter the length of the cut, it will look best with layers near the cheekbones, lips or chin -- basically whatever feature you want to highlight. Avoid short layers: they add height on top of the head which will make the face appear longer. If the hair is thick or curly, avoid a blunt cut. You'll look like a pyramid.

Celebrities who also have an Oval face shape: Kate Hudson, Jessica Alba, Jada Pinkett Smith, Jennifer Aniston, Mariah Carey, jewel, Cindy Crawford, Heather Locklear, Sharon Stone, Uma Thurman, Julia Roberts, Courtney Cox Arquette, Elle MacPherson, Tyra Banks

Heart shapes are marked by wider foreheads and a pointed chin. The pointy chin tends to be the focal point of the face. Draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones instead with side-swept bangs (like Reese Witherspoon), brow-grazing fringe, a strong part and hair which falls at or below the jaw line. Have short hair? Keep top layers soft and long. Long hair? Go for long layers that graze the cheekbones. A beautiful heart-shaped face, needs softness at the temples and fullness just below the ear level to suit heart shape the best. Avoid a center parting, as it tends to emphasize the pointed chin, instead part the hair on one side or wear it without a parting. If the hair is short, turn the ends inwards. The most flattering styles on a heart face shape include medium to short lengths and wispy bangs. Look for women's hairstyles like a chin length bob or a longer style with layers, avoid anything with a lot of height on top (Jennifer Love Hewitt's long hair). Think Nicole Richie's bob. Avoid short, blunt-cut bangs and harsh, choppy layers.

Celebrities who also have a Heart face shape: Katie Holmes, Jennifer Lopez, Rachel Bilson, Michelle Pfeiffer, Ashley Judd, Claudia Schiffer, Emmanuaell Beart, Juliette Binoche, Lisa Kudrow, Lucy Lawless, Naomi Campbell.

People with square face shapes have a square hairline and strong jaw line. The face is as wide as it is long but with a definite square shape at the jaw. The main goal on a square face shape, is to play down the strong, angular jaw. Texture, in the form of curls or choppy ends, does it brilliantly.
You can also get away with short, spiky hairstyles and long, sleek styles with layers which start at the jaw-line and continue downward. Fringes and curls flicked forward help to soften ‘corners’ of the square face. Cut the hair short at the temples. Avoid symmetry, short crops or anything geometric. Make sure the hair has body, if necessary go in for a soft perm. Avoid one-length bobs (especially chin-length) and blunt-cut bangs. These hairstyles will make the face look even more square. Look for women's hairstyles that give softness by wisps or layers around the face. Off-centre parts are great as well. The layered, medium length of Sandra Bullocks hair is a great example. Curls also, soften the edges of the face.

Celebrities who also have a Square face shape: Gwyneth Paltrow, Demi Moore, Angelina Jolie, Isabella Rosellini, Rosario Dawson, Kristin Scott Thomas, Holly Marie Combs, Sandra Bullock.

The diamond face shape is defined by wide cheek bones with the forehead being both narrower than the cheeks and of equal width to each other. Luckily, the diamond face shape lends itself to most women's hairstyles. The face shape is balanced and dramatic. Try a variety of styles. Almost every style works with a diamond face (as long as it is a true diamond). Go for shorter hairstyles, however if you are a dramatic diamond shape, leave weight in the back nape area like a heart shaped face. This style will achieve more balance between the dramatic cheekbones and the more delicate chin line. Do just about everything, but try not too wear to much hair on the face, thereby hiding your great features. Think the many hairstyles of Cameron Diaz.

Celebrities who also have a Diamond face shape: Katherine Hepburn, Linda Evangelista, Sophia Loren.

Sarah Jessica Parker is a perfect example of an oblong face shape. These faces are longer than they are wide. Short to medium lengths hairstyles are best for an oblong face shape, especially ones with body on the sides to lend width. Bangs can also help shorten the appearance of the face. The perfect hairstyle for an oblong face shape is one that doesn't drag down the face, yet adds width. Women's hairstyles for an oblong face shape are Victoria Beckham's bob with lots of volume. Bangs swept over the forehead help make the face look more oval, and people with an oblong face shape should avoid too-short or too-long styles. Beautiful oblong faces can be made to look less long with fringes, soft half-fringes or a chin-length cut which is fuller at the bottom, add width. Anything but a long straight bob, which will make you appear even more long faced and pulls down the whole appearance. Stay away from extremely long or short cuts. These elongate the face. Long hair looks best with a few layers cut in, especially around the face. Consider a v-shaped hairstyle, where the length is mainly in the back, while the sides and front of the hair appear shorter.

Celebrities who also have an Oblong face shape: Ashlee Simpson, Giselle Bundchen, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kirstie Alley, Janet Jackson, Gabrielle Reece, Niki Taylor, Stephanie Seymour.

Round faces are wide across the cheekbone area and round at the chin.
The face is round if, when measured, it is as wide as it is long. The main goal is to create less volume around the face. You also want to minimize the appearance of roundness. Try cuts that fall just below the chin. Soft, graduated layers are a great bet because they make the face appear slimmer and tend to remove bulk and weight from the sides. Consider wispy and tapered ends. These de-emphasize the roundness of the face. Bangs are flattering, but keep them long or side-swept. Since you have a nice round face, make sure the hair is cut onto the cheeks to shade them and narrow down the sides. A shoulder length cut will help make the face look longer and slimmer. Avoid fringes and curls. A soft feathery look is the most flattering. Straight long hair gives a stunning effect! Hairstyles to avoid are bobs ending at the chin and anything wisping onto the face as both will only accentuate the roundness. Curly, short hair is also a no-no, it will only emphasize the face roundness. Instead opt for longer styles to give the appearance of a longer face. Good women's hairstyles for round faces are any styles giving height on the top, or layered longer styles like Kate Winslet's. Hair that falls to the shoulders is ideal as it helps to create a longer, less round look. "Feathered" and longer layers are also flattering.

Celebrities who also have a Round face shape: Fergie, Kate Bosworth, Oprah Winfrey, Cameron Diaz, Kirsten Dunst, Michelle Williams, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Ingrid Bergman, Roseanne Barr, Natalie Merchant, Drew Barrymore, Christina Ricci, Charlotte Church.

Occasionally, a famous person's signature hairstyle reaches the iconic level and the masses rush out to copy it. So what happens when everyone wants the cut of the moment regardless of their particular face shape? The hairdressers will give them and you the cut, but remember to ask for some tweaking according to your face shape. Overall when you opt for a haircut that compements your face shape you will not only look stylish and well put together, it might also help you look thinner and more confident... and it is faster than any diet!

Be fabulous,

Ella

Personal beauty, fashion trends, style, glamour like celebrities

Friday, December 14, 2007

Guide to the Best Prom Dress and Style

There are very few times in life when you get to wear a truly glamorous, jaw-dropping dress. The prom is one of those special days; it's the end of all the hard academic work as a student and the celebration of an accomplishment, and of course you want to look your best. But how? This is a special occasion where the same dress, hair and makeup will have to work for pre-prom pictures, a special dinner, and a few hours of dancing, so you'll want to pick a style that is comfortable and easy to maintain as well as flattering. Choosing the proper prom dress style for your body type is important if you want to look your best at the prom. All prom dresses can be nice, but putting the right prom dress style on the right body type can make a nice prom dress, fabulous.
Here are the basics:

Don't leave shopping for the Prom dress until the last minute. Look through magazines and watch Red Carpet specials, and pay attention to which style photographs and moves well. Look through the closet for a guide as to what styles and colors have worked for you in the past. Plan a budget for the prom dress and begin saving as soon as possible. Be sure to allow extra cash for small accessories like hair clips, panty hose, and make-up. When you finally make it to the store, bring a camera and a reliable honest person. Keep an open mind. Try on lots of different styles of dresses in a variety of cuts to find the one style that works best on the figure. A slim figure, may look best in a sheath-style dress that shows off the silhouette. A curvy figure, might want to consider an A-line dress that will highlight the waist, minimize the hips and thighs, and slim the body in the right places. A short and petite figure should try a short cocktail dress; if you prefer a longer style dress though, look for a short dress that fits longer, it will fit better without being too long.
Once you have narrowed the choices to one particular prom dress style, try on that style in a variety of different colors and finishes, you might love one that you would never thought to wear. Look for a glamorous shade that suits your skin complexion: cool colors for pale shades and warm colors for olive or darker skin tones. When choosing a fabric finish, keep in mind that shinier finishes will tend to show off figure flaws while matte finishes will diminish undesirable features.

Always order the prom dress early. It's best to start shopping in January or February when the selection of prom dresses is the largest. Buy the dress a couple of months before prom night to have lots of time for alterations. Many prom dress' manufacturers sell out the closer they get to prom season. It takes time to find the right dress, and you don't want to find out that the size is not in stock. Purchase a prom dress that looks good on your body and makes you feel amazing, not something other people suggest to buy. However, make sure not to purchase the prom dress too far in advance, as before big events you can easily lose and gain weight, from stress or anything else. Buy prom shoes well in advance once the prom dress has been purchased, wear the shoes around the house and scuff the sole on the driveway (so they won't be slippery). Consider the budget- are the shoes a place to skimp or to splurge?

Metallic tones (silver, gold or copper) suited to the color of the prom dress are tried-and-true, and can be found with a variety of heel heights and can be used again with other dresses. Keep away from too trendy shoes and instead consider comfort. Consider shoes between the range of two to three inches heels which can smooth out bulges in the body, improve posture and add height.

Pick other accessories that suit the dress style. A simple dress can often be bolstered by jewelry, but if the dress is already flashy enough, minimal jewelry is probably best. Careful on bracelet and rings, they might have sharp clasps and claws which will snag the pantyhose or the precious prom dress.
When considering hairstyles, magazines and the fashion community are an excellent resource: cut out (or print) pictures with hairstyles to consider, then get the hairstylist opinion. Consider what part of the prom is most important for you: are the pre-prom pictures what you're most excited about? Or are you likely to be showing off on the dance floor? Choose a structured or more relaxed style prom dress accordingly. Always keep the style of the dress in mind, and purchase hair accessories well in advance.
Makeup is the area with the highest possibility for error. On Prom night, put the dress on before applying make-up or styling hair, then drape a towel or put on (and button up) a shirt over the dress to prevent accidents with food, drink, make up, hair spray, etc. This will prevent any smudges or product stains on the perfectly glamorous prom dress. The Prom is a highly photographed event, so foundation is not optional, but keep in mind that this is taking place in spring/summer. Tinted moisturizer and powdered mineral foundation will cover without being heavy in the heat. Eye and lip make-up should be applied as usual. If you want to experiment, try it out well in advance and continue perfecting it. You don't want to make makeup mistakes, that will only add on to the stress of prom night. The final key to a flawless appearance is maintaining it throughout the night! Bring a clutch with only the bare daily necessities (cell phone, ID, etc.), and include a powder case, lipstick, and bobby pins. Re-apply powder and lipstick and check for problems before the date arrives, prior to leaving the restaurant, and then several times at the event.

Whenever possible, leave your look to the professionals. Book an appointment with the hair-stylist 2 months prior to the prom. Prom is a very busy time and you want to have an appointment date and time booked with the stylist. The hair-style options are endless, make sure it fits your face shape. Look for a hair stylist or makeup artist - having help with the style is a

tension reliever. A manicure and pedicure are subtle, but they will finish the look. Make it a date with friends where you can all get pampered or do it for each other. Don't forget the basics of getting ready for any event. Shaving, tweezing, waxing and moisturizing are especially important on nights like these! Again, always plan in advance!

A Word of Warning:

Never make a drastic change in the appearance right before Prom night! Dramatic hair cuts and last-minute tanning appointments are a definite no-no, even if they seem like a great idea at the time.
Remember that photos of this night will last for many years to come: Look for what really suits you, not just what is popular.

Have fun, Prom Night will go too fast so make memories that will last a life-time!

NOTE: Find amazing dresses at eDressMe (follow the link below); the amazing e-store was featured on the TV show EXTRA as a fantastic place to get gorgeous gowns for cheaper.

Here is the video clip: http://site.edressme.net/extra0208.html

Be fabulous,

Ella

http://www.beautybyella.com/

Personal beauty, fashion trends, style, glamour like celebrities

How to Style the Little Black Dress

The season of parties and special events has started, but with all the choices of clothing to wear, a lot of women rely on their trusted and always stylish LBD (Little Black Dress).
It is a safe and very stylish choice, and a staple in a woman's closet, but most of all it fits any invitation: from the Holiday Party to the Black-Tie affair!

"The black dress is the embodiment of women's power. It's very stark, direct, and to the point." (Alexander McQueen)

The beauty of the Little Black Dress is that it is in a neutral color, so allows many ways to style and accessorize it, and manage to always look different. There are a few guidelines on how to style and accessorize the little black dress: You can't really make any color mistakes, but there are ways to get it wrong, like being too conservative or too gaudy. The only way to mess up a great Little Black Dress look, is to either over-do the accessories, or to just leave it as a "yawn", boring, plain look! My advice: accessorize with caution!

When styling and accessorizing, be balanced (just like when you dress your figure), you are trying to create a proportionate figure, so keep the size of the accessories in-line with the size of your body. It's very off-balance to have a petite woman with a super-sized purse, or a fuller figure woman's neck swallowing the small necklace!

If on the petite side, do attention-grabbing chandelier earrings, no necklace, and a couple of medium sized bangles on one arm, a cocktail ring on the other and a smaller clutch bag.

If on the heavier side do the same, but with a slightly bigger proportion in the jewelry, do also a pretty wrap, to carry around your forearms, it's slimming.

If on the slim side, bring attention to your face with a pretty necklace (one with many strands), do small earrings or studs, do looser bracelets (bangles will make your arms look smaller), or none at all, do a small clutch and wear a cocktail ring (it's a conversation starter).

Keep in mind the bust size: big bust no necklace, small bust do a big necklace. Bare in mind also, the style of the dress too, a necklace with a alter top style it's a no-no while it's a great addition to a strapless dress style.

The Little Black Dress looks best with bare legs or sheer pantyhose (to keep it elegant), leggings and tights will dress it down. Shoes can be fun: do color (red is amazing), or do a dressy black high heel, but have an interesting detail, like a red sole. If you keep the dress shoes simple, do metallic accessories or colored stones, to give some visual interest to the outfit. Skin color dress shoes are classy as well, and will enlongate the line of the leg (making you appear taller).

Any color jewelry will go with black, but keep it as monochromatic (or coordinated) as possible. Get a few ideas on how to dress up, or down a Little Black Dress, by checking the Gallery on the BeautyByElla Community, and see how celebrities style it for special occasions.

Be fabulous,

Ella

Personal beauty, fashion trends, style, glamour like celebrities dress, liittle black dress, luttle

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

How to Dress Fabulous this Holiday Season

'Tis the Season to be Jolly... and also of Parties and Pictures. Ever wonder how certain people always look so put together? It's because they're dressed fashionably and have a well-thought sense of style! Here's a simple guide how to show the best style this Holiday season without looking like a Christmas catastrophe... Follow these easy style steps, to have a fantastic style and a fashionable Holiday Season.

Organize the closet first: You don't know what's in there or it's needed until the closet is purged; so get out all the clothes and decide which fashion pieces are worthy to keep and which ones should be donated. Give away every piece of clothing that hasn't been worn in a year, doesn't fit anymore or is just not-fashionable! Donate all the old fashion pieces to a charity or a second-hand dress store (after all, it is the Season of Giving).

Then look at yourself in the mirror, and as objectively as possible, pick things about your physical appearance, likes and dislikes. What do you want to disguise? Want to emphasize? What's your body type?

Decide what's your Style: What and who's style to emulate? Want to incorporate trendy fashion items into the wardrobe, or do you prefer the classic-style look?

If in need of some new fashions, go shopping: The best thing to do is to buy long-lasting pieces that will retain their class throughout the seasons. Fashion changes very quickly! But, most of all, buy according to what flatters your body shape. Buy some great fashionable shoes, cute accessories and get a new style of haircut! Fashionable handbags, stylish shoes and jewelry is the place to show a sassy side. Being fashionable is being confident (don't ever wear something that doesn't make you feel beautiful).

Before going to a party make sure to find out ahead of time what the dress code will be. It can be very awkward showing up to a dressy event in jeans (being over-dressed has its own problems too). When in doubt, ask another person what they will be wearing. It's fine to show some skin, but dresses do not have to have plunging necklines or be skin bearing to be attractive. If in doubt, a Business Casual dress code usually works, just not too casual. Remember, people take pictures that will inevitably resurface year after year.

As a general rule: Do neutral basic pieces (dress, skirt, shirt, trouser) accented by color; color all around screams: "crazy", more than "festive" (besides, people don't need another Christmas tree). Don't be too simple or too flashy.
Black is very classy and fashionable, especially when paired with red or metallic pieces. Brown and Navy, are also great choices, but if you must do color, go for a dress in a very saturated jewel tone, like emerald green, or ruby red; don't color match the accessories to the dress color, go for metallic accents or neutrals.

Make-up is the link that pulls it all together. Don't look over-made, just polished: It can be achieved by just applying foundation, blush (or bronzer) and lip gloss. Do not try to co-ordinate the makeup to the outfit. It sounds like a good idea, but it's not, make-up should flatter the skin tone, not the dress.

The way a partner dresses, will show the overall mood of a couple. Give him a few choices
so he will look just as stylish.

A Warning: Stay away from overly decorated "school-teacher" sweaters (the ones with the snowman and candy cane shaped buttons and matching appliques?) and Color-matching outfits on anybody over the age of 8. Even when taking photos for the Holiday cards, it just looks corny. A similar color scheme, however, looks very nice.
Don't accessorize with "jingle bell" necklaces, earrings, bracelets, etc. (we already discussed about leaving the ornaments on the Christmas tree), the festive season can be shown through attitude, and if you really love candy canes, give them away!

Have a great Holiday Season, many blessings!

Ella

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Tuesday, December 11, 2007

How to Dress to Look Thinner

Want to look thinner without going to the gym? Of course you do! there are some tricks to look instantly thinner without a dangerous crash diet or drastic plastic surgery. Whether you've got a hot date or big interview, read on for some great tips on how to look thinner.

Steps:

Buy clothes that fit and that are the right size, it's slimming! If a size 20, don't try and squeeze into a size 16, it will make the figure look bigger. But at the same time, don't wear clothes that are too large, figure out your body shape and wear clothes that fit properly. Whether a size 8 or a size 48, if wearing the wrong size clothes, you'll end up looking bigger. Wearing clothes that are too tight leads to bulges and lumps, just as choosing clothes which are too large adds sizes to the original figure. Try things on before purchasing them!

3. Always make sure to wear proper fitting underwear. The go for a seamless look- no ill-fitting bras that leave back fat spilling over in bulging rolls. Thongs and g-strings are pretty, but to give the illusion of a thinner figure, go for supportive styles which help to pull in the tummy. A well fitting bra can also help to create a smooth thinner figure.

4. Highlight your good features! If you have a beautiful slender neck, but a bit of weight on the waistline, draw attention to the neck with an eye catching necklace, or other accessories. With toned arms , wear a sleeveless top to make the most of your assets. Wear long, fitting shirts. These are flattering to everybody since they seem to stretch out the torso. They should fit to flatter the body type, but please, don't immediately dash to the nearest Abercrombie and Fitch. Their shirts are too snug for someone who's worried about looking thinner.

5. Work on the posture. Stand up straight, pull the stomach in, and the shoulders back. Improve your posture, not only to decrease visibility of the rolls on the stomach, but also to gain confidence!! Pair that with a winning smile and you're good to go. Practice posture by balancing a book on the head and walking - the book shouldn't fall off!
Look in the mirror and make sure the posture is not hunched over. This is possibly the MOST important tip for someone who's trying to look thinner, as bad posture can add pounds visually.

6. Dark Colors: Black virtually slims out everyone, and reduces the appearance of belly fat, muffin tops, and love handles. Black can easily be dressed up with a nice colored belt and jewelry.

Some Tips:

Black is great as a quick fix as it is very slimming (but only if it fits properly).

Vertical stripes give the illusion of slimness, but watch out as horizontal stripes do the opposite. When choosing vertical stripes, go for the narrow ones. Broad stripes can make a figure look larger. However, be aware that very clingy and tight vertically striped clothing will accentuate every bump and bulge. Pinstriped formal shirts are cute and make you look thinner.

Be confident - it's the best way to make people take notice!

Emphasize the smaller part of the body and camouflage the problem areas. If the waist is relatively thinner than the hips, wear form-fitting shirts and skirts that flare out. If the middle is thick and the legs are normal sized, wear looser, tunic blouses with thin, straight-legged pants. DON'T wear loose tops with loose bottoms.

Just because it's the latest fad doesn't mean it'll look good.
Learn to choose clothes that flatter and are slimming, and not just the hottest styles. Or try to select a variant of the style that will work best for your figure. Do however, wear the latest accessories with classic well-fitting pieces to combine fashionable and flattering.

Choose the colors carefully. Avoid bright colors and busy patterns; they instantly make the body look bigger than it is! Dark colors make a heavy section look thinner. Is the bottom half thinner than the top half? That means switching to dark colored tops is a must. Is the top half thinner than the bottom half? Go for darker pants, skirts, or jeans to slim down the bottoms and legs. Never wear anything shiny over an area you are trying to hide.
Contrary to popular belief, larger people can wear brighter colored clothes as long as their clothes work with their body and fit properly.

Straight legged (or slightly boot cut) trousers create an unbroken line down the leg. This will make the body appear taller and therefore thinner. Peg legs make a round bottom look like an ice cream cone, while Boot cut pants balance out the rear. Go for side or rear fastenings, front flies will make the stomach bulge out.

Invest in a tailor made suit - or several.

Match the shoes to the size of the figure. If short and heavy, a pair of understated platform clogs or boots can give height, and also counterbalance the body size. If tall and heavy, a pair of dark colored flats or low heel pumps will make the feet look smaller without making you even taller. Avoid slender heels and sharp pointy toes; they will look small, and accentuate the size.

Go for bell-shaped sleeves for big arms or cover them with structured jackets.

Match the jewelry to the size. If a big, tall person, wear big pieces of jewelry. Think a nice chunky bracelet or a pair of chandelier earrings. A big necklace will look great too, but avoid chokers.

A universally flattering style of top is the empire cut. This cut has a band or some type of visual interest right bellow the bust. This style helps to draw the eye upward toward the face and to skim the stomach and make it appear thinner.

Do not buy cheap clothes: bigger people need fabrics and cuts which are of high quality. Invest in a good wardrobe. Lighter colors show wear and tear more than dark. Don't skimp on them.

Learn what colors suit your complexion. Wear hair and makeup in a flattering way. People will be too distracted by the beautiful face to care about everything else. Be confident and proud of yourself! You're beautiful, even if not the skinniest person on the planet. Hey, who is? Love and embrace your curvy body.

A word of Warning:

Choose pants with a smooth front: no pleats! Pleated pants poof out below the waistband, drawing attention to the stomach.

When buying pants, pay attention to the rise. Too high a rise can create the illusion of a tummy even with a 6-pack, and too low a rise can lead to belly pooch hanging over the top of the jeans, not pretty!

You don't NEED to be thinner to look great, the only thing that matters is how well clothes fit and how comfortable they are. Remember that the only function of size tags is to provide information, so ALWAYS buy clothes in your size.

Torrid - The Alternativezes 12 - 26 For Si

Be Fabulous,

Ella

http://www.beautybyella.com

Personal beauty, fashion trends, style, glamour like celebrities thinner: hinner, htinner, tthinner,rhinner, yhinner, 5hinner, 6hinner, fhinner, ghinner, tinner ,ook, olok, llook, kook, oook, pook, lok, look, loook, liok dress look thinner slimmer

Monday, December 10, 2007

Celebrities Fashion Faux-Pas

What is a Fashion "Faux-Pas"? Well, in plain English is a Fashion Don't, or the act of breaking fashion rules as they are set and reset by Fashion Gurus. A lot of celebrities rely on the help and expertise of Fashion Stylists, and even though the costs for their services are a bit steep, they help their scrutinized celebrity-clients keep a high fashion profile. But when some celebrities avoid this service and take it into their own hands, fashion disaster often happens. Here are some celebrities caught committing the crime.

Beyonce Knowles, is a fashion faux-pas from head to toe in this outfit:
The colorful saucer earrings are too big (they cover her whole neck), and too color-coordinated.

A leather jacket on a musician just rocks! but the Pleather-patened-blue-bordered top this celebrity wears is atrocious!

I love that she's proud of being a Bootylicious girl, but what's with the super skinny short-hem jeans?

Not very flattering, on her curves.

Then there is the very expensive (about $4000) Balenciaga shoes, which look like a science project gone bad.

Beyonce needs to stop dressing herself and get some expert's fashion advice! And, just because the item is expensive, it doesn't make it fashionable! Some things are better left for theatrics of the runway!

Mary-Kate Olsen is very fashion forward and often makes odd choices on her fashion wear, but this Giambattista Valli dress, tops the chart! Even though the mini-dress does show the celebrity's beautiful shaped limbs, the fabric is just too bulky on her tiny frame. The bottom of the dress fits Mary-Kate like a giant diaper and it leaves me wondering if the multi-millionaire-child-actor actually owns a mirror. Her purse must have had a terrible accident with a shredder and her platform shoes are blushing from embarrassment. Actually, the carpet in the background looks classier than this celebrity does. Once again, I'll say it: she should just leave it to the fashion pros to dress her on special occasions.

Britney Spears has been very much criticized and scrutinized lately, so I really feel guilty for picking on her, but look at her outfit!

My standard is: if the top of the dress is pulled so low that it doesn't cover the bust properly, and the hem of the dress is so high that you need to pull it down just to cover your privates, then it's not a dress! Maybe it was supposed to have a skirt or a trouser. I am not too crazy about her matching lace choker (it looks like she ripped it from the bottom of the dress), To make this celebrity stylish, I would have gone longer on the hem, picked some modern looking jewelry, to compensate the lace (and keep the look fresh), or put on some tights! The entire look reminds me of casino waitress, or super sexy cleaning lady (either way, it would make a sexy Halloween costume!). Britney, I believe we have seen enough of your private parts, straighten-up your act and rely on fashion experts to dress you.

Rihanna's dress is either not-tailored (which she wore right off the rack) or a tailor's disaster!

I am positive that the Armani Prive' dress was not supposed to be this ill-fitting. I really hope, for the sake of everyone around her, that sticky tape was used to hold her inside the top. The dress' velvet skirt can fit two Rihannas, and the shape is not flattering on her beautifully-fit body. What happened to the accessories? My theory is: she spent too much time at the hair stylist and left the house in a rush!

I am confused...is it a purse in her hand or a glove (Michael Jackson style)? Either way what was she thinking?

Beside a fitting, this outfit could have really used some color!

See more celebrities' fashion don'ts on the Fashion Community

Be fabulous,

Ella

Personal beauty, fashion trends, style, glamour like celebrities

How to Apply Perfume

Perfume in a social environment has either a place of acceptance or of repulsion. Beside the personal likes and dislikes of different fragrances, there is the abuse of perfume, which over-powers everyone's else sense of smell and has a negative effect. So what are the guidelines to how to wear perfume?
Everyone has a personal "scent circle": approximately an arm's length from the body. No one should be aware of your fragrance unless they get within the "circle." Perfume should be one of the most subtle, personal messages you send to those with whom you come in contact.
For a long-lasting effect, fragrance should be layered on the body, start with toilet water or Eau de Parfum (next in strength to perfume), to build the fragrance foundation. Apply the Eau the toilet all over the body, and because fragrance rises, spray or smooth fragrance onto skin from the feet to the shoulders. If fragrance is applied only behind the ears, it will eventually rise and disappear.
As a final step, perfume, the most concentrated and long-lasting form of fragrance, should be applied at the pulse points, where the heartbeat is apparent (wrists, behind ears, crook of elbow, base of throat, bosom, behind knees, inside the ankles).
Keep in mind that there are factors which can alter the smell of a perfume. The wearer's diet can affect the way a fragrance smells and lasts on the skin. Ffr example, if the perfume wearer is on a high fat or spicy diet, perfumes will be more intense. A dramatic change in diet can also alter skin chemistry, causing perfumes to smell differently.
Skin type will also affect the way a fragrance smells on a person: Perfume wearers with oily skin should know that fragrances will interact with the oils in their skin to create a more intense scent. While dry skin does not retain fragrance as long as oily skin, which will require the wearer to re-apply the perfume more often.
Always remember to: Keep the perfumes safe from extreme conditions. Long exposure to strong sunlight or extremes in temperature can disturb the delicate balance of a perfume and change its scent. Perfume, to last, should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct light. Once a bottle of perfume is opened it should be used, otherwise it will begin to fade or change its character.
When shopping for a new fragrance, never to try more than three scents at one time. The nose will lose the ability to tell the difference. Apply fragrance directly to the skin when testing new scents. You cannot get a true sense of the perfume's reaction to your skin from the bottle or paper. Apply a few drops to the wrist. Allow the heat of the body to develop the fragrance on the skin and then sniff. If you would like to test one or two additional scents, apply one to the other wrist... wait, and then apply the third to the inside bend of the elbow. If you want to delay the decision while shopping, be sure to write down which fragrance you put where, so you'll be able to refer back to it later on.
It is never too soon, to introduce a young person to the experience, the fun and the benefits of fragrance. Different scents are believed to have their own unique affect on moods and feelings. Use fragrance throughout the day. It will increase the feelings of well being and add a special degree of graciousness to daily living.
For great selection and unbeatable prices go to Fragrance X (link below).

Be Fabulous,

Ella

http://www.beautybyella.com/
http://community.beautybyella.com
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Source: The "Perfume Station"

Friday, December 7, 2007

How to Dress to Minimize Hips

Have you ever had this problem: you are either tring to get ready in the morning or about to embark another shopping adventure, but nothing seems to fit because of those nasty saddle bags, and no matter how many pieces of clothing surround you, you still feel like you have nothing to wear? Don't feel bad, most people have this problem (even celebrities), and there are tricks to hide it. Just like any other styling trick, the only way to create a slimmer shape is in the art of illusion, or in tricking the eyes to focus else where.

The Dress

A staple in anyone's closet is that flattering dress, to wear at parties or on a night out on the town; here is what I suggest:

You want to emphasize the smallest part of your torso, which is your waist. So don't buy an Empire-waist dress (I know you have heard otherwise); empire-waist, brings the line up to your breast, and leaves everything else to fall on the bottom half, hugging the hips and making you look flat and wide. Try a dress with a defined waist and an A-line voluminous skirt, a V neck or a Sweetheart neck make you appear leaner.

Also, try on some wrap dresses that tie at your waist, but go for a bolder print and color (nothing too busy), rather than a solid washed-out color.

A strapless dress which comes in at the waist and a full skirt works too, as it brings the attention to your upper half. Avoid at all cost, Tent dresses (and sweaters), which have no shape and don't hide anything, actually, they make you look wider all over. Let your beautiful curvy shape emerge from under your clothes.

The Skirt

Just like rules for the dress, the skirt follows suit by drawing all attention to

your waist line.

A full, pleated, knee-length skirt will conceal wide hips. Avoid thight, slim and clingy skirts that would highlight your widest area; therefore no pencil skirts.

Instead do a high waisted belted skirt to draw attention to your slimmer

waist line. Thick fabric (for a straight cut skirt), such as brocade, hang well and resist pulling against trouble spots.

The Pants

The best cut to flatter your figure is a boot-cut, which will create a straight lean line. A wider straight leg (no flared but full) balances proportions.

Avoid these cuts: tapered pants (they wouldl emphasize a wide middle area), no high-waisted, or pleated pants, no skinny jeans. Make sure your pants have a straight leg, they shouldn't pull at the hips. Go for any color (yes, even white), but avoid bold patterns. they should be worn with a waist defining top (the length should hit you at the lower hips - hiding most of your buttocks). Full wide leg gauchos drape without clinging, wear them with a wide belt, a cute camisole and a cropped jacket (which should hit you at the waist).

The Tops

If you wear a jacket then do a cute camisole or tank top underneath, the jacket

should have a deep V-neck and ornate details to bring the focus upward, keep the jacket cropped at the waist to make you appear leaner. If you just want a top, pick a shirt wich comes in at the waist and has a deep V-neck.

The Coat

For this Fall/Winter season do a fashionable belted trench coat. Go for a shorter coat, that hits you just below the thighs. Don't be afraid of color, opt for a gorgeous burgundy, or white or a fun pattern, it will be a beautiful addition to your outfit. Remember to keep a slimming and attention grabbing V-neck.

The Accessories

The goal with accessories is to finalize your look and to put

the cherry on the attention grabbing outfit. Collect a lot of wide belts. A metallic belt worn over a coat or a cute top will bring the attention to your waist. Also collect neckware and earrings to bring the focus on your upper half.

Don't forget that a nice pair of high heels will, not only give the illusion of height, but also of a slimmer figure.

Be Fabulous,

Ella

http://www.beautybyella.com/