Copyright 2015 by Aimee Wood All Rights Reserved

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2 Copyright 2015 by Aimee Wood All Rights Reserved No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without written permission from the author. While all attempts have been made to verify the information provided in this book, the publisher and author assume no responsibility for errors or omissions, or for injuries, losses, untoward results, or any other damages that may result from the use of information in this book. The reader is responsible for his or her own actions Certain links within the book may lead to resources maintained by third parties over whom the author and publisher have no control, and the author and publisher make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy of those resources All Rights Reserved 2

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction Chapter I What Fashion is All About and a Brief History of It Chapter II How Can Fashion Help Your Personality Chapter III Face Shapes and Necklines That Flatter Each Shape Chapter IV Types of Necklines and the Facial Features They Highlight Chapter V Types of Tops for Women Chapter VI Common Types of Jackets, Sweaters and Coats Chapter VII Types of Skirts and Pants - How They Can Balance Your Body Proportions Chapter VIII Types of Dress Silhouettes and the Body Shapes They Complement Chapter IX Body Sizes and Shapes 2015 All Rights Reserved 3

4 Chapter X How to Accentuate Your Best Features and Conceal What You Like to Hide according to your... a. Body Size b. Body Shape c. Skin Tone Chapter XI Bonus Chapter : Quick Fashion Tips for Every Occasion Attributions 2015 All Rights Reserved 4

5 INTRODUCTION All women want to feel beautiful and attractive. No exception. We all gaze at the gorgeous models we see in magazines or on TV, (secretly) envying them and wishing we looked as good. The beautiful clothes, that outline all the best features of the models, the combination of clothes types, fabric and patterns always so dreamy. But looking great shouldn t be something so hard to get and women shouldn t regard this aspect as a Sci-Fi phenomenon that requires extraordinary genetic inheritance or a special fashion power. Viewing fashion in this manner has lead to many women giving up on fashion and on the idea of looking and feeling great by wearing something nice. They just settle with whatever look they can get by throwing on different pieces of clothing that separately are quite attractive, but don t result in a desirable outfit when combined. Either this or trying to copy an outfit seen on someone, somewhere, regardless if it suits our figure or not, is the consequence of women having no awareness of fashion rules. The truth is that many women tend to ignore these rules for various reasons. But another truth is that we do not need to know an entire rule code to dress right, we just need to be aware of the fashion basics, a few simple guidelines that can transform anyone from a fashion nightmare into a head-turning appearance. This negative fashion perception that exists among women usually springs from several basic problems: Not knowing how to dress and accessorize to one s advantage Not matching one s clothes and accessories to one s figure, body size, skin tone, face shape etc Not knowing how to emphasise one s good features Not knowing how to conceal flaws This is a phenomenon that persists for quite some time and it is the consequence of women not acknowledging how important fashion is and how much it can change our perception about clothing and, more importantly, about ourselves.

6 We live in a world where looks have become very important. The way you wear your clothes, accessories, makeup and hair is the first thing people notice about you. And as superficial as it sounds, they do judge a book by its cover. It s human nature. The good news is you can always rely on the right clothes and accessories in order to make you look and feel beautiful. You just need to find the ones that accentuate your best features and conceal what you like to hide. Also, it is very important to choose those clothes and accessories that best reflect your personality. Don t be a slave to fashion who pays attention only to what designers and trendsetters dictate. You must choose, from the variety of trends and styles out there, the ones that really describe you and your way of being. These are the words of you can take from this book Bella Collection s The Ultimate Fashion Guide for Women, a work that aims at solving exactly the problems we have previously outlined. Relying on a precise taxonomy that comprises basically everything you need to know about clothing, body figures and the connection between the two aspects, this book is indeed, as its title suggests, the modern woman s guide to dress etiquette. There is no doubt that the right clothing can totally change our mood, offering a boost of self confidence that will materialize in a radiant glow and a positive attitude. When we look good, we feel good and that will never pass un-noticed. It is not vanity what leads women to their perpetual need to feel beautiful and attractive, to turn heads and elicit admiration, it is, just as I said, human nature. So why not look and feel good? Learning just a few fashion tips can totally change your perception on clothing and it will definitely change the way you dress. For the better, no doubt about it! Thank you for purchasing this book and giving yourself a chance to further improve your fashion knowledge and skills. Because, after all, fashion is not a gift given only to a few chosen ones, it is a skill, one that you can acquire in time by learning just a few things that have proven to be essential in creating your desired appearance All Rights Reserved 6

7 As another way of saying thank you, I am willing to share to you a series of my FREE e- books and articles for women empowerment inside and out. Download FREE Report by clicking Here To your fashion awareness and head-turning appearance, Aimee Wood All Rights Reserved 2015 All Rights Reserved 7

8 THE ULTIMATE FASHION GUIDE FOR WOMEN I. What Fashion is All About and a Brief History of It What is fashion? If we were to quote a dictionary definition, fashion is the prevailing custom, as in dress or behaviour; something, such as a garment, that is in the current mode, according to Or, according to fashion is a popular style or practice, especially in clothing, footwear, accessories, makeup, body piercing or furniture, a distinctive and often habitual trend in the style in which a person dresses and the prevailing styles in behaviour and the newest creations of textile designers Fashion No matter what definition you choose, and they are all correct, everyone agrees upon the fact that since the beginning of time people tried to reshape their bodies, using clothes and accessories as a way to beautify their appearance. Clothing became the best tool for 2015 All Rights Reserved 8

9 people to readjust their body according to their artistic imagination and making it to appear more elongated, shorter, thinner or bigger. Fashion has constantly evolved from time to time and country to country, fashion trends and styles have come and gone, were reinvented or forever forgotten. And while in the 1900 s, a fashion trend could last more than a hundred years, nowadays fashion changes super quick, sometimes overnight. Here are the main landmarks in fashion from the 1920 s to the 2000 s: Clothing became the best tool for people to readjust their body according to their artistic imagination and making it to appear more elongated, shorter, thinner or bigger. The 1920s: This was a truly revolutionary period in the history of fashion. The hem of the dresses became shorter, up to mid-calf, and corset dresses lost ground to flapper Flapper Style Dresses in 1920s 2015 All Rights Reserved 9

10 style dresses: loose and low-waisted dresses, opulent, fluid, decadent and sexy. The 1930s: These were the glam years when women clothing drew inspiration from the style of Hollywood stars, who wore shiny glam outfits such as white and silver satin dresses with plunging necklines in the back. Black Dress with Plunge Back in 1930s The 1940s: World War II came and completely changed the world of fashion. The shiny evening dresses were replaced with convenient and practical two-piece suits, as women were forced to work in factories while men were away at front All Rights Reserved 10

11 Practical two-piece suits for women in 1940s 2015 All Rights Reserved 11

12 The 1950s: Dior s legendary New Look collection brought the corset back in fashion, slimming down the waist while hips became wider to emphasize at best the hourglass figure. National Bellas Hess magazine in All Rights Reserved 12

13 The 1960s: Youth clothing became the main focus for fashion designers. Clothes were getting larger and the skirts shorter, while the corset is once again thrown into obscurity. It s the heyday of mini skirts and Pop Art fashion Lana Lobell 1962 current All Rights Reserved 13

14 The 1970s: The feminism wave was all over fashion. Flared pants were everywhere, jeans became a daily uniform and clothes were mainly made of lycra, plastic and polyester. Fashion and music went hand in hand and British designer Vivienne Westwood became the pioneer of punk fashion. Flared pants in 1970s 2015 All Rights Reserved 14

15 The 1980s: About this time, the career woman became the highlight of fashion and lifestyle, while Madonna was the biggest fashion icon. Designers used opulent colors to create oversized womenswear such as suits with big shoulder pads, very ample skirts, oversized earrings and puffed sleeves. Oversized women s wear & oversized earrings in 1980s 2015 All Rights Reserved 15

16 The 1990s: This is when all the major fashion trends we follow at present were established. Music became once again a big fashion influence, especially in terms of street style. Grunge and hip hop styles were on a roll, while Kate Moss became the main fashion icon. Grunge style outfit in 1990s 2015 All Rights Reserved 16

17 The 2000s: We now enter the so-called Internet age. There is still a major interest in fashion, but there are no more major trends to arise in the world of fashion. Everything is reinterpreted, reinvented, while online shops make exclusive brands accessible to all of us. Ralph Lauren Collection, 2000s Fashion 2015 All Rights Reserved 17

18 II. How Can Fashion Help Your Personality Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, as the saying goes. But unfortunately, we live in a world where looks have become very important. The way you wear your clothes, accessories, makeup and hair is the first thing people notice about you. And as superficial as it sounds, they do judge a book by its cover. It s human nature... The good news is you can always rely on the right clothes and accessories in order to make you look and feel beautiful. You just need to find the ones that accentuate your best features and conceal what you like to hide. Also, it is very important to choose those clothes and accessories that best reflect your personality. Don t be a slave to fashion who pays attention only to what designers and trend setters dictate. You must choose, from the variety of trends and styles out there, the ones that really describe you and your way of being. Sure, you need to be familiar with the latest fashion trends in order to permanently reinvent your look, but you don t have to follow fashion down to the last detail. Borrow a bit from here, a bit from there and create the outfit that represents YOU and, beyond Don t be a slave to fashion who pays attention only to what designers and trend setters dictate... choose the ones that really describe you and your way of being. what s in or out, matches and expresses your personality. How to choose the exact clothes and accessories that flatter best your personality? Well, there is a concept in fashion, named fashion personality, that can help you quite a lot. Experts have come out with five fashion personality types. See where you fit in and what to do in order to choose 2015 All Rights Reserved 18

19 every day the best outfit for you and your personality: The Classic Fashion Personality If you love Audrey Hepburn and you are drawn to timeless and simple clothing, then you are a classic fashion personality. Classic style is the basic of chic fashion and a sign of grace and tasteful style. Your closet essentials should be: ballet flats, riding boots, navy-striped tops, blazers, V- neck tops, shift dresses, plaid shirts, pearl, classic gold and silver jewelry, oversized sunglasses and tote handbags. Styling tips: As classic style tends to become boring and predictable, try to spice things up by wearing your essentials in bold colors instead of the usual classic neutral shades. Audrey Hepburn The Sporty Fashion Personality If you like to keep it simple and wear comfortable, low-key and easy-to-maintain clothes, then you are a sporty fashion personality. Casual-sport style is what defines you best, but you also flirt with bohemian and preppy styles. Your closet essentials should be: comfortable pants (like boyfriend and baggy jeans, or cargo pants), casual T-shirts, tank tops and jackets, sweatshirts, sporty footwear (like sneakers), jewelry made of natural materials, shoulder bags and backpacks. Styling tips: Your simple low-key style might sometimes make you look sloppy. Try to add some feminine touch to your outfit, like a tight pencil skirt to go with our basic tees 2015 All Rights Reserved 19

20 collection and sneakers. Choose from time to time bold colored or oversized accessories. They can do wonders when paired with your relaxed casual look! The Dramatic Fashion Personality If you love standing out in the crowd, have a flair for high fashion and you are drawn to the boldest trends, then you are a dramatic fashion personality. Your closet essentials should be: bright colored clothes and accessories, jackets with prominent shoulders, bold jewelry (like bracelet cuffs and bangles, Art Deco-inspired jewelry), statement pumps, leopard prints and wide belts. Styling tips: Your fashion boldness can make you look over-the-top sometimes, so you need to tone it down a little. You can add some basic or softer details to your sensual sophisticated outfits. Wear only one statement piece of clothing or accessory at a time. The Trendy Fashion Personality If you like to wear all kinds of trends and your style is always up-to-date, from glam to punk-rock and grunge, then you are a trendy fashion personality. Your closet essentials should be: skinny and ripped jeans, graphic T-shirts, jumpsuits, fashionable leggings, baseball jackets, hoodies, platform and chunky sandals, beanie and fedora hats, wide belts and pendant chain necklaces. Styling tips: With all these modern trends you approach, there is a risk people might see you as a slave to fashion. Insert a subtle classic touch in your outfits, like wearing straight-cut pants instead of skinny jeans from time to time All Rights Reserved 20

21 The Creative Fashion Personality If you usually opt for laid-back outfits in bohemian style or inspired by the vintage s, you are a creative fashion personality. Your closet essentials should be: vintage-inspired accessories, printed clothes and accessories (especially leopard print), graphic T-shirts, oxford shoes, multi-layered jewelry. Styling tips: If you are a petite woman, don t exaggerate with the layers and quirky details or you ll risk looking shorter. Use some basic clothing and accessories, like classic high heels, in order to achieve a chic look. No matter what fashion personality you are, always remember the way you dress speaks a lot about the kind of person you are. So choose carefully what you want to transmit to others about yourself and use fashion in your own advantage. Be fashionable, but always be yourself! III. Face Shapes and Necklines That Flatter Each Shape Every person s face is unique, but theoretically there are seven basic face shapes. Knowing your exact face shape helps you identify what makeup, hairstyle and clothes you should choose in order to enhance your best facial features and disguise the disproportions. Here is a simple way to find out which category you fit in: use a ruler, measure the length of your face from the top of your head to the tip of your chin (AB), measure as if your face is flat, divide the number by 3 (AB 3). Then measure the length from the bottom of your nose to the tip of your chin (CD) - this number represents one third of the length of Knowing your exact face shape helps you identify what makeup, hairstyle and clothes you should choose in order to enhance your best facial features and disguise the disproportions All Rights Reserved 21

22 your face, as the length of face is divided into 3 sections upper part, middle part and lower part. If CD is bigger than AB 3, you have an oblong or diamond face. If CD is smaller than AB 3, you have a round or square face. If CD and AB 3 are equal, you have an oval, heart or triangle face. Below is a sample illustration and computation: Once you know what face shape you have, make yourself familiar with your facial characteristics and learn how to balance them with the neckline of your clothing. This way you can create the illusion of the perfect face! 2015 All Rights Reserved 22

23 Oval face This is considered to be the ideal face shape, as it is well-balanced, not too sharp or angular, nor too rounded or full. The forehead is wider than the chin, the cheekbones are slightly prominent and the face delicately narrows towards the chin, which is narrow and oval. As this is the ideal face shape, you can choose clothing with any type of necklines, from V-necks, sweetheart and cowl necks, to Sabrina, Queen Anne and Empire necklines. Round face This face is as wide as it is long, a little narrower at the forehead and jaw line, and its widest point is across the cheekbones. So, the perfect collar should elongate the face in order to make her look more oval. The V-neck is definitely the most flattering for a 2015 All Rights Reserved 23

24 round face, but there are also other types of necklines that can give the face a vertical space to de-emphasize the roundness: sweetheart and scoop necks, Queen Anne and Empire necklines. What you should always avoid are high neck blouses, as they tend to hide the neck and therefore make your face look even more round. Square face This is one of the most common face shapes (along with the round face). The jaw line is square and the forehead, cheekbones and jaw have the same width. The square face is slightly angular, so it needs curves to draw attention from the angles. Necklines that best flatter the square face face must have a vertical shape, so look for scoop necks, Sabrina, sweetheart and cowl neck styles. What you should always avoid is the square neckline. Triangle face (or pear shaped face) The triangle face is widest at the jaw line and narrower at the forehead. Just like the square face, the triangle face needs curves to balance out the angles, so what you should do is sweeten the jaw line with sweeping collars that have a stronger vertical shape: cowl necks, Sabrina neckline, scoop necks and sweetheart necklines. On the other side, you must avoid high or wide collars, as they add volume to the neck and make you look unbalanced in comparison to your forehead. Heart shaped face (or inverted triangle face) This face is the opposite of the triangle face and it has almost the same characteristics as the oval face (narrow and oval chin, slightly prominent cheekbones, forehead wider than the chin), but the chin is much more sharp. In order to make your face appear wider, look for collars that draw a horizontal line near the neckline: high necks, wide necklines and roll-necks (only if your neck is not too short or wide) All Rights Reserved 24

25 Oblong face (or rectangular face) The oblong face has similar features as the square face, but it s longer. The forehead, cheekbones and jaw line have the same width, the chin is prominent and the face has an elongated appearance. The oblong face needs necklines that create a horizontal space in order to balance the elongation of the face and make it appear wider and more oval. So, look for turtlenecks, cowl necks, round and wide necklines. Also, collars that end close to the neck widen your face, so neck styles as Sabrina or portrait are a safe bet. What you should always avoid is the V-neckline, as it will make your face appear even more elongated. Diamond shaped face The diamond shaped face is not very common. It s a combination between the oval face and the heart shaped face, but with a narrower forehead. The cheekbones are wide, the forehead is small and narrow, the face is wider at the temples and narrows gently towards the chin. What you need to do in order to balance your facial features is to add volume to the forehead and jaw line and, at the same time, avoid fullness at the cheekbones area. So look for wide and round collars, such as scoop necks, Sabrina and sweetheart necklines, and always avoid V-necks, as they will only accentuate the narrowness of the jaw. IV. Types of Necklines and the Facial Features They Highlight The neckline of the dress or blouse you are wearing can visually correct proportions. So, unless Mother Nature has given you the ideal oval face shape (which goes with all types of collars), you need to correctly choose the neckline if you want to highlight your best facial features. As basic The neckline of the dress or blouse you are wearing can visually correct proportions All Rights Reserved 25

26 rules, the oblong face can be sweetened with a curved wide neckline, while the round face can be elongated by a vertical shaped neckline. Here are some of the most popular necklines and what face shape they suit best: Scoop neckline The scoop neck is round, displays the collarbone and ends below the base of the neck. Since it has the shape of a semi-circle or the U letter, scoop necks are very similar with U-necks, but they usually have a much deeper cut. The scoop neckline can be seen on all kinds of clothing, from T-shirts to evening dress and it flatters all silhouettes and face shapes, as it beautifully displays the collarbone and has the power to elongate the neck. L Low-Scoop neckline Sabrina neckline This is a beautiful classic neckline reminding us of great fashion icons such as Jackie Kennedy and Audrey Hepburn. The Sabrina neckline runs horizontally across the collarbone, from the inner tips of the shoulders, with equal depth in the front and the back. This style is very similar to the bateau neckline (or boat neck), only it is more curved and has a narrower opening. The Sabrina neckline can also be confused with the portrait neckline, which has a wide gentle curve from one shoulder blade to the other. The Sabrina neckline creates an elegant look and can be seen on Sabrina neckline both casual and formal clothing, such as cocktail and evening 2015 All Rights Reserved 26

27 dresses. Pear shaped women are best flattered by this type of neckline, thanks to its ability to create a balance between the upper half and lower body. Also, triangle faces will appear more proportional if they are paired with a Sabrina neckline. The Sabrina neckline suits: oval, square, triangle and diamond faces. V-neckline The V-neck consists of two diagonal lines from the shoulders that reunite on the chest, creating a V shape. This gives vertical impression to the outfit, that s why V-necks create leaner and longer silhouettes. They are appropriate for all body shapes, as they create a balanced look, enhance the neck and highlight the face. Women with broad shoulders, thick torsos or short necks should definitely opt for V-neck tops and dresses. Also, a square face will look softer and a round face will appear elongated if the top s collar is V-neck shaped. The V-neck suits: oval, round and square faces, never a diamond or oblong face. V-neckline Cowl neck The cowl neck is a high loose-fitting turnover collar that drapes below the collarbone. The beauty of this collar is that you can shape it in various stylish ways: you can straighten the cowl neck into a boat neckline by pulling the fabric up over the collarbone and toward the shoulders; or you can stretch it over the back of the head to form a hood. The cowl neck is a great way to add volume to the bust area, so Cowl neckline women with small breasts should consider it when choosing 2015 All Rights Reserved 27

28 the most flattering dresses and blouses. The cowl neck suits: oval, square, triangle and oblong faces. Sweetheart neckline Just like the name suggests, this neckline comes in the shape of a heart. There are two downwardly concave pieces of fabric that end up looking like a sweetheart, reaching high over the breasts. The big advantage of this neckline is that it can visually elongate the face and give a proportional balance to the whole silhouette. Not to mention it draws attention to the bust area, creating the illusion of bigger breasts and helping you approach a sexy look without showing too much of your cleavage. The sweetheart neckline is very popular with evening dresses and wedding gowns. You should definitely opt for it if Sweetheart neckline you have a generous bust and angular face, as the gentle curves of the collar can sweeten the angles of the face. This means you get no advantage from the sweetheart neckline only if you have small breasts; otherwise, all figures are flattered by this beautiful elegant neckline. The sweetheart neckline suits: oval, round, square, triangle, heart and diamond shaped faces All Rights Reserved 28

29 Square (or Empire neckline) This generous elegant neckline draws attention to a big part of your bust s empire, hence the name. It has a squarish shape, meaning it draws a horizontal line on the upper body that can make your face appear wider and more oval. So if you have an oblong face or short neck, you can always rely on the Empire neckline to balance the elongation of the face and the shortness of the neck. You only need to pay attention to the size of the bust; if you have a small one, you should not draw attention to it. The same interdiction applies to big breasts - this neckline will only make them look ready to explode. A medium-size bust is the best fit for this classic elegant neckline. Square Neckline The Square neckline suits: oval, oblong and round faces. Queen Anne neckline As the name suggests, this was Britain's Queen Anne favorite neckline. The neckline is raised on the back, while the front and chest are partially discovered. This is a revealing formal neckline with a royal touch that flatters small chested and narrow shouldered women. It s not recommended for women with broad shoulders, as the Queen Anne neckline tends to create an even wider upper body, while petite women would only look overwhelmed by too much fabric. Queen Anne Neckline The Queen Anne neckline suits: oval and round faces All Rights Reserved 29

30 Turtle (or High neckline) Turtlenecks need special attention as they can create the socalled floating head effect, where the head looks detached from the body. In order to avoid this, you need to make sure there is enough space between the top of the neck and your chin (a couple of inches should do the trick). The high neck has an extended tight-fitting collar that adds volume to the neck area, so women with long neck and narrow shoulders are best flattered by this type of neckline. On the other hand, high necks make the face look wider, so you should not choose to wear turtlenecks if you already have a round, square or triangle face. The high neck suits: oval, oblong, heart shaped faces. Turtle Neckline Halter neckline Halter neckline consists of band extending from the front of the garment or straps tied behind the neck to hold the front of the garment up and comes in different styles. This is a revealing neckline as it exposes the shoulders, arms and back, so women with broad shoulders will look good with it. Halter necklines flatters women with average to small busts while it will look very provocative for women with generous busts. Women with thin figures and narrow shoulders should avoid this neckline, as this can emphasize how small you are. The Halter neckline suits: oval, round and square faces. Halter neckline 2015 All Rights Reserved 30

31 V. Types of Tops for Women As fashion trends come and go and then come around again. Tops are less susceptible to fashion changes, however, although padded shoulders may be the exception. A top is a garment for the upper body, usually covering from shoulders down to the waistline or hips. In general, the design of tops are classics; they never go out of fashion. It is highly probable that you have most of the tops described below in your closet right now. Many of the popular tops today have their origins in a bygone era, but with a little tweaking they rock just as hard now as they did then. Below you will find some of the tops that have become popular in turn for one reason or another All Rights Reserved 31

32 T-shirt As you can easily imagine, T-shirt gets its name from its shape, which approximates the T-shape of the body plus sleeves. T-shirts are usually short-sleeved with a round neckline and without a collar (crew neck), and made of soft cotton in a jersey stitch. Most modern T-shirts have no side-seams; they are made of a continuous tube of cloth with the sleeves added. T-shirt started its life in society as something worn under something else. It was the top part of the union suit undergarments worn by miners and stevedores in the 19 th century. The union suit used to be one piece but wiser heads decided it would be easier to wear if it was divided into two. The US Navy decided to issue these undershirts to soldiers during the Spanish-American War. The soldiers could then remove their uniforms while in work parties to keep them from getting dirty. Or roasting them alive, for that matter. Because it was so comfortable and inexpensive, it became a sort of uniform for industrial workers and young boys. Today, T-shirt is a popular medium for self-expression. The 1970s created a whole slew of memorable T-shirts with iconic pop culture symbols such as the yellow smiley, the peace sign, the giant lips and tongue of the Rolling Stones, and "I N Y. Plain white T- shirts were made more popular as a fashion statement when Don Johnson wore one under his Armani suit in the 1980s TV series Miami Vice. Racerback top The racerback top looks athletic, and that is because it started out as a support undergarment for women. It is made of many kinds of material and different styles, but they all have the distinctive cut that leaves most of the shoulders and shoulder blades exposed. The cut allows freer movement and warmth to the wearer, which is why it is a popular design for athletic wear All Rights Reserved 32

33 The racerback top is usually form-fitting, so it is ideal for women with no extraneous fat on their torsos and toned arms (think Angelie Jolie in Tomb Raider). However, it is the perfect top for pairing with a sweater or blouse, because the exposed shoulders keep the armpits from getting too warm while keeping the wearer comfortable in chilly weather. Aside from being ideal for sports, racerback tops are also sexy, so they are appropriate for informal or formal dress. The appropriateness of the top will depend on the material and what it is paired with. A cotton top paired with jeans is good for going to the mall, while a silk racerback top with a long skirt can be formal enough for a wedding or official function. Tank tops The tank top shares the same history as most undergarments that became outer garments; it was just convenient. The name tank top may have been derived from its beginnings as the upper half of the one-piece tank suits used in swimming. It may also have been adopted from the leather tank top used to protect the neck of metal workers in the military from flying molten metal. Tank top is primarily a sleeveless shirt with large armholes and a low neckline. It began its career as a fashion trend most notably in 1934 when Clark Gable stripped off his shirt in the film It Happened one Night. It was considered unseemly back then and the tank top became associated with male brutishness, hence its nickname the wife-beater. Nevertheless, the sleeveless wonder is undeniably a sexy top worn by both men and women as casual wear in hot weather, or for exercise. It may also be used for formal wear for women with the appropriate material such as silk. Tank tops may sport wide, medium-width, or spaghetti straps. It may also have halter straps, where the straps meet around the neck instead of looping over the shoulders All Rights Reserved 33

34 Because of the large armholes, women who wear tank tops normally have a more form fitting garment underneath such as a racerback top. It is suitable for people of all body shapes, although flabby arms may make it look less than attractive. Corset tops A corset top is an adaptation of an undergarment called a corset, which is a stiffened piece of clothing designed to create a well-defined torso for women. The corset typically begins at the bosom and ends at the waist, with a V-shaped extension in the front for a slimming effect. The traditional corset is laced so that the ends of the garment may be pulled together. Corset is a French term that means a laced bodice. It became popular in Europe in the 16 th century when a small waist was fashionable. Today s corset top is similar in appearance and usually worn to emphasize curves and a small waist. It surged in popularity when Madonna wore it in public; prior to that it was worn mostly in the bedroom or as an undergarment to provide support for the bust. Corset tops today continue to exude sexuality. It can be used for parties and special occasions, and it is ideal for top-heavy women who want to look slim, or for women with an hour-glass figure. The corset top can also be used on top of a loose blouse with full sleeves for a sweet effect. Off-Shoulder The off-shoulder top became fashionable in the 1830s when full skirts and small waists were in fashion. It brought attention to smooth shoulders and small waists, and it was considered fashionable for dinner time. Today, off shoulder tops are worn by women to widen narrow shoulders, emphasize a long neck, and show some skin without being considered risqué. The neckline is usually a smooth wide band with no sleeves, or ruffles. Off-shoulder tops may also end in short or long sleeves. It goes equally well with jeans and skirts, and it can be worn for casual as well as formal occasions, again depending on the style and the material All Rights Reserved 34

35 Cropped top Children of the 80s will be gratified to know that it was during their time that the cropped top became a fashion scandal and sensation. It was 1983 and Madonna made waves by coming out with the Lucky Star music video in a mesh crop top that showed off her midriff. The cropped top was also featured in the iconic scenes of the movie Flashdance which sparked the global aerobics craze. The cropped top is basically a short T-shirt which exposes the midriff. It is also called a cut-off shirt, a midriff top and a top shirt. It can be worn over a racerback top or tank top or on its own. It was popularly worn in the 1980s with a wide round neckline so that it falls off the shoulder on one side, rather like a lopsided off-shoulder top. It is a good way to show off a nice tummy for both men and women, although cropped tops for men are not as trendy. It is typically used for casual wear, going to bars, and exercise. Henley A Henley top or shirt is a collarless pullover shirt with a round neck and an opening with buttons in the front called placket. It is typically made of some type of cotton fabric, and may have short or long sleeves. Men traditionally wear it but the versions for women make them look very attractive as well. It is called a Henley shirt because it was what competition rowers from the town of Henley-on-Thames wear during races. The town is well known for rowing, culminating each summer in the Henley Royal Regatta. It became fashionable in the 1970s and is currently enjoying a global resurgence. Henley tops are appropriate for casual wear worn over jeans or shorts, and come in many designs and sizes to flatter most body types. The long-sleeved version has a slimming effect, so it may look better on heavyset individuals All Rights Reserved 35

36 Polo top The polo top is similar to the Henley top except that it has a collar. It is also called a polo shirt, golf shirt, or tennis shirt because it is often worn on the green or court. Back in the day, tennis players wore long-sleeved tennis whites (also called polo shirts because it was first used by polo players) that had to be rolled back during a game. Tennis champion Rene Lacoste (called The Crocodile) designed a short-sleeved shirt where the back was longer than the front, had a collar and buttoned placket and wore it in the 1926 U.S. Open Championship. He began putting a crocodile emblem on the left side of the shirt as a reference to his nickname. Lacoste retired as a player in 1933 and started a clothing business to market his tennis shirt although tennis players continue to refer to it as a polo shirt. The polo top is usually made of knitted cotton and it is slightly thicker than the Henley top. The polo top may also be made of silk, wool or synthetic fiber. Women also wear polo tops, and they also have a long version called a polo dress. Polo shirts are appropriate for casual wear and office use because it is loose and comfortable, but the presence of the collar makes it a little dressier than a T-shirt. Like a T-shirt, they come in a wide range of designs and cuts so it can be flattering to any body type. Poncho Needless to say, poncho tops were inspired by the ponchos typically worn by Native Americans to keep warm on cold nights and keep dry during rainy days. The word poncho means blanket in Quechua (a native language in South America) and this type of outer garments has been around since before the time of the Incas. The simplest poncho is a large piece of heavy cloth with a hole in the middle for the head. It is very versatile and useful, so much so that the military considers it part of a soldier s essential gear. The military has its own version of a poncho with a hood for use in jungle warfare All Rights Reserved 36

37 Poncho tops are similar in style but often made of lighter material. They are meant to be fashionable, and are often festive and colorful. Women of any body type wear poncho tops as an outer garment suitable for any occasion. Men who want to reenact the role of Clint Eastwood in The Good, the Bad and the Ugly may also be tempted to borrow one. Halter Halter top does not have sleeves or over-the-shoulder straps, just two strings that go behind the neck. It reveals the shoulder blades, arms and back, best for women with toned arms and shoulders. It was a style introduced by a French, fashion designer Madeleine Vionnet in 1920s. It is considered a provocative garment as it shows more skin, perfect for a sexy casual look during hot weather. Wrap As the name suggests, it is worn by wrapping around the body forming an over-lapped front, creating a V- shape neckline. Wrap top is usually tied with a band to one side. Also called surplice blouse. Can be used as casual or formal wear. See chapter VIII for more details. VI. Common Types of Jackets, Sweaters and Coats Jackets, sweaters and coats are essential in every woman s wardrobe, as can you wear them day in and day out, night after night, at all occasions and with a multitude of outfits. Although we use jackets and coats as synonyms, they are actually different clothing items, but the only difference between them consists in the length of the garment: coats are theoretically longer than jackets. As for sweaters, they are knitted garments that cover the torso and arms, made from wool, cotton or synthetic fibers All Rights Reserved 37

38 They can have an open front and be called cardigans, or pullovers, if the sweater does not open at the front. Jackets, sweaters or coats, long or short, large or tight-fitting, the most important thing is to know how to choose the perfect cut and style for your body shape. Here are the basic styling tips you need to consider every time you choose your top clothing: Pear shaped silhouettes (narrow shoulders, wide hips) need jackets and coats that can add volume to the shoulders. So, look for items with voluminous collars, shoulder pads, epaulets, wide lapels or double-breasted styles. At the same time, it s important to keep the bottom half of the coat slim and simple and to emphasize your waist (use a belt, if the jacket s cut is not already defining the waist). Inverted triangle silhouettes (broad shoulders, tiny hips) need outwear that creates softer shoulders and broader hips. Look for straight line or flared jackets with lower pockets and vents in the back, as well as mid-hip or longer coats with V-necks, narrow collars or small lapels. In order to balance the shoulders, a detailed hem can do wonders. Rectangle silhouettes (no waist, straight shoulders, hips and bottom) need clothing that can create the illusion of waist. So opt for structured and shaped jackets with round lapels or neckline and straight-cut coats with a defined waist, such as empire style coats. Apple shaped silhouettes (fullness on the waist, round shoulders, flat bottom) need jackets and coats that keep the middle section of the body plain and simple, but come with details above the bust and below the hips. So look for empire or straight line jackets that hang from the shoulders, with deep necklines and the top button placed under the bust. Coats should have A-line cuts, big lapels, shoulder pads and vents in the back (think cardigan). Hourglass silhouettes are blessed with the most feminine curves, so they can look great in any type of jackets and coats, as long as they have some shape at the waist or a belt All Rights Reserved 38

39 Large bulky outwear that doesn t follow the body lines is to be avoided, as it is hiding your best assets - the perfect waist and harmonious curves. With these styling tips in mind, here are the trendiest jackets and coats you should consider when choosing your stylish outfits: Blazer Also known as boating jacket, the blazer was originally designed for men and schoolboys outfits in the 19 th century, in the UK, but have become must-have clothing items for both men and women in the last years. The blazer takes its roots from the office and military wear, but it s more casual than a suit coat and less rough than a military uniform. It can be single or double breasted and usually comes Blazer with pockets and metal buttons. Classic blazers are black or navy, but nowadays you can find them in any color, from white and pastels to bright shades, and all kinds of prints. They are stylish, elegant and versatile, suitable for both casual and formal occasions, depending on the accessories you choose to pair them with. For example, you wear your blazer with T-shirts or even hoodies, skinny, straight or boyfriend jeans and sneakers, you will have the perfect casual-sport outfit. If you want to glam this up, choose high heels shoes or ankle boots. The blazer-maxi dress combination is also very modern and chic. For an elegant office look, try a smart-chic combination with simple shirts, tapered, cropped or straight-cut pants (or pencil skirts) and some statement jewelry. Mid or high-heels are required in order to maintain the business-like approach All Rights Reserved 39

40 As for party looks, wear your blazer with a fancy sequined or lace mini dress and sexy high heels, or look for a glam blazer with sequins or metal applications or details that will help you steal the show. Windbreaker and Parka jacket These two jackets are designed with similar purposes: the windbreaker is meant to protect from the wind and rain, while the parka is much heavier and designed for colder weather conditions. The windbreaker is suitable for spring and autumn, when there s a lot of wind and rain, while the parka is suitable for winter time with snow and frost. The windbreaker is made of thin synthetic materials, the parka comes with heavier fabrics and often fur, but both of them have hoodies, removable or not. The windbreaker doesn t necessarily have zippers or buttons, while the parka always has a zip up front. Windbreaker Parka Jacket When it comes to styling, the windbreaker stays in the casual-sport area and it looks best if paired with sporty shoes such as sneakers or wellies. Being a functional garment, it s difficult to stand out wearing a windbreaker, so try to add some stylish flash of color to your outfit using colored pants or footwear, or find yourself a nice light or bright colored windbreaker. As for the parka, there are so many ways you can rock this fashionable trendy jacket! Military parkas are especially on a roll - this means slightly oversized coats in washed out 2015 All Rights Reserved 40

41 green shades with fur trimming. For a cool and relaxed daywear, you can pair your parka with boyfriend jeans (or even denim shorts), simple casual tops and chunky ankle boots. For a dressier approach, opt for wide-leg pants, classic shirts and mid-heel shoes. You can also try to add an edgier twist to your office outfit, by pairing the parka with a shift dress, ankle or high leather boots and some feminine accessories. A must-try parka outfit is the grunge inspired one, with biker boots, skinny jeans or leather pants and some rock printed T-shirts. Cardigan This is a type of sweater that opens up in the front and has buttons, zippers or hooks - although some modern cardigans have no buttons and hang open by design. Cardigans are considered to have originated from the hand-knitted woolen sweaters British and French fishermen wore in the 17 th century. Nowadays, they are designed for both women and men and made from other fabrics too, from cotton and cashmere, to polyester and lycra. Depending on the cuts and fabrics, this type of sweater can be either casual or dressy, suitable for semi-formal or formal events, as well as for laid back every day outfits. You can wear it instead of a jacket or as a cape for a super classic look, while layering a longer length cardigan with a cropped leather jacket creates a fashionable rock-chic attire. Cardigan If the cardigan is kind of shapeless, a simple trick to create the perfect hourglass silhouette is to add a belt that highlights the waist. In order to balance proportions, pair the belted cardigan with an oversized handbag, skinny jeans, leggings or tight-fitting skirts, if the cardigan is long and voluminous, or choose wide-leg or flared pants, A-line or maxi-skirts and one statement accessory if the cardigan is shorter, thin and gently follows the body line All Rights Reserved 41

42 The very popular oversized cardigan can make you look thinner and taller if paired with skinny jeans, leather pants or legging and high heel shoes, while the classic waist-length cardigan looks great with high-waisted skirts and pants (pencil or A-line) and fit or flare dresses. Bolero jacket This feminine mini-jacket is derived from the tailored Spanish coats commonly worn by bullfighters. Boleros are short cropped jackets with an open front and sleeves of any length, from full to quarter length. They cover only the shoulders and arms, leaving the waist Bolero and hips exposed, therefore boleros a great way to highlight the waist and balance the body in order to create the ideal hourglass silhouette. Also, they can disguise problem areas like heavy upper arms or generally a wide upper body. Boleros are suitable for all formal events, especially weddings, but also for casual gatherings. If you look for a formal chic outfit, opt for sophisticated fabrics such as silk, satin, lace or fur. Pair the elegant bolero with cocktail or evening dresses (especially empire-waist styles), or formal skirts and pants with A-line or straight cuts. For a nice wedding outfit, pair your gown with a taffeta or lace bolero jacket. When it comes to casual events, look for boleros made of jersey, cotton, wool, linen or denim and create some modern stylish outfits with skinny jeans and ladylike tops, waistline dresses or maxi skirts with tight tops. A black bolero is not only suitable for casual outfits, but it can also break up color block outfits in order to balance your appearance All Rights Reserved 42

43 Trench coat The trench coat is a classic elegant coat inspired from the World War I military uniforms (the name trench refers to the trenches used for military engagement during the war). Traditionally, the trench coat was at least knee-length, made of gabardine, water resistant, usually belted, with large lapels, belted cuffs, epaulets on the shoulder and ten metal buttons arranged in two rows. Nowadays, Trench Coat there are various styles of trench coats in all colors, lengths, fabrics and styles. If you want the most fashionable and versatile coat out there, choose the trench coat. It s classy, elegant, flatters all silhouettes and can create both casual and formal outfits. For instance, you can pull off the perfect urban-chic look by matching your trench coat with high heels, skinny jeans and casual T-shirts. For a trendy approach of the formal office style, wear a shirt underneath a cardigan and complete the look with tailored pants, pumps and a nude trench coat. On special occasions, wear the trench coat over a little black dress and glam up the outfit with golden jewelry, while the perfect date night outfit should consist of sexy high heels, sparkling mini-dress, minimal clutch and a dark colored trench coat. Don t hesitate to use the belt of the trench in order to create the illusion of an hourglass silhouette; you will look taller and leaner, especially if you wear pumps or high heels, skinny jeans, cropped pants, tight-fitting bandage or pencil skirts. But trench coats look great with sneakers too, provided the rest of the outfit is also casual sport (classic T- shirts, turtlenecks, denim shorts, skinny jeans, shoulder bags etc). Last but not least, try the very popular military inspired look, by pairing your favorite trench coat with tapered or skinny jeans, graphic T-shirts and lace-up boots All Rights Reserved 43

44 VII. Types of Skirts and Pants - How They Can Balance Your Body Proportions Skirts and pants are such versatile garments! Except for formal weddings and balls, you can wear them basically everywhere, at any occasion, no matter the time of the day, the season or the style the event requires. These must-have items can do wonders when it comes to properly balance the proportions of your body. With the right skirt or pair of pants, Skirts are must-have items that can do wonders to properly balance the proportions of your body. you can elongate your stature, slim down your waist, emphasize your hips or draw attention to the upper half of your body. All you need to know is what skirt and pants cut works best for your body shape. Here are some of the most popular skirts and pants in today s fashion and what type of body shape each of them flatters best: SKIRTS A-line skirt Designed in the shape of an A letter, this skirt is very popular amongst curvier women as it draws attention to the hips and emphasizes the waist. It is smaller at the waist, then widens evenly as it reaches towards the ground. The length of the skirt can end at the knee, calf or ankle. Either way, A-line skirts belong to casual and semi-dressy styles, as formal A-line skirt events dress codes require fancier outfits with dresses and gowns All Rights Reserved 44

45 You should definitely choose A-line skirts if you have a pear shaped body, as the A-line cut accentuates the waist and de-emphasizes the width of your lower body. The inverted triangle silhouette will also look great, as the skirt s wide hemline adds volume on the hips in order to balance the upper body. Also, the wider the hem, the narrower your waist will appear, so the A-line skirt is great for apple shaped women too. On the other hand, you should avoid it if you have a rectangular silhouette, because your bottom will only look flatter. Straight skirt Straight skirts are fitted at the waist just like A-line skirts, but they maintain the same width from the waistline to the hem. They are also similar to pencil skirts, only they are less tight and loose at the knees. Straight skirts can be ankle or knee-length and, depending on the fabric, they can look classic, dressy or formal. They are very popular when it comes to suits and other office outfits. As for the silhouettes, the straight skirt flatters all of them, except for the very full or very slim ones. On fuller figures, it Straight skirt will only create a top-heavy, unbalanced look, while a skinny silhouette will appear narrower and less curvier when dressed in a straight skirt. On the other hand, the hourglass body shape looks flawless in straight skirts, as well as pear shaped silhouettes, as the straight cut of the skirt can balance the hips with the narrower upper body. Pleated skirt This is a casual or semi-formal skirt that comes with vertical pleats up and down the skirt and all the way around. It can have various lengths, but usually the pleated skirt reaches the knee or the above knee. What you need to keep in mind is that pleats add bulk to the lower half of the body. Therefore, they are not recommended for women with 2015 All Rights Reserved 45

46 pear shaped silhouettes - the pleats draw attention upon the hips, therefore the upper body will appear even narrower. Apple shaped women could be facing the same problem, nevertheless the pleated skirt can help them disguise the belly. The body shapes that are most flattered by pleated skirts are the rectangle and the inverted triangle one. Pleats add definition to the lower body, so rectangle silhouettes will appear more feminine, while for the inverted triangular figure, the pleated skirt can help balance out the small hips and thighs. Needless to say, the hourglass silhouette will look flawless and curvier when dressed in pleated skirts. Pleated skirt 2015 All Rights Reserved 46

47 Pencil skirt This is the skirt that best hugs the body. Tight-fitted from the waistline down to the knee or mid-calf, the pencil skirt comes in stretch materials to best enhance all the body s curves and shapes. They are dressy, formal and very sensual, as they follow closely the waistline, hips and thighs. Pencil skirts are very similar to tube skirts, except they are usually longer, running down to the knee or ankle. As they beautifully accentuate the curves and smoothen out thighs, pencil skirts are great for hourglass shaped women. Pencil skirt Their feminine curves and well-defined waist will be perfectly highlighted by the tight straight cut of the skirt. Women with a pear shaped body can also pull off this look, as the pencil skirt gently caresses the hips and emphasizes the waist while elongating the body. High heels are required in order to create the perfect thin and tall appearance! Bandage skirt Designed with strips of stretchy fabrics, just like the bodycon dress and the pencil skirt, the bandage skirt is super tight on the body, revealing every curve and shape. It s super sexy and provocative, but comfortable like a second skin and also very versatile. You can mix and match with various accessories in order to create trendy outfits for every occasion: pair the bandage skirt with a T-shirt, flats and Bandage skirt (with upper layer design) statement jewelry for a charming casual outfit; opt for a conservative shirt, opaque tights and classic high heels for a trendy professional attire, and wear the bandage skirt with a sequined top, stiletto ankle boots and metallic clutch for a sexy glamour party outfit All Rights Reserved 47

48 Unfortunately, as versatile and comfortable as it is, the bandage skirt does not flatter all silhouettes, only the hourglass body shape (which has the perfect proportions, and they will be even more accentuated by the form-fitting skirt) and the rectangle silhouette (in which case, the waist needs to be further highlighted by wearing a fitting belt, for example). Peplum skirt If you want to best emphasize your waist and show off your curves, there is no better option than the peplum skirt. The peplum is a short overskirt attached to the waist of the skirt. It s fun, trendy, feminine and suits all body shapes except the pear shaped one, as you don t want to add even more volume to your wide hips. Otherwise, if you have a hourglass figure, it will further accentuate your perfect body line; if you have a rectangle, inverted triangle Peplum skirt or apple shaped silhouette, the peplum skirt will make your thighs and hips look more curvaceous and help you balance out the upper half of the body. When choosing a peplum skirt, make sure the fabric stretches and the skirt is well fitted. Pencil skirts look great with peplums, but you can choose any other cut that follows tightly your waist and legs. Avoid A-lines and other non-fitted skirts, as they reduce the glamour of the curve-enhancing peplum. You can highlight your midsection even more and make it look even slimmer by wearing a belt with the peplum skirt. Peplum skirts are rather formal than casual, so you can use them to create fashionable office outfits with similar colored skirts or blouses and mid-heel elegant shoes. For a night out, go for a mini peplum skirt with a molded top, high heels and metallic accessories. You ll look ravishing sexy and stylish! 2015 All Rights Reserved 48

49 Balloon skirt Also known as the bubble skirt, this is a type of skirt that has the shape of a balloon and the pattern consisting of three components: a waistband, a longer, extra wide outer layer and a shorter inner layer. Balloon skirts are usually mini or mid thigh-length and are made of soft, pliable fabrics. The round voluminous shape of this skirt is a great way to disguise Balloon/Bubble skirt the bottom and hips area, but also to give them volume in order to balance the upper body. Just like in the case of the peplum skirt, avoid the bubble skirt if you have a pear shaped silhouette, but wear it with confidence if you have a hourglass, inverted triangle or rectangle body shape. Women with apple shaped silhouettes can also pull of the look, provided that the balloon is not too fluffy and the waist is very well highlighted. Also, you don t have to be slim to look great in a bubble skirt, as long as you have beautiful legs and a defined waist. The trendiest way to rock balloon skirts is to pair them with leggings, ankle-length tights or even skinny pants. But if you don t want to over-dress or you don t have a body that allows this kind of layering, simply wear the balloon skirt with a fitted top, either skirt, blouse or blazer, and some high heels. Flats, sneakers or any low-heel footwear will look too casual for this dressy skirt. PANTS Tapered or skinny pants In fashion terms, tapered leg means tight-fitting around the ankle. Some tapered pants are tight all along the leg, from the waist to the hemline, and are called slim fit or 2015 All Rights Reserved 49

50 skinny pants, others are baggy around the knees and thighs, like the infamous Hammer pants from the 90 s or the equestrian and military pants. As they are tight-fitting, sometimes they come in stretchy materials like jeans made with spandex or other elastic fabrics, in order to make them easier to dress. Skinny jeans are very popular and can flatter almost any figure, as long as the legs are straight and long. They are very tight, often resembling to leggings more than pants, and they are cut to hug the body s curves from the waist, bottom, hips and thighs, to the knees and ankles. Tapered pants and skinny jeans can make legs appear longer, especially if paired with high heels. Also, petite women can look taller if they wear ankle-length skinny jeans; otherwise, bunching them at the cuff near the feet will only shorten the leg. Even pear Tapered/Skinny ants shaped women can pull off this type of pants if they choose dark skinny pants/ jeans, in order to slim down their hips. Straight-leg pants Straight-leg pants are a looser version of skinny pants. They fall straight down, do not curve in and the diameter of the leg opening is almost the same from the knee down to the ankle. The cut can be close to the leg or wider, while the waist can be high, mid or low. As for the silhouettes, straight-leg pants flatters most the hourglass and the rectangle body shape, as they come with beautiful straight legs, but these pants also look great on women with prominent hips and thighs. The straight cut can balance a pear shaped figure by making the hips look smaller, and can help disguise a thick waist and flat bottom. Straight-leg pants 2015 All Rights Reserved 50

51 Bell bottom (or flared pants) Bell-bottom pants are wider from the knees downward, forming a bell-like shape of the leg. They were very popular in the 60 s and were usually made of denim. In the 90 s, bell bottoms made a strong comeback in the world of fashion, but this time they were called Bell-bottom or Flared Pants flared pants and begin to widen at the middle of the calf. Later, bell bottoms were reinvented as boot cut, also flared pants but with a smaller flare and a tighter fit from the knees up. No matter the name, this type of pants can seriously elongate the leg, especially if they are paired with high heels, wedges or other footwear that adds inches to the body s height. Bell bottoms are a perfect fit for curvier women, as they create a good proportion between the thick waist and lower legs. Low cut bell botoms in darker shades can also disguise wide hips and thighs. The hourglass silhouette is of course flattered by bell bottom/ flared/ boot cut pants, but the apple, inverted triangle and rectangle body shapes can also pull off this relaxed casual look All Rights Reserved 51

52 Cropped pants Also known as capris, these are not full-length pants. They can end just below the knee or anywhere on the calf. Cropped pants are classic and feminine and come in a variety of styles, from cigarette cropped pants to tapered capris, rolled up cropped pants and harem capris. As they don t cover the whole leg, cropped pants can make legs look longer, hence leaner. This type of pants works best with flats or high heels. One classic chic outfit that suits all silhouettes and never goes out of style Cropped Pants consists of tapered cropped pants paired with ballerina flats or high heels. On summer days, you can wear your capris with light sneakers or gladiator sandals, while in the winter you can opt for ankle boots and thighs. The main advantage of cropped pants is that they can flatter any type of silhouette. Leaner calves and ankles are a plus, as this is the part of the body that draws the attention when you re wearing cropped pants. Capris that end just below the knee are more flattering for women with heavier ankles, while knee-length cropped pants are great for those with short legs. Chino pants Also known as khakis, chinos are a type of pants inspired by military uniforms. Their name comes from the Spanish word for China or Chinese and refers to the cotton fabric imported from China that was used to create pants for the UK and US armies in the mid-19 th century. Since then, chinos have evaluated into a popular casual garment for both men and women. Thanks to the light fabric, chino pants are perfect for summer outfits and a great alternative to jeans. They are comfortable, lightweight and Chino pants 2015 All Rights Reserved 52

53 suitable for casual office and semi-informal outfits, as well as for school outfits and relaxed leisure wear. There is a great variety of cuts and styles for chino pants, so you must know how to choose the perfect chinos for your body shape. If you are curvier, opt for wide-leg chino pants to flatter your legs while balancing out your figure. If, on the contrary, you need to add curves to your rectangle body shape, chinos with pleats and flared cuts are the best option. If you have a pear shaped body, you should ignore pants that are too tight on the hips and choose straight-cut or short chino pants. Cargo pants Another military-inspired garment, cargos are casual pants with large pockets on the side, at mid-thigh. As they are both comfortable and practical and they combine skinny pants with the military trend, cargos are very popular when it comes to relaxed effortless outfits. Pair them with a dressy blouse for a sporty-chic look, with sneakers and T-shirts for a casual urban look and with low boots for a more sophisticated approach. Because of the side pockets, cargos create volume on the thighs, so they are not suitable for women with pear shaped silhouette who already have large hips. On the other hand, apple and inverted triangle body shapes look great with cargo pants, as the details on the hip can balance the wide upper body. Cargo Pants Shorts Shorts are the shortened version of pants. They are perfect for summer time, but can also be worn in winter if they are made of thick fabrics and paired with opaque tights All Rights Reserved 53

54 They are extremely comfortable, thus a good clothing option for casual outfits, but combined with stylish accessories and trendy shoes, short pants can create a very sensual party look. Shorts come in a large variety of cuts and styles, such as: short shorts, bermuda shorts, mid or knee-length shorts, Shorts low-rise shorts, pleated shorts etc. If you have an apple or pear shaped silhouette, choose wider monochromatic shorts with no prints, as you don t want to draw attention to your hips and thighs. If you have a rectangle silhouette, look for rolled up shorts with pockets, embroidery, folds and other details that can add volume to your body. If you are curvier, go for high-waisted shorts that follow your silhouette line. If you are petite, opt for short shorts with a high waist in order to create longer legs and a slim silhouette. VIII. Types of Dress Silhouettes and the Body Shapes They Complement The dress is the perfect garment to wear when you want to highlight your feminine curves, grace and delicacy. Even if you prefer pants, you must have a few basic dresses in your locker that are appropriate to wear at formal occasions, such as weddings, proms and other dress code events. Dresses come in various styles and cuts, lengths, fabrics and all possible colors, but the important thing is to choose the one that makes you stand out like a movie star. Don t wear a dress just because fashion bloggers and designers tell you it s the latest trend; wear the dress that suits you best and adapt your outfit to the latest fashion trends by using chic trendy Don t wear a dress just because fashion bloggers and designers tell you it s the latest trend; wear the dress that suits you best and adapt your outfit to the latest fashion trends by using chic trendy accessories All Rights Reserved 54

55 accessories. Here are some of the most popular dresses and what kind of body shape each of them compliments: Sheath dress As the name says it, this dress embraces the body like a sheath, following the body outline, especially the shoulders and bust. The waist is well defined, the buttocks and thighs are tightly wrapped. This kind of dress is a perfect fit for hourglass silhouettes, but with little attention to details all women can wear it and look flawless. For example, the 2015 All Rights Reserved 55

56 pear shaped body needs a sheath dress with ruffles, shoulder pads or other voluminous detail on the upper body that will offset the large hips area. For the inverted triangle body shape, a peplum sheath dress will emphasize the hips and de-emphasize the broad shoulders. Women with rectangle body will look great in a sheath dress if they highlight their waist with a belt, while apple shaped silhouettes will look better in high-waisted sheath dresses with large V-necks that draw attention to the bust. Halter dress The halter dress does not have sleeves or over-the-shoulder straps, just two strings that go behind the neck. It s a backless dress, therefore perfect for a sexy casual look you can approach on summer days (many halter dresses are designed as beachwear) or at evening dates, if the dress is made of chiffon, satin or silk. Unfortunately, this type of dress does not look good on all body shapes, only on hourglass and rectangle silhouettes. Bodycon dress Bodycon is the contraction of the expression body conscious, so this is a dress designed to make a bold statement of body confidence and self esteem. It s very sexy, all tight and figure hugging, allowing the sensual feminine curves to stand out. The dress clings tightly to the body, from the bust to the lower hem, which can end at the thigh, mid-thigh or knee. It is usually made of lycra and polyester, an elastic blend that allows the dress to hug the figure smoothly. You can wear bodycon dresses during the day, but also as evening wear, depending on the accessories you use: casual handbags, minimal or statement jewelry (if the dress is dark colored), flats or mid-heel casual but elegant footwear - for a daytime trendy outfit; high heels, statement clutch and metallic jewelry - for a sexy party outfit All Rights Reserved 56

57 As this is a form-fitting dress, only slim and curvaceous women with hourglass silhouette can pull the look. Their body proportions are harmoniously balanced, therefore the bodycon dress will perfectly accentuate the feminine body outline. A-line dress The A-line is a classic elegant dress that is fitted from the shoulders to the hips and widening to the hem. This kind of dress works well on all figure types, especially on the inverted triangle silhouette (as it gives volume to the lower body, therefore balancing the wide shoulders) and the pear shaped body (because the A-line cut disguises big hips and bottom). The dress looks well on the apple body shape too, as it accentuates the waist and hides the belly, while rectangular silhouettes need to further highlight the waist with a belt. As for the hourglass body shape, all dresses - including the A-line - look great! The A-line dress with a cloche folded skirt is called princess dress (a very popular style among brides), while the A-line with buttons all the way down and no zippers is called shirt dress or robe chemise. Empire dress This was French emperor Napoleon s first wife favorite dress, hence the name. It has a feminine, romantic allure and a shape that helps accentuate the bust and lengthen the body s appearance. The waist of the dress is raised above the natural waistline, below the bust, then gently follows the body outline or, in some cases, it gets larger and larger and becomes what is known as the baby-doll dress. The Empire dress draws attention to the bust, so women with broad shoulders (inverted triangle body shape) should stay away from this type of dress, but women with apple, pear and rectangle body shape should definitely wear it, as the Empire line camouflages the waist, hips and bottom All Rights Reserved 57

58 Besides the flattering flowing appearance, the Empire dress is extremely versatile and can go from casual to formal, depending on the accessories you choose to wear. Opt for sandals if you want to create a casual look, flats or low-heels for an elegant office style, pumps or high heels for a killer party look. Don t forget to add some statement jewelry to highlight your Empire dress - long necklaces, dangly earrings or thick bracelets. Maxi dress These are long, ankle or floor-length dresses that come with various styles, from halter dresses and baby dolls to bandeau tops. Made with soft free-flowing fabrics, maxi dresses can suit any occasion. Go for silk, satin, taffeta, velvet and other sophisticated materials for evening dresses, or opt for cotton, hemp and other casual fabrics for a casual maxi dress. This comfortable piece of dress looks great on all silhouettes. It s true it compliments mostly lean long body types, but you don t have to be a runway model in order to pull off this look. If you are short, just wear high heels and choose a high waistline (empire, baby doll, halter) to give the illusion of length. If you have a pear shaped body, a maxi dress with an embellished top (ruffles, pleats etc.) will draw away attention from your bottom half of the body. If you have a rectangle or apple shaped silhouette, opt for maxi dresses with a welldefined waistline, or you can wear a waist belt over a column-style maxi dress. Contrary to popular belief, plus size women can also look great in maxi dresses, as long as they avoid details that bring attention to their problem areas, like ruffles around the arms, spaghetti straps on the shoulders or pleats on the tummy. Wrap-around dress The wrap-around dress was first designed by Diane von Fürstenberg, in 1973, and has been very popular ever since, because it s a very versatile, flexible dress that suits all 2015 All Rights Reserved 58

59 silhouettes. It features a front closure with a V-neckline formed by wrapping the dress one side across the other. This is a very flattering type of dress, as the slim-fitting top and looser skirt create the ideal hourglass silhouette on all body shapes. It looks best on curvier, bustier women, since it enhances the bust while slimming the waist and flattening the stomach. If you have small breasts, simply look for a wrap-around dress with extra material across the bust; if you are small-framed, opt for a design with less fabric on the top; if you have a large body frame, a dress with fuller skirt and extra coverage on the top will make you look great. Baby doll dress Very similar to empire waist dresses, the baby doll dress has the same high waistline, but is shorter and larger than the empire dress. The waistline is placed higher than the natural waist, anywhere from the mid-ribcage region to just below the bust line, and the skirt falls from there, draping away from the body. Originally designed as a negligee or women nightwear, the baby doll has evolved into an all-occasion type of dress, from evening to casual clothing. Baby doll dresses usually flatter petite, slender and tall women, as they create the illusion of more fullness and curves. Therefore, they are best suited for boyish silhouettes such as the rectangle or the inverted triangle ones. Since the dress is flowing and becoming larger and larger, it adds volume to the lower half of the body, but also helps hiding a round belly or bottom, wide hips and thick thighs. That s why full-figured women also look great in baby doll dresses, just like busty women, who are flattered by the high-waisted cut. If you are short and want to rock this kind of dress, simply wear high heels or platform to add more height to your stature All Rights Reserved 59

60 Strapless dress Originally considered scandalous as it showed so much of a woman s cleavage, shoulders and arms, the strapless dress is regarded nowadays as very elegant and sensual, the perfect gown to wear at evening and formal events. It reveals the neck, collarbone, shoulders and upper torso, it is tight on the bodice and has no straps or other visible support on the shoulders. Usually, the strapless dress is supported by an internal corset, while the tightness of the bodice prevents the dress from slipping off. As it reveals so much of the upper torso, strapless dresses are not very flattering on women with extra weight on their arms and bust. Also, if the breasts are too big and heavy, a strapless dress might not be able to properly sustain them. Pear shaped women can pull off this look if the skirt of the dress is fuller enough to balance the broad shoulders. Otherwise, since it is fitted from the bust to the waist, the strapless dress can flatter all body shapes as it emphasizes the waistline and the breasts and can also elongate the appearance, if the dress is long. Short strapless dresses that hit above the knee look great on petite women, but long strapless dresses are flattering for all women, creating a glamorous lean look. Mermaid dress As the name implies it, this type of dress is designed to create a mermaid silhouette. The dress is close fitting to the bust, waist and hips, then flares out from mid or lower calf to a wider skirt, similar to a fish tail. The mermaid dress has several other names like fishtail dress, fit and flare or trumpet dress, and comes with a variety of styles, from strapless to long sleeves or spaghetti straps, but it s always long and tight-fitting, therefore suitable for formal events such as weddings, balls and proms. As it is fit over the torso and flares out from the calves to the floor, the mermaid dress can create a stunning hourglass figure with great definition on most women, except for

61 fuller figures with large belly and heavy hips and thighs. Women with no waistline, such as rectangle and apple shaped silhouettes, can pull off the look if they opt for a dress with a highlighted waist and some volume on the upper body in order to balance the wide flare. A mermaid dress that begins to flare just at the hips is the perfect choice if you are looking to further accentuate the illusion of an hourglass body shape or to hide problem thighs. A dress that begins to flare mid-thigh or lower is even more revealing and lets you show off more of your body, including the backside. Either way, this is the dress to choose if you want to dazzle everybody with your feminine curves and glamorous sense of style! One-shoulder dress This classical design silhouette inspired by the ancient Greek clothing has always been an elegant wardrobe to this date. As the name implies, the bodice is held up by one shoulder side and leaving the other side open, revealing the woman s shoulder, collarbone and back thus, creating a sensual look. Since this dress draws attention to broad shoulders, so if you love your shoulders, this is a best dress for you. For an inverted triangle, you can opt for a skirt that adds volume to you hips for a balance look. For apple body shape, this silhouette will also look perfect on you if you go for an empire cut with a flowy skirt, while rectangle shaped women should opt with a design that defines the waist. Women with extra weight on their upper body can pull off this look by choosing a cut that beautifully embraces your upper curves All Rights Reserved 61

62 Ballgown dress A ballgown is another classic silhouette that is tight at the bodice with a floor length, much fuller skirt. Usually sleeveless and with a narrow waist. Commonly made of satin, silk, or taffeta and uses tulle as an under layer to create a floating and stiff look for the skirt. As the name suggests, it is commonly wear in balls or in formal social occasions. Ballgown can be a figure-flattering silhouette as it accentuates the waist and hides the lower body. This is best suited for rectangle or the inverted triangle, as the full skirt gives volume to lower half of the body. If you have a pear shaped body, a ballgown will work on you to disguise your big hips. Ballgown will look great on average height to tall women, as its full skirt and emphasized waist can create an illusion of shorten height, while this silhouette can be overwhelming to small women.

63 IX. Body Sizes and Shapes There are various classifications and opinions, but generally we can talk about four body sizes (petite, tall, skinny and plus size) and five body shapes (hourglass, apple, pear, rectangle and inverted triangle). Read forward to find out which body size and shape you fit and how to create the perfect outfit, choosing what clothes and accessories suit you best!

64 X. How to Accentuate Your Best Features and Conceal What You Like to Hide No matter the height or weight, you can always rely on clothes and accessories to make you feel and look stylish and beautiful. The key is to know how to choose and pair clothing items in order to accentuate your best features and conceal what you like to hide. Here is a fashion guide for what clothing, accessories and colors suit you best, based on your body size, body shape and skin color! 2015 All Rights Reserved 64

65 A. Body size a. Petite women As a small, petite figure, your main goal when choosing clothing and accessories is to create a visual effect of continuity. Your silhouette line must be as cursive and continuous as possible, without any interruptions, like harsh horizontal lines or cuts that add inches to your body s width. Simply put, your best friends are thin vertical lines, created either by the cut of the clothes, either by prints. In order to flatter a petite woman, dresses, skirts and pants must be straight cut, medium length and high-waisted. When combined, these three features give the maximum illusion of height as they elongate the legs. Long dresses and skirts also add height to your stature, while baby-doll items make your legs look longer. When it comes to shirts, blouses, T-shirts and other tops, look for V-necks and sleeveless items to elongate your torso and neck, but stay away from high-neck tops. High-waisted, straight cut or cone shaped pants can elongate the look of your body, as well as jumpsuits, the perfect item to create a visual effect of continuity. On the other hand, flared, cuffless and ankle cut pants will make you look shorter All Rights Reserved 65

66 Accessories must be long and flowing : bags with long straps, long lean scarves, necklaces that can accentuate the line of your neck and the upper half of your body. The simplest way to elongate your body is to wear the right shoes: high heels, wedges, platforms and all types of shoes with sole and heel that can instantly add inches to your height and create a sensual elongated silhouette. Clothes with thin vertical lines give an extra height to your stature, while monochromatic outfits are an excellent way to maintain the continuity of your appearance. b. Tall women Tall women are usually envied and admired by others, but height can become a disadvantage if your outfits make you look too tall and thin. You need to emphasize your best assets - long legs and arms, elongated torso, delicate thin neck - and always make sure you highlight your waist and shorten your height, if necessary. Floor length maxi-dresses and skirts are the best clothing to highlight tall women, as they add volume to the body in order to counterpoise the height. Always look for dresses 2015 All Rights Reserved 66

67 and skirts that emphasize the waist, while minimizing its height: cloche midi-skirts, dresses with details on the waist (ruffles, folds, straps etc.). For the upper half of your body, choose sleeveless tops to show your beautiful long arms - tank tops and vests look great on a long torso! Structured jackets and blazers can help you delimitate the trunk from the legs in order to make you look shorter. When it comes to pants, you can choose almost any cut and length. Shorts and ankle length pants have the ability to shorten the legs, so wear them with confidence. Shoes can help you adjust your tall stature: wear flats, sneakers and low heels shoes if you want to de-emphasize your height, but don t be afraid of stilettos and wedges. Just because you re tall doesn t mean you can t take advantage of the confidence and sensuality high heels add to any outfit! Create the perfect balance between your body and the accessories you wear by wearing oversized jewelry and bags. They can highlight your neck and arms and create a shorter appearance. As for patterns, choose horizontal stripes and visible, colored or embossed prints to add some volume to your body. You can enjoy the same effect by wearing bright bold colors, but not in monochromatic outfits. Black and dark colors make you look taller, so a mixture of colors will eliminate the illusion. c. Skinny women If you have a slender frame, the main goal when choosing your attires should be to create curves and volume wherever you need them. You must wear clothes that highlight the waist, but also give volume to your hips and shoulders in order to balance the entire look. First of all, avoid baggy and clingy clothing. If the clothes are too large for your size, they will swamp your frame and accentuate how small you are; if they are too tight to your body, they will also make you look small and skinny All Rights Reserved 67

68 You can always add curves to your body by wearing empire-waist and peplum style dresses, while dresses with volume on shoulders and hips are great if you want to create the hourglass silhouette illusion. Heavy prints, colors or details at the bodice will help you fill the bust area. Avoid oversized maxi-skirts, as they will only make you look shorter and smaller. Asymmetrical, pencil and A-line skirts are great if you want to add volume on your hips. When it comes to pants, the low rise is perfect to create a curvy silhouette. To add some extra shape and dimension to your body, opt for flared pants, bootleg and boot-cut pants. Skinny pants look great on thin women, but choose bold colors and prints, as dark-colored tight pants can make you look too skinny. Shirts, blouses, T-shirts and jackets can emphasize the upper part of your body if they come with voluminous cuts and details: high necks, ruffles, bows, horizontal stripes, batwing sleeves etc. To highlight your waist, wear bright colored belts, especially paired with floaty dresses and tops, and always make sure the size of your accessories doesn t overwhelm your frame All Rights Reserved 68

69 When it comes to shoes, skinny women look great with lower heels, flats, sneakers or pointy boots, but should avoid chunky heavy shoes as they tend to minimize the leg s actual size. For a wider appearance and more curves to your body, look for clothes with horizontal and diagonal patterns, heavy prints and colors, big colorful motifs. Just be careful not to wear prints from head to toe, as they can drown a slender frame. Black is classy and elegant, but don t wear too much of it at once as it can make you look slimmer than you are. Also, avoid monochromatic outfits, but wear with great confidence various colors to create stylish tone-on-tone or color block outfits. d. Plus size women Women with voluptuous shapes have no reason to hide behind dull, extra-large clothing! If you are a plus size woman, the key to find the best outfits is to choose clothes that can disguise the larger parts of your body and accentuate your waist, in order to make you look leaner and taller. The basic rule is to opt for clothes that perfectly embrace your curves and gently follow your body line. Wearing tight clothes will not make you look thinner, but even more 2015 All Rights Reserved 69

70 chubby, while clothes larger than your size will make you appear bigger than you really are. The waist is also very important for plus size silhouettes. Always choose higher waist dresses, skirts and pants, as they can create an optical effect that makes you look slimmer. As for the length of dresses and skirts, look for knee-length items that end somewhere between the upper part of your knees or just under. Also, avoid mini-dresses or skirts, because they will accentuate your hips. Empire waist dresses and tops flatter your bust and disguise the stomach area, while they help lengthen your body s appearance. Dresses with subtle creases at the waist and high-waist cloche skirts will also hide the puffy surplus and give the impression of a slimmer waist. Tops can draw attention away from a big bust area, thick arms or neck. Go for shirts, blouses, T-shirts and other tops fitted with V-necks, various details on the bodice or high-neck tops. If you want to elongate legs and create a slimmer waist, black straight cut trousers, easy on the hips, are the best bet. Always look for a straight or slightly flared cut pants, but stay away from capris or ankle length pants, as they tend to cut and shorten the legs. Voluptuous bodies need voluptuous accessories such as maxi bags, long chandelier earrings, XXL sun glasses, statement necklaces, long large scarves etc. Belts carefully placed on the smallest area of your silhouette will slim down your waist while emphasizing your body s natural curves. As far as shoes are concerned, high heels can work wonders for curvy women! They are the best to create an optical effect of slim long legs. On the other hand avoid flats, as they draw attention to your buttocks and thighs. Don t use heavy patterns on body areas you want to disguise, but you can rely on vertical stripes if you need to elongate and slim down your figure All Rights Reserved 70

71 In terms of colors, it s well known that dark colors make the body look slimmer, while fair shades visually add some kilos. But if the cut of the clothing flatters your figure, you can look great any color! B. Body shape a. The hourglass body shape This is the body shape most women strive for, as it has perfectly balanced proportions. Torso and hips are approximately the same width, the waist is beautifully defined, the posterior naturally round and the length of the upper body is equally proportioned with the length of the legs. The main objective when you dress yourself up is to accentuate your natural waist and keep the perfect balance between tops and bottoms. Therefore, it s important to choose 2015 All Rights Reserved 71

72 clothing with a tailored fit, never too large or too long, and to add volume on bust and shoulders if you have added volume to your hips and thighs. Always look for dresses with cuts that accentuate your natural waist line and are perfectly balanced: if they have sleeves, they must have a full skirt also; if the top of the dress is tight, the skirt must also tightly follow the hips and thighs. For your upper body, look for V-neck or deep rounded neckline tops to highlight your face, neck and bust. Wrap tops are also great, because they emphasize the bust and waist. Stay away from turtlenecks, shapeless cuts, baby doll and empire waists tops. As pants are concerned, choose boot cut or trouser cut pants that fall from the widest part of your hip. Pants with flap-pockets can further accentuate your curvy figure. The perfect accessories to emphasize your waist are medium width belts. Big brooches are great to highlight your bust, while single line necklaces with a pendant can beautifully accentuate your neck and cleavage. As you have perfectly balanced proportions, you can wear any type of footwear, from high heels to flats. However, the best options for you are peep-toe and round top shoes. Balance is also the way to go when you choose your outfit colors. Similar or identical chromatic intensity is required for both upper and bottom half of your body in order to maintain proportions. Opt for darker shades around the waist when you want to emphasize your feminine curves. b. The pear body shape The pear body shape means the torso and upper body are smaller than the hips. The elegant neck, shapely arms and shoulders and well defined waistline are your best assets, so let them steal the show. In order to make your silhouette look like the ideal hourglass figure, you need to draw attention to your shoulders and bust (by adding volume or creating the illusion of volume) and de-emphasize your lower body (by highlighting your waist). This way you will create a balanced feminine appearance All Rights Reserved 72

73 In order to accentuate your bust and shoulders, look for A-line skirts and dresses, fitted waist and cuts or embellishments that draw attention to your upper body. Sleeveless clothes, wrap and draped bust dresses and tops emphasize your upper body and make your hips look smaller, therefore you will create the illusion of a well-shaped body. When it comes to pants, choose mid-rise waist and simple pockets (or no pockets at all), straight-leg pants that fall straight down from the widest part of your hip, and avoid pants with a tapered leg. Accessories that suit you best are chunky necklaces and earrings that flatter your face and neck, padded bras, body shapers that trim your bottom and natural-looking shoulder pads. The best shoes for the pear body shape? Any footwear with medium to chunky heel, platforms or wedges, long knee boots in neutral colors and square or pointed toe. A great way to create balance for the pear silhouette is to play with colors. Always choose dark colors for you lower body and light bright shades for yours torso. c. The apple body shape Women with apple silhouette have little or no waist definition and their upper body is wider than the hips. The waist is the biggest area of the body, the neck is short, the face is round and the posterior rather plat. Therefore, the key to obtain a hourglass body shape is to create a slimmer waist while keeping the right balance between the upper and lower body. In order to create such an appearance, look for A-line dresses, skirts and tops, empire line items that go in under your bust and box pleats skirts that start below your tummy. You have great slender legs, so don t be afraid to flaunt them! Wear shorts and miniskirts as long as they are not too short, in which case they will only accentuate your upper body. You can de-emphasize this area of your body by wearing simple tops, without any details, but with a low and wide neckline such as scoop, square, V-neck or sweetheart All Rights Reserved 73

74 Look for empire or straight line blouses, shirts and jackets that hang from your shoulder and have a deep neckline. The best flattering pants for the apple body size are wide leg pants, flat fronted and fastened on the side, while accessories must have a medium to chunky size. Wide belts and oversized necklaces and earrings are great to divert attention from your thick waist. There are also shoes that can help you disguise your waist: chunky shoes, wedges or platforms, footwear with different colors and details and medium to high heels. Speaking of colors, it s best to adopt the monochromatic look in order to maintain a slender appearance. But you can always insert some splashes of color when it comes to jewelry, accessories and shoes. d. The inverted triangle body shape This body shape has the shoulders and bust larger than the hips and little waist definition. So, in order to add some curves to your body and balance your appearance, you will need to draw attention away from your broad shoulders by adding volume to your lower body. And don t forget you must always try to create an hourglass silhouette! The simplest way to do that is to wear clothes that can make your hips and thighs look fuller, your shoulders smaller and your appearance curvier: empire waists dresses and tops, deep V-neck shirts and blouses, full skirts with details or embellishment on the hips, A-line dresses and skirts that float away from the body, wrap dresses with a higher waist. Keep the clothing for the upper body simple and smooth and look for deep V and U-neck tops or jackets with a nipped-in waist, as they create defined waist as well as add curves to your hips All Rights Reserved 74

75 For your lower body, choose mid-rise pants in any style that will accentuate your bottom and leg line: various embellishment and pockets on the back, patterns and prints, baggy and flared pants, harem and cargo pants, trouser cut pants and cuffed jeans. When it comes to accessories, draw attention to your hips by wearing chunky colored bags and brightly colored low slung belts that can sit on the hips. Also, use eye-catching shoes to draw attention to your beautiful legs and add volume to your lower body: bright colored pumps, wedges, ankle boots, Uggs, shoes with studs, zippers, buckles and other stylish details. Colors can also create the illusion of an hourglass figure if you use dark shades above the waist and bright light colors below. e. The rectangle body shape If you have a rectangle body shape, your shoulders and bust are the same width as your hips, you don t have a defined waistline and your posterior is rather flat that round. In order to achieve the ideal hourglass silhouette, you must create curves on both your upper and lower body and define your waist. Therefore, look for dresses that add volume to your bust and hips, but also have a defined waist, such as empire and A-line dresses. Anything that is nipped at your waistline or right below your bust will flatter your figure. Draped dresses with a defined waist and full skirt look also great on you, while skirts with volume, ruffles and folds can give an extra feminine touch to your appearance. To create curves on your upper body and slim down your waist, opt for nipped tops, bust-enhancing necklines and cute detail tops like frills, ruffles, bows and flowers. To add volume on your lower body, look for mid or low-waisted pants that flow in their leg line: flared pants, wide leg and boot cut pants. Flowy jumpsuits also flatter the rectangle body shape. You can wear as many details as you like on hips and bottom (pockets, pleats, turn-ups) in order to add dimension to your lower half. When it comes to accessories, it s best to adjust them to your body shape, so choose rectangular bags and clutches. Wear belts as often as you can, because they instantly trim 2015 All Rights Reserved 75

76 your waist, especially dark colored ones. However, stay away from belts with stripes, stitching or other horizontal details as they will make your waist look bigger. Shoes can also emphasize the lower body, so choose statement round or oval toe shoes. As for colors, wear dark shades on your waist in order to reduce it, and choose similar colors for the rest of your outfit. C. Skin tone Everybody knows black clothing can elongate and slim down silhouettes and brunette women should wear contrasting colors in order to highlight their complexion and hair color. But if you really want to choose the most flattering colors to wear you need to know what your skin tone is. Choosing your outfits according to your skin tone will make you shine, while wearing clothes and accessories in the wrong colors will only make your skin look dull. There are two basic skin tones, warm and cool. Warm complexions have yellow undertones, while cool complexions have pink undertones. Now, in order to find out your skin tone, there is this simple white paper test you can do by yourself: hold a piece of white paper up to your throat and chest and look carefully what colors jump out of your skin and first catch your eye. You have a cool-toned skin if you see blue and pink colors, or you are a warm-toned skin if you see green and gold colors. Knowing your skin tone will further help you find out which season coloring you belong. Summer and winter are cool tones, while spring and fall are warm tones. Summer coloring: your skin has blue, red or pink undertones during the white paper test; there is a low level of contrast between your hair and eye color. Winter coloring: your skin has blue, red or pink undertones during the white paper test; there is a high level of contrast between your hair color, eye color and skin tone All Rights Reserved 76

77 Spring coloring: your skin has golden, cream and peach undertones during the white paper test; there is a low level of contrast between your hair, skin tone and eye color; red hair, freckles, rosy cheeks and blue or green eyes are characteristic for the spring coloring. Autumn coloring: your skin has golden, warm or yellow undertones during the white paper test; there is a low level of contrast between your hair, skin tone and eye color, but not as delicate as Spring and Summer. Now, if you want to perfectly match your skin tone, here are the colors you should consider when choosing your clothes and accessories: Colors for the Summer Woman You will look at your best wearing softer colors rather than vibrant ones. Search for cool pastel shades such as: soothing white, beige, pink, blue-gray, pastel blue, aquamarine, yellow, green, blue, pastel green, pink rose, pastel pink, plum, lavender, soothing red, raspberry and indigo. When it comes to accessories, choose silver over gold All Rights Reserved 77

78 Colors for the Winter Woman You will look at your best wearing cool and intense colors such as: pure gray, dark brown, navy blue, pure blue, ice blue, turquoise, yellow clear, pure green, emerald green, pine green, ice pink, purple, royal purple and red (rotten cherry). When it comes to accessories, look for silver jewelry and other silver metals, as well as pearls - white, gray, black or ice blue All Rights Reserved 78

79 Colors for the Spring Woman To best flatter your skin tone, choose clothes with colors such as: white ivory, warm beige, light camel, golden brown, warm gray, gold, clear blue, pure blue, golden yellow, warm yellow, green yellow, light green, peach, clear pink, apricot, medium purple, orange red and bright red. Other bright shades that look great on you are turquoise, watermelon and pink salmon. When it comes to accessories, choose gold jewelry with shades of yellow and red, golden pearls and gemstones with soft warm colors All Rights Reserved 79

80 Colors for the Autumn Woman The ultimate stylish outfit for your skin tone should consist of warm, deep colors such as: warm beige, camel, brown, bronze, gold, peacock blue, turquoise, green olive, jade green, yellowish green, forest green, orange, rust, pink, salmon and red tomato. Of course, autumnal shades like rust and terracotta look great on you. When it comes to accessories, choose gold jewelry as well as beads and bracelets made of amber, yellow pearls, wood and shells All Rights Reserved 80

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82 Chapter XI - Bonus Chapter Quick Fashion Tips for Every Occasion (The Ultimate Fashion Guide for Every Occasion Sneak Peek) Getting dressed for an occasion can be challenging. Looking sharp is not the only thing that matters when it comes to clothing and style. Perfectly matching your clothes and accessories to your body size, shape and skin tone is useless if Perfectly matching you wear the outfit in the wrong place and wrong time. In your clothes and order to make a great first impression wherever you go, accessories to your choose an outfit that represents YOU and yet keep it body size, shape and appropriate for the occasion. skin tone is useless if Here are some quick tips to help you look flawless almost you wear the outfit in immediately when you go to a the wrong place and wrong time. a. Job Interview Job interviews can be tricky, because the first impression is crucial in the eye of the employer. Your attire must express seriousness, common sense and maturity. Look for classic elegant clothes, dark or neutral colors, delicate discreet accessories. First of all, try to match your outfit to the dress code of the company you are interviewing for. Go for a dark two-piece suit (pants, as well as skirts) if the company is a conservative one, and opt for a more laid back outfit if the company has a casual work environment: dressy blouse or simple white shirt, tailored skirt and a blazer, cardigan or light sweater. Secondly, make sure your clothes fit you perfectly, Photo Credit : Dashek via Canva.com 2015 All Rights Reserved 82

83 and thirdly, keep accessories, colors, patterns and details to a minimum: don t wear flashy jewelry, oversized bags, busy prints etc. Hosiery is optional, but never wear a purse if you already have a briefcase - carry one, or the other. Shoes are very important. Look for something classic, elegant and comfortable, such as mid heel, closed-toe pumps (high heels are appropriate only if you apply to a creative position). b. First day at work No matter how laid back the dress code at your new workplace is, it s inappropriate to look too casual or too fancy on your first day. So forget about jeans, sneakers, shorts, hoodies, iconic T-shirts and flip-flops and keep it simple and classy. Avoid anything too sexy or too revealing. Go for A-line, pencil or straight cut skirts, shirts with white or neutral shades, light patterned blouses, straight-leg pants, close-toe pumps and a statement accessory - either a bag, or a jewelry. You can opt for color when it comes to shoes, but it s easier to choose nude footwear, as it matches everything. Don t wear too much color or too vibrant tones; choose dark and neutral for clothes and use accessories to add a splash of color to your attire. c. Meetings and Presentations In order to create the perfect outfit for business meetings and presentations, start by visualizing your audience. Try and dress like you think your business partner would dress - in most cases, a tailored suit is the best option. Usually, you can t go wrong with a classic blazer and simple trousers or pencil skirt combination. To choose the best length for your skirt sit down with your legs crossed - if you show too much of your thigh, the skirt is too short. For all the clothes you choose to wear, make sure they perfectly compliment your body size. For the upper body, it s important not to show too much cleavage All Rights Reserved 83

84 Keep jewelry simple and shoes functional, yet elegant: low heels, closed-toe pumps are the safest bet, while flats, stilettos or shoes with too much height must be avoid. As for the colors, stick to the conservative and safe ones, such as black, navy, dark gray. Photo Credit : Pressfoto via Canva.com d. First Date Stick to this simple rule in order to choose the best first date outfit: wear what makes you feel at ease, but in the meantime accentuates your best body features. For example, a strapless dress or top will draw attention to your beautiful neck, shoulders and arms, while above-the-knee skirts paired with longsleeved tops will help you show off your killer legs. If you feel good with yourself, you will be sociable, cheerful and spontaneous. If the clothes you wear match your body, the guy will surely notice YOU, not just your sexy cleavage or long legs. So stay Photo Credit : andresr via Canva.com 2015 All Rights Reserved 84

85 away from tight clothing, low-cut items, sheer tops, mini-skirts and shorts! It s also important to choose your clothes and accessories according to the place where you will meet. Are you going to a fancy restaurant? Wear a nice fitting dress, not too short, nor too long, black (a versatile color that matches everything) or red (a very sensual color). Are you going to listen to some live music? Skinny jeans, simple top, leather jacket and casual heels will do the trick. Are you going to a dance club? Make sure you choose comfortable footwear and a dress that floats around your body, so you can move freely and not get too hot. As for accessories, don t wear the trendiest bag or the most expensive jewelry you have. The guy might think you are a snob pretentious fashionista. Keep it simple and cute. Use accessories to add some glam to your outfit, if needed, or on a contrary, to tame your colorful clothing. e. Casual Date On a casual date, wear clothes that make you feel the most comfortable. Simple, right? But how to feel cosy, look stylish and, at the same time, not overdressing for the venue? First of all, look only for loose fitting clothing, that leaves you space to move at ease. The only tight fitting items you should consider are skinny jeans, leggings and tank tops. To create the perfect casual outfit, choose from these specific clothes: comfortable jeans (the trendy skinny, boyfriend or baggy jeans, the classic straight-leg or boot cut jeans, the hippie flared and wide-leg jeans, the sporty capris or cargo jeans), T-shirts of all sizes, colors and prints, fun flirty skirts, long pleated skirts, maxi-dresses, biker leather jackets, trench coats and denim jackets. Mix and match these tops and bottoms as you wish (but always be careful to compliment your body shape!) and pair with some casual footwear, such as: sneakers, flats, mid-heel ankle boots, wedges, biker boots etc. If you keep the clothing style casual, simple and chic, you can choose more impressive accessories, whether bright colored shoes or oversized jewelry, big sunglasses or maxihats. Shoulder and messenger bags, crossbody or tiny backpacks can beautifully complete a casual outfit All Rights Reserved 85

86 f. JS Prom It s easy to overdress at your JS prom, as this is a special event in every teenager s life. But it s important to remember this rule: when choosing your dream prom dress go for a classic, timeless silhouette. It s the safest way to achieve a feminine, delicate, yet sensual look. If you want to go wild, it s best to use the accessories in order to create the wow effect you desire; this way, there are fewer chances to ruin your whole appearance. Start by choosing the right fabric for your dress. For a special evening outfit, go for fine materials such as silk, chiffon, tulle, satin. Lace and velvet are also recommended. Then, look for the best cut in order to compliment your body shape and accentuate your beautiful features. If you need to slim down your waist, choose the A-line skirt dress or a wrap dress; if you have a pear shaped silhouette, add volume to your upper body with some ruffles on the bodice or a bow shoulder dress; if you need to hide your hips, go for the baby doll or empire waist dresses; for bigger hips, choose a peplum dress. For every one of us, there is a dress out there that can make us look flawless! Princess ball gowns and empire waist dresses are perfect for the prom. The bodycon dress is very sexy indeed, but make sure you can move and dance in it. Too-tight low-cut dresses are a big non no, just like the tutu Barbie dress or any kind of pants, no matter how sophisticated the cut and precious the material. As for the colors, black is elegant and mysterious, red is passional, white - romantic and pure, while silver and gold are perfect for parties. Bright colors are a great way to stand...when choosing your dream prom dress go for a classic, timeless silhouette to achieve a feminine, delicate, yet sensual look. If you want to go wild, use accessories in order to create the wow effect you desire; 2015 All Rights Reserved 86

87 out in the crowd and photos, but choose only one bright color if you don t want to end up looking like a clown. If you go for a neutral color dress, make it pop with one bright accessory or jewelry, not more. High heels such as stilettos or strappy sandals are required, as they make you look taller and thinner. Don t forget a (metallic) clutch or (satin) small purse in order to complete your dream prom outfit! g. School Reunion The reunion with your old school mates calls for a smart combination between casual, business and sexy. You don t want to look too conservative and harsh, nor to sensual and attractive. The little black dress is always a good idea, just make sure it Photo Credit : Sean Locke Photography via Canva.com has the right length (right above or right below the knee). The same thing goes for the length of the skirts - try an A-line or a pencil skirt to match the occasion. If you are more of a suits fan, it s ok to wear one at your school reunion. A tux-style jumpsuit in black or white always looks great, or just choose a comfortable stylish suit made of crepe or silk, in feminine colors like ivory or champagne. Jeans are not inappropriate (especially if the reunion includes dancing), as long as you choose dark 2015 All Rights Reserved 87

88 denim ones with a classic cut (boot cut or straight-leg jeans) and pair them with some comfortable high heels and a top that catches the eye. If you keep it simple as far as clothes are concerned, you can draw attention to the jewelry: choose pearls for a classic look, statement silver and gold necklaces for a modern look or multiple bangles for a boho-chic appearance. h. Family Reunion Whether it s your family reunion or your boyfriend s, what you need to keep in mind when choosing your outfit is that you are going meet all kinds of people, from grandparents to parents, sisters, aunts and cousins. And the safest way to make a good impression on everyone is to go for the classy elegant style with a feminine touch. Try a classic dress with a simple cut (A-line, princess, shirtdress, blouson, asymmetrical), some delicate sandals or shoes, comfortable bag and minimal jewelry. The family reunion is not the place to flaunt your latest wardrobe acquisitions. If you like skirts, opt for A-line items, wrap, waist or hip plead, tulip or circle. If you want to wear pants, also look for the classics : straight-leg, ankle length pants or even skinny jeans, if you wear some floating top to counterbalance your appearance. Choose black, white, pastels shades and other gentle colors for the clothing, so you can spice up your attire with some colorful accessories. Whether it s your family reunion or your boyfriend s, you are going meet all kinds of people And the safest way to make a good impression is to go for the classy elegant style with a feminine touch All Rights Reserved 88

89 i. Cocktail Party Cocktail parties can be tricky these days. If the invitation doesn t stipulate the exact dress code, your cocktail party outfit should be more formal than casual clothes and less formal than evening wear. Traditionally, women wore mid-thigh to knee length flirty dresses to such events, made from satin or silk, but the etiquette is not so strict anymore. Photo Credit : pressfoto via Canva.com Therefore, you can combine a waisted skirt in a solid color with an embellished top, tailored pantsuits with a sequined tank top, a shift dress with killer shoes or cigarette pants with a silk camisole. Anything that is dressy-casual will do. And, of course, let s not forget the little black dress. Tamed with bold jewelry, it s the perfect outfit for cocktail parties! Opt for high heels or some fancy flats, cute clutch or embellished mini-bag and you are ready to party and steal the show! j. Thanksgiving Party Thanksgiving is a cozy holiday, not so serious and all festive like Christmas, but a special day when you sit with your family around the dinner table and talk, eat and have fun All Rights Reserved 89

90 So you should wear some comfortable nice clothes, but make sure to add some glam to your Thanksgiving outfit. Sweaters are on a roll this time of the year, so you can create a stylish outfit with your favorite sweater and a pair of tailored pants or a pencil, A-line or circle skirt. Tucked-in sweaters are very popular right now, so consider a thin one, in order to tuck it in your pants or skirt. Or you can always opt for a belt over the sweater move, which will instantly create a feminine thin waist. If you celebrate Thanksgiving like a festive dinner party, opt for a simple classic dress, not too formal, nor too casual: A-line skirt dress, full skirt dress, wrap or a shift dress. The peplum dress or top is a wise move, because you won t have to worry somebody will notice you ate too much and your tummy begins to show. This autumnal holiday is all about pumpkins, so don t be afraid to wear orange and red clothing, as well as the season s colors: brown, yellow, gold. Add some green or dark plum in order to create stylish chromatic accents along with the traditional Thanksgiving colors. k. Christmas Party When it comes to Christmas parties, you can easily create a festive winter outfit based on the colors of this holiday: white, red, gold, silver and red. Of course, black remains an excellent chromatic option for party outfits, even at Christmas. If you have a black cocktail dress, you can glam it up with some metallic accessories and you are ready to go! The cocktail lace dress is also a must-have during winter holidays, as it is festive, very feminine and easy to accessorize. If you go to a office Christmas party, make sure the dress ends right above or right below the knee and wear mid-heel shoes - this is not the place to show much skin or look too sexy. You can save that for the party in the club with your friends, where you can wear a mini sequined dress everybody will admire. If you re not comfortable with dresses, a nice pair of black pants paired with a bright peplum top creates another great office Christmas party outfit. You can choose any pants with a classic elegant cut, such as: tuxedo pants, cigarette, skinny, boot cut or straightleg pants. Add metallic shoes and jewelry if you want to turn up the glamour. You can 2015 All Rights Reserved 90

91 wear this outfit at more casual parties too, if you change the pant suit with dark skinny jeans and some strappy high-heels sandals. The best accessories for Christmas parties are the sequined clutch, simple satin clutch and the mini bag on a long chain. Any of these can perfectly complete anytime your party outfit. Photo Credit : Dolgachov via Canva.com l. Bridal Shower The bridal shower wardrobe etiquette is not that complicated once you know what NOT to wear. White, black and red are the colors you should stay away from when choosing your outfit for a bridal shower. White is the color of the bride and, on her big day, you must let her shine alone. Creams and ivory are also off-limits, but you can opt for nude shades and white dresses with colorful prints. Red is considered to be a vulgar color, being associated with the act of adultery, so a bridal shower is not the place you should flaunt your hot red dress. As for the black interdiction, this is the color of mourning so again, it is not suitable for the occasion. So, what should you wear when you are going to a bridal shower? Dresses are the best option, especially those with flowery prints on them. They are cute, feminine and very 2015 All Rights Reserved 91

92 suitable to the joy and optimism of the occasion. Look for skirts and dresses that end above the knee, below the knee, as well as tea length or maxi dresses. Photo Credit : Sean Locke Photography via Canva.com But bridal showers are much more casual than weddings, so pants are acceptable too. Look for elegant items such as wide-leg pants we can pair with ladylike tops. You can even try a slim suit or a chic jumper, as long as they respect the color interdictions. Keep in mind you must look bright, joyful and relaxed. If you don t like wearing colors, try something close to black, like navy, but make sure to add some warm shades in your outfits: nude plumps, a white belt, a light colored bag etc. m. Wedding First wardrobe rule for every women invited to a wedding is not to wear all-white outfits. You can wear white on your accessories, you can wear a white dress with colorful prints, but not head-to-toe white. This color is reserved for the bride only and you must not compete with her. Just like for bridal showers, you should not wear black, especially if the wedding takes place during daytime. If the wedding invitation specifies a dress code, you must respect it. Informal Daytime means short dress or suit; Informal Evening: Cocktail dress; Semi-Formal Daytime: Short dress or suit; Semi-formal Evening: Cocktail dress; Formal Daytime: Short dress or suit, 2015 All Rights Reserved 92

93 hats and gloves optional; Formal Evening or Black-Tie: Long or dressy short cocktail; Ultra-formal or White Tie: Long gown. If the wedding invitation doesn t mention a dress code, you can wear anything you like as long as it s decent and elegant. Even if the wedding is a casual one and takes place on the beach or in a garden, you cannot wear jeans, shorts, T-shirts or flip-flops to such an event. But you have a lot of other clothing options. Except for super tight dresses, mini skirts, low cut tops and other tacky outfits, we are free to wear any dress you like. Baby-doll and empire waist dresses are perfect for weddings. If you want a sensual look, opt for sheath, halter, bodycon and spaghetti straps dresses. If you want a more romantic and feminine approach, go for A-line skirts, full skirts, wrap and shift dresses. Last but not least, you don t have to wear high heels at a wedding. Flats, wedges and other footwear are acceptable as long as they look dressy. n. Baby shower Baby showers are events full of joy, fun and games, so the dress code should be relaxed and casual, less formal than at a wedding, but not so casual as at a lunch with friends. You need to be comfortable with your clothes and feel free to move, as many baby showers include different games (to taste baby foods, to guess the baby's birth date or sex etc.). The first thing you need to consider when you are looking for the perfect baby shower outfit is the venue. If the event will take place at someone s house, you can opt for something casual, such as stylish pants and a ladylike sweater, or a delicate skirt or dress. Just make sure you don t show too much leg and stick with low heels or flats, as high heels seem inappropriate for a daytime event where you will mostly meet ladies, mothers and pregnant women. If the event will take place in a restaurant, look for something more formal: a classic dress (like A-line, full skirt, wrap or shift dress) or a feminine top 2015 All Rights Reserved 93

94 with dressy pants and mid-heel shoes. If the baby shower will be held outdoors, you can opt for stylish jeans, a casual blouse and flats or low-heel sandals. Photo Credit : Sean Locke Photography via Canva.com Besides the venue, you also need to take into account the season and the weather. It s safer to dress in layers, especially for outdoor baby showers. This way you will be prepared for any weather changes. If the baby shower will take place in summer or spring, choose light fabrics and soft colors; in winter, go for heavier and darker outfits. o. Traveling When traveling, what you need most and foremost are comfortable clothes. Whether you re in an airport, in a train station or in your own car, you have to move a lot, run from one point to another, carry your bags and sit through your whole travel time. But if you choose the right clothes and accessories for traveling, all the scurry and bustle will become endurable. So, opt for loose clothing that won t constrict you when you have to hustle, like maxi dresses or skirts that give a little. However, pajama pants and sweatpants, no matter how comfortable they are, should not be part of your traveling outfit. Opt for wide-leg flax pants instead or some straight-leg jeans - they are cozy and stylish enough All Rights Reserved 94

95 Try layering as much as you can, because you can never know how the weather is going to change. Put on a tank top, then a T-shirt, a casual shirt, a sweater and a denim jacket. Also, it s important to wear socks when you are traveling by plane, as they will keep your toes germ-free when you have to remove your shoes at security. Photo Credit : Splitshire via Pixabay.com Two of the things you need to avoid when traveling by plane are belts and underwire bras. They can both trigger the airport's metal detectors and then you will have to stop, unbuckle or go through those embarassing pat-down inspections. Keep jewelry to a minimum when traveling, or even better, don t wear any. It s useless, and surely you can stay a few hours without your favorite ring or earrings. Also, forget about your high heels and trendy handbag; when traveling, flats that slip on and off or lightweight sneakers and a backpack are your best accessories. p. Funeral This is another event which has its own color rules. Black is the color to wear at a funeral, as a sign that you respect and honor the deceased. Try to dress as you would for church or for a job interview. The outfit you are looking for must be tasteful and conservative. Black dresses with sleeves are appropriate, as well as business dark suits, with skirt or pants. Just make sure to cover your shoulders and knees All Rights Reserved 95

96 Although black is required, you can insert some other colors in your outfit, such as navy, gray and various dark shades. You can also wear hats to give your outfit a polished sophisticated look. Just make sure the hat you choose is not too extravagant or bizarre. As for other accessories, white pearls are the perfect fit for a black attire, so wear them Photo Credit : Kzenon via Canva.com with confidence. Shoes must be comfortable first and foremost, as funerals tend to be long and you must stand and walk a lot. Choose something mid-heel or no-heel at all, as walking in high heels on a grassy ground can give you headaches All Rights Reserved 96

97 Attributions 1900 Fashion Photo Credit : fotshot Flapper Style Dresses in 1920s Photo Credit : Playing Futures : pennyspitter 1920 skiers Black Dress with Plunge Back in 1930s Photo Credit : Playing Futures : Applied - [H] Heinz Hajek-Halke-Fashion Tee(1930) Practical two-piece suits for women in 1940s Photo Credit : Richard 277 Tyndall Field, Florida WWII s Black Dress with Plunge Back Photo Credit : Sacheverelle - front view - back view National Bellas Hess magazine in 1953 Photo Credit : Ethan NBH

98 Lana Lobell 1962 Photo Credit : Ethan Lana Lobell Flared pants in 1970s Photo Credit : ierdnall Oversized women s wear & oversized earrings in 1980s Photo Credit : tiffany terry Swatch Ice Creams Awesome vintage 70's & 80's pictures from Cosmopolitan magazine/book Grunge style outfit in 1990s Photo Credit : Kamen Kunchev - Grunge Ralph Lauren Collection, 2000s Fashion Photo Credit : fervent-adepte-de-la-mode - Beautiful Woman, Catwalk Photo Credit : Krzysiek Audrey Hepburn Photo Credit : skeeze All Rights Reserved 98

99 Windbreaker Photo Credit : Clube Trekking Santa Maria RS Parka jacket Photo Credit : Berthina Fjelstad Canada Goose Banff Parka Brown Mens Pleated Skirt Photo Credit : Monik Markus Bubble skirt Photo Credit : Megan Tintari DIY bubble skirt Tapered or skinny pants Photo Credit : McArthurGlen Designer Outlets Straight-leg pants Photo Credit : porcupiny Bell-bottom or Flared Pants Photo Credit : Paul Townsend All Rights Reserved 99

100 Cropped pants Photo Credit : Wendy Firmin Chino pants Photo Credit : McArthurGlen Designer Outlets All Rights Reserved 100

101 Waiting for your positive feedback Thank you for the opportunity you have given me to serve you through this book. If you enjoyed this book, I would like to request for your positive feedback and ideally leave me a 5-star review on Amazon/our website. Your positive feedback is greatly appreciated. Click here to leave a review for this book. Or you can go to this link below: Check out my other book(s)! The Ultimate Fashion Guide for Every Occasion Follow Bella Collection on : Thank you very much! Aimee Wood To God be the glory! 2015 All Rights Reserved 101