#1 What to look for in the perfect dress - Structure
A dress with structure is going to give your body shape, such as this dress from Nordstrom.
I love this dress! The denim is right on trend for this fall. This dress works because of the structure in the bodice which gives the rest of the body a perfect shape. The skirt is full and falls gracefully away from the waist. This is a wonderful solution and a great option for your fall wardrobe. And as the weather changes and cools down, you can switch out the white belt for a nice leather one and pair the dress with an adorable sweater or cropped jacket. Finish the look with a pair of cute boots.
Now, moving right along to the second aspect to look for...
#2 What to look for in the perfect dress - Visual Lines
First of all, can we all just agree that this is a gorgeous dress?! The idea behind a dress like this is that the lines in the garment create a visual trick and elongate the entire body. The draping is also a very current way to look effortlessly glamorous.
Look for these kind of detailing that can quickly update a wardrobe and making you look very modern at the same time.
#3 What to look for in the perfect dress - Necklines
Necklines are an important aspect to look for when you are shopping for the perfect dress this fall. This hot pink dress from Nordstrom is fabulous. It has the best two important key elements when looking at the neckline of a dress. The V-neck is wonderful and creates an illusion of length. Also, the faux-wrap on the bodice can also minimize the chest.
#4 What to look for in the perfect dress - Fit
This specific area of dressing yourself walks a fine line. It is very important to wear a size that is fitted, yet not too tight. However, leave enough room that you can breathe and move easily, and yet is not baggy. If ever you have a question as to if the fit is right on you or not, then try on three different sizes. One that is typically your size, then a size up and a size down from that. Also, because brands can size very differently.
The following two pictures gives two examples of dresses that fit just right.
And now for an ill fitting garment..
The reason why this garment doesn't work is because it hides a figure all together, and what begins as a good intention to hide unwanted weight, actually creates more surface area instead of the desired camouflaging.
#5 - What to look for in the perfect dress - Texture & Fabric
Fabrics are incredibly important aspects of finding a great dress for this season. Look for fabrics that have a certain stiff quality. These fabrics can be forgiving and can camouflage problem areas. Where as a thin jersey (or t-shirt fabric) can cause unwanted hugging. This dress is a fantastic example of almost all of the points we just discussed. I can just see it now with the perfect pair of boots and an adorable jacket for the fall...
And when you are ready to go shopping, Contact me! I would love to guide you through your fall wardrobe and give assistance during the transition time after surgery. We can go to Target or Saks Fifth Avenue and everywhere in between. Contact me at: Stephanie.Myers1@gmail.com
Stephanie, thanks for the post, hope you make some suggestions for those of us who will not wear dresses for love or money. Life long tomboy here, just starting to wear makeup at the ripe old age of 53.
ReplyDeleteDo you do hair? That I do need help with, mine is way too over due for a new "do".
This does sound like a great subject for the support groups as well, maybe a fashion show at the end of the year like the OH conferences?
Great point! I sure do work with all types and styles... Tomboy, you say? Let's see what we can come up with. Are you interested in working together?
ReplyDeleteAlso, I can connect you with a great hair stylist here in Columbus.
I would love to do a fashion show. Send me details!
Thanks for commenting! -Stephanie
Excellent article and great tips. My problem is that I don't want to spend very much money when I know I won't be in that size or garment for very long. At this point, I'm insisting on wearing all my old clothes until they fall off of me, just because of the money issue. Let's face it, clothes aren't cheap! I'd rather wait till I get at my goal or stable weight and then invest in some good quality items that I can mix and match, etc. Any suggestions for this issue? Also, if you are going to address hair, what about wigs? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteOn the topic of not spending much money... I can take you any where from Salvation Army to Gabriel Brothers, and help you to find great solutions. This is actually my favorite part of my job! Then it becomes an adventure.
ReplyDeleteWigs? I am sure I can locate some for you!
Please contact me if you would like assistance! Thanks, Stephanie
Stephanie, would love to work with you when I hit the 100 pound mark for a celebratory outfit. 30 pounds to go for that big day.
ReplyDeleteI have a good hair person, but she is so hard to get an appt. that I am looking like a shaggy dog right now.
Check out Obesity Help fashion show videos to see how they do it.
I had also suggested a clothing swap for the support groups. Seems to go over great with other groups.
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/video/video.php?v=1614064630646
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/video/video.php?v=1606852730353
BTW you can reach me at stonehaven_farm@hotmail.com or I will be at both support group meetings after my personal training session.
Happy birthday to me, eh? :)
That is fantastic! Congrats on all of the hard work! I will look forward to celebrating with you! Contact me when you are ready - Stephanie.myers1@gmail.com
ReplyDelete