On Spring Break…

Dressed to a T is on Spring Break…and will be back in business next week.  And yes, for those who know I have 40 “in the hopper”, those are on break as well.

Be Happy!

xoxo,

T.

Next Week’s Most Anticipated Blog:  Up With Peeps!

Capri Pants…Friend or Foe?

It’s Spring…or shall I say, Winter was Spring, and Spring is Summer…or at least it feels like summer…except in Laguna Beach where it feels like early spring in Chicago.  So, spring or summer, it’s the season for Capri pants (also known as Capris, Crop pants, long or three-quarter shorts, and clam diggers)…a friend inquired about them.  Are they in or out?  yay or nay?  Can everyone wear them, or just women with thing legs and calves.  But “clamdiggers”?  Probably a term from “the south”.

More casual than its full-leg cousin yet still sophisticated and classic (think Audrey Hepburn), the Capri is the perfect summer pant. However, the Capri style can be tricky to pull off; you don’t want it to cut you off in the wrong place, leaving your legs looking stumpy or making your hips appear wider.  That is Never the goal! My friends at Wear this and Toss that, have some specific thoughts regarding this most important topic!
Here are some  tips to make the Capri work for you

What type of cut? This season we’re finally seeing the skinny pant put to rest and a celebration of a wider trouser cut. Women everywhere are breathing a sigh of relief because this translates to a wider cuff that better counterbalances the hips. You can certainly get a little nautical chic with a trouser-cut Capri, but the classic fit is one that is straight-legged and tapered toward the hem.

What length? It really depends on the look you are going for and how much you love your calves! Capris can end anywhere from just at or under the knee or mid-calf or slightly below. Keep in mind that whatever skin is exposed on that leg will serve like a spotlight, so make sure you love what you see!  A loose long pair of walking shorts can translate into the look of a Capri.

Which shoes? The most common question they get is what shoes to wear with Capris. Your “go-to shoe” should be feminine flats, which are all the rage this season. Opt to up your ante with cute jeweled styles, sandals with rosettes or flowers, or closed-toe varieties with cutouts or bows. Unless you want to appear super tall, skip the sky-high skinny heels, as this season it’s more about a thicker heel. Try a platform, a wedge, or a fun, woven espadrilles in a moderate heel, which better matches a capri’s casual cut.  I also think a great pair of high heel sandals (not sky-high) makes for a great, chic look.

What to wear on top? The ideal and easiest match is a blouse or shirt that ends at or a little below your waistband. Beware if your baby doll or jersey top ends at the hips; it will make them look wider than a shopping cart!  I also love a matching or coordinating blazer for work, with a pair of cuffed Capri’s, and heels for work.

How to accessorize? A thick belt will make a Capri pant top-heavy. Instead consider a skinny or thin (one-inch) belt instead. Against a solid color like navy or tan, a metallic belt adds shine and modernizes the look. Swap out a formal belt for a casual, colorful scarf only if you want to zero in attention around your middle.

Other must-haves:

• Belted khaki Capris for a great, crisp look.  This works more for a casual look as opposed to appropriate for work.
• Just below-the-knee Capris for those who adore their calves.  This will Not be me.
• Capri with side slits for a slightly sexy alternative.  This works for everyone.

One of their suggestions is to : TOSS a Capri if you have thick ankles, big feet, or heavy lower calves as this style will highlight those areas.  I have to disagree.  I have thick ankles (but strangely enough they’re weak), big feet (goes along with my big heart) and not the slimmest calves based on too many years of running, and I still love Capri’s, and don’t believe the children go running when they see me.  Of course it still goes back to my Number 1 fashion rule…if you love it, and love yourself in it, Rock on!

Source:  Wear This, Toss That (with my own little tidbits interspersed within).

Great looks while wearing Capri’s:

Be Happy.

xoxo,

T.

Three Simple Rules in Life…Amazing Moments…How to Be Happy…and more!!

And may I present to you some of my favorite “Life Lessons”.  A few people I know need a reminder of some of these.   Thank goodness I was able to post about St. Patrick’s Day last week, so we can address Happiness  and not Green beer and Guinness!  

“glamorous. fabulous. charming. fun. flirty. elegant. exciting. delicate. whimsical. wonderful. dramatic. cute. dreamy. enticing. enchanting. charming. sassy. sexy. sweet. artistic. creative. exquisite. stunning. dreamy. delightful. whimsical. glorious. heartfelt. simply beautiful. this blog is dedicated to all things divine and that inspire us to enjoy a more exquisite life”. (zsazsabellagio.blogspot.com)

And for those heading out on Spring Break next week, safe travels…and take a peek at last year’s post on Preparing for Spring Break.

http://dressedtoat.wordpress.com/2011/03/11/spring-forward-and-plan-for-spring-break/

Bon Voyage…and Happy, Happy  St. Patrick’s Day!!

xoxo,

T.

Related articles

• I’m Irish…but please don’t pinch me, for I shall be wearing Green! (dressedtoat.wordpress.com)

I’m Irish…but please don’t pinch me, for I shall be wearing Green!

Yes, I’m aware St. Patrick’s day is more than a week away, but just in case you need more than 1 day to plan what to wear and what to eat, I decided to post this one week earlier than planned.

St. Patrick’s Day brings much jubilation to a large population of Americans every March 17. The holiday is feted with huge parades, tons of green beer, Irish recipes galore, and even a green river (thank you City of Chicago!). But where did it all begin? And what’s with people pinching other people who aren’t wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day?

Irish Traditions

There are many Irish traditions people follow to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and other Irish occasions, although not all of them are historically accurate. Some of the Irish customs people are more familiar with include wearing green, eating Irish food and drinking beer. Actually wearing green is strictly a U.S. custom, as the color green is considered unlucky in Ireland. Green is connected to the old green flag and a time when Ireland was not free. Americans have embraced their own St. Patrick’s Day tradition of drinking large amounts of Irish beer or green beer, which has no real historical Irish references at all. Another new St. Patrick’s Day tradition started by school children is pinching classmates who don’t wear green on St. Patrick’s Day. This tradition has grown with the times, and even if you aren’t a school child, beware on St. Patrick’s Day if you aren’t wearing green!

Irish Symbols

Leprechauns
As a St. Patrick’s Day symbol, the leprechaun is a smiling, merry little elf. However, legend tells us that leprechauns are always grumpy, untrustworthy and very tricky. Leprechauns are believed to be little old men who make shoes for fairies and are usually about two feet tall. The legend says that if you catch a leprechaun, you can force them to tell you where they hid their pot of gold.

Shamrocks
According to Irish legend, St. Patrick chose a three leaved clover or shamrock as a symbol of the church’s Holy Trinity because of its three leaflets bound by a common stalk. He used the tri-leaved plant to help illustrate the idea of the holy trinity – Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. A shamrock is not a four-leaf clover, contrary to popular belief. When a four-leaf clover is found it is said to represent God’s grace. The good luck attached with the four-leaf clover predates Christianity in Ireland back to the ancient Druid priests.

The Claddagh Ring
The Claddagh Ring features two cupped hands holding a heart with a crown on top. It has been the traditional wedding ring of the Irish since the 17th century. For love, the heart is worn. In friendship, the hands are worn. And, in loyalty and lasting fidelity, the crown is worn.

If the ring is worn on the right hand, with crown and heart facing out, this symbolizes that the wearer’s heart is yet to be won. While dating and under love’s spell it is worn with heart and crown facing inwards (still on the right hand.) Wearing the ring on the left hand, with the crown and heart facing inwards, signifies that your love has been given to one and only one, through marriage.

Corned Beef and Cabbage
Corned beef and cabbage is the traditional meal enjoyed by many on St. Patrick’s Day, but only half of it is truly Irish. Cabbage has long been a staple of the Irish diet, but it was traditionally served with Irish bacon, not corned beef. The corned beef was substituted for bacon by Irish immigrants to the Americas around the turn of the century who could not afford the real thing. They learned about the cheaper alternative from their Jewish neighbors.

Source:  American Greetings

What to wear without looking like a Leprechaun?

McDonald’s Shamrock Shake Recipe

McDonald’s Shamrock Shake Copycat Recipe

3 cups good quality vanilla ice cream

1 3/4 cups 1% milk

1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

Green food coloring if desired

1. Blend all ingredients in a blender until completely thick and smooth. Pour into glasses and serve!

St. Paddy’s Day Treats

OK…This is an Edit, because I have heard from 2 of my most loyal blog followers, as to the blasphemy of Not including Guinness…And according Bruce:  ”In Ireland this is considered ‘Mother’s Milk’.  I had 13 pints three years ago on St Pat’s. Woke up the next feeling AWESOME!”  Feeling AWESOME! after 13 pints, is worth a mention!

Oh and regarding the above ecard…Yes it is.

May the sun shine, all day long,
everything go right, and nothing wrong.
May those you love bring love back to you,
and may all the wishes you wish come true!

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!  And here is a pic of my very own St. Patrick (picture a few years old, but one of my favorites).

xoxo,

T.

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Related Posts:  http://dressedtoat.wordpress.com/category/whos-your-paddy/

 

 

Spring Forward… Fashion Trends for Men!

MANic Monday!!

This blog is dedicated to Meredith’s boyfriend, Zack…who always looks great, has a great sense of style, and inspired some of the looks I chose…so, Zack…this Blog’s for you!

If you are a guy and you wanted to know what to wear to be “fashionable” this spring, and you turned to Google, and looked at images of Spring 2012 for men…you would come up with these pics:

I don’t know about you, but I do know many men who are Fabulous dressers…Bruce, Aaron, Scot, Luke, Mark, David, Dave P. and Eric P. (I had to include my brothers)…I’m not sure any of them would actually wear any of these ensembles (though the ones in the middle pic are the least offensive).  I think it’s hard to be a guy and figure out what is good to wear, if you want to be “fashion forward” and not look like a buffoon.  You can just go with the flow and wear a standard business shirt, white shirt and red tie; or polo and khaki’s in a neutral color…or you can mix it up, brave it out, and try something a bit “new”.  I’ve listed the spring trends as penned by Esquire magazine, and have tried to come up with options that most men will wear.  Clearly not meant for everyone, but you can pick and choose what you like.

MEN’S SPRING FASHION TRENDS 2012 – compliments of Esquire Magazine

Even Bolder Colors
Colors were strong at the spring shows one year ago (the clothes that are in store now) but this time, hues that were once accents — oranges, greens and mustard — could become the focus of whole collections.  Instead of wearing these “bold” colors in a pair of pants, or suit jacket…you could try a pair of shoes, tie, belt  or shirt.  The shoes may be a bit of a stretch, but a green belt of yellow tie can rock.

A Boxy New Suit

Some designer labels will push a suit fit that feels new: it’s cleaner and looser, even boxier than we’ve seen recently.  It’s a direct contrast to what we’ve been seeing in seasons past.  And it prevents you from looking like a 12-year-old at a wedding. Classic line, btw. Thank you for that Esquire.  And I would like every man I know to wear an ensemble like this. Please.

The New Double-Breasted Blazer

These already had their true comeback. This time, we’ll see even more of them coming down the runways, and then landing in store racks. Especially in new and unexpected jacket proportions, as an updated version of all those  (Double-breasted) DBs out there.

Formerly Known as White
The color is everywhere on the streets this season — you have your jeans and blazer, right? — but this time we’ll see off-white, bone, even dirty white. All in contrast and answer to the crisper, bleached versions.

The End of Skinny

For seasons, trousers have become narrower and narrower — bridging the line between straight and skinny. We’ve reached the precipice, though, and designers have already begun returning to a more dramatic option: wider pants, both as separates and in suits.

The Mix, Mastered
The runway shows, to some extent, are always about combining the high and low. But this time, it’s about mixing formal with informal: luxury fabrics and eclectic pieces will be thrown together casually — almost like you don’t care. Even when everyone knows you do.  This first option most likely won’t work for my Fab 5 (Luke, Mark, David, Bruce and Mr. X), but a great shirt mixed up with a tie that is not the standard choice can be right on…and yes, this would be a great time to wear a pink tie!!!

Going With The Flow

We’re not sure about using the word “flowing,” here, but that’s exactly what’s expected: big designer brands may return once again to longer, wider, and, yes, flowing shapes.

More Looks I like…

Not too terribly difficult to follow, and what’s always most important is wear what you like and what you feel looks good on you.

And gentleman…if you do not have these in your wardrobe, please change that:

Sunglasses – a great, classic pair…like these Ray Ban’s or Aviators.

Watch – a classic, simple men’s watch.  Both these watches are less than $300, and you can wear for 20 years.

Wallet – a good, leather wallet.  Even Patrick, my 15-year old has a Ralph Lauren black leather wallet.  He’ll have it for years, and hopefully will have money in it.

Good Shoes – not scuffed.  You can tell a lot by a man by his shoes.  Get a great pair for work, and a great casual pair.  These Sperry’s would be better in brown, but the blue color goes with the Pop of color they’re telling you to do for spring.  Both these pair of shoes were less than $100.  The converse pair are meant as a joke.

And Zack…I think you always look great, but Meredith is clearly your best accessory.

Happy Spring!

Go Hoosiers!

xoxo,

T.

Source: http://www.esquire.com

The Art of Buying Jeans…

“I wish I had invented blue jeans. They have expression, modesty, sex appeal, simplicity – all I hope for in my clothes.”  Yves Saint Laurent

Jeans…we love ‘em, we live in ‘em, we hate trying them on, because we never know if  ”these jeans make my bum look big”.    Well, who knew there is actually an “art of buying jeans”? And I am happy to share with you, what I have read and learned.

Courtesy of  The Nest.

What are the key things to consider when buying jeans?
It’s all about fabric quality, fit, and authenticity because you want them to look and feel even better over time. It’s also important to have diversity. You need both a casual, comfortable everyday jean and a dressier, more fitted option.

What are a couple of warning signs that jeans will be low quality?
The most obvious telltale sign is if the wash looks contrived or fake. On the flip side, a sign of quality construction is a high stitch per inch count. The best quality jeans have 11 to 12 stitches per inch, meaning they have one of the highest stitch counts in the industry. This makes the jeans stronger, more durable, and less likely to split at the seams.

What are the biggest buying and wearing mistakes people make with new denim?
Following a trend for the sake of being trendy. You should always keep in mind your individual body type and what silhouette or fit looks best on you. For example, the tapered jean looks amazing on slimmer, taller types, curvier women look better in a straight or a boot-cut fit, and high-waisted options are perfect for someone who is short and wants to appear taller. Trend is irrelevant if the shape isn’t flattering, so go with what looks best on you.  (A  rule that will serve you well in all facets of fashion).  But if you want to buy a new style, consider bringing a friend along and ask for her honest opinion.

What should men keep in mind when they go jeans shopping?
The average man doesn’t want a busy back-pocket logo advertising his jeans. It’s a bit strange for a guy to have a decorative back-pocket. A clean one is ideal for a guy’s guy.  Here is an example of what NOT to do:

If you’re in between sizes, is it better to get the larger or smaller pair?
Go with the tightest fit they feel comfortable with because denim naturally stretches with wear. It’s better to buy snug jeans—they’ll loosen in time. When you wash jeans, they go back to their original fit, but you don’t want to have to wash them with every wear.

Care for your Denim

True denim aficionados never wash their jeans in order to let them wear in and age. The great thing about denim jeans is the more you wear them, the better they get. If things get really “unsanitary”, you can either spray them with Febreze or hand-wash in cold water and then line dry them. It’s always best to hang your jeans when you’re drying them to maintain their original shape and fit; don’t throw them in the dryer.

What should you ask your tailor when you have your jeans altered?

When hemming your jeans, it’s really important that you always ask your tailor to do a “reattached hem.” That way, the stitching in the finished product will look just like the original.

Source:  The Nest

How to Measure

Wearing only your underwear and standing with your feet together, use a tape measure to determine your measurements. It’s important to check the size chart on the product page of each brand you are considering, as sizes and measurements can vary greatly.

Measure your jeans from the top of the waistband to the bottom of the crotch seam to find the rise. Consult the size chart on any brand product page to see where the rise will sit on your torso.

Which Rise is best for you?  Keep in mind you can wear a long cami under a t-shirt, blouse or sweater, so as not to show the ever so unflattering “plumbers crack”.  Even mid-rise jeans these days are much, much lower than jeans I grew up with.  A long neutral or black cami under your top helps ensure modesty.

Low Rise
Waistband sits 2″ or more below navel.

Mid Rise
Waistband sits just below navel.

High Rise
Waistband sits at or above navel.

My Favorite looks with Jeans

If I had to give only one piece of advice to someone regarding jeans, and I’ve mentioned this before…If you find a pair of jeans you love, which fit you well, and look great on you…Buy a 2nd pair!  You will Never regret this, especially when something tragic happens to your favorite pair.  And…wear then intermittently, so both will have the same faded (or non-faded) look.  My favorite brand is Kut from the Kloth, which I find at Nordstrom.

From: Tim Gunn, A Guide to Quality, Taste and Style

“The basic denim wardrobe requires two fabulous pairs, one for dressing up and one for running around. If you wear jeans every day, of course, your collection should be larger. However, we feel that even the most ardent denim lover does not need more than ten pairs. Keep in mind that the average lifespan of a denim trend is 24 months. So please don’t invest too heavily in the trend of the moment. Considering how expensive designer denim has become, it’s better to fill out our wardrobe with fashion styles – stovepipe, cigarette, cropped – from lower priced lines.”

I BELIEVE I’m going to have a Great Weekend!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okQe_lmM8OI

xoxo,

T.

“On my best day, I am a seven-point-seven. I could be a hard eight if I felt great. If I went on a good run and had on my best pair of jeans, I could feel right on the money.”  Julie Roberts