Pearls seem to have taken on a life of their own.  Not since June Cleaver, have I seen so many pearls.  And not just pearls of wisdom, but beautiful, beautiful pearls.  And I love it!!  You can dress them up.  You can dress them down.  Pearls will never go out of style but they truly seem to be all the rage.   They are quite hip and trendy.  Kevin game me a pair (Princess length) for an anniversary and I received a pair from my Grandmother (Choker).  There are many lengths of pearls and many ways to wear them.  As Coco Chanel says, “A woman needs ropes and ropes of pearls”.

Collar:  A collar necklace has a Victorian look, and is often made up of two or more strands worn high on the neck. Pearl collars can be gracefully worn with V-neck or off-shoulder tops and dresses

Choker:  A choker pearl necklace is similar to a collar, yet more versatile and worn more loosely on the neck.

Princess:  A princess-length pearl necklace will go with almost anything and any neckline, from dinner dresses to a T-shirt and jeans. The strand normally lies on the upper-most chest and is most fittingly worn with knit sweaters, crew neck tops and high necklines as well as low ones.

Matinee:  A mid-length matinée pearl necklace, at 20-24 inches, is great with a business suit or a dress. The matinée is most suited for semi-formal occasions

Opera:  The opera pearl strand is 28-34 inches in length and normally a single strand. An Opera pearl necklace is naturally “opera” or best suited for formal engagements in evening dresses. The strand may be worn in two styles; a long elegant single strand, or doubled on itself and turned into a highly versatile, shorter length.

Rope:  The rope pearl necklace is very luxurious and highly sexy! You can have clasps along the length to help you break it down into shorter necklace and bracelet combinations but, on its own, its breathtaking.

Pearl necklaces are many things to many people. They express stature, elegance, and success.  (Source:  Pearls of Joy)

A different diagram with a different perspective

Here are some Looks I Love with Pearls

Disclaimer:  Dressed to a T does not have any specific political affiliations, I do think Michele Obama, Jackie Kennedy and Ann Romney all look fabulous wearing their pearls.

I especially love pairing up pearls with jeans and a sweater as well as stacking many different types of pearls together to make a chunkier, funkier look…but then, also pairing them with a Little Black Dress always rocks as well.  You can twirl your pearls with other types of necklaces to make an entirely different look.  Grab your pearls out of your jewelry box, and wear them tonight!

These are Not your everyday pearls!

And Shannon…this blog is for you, as when I first met you, you also were way ahead of Your time pairing your pearls with everything…and I do believe that goes back into the 80′s.  Even then you were way ahead of your time.  And you still are!  Shannon is also a rock star, and genuine friend, as highlighted with her high school friends this week on Good Morning America.  Check it out and pray for her friend, Hilarie.

http://gma.yahoo.com/blogs/abc-blogs/hilarie-laturno-battles-cancer-support-team-hilarie-174822726–abc-news-topstories.html

xoxo,

T.

I like finding “looks” I love, than recreating them with items in my own closet.  I find a picture that I like, print it out, and put them in a file on my computer, and print out the ones I really love, and put them in a binder.  When I want a new look, or fun new outfit, I look through the pictures and recreate that look from items I already own, in my own closet.  I make the outfit my own…and rarely do I ever wear a matching 2-piece suit.  I prefer to take the jacket and pair it with something different, and take the skirt and pair it with a cardigan, and cheetah belt.

Pair jeans with a frilly blouse, blazer and chunky, funky necklace.

Grey trousers paired with a black crew-neck sweater (or v-neck sweater) white blouse, chunky pearls and fancy party shoes.

Red plaid scarf, white blouse, black skinny jeans and animal-print booties or sandals.  Animal print booties are on my wish list..I don’t own any, but I really love this look.

Soft sweater-jacket with sheer blouse and large metallic necklace.  This also looks like it goes with a 2-piece suit, but it’s always important to break up the suits and wear with other items.

Faux fur vest or jacket, with leggings and heels.  Admittedly, many of us won’t own a jacket like this, but you can find faux fur vests and jackets at TJ Maxx or at resale shops.

I love the pale pink jacket…aka dress, paired with dark tights and high boots.  This is a tad shorter than I’d wear, but if you’re in your 20′s and 30′s and can pull it off, rock it on.

Print sheath dress, white trench and nude pumps.  Solid black tote, with pop of color in the scarf.

Terrific Neutrals

Love the pop of pink with the cheetah jacket!  I have a black/white faux-fur coat, which I plan on pairing with a very similar scarf.

love the white on white on white…and you can do this with black on black on black, but I prefer the look of “wow”.

Again…another animal print jacket!  I’d pop it with a red scarf and red sling backs.

fancy black skirt, white blouse and high heels.  The proper accessories and a dressy skirt, will ensure you don’t look like a waitress!

such a simple look to replicate.  Jeans, white blouse, black flats…and pop it with a great scarf and handbag!

ETCETERA Spring 2013

Another Travel Tip:  After wasting numerous gallon zip-lock bags trying to protect my clothes from bottle spills…here is a much cheaper, more efficient way. Unscrew the cap, place plastic wrap over the opening, and screw the cap back on…a Much easier spill solution.  I posted this on Facebook, but want to reach a broader audience, so will post it on my blog as well.

Coming Friday…Super Bowl Sunday!  What do wear; what to bring to a party; what to serve at a party; super bowl stats!

xoxo,

T.

I wouldn’t say I’m a huge fan of Stacy London (What Not To Wear).  I tend to think she can be rather “harsh”.  That being said, I do think she is chock full of great advice, and found this little tidbit, which I absolutely agree with Wholeheartedly.  So I present to you:

STACY’S STYLE TIPS

Choose Quality of Quantity – Look for pieces you’ll have for a long time, and that aren’t trendy. This is great advice and one I wish I had learned early on.  As I’ve mentioned before …I have way too many clothes, and many are not timeless, sadly.  I used to buy Quantity, not Quality.  Now, I angle towards quality, over quantity…though I also have a large quantity.

Don’t Always Wear Black – She says that over 35, black makes you look older. Oopsie.  Black is my staple.  Happily, I’m not over 35.   Though, I must admit I have been much better this summer with splashes of color…I have a casual, orange t-shirt material dress, that’s made an appearance 3 times (and I’ve journal-ed it to ensure the same people don’t see it too often).   If the Bears Opener is a warm-weathered day, I’ll wear the orange t-shirt dress, paired with a denim jacket and cheetah print sandals…Blue and Orange.  Go Bears!

Pictured below is a fabulous looking chocolate-brown outfit, which I’m thinking is a “must-have” for fall.

Aim High - Shop one tier up in designers that you are wearing. I used to wear Liz Claiborne clothes, religiously…now almost everything I own is Etcetera…I’d say Etcetera is a step up from Liz Claiborne.   Of course, I wore Liz back in the 80′s and 90′s, but who’s counting?  I am also trying to feather in other designers into my wardrobe.  A friend sells Doncaster, and I have some fabulous leather jackets from that line, that I’ve had for years, and are indeed, timeless.

Make a List - Only shop for items you need. Again, Oopsie. Of course, since I’ve been shopping in my own closet, I’ve gotten much better than I used to be.  And Pinterest has truly helped me explore new ideas of fun, new ways to pair up outfits, with clothes I have in my closet.   And that shall be a future blog, btw.

Don’t Forget the Basics – Day and Cocktail dress; Fitted Jacket;  Trench Coat and a buttery Leather Jacket.  Perfectly fitting Jeans.  Great White Blouse. A handbag you cannot live without!  Have fun with Accessories.

Here’s another ideas of some good basics to make sure you have in your wardrobe…though have to say, in my old age, not sure I’ve ever had a “flannel” shirt in my repertoire.  Flannel pj’s, yes.  Flannel shirt, not so much.

Think Versatility – I love this tip…I’ve always said when you find a pair of jeans you love, buy 2…this takes it a step further, you still buy 2 of the same pair of jeans, but have one hemmed for flats and the other hemmed for heels. Brilliant!

Treasure the remaining weeks of summer. Hug and smooch your kids if you’re lucky to still have them at home. And Go Broncos and Paddy in his first Sophomore game!!  This picture is at least 5 years old, I’ve used it before, but I love it, and I love to look at it.

xoxo,

T.

Upcoming Blogs:  Michael Kors Style tips; Saving $$$ in College; Fall Fashion Trends!

And It’s good to be King (well, someday)! And Prince Harry…well, he certainly is something!

I saw this on The Today Show (which I have to say, I’m not too thrilled with how they handled the departure of Ann Curry, however, since I wear a white T (v-neck) at least 4 days a week in the summer, I though this merited a mention) and there are some great tips and suggestions on incorporating the white T into your wardrobe.  The little white T is as versatile in your wardrobe as the little black dress.  Packing for our summer getaway, I have packed almost as many white t-shirts as I have undergarments!  :)

Work

Wear as a shell…Pair with skirt and blazer, or skirt, slacks and a cardigan.  Throw in some neutral accessories.  Easy to transition from day to night.

BBQ

Pair with pair of Bermuda Shorts.  Jazz it up with fun accessories and sandals or flats

Night out on the Town

Pair with white jacket and black slacks or a cute pair of crop pants with sharp accessories.  Gladiator sandals or high heels are a great way to complete the outfit.

Weekend Looks

Colored jeans and fun scarf and you are ready to go anywhere…errands, lunch with the girls, watch a ball game, or a visit to a wine bar!

Special Occasion

Pair with great skirt and fun jewelry.  Tuck in the shirt and wear a fabulous pair of fancy shoes and fancier jewelry.  I have this sequined skirt in gold, and while I like to pair it with a white blouse and jean jacket, for the summer, I pair it with a t-shirt, play down the jewelry (so as not to over-bling myself…as even I have limits), and wear with either Tory Burch gold flip-flops, or dress it up a bit with gold gladiator sandals.

Other Fun looks with White T’s

Men in T’s

I get my White T’s at Nordstrom (Anniversary Sale starts today, btw), and get the Caslon brand.  I basically buy them in bulk, because I do wear them year-round and I like a v-neck.  I also love the J. Hilburn Luxury Men’s t-shirt in White!  Both men and women can wear it.  The Gap and Hanes are also great, tried and true tested brands, which get high praise from others.  And yes gals, you can wear a Men’s t-shirt, but make sure it fits and it’s not to large, otherwise you might as well have “I’m With Stupid” blazened across the front!  Guess that’s a good reason you can buy it in women’s sizes.

The white t-shirt…You can dress it up, you can dress it down…but just don’t leave home without it!!

What kind of shirt does a Golfer wear?

A Tee Shirt!!

Enjoy a little of the Rhythm of Love by the Plain White T’s.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JWiwuiT58Yc

Bon Voyage!!

xoxo,

T.

Women who wear skirts in the workplace are more likely to make a good impression and get a promotion.  Or so says a new study.

Pants on women are Not as favored in the workplace as skirts are on women.    This recent poll  revealed that skirts give a better first impression rather than pants.  Whom, may I ask participated in this survey?  Was it men?  Is it due to the popularity of Mad Men?  Is it because of my blog, featuring skirts with boots?  300 people surveyed (which I guess makes it a valid poll) felt strongly about this.  Now I happen to be a girl who always wears skirts and dresses (except at a Bears game), but I still  think women who wear pants, look just as fabulous as those who wear skirts and dresses (as long as they fit properly and are worn with confidence)…but that’s just me…I’m just a “blogger”.

Professor Karen Pine, who co-led the research at the University of Hertfordshire, said that the results contradicted previous studies that suggested women should dress more like men to succeed in business.  Perhaps that’s why Pant Suits were All the Rage in the 90′s?

Scientists showed 300 people pictures of women dressed in navy blue skirt suits and pant suits.
The clothing was identical in every way except for the bottoms.   Within three seconds, the majority perceived that the women wearing skirts were more confident, successful and powerful than their trouser clad sisters.

The results concluded that the option women have to wear such attire creates a competitive advantage within the workplace.

“People are judged on their overall head-to-toe appearance and the fundamental role that a dress plays in creating a positive first impression cannot be underestimated,” the Sydney Morning Herald quoted Professor Pine as telling the Daily Mail.

“Women still have to maintain an identity that balances professionalism with attractiveness. The skirt suit may achieve that balance without appearing provocative,” he added. (ANI)

(Copyright 2011 Asian News International)

I love skirts.  90% of the time, for a business appointment or meeting, I either wear a skirt (or suit paired with skirt) or a dress.  Is it because I’m trying to get ahead?  Hardly…It’s because that’s what I like to wear.  15 years ago, I was all about pant suits.  Times have changed, as have I.  I’m also in the hospitality business, along with my little Dressed to a T business, so I don’t  have a specific “dress code” that I need to adhere to.  I wear what I like, and what’s comfortable and pretty sure I’m not offending people with how I dress.    (And I won’t even mention what the clothing choices are of some of the people I work with are;)).  It’s all about what makes people happy, what’s appropriate for your office and profession and what feels comfortable.   Though I know people in more stringent professions, like banking or law, do have more specific dress codes.  If there’s a question, air on the side of caution, and dress more traditionally, or check with Human Resources.  Luckily I work for a company that doesn’t have a specific dress code, nor a human resources department (well not in the official sense of the word).

These are some great skirt options, though I’d like to see Bachelorette #4 wear a nice cardigan.

Now I love the suit below, but not sure the shoes are totally “work appropriate”…depending on your office environment.  Truth be told, not a fan of those shoes…but love the suit.

…and I find these skirt suits and skirts to be absolute perfection…and left the best for last…the leather skirt!  I must have 12, and  I believe they’re timeless.  Please make sure the leather skirt is an appropriate length, no shorter than 3″ above your knee (for work, but it’s a rule I happen to follow for both work and play).  Pair the leather skirt with a great suit jacket and boots, or tights and chunky heeled shoes.  Or pair the leather skirt with a black turtleneck (short or long-sleeved) and boots, hoop earrings, chunky bracelet, and great handbag.  You’re dressed professionally and ready to rule the world. (Again, make sure a lether skirt is appropriate in your workplace and profession).

And I shall continue to wear skirts and dresses…and not because I’m trying to get ahead (I mean, Really?), but because I like them, and wearing skirts and dresses makes me happy.

Upcoming Blogs for the remainder of the year for your enjoyment (well, at least I hope for your enjoyment):

Dressing for an Interview

Hostess Gifts

Holiday Gift Ideas

More Holiday Gift Ideas

Black Friday…Part Deux

Stocking Stuffers…Part Deux

I really am a Savvy Packer!

MANic Monday…All about Sport Coats and Suits

Asked and Answered…a self-serving blog (but aren’t they all?) answering the Top 10 questions that I get asked, all the time.

Have a great weekend.

xoxo,

T.

p.s. - Go Bears!!

And yet we have another age-old fashion question…how to dress for our body types and shapes?

It has taken me 3 months of compiling various articles from magazines, books (via Kindle on my iPad) and the internet to give a complete picture of What to Wear for one’s Body Shape…Because this blog is longer than the norm, I have provided a Cliff Notes version at the end of this blog.

Styling Rules do Not apply to everyone.   As a matter of fact, they should be customized to the individual.  What looks good on one person, can look not-so-terrific on another.  Since everyone comes in different body sizes and shapes, we can learn what to wear and what to avoid in order to best flatter our body shape.

You need to learn what your body type is.  Once you understand your body type, it’s easier to dress in ways that best flatter your figure.  I only wish there wasn’t this god-awful picture depicting “Apple”, “Athletic”, etc…could it be anymore unflattering?

Apple or Inverted Triangle Shape

Larger shoulders and or bust; excess weight often accumulates around the tummy.

Inverted triangle or apple-shaped women can showcase great legs and create an attractive silhouette by creating balance between a larger bust and shoulders and thinner legs. Clothing combinations that works well for this body type includes:

• Short skirts paired with slimming tunic tops
• V-neck tops worn with boot cut or slightly flared mid-rise jeans
• Blouses with a slightly nipped waist with flared skirts
• One button jackets with an above-the waist stance with wide leg trousers
• A-line solid color dresses

Dark and solid colors for tops work great for apple shapes because they create a more balanced appearance with their slimmer legs.

Pear or Triangle Shape

Narrower shoulders and upper torso; weight gain can be seen in hips, legs, and thighs.
Clothing for this body shape should balance out heavier legs and hip areas with a slimmer top half. Do this with clothing choices such as:

• Just-below-the-knee length plain colored skirts with patterned blouses
• Boot cut jeans paired with boat neck or scoop neck tops
• A-line skirts with three-quarter sleeve wrap blouses
• Straight leg trousers with jackets that hit slightly above the hip
• Wrap dresses in simple prints or solids

Pear body types can usually opt for darker colored bottoms and have fun exploring lots of print and design in terms of tops to create a proportionate appearance and draw eyes upward.

Rectangular or Straight Shape

Often a slim or athletic figure; this body type has fewer defined curves and extra weight does not show up in one prominent area.

Ladies with rectangular or ruler shaped bodies are considered lucky by many because they are often slender in build. The challenge for this body type is typically that women want to appear more curvy and feminine. Clothing options for straight body shapes to create curves include:

• Pencil skirts paired with belted jackets
• Blouses with ruching or other dimensional details with flared- leg jeans
• Cap neck or polo shirts worn with modern boot cut trousers or jeans
• Dresses with a fitted bodice or nipped waist and full skirt
• Layered ensembles

Rectangle body shapes can also wear item like shift dresses that can be constricting to curvier figures. Contrasting styles, such as bulky sweaters and slim jeans, can also work to break up the vertical lines of a ruler shaped figure.

Hourglass

Defined waist and curvy figure; extra weight shows up in both the bust and hip area.

With a defined waist and feminine curves, the hour-glass figure fits many styles of clothing without trouble. To show off a classic hourglass, consider the following clothing choices:

• Flared jeans with scoop neck tees
• Three-quarter length slitted skirts with v-neck wrap blouses
• Nipped waist jackets worn with straight leg trousers
• Halter style or classic dresses

The right clothing for different body shapes can truly help women bring out their best physical attributes. Have confidence no matter what your shape with clothes that fit and flatter!

And because this blog is extra long (LAP), I have provided the cliff notes version:

QUICK TIPS

1.   Wear the right clothes for your body shape and you’ll fill out and slim down areas, creating a proportional body shape with no heavy point that interrupts the eye.

2.   Choose the right cut and length to make a wide rear  (and thighs), boyish hips and a full torso look less noticeable.

3.   Your goal is to create a visually balanced yet feminine body – making it look like your bust and shoulders are at the same width as your hips.

4.   If your hips are greatly wider than the shoulders, then add more volume to your top half.

5.   If you have a straight waist, find clothes that will add dimensions to your upper and lower part, making your torso look narrower in comparison.

6.   Choose clothing that fits properly every time, from the dresses to business suits. Whether you have an angular or ultra curvy figure, are short or tall, clothing that is either baggy or too tight will not be flattering on any figure.

7.   Another tip that applies to all the different body shapes is: don’t buy an item of clothing just because it’s trendy. Not every trend works on every body type. Classic clothing for different body shapes can be purchased in more modern cuts, and you can accent your base wardrobe with a few pieces of trend clothing that are appropriate for your body

“Highlight the positive and delete the negative.” Donna Karan

Since I had over 700 views on Sunday alone, after that travesty that one may have called the Bears v Packers game (though admittedly,  did I have a great time at the game), I may write an addendum to my previous blog(s) re: Jay Cutler needs a Life Coach.  I think Jay Cutler needs an Offensive Line.  And the Bears could Also use a Life Coach!

Happy Dressing!  And that also goes for those Chicago Bears!

xoxo,

T.

A woman walked into a bar carrying a duck under her arm. “Get that pig out of here!” yelled the bartender. “That’s not a pig, stupid!” she replied, “That’s a duck!” “I know!” said the bartender, “I was talking to the duck!” 

 

What does a Guy wear to a football game?

You can tell it’s Football Season, since I will be peppering in football-related blogs throughout the season…And as I’ve done with “What a girl packs for college”…when I penned the equal opportunity blog for the Guys…I shall do the same with, “Are you ready for some Fashion”  regarding what a Girl should wear to a football game, with the Guys version of what Men should wear to a football game.

http://dressedtoat.wordpress.com/2010/10/11/are-you-ready-for-some-fashion/

I present you with the equal opportunity blog, “Are you ready for some Fashion…for the Guys”.  And can do it in 3 words:

Your Team Jersey!

In a nutshell, if you are a guy, you can and should wear the Jersey of your team.   You can wear one from a current player, or that of a past player.  And had Lance Briggs, not have acted like a pompous, greedy jerk, I would have inserted his jersey in here as well.  Hey Lance, you signed a contract, be a man of your word, and live with it.  Don’t use the media to try to get more money from your team.  How do you think the players from the 70′s and 80′s feel when Your signing bonus, was basically the amount of money they made playing their entire career?  So alas, no Briggs jersey here.

And if you do not have a team jersey to wear, you can wear the colors of your team.  Blue and Orange.  But you probably have a jersey, or can borrow one from a friend.   Or perhaps you have a t-shirt or sweatshirt (and I love hoodies) of your favorite team (Bears).  If you look around Soldier Field, basically Every Guy is wearing a Bears Jersey (unless of course they’re rooting for the opposing team.  Ugh).

So there you have it…Wear a football jersey.  Your team’s jersey.  Easy.  Unlike women, who have to be sure we don’t look like a linebacker, and need to follow other NFL fashion-rules,  Men have it sooooooo easy when dressing for a football game!

Go Bears!

xoxo,

T.

ps…I am Still Not a fan of Ben Roethlisberger – he also could use a life coach

Coming on Friday…Jay Cutler Needs a Life Coach…Part Deux!

In case of Emergency, a Wardrobe Emergency…one should have a Wardrobe Emergency Kit (and will need one after break dancing)! 

Wardrobe Malfunctions…and no, clearly this has not happened to me (aka Janet Jackson), however, I have spilled on my blouse, I’ve had my hem fall down, been given a White Napkin while wearing a black skirt, and had lint all over me, and been out wearing high heels and smiled through the blisters forming on my feet…So these, and other fashion tragedies, call for everyone to have their Own Wardrobe/Fashion  Emergency Kit…Now I’ve gotten one of these lists from my other bible…”The Everygirl’s Guide to”…so it’s geared more towards women (hence, ‘Everygirl’s Guide)’…actually, it’s totally geared towards women.  Perhaps I shall post a Man’s Emergency Kit in the next MANic Monday.  Afterall, I am an equal opportunity blogger, and what Man can’t use their own double-sided tape to keep their polo from flying open?

In Case of a Wardrobe Emergency, Have these items on hand:

1. A full length mirror in a well-lit area. Obviously, a full length mirror will help you find out if something fits well, and a well-lit area will ensure that your dress/top/pants are not see through or that you need to change undergarments.  Sorry, but there was no other way in which to word this…But to be blunt…you do NOT want your underwear showing through your clothes. I really don’t care what the guys like.
2. A Lint Roller.  A quick swipe with a lint roller can fix almost any stains or things that are NOT supposed to be there. Another helpful hint: if you’re wearing dark-colored bottoms in a nicer restaurant with linen napkins, ask your hostess for a black napkin. They usually keep a bunch in stock, and it will ensure that you won’t spend the rest of your day or evening trying to pick lint balls off your legs!  Because we have white carpeting in our house (not a wise move, btw), I also use the lint roller to quickly pick up those little tiny specks of I don’t know what, and the carpet looks good as new, and alleviates the need to have to vacuum every day!
3. Fashion/Double-sided tape. If I’m wearing a button up top or blouse, I  put some fashion tape between those two buttons that always manage to gap open! Works like a charm…(though don’t always need it).   I’ve even used it to hold up a hem in a pinch.
4. Blister block. I’ve blogged about this little item, and now I got Meredith hooked!  This little gem has saved my feet from painful blisters more times than I care to admit.  And when I forget this little tip, I’m regretting it all night!   Swipe a little on the  areas of your feet that rub against the shoe and starts to cause a blister, and toss the little tube in your bag for touch ups later.  Or, in a pinch, you can use gel deodorant.  Though it’s harder to “throw that in your bag”
5. In keeping with the feet theme, Shoe Pads. These little lifesavers come in all kinds of shapes, brands, prices and sizes. You can pick up a pack at anywhere from Walgreens to Nordstrom.  Foot Petals are a popular brand, and Dr. Scholl’s has numerous types of foot pads and solutions to alleviate pain from the ball of your feet to the heel of your foot!

6. Nude/Metallic Pump or High Sandal – If you are ever at a loss as to what color shoe to wear, or cannot seem to find the correct shade of brown or red that matches…go with a Nude or Metallic Shoe.  They seriously go with anything from a LBD to a floral mini to skinny jeans and a white blouse.  I have metallic shoes in high heel sandals, and flats, and since I’m a savvy packer (;) ) I always travel with them.
7. A sewing kit. This may be the most obvious item on the list, but it’s probably also the most helpful. Keep some extra buttons, and make sure you have safety pins.  Always put one of the small sewing kits you get at hotels in your travel kit.
8. Dryer sheets. These aren’t just for throwing in the dryer! If you smear deodorant on your clothes, use a dry dryer sheet to rub it off.  These also help alleviate static cling!  Plus, after many summers watching little league, they can be used to keep away mosquitos!
9. A Tide to Go Pen or Shout Wipes. I am the clumsiest person ever…so not only do I trip and fall (on solid, dry ground, btw), but I’m always spilling.  These are super handy, and can help save your favorite blouse.  Be careful to only dab with the shout wipe, so you don’t end up with a wet stain on your shirt or pants….which the big wet stain on your pants can attract more attention than the speck of ketchup!

10. Well fitting undergarments. Because of my 5 male blog followers, and based on the fact that they are all always giving me a hard time with snarky comments, I shall not elaborate on this…but you girls know what I mean.  If not Private Message me and I shall elaborate.    Plus, based on ”Mr. X’s”  comment from Monday’s blog on Men’s Summer Fashion Faux Pas, “I’m disappointed to hear that Speedo’s now classify as a fashion don’t.  I hope this is a new development on the fashion front since I was rocking that look in South Beach a few weeks ago.  I must say, I did get more than my fair share of attention.  Stuffing them with a potato may have been the reason for my popularity that day! “ …it would be Open Season on me and my little blog…so shall forego elaborating any further!  Oh, and Mr “X”…bring it on!

“I find it handy to keep all of these items together in my house (I store most of these in a hole in my shoe rack), and if you really want to be prepared, keep duplicates in your car or purse (a lot of these things have mini versions, too!) “ (Maria Menounos)

Keep these tiny tools on hand for those minor mishaps!

Mini Wardrobe Emergency Kit:

• A small can of static guard can rescue you from the “creeping/clinging skirt” syndrome.  $2 at Drugstores.
• Attach a tiny Swiss Army knife and a safety-pin to your key chain.These two tools are indispensable for speedy saves.  $20, swissarmy.com.
• Wet Ones moist towelettes leave minimal water rings and work on most stains, even makeup, says costume designer Mona May. Put a towel under the stain to absorb the liquid, then pat; don’t rub.  $2.50 at drugstores.
• This Mini Sewing Kit, packed with essentials, is about as big as a pack of gum.  $7, containerstore.com.
• A tiny Evercare travel-size Lint Pic-Up Adhesive Roller is handy and smaller than your palm.  $1 at drugstores.

And to prove that size does Not matter…I received this fabulous small emergency kit from my friend Nancy:

Minimergency® Kit for Her
This Minimergency® Kit is an all-inclusive set designed to help women survive beauty, fashion, and personal care predicaments. Fix flyaways with a teeny-tiny hairspray. Stop runs in your hose with clear nail polish. Mend a fallen hem with double-sided tape. This kit does it all—and it comes in a cute gold metallic bag to boot.

This set contains:
- 0.017 oz Blistex® Lip Ointment
- Dental Floss
- Ice Drops Breath Freshener
- Emery Board
- 0.8 oz Clear Nail Polish
- 1 Nail Polish Remover Pad
- 0.1 oz Hair Spray
- Clear Elastics
- Earring Backs
- 1 Stain Remover Towelette
- Double-Sided Tape
- Mending Kit
- 1 Deodorant Towelette
- 1 Small Latex-Free Bandage
- 1 Regular Tampon
- 1 Packet of 2 Tablets of Advil®

The Only thing that separates us from the animals is our ability to accessorize! (Phyllis Coneset…though she may have heard it from Steel Magnolia’s, but I would like to credit Phyllis with this little nugget!)

May you always be Prepared and Exceptionally Accessorized!

xoxo,

T.

Like many women, I get giddy when I think of jewelry (and shoes and handbags and chardonnay).  I rarely go out of the house without a watch and earrings.  It’s what I do and who I am.  When I go out at night, I do tend to “bling it up”.  The 3-bling rule is a great reminder that less is more.  There are many fashion experts that say when going out at night, take off 1 piece of jewelry, and then you will be accessorized just perfectly.

• Sparkly dress (2 bling points) + earrings (1 bling) – necklace = 3 bling points
• Black dress (0 bling) + bold necklace (1 bling) + cocktail ring (1 bling) + shoes or bag (1 bling) – big earrings = 3 bling points
• Dramatic updo (1 bling) + drop earrings (1 bling) + bracelet or ring(1 bling) – necklace = 3 bling points
• Jeweled cuff bracelet (1 bling) + shimmery metallic sandals (1 bling) + bold red lipstick  (1 bling) – watch = 3 bling points

Remember not to use all your bling points in the same vicinity. Location matters (just like in real estate). If you are wearing a big cocktail ring, wear a smaller bracelet.  Wearing  large chandelier earrings?   Don’t wear a large necklace.  (Heavy earrings that make your earlobes sag are Not Cool.  When purchasing large earrings, make sure they are light and don’t make your earlobes sag).  If you have a sparkly dress, limit the amount of bling.  If you are sporting the world’s most Fabulous shoes (shown above), make sure the dress is simple without too much bling.  Same goes for the Stunning Judith Leiber holiday clutch.  The shoes or clutch  becomes the focus.  Don’t have your jewelry clash with them.  If you choose to dazzle the world with fancy hair, then go more simple with the make-up.  Everything in moderation.

Some examples of the 3-Bling Rule:

And for the men…all I have to say, is please Avoid…at All Costs…the Bling- Bling Pinky Ring!

Don’t have your own bling?  Like Bag Borrow or Steal and other luxury rental sites, Borrowed Bling allows you to rent red-carpet-worthy jewelry at a nominal charge.   www.borrowedbling.com

TIP:  When going out for a big, important event…have a “dress rehearsal” and have a friend take some photo’s in your evening attire, complete with hair, make and accessories.  This way you can see what the rest of the world sees, and become your own fashion and beauty editor. 

“Diamonds are forever…jewelry is not”.  Upgrade and update your jewelry…while I have many vintage pieces I wear from my mother or grandmother, and even some bought at a flea market, old jewelry can be just that…old jewelry. 

And if you just don’t want to bling out when going out?  Make sure your personality sparkles…and that’s all the bling you will need!

xoxo,

T.

And Audrey Hepburn is Perfection… WWAD?  When in doubt, ask?…What would Audrey Do?

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The invitation read, “Ball Attire Requested”.  Really?  When was the last time you were invited to a Ball?  Well, my friend Cathy was invited to a wedding, and the invitation indicated, “best ball attire requested”.  She asked for help, because this doesn’t happen to people everyday.  Cathy, I will get back to You after I find that darned shoe I lost last night.

So…one asks, What does one wear to a “Ball”?  I went to my trusty source, UrbanDictionary.com…hoping for a funny, snappy definition, and this is what I got:   A garment of clothing worn usually by women as a formal wear.   That’s it?  I was hoping for something a tad more snarky.  Of course, I’m sure there’s a SomeEcard for that!   Plus, many of the “ball gowns” look like Prom Dresses anyway…and with what girls wear now for Proms, and the price they spend on dresses, a prom dress can also be a ball gown.  And, don’t hate her…but my friend Cathy could actually wear Most of her daughter’s friend’s prom dresses…and she’ll rock them, actually!

When I googled Ball Gowns (not one word, btw)…I have to say, many looked like Wedding Gowns.  So I guess in this new era, you can get married, wear your lovely white gown, then wear it Again for a Ball.  I know people talk about wearing bridesmaid dresses several times (and who really does?)…but truly, based on what I’ve seen, I dare say you can certainly get away with wearing your wedding gown for a ball.

So Cathy, a ball gown is a lovely gown (long) with either a full or a straight skirt.  It can be any color…black, red, white, pink or lilac…or any other color of the rainbow…or not even on the rainbow.  You can wear a ball gown to your own wedding, to your prom, or to a party requesting “ball attire”.  A ball gown is worn for ballroom dancing and only the most formal social occasions according to rules of etiquette. It is traditionally a full-skirted gown reaching at least to the ankles, made of luxurious fabric, delicately and exotically trimmed. Most versions are cut off the shoulder with decollete necklines.  (Wikipedia).

And… based on my extensive research and knowledge on this subject (Ahem)…here are my choices for you to wear to the Ball-themed wedding:

Tiara, of course, optional.

http://dressedtoat.wordpress.com/2010/09/16/what-about-a-tiara/

xoxo,

T.

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