S.T.Y.L.E. Q.&.A.
~How to wear big jewelry ~Pair black and white
~Find figure-flattering garments
Necklace, Boston Proper.
Q. I've seen big jewelry all over but I have no idea how to
pull it off. Please help!
A. Modern jewelry designers are finally having fun with large jewels
by layering beads, chains and multi-colored stones. The good is
that
there really aren't any rules because jewelry is a means of
self-expression
. However, if you wear too much, it may lose its
elegance and look tacky. If you're going to wear a crazy necklace,
pick earrings that are more simplistic, and vice versa. It's okay to
layer bracelets. Mix silver bangles with chunky turquoise pieces for
a sophisticated look. The most important thing is to
have fun!
Q. Black and white is back in style but it's so bland. How can
I spice it up?
A. Today's black and white essentials are far from boring.
Personally, I love wearing black because it truly flatters every
body.
Look for black and white pieces that are slim-fitting, or white
button-downs with some fringe or embellishment that sets it apart
from the crowd.
It's good to own a solid black sweater, which you
can dress up for parties with over-sized jewels or a colorful scarf.
For evening, choose dresses that flow over your curves like silk
and chiffon and wear with beautiful dangling earrings. Also, many
white pieces are touched with lace that no longer resembles
something your grandmother would wear.
Q. I love reading fashion magazines but I fall victim of the
trends and just as I'm catching up from last month, poof! it's
out of style. How can I stay up to date?
A. You should be less concerned with following the trends and
more focused on discovering a style that suits you. To start,
you
should buy several essential items that never fall out of style
, like
elegant scarves, crewneck sweaters or black pants. When your
clothing base is strong, you will only have to buy one or two new
items to incorporate into your seasonal style.
Being stylish does
not require running to the store every month and blowing your
paychecks on over the top fashions
that you may only wear once.
Another way you can update your outfits is by purchasing hip
accessories that follow current trends. Don't forget style is
personal and it should be fun!
The Hip Chick's Figure  
Fixers
We all have one body part that
never seems to look right when we
try on our clothes. Below, some
tips to flatter your least favorite
asset.
elongate your body
Pinstripe pants or blazers help to
give the illusion of longer
legs/torso.
hide your tummy
Wear an A-line dress or a loose
fitting silk top to conceal any
bulges.
slim the body
Tight-fitting pants with a single
button blazer have a slimming
effect. Narrow-toed shoes never
hurt either.
feminize a boyish frame
Flaunt your strong body in a pencil
skirt and a long sleeve black shirt
that shows off your collarbone.
minimize curves
Don't wear tight pants with no flare
because it will make your hips/butt
look heavy. Instead opt for bootcut
jeans.
disguise a large bust
Wear cropped jackets that take the
focus away from your chest and
place it on your waist.