Dress Review, Guide, Tips & Tricks

How to go from 9-to-5 to After-5 in A Flash!

It’s 5 o’clock – but it’s not quitting time. Instead, it’s the holiday office party . And if you're like most women it's an event that can leave you shrugging your shoulders and wondering what in the world to wear.

Complicating matters further: When you don’t have time to stop home and change – and must go right from a day behind a computer to a night of champagne cocktails.

But before try to spend the day doing spread sheets in a sequined tank top and glittery tulle skirt listen up: With just a little clever accessorizing you can turn any typical work outfit into a classy party look.

Where do you begin? By starting your day with the most basic wardrobe essentials - a black or other solid color suit or dress. Or, if you wear slacks to work, choose a pair of solid trousers and matching color sweater.

Now if you're thinking that so far, this doesn't sound very festive, hold on - because the magic is about to begin. Waving the wand is the power of accessories - the best way to go from daytime to nighttime in a flash!

To help you get started: Here are 10 super CountryDutchess tips that can turn any basic work attire into a glamorous night time look .The best part: You can carry the entire transformation in a plastic baggy stashed in your purse!

1. Never overlook the glam power of a great pair of earrings. And, the more dramatic the better. If you always wear nothing but small studs or tiny hoops, here’s a chance to wow colleagues with your style by choosing a dramatic pair of Boho chandeliers or a dressy crystal drop earring. It's instant glamour for even the simplest dress.

2. Fill in your neckline with color and light, adding either a sparkly lame scarf, or better still, a crystal necklace in a shimmering gold, silver or bright color. This will bring both light and color to your face and dramatically change your overall look.

3. If you’re not the necklace type jazz up your look with several brightly colored crystal pins. But skip the Christmas trees, wreaths that light up when you pull the string and Santa Claus faces. Instead chose one, large glistening crystal pin reminiscent of a snow flake and surround it with several smaller styles in colors that match either your earrings . . .or your eyes!

4. Bracelets can also add instant glamour but this year the look is to wear them in multiples in different textures and colors. If you start with a few crystal beaded designs, you can then add a metal bangle or a dress watch into the mix for a look that is eclectic and casual, yet festive. Push up the sleeves on your jacket or sweater, to give bracelets maximum exposure.

5. Another great “glam” look this year is matching cuff bracelets, one for each hand. To create the look for less, skip the expensive precious metal and gemstones and opt for costume cuffs set with faux stones.

6. Remember those plain black pumps that carried you up the train steps and down the hall all day long? Glam them up as well with this year’s hottest new style accessory – shoe clips! From floppy chiffon bows, to glistening crystal flowers, to tailored, gold or silver insignias, you can quickly turn a plain pump into a designer shoe - and take your entire outfit to a whole new level in the process.

7. Finish off your look with one, fabulously large cocktail ring – a great fake won on any finger. Indeed, the look this year is “You've got it, so flaunt it” style – using large center stones to create a big presence on even the tiniest of hands. But remember, just one is all you need!

8. Nothing screams “day at the office” more than a clunky, large tote bag –and it can ruin an otherwise perfect evening look. To keep that from happening, pare down the essentials you normally carry and take only the things you really need - like a driver's license, credit card, cash and keys. Then tuck in a small evening bag. When party time arrives, transfer the essentials to the smaller bag and tuck the tote in a desk drawer or locker and retrieve it the next day.

9. When it comes to glammjng up your makeup, don’t try to redo your entire face. Instead use only a few products to add accents of glamour - like a frosted lipstick, an extra coat of mascara, and just a hint of frosted powder or blush (not both) on the very tops of your cheekbones and around the perimeter of your hairline. Remember, you don’t want to look like Tinkerbell – so use a light hand.

10. For instant party hair, pick up one of those fabulous new clip-on chignons – faux hair that attaches to your own hair with a secure butterfly clip. If you have long hair, pull it back in a bun or pony tail and clip on the piece. If your hair is short, tuck in the ends with bobby pins and clip the chignon at the base of your neck , Add those glamorous earrings and you'll have instant ballerina glamour - chic, sophisticated and stylish!


by: Victoria Winston

Labels: Dressing for Holiday Office Party

You’ve pored through prom magazines, hit all the hot shops and finally selected the perfect prom dress. Your shoes are gorgeous. Your date is too. You know how you’ll wear your hair and makeup, and you’ve booked your limo and decided which after-party to attend. But have you thought about your prom jewelry? If you’re like many girls, the answer is probably no.

Why is prom jewelry an afterthought for so many? Even prom checklists published in major magazines rarely include jewelry in their ‘To Do’ timelines. Strange, because jewelry can make or break your look. Think Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s: Holly Golightly would have looked decidedly naked without her beautiful multi-strand pearl necklace!

When choosing the perfect prom jewelry, which, ideally, you should do weeks before your big night, there are a few things to consider. First, what style is your dress? Second, how will you wear your hair? And third, what’s your personal style? Finally, you’ll need to work within a budget that makes sense (unless you’ve been saving your babysitting money since you were 11).

Your Prom Dress

This year’s prom dresses are all about vibrant colors—bold silvery metallics and jewel tones are everywhere, and designers have shown them off dramatically on two key dress styles: the strapless and the plunging neckline. Your jewelry choice is clear here: Bold pieces are the only way to carry bold dresses. Think chandelier earrings, oversize cocktail rings, and wide cuff bracelets. One exception: Delicate pendants are hot right now, and they can work with a bold style if you pair them with dramatic earrings or a big bracelet in a similar style. For example, a lavender pearl pendant set with white gold will look stunning with a lavender or white gold cuff.

Keep things simple and keep in mind that you should choose pieces that will complement your look. For example, if you’re wearing a simple strapless sheath in a bold color, you want to accessorize with a bold piece of jewelry. But don’t overwhelm your look with jewelry in the same color as your dress—that’s too much of a good thing. Pick one or two standout pieces—both diamond jewelry and pearl jewelry will look stunning against jewel tones or metallics—such as chandelier earrings and a cocktail ring, or earrings and a cuff. Don’t do a bold necklace and chandelier earrings, however; that’s too much bling too close together.

Of course, you might choose to go with a soft and romantic dress instead of the season’s bold styles. In that case, stick to classic jewelry like pearls, diamonds and yellow gold. Consider wearing several styles for a modern look. Layer long, thin gold chain necklaces with shorter pearl strands, or wrap multiple pearl strands and gold chains around your wrist. These options are gorgeous and fresh.

Your Prom Hairstyle

If your hair is short or you’ll be wearing an updo, the sky’s the limit as far as prom earrings go. You can do a dainty stud—pearl studs and diamond studs always look classic—delicate hoops, or a long chandelier-style earring. Remember, if you choose a chandelier earring, keep your necklace simple, or don’t wear one at all. If you choose studs or small hoops you can get away with a big bold necklace, like gobstopper size faux pearls or big, chunky gemstones, or you can try the layered look. If your hair is long and you’ll be wearing it down, chandelier earrings are your best bet—it’s the only style people will actually see, and, luckily, as you’ve learned, chandelier earrings are all the rage this year. Just keep flowers and other adornments out of your hair so you won’t overwhelm your look. Remember, less is more!

Your Personal Style
If your style is more goth than Vogue, for Pete’s sake don’t get talked into wearing your grandmother’s dainty pearl necklace, your mother’s diamond pendant, or something that just isn’t you. After all, this is your big night, and you’ll have the pictures forever to remind you. Stay true to who you are and you’ll look and feel like a prom queen no matter how the voting goes.

Go Shopping

Now that you’ve examined your dress, your hair and your personal style and decided on the prom jewelry that will best accessorize your look, it’s time to go shopping. You can always hit the mall, but your best bet is to go online (unless you can raid your mother’s or sister’s jewelry box). Sites that allow you to comparison shop will let you find the pieces you love that fit into your budget. Or you can use a search engine to return multiple sites that have, say, pearl stud earrings and narrow it down by color, price, etc. Shopping online allows you to view prom jewelry such as pearl pendants, chandelier earrings, cuff bracelets and the like in just about every price bracket. It also saves time. One caveat: Only purchase jewelry from trusted stores—sites that clearly post their phone number and address and have a Verisign or other secure shopping logo. Before you buy, also check out return policies in case something is wrong with the jewelry or you just don’t like it. Many sites offer free shipping, too, which is a plus. Make sure you order in time for prom.

Last point to keep in mind when you’re buying prom jewelry: Unlike your prom dress or dyed shoes, jewelry is something you will wear throughout your life and maybe even pass down to a daughter or granddaughter. So if you splurge a bit on, say, a classic piece such as a white pearl necklace, don’t worry, you will definitely have countless opportunities to wear it throughout your life. Don’t overspend on trendy pieces, though. They’re not worth the investment. A big faux emerald cocktail ring probably won’t be in fashion forever, but good quality classic pearl pendant or pair of diamond studs will stand the test of time.

By: Amy Drescher

Labels: Prom jewelry

The secret to dressing successfully for the prom lies on the use of accessories. Wearing appropriate prom accessories can modify average outfits into fantastic outfits. However, every person has different tastes and preferences.

There are several accessories which can make you shine during the occasion. Prom night is one of the most important, memorable, and special night for many students in high school. Women can show off their beautiful dresses and men are dressed up as gorgeous gentlemen. It is necessary that parents and teens know a little about fashion to make the event extra glamorous.

The preparation never ends with finding the perfect prom dress. Adding a few prom accessories can make a big difference, not just on the personality of the wearer but also in styling preferences. Wear accessories that can make your looks eye-catching and splendidly beautiful regardless of your style.

Selecting accessories for your prom must be done carefully. You can either make or break a perfect look that you want for the occasion. Among the common accessories used in the prom includes the prom handbag or purse, shawl, gloves, slips, prom jewelries, prom shoes, garment bags, hair accessories, body glitter, nail polish, tattoo, underwear and bras, and others.

Prom Handbag or Purse

Choose a purse which is simply large enough to carry your lipstick, extra pair of panty hose, powder, money, a camera, and a few safety pins. Avoid carrying a big purse or handbag. This accessory should be compatible with your prom shoe and dress. If you look and feel great in blue accessories then choose a blue purse or handbag matched with blue jewelries and other accessories.

Prom shawl

This can be used to hide your shoulders especially if your dress is revealing. This simple clothing piece is loosely worn on the arms, upper body, shoulders, and even on the head. Normally, it has a rectangular shape folded in a triangle form. Women wear it for several reasons such as keeping them warm when the venue gets cold, complement their dress, or for symbolic functions. Never wear a jacket. A prom shawl can provide additional fashion and warmth during the occasion.

Prom Jewelries

These prom accessories can make the prom night really special provided that you have your shoes, dress, and a purse or handbag. Select jewelries that are playful and fun. Your prom night attire is incomplete without these eye popping, cool necklaces, bracelets, toe rings, earrings, and other jewelries. It can make you shine especially if it matches your dress perfectly.

Prom shoes

Search for the perfect footwear or shoe to match your dress. The task is not difficult as long as you know several fashion tricks. The most significant factor when choosing your prom shoes is comfort. Amazing shoes do not make any sense if it will cause you pain. High-heeled shoes are ideal for this event. Your legs may appear longer and slimmer and allows you to maintain a good posture.

Never forget to begin early. Make plans ahead of time. This is the best way of finding the right prom accessories which complement each other well. Ensure that the best points are highlighted to stand out from the rest during the prom night. Give weight to some of your favorite parts when choosing prom accessories. Find styles which make flaunts your best points. HoweverComputer Technology Articles, elegance and simplicity must be maintained.

Labels: Prom accessories

Whatever the usual excuses you use to get out of attending parties, they won't work for the party season, after all you've had twelve months notice.

Rather than looking for excuses to get out of it let us show you how to look great this party season.

It really is simpler than you think, just follow our simple tips on how to look great this party season you'll be happy you made the effort.

How to Look Great this Party Season - What Not to Wear.

When it comes to the party season, how to look great can be difficult for a number of reasons, not least the sudden deluge in invites. There is the office party, the family party and socialising with friends.

This could mean anything upwards of three outfits.

Do you opt for one outfit with different accessories hoping you won't bump into the same people at different events, or do you buy a different outfit for each party?

The biggest mistake most women make is to choose a style that is blatantly not for them.

Just because a dress is in the store does not mean it's for you.

How to Look Great this Party Season - Things to Remember

Whether choosing clothes so you can look great for the party season, or choosing outfits for any other time of the year, looking great means choosing an outfit that suits you and reflects your sense of style.

It is possible to be fashionable without being a slave to fashion, just remember these golden rules.

* If you want to look great this party season, remember - less is more. Less make up, less jewellery, less everything. Don't be tempted to wear blue eye shadow with that red party dress just because you've worn it everyday for the last twenty years.

Choose a theme and stick to it, if your favourite piece of jewellery doesn't compliment your chosen outfit, don't wear it.

* Make sure the outfit you select suits the occasion.

* When selecting a party outfit, make sure you feel comfortable in it.

If you feel uncomfortable in front of your dressing mirror and keep hiking the bust line up or the hem line down, well - draw your own conclusions!

* Make an effort even if you think no one expects you to.

How to Look Great this Party Season - Choosing the Right Outfit

While there is no denying the visual impact of the little black dress, why not be bold this party season and go for something different.

Red is a very popular choice for Christmas and guaranteed to make you stand out in the crowd.

If you're not ready to be quite so bold, then gold is a rich sumptuous alternative, ideal for creating that sophisticated look.

If you do have to wear the same outfit more than once, you can change the look by choosing different shoes, handbag and accessories to compliment. Throwing a contrasting coloured shawl over your shoulders is also an excellent way to change the look of your outfit.

Don't forget your lingerie. Nothing lets down a stunning outfit more than ill fitting linger. It's Christmas, so if necessary, splash out.

Take extra care with your hair and make up, now might be a good time to try out that hair style you've been thinking about. And if you're already at the salon, why not pick up some tips on applying your makeup.

How to Look Great this Party Season - Outerwear

So you've got the fabulous outfit. Don't spoil it by covering it in that old coat you've had for years.

When you enter a room with your outdoor wear, this is where you make your first impression. What is that coat going to say about you?

Make an effort with every layer, from your coat, to your dress, right down to your lingerie. Make sure your partner knows you look as good out of your dress as you do in it!

by sacha tarkovsky

Labels: fashion party, fashion trend party, party casual fashion

You need to look your best at all times - We live in an image conscious society and dressing correctly at the office will help you succeed in getting the job or promotion you want or that important business deal you need.

It is easy to do, so here are your tips for formal dressing which will help you succeed.

Here we will look at some basics and in part two some specific looks you can use that work well for all formal environments.

Getting dressed for the office doesn't mean you can't be fashionable, you can, but you need to develop a personalized style that fits you and the office environment.

Your aim is to project a professional, dynamic appearance that indicates you are good at what you do - You mean business and you know how to get what you want and you radiate confidence in your ability.

Quite simply the style, colors and fit of your clothes will reflect in the way other people view your ability to do the job.

1. Fit

Trousers need to be fitted and there should be no visible panty lines.

Skirts, especially straight styles like pencil skirts, should be loose enough to sit down and move around in comfortably and not to tight.

Clothes need to fit so be aware of your size and don't try and squeeze into smaller sizes.

Jackets should to be able to buttoned comfortably and blouses shouldn't have gaps or bulges between buttonholes.

2. Traditional career colors include:

Navy - Which indicates trust

Grey - Which indicates a conservative image

Black - Which is both chic and conservative

Note:

The above are all safe colors for women's formal wear and have wide appeal.

Be wary of wearing red especially if you are in sales and marketing as it can be seen as confrontational especially by other women.

The three colors above all work well in trousers, skirts and shoes.

You can mix black with softer colors such as:

Light blue, lilac, orange, lemon, and stone.

Loud colors like bright pink and wild prints can be a bit much for many people so be careful with these.

3. Jewelry

You should avoid at all costs: Jewellery that jangles (hoop earrings and stacks of bangles)

Wear only small amounts of jewellery that compliment your look and don't lead it.

Examples would be: Stud earrings or single bracelets and a nice watch.

4. Handbags

Slouchy handbags look unprofessional, sloppy and don't match a sleek look.

Instead choose structured styles with sharp lines to indicate a dynamic organized individual

Everything about you needs to project professionalism and efficiency.

Manicured nails, run-free hose, clean shoes and neat well styled hair.

Make sure you take care of everything right down to the smallest detail.

AVOID AT ALL COSTS!

6. Sexy clothes

Avoid See through garments, miniskirts, really high stilettos, plunging necklines flashy designer labels and to much leather.

If you try and radiate sex appeal to obviously people will think you are trying to rely on it rather than your business skills and it is one of the biggest mistakes you can make.

7. Clothes should fit correctly

Avoid at all costs wrinkled clothes, too many layers and baggy-fit clothing.

Dressing for the office is all about striking a balance between style and looking competent, organized and efficient.

In part 2 we will look at some great clothes and color combinations but for now:

Follow the above tips and get ready to get that interview, close that deal or seal that promotion.

by sacha tarkovsky

Labels: black formal dresses, dresses formal, formal dress, formal dresses, green formal dresses