by Shai Thompson –
January’s Style Tip: It’s the new dawn of a new year and with that comes the opportunity for change. Every rack in retail is rocking killer sales so get out there and invest in your fall winter wardrobe for next year. This will save you buckets of cash! With the money you save, take a chance on trying a new style you have favoured on others.
Q: I have wide calves and have a hard time finding boots to fit. Suggestions?
I think having a killer cobbler is key when working with leather. The seam can be opened and stretch fabric can be placed to extend the width for fit and comfort. When you order online and the boot says wide calf, make sure you have the true measurements. Most only go up to 16 to 17 inches and if your calf is 17½ it will not fit. For the athletic calf, the rubber boot is most likely a no-go unless you wear an ankle rubber boot. Remember: with or without boots you will always have soul.
Q: What’s the proper etiquette when you receive a gift that is just “not you?”
I spend a lot of time organizing closets and keep coming across “undesired” gifts. We all I know what I mean … that gift from the mother-in law that just isn’t you. Don’t fret: there are many options available to get something you want and make sure no feelings are hurt in the process. Selling your unwanted gifts via consignment, clothing swaps, VarageSale, Craigslist and UsedVictoria are all great options to grab some cash or a different item to round out your closet!
Q: I see belts on others and love them, but can’t seem to make them work for me. What should I know when buying a belt?
I love belts as they add dimension to all figure shapes. When buying a belt to fit your pant loops, buy two to three sizes larger than your pant size. A belt worn outside of the loops can go over anything from a sweater to your outerwear. A low-slung belt gives a casual visual and layering more than one belt is super vintage ’80s and fun. If you want to create a strong feminine hourglass shape, wear a cinched belt at your true waist. When wearing a large belt with embellishments, stay away from bold necklaces as this will look over done.
Q: How do I get my husband to dress better?
My favourite solution is to raise your own style bar. Be the example and rock your frocks girl! People will be giving you the compliments and he will be receiving comments like: “Your wife looks amazing.” If he lives in shorts and a T-shirt, getting him into pants and a shirt might be a stretch. Offer a reward. They say that a suit to a woman has the same effect as lingerie does for men.
Q: How do I find my best fit in anything? I’m a size 12.
Sizes vary from one designer to the next. If I had a dollar for every time someone expressed frustration with size, I’d be living in Manolos. Every brand has a way of sizing their product and our job as consumers is to understand and find the brands that work best for your style, body type and budget. There is a sizing technique called vanity sizing. When you try on an item that fits and says it’s a size eight (when you are a true size 12), it’s simply playing on your ego. Reality check, my beauties: it’s just a number. Fit is key, not the size on the label. So try sizes on both sides of your “suggested size:” go up one size and down one size. Then decide what your best fit is.
