Have you ever been in a situation where someone was wearing something so outlandish it caught you totally off guard? Then they catch you staring with shock and disbelief and you are forced to say something. Typically, you are so chicken shit in that moment that you end up saying something horribly ridiculous. I complimented crazy!
So something recent reminded me of this, but instead of outing the new culprit I'll take it back to the biggest situation! I had a co-worker once who was a fashion disaster! She was mismatched, too little, too short, too tight, out of style, too young, too old, and haphazard. Now there was this one day that she came to work with too tight pants with a tattered hem and a too little shirt with buttons that pulled across her chest. The clothes were wrinkled, of course. Then there were the jelly platform shoes! I was used to the outfits, but the shoes?! I stared at her shoes like a deer caught in headlights. I was looking back and forth between her shoes and her face hoping that soon she would yell, "Gotcha!" She didn't. She looked back, and I froze. I stuttered out hello, and before I knew it I said, "cute shoes." I said it kind of dry, but it must have been convincing because she smiled and thanked me. Huh?! I mean, I love jellies. I own a pair of designer jelly flats. I never wear them, but I think it's fun that I have them. I would never wear them to work though. I would never wear them any further than my closet. I'm too old for that trend, and she's my age.
It happened again, and it will probably keep happening forever. I will probably keep being chicken shit and laughing hysterically later. DAMMIT! Actually, I'm just gonna pray that the right people read my words and follow some of them. I don't know everything, and I'm sure I live even less than that. But, what I know, I know, I know!
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Birds
I love birds. They've never saved me from a burning building or anything, but still I have a slight obsession. Actually, I love what I think birds represent. Or, maybe I should say I love what birds represent to me. That's the freedom and limitlessness. I love birds because of that, and that's driving my work. I guess for me it's like picking a color story, it's my hot trend. Maybe it's my muse. Maybe it's my outlet.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Does these two pieces go together?
Okay so I had a few clothing options, in my mind, that were never to be matched up.
So today it was pleasantly chill this morning. It was perfect navy blue canvas pea coat weather. BUT, I was wearing black jersey pants. Can I really give up my scare of the sailor look and pair navy with any other basic? I mean I typically only do navy with a print because of the scar from numerous pictures of myself in a sailor dress. So today, because of lack of time and desire to fix my potential problem, I left my house in black jersey pants and a navy blue pea coat. WOWZA! It looked fab-u-lous! I love navy and black. My neat, casual, outfit had a flare of the classics. It is definitely a look I will tweak. These colors will carry me clean through fall and winter.
Now the bad side. I find that most of my fashion fears are situations brought on by past disasters. I am afraid of EVER pairing black and brown. I NEVER plan to pair those two colors. EWWW! I worked at Gadzooks one hundred years ago and a member of management came to work in black, faded, tapered pants and a brown, faded, short sleeve shirt with a velour trim. I cringe thinking back on it. Literally, I just cringed.
The navy and black was a little girl's nightmare reclaimed in a positive way, but the other will always be lost in translation. That would make me sad if I hadn't seen it with my own two eyes.
So today it was pleasantly chill this morning. It was perfect navy blue canvas pea coat weather. BUT, I was wearing black jersey pants. Can I really give up my scare of the sailor look and pair navy with any other basic? I mean I typically only do navy with a print because of the scar from numerous pictures of myself in a sailor dress. So today, because of lack of time and desire to fix my potential problem, I left my house in black jersey pants and a navy blue pea coat. WOWZA! It looked fab-u-lous! I love navy and black. My neat, casual, outfit had a flare of the classics. It is definitely a look I will tweak. These colors will carry me clean through fall and winter.
Now the bad side. I find that most of my fashion fears are situations brought on by past disasters. I am afraid of EVER pairing black and brown. I NEVER plan to pair those two colors. EWWW! I worked at Gadzooks one hundred years ago and a member of management came to work in black, faded, tapered pants and a brown, faded, short sleeve shirt with a velour trim. I cringe thinking back on it. Literally, I just cringed.
The navy and black was a little girl's nightmare reclaimed in a positive way, but the other will always be lost in translation. That would make me sad if I hadn't seen it with my own two eyes.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
What's appropriate?
In my personal life edgy, comfortable, and flattering drive my style. That's true in my business too. But very little of my time is personal, and my business, currently, requires more behind the scenes time than anything. So I have to tweak my wardrobe for the 85% of my life governed by other's perception of appropriate.
WORK
I work for an amazing organization that reluctantly accepts some of my individuality. The tattoos and piercings are a lot much, but over looked. I can't afford to push it too much further. So, I defined business causal for me.
Now I am addicted to cotton solids, patterned tunics, flirty dresses, boot cut pants in general, and a jacket with personality. I also love a great t-shirt. So what's my business casual exactly? It's literally changing out part of the suit. If you would wear a suit and a button up shirt, lose the jacket and button front shirt and go for that patterned tunic instead. You could even keep the top half and slip into a pair of khaki pants, if khakis are your thing. AND if you didn't know, you can lose the pantyhose, forever and always! BUT, no thong sandals no matter how cute. Denim only if pre-approved, and this includes the jackets. However, denim is almost always an absolute NO!
Now I push these rules, but never too much. I'm already on the edge. Today, for example, I'm wearing a beige cotton t-shirt with butterflies and flowers, not typically my thing, brown boot cut trousers, a purple scarf, and bronze metallic flats. I agree I'm on the cusp of inappropriate even though my t-shirt is super feminine it's still a t-shirt. But my office is business causal forgiving and here it's totally appropriate.
DATE NIGHT
So I'm dating again, this is a big deal. I have a cute, athletic, prospect who's often in jeans or cargo pants and a polo type shirt. He thinks I'm FINE in whatever, but I want him to appreciate the ultra feminine side of me too. So even though I dress to impress with numerous flirty blouses, flattering boot cut jeans, and amazing wedges, I still throw around some beautiful dresses and fabulous heels to keep it all interesting. And my jewels, do you really have to ask? They are absolute perfection, of course!
I mean date night is the time to let your entire personality out. Chance it even, with over the top accessories and make up, and exciting fashion pieces. Just remember comfort, confidence, and CLASS! Make sure pushing the envelope doesn't push it over.
GYM
First the gym probably isn't in your home. So, dress like you're in public. Lycra and Spandex may be goal not yet obtained, and old and tattered don't equal gym clothes. Most of us pay a small fortune a month to workout at our neighborhood gym. Fashionably speaking, respect that! You don't have to wear a matching track suit, but clean and neat are essential.
I wear yoga pants, a slightly, emphasis on slightly, larger t-shirt than I hang out in, and a really amazing pair of New Balance sneakers. I feel comfortable. Still, there's another t-shirt on standby if I have anything to do afterwards, or a jacket if necessary. I also believe in being prepared.
RELIGIOUS SERVICES
Think wisely. When you are in a place of service be respectful. Don't lose yourself in clothes so conservative you aren't comfortable, but remember where you are! God doesn't care how fashionably creative you were that Sunday. He's focused on your heart, your love, your respect for Him, and your admiration. Remember that!
Remember to be your normal glam to death self lunching with friends, shopping, dinner with your man, running errands, etc. But when appropriateness is make or break, because it almost always is, make it!
WORK
I work for an amazing organization that reluctantly accepts some of my individuality. The tattoos and piercings are a lot much, but over looked. I can't afford to push it too much further. So, I defined business causal for me.
Now I am addicted to cotton solids, patterned tunics, flirty dresses, boot cut pants in general, and a jacket with personality. I also love a great t-shirt. So what's my business casual exactly? It's literally changing out part of the suit. If you would wear a suit and a button up shirt, lose the jacket and button front shirt and go for that patterned tunic instead. You could even keep the top half and slip into a pair of khaki pants, if khakis are your thing. AND if you didn't know, you can lose the pantyhose, forever and always! BUT, no thong sandals no matter how cute. Denim only if pre-approved, and this includes the jackets. However, denim is almost always an absolute NO!
Now I push these rules, but never too much. I'm already on the edge. Today, for example, I'm wearing a beige cotton t-shirt with butterflies and flowers, not typically my thing, brown boot cut trousers, a purple scarf, and bronze metallic flats. I agree I'm on the cusp of inappropriate even though my t-shirt is super feminine it's still a t-shirt. But my office is business causal forgiving and here it's totally appropriate.
DATE NIGHT
So I'm dating again, this is a big deal. I have a cute, athletic, prospect who's often in jeans or cargo pants and a polo type shirt. He thinks I'm FINE in whatever, but I want him to appreciate the ultra feminine side of me too. So even though I dress to impress with numerous flirty blouses, flattering boot cut jeans, and amazing wedges, I still throw around some beautiful dresses and fabulous heels to keep it all interesting. And my jewels, do you really have to ask? They are absolute perfection, of course!
I mean date night is the time to let your entire personality out. Chance it even, with over the top accessories and make up, and exciting fashion pieces. Just remember comfort, confidence, and CLASS! Make sure pushing the envelope doesn't push it over.
GYM
First the gym probably isn't in your home. So, dress like you're in public. Lycra and Spandex may be goal not yet obtained, and old and tattered don't equal gym clothes. Most of us pay a small fortune a month to workout at our neighborhood gym. Fashionably speaking, respect that! You don't have to wear a matching track suit, but clean and neat are essential.
I wear yoga pants, a slightly, emphasis on slightly, larger t-shirt than I hang out in, and a really amazing pair of New Balance sneakers. I feel comfortable. Still, there's another t-shirt on standby if I have anything to do afterwards, or a jacket if necessary. I also believe in being prepared.
RELIGIOUS SERVICES
Think wisely. When you are in a place of service be respectful. Don't lose yourself in clothes so conservative you aren't comfortable, but remember where you are! God doesn't care how fashionably creative you were that Sunday. He's focused on your heart, your love, your respect for Him, and your admiration. Remember that!
Remember to be your normal glam to death self lunching with friends, shopping, dinner with your man, running errands, etc. But when appropriateness is make or break, because it almost always is, make it!
Monday, October 12, 2009
Weight
Yes, it's true that sometimes you can change your fashion by changing your weight or toning up. Sometimes it doesn't matter though. Some things may never work.
Let's be positive. This is about a 2 piece v. a 1 piece, leggings, and hemlines. All things that are typically weight and figure issues. How to be comfortable in new clothing options, become healthier, and be even more glam to death are worth focusing some attention on.
I got some information from MSN, how the thin got thin, stay thin, or something. These steps are key. They are slightly revamped though, because I am so opinionated!
1. Do NOT diet - Duh! You should never give a permanent problem a temporary fix. Change habits and behaviors to change your life.
2. Keep track of your weight - Now, I weigh myself compulsively. Don't become obsessed though. I'm avidly trying to lose weight so this works for me, but I'm not advocating obsession. Just know your current number. This way you know if your number changes, good or bad.
3. Exercise - Absolutely! The gym can be a stretch, or intimidating, at times. Get creative. Sometimes instead of the elliptical or treadmill I take a walk, play Wii, clean up around the house, or play games with my son. The key is getting, and staying, active for at least 20 minutes daily.
4. Food isn't therapy - Never use food as a therapeutic tool. Food is food. It's not a psychiatrist. Find new ways to satisfy boredom, anger, loneliness, etc. Again be creative, write a blog, sing, dance, read, exercise, learn a new craft or hobby, do anything but eat!
5. When you're full...STOP - We've heard this one a few times as well. I read the entire menu twice before deciding what to order. Then I alter it completely until it's perfect. I'm anxious until it arrives. I savour every bite, but I stop around half. I package it up for later. I'll get to enjoy it again. Yay! I mean after the chips and salsa, bread, or whatever, do you REALLY have room to finish off an entire meal? Also, I eat kind of early in the day. I can't be miserable through every other activity of my day. Plus, and this is important, gluttony isn't attractive. People take notice to how much you eat. They shouldn't, but they do. If you bypass healthy appetite and venture into pig they get grossed out. I do at least.
6. Don't be tempted - Willpower does not exist. Don't bring bad stuff into your life expecting to be okay. You will fail! If (insert your food of choice) are a weakness, don't buy them and torture yourself. Out of sight really is out of mind.
7. Treats - Never, for any reason, deprive yourself. That's a life lesson! Be mindful of what you eat, how much and why, but don't deprive yourself. Reward yourself and give in to cravings, but be reasonable!
8. Always have breakfast - I changed eat to have. I'm not a big breakfast person. I don't feel like eating for a few, or more, hours after I wake up. I don't mind a smoothie though. A mix of fruit and yogurt. Sometimes I even add a little oatmeal, granola, or chocolate on top. I also like fruit with cheese cubes or peanut butter on whole wheat toast. If traditional breakfast items aren't your thing either, again I say, get creative.
9. Move - Get active! Walking up the stairs can be a lot, but walking down only isn't so bad. Turning the TV off and the radio on can motivate you to dance. Park a little further back, say no to the drive thru and go inside, look for projects to do around the house left unfinished, and stand more. Standing pushes you to do something with yourself, while sitting only encourages sitting.
10. Don't skip meals - If you are hungry...EAT! Don't deprive yourself, AT ALL!!! And, skipped meals screw up your metabolism.
It's that easy! Don't just do it for skinny jeans, a new dress, or swim wear. Get healthy! Remember confidence may be internal, but it has an amazing influence on your outward appearance. A healthy you is strong, happy, and confident. That's absolutely glam to death.
Let's be positive. This is about a 2 piece v. a 1 piece, leggings, and hemlines. All things that are typically weight and figure issues. How to be comfortable in new clothing options, become healthier, and be even more glam to death are worth focusing some attention on.
I got some information from MSN, how the thin got thin, stay thin, or something. These steps are key. They are slightly revamped though, because I am so opinionated!
1. Do NOT diet - Duh! You should never give a permanent problem a temporary fix. Change habits and behaviors to change your life.
2. Keep track of your weight - Now, I weigh myself compulsively. Don't become obsessed though. I'm avidly trying to lose weight so this works for me, but I'm not advocating obsession. Just know your current number. This way you know if your number changes, good or bad.
3. Exercise - Absolutely! The gym can be a stretch, or intimidating, at times. Get creative. Sometimes instead of the elliptical or treadmill I take a walk, play Wii, clean up around the house, or play games with my son. The key is getting, and staying, active for at least 20 minutes daily.
4. Food isn't therapy - Never use food as a therapeutic tool. Food is food. It's not a psychiatrist. Find new ways to satisfy boredom, anger, loneliness, etc. Again be creative, write a blog, sing, dance, read, exercise, learn a new craft or hobby, do anything but eat!
5. When you're full...STOP - We've heard this one a few times as well. I read the entire menu twice before deciding what to order. Then I alter it completely until it's perfect. I'm anxious until it arrives. I savour every bite, but I stop around half. I package it up for later. I'll get to enjoy it again. Yay! I mean after the chips and salsa, bread, or whatever, do you REALLY have room to finish off an entire meal? Also, I eat kind of early in the day. I can't be miserable through every other activity of my day. Plus, and this is important, gluttony isn't attractive. People take notice to how much you eat. They shouldn't, but they do. If you bypass healthy appetite and venture into pig they get grossed out. I do at least.
6. Don't be tempted - Willpower does not exist. Don't bring bad stuff into your life expecting to be okay. You will fail! If (insert your food of choice) are a weakness, don't buy them and torture yourself. Out of sight really is out of mind.
7. Treats - Never, for any reason, deprive yourself. That's a life lesson! Be mindful of what you eat, how much and why, but don't deprive yourself. Reward yourself and give in to cravings, but be reasonable!
8. Always have breakfast - I changed eat to have. I'm not a big breakfast person. I don't feel like eating for a few, or more, hours after I wake up. I don't mind a smoothie though. A mix of fruit and yogurt. Sometimes I even add a little oatmeal, granola, or chocolate on top. I also like fruit with cheese cubes or peanut butter on whole wheat toast. If traditional breakfast items aren't your thing either, again I say, get creative.
9. Move - Get active! Walking up the stairs can be a lot, but walking down only isn't so bad. Turning the TV off and the radio on can motivate you to dance. Park a little further back, say no to the drive thru and go inside, look for projects to do around the house left unfinished, and stand more. Standing pushes you to do something with yourself, while sitting only encourages sitting.
10. Don't skip meals - If you are hungry...EAT! Don't deprive yourself, AT ALL!!! And, skipped meals screw up your metabolism.
It's that easy! Don't just do it for skinny jeans, a new dress, or swim wear. Get healthy! Remember confidence may be internal, but it has an amazing influence on your outward appearance. A healthy you is strong, happy, and confident. That's absolutely glam to death.
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