Reader Q&A: What Should I Wear on a Date?

Reader Q&A: What Should I Wear on a Date? 

Thanks to Molly for sending in a question about ideas for a date for plus sized figures. I loved answering this question because there are so many gorgeous options out there! Molly described not finding anything that felt special, but I think i've found some great choices!

Embrace Color. I find that many of my clients of all sizes tend to shy away from color on a date, but I really recommend that you consider wearing a bold color, especially if you wear plus sizes. Why? You've got the curves and shape to really make an impact, and a date is the perfect place to show them off! Plus, a bold color is confident and happy, which are two things I'd love to see walk through the door on a date, wouldn't you?

Via

And say yes to bringing flowers to your date, too! 

Via

Dress for the Occasion. In your search for something special, don't lose sight of the fact that not all dates are created equal. Your first stop in picking out what to wear doesn't need to be

---

Your dresses; in fact, a dress might be an awkward choice if you're having an active date. Or, if you're just not into dresses, don't force yourself to wear one! Show up like yourself. You'll never go wrong. 

Via

I like how she's showing off her gorgeous legs and neck like a dress would, but she's able to be active in the capris and flats. She could take off the jacket if it warms up but also be covered up if she doesn't want to get too much sun or gets cold in a restaurant in the evening. 

Be Cheeky. On the other hand, if you love wearing dresses or have a new one you really want to wear, do it! Just because you're going to a baseball game or something doesn't meant you need to force yourself to wear shorts or pants. I think it's fun to wear something special (like this dress) with something that nods to the date event (like the cap in the image below!)

Via

Or, keeping with the sporty theme, what about this top with a skirt or under overalls?

Via

Wear a Bold Pattern. When I lived in New York City, my dad would often take me out to eat on Thursday nights. We called it "Match.Com Night" because almost every other table was occupied by a pair who had clearly just met each other. These days it could be "Tinder Night." Every single person, to the person, wore black. Here in DC it could be beige or navy. Don't fall into that trap. Even if it's a Thursday night and you're coming to the date right from work, bring something patterned and put it on in the bathroom. Even if it's black and white like this gorgeous tribal print! 

Via

Why? A pattern stands out from the crowd and is memorable. Even in a group setting where you might meet a possible romantic interest, don't we all say "Remember the one in the striped shirt?"

Via

Channel Your Inner Superheroine. There's something very empowering about dressing up like a superhero, don't you think? A date night (or just a night out) is the perfect time to bring out your inner Wonder Woman. Wearing something that feels a bit like armor might give your heart the chance to soften up. It's like reverse psychology clothing! 

Via

The tube top above can be tricky since it requires a strapless bra, but why not try it with a tank top under and have the straps show? Or wear it under a blazer with a regular bra. Or do it up with a corset...which brings me to underwear! The same super heroine trick goes for what you wear underneath! It can help you feel confident even if no one but you sees it--but especially if they do! Oh wow! They actually have Wonder Woman undies, too! 

Sorry. I got distracted. 

Thanks again, Molly! Thanks for writing!

Reader Question: Where Can I Find Great Boots for Wide Calves?

Reader Question: Where Can I Find Great Boots for Wide Calves?

When I posted about boots for narrow calves, Kate commented to ask me about boots for wider calves. I'm so glad that you did, Kate, because I have done some searching in the past for personal shopping clients, but I hadn't posted anything about it here! Thank you!

 

Here are some of my favorite sources for where to find boots that will fit stronger, wider calves than the average boot. First, where to go and how to find them. 

 

Naturalizer

 Nordstrom is where I always start looking for shoes or boots of any kind because they have stylish choices that are neither too trendy nor too old-fashioned. Search by "wide calf." I sometimes look at Nordstrom and then look to find a cheaper alternative if I'm not 100% sure on the choice. Next I'd go to Zappos to see what they have. Both places offer free shipping both ways so it's kind of like shopping at home. Search for "wide calf" on Zappos, too. I don't recommend going super cheap if you're looking for a wide calf boot since you want quality and something that will last. Remember, if you wear a $50 boot for one season it's not cheaper than wearing a $200 boot for 8 years.

You can do the same for Macy's and DSW. Now is a perfect time to buy boots because there are so many winter sales going on. I also strongly recommend that you make a mental note to shop for boots for next fall/winter this spring because once the weather gets warm, they'll go on deep sale. 

My Choices for Tall Wide Calf Boots

Ok so I love this boot by Naturalizer, thiscustomer favorite in black, this expensive looking little

brown by Fitzwell, a brand that I love, this sassy little number also from Naturalizer, this gorgeous one by Born, I love the details on this Naturalizer, and there's nothing better than a great wedge boot! If you're looking to invest in a boot that will last, try this Frye boot that actually got high marks in comfort, which can sometimes be an issue for that brand. This is a great basic that will be in style for forever, and don't forget a Hunter boot, too.

 

For what they're calling an "extra wide calf," what about this classic riding style boot?

Mid Height Boots I Love

Sole Society

You might also consider boots that don't hit the calf at all. Mid height boots are very modern and a bit more trendy than knee height boots. Here are a few of my favorites in this style.Sole Society has the most gorgeous shoes, and this boot is no exception. If you like the look of that one, do check out the rest of their boots because they're gorgeous. If you need a bit more warmth, but not too much since you're in New Orleans, Kate!, then what about these beauties by Sorel?

Don't Forget Short boots!

Short boots, or booties, are here to stay and worth an investment. I find them to be farm more comfortable to wear under pants, and I absolutely wear them with skirts, too. I like to wear tights with booties, though, since I think they can cut off your ankles if you don't link the feet to the legs.

Anthropologie

 
Try these gorgeous boots from Sundance or these really cool ones that look very fresh, or these
incredible mocs! If you want some height instead, my goodness are these ever gorgeous! These Clarks are a great basic wedge that you could wear with everything. And on a more funky note, I'm in love with the Tom desert wedge high booties in every color, including the metallics. They would transition well into spring, too!

So that's it! I hope you guys found some fun boots if you're looking. Comment away if you have other questions I can answer for you!

Thoughtful Gifts for People You Don't Know Very Well

Thoughtful Gifts for People You Don't Know Very Well

I don't usually post on the weekends, but I know that time is running out if you're going to order anything for gifts, and some of today's suggestions need to be ordered. My friend Erika asked me a great question the other day: what do I give to people who I don't know particularly well?

I'm thinking of your husband's Aunt who will be at your mom's house to open gifts or your Uncle's girlfriend who is coming over with him between Christmas and New Year's or your partner's co-worker and her wife who invite you over for Christmas because you're not traveling to see family this year.You want to give something thoughtful and special, but you might have limited information on this person. Here are my ideas.

What about something delicious to eat, like the Maple Matured Sherry Bourbon Oak Vinegar above? It's from Salt & Sundry in DC, and if you buy anything from there (yes, they ship!), you'll look like you're on the cutting edge of what's cool in home decor and yummy in food even if you're not. These ideas would be perfect for a twenty-something cousin or relative, too. Also for the crowd who loves American made.

Or how about food from the recipient's home town or recently visited location? Maybe find out a little bit about them, and then send or bring them something related! For example, cupcakes from the famous Magnolia Bakery for a New Yorker (or just someone who visited there recently) or Valerie's incredible handmade chocolates and candy from L.A. If you've got a bit more time, consider looking at their region's Edible magazine to find good local options.

What about a special balm or lotion? I think something like the Minty Muscle Balm or set of incredible smelling men's soaps would be perfect since they're not sensual like a massage oil but are still thoughtful and will be appreciated. You may not have time for Etsy shipping so check out your local natural foods store-or even Amazon.

I also love the idea of a luxurious little set of something that most people would never buy for themselves like these little linen lavender bags. Sometimes in TJMaxx, Marshalls, Home Goods, you can find similar items, too.

And lastly? When in doubt, buy a cookbook. Bon Appetite has their favorite list out, and I think anyone would love to have one or two of these under their tree!

Can I Wear a Bold Necklace to Work?

Can I Wear a Bold Necklace to Work?

I recently got this question from a reader named Judy. Yes! And here's how. My personal styling client, Simmi, had a gorgeous collection of statement necklaces, and I loved putting together outfits for her that incorporated them.

Wear all neutrals. If you have a bold, neutral (metallic, white, black, etc.) necklace, consider wearing all neutrals in the rest of your outfit, too. It can help tone down a real statement piece and bring it into a peaceful, work-appropriate outfit. This could work just as well with jeans, too!

Embrace bright colors. On the flip side, if you have a really colorful necklace, a simple way to wear it is with other brights. This is clearly a summer outfit, but the same thing would apply now in the winter. Pick a color or print for the bottom of your outfit that relates to or could be friends with the colors in the necklace. Then, add a contrasting bright color in between. The blue helps to break up the necklace and the skirt. When I look at this summer version of the outfit, I imagine it with a wooly patterned skirt, tights, and a soft, cozy, bright sweater and boots for right now.

This is the same idea but with a neutral between the necklace and the bright bottoms. If I were working with Simmi today, I'd put a motorcycle boot in place of sandals and a black blazer on top and send her on her merry way. And, of course, if you prefer a more demure look, you can put a tank under a drapey neck.

I also want to throw out there that this time of year I really think about scarves more than necklaces. Sure, I wear necklaces, often under my scarf, but a bright or neutral scarf can become the inspiration for a great work (or play!) outfit. Some of my favorite places for scarves include Etsy, Nordsrom, and, surprisingly, maternity stores. If you can bring yourself to walk into one, they often sell great scarves to help pregnant women feel stylish. But no reason they need to have all the fun!

Great question, Judy! Thanks for the email!

Fall Boots-an Update!

Fall Boots-an Update!

Remember Rose's question about fall boots? Well, she got some and was sweet enough to send me a picture and an email! And they're adorable. Here's Rose!

I finally got boots! And I am wishing I could show them off to you in person. They are so beautiful (also I have the fleece lined timberland's you recommended from last season for weather). Thanks thanks thanks for advice. The thing that's really great about these is that unlike the last pair of Fryes I bought (seven years ago probably) they have rubber treading on the soles so they aren't super slippery. And they seem like they'd be narrow, but really they aren't! Anyhow, I am feeling great about them with pants and dresses alike.

I'm so glad, Rose! And good to know about Frye-I've been considering some, too, but worried because they always seem so narrow.

If you have a question you'd like answered, please contact me.

Reader Q&A: What Should I Look for in a Plus Size Swim Suit?

Reader Q&A: What Should I Look for in a Plus Size Swim Suit?

You may have read on Friday that recently a friend asked me about finding a great plus size swim suit. We talked about her desire to feel layered up and covered but also wanting to include her personality in her swimsuit. She had a few specific questions for me, too:

What is most flattering around the belly?
What's the deal with wearing a skirt?

What are some fun/flattering ways to cover up?

Do I have to wear a pattern?

These are great questions that I think women of all shapes and sizes share! I've got some ideas for all shapes and sizes here, and if you want to see more, I pinned more than I could post on my StartCloseIn board.

Around the Belly: Don't Shy Away from Separates

I understand the desire to not always show off your stomach at the beach, but that doesn't mean you have to wear a skimpy bikini or else be covered head-to-toe. There are lots of good choices in the middle.

For example, I really like the trend of wearing a swim shirt (ok, ok, a "rash guard," but that just sounds like something you'd need to see a doctor for) because it is so protective of your skin while you're out in the sun. But they've come a long way since my dad tried to make us wear wetsuits! You know I love stripes by now, and this swim shirt by Land's End is no exception! It looks like it wouldn't be too tight around the mid-section, either.

If you're ok showing off your middle and are looking for more va-va-voom, a lot of stores have beautiful separates with vintage cuts that are very flattering for curvy shapes. If you're not completely sure and just want to test out the look, try somewhere cheaper, like Forever21, and look for pieces like this gorgeous halter top in multiple bright colors.

Reader Question: Where Can I Find Great Plus Size Beach Cover Ups?

Plus Size Beach Cover Ups and Extras

I recently had a friend ask about where to find cute beach cover ups in plus sizes. She also asked about swimsuits, and I'll be posting about that on Monday so tune back in for tips for women of all sizes!

As far as cover ups, we're all in luck! This summer may as well be called the Summer of the Kaftan. Or of the kimono, either way, it's happening in a big way. That means there are many, many options for cover ups that show off your personality.

If you're not sold on a particular look, the fact that they're trendy right now means you can try one out without spending a lot of money. Take a look at Forever21, for example, with gorgeous options like the cover up below. 

I also love this floral kimono by Asos, which you could easily wear off the beach, too! 

How to Wear Denim on Denim?

How to Wear Denim on Denim?

I had a reader question recently about wearing denim on denim, and I'm excited to talk about my answer today! I tend to think about a few things when putting a client in jean on jean or when wearing two shades of denim myself: shade, shape, and statement.

Via

Shade

I think that jean on jean can work as long as the shades of denim are different. Here is what I don't like:

The outfit above is from JCrew, which is a good reminder that even stylish stores can go awry. I just think that the shades of denim here are too close for comfort, too reminiscent of the old cowboy tuxedo. Not only that, the brown and brown accessories violate my last point about statement, but you'll have to continue reading for that!

Instead of choosing two shades of denim that very closely match each other, look for some contrast. Look for a washed out shade with a darker one or a brighter blue with a deeper one.

Via

Via

So, take a look in your closet and see if you have a darker jean bottom (skirt, jeans, leggings, dress that you can layer over) and see if you have a denim shirt that you can wear on top-if they're different shades. Or, if you're on the lookout for one of the many denim/chambray shirts that are currently on sale, wear your favorite jeans to be sure that they're not the same shade.

Shape

I've noticed that denim on denim can sometimes result in a sloppy fit. For whatever reason, women often wear ill-fitting jeans together with a baggier denim shirt. I don't think that has to be the case! There are ways to wear denim and denim that still emphasize your shape and that can even read as semi-professional.

I think it's important to pay attention to the fit of your denim, especially when you're wearing more than one piece. One way is to layer it with other pieces that flatter the skinniest part of your body, typically below your last rib. For example, what about adding a blazer on top? Many women I work with have sleeveless tops that are chambray, and this could look great with those tops!

Via

There's nothing at all sloppy about this, and I love how she used a third shade of blue in her purse. Very cute for a date night or a casual work environment!

Statement

When wearing denim on denim, keep in mind that your outfit is making a statement. Two shades of jean can look sloppy if they're just thrown on without any accessories or way to tie them together. If you go this route, be aware of making a statement and wear it with pride.

The look can read a bit cowgirl or a bit 70s, so it's fun to play around with pieces that echo that without looking like you are literally going to a rodeo (unless you are! in which case-yeehaw!) or to Studio 54. Think about bright pinks and great boots or big round hats, depending which way you go with it. Here's an adorable interpretation. 

 

She's wearing two distinct shades of denim, she's emphasizing the shape with a high waist and a tucked shirt, and she's making a statement with her belt, hat, and glasses. I would love for her to wear a different color shoe (maybe red?), but overall this is lovely. Yes, you could button up a bit more in the real world or even layer on a tank underneath. Also, for those where the weather is already warm, you could absolutely do this with cropped jeans or a chambray sleeveless top. 

So remember, shade (two distinct shades!), shape (emphasize yours!), and statement (you're making one. Own it!). I'd love to see how you rock denim on denim if you ever want to send me a picture!

UPDATE! Thanks, Hannah, for posting this gorgeous picture of you wearing denim on denim! I love the skinny belt, too!