Chris Martin

How to Dress Like Chris Martin

Chris Martin

The band Coldplay has been burning up the charts for several years now. The lead singer of Coldplay is Chris Martin who has a unique style of singing and can play the keyboards with the best of them. Because of the popularity of the band there are many guys these days that want to dress like Martin.

Martin has two very distinct looks and neither is hard to emulate. Follow the tips below and you will easily pull off either or both of Chris Martin’s styles:

EVERYDAY LOOK: Martin’s everyday look is much the same as the way the average guy looks. Here is what it entails:

•    Pants: Here Martin opts for jeans or cargo pants that are of a darker color. When choosing your jeans go for a classic fit or even a lose fit and never go with anything tight.
•    Shirts: When dressing in an everyday manner, Martin’s shirts consist of nothing more than a darker colored t-shirt. He seems to like to stick with dark grays or blacks and rarely strays from this formula.
•    Footwear: When just out and about and dressing like the every man, Martin will simply wear a pair of Converse style sneakers or even flip-flops at times. You can wear whatever is comfortable for you as that is what Martin seems to do.
•    Accessories: Martin is rarely seen without his tell-tale bracelets. He sometimes wears a watch and to complete this look and you should be sure to get yourself a pair of dark sunglasses to wear everywhere you go. You can also get a fitted ball cap and wear it backwards as this is a favorite style of Martin.

ARTISTIC LOOK: This is the look that Martin will sport many times while performing or when he is in the public eye. Here is how you can pull it off:

•    Pants: Black trouser style pants are the trick here. Rarely will he perform in jeans, but whatever he does perform in they will be black.
•    Shirts: When in artistic mode Martin is often seen in long sleeved black shirts. When picking out your black shirt go for any style as Martin has worn them all, including a very artistic long sleeved turtle neck.
•    Footwear: to go with the black pants and black shirt you will want to get, you know it, black shoes. You can go with black Converse style sneakers or a dressier loafer if you want to as Martin has been known to wear both.
•    Accessories: Again Martin has on his bracelets and to copy him properly you should not be shy of them yourself. Leave the sunglasses at home with this look.
•    Hair: Martin likes to keep his hair in a messy and spiky manner. If you have short hair, you can easily do this by using a heavy holding gel and just sort of messing up your hair.

Dressing like Chris Martin isn’t tough to do, but as you can see he likes the dark colors so be sure that you are not going to be outside on a hot day when emulating this rock star.

Brenda Song

How to Dress Like Brenda Song

Brenda Song

Brenda Song has been a model and actress for many years now and because she is so young she will no doubt enjoy many more years in the business. Perhaps best known for her role in the Suite Life of Zack and Cody, Song’s look is a well sought after one. To dress like Song you have to remember to keep with the light colored theme and always dress in a cheery and happy fashion.

Here are some tips on how you too can pull off the Brenda Song look:

•    Dresses: When Song goes for dresses she chooses those that are typically made of a lighter material and are always a cheery color. She likes reds and yellows and she seems to have fun mixing and matching accessories with her dresses. When choosing your dresses, go for what is comfortable. If you like a full version dress, then go for that and if you want to wear a longer style skirt, topped with a nice t-shirt, then that’s in the realm of the Song look as well. Just be sure to stay with bright and happy colors.
•    Casual look: Song can get as laid back as anyone. She is often seen wearing a pair of form fitting cargo pants or even a pair of jeans. She will always top this off with a fun tank top or t-shirt that will have a fun or wild design. She will sometimes go dark with the t-shirts, but more often than not, she will stick with white and accessorize from there.
•    Shoes: Song likes heels. Her heels are never too high, but no matter what she is wearing it seems that heel accompany the fashion. When choosing your heels pick a color that will compliment the clothing that you are wearing and depending on the fashion you are wearing you can go either open toe or close toe.
•    Accessories: Song likes to accessorize. She will often accessorize a t-shirt with a jacket or vest and has also been known to wear leggings with her dresses. When it comes to jewelry you can go kind of freelance here because Song does. Sometimes she will be sporting hoop earrings and still other times she will be wearing a pair of less noticeable earrings. She also wears bracelets and gold necklaces quite often so feel free to do so as well.
•    Hair and make-up: Song’s hair is elegant yet simple. It is long and straight and she is very rarely seen with it up. Do your hair by either parting it in the middle or to one side and don’t get crazy with the hair products. To apply your make-up like Song go with lighter colors but be sure to accentuate your cheek bones as Song does. She also opts for a lighter colored lip stick over a darker or bright color and to pull off the look you should too.

Now just practice flashing a huge smile wherever you go and your transformation into Brenda Song will be all but complete.

Ashley Greene

How to Dress Like Ashley Greene

Ashley Greene

Ashley Greene is probably best known for her role in the 2008 blockbuster hit movie Twilight in which she played the clairvoyant Alice Cullen. Anyone who has seen the movie knows that Greene’s character in the movie dressed in a dark and mysterious manner, but the real Ashley Greene dresses so far to the other end of the fashion spectrum it is almost laughable. In real life Greene dresses in a bright and cheery way that carries her with style and grace on the red carpet and simply around the town.

If you too want to emulate the style of the real life Ashley Greene here is what you do:

•    Dresses: Like her character in the movie Twilight Greene likes to wear a lot of dresses. But unlike the Cullen character, Greene wears bright and cheery colored dresses and not dark and depressing colors. She is often seen wearing colors such as yellows, blues, and other vibrant colors so when choosing your dresses go with the fun and happy colors.
•    Casual: Greene has been spotted off the scene with a simple pair of jeans that she likes to wear topped with a cute tank top. She will finish off this look with a light jacket and again opts for the opposite of her on-screen personality and stays with cheery colors. When you go casual just remember to be comfortable and happy and you should hit the nail on the head.
•    On the red carpet: When Greene is attending a red carpet gala event she is usually seen wearing a long gown that is made of lighter materials that is somewhat flowing. Here she tends to show off a bit of her cleavage and likes to wear gowns that are sleeveless or even strapless. The colors vary, but she usually sticks with the darker blues or goes red.
•    Shoes: The shoes that Greene wears are of course dictated by what she is wearing. When casual, she usually just wears sneakers or flip-flops. When you get your casual footwear go for darker colors that are not too noticeable. When dressing to the hilt, go with what Greene does and get a nice pair of lace up heels that match the dress or gown you will be wearing.
•    Accessories: Aside of a conservative pair of earrings, Greene really doesn’t wear too much in the way of accessories. When you go to accessorize, go for the lighter side of it all.
•    Hair and make-up: In the movie, Greene goes short and wild and again in real life she is the polar opposite. Do your hair down and give it just a hint of body using some gel but aside of that don’t get crazy. Your make-up should be done with lighter colors but should take you some time. Greene has a very nice look, but you can definitely tell she uses a lot of make-up, though she always goes for a more conservative look.

When dressing like Greene remember, you can’t think about the character she played because if that is your model you will not just miss the bull’s-eye, but you will miss the entire target all together.

Aly and AJ

How to Dress Like Aly and AJ

Aly and AJ

Aly and AJ have been on the music scene since 2004 and their careers continue to blossom into film as well as more music. They recently re-named their band to 78violet and are planning the release of their third album soon which they say will be more on the rocker side. Their fun style and flare have many young ladies across America wanting to emulate their looks and doing so couldn’t be easier.

Because they are sisters and because they share the spotlight in the band, Aly and AJ pretty much dress the same. Here is what to wear when you too want to look like these two music icons:

•    Shirts: These two sisters typically like to wear either from fitting khaki pants or jeans. While the khaki pants that they wear can vary in color rather greatly, they almost always wear a light blue color when it comes to their jeans. They always wear form fitting, but you will never find these two sisters flaunting what they have and wearing jeans or pants that are too tight.
•    Shirts: The duo likes to wear fun and vibrant colored shirts. These shirts can vary greatly in styles but usually they will go with multicolored tank tops or t-shirts that may even sport a cool design. If you decide to go with a longer sleeved shirt, then layer it with a rocker looking vest that contrasts the color of the shirt.
•    Dresses: When attending interviews off the stage you can sometimes catch the sister in dresses. These dresses are usually on the shorter side and are solid colors that range from sunny yellow to dark blue and every color in between.
•    Shoes: These two are seen in a number of different types of shoes, but more often than not they are wearing an open-toe pair of heels. The heels are not too high so when choosing yours, be sure that you can still move around in great comfort.
•    Accessories: Aly and AJ go big and bold when it comes to accessorizing. They are often spotted with big belts, big bracelets, big necklaces, and big earrings. The point is; big. They also wear the occasional scarf and even a loosely tied neck tie. When you choose your accessories, the important thing to remember is to have fun with it.
•    Hair and make-up: Both Aly and AJ have long blonde hair and style it rather simply. Some added curl can go a long way, but above all else, never wear it up, as the two always have their hair down. When it comes to make-up Aly and AJ have the ability to look as though they aren’t wearing a lot, even though they probably are, and pull of the all-natural look with the greatest of ease. When applying your make-up go light and stay more on the conservative side.

Now you can go out and get some voice lessons to truly be like these talented sisters. At least for now you can look like them.

Cate Blanchett

How to Dress Like Cate Blanchett

Cate Blanchett

Cate Blanchett is the daring Australian actress whose list of films covers a wide spectrum of roles. However in real life, her look is much more classy and refined. She sizzles on the red carpet, and looks polished and clean in every day affairs.

Her style is unique and doesn’t follow the trends. First throw all out preconceived notions of what is trendy and hot at the moment. Cate’s attitude is breezy and unfazed as to what people think of her, and this reflects in the clothing that she chooses.

Cate has a wide palette of desired colors. From neutrals like gray to bold colors like red, she has been seen in every color on the spectrum. Her most stunning outfits paint the red carpet in a rainbow of sparkles, plunging necklines, exposed backs, and flowing fabrics.

Remember that her style is never the same. To get some of Cate’s looks, go for the dressy, red carpet style. At an Italian fashion show this year, Cate was wearing a floral Armani Prive calf-length gown. The dress was black, with long and feathery flowers splashed across the front. In order to copy this exact look, find a dress with a boat neck collar and tiny sleeves. She pairs this dress with chunky silver pumps and a small silver clutch.

At a Vogue event in Sydney, Cate’s dress of choice was very different from the Armani. She opts for a bold scarlet dress this time, an eye-popping color. This dress falls down to the ankles and cinches at the feet, while the sleeves are long, extending to the wrists. The only exposed skin is her plunging neckline that stops at the empire waist band, giving the dress a mysterious sexiness by revealing just the right amount of skin. She adds matching scarlet sandals and three strands of chunky pearls as her only accessories. Her look is simple and classic.

One of Cate’s most stunning dresses was the one she wore to the 2007 SAG Awards. Her golden goddess dress catches every beam of light and casts her in a shimmering and radiant glow. The dress falls over her body like liquid, complementing her every curve. To pull off this same look, find a metallic gold dress that falls to the ankles in loose lines. This dress has a v-neck neckline and empire waist, while the straps are a bit thicker than your normal spaghetti strap. Cate wears a long silver medallion that falls right at the high empire waist, and crystal studded heels by Armani Prive. Sweep your hair back into a soft and feminine ponytail like Cate’s. This updo will show off the length of your neck, while drawing attention to the detail of the dress around the neckline.

Whatever dress style you choose, remember that Cate is never seen in anything that she doesn’t wear well. Even if most critics find her clothing sometimes unflattering, the way Cate carries herself causes her to look flawless in whatever she wears. Be confident, smile knowingly, and act like you look good no matter what you put on. That is the key to dressing like Cate Blanchett.

Brad Pitt

How to Dress Like Brad Pitt

Brad Pitt

Brad Pitt has been breaking hearts and enjoying the stardom of being every girls fantasy since he emerged as a young actor in Hollywood. His boyish good looks, charming smile, and sexy physique have caused many women to daydream that one day they too will find someone as handsome as he is. He has many looks, and can turn heads whether he is on the red carpet or running errands on a Sunday. If you want women to fall over you the way they do over Brad, then start copying his look with a few tips below.

He always wears solids. Rarely do you see Brad in a bold print. Solid colors are classic, and easy to pair with other items. It is wise to stock up on button down shirts, shorts, and pants that are solids, since they never go out of style and can be worn with anything in your closet. When you wear these solids, make sure they are neutral colors. Brad wears a lot of white, black, gray, beige, and muted reds and blues. You will never see him standing out in bold lime green or orange colors.

Brad has a great physique. In Fight Club, Brad flaunts his body in almost every scene, and you can get that same tone in your body by doing a lot of high intensity cardio and weight training to get that lean and muscular look. In every day life, Brad shows off his well-sculpted arms and flat abs by pairing snug jeans with a tight t-shirt in a neutral color.

Brad would not look as polished if he didn’t always make sure his clothes were well laundered and well pressed. He also goes for quality over quantity. All of Brad’s clothes fit him impeccably, and therefore his attire is always flawless. Always go for higher quality clothing when looking like Brad Pitt. Look for tighter stitching and a smooth and sturdy collar. For the sleeves, make sure that they don’t hug your arms, but that there isn’t too much extra fabric, either. Then before you leave the house, make sure your clothes are clean and ironed.

Many women dream of running their fingers through Brad’s hair. He usually keeps it short and styles it to be a bit spiky. Most of the time his hair is very blond. If your hair isn’t as blond as Brad’s then you will need to get a few highlights.

Brad is always sporting sunglasses. Shades definitely add to the sex appeal of a man. You can opt for a sexy and ultra modern black pair of Dior, or a more casual aviator look.

Last but not least is Brad’s dazzling smile. No look would be complete without the smile that causes millions of women to swoon. Get those pearly whites extra sparkly with a trip to the dentist for a cleaning and whitening.

No doubt that Brad Pitt is one of the sexiest men to ever walk the planet. But his style isn’t too difficult to mimic, and if you take some of his fashion advice, maybe you too can have the ladies falling at your feet in adoration.

Artist

How to dress like an Artist

Artist

Artists are all about being creative. You might think that their need to leave their artistic mark ends with a canvas, a lump of clay, or a sheet of paper. This is not the case. You can spot an artist from across the street by the way they dress.

Artists tend to extend their artistic chops to every area of their lives, including their wardrobes. They can’t stop creating, even if they try. Everything they touch, own, and wear becomes a medium of individual expression. It’s the artist’s way.

Take an artist’s clothes for example. Artists always look like they just stepped off of some bohemian runway. Their clothes make a statement, whether it’s politically, socially, or personally. The funky, unique style of an artist is craved by many, both artists and non-artists alike.

Artists manage to achieve that coveted style without breaking the bank. Yet they still look as if they only wear one-of-a-kind couture that would set you back a few bucks. However, just the opposite is true. Artists make the most out of what they have. They take ordinary t-shirts, jeans, pants and dresses and make them into something special. They use scissors, paint, and anything else they can get their hands on to turn that ratty old shirt into something spectacular. They don’t call them ‘starving artists’ for nothing.

While artists love to make their clothing more unique by adding their own special touch, there are also other tell-tale signs of a person being an artist. If you know these things, you can do them too, in order to truly give the impression that you are an artist.

•    Forget about the details. Most artists do not spend time on seeking out jewelry to go with an outfit. They wear jewelry that is unique and stands out.
•    Quite often their outfits are un-ironed and have a thrown together look, because in fact they were thrown together. If you spend too much time on matching details, you will give away the fact, that you are not quite artist material.
•    Many artists wear dark colors and often are not quite in the right size. The starving artist look often means shopping in places like second-hand stores and vintage stores and choosing things with style. Sometimes they don’t perfectly fit, but adjustments can be made.
•    Artists often tend to have a bohemian look to their clothing. Flowing outfits in a variety of colors are perfect for an artist look.

The most important part of dressing like an artist is letting your creativity show through what you are wearing. Whether you have a T-shirt, jacket or skirt, an artist is bound to change it to make it unique. Paint, adornments and rips help them to make it their own. Because they are not confined by the typical fashion rules, they will also mix and match styles, textures, fabrics and even fads to get something completely new.

Dressing like an artist is about being resourceful and using what you have. Let your imagination soar and create artistic outfits that are completely unique. Just remember to always be relaxed enough to get paint on your clothes.

Tuxedo

Top 5 Places to Wear a Tuxedo T-Shirt

Tuxedo

T-shirts are one of the greatest inventions of modern times. Just about everyone has at least a few of these leisurely staples in their closet, and some won’t wear anything but. With their comfortable fit, soft textures and catchy graphics, they’re the antithesis of formal wear. That’s why at first glance, a tuxedo t-shirt seems a bit ironic. While a traditional tuxedo includes a complicated ensemble consisting of a jacket, trousers, a waistcoat or cummerbund, a dress shirt, a bow tie, dress socks and polished dress shoes, the tuxedo t-shirt condenses all of those trappings into one easy-to-wear piece. This popular trend is a humorous take on the formalities of life as they relate to the wardrobe.

The classic tuxedo t-shirt features a white image of an imitation tuxedo shirt, jacket lapels, bow tie and sometimes a flower, printed on a black t-shirt. Just like regular tuxedos, the shirts can also be found in different colors, such as light blue or white. Varying color schemes are also available to imitate tuxedo ensembles, such as a black shirt with a red vest and tie. But who really cares which one you pick? The attraction is the tongue-in-cheek humor and the fact that you can pull off wearing a t-shirt when you should be wearing a tuxedo!

Tuxedo t-shirts aren’t for every occasion, but here are a few situations where the look may just be appropriate.

1.    At the beach.
Your date will be so impressed that you dressed up for your big night out. Well, sort of. The tuxedo t-shirt will make you look dressed up without have to get dressed up, which is why it’s genius. Plus you’ll stay cool if it’s hot out.
2.    At parties. The tuxedo t-shirt is the perfect get-up for a party. Not only will you stand out in the crowd, you’re sure to get lots of comments from men and women alike. Best of all, the ladies will know that your personality is even more attractive than your looks!
3.    At weddings. This occasion must be approached with caution. If your fiancé has been planning the perfect wedding for going on two years, a tuxedo t-shirt likely isn’t part of the plan. Show up in this baby, and you might as well head for home. But if you’re a couple with a sense of humor and want to break the tension usually associated with a wedding, this is the way to go. To create a truly custom look, have your names and wedding date printed on the back of your shirt. A tuxedo t-shirt could also be a fun choice if you’re a guest at a wedding that isn’t overly formal.
4.    At a second wedding. You already endured the pomp and circumstance of a big first wedding. This time around, why not have some fun? Dress in a tuxedo t-shirt (and of course a matching bride t-shirt for her). If you have attendants, let them in on the fun too.
5.    As a gag gift. If you’ve got a family member or buddy that absolutely refuses to don a shirt and tie, a tuxedo t-shirt is the perfect gag gift. Try giving it as a party gift at a bachelor party (so the lucky guy can sport it at the wedding rehearsal).

Buy a Tuxedo T-Shirt

Anna Kornikova

How to Dress Like Anna Kournikova

Anna Kornikova

Anna Kournikova is famous all over the globe for many reasons. Her rocking tennis body is the envy of many women, and the fantasies of many men; her signature cascading blonde locks make her stand out in a crowd; and her high profile relationship with Enrique Iglesias all work to thrust her into the spotlight. You may love her, you may hate her, but Anna Kournikova has style and finesse that is uniquely hers. You can copy this Russian beauty’s look by following the steps below.

Let’s start with the hair. If you don’t already have a shining blonde mane, then you will need to find a wig, or get hair extensions for a more realistic effect. Extensions will be the very expensive option, since you will need to first buy the hair, and then find a salon that will put them in for you. Be sure to keep your hair well conditioned to maintain the shine. Anna usually wears her hair up in a ponytail during the day. For nighttime, she lets it fall down her back in long, loose waves.

Anna has a distinct sun-kissed glow. Get this same look the healthy way by applying self tanner. Be sure to exfoliate your skin first to remove the dead skin cells, otherwise you may end up with dark patches and an uneven skin tone.

Anna has a phenomenally fit body due to years on the tennis courts. Because of this, she can wear very little clothing and still look fantastic. Whether you opt for an all white tennis outfit, skimpy bikini, or little black dress for the evening, keep your accessories at a minimum. Anna doesn’t wear much jewelry, and her look is understated and sexy as a result.

When it comes to clothes, find a cute tennis skirt with a matching racer back tank. Anna tends to wear sporty outfits on and off the court, so don’t limit your outfit to only the gym. Be sure that everything you buy is form fitting. When looking for a bikini, buy the skimpiest one in the store. Anna has a hot beach body and likes to show it off. When it comes to a night on the town, Anna’s pick is a little black dress. Pick out a short one that shows a healthy amount of your legs, and pair them with some short heels. Anna is rarely seen in stilettos.

Get a simple but classy bag. Anna doesn’t overdo it on the accessories, but can always be seen with a practical yet sophisticated purse. She has been spotted carrying the Louis Vuitton Multicolor 30 Speedy to various tennis matches. This is a very informal bag that doesn’t stand out too much and will go with anything.

As far as makeup goes, Anna favors the natural look. By day she usually wears some smudged black liner, mascara, and light gloss. At night she opts to vamp it up by adding some bold red lipstick. Less is more when making up your face like Anna.

From hitting the gym to religiously using self-tanner, it takes a bit more effort to pull off the Anna Kournikova look. But by following these steps, you’re sure to stop traffic like she does.

Graduation

What to Wear With Your Graduation Robes

Graduation

Graduation is an exciting time! After years of study and work, you have finally reached the pinnacle of academic success. When preparing for your graduation ceremony, it’s difficult to know exactly what you should wear under that large, shapeless robe. But after all of the time, money and effort you have invested in your education, you should plan to look your best for this recognition of your achievements!

Keep in mind that there is a great deal of tradition behind the wearing of academic dress. The academic dress found at most institutions in the United States and Great Britain is descended from the styles of medieval European universities. While the traditional gowns, hoods and caps are typically seen only at graduation ceremonies, in some universities the ensemble is still worn on a daily basis to denote academic standing or affiliation with certain societies. Generally the more elaborate the ensemble, the more important the wearer.

What is worn underneath the gown depends largely on the institution from which you will graduating. Some older universities specify a certain dress code to be worn under academic ensembles, while other universities and high schools are more relaxed in their requirements. Conservative formal clothing is the general rule in these situations, including a suit, shirt and tie for men, and a blouse and skirt or a dress for women. Out of respect for the occasion, very casual clothing such as t-shirts, jeans and shorts should not be worn under graduation robes. Certain institutions may not allow you to participate in the procession or ceremony if you are dressed inappropriately.

An important consideration is the season of your graduation ceremony. If the weather is cool, then men should consider wearing a dark suit. Not only will this be warmer, but the shape of the jacket will give the gown more form and look better for pictures. If your ceremony is to be held during the spring or summer when temperatures are warm, or if it’s in an indoor location where the temperature will rise, men may simply opt for a dress shirt and tie. A dressy white top and dark skirt will be appropriate for a woman in either case, long-sleeved for cooler weather and short-sleeved for hot weather.

The graduation hood is worn around the neck, and is usually secured by a button on a shirt or blouse. If you are wearing a shirt that does not have buttons, the hood can also be pinned but keep in mind this may leave a tear or mark on your shirt. Ladies should keep in mind that wearing a low-cut top or dress will make pinning the hood difficult.

If it’s important to you to stand out in a sea of monotone color and square caps, you should consider wearing an unusual shoe style or, for the ladies, interesting earrings. Platform shoes and high heels can not only be a fun way to express your individuality, they can also add several inches to your height and help you to look better in pictures. So plan to dress the part for graduation, relax and enjoy the big day!

Casual

What Celebrities Wear When Going Casual

Casual

When you’re a celebrity, what you wear is constantly being photographed, commented on, analyzed, praised and derided. It just comes with the territory. Whether or not we realize it, celebrities have a big influence on the styles and brands the general public ultimately wears. While most people don’t recognize the names of the fashion industry’s latest hot designers and pay no attention to the runway shows, a much larger percentage will recognize Hollywood’s big stars and the fashion trends they have made famous. Celebrities, not designers, have become our fashion inspirations.

The link between fashion and celebrities has become so strong that many celebrities now endorse their own clothing lines. A prime example is rapper Sean “Puffy” Combs, who used his musical fame and bad-boy persona to jump-start his own line of clothing and accessories for men and boys. The Sean John label has become widely popular, and includes suits, knitwear, bottoms, outerwear, leather accessories, ties, hats and denim.

While some celebrities are best known for their spectacular “red carpet” fashions, others have a more casual, approachable fashion sense. While still a cut above something you’d find at Target (especially when it comes to the price tag), their styles are the kind that the average Joe or Jane would wear when walking the dog or reading a good book at home. Here are some popular celebrities who manage a casual style that’s easy on the eyes and the body.

Jennifer Aniston. Jennifer Aniston is a woman who always manages to look fabulous even in the most casual of clothing. Jeans are one of her staples, especially James Jeans paired with a casual t-shirt, sweater or flowy top. Speaking of t-shirts, these are another favorite of hers, in neutral colors or with fun graphics. Jennifer loves flip-flops and is frequently seen wearing toe rings.

Gwyneth Paltrow. While Gwyneth Paltrow is often dressed in designer gowns for awards shows and premieres, she also knows how to do a classic laidback style that nearly any woman can imitate. Her Blue Cult jeans have become a favorite, and were so requested by fans that the design was renamed the “Gwyneth” jean. She likes to pair her jeans with a loosely buttoned blouse or fitted tee.

Kate Hudson. Kate Hudson has mastered the art of looking effortlessly casual. Her style encompasses Bohemian looks such as drapey blouses over skinny jeans. For winter weather, tall boots are a Kate favorite.
Cameron Diaz. Beach baby Cameron Diaz always goes for chic ensembles that don’t require a lot of fuss. Cute tees, tank tops, classic jean styles like Joe’s Jeans and comfortable ballerina flats are some of her favorites.

Gwen Stefani. This busy mom does a great job mixing simple, easy wearing clothes such as tank tops and ballet tops with ethnic-inspired pieces. Her eclectic fashion sense has resulted in her own fashion label called L.A.M.B., with original designs that can be worn by celebrities and common folk alike.

Even if you’re not a celebrity, it’s great to know that you can still look great even on days when you’re just headed to the park — and not an awards show!

Summer

What To Wear In The Summer

Summer

Summer brings to mind hot days, relaxing by the beach, cook-outs, vacations and more. There is music that reminds one of summer. There are summer books, summer meals and summer drinks. The favorite season of so many, summer takes on a life of its own. Even if we never really take a vacation away from home, summer brings a break from the ordinary routines of the rest of the year. We are more likely to get outside, socialize and have fun. Knowing what to wear in summer will help you get the most out of your favorite season.

Dressing for summer is always a matter of choosing the right outfit that will keep you cool, but will also keep you covered. Shorts and a T-shirt are always a great casual option, however the length of your shorts in something to keep in mind. If you have a great figure you may get away with wearing shorter shorts. However, for the most part, you should keep your short shorts for trips to the beach, hanging out with friends and doing things around your home. The same rule applies for halter tops and crop tops. If it reveals too much skin, you need to limit where you wear it. Long shorts like Bermuda shorts are a great compromise and can be worn in many places.

It is absolutely a necessity in the summer to have a great looking bathing suit. If you don’t wear it often, check it at the beginning of the season and periodically to make sure it is still in good shape and still in style. Invest in a matching cover-up for modesty’s sake.

For a casual but more dressed up look, Capri pants are essential to any summer wardrobe. Capri pants are even available in men’s versions now. Pair capris with a dressy T-shirt or shirt and a nice pair of sandals and you have an outfit that can take you to a restaurant, a party, the beach, church, shopping or just about anywhere.

Summer dresses are a fun addition to any woman’s wardrobe. Light in color and texture, a summer dress is usually flowing and exposes the shoulders. It makes the woman wearing it appear to embrace summer. Such dresses are great for just about anything from a lunch out with friends to a party to a casual summer wedding.

For work, many businesses have a summer dress code. As with business casual guidelines, it is different for each company. Sometimes it may mean that you are allowed to actually wear shorts to work. However more often it means that professional business dress is less important during the summer months.

For formal events in the summer, opt for dresses in light fabrics and light colors. Carry a cover-up in case of over-zealous air conditioning. Match your dress with high heeled strappy sandals and you’ll be ready for any event. For guys, light colored suits may be suitable for certain semi-formal events, while for others only the weight of the suit can lighten up.

Start working on your summer wardrobe today and let the possibilities unfold.

Leggings

What to Wear with Leggings

Leggings

Leggings are probably the most comfortable thing you can wear and one of the more versatile. Because they contour to your body, after a while you feel like you are wearing nothing at all. Leggings can also help to keep your legs warm when the temperature outside starts to dip and they are the perfect solution for those who have nice legs but a few blemished that they would rather not show off. The best thing about leggings is the almost unlimited outfits that can be put together using these versatile leg coverings.

Leggings are a great way to dress for a casual setting and even a semi-formal setting. Here is how you can jazz up your leggings and look great no matter what the occasion:

•    Baby doll dresses: A baby doll dress is a great pairing with leggings. Using black leggings will allow you to use any color baby doll dress that you like. For a casual setting a nice vibrant color such as red fits the bill and when paired with a matching pair of closed-toe heels you will look great and be able to get ready in just a few short minutes.
•    Miniskirts: Miniskirts look awesome with leggings and by again using black leggings; you can use any color or material in regards to the miniskirt. A cool and casual look is a denim miniskirt that is paired with a bright colored blouse. You can dress up the fashion by using a designer shawl and go for a sensible pair of flats when choosing your footwear.
•    Slinky dress: Slinky dresses are sleeveless and like a baby doll slip right over your body. Utilizing black leggings you can go with a vibrant green colored slinky skirt and use a bright colored waist belt, such as yellow, to tie in the outfit. You can wear the waist belt up higher than normal in order to set a nice contrast to the dress. For shoes go with a fun style heel that is the same bright color as the belt. This look is nice enough for a casual day as well as a fun night out with the girls.
•    Longer blouses: Black leggings also look great with longer blouses. When selecting your blouses go with ones that are frilly at the top and be sure that they are long enough to cover the buttock area. Use a wide belt to tie in the outfit and pair it with a pair of matching flats and you have the ultimate in comfortable casual.
•    Fancy dresses: You can also wear your black leggings with a number of fancier style dresses that are on the shorter side. Wear dresses that have bows in the middle for a great contrasting look. By putting it all together with a nice pair of pumps and an eloquent hand bag, you will have an outfit that is nice enough to be worn just about anywhere you go.

Leggings make for a great alternative to pants and jeans and the best part is they will go with many of the garments that are currently hanging in your closet.

Kayaking

What to Wear Kayaking

Kayaking

When you get into the sport of kayaking you will have many fun filled adventures. While the sport can tend to be a costly one, there is nothing quite like the feelings you get when paddling down a white river or even if you are paddling into the open ocean.

Knowing what to wear when kayaking is essential to ensure that you get the most out of this action packed sport. Here are the things you will need to wear when you go kayaking:

•    Dry suit or wetsuit: A dry suit or wetsuit is an essential piece of clothing to have on when you go kayaking especially when the water is frigid. Wearing a wetsuit or dry suit means that you will not only stay dry, but your body temperature will be trapped inside the suit and this will help to keep you nice and warm.
•    Personal Flotation Device: Also known as a PFD, these are not only mandatory by law but absolutely necessary to ensure a safe time. Most PFDs are a bright color and they are good piece of mind to have on as you never can tell what might happen when you are kayaking.
•    Booties: These are worn on your feet and are essential to help keep your feet dry. These should feel comfortable on your feet and should also fit easily into your kayak. If you opt to go without the booties your waterlogged and soggy feet will certainly remind you that you did.
•    Gloves: Gloves will help to keep your hands warm and dry in the cooler water and also prevent other things from happening to them. A good pair of gloves can greatly diminish your chances of getting blisters, scrapes, and cuts on your hands due to a rough day of kayaking.
•    Helmet: Again, this isn’t required by law but anyone that doesn’t want to have one on should have their head examined. In the sport of Kayaking you are constantly being churned about in the rough waters and you will certainly hit your head a time or two. What do you think is going to protect your head when you do hit it?
•    Non-essentials: Other non-essentials that you may want to consider before you go kayaking are items such as a spray skirt which will help keep water out of your kayak, a rope bag that can be tossed to someone should trouble arise, a dry bag which is perfect for keeping gear dry, float bags which keep the kayak from sinking should you get separated from it, and a trusty knife just in case you need to cut yourself free from any debris.

While some of these items are essential and some are non-essential, in order to fully enjoy kayaking you should strongly consider all of the above. If you are going to skimp on some items be sure that you don’t skimp on the safety gear. Remember that you can always replace physical objects but you can never replace a human life.

America Ferrera

How to Dress Like America Ferrera

America Ferrera

America Ferrera is best known for her lead role in the television series Ugly Betty. She also is widely known for her role in the Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants parts one and two. She has a classic look to her and never seems to try to be more than she really is. It is for that reason that many young women these days aspire to dress like the young actress.

Whether dressing for comfort or for the red carpet, Ferrera always encompasses the All American Girl look and pulls it off with the greatest of ease. Here are some ways that you too can look just as natural and great as Ferrera:

•    Casual: Ferrera is often seen in a pair of form fitting jeans and a t-shirt while she is just walking around. This is an easy look to mimic and also a very comfortable one. Be sure to choose jeans that are indeed form fitting, but that are not too tight as this is not characteristic of Ferrera. Go with lighter colors for the t-shirts as this seem to be a favorite of Ferrera. When in casual mode you can go with sneakers, flip-flops, or even a pair of sensible heals as Ferrera has been seen in all three while dressing down.
•    Formal: Ferrera is a big fan of longer dresses and gowns when it comes time to strut her stuff on the red carpet. When choosing your dress go with one that comes down to at least your knees and go with darker colors as this will have a slimming and elongating effect. Ferrera must love purple and blue as she has been seen in numerous dresses and gowns that are colored so. Be sure that the dress or gown you choose is form fitting, but also be sure that it flatters your figure and isn’t too tight. Go with a nice pair of heels that of course match the color of the dress or gown and that also have an open toe.
•    Accessories: Perhaps because she is such an all natural girl, Ferrera wears virtually no accessories. Sometimes at a formal setting she can be spotted with a bracelet on and she usually wears very low key earrings, but other than that, nothing really to speak of. When you think of accessorizing your outfit, go very low key to emulate Ferrera.
•    Hair and make-up: Ferrera has a darker skin tone that the average woman and does not complicate her beautiful tone with a lot of make-up. When you do your make-up, go light and aim for the natural look. When it comes to your hair, wear it down as Ferrera more times than not has hers down. To get the complete Ferrera look, part your hair on one side and use some spray gel to give it some extra body and bounce but be sure to stay on the natural side.

To truly be like Ferrera, just be yourself. She is easily one of the most natural beauties in Hollywood today and certainly proves that women with curves can be beautiful too.

Plus size

Plus Size Women Fashion Tips – What Not to Wear

Plus size

Everyone was created differently and for that reason it really is true that everyone is special in their own unique way. When it comes to the shape of women, some were created petite and some were created as more of a plus size. While one is no better that the other, there are certain things that a plus size woman should avoid wearing.

Fashion often comes down to how good you feel in a garment, but there are some easy no, no’s to avoid that will have you looking better and feeling better as a result no matter how plus in size you are. Some things to avoid as a plus size woman are:

•    Horizontal lines: Horizontal lines tend to give things, including people, a stretched image. If you are already a plus size then wearing clothing that features these types of lines is only drawing to that fact on a greater level.
•    Sizes too small: If you are a size 16, then wear a size 16. A lot of times, especially with dresses, you may find an unbelievably cute dress that is a size or so too small for you. Don’t give into temptation and get the dress thinking you can pull it off. If you are already plus sized, then wearing extra tight clothing is not going to compliment your figure. Stick to dresses and other clothing in your size and leave the stuff that is too small alone. As cute as it is, there are other ones just as cute that will actually fit you, so just leave it on the rack.
•    Bright colors: Bright colors make for bigger appearances. Avoid bright yellows, reds, and violets to name a few as this will give the impression that you are bigger than you are. Again, you want to compliment your figure, not complicate it. This isn’t to say that you have to dress in dark drab colors all the time, but be careful how bright you go.
•    Skinny Jeans: Skinny jeans, or tapered leg jeans, only look good on skinny women – and the jury is still out on that- and will not compliment your full figure. Wearing skinny jeans will not only be very uncomfortable on you they can also give you the appearance of having stumpy looking ankles and that is not a look you will want to go for. Stick to the loose fit jeans and let the 100 pound and under women have the skinny jean trend.
•    Short-shorts: Not everyone in the world was designed to wear short shorts and if you are a plus sized woman, avoid them. If you insist on wearing short shorts you are asking to be teased and that is not going to do your image or your self-esteem any good. There are plenty of cute carpris and bahama shorts that will not only fit you great, but compliment your fuller figure as a result.

You should never have to feel bad that you are a plus size woman as you are just as special as anyone else alive today. Dressing yourself to look great, helps you feel great as a result and will help you keep that great looking smile on your face day in and day out.

Pleats and cuffs

When to Wear Cuffs and Pleats

Pleats and cuffs

Perhaps there is nothing more traditionally formal looking than a pair of dress pants that are pleated and have cuffs. The style and elegance are ones that can be dated back for over one hundred years, if not more. Still today many men like to wear a classic looking pair of trousers that are pleated and cuffed, but when is it the appropriate time to wear cuffs and pleats?

Here are some times when cuffs and pleats are appropriate:

•    At the office: As previously mentioned, cuffs and pleats are for a formal setting and so they are perfect for an office type job that is more on the upscale side. Anyone from lawyers to stock brokers and even real estate agents can all be seen wearing a nice looking pair of pants that feature the classic pleats and cuffs.
•    A formal event: Let’s say you are attending a wedding and you are not actually in the wedding. You don’t want to go too formal and rent a tuxedo but you still want to dress in a formal fashion and avoid throwing on some Dockers. A sharp looking pair of pleated and cuffed pants is the perfect solution and will have you looking sharp without much effort. Pair the pants with a nice white button down shirt and add a nice tie and you will be one of the best dressed men to attend the wedding.
•    Presentations: If your job requires you to do presentations then a pair of pants with cuffs and pleats is perfect for you. The classic look gives the impression that the pants are fresh off the press and that type of attention to detail screams success. As wrong as it may be, many people judge you by what you wear long before they ever get to know you.

Here are some occasions not to wear cuffs and pleats:

•    Casual Friday: Cuffs and pleats are way too formal to allow you to get away with wearing them in a casual setting. If you were to wear your pleated and cuffed pants on a Casual Friday you risk looking like you are stuffy and you will definitely stick out like a sore thumb.
•    Boy’s night out: Unless you are trying to sell something to one of your friends, leave the cuffed and pleated pants at the house and opt for something a little more laid back. Hanging out is a casual thing and if you wear your cuffed and pleated pants out with the guys you will look out of place and have people thinking you are the attorney for your friends.
•    Alone: You shouldn’t wear cuffs alone or pleats alone. If you buy a pair of pants that are pleated but not cuffed, you will want to get them cuffed. One because it will look better and two because it will help the pants hang the right way. If you cuff your pants and there are no pleats you are screaming 70s so do yourself a favor and just get unpleated pants that are the proper length.

In a nut shell, when you want to look your best a nice classic pair of pants that feature cuffs and pleats will help you get the job done every single time.

Thrift stores

Why Shop in Thrift Stores?

Thrift stores

Going to a thrift store is sort of like digging for treasure in that you never know what you will uncover. In today’s fast paced world where everybody wants something new now, many people are simply dumping off lots of really cool fashions at their local thrift shops. While fast pace may be for them, perhaps it is not so much for you and for this reason you may want to consider shopping a thrift stores.

Why shop at thrift store? There are a number of reasons, here a just a few:

•    Savings: They are called thrift stores for a reason. Because you are buying someone’s ‘leftovers’ you will be paying rock bottom prices. This is a great opportunity to pick up some designer fashions that you would normally pass over at the mall and best of all you can get these designer fashions for pennies on the dollar. To the thrift store it is worth it because all of the items you see in the thrift store are items that have been donated and so the cost basis for the thrift store is zero. Great for them and great for you.
•    Go vintage: If you look at fashion today a lot of what was popular a few years ago is coming back into style now. Fashion tends to do that and a thrift store is a great place to go to find these ‘vintage’ items that will complete your ensemble. Unlike a vintage clothing shop that knows what they have, thrift stores tend to mark articles of clothing the same price according to what type of garment it is. So if you are looking at t-shirts, a thrift store will have all of them marked at say $2.00 each, they simply won’t care what style or brand it is. But a vintage store owner knows what they are looking at and if they know that a certain shirt is popular you can bet the price will reflect that.
•    Discontinued items: How many times have you found a favorite brand of clothing and bought a couple of the items only to find out a few months later that the style or brand has been discontinued?  With the advent of the thrift store nothing is ever really discontinued, you just have to have tenacity and keep looking and eventually you will find a thrift store that has exactly what you are looking for.
•    Hidden gems: You hear so many cool stories about people just like you going into a thrift store not expecting much and coming out with a handful of really nice and really expensive designer clothes or a designer purse that they paid next to nothing for. A trip to a thrift store is a true modern day treasure hunt.

Thrift stores offer so much more than just monetary savings these days and a trip to your local thrift store will undoubtedly be a fun one and have you coming home with something that is new to you and an added smile to your face.

Scarf

How to Wear a Scarf

Scarf

Most every fashionista owns a scarf, but lately this wardrobe staple seems to be especially popular as a fashion accessory. Nothing screams sophisticate like a beautiful, well-placed scarf. One of the advantages of wearing a scarf is they can be used to highlight (or downplay) your most attractive features, which is why they should be a part of every woman’s wardrobe.

Scarves aren’t just for wintertime either. Whether it’s windy and cold or warm and sunny, this fashion accessory can be worn year-round. The trick is choosing the right shape and the right fabric, and then wearing it with grace. Here are a few pointers for choosing a scarf that you can get the most out of.

•    Scarves come in a rainbow of fabrics. Wool and cashmere materials are the best choices for winter wear because they retain warmth. Before purchasing, however, be sure the material does not irritate your skin.  Silk scarves are a nice option if you are looking for a dressier style, or if you want something to wear during the summer as the lightweight fabric allows body heat to escape easily.
•    With so many styles available, it can be difficult to know what shape of scarf to buy. Scarves come in triangles, squares, and rectangles of varying sizes. The easiest and most versatile shape to have is a long, thin rectangular scarf. The longer length will make the piece more functional, allowing you to wear it as a headwrap, a belt, or around your neck or shoulders.
•    After you decide on the fabric and shape, you can then focus on the color and print of your scarf. First decide if you want the scarf to stand out or coordinate with your outfit. If you are wearing monotones, a brightly colored and patterned scarf will help to pull your outfit together and add sizzle. A scarf that matches your clothing will be much more subtle, while still adding sophistication. If your clothing includes bright colors or prints, a solid color scarf will help anchor your look.
•    In the spring and fall, wear a medium-weight scarf looped around your neck to protect against the chill. Choose a heavier-weight scarf for winter wear, and wrap around your ears and neck to stay warm and cozy.
•    Tie a scarf around your waist for a sexy alternative to wearing a belt. Fasten it in place with a beautiful brooch or sparkly pin.
•    For a chic bracelet, tie a scarf around your wrist and fasten with a brooch or pin.
•    At the pool, turn a lightweight scarf draped around your waist into a fabulous sarong by tying it in front or at the side. You could even turn a large square scarf into a sexy halter top by tying two ends around your back.
•    Scarves are a wonderful hair accessory, whether worn tied around a ponytail, used as a headband or wrapped around the head to cover up a bad dye job.

Olive oil stains

How to Remove Olive Oil Stains from Clothes

Olive oil stains

Cooking with olive oil is a great alternative to some of the higher cholesterol oils that are available today. Olive oil also adds a nice taste to many foods and leaves behind a wonderful aroma. But when you accidentally spill some olive oil on your clothes it creates a nasty stain that can be a hassle to get rid of you if you do not properly treat it.

As with any other oil stain, you do not want to dry the affected garment in the clothes dryer until the stain has been removed. If you do you will help to ‘set in’ that stain for good and once that happens there is little you can do. Here is how you can effectively remove those pesky olive oil stains from your clothes:

•    Baking soda:
Before you get the garment wet take a pinch or two of baking soda and sprinkle it over the olive oil stain. This will help absorb some of the oil and leave you with less to treat. Let the garment sit for a few minutes and then use warm water to rinse out the excess baking soda.
•    Pre-treat the garment: You can spend a good amount of money on some fancy stain removers but many that are on the market simply don’t work that well. A better solution is to use Dawn dishwashing detergent. The reason is because Dawn is meant to take out grease when you are washing your dishes. Olive oil is in fact a form of grease and the same agents in Dawn that help clean your dishes will also help you clean your oil stained clothes. Simply put a few drops right in the middle of the stain and rub together for about five minutes or so.
•    Soak the garment: Mix together warm water and some more Dawn and let the garment soak in the solution for a few hours or even overnight.
•    Wash the garment: After the garment has soaked you can take it out of the soapy solution and wring it as dry as you are able. Then simply wash the garment in a regular load and use the hottest water possible going by the washing instructions of the garment. When the load is done do not put your garment in the clothes dryer.
•    Dry the garment: Remember, if you use your clothes dryer to dry the garment and the stain is not completely gone then you will be setting in the stain and your garment could get permanently ruined. Instead let the garment air dry and be sure that the stain is completely gone.
•    Repeat if necessary: You may need to repeat the process if the stain is very bad. Olive oil is sometimes fickle and some stains require more than one treatment. There is no set number but if you keep at it, the stain will eventually go away.

Once the stain is totally gone you can once again treat your garment as normal and wash and dry it with the rest of your clothes as you normally would.