What to wear when you have 'Nothing to Wear'?

'What to wear' has become a BIG question which needs to be answered every morning! The moment you open that clothes-warehouse (your wardrobe), you are under tremendous pressure to find that one eligible outfit that you can carry for the day..

(Lots of laughs..)

Sorry for making it sound so pressurizing like business targets.. but its a fact!

No matter how many clothes we shop for and stack in our wardrobe, there come those moments when we stare at our wardrobe endlessly trying to find the right kind of outfit.

Let's read further to know how can you find something when you have nothing to wear!!

Staple # 1 - Classic Blue Jeans

 

 

The Classic Blue Jeans is something you can never go wrong with. Its the safest wardrobe bet to have a well-fitted blue denim in your wardrobe.

 

With plethora of options available in fits, colors and coordinates, the Classic Blue Jeans is most versatile of all.. Just one pair of good jeans with get you by any wardrobe dilemma.

Its a perfect investment in clothing..

 

Is the perfect jeans missing in your wardrobe?? /0\

It's never to late.. :)

Go and grab it asap!!

 

 

 

Staple # 2 - Layers

 

Jackets, shrugs or anything to layer is something many of us don't consider as staples.. but think of repeating the same outfit and you'll feel you're short of clothes..

 

Layers come handy in such times when just a layer makes a total outfit difference.

Layers are also very figure complememting, like Shrugs and short Jackets for Pear Shape and longer flowy ones clinched at waist for Column Shape.

 

Currently, and since a very long time, textured and printed jackets are worn by so many celebs and fashionistas. You can choose which one you like the most and have it at your disposal..!

 

Staple # 3 - Dressy Camisoles

 

Deep necks, sheer tops, in-cut sleeves..
Underneath the shrugs, with the tank tops, under sun-dresses and jackets.. Numerous options for this one lingerie necessity.






Colored camisoles go really well with the trend of the bold and bright doing rounds lately. And the classic ones have a great functional use too. 
In all, please please stock up on atleast a dozen of these under-clothing marvels and see how your wardrobe gets transformed..!!

 

Colored camisoles under sheer tops

 

Camisole under a Jacket

 

 

 That's for the staples.. Now's the turn for some do's and don'ts to enhance your wardrobe..

 

 

Do's # 1 - Bring the companion along

Having good pieces in your wardrobe are useless, unless you have its coordinates. Many a times we have good tops, but do not have the right pants or we have nice colored pants, but not anything to go with them. Either the right accessories are missing or the right shoes or any alterations need to be done. That leave us without clothes, even though we have tons of them..

So what's the next step?

A complete emsemble of the right top, bottom, sunnies, footwear, clutch, etc

 

The ideal step would be to make a list of such missing pieces and next time you go for shopping you'll know what to buy. This will not only help to complete the ensemble, but also to save money in the long run.

Do's # 2 - Stock up on Nudes

When you really can't decide what to wear, having some options in Nude colors helps a lot. Nudes have the Power of Attorney if you may say so! They are such versatile colors, that you can safely close your eyes and put them on without having to think twice if they'll look good or no.

 

These are most of the Nude colors in the Beige-Brown Family.

Apart from these, you can also bank on Navy and shades of White-Grey-Black to go with most of your outfits..

 

Below picture says it all..
The versatility of one good nude top is worth noting!!
 

  

 

Do's # 3 - Wardrobe Rehab

You try - you buy - you come home and dump!

No one likes wearing shabby looking outfits, not even you I believe. So having bought so many beautiful pieces, why not press and hang or stack them neatly. Trust me, once you do this, you'll actually start liking the pieces you already have and will not feel short of clothes in a way...

Take a look at the before and after pics of a wardrobe...

 

 

Dont's # 1 - Don't buy everything in TREND

Oh! The neon colored pants are so in this season.. What about the floral pants? And not to forget glittery shimmery gold sequined tops.. Bandage dresses, printed jackets, leather pants..

Lets stock them up....

 

NO WAYS! LET YOUR WARDROBE BREATHE..

 

You may want to have everything in trend so that you have a lot of options to wear each time you step out. But think of six-ten months down the line.. There's a great likelyhood of the trend becoming a fad and fading away soon. And what remains behind is a wardrobe full on unwanted clothes.

 

If you like a trend, own a few pieces. Fashion is fast changing, so you'll find something new in six weeks to shop for..

 

Fads of yester-years which no longer are in trend. Honestly, you wouldn't even like to touch them now

 

 

Dont's # 2 - Don't buy something that does not FIT

You may fantasize of losing a few kilos in the near future. You may be on a very strict diet or workout program. But unless you ACTUALLY don't lose, buy what fits you TODAY.

 

 

Also, everything looks good on mannequins and on models, but probably not on you. Still do not lose hope. Ask a friend or take help from a fashion consultant to know what will look good on your shape.

 

And if you manage to lose weight, you'll have all the more reason to shop for newer outfits..!!

 

Read up on my post on 'Know Your Shape' to know more about Body Shapes and what looks good on which shapes.

--- 

 

Phew... I've given you so many insights on never having to say you don't have anything to wear..

 

Balance your wardrobe, stock on classics and keep fads to minimal.. That's the mantra!

If you still feel you have nothing to wear, then do write to me on c3grooming@gmail.com

 

My personalised programmes on 'Wardrobe Rehab', 'Body-Shape Analysis' and 'Investment shopping' are sure to help you!

 

 

Exploring Hourglass Body Shape with Priyanka Chopra

Got an Hourglass Body Shape? Well, you're in luck, because it is considered the most ideal body shape! Out of the 4 silhouettes, the hourglass has the best proportions - with upper and lower half approximately in line with each other, along with a defined waist (Other 3 silhouettes being Column, Apple & Pear).

Compared to the Pear or Apple shape, you've got the curves on all the right places! Some of the visible characteristics of your body shape are:

- Your full hip-line and full bust-line are of almost the same width
- Your waist is well defined, apx 10 inches lesser than your hip/bust measurements
- When you gain weight, the fat gets evenly distributed throughout your curves

For your shape to be an hourglass, its ***very important*** that your waistline is 8" - 12" lesser than your hip/bust line. Only then will your waist get that definition..

The reason why your body shape is considered ideal is because of its proportions and defined waist. It sounds rather shapist of me to say but it's true! This is the shape fashion stylist strive to create on their models. Having the curves on the right places indicates femininity and is appealing (sells better) to the eye.

Talking of appealing to the eye, who can be considered a better eye-candy than Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra... Her deadly curves, sun-kissed skin tone and acting marvels make her one of the most versatile female actors Bollywood's got today. And remember her in Dostana..?? OMG..!! No words to describe.. Totally jaw-dropping... Take a look below...

Style Tip - The best tip for an Hourglass is to accentuate the best part of the body, i.e.the waist! Don't be afraid to highlight your curves..

Let's see how to dress your Hourglass shape, taking cues from the gorgeous Priyanka Chopra...

1. Keep your Waist as the Focal Point

Wearing outfits that snuggle around the thinnest part of your waist can really bring out your perfect proportions. Definition at the waist will leave volume on the shoulders and hips, giving the hourglass appeal. A-line dresses, pencil skirts, mid-waist pants, etc which are not very biased on the top or bottom are good choices for you.

2. Wrap it around 

Wrap tops, shirts, wrap dresses create a smooth and sexy silhouette, adding a flirty touch to your waist without making your midriff look boxy. Unless you’re short-heighted (where wrap outfits tend to hit the wrong areas of the torso), wrap outfits will compliment your figure just like hairbands do to fringe haircuts!

3. Flare it Down

You can’t go wrong with wide leg trousers. Bootcuts, flared denims, hipsters, etc seem as if they’ve been made for you! Nonetheless, if you have slender thighs, you can try on slimming bottoms. But never ever wear baggy trousers, with side flap pockets. This will only add bulk and will do no good...

4. Dresses = BFFs

Your curves were made for dresses and vice versa.. I’d like to repeat - Go for wrap dresses, back-ties & halter necks that will work for your waist. ‘Fit & flare’ are the most classic and safest options you can choose for any occasion, just like our beloved Piggy Chops! 

Avoid dresses with empire lines. Instead go for princess line which will give your body good curves..

5. My favorites – The Necklines

Being an hourglass, you carry major responsibility of doing justice to your neck and upper torso. Choosing random necklines will make you appear just like another figure trying to find its identity... Your figure is royal by birth and thus you need to choose elegant necklines like the Sweetheart Neckline, the Scoop Neck, Deep Vs, the Crossover Neck, the Grecian Neck (one shoulder) and the Off-Shoulders..

Avoid Squares, Boatnecks, Turtlenecks, Jewel necks, etc as they’re meant for other shapes that want to volumnize/de-volumnize their upper half.

6. The Magic Belt

When we talk of waist, how can we not mention Belts?!  Accentuating waist and adding belts go hand in hand. While most accessories will look great on your figure, the belts has a special place because it’s the matter of your waist.. I can just imagine a blingy belt and a matching clutch bag with a sexy LBD.

Remember not to wear the belts on your hips. They will divert the attention from your thin waist to your huge hips, as also making your figure appear out of shape..

7. Downplay your Curves

Having shared all the tips to flaunt your figure, I’ve noticed that some hourglasses do not like their curves (tiny waist and bigger busts and hips). They prefer to look thin and tall.. That's perfectly okay unless and until you don’t make a complete mess of your shape!

Just take care of the dont’s mentioned above. There will be hundreds of do’s for your figure.. So need not worry and play the game. After all, you’re among the 0.7% (only) women in the world who own this fabulous shape!

I’m eagerly waiting to hear how have you stylized your hourglass shape... Do write to me asap...

Are you a 'Sex And The City' fan!?

If you are reading this post, you're sure to have seen SATC - the movie or the serials... atleast once!

I'm a die-hard fan of SATC and after becoming a great fan of both the movies, I started watching the sitcom as well.. The back drop, story line, characters, concept.. too good..!! But the stylist in me looks for something else.. the way the SATC Barbies have been styled and portrayed... By looking at them it makes me say that "Omg, this outfits looks as if it's made just for her!"

Through this post I don't want to suggest you to copy-paste the expensive designer outfits worn by the characters. Moreover, they may/may not even suit you depending on your body type... So, how can you look as fabulous as the SATC Barbies without imitating them or shelling big bucks?

Let's read further to explore how...

1. "I LOVE YOU"

When we talk of dressing top to tip, one great tip is knowing what you love the most when it comes to fashion.. It can be anything - belts, bags, hats, jewellery, jackets, hair accessories, and most favourite of all -  SHOES!

You just need to identify that one thing that completes your look and say - "I Love You".. Make it your style statement and flaunt it! The catch here is to not to wear the same lover all the time. But pick up that category. If you feel that belts complete your look, then experiment different belts with your outfits. Make them the most attractive part of your dressing..

"Carrie's Wedding Shoes"

Like in SATC, Carrie Bradshaw loves 'SHOES'. She's head over heels for stilettoes and infact she has an entire section in her walk-in wardrobe dedicated to shoes.. So go ahead and find out your LOVER...!!



2. Think Your Outfits Through

 

Each of the outfits worn by the SATC barbies have been put together after a lot of head-scratching and extensive selection. Picking up what's in trend will not make you appear as an updated fashionist, but wearing your personality will. That's how statements like 'Its looking so awful on her' or 'It looks like its made for her' are are born..!!

Before wearing anything, just give it a thought once - Am i a reserved person? Am I outgoing? Do i like loudness/subtleness? Am I going for an important meeting? etc....

3. Personalise Your Outfits

  

The way you wear your clothes is a way of expressing who you are.. By not saying anything verbally you tend talk a lot through your clothes. Today, the world is so fast moving and there is so much competition around and everyone is so smart and knows their way out. What can give you a class apart is the way you present yourself.

In SATC, each lady was fabulously dressed in her own unique way - Samantha was sexy, upscale and all for bling, Carrie was quirky, experimental and unusual, Miranda has a tom-boyish frame and thus always managed to pull of a professional look better than any of her friends, and Charlotte.. well her preppy sweaters, pastels, feminine dresses and undiluted elegance just spoke for themselves, didn't they?

The bottom-line is.. Just wear your heart and let your clothes do the talking!

4. Old is Gold

Thrifting is one of the favourite pastimes of Carrie. Don't throw anything unusual when it comes to accessories.. (And pls do a regular detox when it comes to apparels).. Vintage necklaces, mummy's bracelets, antique clutches, a great bag, etc. A few unique pieces here and there will spice up your style instantly! Isn't this a great tip? No need to spend at all... Just save up...

5. Know Your Body

Knowing your body shape is like a basic need if you can put it in a fictitious Maslow's hierarchy of styling needs. You must be able to decide what is a fit and a misfit.. It's a foolproof recipe of great style.. What looks good on a mannequin might not look good on you and that's perfectly okay! There are tonnes and thousands of outfits and accessories available which will suit your shape and give you the definition that is much needed. Just highlight the best part of your body and let it do the talking...

(For more details on Body Shapes, check out the archives....)

6. Don't Break The Bank

Many people believe that money can buy style. But trust me on this, style comes from another place, not your wallet! If you happen to know atleast one person who cares a damm about logos on outfits, you will know what I mean.. I don't mean never to go for brands/labels, but its not important to stuff your wardrobe with them. You can match your expensive branded pieces with off-brand ones and still achieve a fabulous, stylish and upscale look. And you can achieve the same look even if you don't own a single designer trinket.

SATC also suggests that style is an expression of who you are - it's very induvidual. With these great style tips from SATC and a good dose of creativity, any lady can look as fabulous as these four on-screen SATC Barbies!

What do you think ladies? To which degree has the popular show inspired your style? Do share.. I'll be waiting...

The Return of the 'Belt'

"2012 is the year of waists and belts!"

Gone are the days when belts were worn by inserting them in the loops jeans or trousers. With the evolution of multi-fits in denims and trousers, the return of high-waist pants, invention of leggings and printed stockings, and much more in the bottom-wear category, the role of belts has also been fast changing.

And the spotlight of today's fashion are BELTS!

Belts today are available in endless colors, width, embellishments, styles and utility. Belts are a great way of drawing instant attention to your waist. While narrow belts give a delicate feminine look, wide belts take your outfit to a different level altogether. Belts in neon or eye-popping hues add glamour to your garments and belts give a definition to new entrants in fashion like the shirt-dresses or over-sized tops.

Many of you may not be comfortable or experimental in wearing a belt over your outfit - either because you have always been wearing it in the loops of your jeans or you have a tube tummy.
In either case, its time you break the myths... 


Myth #1: I cannot find a right sized jeans and so have to use a belt to adjust the waist..

Correction: You need a brand-change. There are so many brands that have revolutionized jeans - like Jealous 21 offers different hip sizes in jeans since 2008 I guess, Levis has Curve ID. What's important is which ever brand of jeans you choose, take the one that fits you perfectly on your hips and thighs. The waist can be adjusted with a couple of darts on the inner side.

With the right sized jeans, you can experiment with tops and belts.

Tuck in the top and team up a thin contrast Belt

Wear a broad Belt over a top over faded jeans

Myth #2: I have a tyre-like tummy. So belts make my tummy look worse..

Correction: If you choose a slim belt, it will emphasize your bigger tummy. And the same thing will happen if you wear belts on your lower-waist. Try an over-sized belt! An over-sized belt will compliment your bigger tummy, by taking away all the attention from the tummy to the belt. If you wear it in contrasting colors with your outfit, it will look edgy.

You may also try wearing medium-wide belts on high waist (below the empire line). They will cut your large torso horizontally, giving a balanced look.


Myth #3: I am straight up and down. Belts just highlight that my body lacks curves..

Correction: Since your body lacks curves, firstly you need to create an illusion of curves by adding details at your shoulder and hips. Try extended sleeves, boat/high necks, padded/puffed shoulders on top & jodhpurs, jumpers, high-waist pant, etc on bottom.. (Read my post on "Exploring Column Body Shape with Anushka Sharma")

A bit loose tunic dress with leggings and contrasting metallic color belt with matching bracelet & watch.

 After adding volume to your shoulders and hips, wear a belt right at the waist-line (not higher or lower than waist-line). This will define your waist beautifully and never make you look a straight, tall, rectangular pillar anymore!


Myth #4: Who wears belts in office? Belts are only meant for parties!

Correction: Who said office attire has to be boring and bland? Except for a few sectors and industries where dress-code is strictly business formals (or you prefer to wear Indian formals), you can very much add a belt to your office attire. It will give your body a shape it definitely requires and will set you apart from the rest. Either tuck the shirt in and wear a thin waist-belt or take a bit longer shirt and wear a thin belt over it. But avoid wide belts at work.

(If you need further help on how to add belts to your work-attire, you can mail on c3grooming@gmail.com).

Thin belt over formal trousers, with blouse tucked in.

Myth #5: I can't wear belts with tops or t-shirts. They look funny and take me no where..

Correction: Take a break from traditional t-shirts that end below your naval (near your jeans zipper). Either tuck them in and then add a broad belt, or indulge in long t-shirts, tunics, shirt-dresses, boy friend shirts, loose tops, etc and wear a belt over them (either thin or wide & combine leggings/tights with them). You'll be very surprised at where they take you!!

Boyfriend shirt with jeans and belt

Shirt-dress with metallic leggings and black belt

Over-sized Shirt Dress with thin Belt and Leggings

Do you have any other myths which are stopping you from wearing belts? Do tell me and I'll help you with a solution...!!

Remember, there is a belt made for every body structure, occasion and color-mood. You just need to pick the right one and set your own fashion rules. And do not accessorize too much if your wearing a belt, else you'll end up looking like an 80s star.


Do share your comments on how important belts are in your wardrobe...

Exploring Column Body Shape with Anushka Sharma

Are your body measurements about the same for your shoulders and hips with very little curve at waist and long legs?

If yes, you probably have a 'rectangle' or a 'column' body shape.

Column ladies have fairly straight up and down structure. Many women would kill for this shape, since there is no area you would want to minimise. You can get away with many clothes which other women can't wear.

Due to column body shape, your waist-to-hip ratio varies little. You do have curves, but sometimes they seem to disapper due to inappropriate dressing.

Let's take some cues on dressing your column shape from our very own Bollywood newbie - Anushka Sharma.

Ms. Shruti Kakkar from Band Baaja Baarat aka Anushka Sharma has rocked the industry with her performance in the movie. The crude but cute Delhi girl is shown to be very enthu about setting up her own business, making jugaads and finally falling for Bitto Sharma aka Ranveer Singh. She's got it in her DNA and her looks say so too... Let's see how this model-turned-actor manages to get away with her Column Body with tonnes of compliments...

Column Shape Style Tip - Columns are fairly straight up and down; there’s no main area you want to minimise. However you may crave more curves – an illusion that can be easily created with the right clothing..

1. Illusion of Curves

Your body lack curves to a very great extent. You do not have extra fat, but some fat is required to give your body a shape or a definition it needs. This can be done by creating an illusion of curves on your body. Volumnize your upper and lower halves and clinch at the middle. An hourglass shape can thus be easily created on your body. Look at Anushka's appearance in the picture below. I bet you'll not be able to make out that she has a Column body...!!

2. Adding Volumn above the Waist

Since your're a column, we can assume to some extent that you may have a small bust too. Start with choosing the right bra that can add a bit of volume. Push-ups or corsets will create beautiful curves.

Next, add detailing to the topwear with ruffles, pleates, bows, embellishments, etc. Alternatively, you can also layer your topwear by using shrugs and crop tops (Only if you are not very tall. Else it'll elongate your torso). Use horizontal stripes and if you're planning to wear a jacket, keep it till the hip-line with a belt clinching at the waist..

Avoid baggy tops while adding volume, since they may end up giving you no shape or definition at the waist..

3. Rise High with High Necks

High necks create an illusion of more volumn on the top. Experiment with Turtle Necks, Bateau (Boat) Necks, Polo Necks, Jewel Necks, etc. Also, since you have small busts, you can very well carry Strapless, Racer Back Vests, Spaghetti Straps and Halter Necks..

Avoid wearing wide necks as they may make you look all the more skinny. If you like an open neck top too much to resist, then team it up with bib-necklaces or wear a camisole underneath. Nevertheless, if your busts are medium sized, you can play around with deeper / wider necklines, just like Anushka does..

4. Adding Volume below the Waist

Columns are very leggy.. They're tall and have great legs! Show them off in outfits thats compliment your length below the waist. Short skirts, A-line skirts, pin-tucks and pleated skirts will give your the volume you need down there. Jumpsuits will also look very playful and peppy.. Talking of pants, skinny jeans were made for you it seems!! Linen trouser will look very elegant on you.

Beware of flared pants and cargos. They will unbalance your body and/or make you look more boyish. Avoid low-rise trousers too, as they will elongate your upper torso. Maxis and high-waist pants may be in trend, but if your tall, it's better to avoid them..

5. Wanna look Girly? Dresses are on your way...

Most dresses will look great on your straight frame. Aim to create more curves by playing around with sleeves, ruffles, frills and necklines. Bias cut dresses and Shift dresses will work wonders, as also Halter necks, Strapless and Off-Shoulder dresses.

Avoid sheath, body hugging and straight dresses as they may highlight your lack of curves. Dropped waists and empire lines will broaden your upper or lower torse (respectively) unless you play around with large and small prints or color-blocking.

6. Belts @ Rescue!

When we talk of defining waist, belts work like darts hitting the centre of the board.. Right on target! Broad belts are totally in vogue. They will divide your vertically large torso without making it too obvious. Contrasting belts will attract attention to your 'illusion-created' waist and give a curvy appeal to the straight figure.

Are you a fan of Anushka Sharma? Did you get inspired by her way of layering her Column Body?? Well, I totally am!!

Do share your tried and tested ways of dressing your Column Body.. I'll be waiting... :)