Formality

Formal dresses are so unique. The occasion in which we wear them varies greatly, and so do our individual styles, tastes and attitudes, that I find it fascinating to see what some people choose and prefer when it comes to dressing formally.

Some simply hate the idea of dressing up and wish to only blend in...



...others prefer to stay safe and wear that which is in fashion or something black.


Picking to wear your favorite color and a flattering figure style is always a safe route...


But there has to be something said about individuality and personal flair, for those who wish to be daring...


...and Bold!



Me..I prefer the classic and graceful look...


Still so elegant.

(I used to love playing "dress up" as a girl! Perhaps, I'm still that little girl at heart.)

Fall Collection Preview

You know, most famous designers put together a collection for two seasons of the year, a spring season collection to kick off the year, and a fall collection to end the year and prepare for the colder weather. Well, I've decided to put together my own fall collection if you will.
A collection has many similar features and design details that echo upcoming trends for a season. Large clothing manufacturing companies attend these fashion shows and duplicate the similar trends, colors, styles and mass create for our own use. We find these clothing choices in K.Mart, JC Penny, Dillards, Ross, TJ Maxx, Walmart...you get the idea.
My collection is inspired by these upcoming trends, colors, and styles, however, I take the drastic styles and put them together in a more comfortable way that would suit an every day regular woman...not some runway model.

Up and coming trends to look for: Calf-length skirts, masculine lines and structures, tuxedo style ruffles and colars, plaid fabircs, mis-matched patterns, bright colored pants of any length, bold stripes.



What fashion trends do you notice in this design?



Notice the calf-length skirt and tuxedo ruffles. I think they are a perfect match.


Is this outfit something you would wear? Let me know what you think.

Wedding Bells

One thing I love to design are wedding dresses. I love the "bell" shaped dresses because they create such a beautiful line. They can draw in and add emphasis at your waist and then flow out and downwards creating an elegant and flattering look. I have designed several different wedding dress styles, but these two are my favorite in the "bell" style.


If you or anyone you know would like a custom designed wedding dress. I have a wonderful seamstress on hand with experience in wedding dress making and would love to sit down with you and design your perfect dress! Custom wedding dresses are as unique as the bride! We take into consideration many elements, including: your body type, your personality, the type of wedding you want, and your style and personal "flair."


If this is your direction, don't look elsewhere for a designer! I'd be honored to help create your dream dress.

Taking You Back

Just a little 80's fun for you to check out! I found these sketches in my folder and thought they were pretty awesome. And yes, I can draw faces on my models...sometimes. I drew these for my little sister's high school project a while ago. She was doing a report on the 1980's, so I sketched a few memorable 80's fashions...you know..."totally tubular" clothing choices for a well rounded woman of the 80's.



Makes me want to attend an aerobics class!


Sketch inspired by Princess Di. She was certainly a fashion icon for the world during this time.


Rock and Roll Dude!

Let's Get Down to BUSINESS

Are you out there in the business world? Would you like to have others see a reflection of who you are right when they meet you? Well, where there's a will, there's a way!
Let's say you're meeting for a job interview, and you don't know what to wear, don't worry, I've been there before too. It's always important to dress in an outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable while reflecting a professional attitude mixed with boldness, responsibility, hard work...and everything else you want your future employer to know about you.
Don't panic! First find suit pieces that go well with your body type. Choose neutral colored 2 piece suits that you can mix and match tops and bottoms with, keeping in mind the different seasons as well and being able to layer well is also important.
Next find tops that can go with sweaters, cardigans, jackets as well as different colored bottoms that you can mix and match. Look for tops that have a professional look: collars, neck ruffles, button down, flowy silk tops that can be tucked in, etc. Try and stick with less pattern for shirts. After you find tops to mix and match, look for shoes and accessories to add color and boldness and individuality. Pieces such as scarves, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, broaches, etc are great ways to add to your outfit. You can also be bold with tights, stockings, and boots. These items are all essential to creating a lasting impression and harmony to your look.
Once you put a business outfit on that fits your body type, feels comfortable, has individuality and makes you feel confident, you will be able to take on the world!



I have a wonderful sister, who is a hard working lady! She currently works for Mike Lee, US Senator. She and I took a little shopping trip not too long ago to put together professional pieces that she can wear to work. She was very hesitant and quite anxious as we started our search, but I'm happy to say, she currently enjoys her professional wear and she's doing a great job mixing and matching and putting together fun pieces, that don't say, "Hi, I'm a boring, everyday suit.." but, "Hey, look at me, I'm bold, exciting, and professional!" I'm proud of ya, Sis!



I love the bold tights.



Another, "vest" look can also be used in a professional atmosphere.




Don't be afraid, be bold! And good luck!

VESTness

A good vest with any simple outfit can help create a focal point. I love this vest coupled with the wrap waist belt. Vests can add covering to the stomach area of the body and with the belt pulling it in at your waist (the smallest part) it can help create a horizontal line affect adding emphasis to your smallest point and also helping your legs appear longer with that contrast. Who wouldn't like that?

Tip: When looking for a suitable belt to add to this type of outfit, make sure you keep in mind your torso length. If you have a longer torso, a wide/thicker belt is more suitable and flattering. If however, like me, your torso isn't as long, choose a thinner width belt to compliment your body.



I have yet to find a vest just like the one pictured here. I love that it adds length to your torso, and also hides the sides of your body, and will, as a result, compliment any body type. If you see something out there like this...I'd love to know!



Vests are great for any season. For the summer choose something light and flowy. For colder seasons maybe something with more texture and warmth will be suitable. Play around with a vest and belt and see if it doesn't flatter your figure!

Dress Success

I love whimsical dresses. I've always been a fan of dresses with less bulk, less patern, and less fabric (not to mean immodest in any way)..but, with a dress, less is more. Owning a basic dress with chifon and/or cotton fabrics is an important staple to every closet. You can take a simple dress, add a cardigan and BAM!...you create texture, color, individuality and harmony.