10 Necessities of Pregnancy Fashion

Don’t want to look like a frump your entire pregnancy? Check out these ten fashion necessities for all pregnant mamas to get your maternity style into gear!

Being pregnant doesn’t mean that you have to give up on your great fashion sense (or aspiring great fashion sense, if you’re like me). Today, there are so many companies catering to hip pregnant mamas that finding the right pieces to create a pregnant fashionista’s wardrobe is easy, or easier than it was before. Because most moms don’t have thousands of dollars to spare on fashion that will be, in a sense, out of fashion within nine months, the key to buying maternity is buying the necessities and adding on inessentials as time and budget permit.

Here you’ll find 10 pregnancy fashion necessities that are required (well, maybe “required” is too strong a word) of all hip (and wanna be hip) pregnant mamas.

  1. A skinny belt. Skinny belts, skinny belts, what ever would I do with a skinny belt?” Well, let me tell you. Skinny belts are great accessories to add to any loose fitting shirt or dress to attenuate the belly and hide the, well, other things. The perfect skinny belt is one that is skinny enough to fit right below your breast bone and right above your belly.
  2. A little black dress. Who says that you can’t be sexy during pregnancy? Who? A little black dress is a perfect evening accessory for any hip pregnant mama. Longer black dresses are great for evening, black tie affairs, and evening weddings, while shorter black dresses are great for daytime lunch dates, daytime weddings, etc.
  3. A boyfriend style shirt (or a shirt from your husband’s closet). Preferably in a solid white or another neutral color, a boyfriend shirt paired with a skinny, high waisted belt does much to attenuate the belly. It also is, and perhaps most importantly, extremely comfortable and versatile, able to be paired with a black pair of leggings, skinny pants, or a loose fitting trouser jean.
  4. Leggings or skinny pants. Leggings and skinny pants are great because they can so easily be dressed up or down depending on the other items that they are paired with.
  5. A classic maxi dress. Particularly if you happen to be pregnant during the summer months, a maxi dress with an empire waist is a must have in your fashion arsenal. And while solid colored dresses are typically more versatile, prints (stripes or polka dots or animal prints) can also be fun and dressed up or down depending on the pair of shoes and jewelry that they are paired with.
  6. A pair of wedges. Wedges truly are the best of two worlds, aren’t they? So often, new pregnant moms assume that they must wear flats throughout their pregnancy. But, that’s just wrong…and….boring. Wedges are a perfectly safe option for you to wear throughout your pregnancy for dressier occasions and for nights on town. For the summer pregnant gals, choose a sexy pair of sandal wedges. For the winter pregnant gals, choose a sleek pair of closed toe boot wedges.
  7. A pair (or two) of dark denim, trouser maternity jeans. H&M, Gap, and a Pea in the Pod all have great options of maternity jeans for moms to be. As a recommendation, always buy maternity jeans in person (i.e., not online) so that you can try them on before you buy them.
  8. A fun tee. T-shirts are not only comfortable but a great compliment to your pregnancy wardrobe. While there are plenty of fun, mama to be shirts on the market, it’s just as good (and likely cheaper) to buy plain, fitted solid colored T’s.
  9. A fun cover-up. Whether a sweater, leather jacket, or wrap, cover-ups are very, very necessary. The option that you choose should depend on the climate in which you live and how you plan to make use of the cover-up (i.e., for all day coverage, etc.).
  10. Great undergarments. Yes, ladies, when you’re pregnant one of your most important fashion accessories can not (or should not) be seen by much of the world. Pregnancy will change much of your body, your breasts, your hips, and buttocks. To remain comfortable throughout your pregnancy and looking good in all of your clothes, invest in some great undergarments that fit you throughout ALL stages of your pregnancy.

Have Fun with Your Maternity Wardrobe!

Most of all have fun with your maternity wardrobe. Sure, your pregnancy is to last only nine or ten months of your life, but why not have fun in those months and enjoy your new shape? Your only pregnant once (or, at least at a time), so live it up!

: Tips & Info, Women's Fashion

Golf Attire for Women

Golf, traditionally a gentleman’s game, has fully welcomed women over the past couple of decades. Women now have their own place on the green with a LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association) group that competes professionally, as well as many women’s-only golf clubs. Women also play alongside men in coed clubs and competitions. Equally important to the skills that a lady brings to the playing field is the attire she chooses to wear. Women’s golf attire is available in both traditional and more modern colors and styles. It is also found in both standard and plus sizes.

Traditional Attire

Traditional women’s attire includes styles that are feminine versions of traditional men’s golf wear. Some traditional styles include:

Shirts

Tradtiional women’s golf shirts are collared polo shirts. Women’s polo shirts are cut to suit a woman’s body and are shorter in length than men’s shirts, although it is still common for women to tuck these shirts in. Cotton or cotton blends in soft colors are acceptable.

Jackets

Traditional women’s golf jackets are light and waterproof. The jackets are not too baggy or oversized, yet still provide enough wiggle room for a woman to play well. In lieu of a jacket, a woman may substitute a sweater over her collared polo shirt.

Shorts and Pants

It is normal for a woman to wear golf shorts, but the shorts are often about knee-length and offer a relaxed, yet fitted cut through the hips and thighs. Traditional women’s golf shorts must not be too revealing or too tight. Common colors include khaki, black or brown cotton blends. Denim is not an appropriate fabric for the golf course.

Shoes

It is customary for ladies golf shoes to be white or two-toned with black or brown accents, such as wingtips. Soft cleats are also common to provide better traction on the green. Although this is the standard style, sportier tennis shoes styles are also acceptable.

Modern Attire

As more women enter the world of golf, expect to see more flexible golf attire styles enter the market. The ever-changing fashion moods of women simply demand more options. In addition, newer styles allow women an opportunity to identify themselves further as individuals within the sport.

Shirts

Modern women’s golf shirts are now available in brighter colors and small patterns, such as stripes, argyle and plaid. Classic lines and form-fitting cuts are offered in collared and collar-less styles, as well as fine-gauge knit sweaters. Additional options are available in button-up, sleeveless and pin-tuck styles. Modern women’s golf shirts really have a color, shape and style for almost every woman’s discriminating taste – all while remaining true to the classy demands of the golf course.

Shorts, Pants and Skirts

New styles for ladies shorts and pants come in prints and a variety of bright and bold colors. Gone are the days of drab khakis-only dress. Form-fitting relaxed fits are still ideal, as well as knee-length shorts inseams. However, ladies now have capri pants, skirt and skort options as well. Skirts should hit below mid-thigh, roughly 2-3 inches above the knee, but also come in many colors and small patterns.

Shoes

Traditional women’s golf shoes are still available, but are more difficult to find. Athletic brand golf shoes are much more main-stream. Nike, Adidas, Puma and even Ecco all have lines of golf shoes. These tend to be more comfortable and easier to play in. Modern golf shoes are available in many colors, fabrics and styles. Soft cleats still accompany some shoes, but not all. Women can also choose sleek Mary Janes or open-toed golf sandals.

: Tips & Info, Women's Fashion

5 Tips First Date Fashion For Men

Let’s face it: Women love clothes. Why else are they constantly shopping and complimenting their girlfriends on that incredible new dress or pair of pumps? And while you may be wondering, “What does this have to do with me?” I’ll tell you: More and more, women are expecting — even demanding — that the men they date look as good as they do. In other words, showing up at a swanky gallery opening in your college hoodie and lucky sneakers may make that first date your last.

But passing their scrutinizing standards isn’t as hard as you think… nor does it involve blowing your bank account on a whole new wardrobe. Just keep these simple tips from fashion experts in mind to show women you do indeed have a clue when it comes to style.

Tip #1: Whatever you do, don’t wear khakis
To many men, khakis may seem like the perfect first-date standby, being that they are dressier than jeans but more casual than dress pants. But experts adamantly stress men should avoid wearing them on dates. “Khakis scream ‘casual workplace,’” explains Bruce Pask, style director of the men’s fashion magazine, Cargo. “They just don’t seem sexy.” Jeans, on the other hand, are — and they’re perfectly acceptable these days in nearly any dating scenario (barring a really fancy restaurant with a dress code). Just be sure to stick to the basic dark pair of jeans — no matter how much you paid for the overly distressed, hole-riddled, “rumpled,” bleached, faded or torn ones.

Tip #2: Give the striped dress shirt a rest
When it comes to impressing a woman, standing out from the crowd can be key — and on that front, nothing kills your chances quite like a striped dress shirt. Look around at a coffeehouse or restaurant. Aren’t stripes visible everywhere? That’s why you’ll do much better wearing a shirt with a subtler pattern. “Open it up at the neck and lose the tie, which can make a guy look a bit choked up,” says Pask. A nice polo shirt is a more casual alternative that also works well under a blazer. And last but not least, your shirt should be tucked in. “A shirt halfway in, halfway out is a big pet peeve of mine,” says Kelly Rae, fashion and grooming director of Stuff magazine. “I like a guy who knows to tuck it in.”

Tip #3: A little color goes a long way
Unless you’re heading out to meet an emo chick, dressing all in black is a bit morose. “And don’t wear beige,” says Rae. “Neutral colors are boring.” On the other end of the spectrum, too much flash could be a glaring distraction, so don’t try to stand out with a hot pink T-shirt, fire-engine red sweater, or shirt covered in some designer logo. A jewel-toned sweater (maroon, forest green, cobalt blue, etc.) over a white dress shirt will make an attractive, not-too-staid but not-too-flashy statement.

Tip #4: Pay attention to your footwear
Women, as you well know, are shoe-obsessed and will immediately take note of what you’ve decided to step out in this evening. The good news? Barring “work shoes” (like wingtips or loafers), any footwear — even sneakers — can look fine, especially with jeans. Boots are also appropriate; Pask says anything from motorcycle boots to a more refined version are fine. Now, the bad news: You’d better make sure those shoes look great. Polish them, and remove any scuff marks or crud that’s collected on the sides or in your soles. A man who maintains his shoes can be trusted to be detail-oriented in other areas of his life, from his home to a new relationship.

Tip #5: Don’t forget the details
Shirt, check; jeans, check; shoes, check… think you’re in the clear? Not quite, say our experts. Paying attention to the particulars is what will really convince a gal you’re a cut above the average. “What you wear should speak to your individuality,” says Rae. “If you’re wearing a shirt with French cuffs, wear interesting cufflinks.” And don’t overlook your socks. “White gym socks belong at the gym,” says Rae. “Anything with a pattern can be fun.” She suggests looking for something with a design, like hearts or diamonds: “If he can pull the right socks off, he’s a winner.”

: Men's Fashion

The Etiquette Of Male Fashion

It’s important to understand basic male fashion etiquette rules to ensure that you’re properly dressed for any occasion, whether it’s work or play.

While modern day dress rules have greatly relaxed from the times when men and women had strict dress codes that ruled everything from how they dressed at home to how they dressed when they went out (including daytime vs. nighttime attire), there are still those who know that how you dress has a great bearing on how others view you. First impressions do count a great deal, so knowing some male fashion etiquette will help you, especially if you’re trying to advance in the professional arena.

Basic Male Fashion Rules

What does every man need to know when it comes to fashion? Here are a few guidelines that will cover most situations. However, for some social occasions, the hosts may allow you some leeway (and will hopefully address any dress code confusion on the invitation):

Formal and Professional

  • Black tie: Black tie is formal wear. Most men only get to wear black tie attire rarely, usually for a wedding or specific formal occasion. If your presence is requested at a black tie event, do the hosts and yourself a favor and show up in black tie clothing that adheres to the dress rules. This includes a black tuxedo (white dinner jackets are sometimes permissable), black shoes, a white shirt with pleated or ribbed front, a cummerbund and bowtie. Tuxes can be easily rented from menswear shops, especially those that cater to the prom and wedding market.
  • Professional attire: In a conservative business environment, you’re expected to wear a suit, tie and complementary accessories. Don’t feel confined to one or two colors. If you’re afraid to be adventurous, consult with a menswear expert or look through men’s magazines for fashion advice. While a crisp white dress shirt, dark suit and plain tie will get you through the workday, so will a pink shirt (men no longer have to fear pink) paired with a charcoal or navy blue suit. A matching pocket square is a small accessory, but packs a lot of panache.

Casual and Accessories

  • Hats: Although baseball caps seem to have become de rigueur for everyone from men and women to children, there are places where it’s better to remove your cap (or any type of hat) before you enter the building. While most men seem to understand that a fine restaurant isn’t the place to wear a sports cap, a lot of guys still eat in any kind of dining establishment with hats planted firmly on their heads. Men should always remove their hats before entering a building. Just because it’s no longer commonplace to tip your hat to a lady, you should still observe this basic etiquette rule, even if you’re overdue for a haircut and you don’t want anyone to know.
  • Casual shoes: Flip flops have their place, which is usually a boardwalk or the beach. While sneakers are incredibly easy to slip into, they don’t belong in the workplace (unless you work at an athletic store or summer camp). Guys have many more options than they sometimes think when it comes to footwear; finding a nice, casual pair of shoes that aren’t sneakers or flip flops is easier than you think. Consider loafers, boat shoes or slip on dress shoes.
  • T shirts: No longer exclusively known as undershirts, tees are as ubiquitous as jeans in casual wear, but even this beloved comfortable shirt has its limits. T-shirts are acceptable when the dress code is extremely casual, but isn’t presentable for the office environment.
  • Jeans: Anytime a dress code calls for dressy casual or above, leave the jeans at home. It doesn’t matter if you wear a dress shirt and nice shoes with it. Jeans are not dressy items.

Dressing Smart

It can be quite uncomfortable being the most underdressed person in a room. If you have any doubts about what to wear when, ask fashion-savvy friends, girlfriends, wives, partners or consult with menswear experts. There’s no reason you have to wonder what’s appropriate to wear in various settings – and once you get some style knowhow under your belt, you’ll be properly dressed for any occasion.

: Men's Fashion

Women’s Fashion Tips: Dress Right As Your Type

So you’ve heard this a zillion times but it’s actually what really it takes to look as smashing as a super model. And the clichéd phrase is “Dress right for your type.” Just what exactly it means literally is known by all but life would be much easier if it were spelt out. Finally, here it is your complete handbook to being fashionably dressed.

  • Figure out your body type: once you know what body type you are you can read tips exactly for your kind.
  • Follow tips specific to your size (weight and height) and age as well.

ALL YOU WANTED TO KNOW (FOR ALL WOMEN)

  • Always try to wear free flowing fabrics in one tone to achieve a long and slim look. Try fabrics like chiffon or georgette for dresses.
  • Please wear only your size. Oversized clothes never have or will make look anyone any good. Stay away from anything that’s baggy or exaggerated as far as size goes no matter how comfortable.
  • Be careful while adding on accessories. Never add on anything just for heck of it. Your accessories speak more about you than your clothes do. So watch out there.
  • Make sure whatever jeweler you wear blends well with your ensemble.
  • Wear belts only if you have an extremely thin waist. (I know this is a hard one.)
  • Wear clothes you are comfortable in and that reflect your personality. You’ll undoubtedly look your best in them.
  • Cleverly accessorize your look by adding a scarf or a stole for the added effect.
  • Before picking up your clothes read the wash care and after care instructions carefully. Never buy on an impulse something that might cost you more than its cost for maintenance.
  • Invest in a basic wardrobe, shoes, and bags. Mix and match the rest of the things picked up every season or even stuff picked up from flea markets.
  • Form your own style statements and avoid following fashion trends blindly. Always have a back-up classic wardrobe and experiment with new things only to an extent.

BODY TYPE SPECIFIC FASHION TIPS

Fashion tips for petite women:

  • If you’ve a short neck avoid wearing high collared clothes. Avoid short necklaces too. To elongate your neck, wear a deep neck and a long necklace that falls few inches above your navel.
  • Wearing shoes with strings will make you appear even shorter. Avoid that at all costs. Wearing an open shoe with nothing at the ankle, just a strap to hold the toes together will make your legs look longer.
  • Do not wear over all prints. They’ll make you thinner. Wear prints that have something here or there and preferably over your figure’s assets (like well shapes abs, tones arms, etc) to catch more attention in that area.
  • Add a belt or a scarf to your skirt or pants that hangs downward toward your legs. It will add height to them.
  • Wear contrasting colors and fitted lines to flatter your figure.

Fashion tips for tall women:

  • You can indulge in everything to be avoided by petite women. And stay away from all suggestions made to them.
  • To cut height around your waist area wear your tops over pants or skirts.
  • Big belts will work fine for you just don’t wear them too tight.
  • Avoid very short skirts. They’ll show off your never-ending legs and will add height.
  • Similarly very long skirts will make your taller.

Fashion tips for pear-shaped women (heavy on the lower body):

  • Vertical lines will definitely slim you down.
  • Wear a lighter color on top and a really dark shade on your lower body. This way the light colored top catches more attention and your dark lower remains unnoticed.
  • Remember to make your bottom smaller you can add broadness to your upper body to make your look more proportionate and thinner down below. E.g.: wear dresses or tops with small soft shoulder pads.
  • Avoid skirts that are tapered. Free flowing a-line skirts and dresses are the key to camouflage saddlebags.

Fashion tips for apple-shaped women (heavy on the top):

  • Avoid tops with a lot of detailing and ruffling or rouching. Keep it simple and clean with soft flowing fabrics.
  • Do not wear very tight or clingy synthetic tops that enhance your problematic areas.
  • Go for light colors for you lowers and wear darker shades on top.
  • Use detailing, pleating, etc on your skirt or pant to attract attention there.
  • V-necks will make your bosoms look smaller.
  • Wear a wrap top to cover your stomach. Using layering in the same color and fabric here will have a slimming effect.
  • Under no circumstances wear anything shoulder padded. Wear thin and light materials on top only.

Now whether you are tall or small, fat, or thin on top or bottom you know the basics to follow and dress right for your type. Start experimenting, suit your personal needs, and make new rules that work even better. Happy shopping!

: Women's Fashion
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