You: “JZ, do I have to?
JZ: “Just give it a try. Once. Lots of women do it.”
You: “But it feels dishonest. Like I am leading a double life. Living one way while preaching something totally different.”
JZ: “Do you know the quote from Abolitionist, Frederick Douglass ’If there is no struggle, there is no progress?’” Or Kirk Franklin? ”The reason your windshield is larger than your rear view mirror is because where you’re going, is greater than where you’ve been.”
You: “Uh? JZ, what is up with you? First, you’re blabbing about ‘Losin Your Little Charlie’, now this. You had better find some more freelance event work soon. You’re starting to worry me.”
JZ: “Ok. Ok. I’m just trying to say that you have to start living the life you want, not the one you have, are unhappy with, but are going to stick with ’cause it’s the easiest thing to do.
You: “Alright. Once. Just once. And it better be earth-shattering!”
You too? Think you can’t wear belts?. Think again.
(What did you think I was talking about?)
Let’s face it. Wearing a belt can be challenging, especially when you’re shy about drawing attention to your waistline. On the other hand, belts have the potential to add a completely new dimension to your wardrobe: helping you “fake” a waist where none is found.
Not too long ago, Macy’s asked me to Style/Host their ultimate fashion face-off, Macy’s Find Your Magic Fashion Event. Contestants were chosen to join me onstage and asked to create a head-to-toe look for a special occasion — from a dream job interview to a night out with the girls — all showcased by our “models”. I did the same, all the while sharing my fashion do’s and dont’s and top style tips for the season. And the tip that got the biggest response? That’s right, ”fakin it”!
Look Clean-Cut by Cinching Your Waist. It’s amazing how a simple belt can totally modify an outfit. With the quick closing of a buckle, almost anything you wear is instantly pulled together, and you suddenly look slimmer. And I’m not just talking about the basic leather piece used to hold up pants (although those are great to have, too!). If a wide-cut piece like a sash or cincher emphasize your waist, it’ll do the trick.
Cinch in the Right Place. Elie Tahari’s spring/summer line http://www.elietahari.com/womens-designer-clothing/women,default,sc.html exemplifies just how flattering ”fakin it” can be. Wearing a belt on your true waist, (as opposed to the top of your hips) will create a feminine hourglass silhouette.
Show Off New Trends – Subtly. Pick a thin belt in a complimenting color to a shift or pant suit, and get a touch of the latest style without buying a whole new outfit. Easy, and less expensive!
Look at Belts in a New Light. When worn out of the belt loops of your pants,a belt brings new definition to all figure types. A low-slung belt over jeans or a jacket can be cool and casual. (Here’s a tip-if you fall within the petite category, opt for a thin, dainty belt, and fasten it around your waist. If you have curves, choose a simple style, and loosely fasten more hourglass.)
Bottom line..Think Outside the Loops.
If you’ve never thought of yourself as a belt person, I urge you to reconsider. They can add extra polish to an outfit, define the waistline as needed, provide textural interest, and even add a bit of edge. But, you’ve gotta be open to the possibilities (of yes, maybe, even fakin’ it!)
Class dismissed!!!
xoxoxoxxo JZ
p.s. How do you use a belt to flatter your figure? Any pix or ideas you want to share with all of us? Email me on what accessories you use to slim down/ work an outfit. We’ll chat and I will post your ideas/comments/ pix (with your permission, of course!)
Related articles
- Wardrobe Oxygen: Dress Like Michelle Obama by Styling with Belts (savings.com)
- Runway to Real Life: 7 Gorgeous Belts to Wear Right Now (ecosalon.com)
Love it!!
Great blog!