Five Fashion Faux-Pas

From socks with sandals to jeans that give you muffin top, we all have our list of pet-peeves when it comes to fashion. It was hard to narrow it down, but here are some of our biggest fashion don'ts.

White undergarments with white clothes: It seems logical to match your bra and skivvies to your blouse or pants, but the truth is that white under white is too visible. Instead, opt for nude colored intimates to avoid the obvious lines.

Panty Lines: We've heard so many women say that thongs are just not comfortable. They were created to leave a more seamless impression on those walking behind you and we're here to tell you that there are plenty of comfy ones out there; and we urge you to try them out. Victoria's Secret has a wide selection of seamless, cotton panties that won't leave a bad impression on those behind you.

Running shoes with dress clothes: This may have been acceptable back in the '90s, but in today's fashion-conscious world, you shouldn't be able to run in the same shoes you would wear to the office. If comfort is an issue, find a cute pair of flats to wear to work instead of pumps.

Tights under a short dress: Wearing tights with a short dress doesn't leave much to the imagination. A good rule of thumb - tights are not a replacement for pants. If you wouldn't wear the top with bare legs, you shouldn't wear it with tights either. Tights are a fun way to accessorize an outfit or to keep warm without having to wear pants - they are not meant to camouflage your rear.

High-water pants: If your pant hem is rubbing on your ankle bone, you're pants are probably too short. Typically, pants should come down to just above the floor. You don't want to trip on them, but you don't want to show the top of your shoe either.

We'd love to hear what your biggest fashion faux-pas are so please leave a comment for us or email us at stylemuseinfo@gmail.com

Boots… the Must-have Always Classy Accessory

Anyone that knows us knows that we are obsessed with boots! There is just something about the feeling of putting on a really great pair of boots that gives you a little extra strut in your step. Whether it’s a fabulous pair of black leather boots with a great buckle embellishment or your worn in cowboy boots with jeans and a white tee, the look is always sexy and effortless. Personally we LOVE putting boots over jeans. While we’ve had some men admit their confusion on this fashion trend we just can’t get enough of it. Another look that has been our go-to this winter for all types of events including luncheons, the theatre, dinners out after work is the always sophisticated sweater-dress, tights, and boots. Not only does this look keep you fairly warm (fashion can be practical!) but it is feminine and another unique way to show the whole boot. Looking for somewhere to find reasonably priced boots? DSW has done the trick this season for Style Muse (namely the most amazing pair of gray suede boots!).

SM Tip of the Week | Oversized Outerwear

In these chilly days you are probably staring at that jacket in your closet that you bought on a whim because the price was too good to pass up but come to find out it just never fits right. Don't have time to run to the tailor right away? Go ahead and throw a fabulous belt on to give yourself some shape and strut out the door! 

Sweet Dreams

Alright ladies. The time has come to discuss sleepwear. We’re not talking about anything fancy here, just good old fashioned pajamas.

We spend all day trying to look our best, yet when it comes to bedtime, we gladly throw on our high water flannel pants and our over-sized, bleach-stained tee from the kickball team we were on 4 years ago. And the excuse of “I’m single so I don’t need to impress anyone at bedtime” doesn't work. Don’t forget that you’re dressing for yourself above all, and you deserve to feel beautiful (whether you’re sleeping or not).

Here are a few quick steps to take to update your pajama drawer:

• Set aside any stained clothing for cleaning the house, and never ever wear them otherwise.

• Any over-sized pajamas should be donated to charity.

• Figure out which pieces make you feel beautiful and wear them often.

• Take a trip to the store for new outfits you can feel glamorous in (see recommended retailers below).

• Look for pieces with fun and flattering embellishment.

• In the summertime, try boy shorts and a cute tee. When it’s a little cooler out, try a fitted pant and long sleeved shirt set.

• Invest in an above-the-knee length robe in a thinner material (no more over-sized pastel colored fleece robes please).

A good rule of thumb according to a Style Muse male acquaintance is, “You shouldn’t be embarrassed to answer the door in your P.J.s.” Just remember, if you’re wearing the boy shorts, cover up before you answer the door!

Here are a few great retailers to check out when P.J. shopping:

• P.J. Salvage has a great selection of fun animal print intimates to choose from.

• Macy's is stocking some great basics, and they frequently go on sale. Be cautious of the boxy sets though. Although the patterns are cute, they don’t flatter anyone.

• Gap Body is a great resource for fun and comfy P.J.s and robes at fabulous prices.
  

Need help updating your nighttime attire? Contact us at stylemuseinfo@gmail.com. Sweet dreams!

Can’t Get Enough of Headbands!

So if any of you are fans of Gossip Girl then we are sure you’ve probably come across the same headband obsession that we have. The great thing about a headband is that it can add so much to a look without spending very much money. What we love is that they are versatile in types, level of dressiness, materials, etc to go with any occasion. We recommend one with a sparkle of gemstones or gold for a fun night out. For the day look think a simple material covered, simple, or tortoiseshell version that pulls the outfit together. One of our favorite things to do is take those long necklaces that everyone has been into recently, wrap that around as a headband and pin it into place. Talk about multi-use!

Let’s talk hairstyle. We love to put a headband in with sleek, straight, hair for a polished look. Also, think romantic waves with a feminine headband for date night out. Our go-to look for when you’re in a rush is to pull your hair back into pony-tail or bun, tease at the crown and throw on a headband. That gives you an instant put-together look.

A few places to pick up fashionable and affordable headbands include:

• Sale time at JCrew

• Forever21

• Target

Try one out both at work and out on the town and see that little extra feeling of your inner Style Muse that it brings out. If you want some tips on great headbands we’ve seen lately or how to do your hair with them email us at stylemuseinfo@gmail.com

New Years Resolution

Happy New Year old friends and new! There’s nothing wrong with partying like it’s 1999, but if you’re still wearing the same outfit, it’s time to get serious about your New Years resolution. Repeat after us: In 2009, I will commit to bringing out my inner Style Muse by dressing to make myself feel beautiful!

Even if your clothing is current, it’s always good to remember to make sure you’re wearing things that make you feel good and compliment your style. With 365 days ahead, there’s plenty of time to update your wardrobe. Here are a few simple steps to get you started:

• If you haven’t worn it in the last year, please donate it to someone who will (Dress For Success and Goodwill are a few of our favorites)

• Anything that is worn out, faded or tattered should be replaced with newer versions

• Visit a tailor to see if any ill-fitting pieces can be altered to flatter your shape

• Fill in the gaps with a girls-day-out at the mall

We’d love to hear about your New Years resolutions so feel free to leave a comment! If updating your wardrobe seems like a daunting task, we're here to help - just email us at stylemuseinfo@gmail.com.

Looking forward to a fabulous 2009!

SM Tip of the Week | Jeans

Asking Santa to update your jeans for 2009? For a never let you down, go-to look put a dark wash, no bleaching, trouser-fit pair on your list. This look can be great for a night out or dressed up for Friday at the office. Enjoy!