by Jane Diane Matthews on June 1, 2010
Memorial weekend 2010 has come to a close and that means the official swimsuit season has begun. There is nothing like jumping in the ocean or a swimming pool when it is beastly hot. If you are anxiously waiting to make a big splash but are still struggling to find a swimsuit perfect for your pear shaped figure then Newport News’ bathing suit section simply entitled “Full on the Bottom” can make the task easier.
The retailer has tons of swimwear options for all types of gals, but as a girl with a bigger bottom I rely on Newport News to find bikinis/takinis that will flatter my form. If you are ready to start shopping here are some tips to make the task less painful for you:
- Be Realistic: After years of denial I know I take a small (or size 4) on my upper torso and my bottom is a healthier medium (size 6). Once I admitted that to get a two-piece that fits me perfectly I needed to order separates, I no longer became frustrated in my quest for a swimsuit.
- Order In: There is nothing more depressing then stripping down to your undies under the bright light of a dressing room. By shopping with a reputable online source, that embarrassment can be avoided altogether.
- Save Money: The web is filled with thousands of sites dedicated to discount shopping. A quick search can save you a pretty penny so make sure search for codes before placing your order.
- Landscaping: For the sake of your fellow sister, please make sure to shower and groom before trying on your swimwear. Not only is this a kind gesture for the next person to try on the suit, but also having a well-maintained bikini line can make you feel much sexier.
- Pad It: As one a LA native with my own breasts, I often feel I fall short of the norm I am exposed to. That is why I either select a swimsuit that features some padding on top or rely on a halter-top to make my boobs look more bountiful. Regardless of how you choose to adorn your upper torso, ruffles, patterns and other detailing is the way to draw attention upwards from your bottom
- Wrap It: Even though pear shaped gals can feel weightless in water, when we are back on land we can feel every jiggle as we step. A sarong or flowing skirt is a great way to cover for confidence so, go for it.
- Block It: No matter what shape you are in sunblock is the essential nectar to protect your skin.
- Flattering Fit: For me, boy shorts or little swim skirts flatter my figure. If you are going to choose one of those options, make sure that the fabric does not end mid thigh or at your widest point.
If you have any other tips for making pear shaped swimsuit shopping easy, please let me know. I would love to benefit from any experiences my pear shaped brethren may have had so do tell!
by Jane Diane Matthews on May 24, 2010
Shoe shopping can makes the average gal feel like Cinderella and her famed glass slipper. Women have always had a love affair with their footwear. The right pair of shoes can make us taller, allow us to walk miles and will always fit us no matter how much weight we may gain.
Right now Lord & Taylor is acting as our Fairy Godmother and a 20% discount off of regularly priced shoes is the magical, pixie dust. Customers need to enter the discount code SHOES until (05/24/10) upon checkout. There are plenty of options to choose from that can be put into the rotation of any pear shaped lass.
Pear shapely gals tend to have very shapely legs and have to be extremely cautious with the type of footwear that they should wear. Some shoe “don’ts” include:
- No Ankle Straps: Visually, ankle straps will give the appearance of your leg being cut in two and will make your gams look stumpy. Pear shaped gals should instead look for mules, slides or any other option that may help aid in an optical illusion of long and lean legs.
- A Little Lift: Yes, flats are extremely comfy and depending on the season, they can be incredibly “in.” However, a little lift will make our legs will look more shapely and will make our calve muscles more defined.
- Go Neutral: Since everyone is a different color, one gal’s nude can be another gals downfall. Luckily, metallic colors such as silver, gold and gunmetal are considered neutrals and manufacturers are finally acknowledging variations in flesh town. The point of this is by choosing a perfect shade can elongate the look of your leg.
- Avoid Stacked Heels- Stacked heels have the odd effect of making a stocky leg look even stockier. However there are plenty of other options such as wedges, kitten heels and stilettos that will work for us.
Considering the wide selection of shoes Lord & Taylor has, you can find plenty of options from the retailer. Happy shopping!
by Jane Diane Matthews on May 20, 2010
Regardless of your view of world politics, there is one fact that cannot be debated. Michelle Obama as firmly established herself both as a style icon but as an excellent role model for pear shaped women. Of course her unlimited budget and level prestige allows her to be draped in the most fabulous of garments, including this stunning beauty from Peter Soronen:
The shoulder bearing, cleavage-enhancing look is amazing and the royal blue color truly makes the Michelle look regal. Of course this gown is perfectly constructed to make her pear shaped figure look its best courtesy of the draped fabric and the cinch-waist detail. Oh what I would not do to not only own this dress but to have an invitation of an event worthy enough of the look.
Alas, I do not but prom season is in full effect and wedding season is right around the corner so if you are a pear shaped gal wanting to get Michelle Obama’s look for less, I’ve made it really easy. If you want to score a similar look Pacific Plex has a beautiful option priced well under $100 ($73.99):
This blue would work with a wide array of flesh tones, however the gown comes in a fully array of colors (red, black, fuchsia, gold and purple) and the construction is perfectly suited to highlight your luscious curves. No belt detail is required, as the ruched waist detail will naturally show off your curves.
Michelle is wearing some very expensive, diamond earrings and the Constellation Earring ($57) by Hurricane by Jane would mimic the effect on a budget:
The final pieces needed are some great silver shoes and a coordinating metallic clutch. The lovely
Mossimo Heulwen Sparkle Sandals ($19.99:
Plus this
Crystal Round Faux Leather Clutch Evening Bag ($19.99) will finish off the look:
Excluding the earrings designed by little ol’ me, the entire look can be purchased on Amazon.com. The total base price for all four pieces is $170.97, which should leave plenty of spare change in your prom budget!
by Jane Diane Matthews on May 5, 2010
There is no scarier time of year then now as bikini season is right around the corner. Annually, women across the nation swear that they will do their best to shed those extra pounds and if they aim to do it at a healthy rate, the loss should be capped at about 2 pounds a week. Slow and steady is the key to effective weight loss, but for those raised on good ol’ American instant gratification that can take too long.
As always, the way to muddle through the process of “dieting” is smoke and mirrors. Here are some style tips you should implement now until you achieve your goal:
- Go Nude: The reports are in and one of the hottest spring 2010 trends is nude tones. “Pear Shaped Women Encouraged To Get Nude This Spring” and by wearing a nude pump, you can elongate your leg and look instantly slimmer. This illusion will come not only from the additional inches of height, but once you find a neutral shade that matches your skin tone, viewers will see your leg and shoe as one visually, unobstructed look.
- Perfect Pants: According to fashion author Charla Krupp, flat front pants (with a hidden zipper) free of pockets will make you look skinnier. “Keep the length about a quarter of an inch from the ground and wear the highest heel you can stand in,” as that will make you “… look your longest and leanest.”
- Straight Skirts: Bell hems and poufy skirts are a pear shaped gals worst fashion enemy. A-line skirts are not only the most basic cuts, but the simplicity will elongate your bottom torso while making you appear more narrow in the hips.
- Swimsuit: A contemporary one piece will not only cover any bulges in your mid section, but the solid suit will not visually cut you into two. The top should feature a halter construction, and while you are at it, you can get some hidden body control to boot. Newport-News has their own, affordable Shape FX line. Through the end of today you can receive a 30 percent off of any in-stock, swimsuit by using the coupon code “626“:
More of Carla’s tips can be found here, including to use self-tanner on your legs and eating fiber rich foods and drinking water to reduce bloating. Do you have any other tips for looking instantly skinny? I would love to hear them so please feel free to post your comments.
by Jane Diane Matthews on May 3, 2010
Patience is a virtue, and nearly one year offer proclaiming my love for the Shelby Sweet-N-Lows by Lucky Brand Jeans, I’ve finally fulfilled my dream of ownership. Pear Shaped Gals unite, as right now the best fitting jeans for pear shaped figures are a bargain at $55:
The denim is currently reduced from $99.99 to $69.99 and there is an additional 20 percent discount on sale merchandise through today. The final discount (applied at either check out or in stores) will reduce the jeans to a bargain price of $55, and these jeans are worth every penny.
Since becoming a devoted fan of the line, I fell in love with the Sweet-N-Low jeans and have proclaimed the Shelby style the “Best Jeans for Pear Shaped Figures” because:
- Jeans are cut to accommodate hips
- The rise is high enough to prevent “crack” from showing and does not require a thong to wear
- The flare legs will help balance out the look of our hefty bottom and enhance our pear shaped figure
- Fabric is 99 percent cotton and 1 percent Lycra ensuring a great fit
- The color is a dark, rich indigo perfect for wearing either to work or play
- They are a great value for the money
Why take my word for it? Go for it and happy shopping!
by Jane Diane Matthews on April 29, 2010
Old Navy is the great equalizer of fashionable trends as nearly everyone can afford to splurge there every now and then. If you are bracing yourself to stock up on new summer basics like white t-shirts, shorts and flip flops, now is the time, as the merchandise is plentiful and you can save 15 percent on your total order thanks to the discount code ONGET15.
With that code by your side, there are plenty of basics any pear shaped gal can easily incorporate into their wardrobe. After stocking up on those goodies, why not treat yourself to an affordable Maxi Dress ($29.50) that will be perfect keeping cool regardless of the temperature:
If you are a pear shaped gal and have yet to embrace this trend, it is time to jump on the bandwagon. The top can be adjusted to fit and enhance your slim upper torso and every other body part you do not want to put on display, will be well hidden. For my money, I find maxi dresses the most comfortable, versatile and easy-to-wear pieces in my wardrobe.
This particular dress is available in both blue and black (so New Yorkers can get in on the action as well). But the bold coloring of the royal blue dress is my personal choice and to complete the Boho look all you need to add are some flip flops, an over sized purse and the Who Night Owl Necklace ($69) from Hurricane by Jane:
The enameled, owl, charm has one of the cutest faces I have ever seen and it is simply adorned with a lovely, gold filled link chain. This necklace is getting a lot of attention, however my charm supply is limited so “if you want it here it is come and get it!”
by Jane Diane Matthews on April 28, 2010
Macy’s current slogan, “Way to Shop” is like a verbal high-five. The store wants to celebrate the shopping accomplishments of their customers and right now they are offering a 25% discount and free shipping to make the task easier. From April 28-May 2, online shoppers who enter the code MACYSFRIEND will enjoy the discount while those who prefer shopping in store can get the savings by printing out this coupon.
Since prom season is right around the corner, one of the best uses of this discount will be applying it to the dress for the evening. Yes, I am obsessed with prom fashion and that is because as a pear shaped gal, I searched for months for the perfect dress and never found it. That is why until prom season 2010 is over, I am dedicating my efforts for helping mothers and daughters find great options at affordable prices.
So, what is my choice from the Macy’s Prom Preview 2010 selection? This little dress by Trixxi ($49.99) in the color suited for the Royal Tudors:
Since the 2010 Golden Globes red carpet, the color purple has been a major trend. The bold color is flattering to many skin types and the cut of the dress is perfectly suited for pear shaped gals. The garment features pleating throughout, the fitted bodice top will lock onto our narrow upper torsos and the bottom is generously cut to accommodate fuller bottoms.
This look can benefit from some great accessories from Hurricane by Jane and the winning look would be the contemporary styled Picasso Necklace ($56) and Bold and Beautiful Earrings ($73) from the recent twilight collection:
The reality is, that there are thousands of girls building their prom looks and their ultimate goal is to feel like a unique princess on the night in question. The goal can only be achieved by mixing their off-the-rack purchases with unique, contemporary hand-made accessories of any type.
Shoppers need to focus their energy on finding the best fitting and most flattering dress in their price range. Only after that task can you spend time and money on the accessories, and the jewelry by Hurricane by Jane is a great place to finish off any special occasion look.
by Jane Diane Matthews on April 21, 2010
Maxi dresses are a staple of my wardrobe. Not only are long dresses the most comfortable and versatile items I own, they are perfect for my physic. Long story short, the dresses are detailed to highlight the most fit portions of our bodies, (upper torso) and the bottom portions are generously cut for our larger hips. Max & Cleo’s Blackberry Halter Dress ($97) is my most recent obsession:
The combination of the color most associated with royalty matched with the plunging neckline will make this the perfect addition to my pear shaped wardrobe. If you are a first time Bluefly shopper, you can easily get this dress and another treat and be rewarded with a $30 savings. All you need to do is buy $150 worth of merchandise and enter the the coupon code AFF30 to save $30 bucks.
There are plenty of options to choose from, but a dress like this needs a great pair of shoes like these gorgeous, albeit pricey option from Prada:
Of course a great piece like the Golden Moon Necklace from Hurricane by Jane to complete the look:
Regardless of how you opt to use your first time $30 incentive from Bluefly, please choose wisely to avoid buyers remorse!
by Jane Diane Matthews on April 15, 2010
Happy Tax Day everyone! April 15 is one of themost stressful days of the year as people are scrambling to file their taxes and do their civic duty. The good news is, after the deed is done, consumers may find that they have more spare cash in their wallets than previously anticipate. The better news is that many retailers and restaurants are offering freebies and great discounts as a way to promote themselves and as an incentive to get people spending their refunds.
If you are interested in tapping into the offers, first thing to do is grab your travel mug and get a free coffee from Starbucks. While sipping on the elixir, it is time to check the racks at Banana Republic as for the next four days, you can get a healthy 25 percent discount off of brand-new, full price items. Those comfy on their couches can also get the 25 percent savings by shopping online (enter discount code TAXBREAK25 upon checkout).
Pear Shapely ladies can always find some great options at Banana Republic like this Silk Flutter Tier Top ($69):
Flowing fabric will help make your bustline look fuller, regardless of if you wear tailored pants, a pencil skirt or skinny jeans. The Layer Cake Necklace ($65) by Hurricane by Jane, would draw additional attention upwards:
Simple earrings like Dangle Me This ($42) would complete the look:
Whatever your shopping preference, with the current Banana Republic discount, the world can be your oyster!
by Jane Diane Matthews on April 14, 2010
Kohl’s commercials are confusing. They feature women who find their self worth by combining sales and coupons to score the shopping deal of the century. Sure, I love a good discount as much as the next crazed shopper, but my ego is not directly hinged upon it.
Despite my confusion, when there is a straight out sale I can easily understand, I fully support it. Kohl’s is finally having such a simple event. From 11am to 4pm today, online shoppers can receive either 20 percent off a $100 shopping spree (discount code APR20EDT) or a 15 percent savings of of any purchase (discount code APR15EDT).
That means I can take the time to stock up on my favorite undergarments for my pear shaped figure but add some pieces to my pear shaped spring wardrobe. One spring trend that every fun-loving, pear shaped gal should embrace is tie-dye. The trend is an easy way to incorporate splashes of color and at $19,99, this Apt. 9 Hammered-Sating Top, event those with a limited budget can partake in the fun:
For the most slimming, style effect, pear shaped gals should plan on wearing this flowing top with dark, skinny jeans. Your sculpted arms will be on display as the colorful pattern will bring all eyes to your upper torso. A necklace would be too much detail so simple earrings and a bold bracelet from Hurricane by Jane are all you need. The sterling silver and gold filled detailed Icicle Hoop Earrings ($47) and the heavy gage, sterling silver and gold filled link chain Heavy Metal Bracelet ($69) would be the accessory icing on this fashion kick:
Happy shopping!
