by Jane Diane Matthews on April 8, 2010
If you haven’t heard, nude is it for Spring. I’m not encouraging pear shaped gals to run out of their houses naked, but to find appropriate clothing in shades of caramel, pink and other flesh tones. Although it may appear to be a bid challenging for us, when there is a will, there is a way and England based Topshop is gonna help me get my seasonal, trendy, fashion fix thanks to this Spot Asymmetric Wrap Dress ($100):
The base color is beige and the polka dots are a chocolate brown, a lovely combo for pear shaped figures. The ruffle collar detail will add some girth to our upper torso and the additional puckers throughout will tie the look together. Don’t worry about the asymmetrical fabric, as the way it is positioned will actually provide an optical illusion for slimming down our hips. Plus the waist tie will whittle our middles and help create the always coveted hour glass figure.
Nude pumps are the next key to ensuring that our pear shaped figures will look their bests as our legs will look longer and who does not want to benefit from a couple extra inches in height. The Elgort Pump ($79) is one great option. The pretty pair can be scooped up from Nine West during their current 30% off Friends and Family Sale (enter code NWFRND4 at checkout from April 8-April 12):
So far, so cute! Of course a pretty pedi is a must for peep toe shoes, and some jewelry from Hurricane by Jane is another necessity. Since the fabric is patterned and the shoes have grommets, the Bold and Beautiful Earrings ($73) will finish off the look fabulously:
The sterling silver and gold filled link chain will work extremely well with the entire color palate and who doesn’t want a great pair of black earrings to incorporated into their wardrobe. Plus the jewels will allow you to use your favorite black purse with the ensemble thus saving on the overall budget, hurray!
by Jane Diane Matthews on April 6, 2010
Denim is a timeless fabric that has mostly served us well. Jeans are a common wardrobe staple and are worn by industrial workers and world leaders alike.
There are thousands of ways to wear a pair of jeans, but not all of them are good. From President Obama’s mom jeans to Walmart shoppers (below), there are many unfashionable choices that need to be avoided.
Unfortunately, as our model clearly demonstrates, everyone needs a reminder of how to wear denim, regardless of their body shape. Here’s a simple guide of denim don’ts:
- Don’t wear denim from head to toe. If you feel compelled to do otherwise, please make sure the colors are different (IE, white denim jacket with blue jeans) and that you have warned your escort for the evening to do the same. Case in point, Justin and Britney Hillybilly wedding ensemble:
- Don’t wear acid wash. As a survivor of bad 80’s fashion choices, my skin crawls when I see that this fashion abomination is back in force. Unlike a fine wine, this trend has gotten worse over time and I truly hope that this is the last we see of this tacky finish:
- Don’t wear droopy drawers. We all know about the dreaded muffin top and avoiding the look at all costs is a smart move. It is especially prudent to wear jeans with a rise high enough to cover your ass crack as well as tramp stamp:
- Don’t leave your house without really checking how those jeans look on you. Baggy jeans can make you look like you are wearing yesterday’s diaper while denim that is too tight may reveal a camel toe, ‘nough said?
- Don’t wear faux denim. Nearly every catalogue and designer has a denim legging in their Spring offerings. Since leggings are not forgiving and the legging trend seems to be duplicating the acid wash affect, just don’t.
This common sense style advice should help you avoid becoming the butt of ridicule in your jeans. For some denim do’s especially catering to pear shaped figures there are plenty of options available from NY & Company, Lucky Brand or from your favorite retailer.
by Jane Diane Matthews on April 1, 2010
Prom is an important right of passage for many young women, and the season is right around the corner. Finding the right date, transportation and outfit for the evening is the key to ensuring that the evening goes off without a hitch. All this can be a bit more challenging for pear shaped girls who are not fully accustomed to properly draping their curves.
Lord and Taylor is here to make the task a bit easier. The department store is always a must stop destination when shopping for prom ensembles and until April 3, 2010, you can save a whopping 20% off by using the discount code “SHOP.” The discount is applicable on both sale and regularly priced items and this
For young pear-shaped ladies looking for a fun and flirty look for prom night, I think this Ombre Strapless Bubble Dress from Xscape ($159) will fit the bill:
There are several reasons why this dress would make a perfect prom choice. When combined with the 20% discount as well as the current promotion offering free shipping, the total for this dress is $127. The orange and pink color combo would look great on nearly all skin tones and the pleating at the empire waist with a cute bubble hem will allow pear shaped girls to show off their best features while elegantly covering excess junk in the trunk.
The color palate achingly cries for gold accessories and the Hurricane by Jane Orb Necklace ($45) would elegantly and affordable accent the look:
A single Swarovski Fireball is adorned by a detailed gold filled link chain and the simplicity of the design will ensure that they dress still holds center state. Like Cinderella, the prom princess will need to wear some great shoes that are both stylish and comfortable and that is where these gold, satin sandals from Annie ($49.95-$50.95) come into play:
The jewel embellishments will coordinate with the Orb necklace, the golden hue is understated and perfectly suited for the dress and the 2 1.2″ heels will help a girl boogie, oogie, oogie until she just can boogie no more. The look can be completed by adorning your ears with a pair of pearl or diamond studs which can easily be borrowed from a friend or family member and another $10 will allow you to get this Rose Mini Clutch (Payless).
The total for this outfit will still be under $200, which will leave some pocket change perfect for getting a professional to style your hair for the big day!
by Jane Diane Matthews on March 30, 2010
My relationship with Newport News can be labeled as a “love/hate” affair. Many times I find myself browsing through their website or catalogue and find myself enraged with the styles they are featuring as they would look best on a group of ladies who lunch in Florida or Texas. I also have learned this following shopping tip the hard way “When shopping on Newport-News I have found that it is very important to check the fabric description to avoid purchasing an item that looks inferior and double check the sizing information as their shipping fees are costly.”
Just as I am getting ready to write off the clothing purveyor for the last time, they have an item that is so irresistible, affordable and versatile that I get sucked right back in. This time, the shopping bait is this lovely Shirred Two Tone Dress ($79):
For years black and white combinations have ruled my wardrobe. Regardless of whether you hop on the current trend of graphic prints, favor the color combo in the form of animal prints or even opt for classic tuxedo inspired pieces, you can never go wrong. Plus, this garment is part of the March Sale currently featured on the site and by using the discount code 695 (enter upon check out and expiring tomorrow 3/31/10) the additional 20% discount will allow you to own this baby for chump change.
Not only does this item eloquently pay homage to the b & w craze, it is perfectly constructed for our pear shaped figures. The item features subtle, jet black, sequin beading on the neckline and waistline. The light will reflect off the beads, and draw the attention to our “look” upward and away from our large, swinging hips. The bottom is constructed of loose, cascading fabric, exactly how our pear shaped assets should be covered. Ultimately, this item would be a perfect and affordable look that can be worn to any number of occasions ranging from date night to bridesmaid dress.
When it comes to wearing this dress in out accessories are the key to owning the look. Step one, wear your hair back and wear a bold pair of earrings like Yowl ($67) from Hurricane by Jane, L.L.C.:
The earrings are substantial looking enough that they only additional accessories you need are a great pair of shoes and a coordinating clutch. Chances are you have a metallic combo in your wardrobe, but if you were looking for a splash of color to mix it up, just go for your favorite and do it! Turquoise is a choice color popping up this spring and I think these satin shoes from Luichiny:
Combined with this affordable grey satin clutch from Target will complete the look!
by Jane Diane Matthews on March 29, 2010
Spring has officially sprung! Now is the time women across the nation re-evaluate their wardrobes, clean out their closets and make a shopping list to rejuvenate their options. Express has always been a great store for that, and thanks to a 25% discount pear shaped women can do so on a budget.
Express is known for their Editor Pants, that works on nearly every body type and shape. Since they are some of the best fitting bottoms for pear-shaped gal, including a cropped pair in your wardrobe will come in handy. Gals in the know, are stocking their closet with some key essentials for 2010, including military styles and these adorable cropped editor pants from Express ($59.50):
The inseam is 23″, so the pant would look great with a ballet flat, kitten heal or even some boots with a long shaft (as long as the pants cover the top of the boots). The fabric is made of a form flattering cotton and spandex mix, and the front is adorned with silver military styled buttons.
The key to wearing these pants is finding a top that will provide enough visual interest and work with the cut of the pant. My suggestion is this cute, Embellished Smocked Top for $49.50:
This top is following the currently popular safari trend but both pieces are subtle enough that they can be worn together and not make you look like a fashion victim. When adjusted, the smocked waistline will fit snugly around the top of your hip bone and should meet the top of the pants for full coverage.
No necklace is recommended for this look as both the top and the bottoms feature embellishments that provide enough detail around the neckline and elsewhere. However, some bling from Hurricane by Jane would be the icing on the fashion cake. I recommendation a great set of Pearl Tassel Earrings ($42):
Combined with the Twisted Sister Bracelet ($65).
Combining unique jewelry with any store bought ensemble will help ensure that your pear shaped look is one of a kind. Just make sure to follow the basic tips of adorning your pear shaped figure any time you shop. Remember, three way mirrors and an honest opinion from a stranger are the best way to ensure that you are draping your pear shaped curves in the most flattering way possible.
by Jane Diane Matthews on March 8, 2010
Yes, it rains in Southern California. When the skies finally open up, water rushes down drenching everything in site and proper rain gear is the only way to weather the storm. Every fashionable LA gal needs a trench coat and great rain boots in her wardrobe to get through the local rain season, and this one from Laundry by Shelli Segal ($126) is worthy of my pear shaped figure:
Although for many “khaki” is a must have color, especially for classic pieces like trench coats, the shade does not work for my skin tone. Instead I opted for a color that would make my blue eyes pop and you should feel free to do the same.
The jacket is constructed of nylon, so water will effortlessly be whisked away from your epidermis, but the cut makes this perfect raincoat for Pear Shapely, but the cut. The trench is long enough to hit mid thigh, thus covering any traces of my bottom heaviness and the cinch belt will snuggly anchor the layer in place while highlighting my whittled middle. Please note, the phone rep said that Laundry runs a bit small, so order a size up for your best fit. In general, Bluefly.com has an amazing range of trench coat options and if you call and place your order (instead of shopping online) they will provide you with free shipping.
by Jane Diane Matthews on March 4, 2010
Even though we all flipped our calendars to March, wedding season is coming up. That means there will be plenty a pear shaped gal struggling to find the perfect dress to wear to the event. Hopefully I can save you some time by pointing you in the direction of this adorable Marzipan Marvel Dress by Ryu ($99.99):
This dress will lovingly adorn your pear shaped curves. Construction details include “…a boned bodice, hidden side zip, rear smocking, shiny bow-bedecked belt, and a swingy scalloped edge skirt with floral cut-outs,” all of which will accommodate our hips perfectly.
Pear shaped gals generally have a hard time buying dresses without trying them on as the top can be a little to lose while the bottom can be too tight. However, by specifically looking at dresses with fuller cut bottoms like circle skirts or a-line shapes you can have shopping success. Pear shaped gals can focus their energies on checking out the measurements on top. With this retro cut dress (as the bottom fabric (our biggest challenge) will automatically be billowy enough to accommodate our assets.
This dress would look great with kitten heels and your favorite jewelry from Hurricane by Jane. I promise that any minute I will have my boutique updated with my latest and greatest, but until then, classic pearls would also do as ultimately, this dress is reminiscent of the great fashion from the 1950s. Thanks Ryu for putting a new spin on an old favorite:
by Jane Diane Matthews on February 22, 2010
Since the Bronze Age, people have been wearing belts. Whether the accessory was being worn out of necessity (to keep clothing up) or fashion (style first sister) belts are popular. Often pear shaped women are scared of trying the trend as they think that it will not flatter their form. Au contraire my friends, as when worn properly, a belt can be a curvy girls best fashion friend!
For an example of a don’t, let us look at our friend Jessica Simpson:
Although the media ripped her to shreds, the girl is not fat. She does have curves and this fashion catastrophe does nothing good for her figure. The jeans are too high and too light thus accenting her bottom. Additionally, the bold pattern of the thick belt cuts her torso off in two and making her look like two stockier parts were hastily put together with crazy glue.
Pear shaped gals looking to gussy up their looks with belts should do so in the following manner:
- Waist Synch: Pear shaped gals are known for their little middles. Pear Shapely gals can combine a great dress with a thick belt and avoid the mistake of Miss Simpson. You can choose either a solid or patterned dress but the key is sporting an item that will accommodate our hips well:
Even on the form, you can tell that the pleated bottom will accommodate our hips and there is a defined waistline to the garment. A great belt to build this look comes from Calvin Klein and it is also available on Bluefly:
With this baby snuggly affixed to your waist, you will look like the curvy goddess you are. When it is cooler out simply layer with a cropped black cardigan and black boots (consistency in tones will be visually kinder) and only adorn with a simple pair of earrings, hopefully from Hurricane by Jane. When the temperatures, just remove the sweater and swap the boots for a great pair of black gladiator sandals or even ballet flats.
- Drop ‘Em: Pear shaped gals can also wear a great belt to compliment a tunic and legging ensemble. The key to making this work is to keep the leggings slim, the top a bit billowy and long enough to loosely cover your bottom to mid thigh and then wearing the belt low slung on the hips. If pear shaped gals belt this one too high, the result will be like Jessica’s. The combo will keep your figure looking long and lean and be ultra comfy. This idea is great for gals with short torsos as well as the lower belt will elongate your visual lines.
- Necessity is the Mother: It is a fact, sometimes we need belts to keep our pants up. If that is the case, make sure the belt compliments the other accessories that are being worn and that combined with your jeans you do not either end up with a muffin top or looking short waisted as either looks are just not pretty.
Of course these are only a couple of ways for pear shaped gals to wear belts. Once you master these three basics you can expand your belt wearing ways to included wearing skinny belts over cardigans, sporting a thicker option on empire waist dresses and develop your own sense of Pear Shapely style.
by Jane Diane Matthews on February 11, 2010
Women looking for inexpensive ways to update their wardrobes go to Forever 21 in droves. Since the retailer has designer-looking options at bargain basement prices, it is really is a shoppers paradise even for those with limited budgets. Currently the style purveyor is having a Sales on Sale that reduces prices by up to another 75%, yowza!
The key to navigating a sale is to only buy items you would normally pay full price for and not just get swept up in a discounting frenzy. Pear shaped gals need to be especially cautious of this rule as I know that in the heat of the moment, I’ve purchase items better suited for apple shaped gals. So, at this moment, I am taking a deep, calming and cleansing breath so I can focus in and pick out some great options for pear shaped body types using my basic rules of dressing a pear shaped body. Here we go…
Navy is a classic color choice that never goes out of style. This little cardigan puts a contemporary spin on the colorful staple with a bit of sequins and an asymmetric finished hem. The front is open and a bit billowing, perfect for making our narrow torsos look a bit fuller. Not only would I have paid the original price of $22.80 for this but at $4.99 I think we all should scoop this find up:
Another light reflecting item calling out to me, is this layering piece perfectly suited for drawing attention upwards and away from our bottom heaviness. For $8.99 this little silver and grey cardigan can be yours:
Since I realize that not everyone one shares my passion for bling, and if you are one of those types of pear shaped gals, there are still plenty of options out there. If you have been searching for a great, black blazer to adorn your curves, how about this structured velvet beauty for only $9.99? The jacket is built with a closure at waist level (perfect for showing off that curve) and cropped so it will hit above the heaviest portion of our bodies. Personally, I would change the button on this to something vintage and black, just so this piece would feel more like my own.
This is where I need to stop myself as this is truly one of the best sales I’ve viewed in a while. However, if you find a personal favorite that I completely ignored, please let me know. I’m happy to share your word with Pear Shapely gals around the world.
by Jane Diane Matthews on February 9, 2010
What goes up must come down, and due to the lack of support, hers are now hanging closer to her navel:
Any pear shaped body type worth her weight in fruit knows that making the most of your figure is essential and great support garments are the way to go. There are only two types of bras I wear and they do the trick quite nicely. One is the Warners Tuxedo Bra (either under wire or wireless). Kohl’s carriers this bra and until the end of the day you can apply codes FEB20EST (Save 20% on orders over $100) or FEB15EST (Save 15% on your entire order) to save money on this wardrobe essential.
Or this strapless beauty from Victoria’s Secret that can currently bought using discount code SPRING10 ($15 OFF $100, $30 OFF $150 or $75 OFF $250).:
I’ve found that I need both options in my lingerie drawer as you never truly know what the day will hold. Why wait another moment and risk the girls drooping and scraping the sidewalk. Hike them up and wear them proud sister!
