Ask the Glam Gals!

How do I cover flabby arms?

Dear Glam Gals,

How do I find clothes like the dress Raquel Welsh is wearing that cover flabby upper arms???????  Help..... Rita

Answer:

Hi Rita, To help disguise flabby upper arms,  look for tops or dresses that have  elastic across the top, and can be pulled down over the shoulders.   Bloomingdales (online) has a few good selections, but make sure you don’t fall into the rut of buying things that are loose all over, like this first dress.

What makes Rachel’s style work is that she she knows how to find clothes where the top is loose, and the body of the top or dress is more fitted.

Also, try finding clothes with ¾ length sleeves. These can be worn all year round and give great coverage (like the Tory Birch dress on the left or the blue Elie Tahari Dress on the right). Once again, the sleeves are looser, but the fit is of the dress is flattering.

Cheers, Deborah and JoJami

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Should I match items or not?

Question:

I have enjoyed your website tremendously. I do have a question regarding the recent trend to "unmatch " items. It seems that it is "in" right now to have shoes not match the bag and also to have almost mismatched items in an outfit. For example I have seen leopard print shoes (brown and black) with a bright red dress and black belt. (I would have gone with a black or red shoe) . If one still matches does it make her look dated and out of fashion? the term “matchy matchy” has been used. How do we know when to match and when to not? Thanks, TC

Answer:

Hi TC, We agree that this can be a confusing issue. Matching clothes, is really based on your own personal style. It's a lot like how you might want to decorate your house. Some people like the mixed matched Shabby Chic look, and others upscale contemporary, monochromatic look. However, you are on the right foot, by being inspired by seeing how the stylists in the magazines are putting outfits together.

Your description above with the leopard print shoe with the bright red dress and black belt sounds right on track!  One note of caution! If you are going to wear that leopard print shoe, leave it at that. Don’t go buying the matching purse or belt. Moreover, when trying to wear a bright color shoe, do NOT match it with the same color bag. The idea is to have a fun “pop” of color, and not overdo.  If you want to do monochromatic…keep it subtle using neutral colors, like white, tan, black or grey. A bright yellow, red or bright blue from head to toe, is just too much!

Cheers, Deborah and JoJami

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Is There A "Season" for Animal Print?

Question:

Dear Glam Girls,
Is there a "season" for wearing animal print shoes? I just bought a pair of Magdesian fabric cheetah peep toe wedge sandals. But I have been told that animal prints are only for Fall and these are sandals?
Thanks,
     J

Answer:

Hi J,
No we think animal print is all year! Sandals say Spring/Summer so you will be fine! However, fabric, if shiny may say evening or dressy. Thanks so much for writing

Cheers!
Deborah and JoJami

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What Should I Wear to A Charity Ball?

Question:

Dear Glam Gals,
Please advise what to wear to a charity ball if you are plus size and 60+ years old. The theme this year which may or not be an issue is Golden Age of Hollywood. Would it be appropriate at my age and size to wear a shiny fabric such as gold or silver? Also are halter type, etc out of the question? Also style is an issue. I don’t want to look like an aging prom queen or mother of the bride. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thank you!
S.A.

Answer:

Dear S.A.,
Here are some good rules for women your age and body type to follow.

• Shiny fabrics tend to show every lump and bump, we say it’s a good idea to stay away from them.
• Halters can be very flattering on many women,  however, if you have broad shoulders or thick arms, this  is one style you will want to steer clear from
• We think Sophia Lauren is a great role model for wearing what looks glamorous on the red carpet. She  loves to wear boat neck tops that show her nice neckline, but cover up the tops of her arms.
• What makes a gown look like a mother of the bride, is stiff fabric and matching jackets and high necklines. Beware of these pitfalls!
• Aging prom queen, would look like cheap fabric, and too much glitz and glitter. Keep it simple and make sure your dress is a quality fabrication.
• Make sure the color is flattering on you. As we age, black can be draining and grey , although very fashionable these days, can look drab on many of us!
• Go here for more great style ideas for women over 40!

Thanks for writing in!
The Glam Gals

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Can I Get Rid of the Dark Circles Under My Eyes?

Question:

Dear Glam Gals,
I know as far as makeup goes, less is more. BUT, I have terribly dark circles under my eyes that make me look like the victim of a good kick by MR. ED! How do I diminish these circles without having concealer in all the little lines and wrinkles? ~ Jeanie Robinson, Hickory, NC

Answer:

Dear Jeanie,
To give you the most up to date answer on this age old problem we consulted make-up artist to the Stars, Sana Young from Meccage. She tells us, there are light weight concealers out there that give maximum coverage. Estee Lauder has one.....it comes in a navy blue tube with a gold cap and it’s called Estee Lauder Smoothing Creme Concealer. Sana says a little of this goes a long way.

As well, if your dark circles are deep, not puffy, just dark, Sana says try Vitamin K, you can get it in a gel or some eye moisturizers have it as an ingredient. It does help!
 
Lastly, if you really want it to go away, for good, you can try having Restylane injected just below. This will fill in the depth, and help with the discoloration. If you like the appearance then you can consider having a fat transplant.

Good luck!

The Glam Gals
Deborah and JoJami

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What Should I Do With My Catalogs?

Question:

Dear Glam Gals,
I know holiday time is nearing because my mail box is bulging at the rivets! I have shopped by catalog for convince, now it seems as if I receive every catalog ever printed! I would like some advice from the professionals; so I am going straight to the Glam Gals. What is the best way to approach my (growing) catalog pile? I know,  I should begin by putting my VISA away and develop a plan (I have listened to you!) But what is next? What is the plan?? Sincerely, Shops-By-Phone

Answer:

Dear Shops-by-phone,
When it comes to getting all those catalogs it can be rather overwhelming. When it comes to the question, should I or shouldn’t I buy from them we say, please by all means put that Visa away… we would much rather you get your body into the store and try things on, than buy from a catalog. However, that being said, we actually think these catalogs are a great tool to use in making your shopping plan.

So…here are 10 tips to what to do with all those catalogs:

1) Read catalogs like you would a fashion magazine. Look at what trends are coming in style, look at what colors they are showing. This will give you a good feel for how you might update your wardrobe for the coming season.

2) Be picky about which catalogs you read. Throw out the rest. Don’t be tempted to read the ones that are not worthy.

3) Catalogs we like are Nordstrom, Neiman-Marcus, Saks, any high end store. For casual, we like Banana Republic, Anthropology, and even J. Crew has got some great finds!

4) Catalogs we think will get you off track are Coldwater Creek, Chico’s, Talbots, anything too earth cookie will make you look matronly and uninspired

5) Just remember, there are good and bad styles in all catalogs, because they have to sell to all types of tastes. Its not how much it costs; it is how it looks, fits and how much you love it.

6) You should not buy things from catalogs if you can help it. It is always better to go to the store when possible and try things on.

7) Use catalogs to inspire you to try to imitate a “look” if you have a budget. One of our favorite stores for a great bargain is H and M. They do a great job of selling clothes that have lots of style and a low price tag.

8) If you do buy from a catalog, go ahead and buy 2 different sizes so you can try them both on and return the one that does not fit. Its very hard to buy things and have them fit the first time around. If you love it, and it needs a little alteration, get it done. Never feel guilty about getting something altered.  Its so important that your clothes fit your unique body and its almost impossible for anyone to buy something that does not need a little nip or tuck here and there.

9) Only keep things that you absolutely LOVE and adore…most people get things from a catalog, and keep it, even if it is less than wonderful.

10) Finally, start noticing what colors they put the models in. Usually they put the right color on the right model.  If you are unsure of what colors look good on you, find the models with your coloring and go for that . The jacket or top in colors that look good on you are key to looking great!

Good Luck!

The Glam Gals
Deborah and JoJami

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Is There a Skirt Length Rule?

Question:

Hi Deb and JJ, Is there a rule about skirt length after a certain age?  I work hard at the gym, and my legs are as sexy and shapely as those of a 20-something.  But since I've long left my twenties behind, does that mean short skirts are a thing of the past, too?  I am very short--just 5'--and long skirts make me look even shorter!  So what are the guidelines about hemlines?  I realize micro-minis are out of the question, but what about skirts a few inches above the knees?   Thanks!   Morgan

Answer:

Hi Morgan! Hemlines have been all over the map for so long, that we feel strongly that skirt length is all about what looks good on YOU! That being said, you certainly have the right gut feeling, about long skirts, because at your height, you are correct in assessing that they will make you look shorter!

The mistake many women make is that they don't take in account thickness of legs, knees and ankles as well as length of leg. This is what counts in skirt length. If you like the look of your knees then an inch from the top of the kneecap is about the highest you should go. If you work in a professional environment, you might want to make sure your hemline is appropriate and conservative. We love that you are still showing off those great legs! We applaud you!

Cheers! The Glam Gals

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Can I Dress Casual and Still Look Chic?

Question:

Hi Deb and JJ, I'm currently recovering from knee surgery and am facing another surgery due to my rare knee condition.  Since I'm been laid up for almost 2 years I've lost track of how to dress appropriately even just for casual wear.  I'm 47 years old with a hourglass figure.  I wear a Canadian size 8 - 10.  Since my job was working with kids with physical disabilities I liked to dress casual but still look chic and professional.  I need to learn how to dress casual chic when going to physio, Doc appointments and just out in the community instead of wearing athletic clothing. ~M.T.

Answer:

Hi M.T.! We know that we all love and need to be comfortable, but we want to assure you that comfortable can still look great! We are going to assume that high heels probably won't be an option for you, but you're in luck, since the biggest trend this fall is the flat boot.

We suggest that the first thing you do to update your wardrobe is to throw out anything that you feel is not making you feel like you look great. Once your closet is organized and looking a little barren, then you are ready to fill it back up with some new updated items! (For help organizing your closet, check out our DVD, The Ultimate Cure for the Disorganized Closet!)

First off, for a professional office look, try some pants in a micro fiber. These never need ironing, and have some stretch in them for a slimming, super comfy fit.

Next, find a great blazer that will either match or coordinate with the pants. We want to make sure you show off your great waist, so opt for one that has some darts in it, that is a shorter style and fits well.

Another option for the run around days is a comfy skirt with flat boots, and a nice fitting cashmere sweater or vest. If you wear jeans, just make sure that you buy a new pair that is updated and in style. You will want to opt for one with some flair to balance your figure out. Also, do not be tempted to tuck in! Just make sure that your top is fitted and throw that new great fitting blazer on top.

Do not wear tennis shoes with this. Go for the flat or short boots with a wedge, or even a low heel. Don’t forget to update your make up and lipstick… (More on that in the next Glam Plan newsletter!) Be sure to sign up for the FREE newsletter on our blog.

Cheers! The Glam Gals

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Does the "Labor Day' Rule Still Apply?

Question:

Dear Deb and JJ, I usually stop wearing sandals after Labor Day....does this "rule" still apply? If you want to wear a casual skirt the next two months (those of us up north) and it is still too warm for tights what do you put on your feet... especially if you do not look great in ballet flats or you do not feel they are age appropriate. Just wondering,   L.R, Wayne, PA

Answer:

Dear L.R., Really the rule is pretty much not to wear white after Labor Day, and that includes any dress, skirt, pant or shoe that is white. However, all your other summer things, including sandals, are perfectly fine. Basically, you want to wear a shoe that is in keeping with the weight and feel of the outfit.

If it is still warm enough in your area to wear a summer skirt or short, then by all means wear a sandal with it. If your summer tan has faded, then make sure to put on some self tanner so your legs won't look washed out. So basically, put just your white pants, skirts and shoes away and enjoy the rest of the warm weather!

Cheers! The Glam Gals

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How Much is Too Much?

Question:

Dear Deb and JJ, Recently I had my toes done before I went on vacation to my friends lake house and the guy did a little flower on each big toe. Then, I was at a craft show and found a really cute ankle bracelet for myself and thought it would be a fun step toward updating me, so I splurged and got it.

Now, visiting another friend she fell in love with the ankle bracelet and said here! and slipped a toe ring on me. So now I have one toe ring, one ankle bracelet, and two flowers on my toes (color is subtle) My question is that too much for one set of feet??? Sincerely, Dressed From the Knees Down

Answer:

Dear Knees Down, Well, this is very interesting!! We think your intentions are very good... we love that you have splurged on something that you want. However there is one problem.. the truth is ankle bracelets and toe rings went out of style years ago and are not in style right now. You want to look hip, we've got some suggestions below.

Also, little drawings on your manicure or pedicure are fun for teenagers. They are not age appropriate for us ladies. This being said, we feel like we have burst a balloon and taken the fun out of life. However, we promise you we are not snobby, stogy old ladies, that don't want you to shine your individuality. NO, we want you to be YOU, but do it with some hip flair, some Oh, la la..   Don't worry, we have a solution for your fun loving soul! Put your toe and ankle bracelet away or wear it at night with nothing else! Then try these tips to update your look and TWEAK YOUR CHIC!

1. Do it with a great FUN watch!!! Start a watch collection. Cheapo is fine. Find one that speaks to you. Collect them and switch them up. The first time I bought an inexpensive watch I thought I would never wear it much. It's my favorite one now! Once it starts to look worn, I will toss it and not feel guilty.

2. Buy a jeweled flip flop or one with beads on it. Your shoes should be where you put your bling; not your ankle. For examples, visit our past blog posts on shoes!

3. Try some metallic nail polish in bronze for some subtle shine!

4. How about a colorful purse. Your purse should be FUN. Buy one in a bright color that you LOVE.

5. Totes can say "wow" too. See if you can find a flashy beach bag that says your personality. These are all much better ways to show your "cool" factor!

Cheers!

The Glam Gals

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