Special effects can be used in fashion to disguise features that you want to hide or accentuate the ones you want to show.  Using the right colors, cuts, and fabrics can give off optical illusions that flatter your appearance.  Here are some special effects that can be used in fashion:

Lines

Lines in fashion are important and can create tall and slim illusions.  Vertical lines that move the eye up without interruption will give off a more slender appearance.  Beware: Lines that stop the eyes from traveling will leave you with a short and heavy appearance.  When you wear a belt with the pretense of disguising a belly bulge you are actually drawing more attention to this problem area. Undergarments such as a waist-shapers, body-shapers, and form-fitting bras can facilitate the illusion that you are slimmer than you actually are.  If you have a large stomach put flattering accent on your hips by wearing a dress that has blousing over the waistband.

Colors

Black color is notorious for slimming effect, however other dark colors can work the same way to absorb light and give you a slimming look.  Dark grays, emeralds, and burgundy colors all work well to create a slimming illusion.  On the flip side, wearing bright colors around the areas that you want to show off enhances the illusion of fullness.  Two things to note about color: 1) Color should be picked based on one’s complexion.  For example, yellow tones should wear colors that bring out the red tones of the skin and red tones should avoid wearing colors that bring out redness. 2) A single color gives a vertical illusion of height and thinness. More than two or three colors in the top and bottom portion of your outfit will create a horizontal illusion and therefore can cut down on your figure.

Accessories

Throw off the illusion that you are smaller than you really are by wearing a bag large enough to compliment your size.  The illusion doesn’t stop at the size; the length of the handbag is important in hiding or emphasizing features as well.  For example, you wouldn’t want the length of your handbag to hit right at your hips if your hips are the feature you are trying to hide.

To hide a small chest, wear bows at the neck to distract the eye.

To conceal a sway back try wearing belts that buckle in the back or a short jacket.

If you want to look smaller with jewelry avoid chunky necklaces and small pieces that will only make you look bigger.

Cuts & Fabrics

The effects of texture can enhance or distract from your figure and illusion of size.  For example, fabrics that are clingy to the body can show off your problem areas while heavy fabrics can add volume to a barely there bust or waistline. Silk, cotton, jersey, and linen are good optical illusion fabrics that work best in making you look slim.  Keep in mind that anything shiny, clingy, or bulky will only emphasis your problem areas so you should only wear these if you have regular portion sizes.  Cuts of fashion can provide optical illusion as well.  A skirt fitted at the hips that gradually widens as you go down will distract from big thighs.  Ruffles at the neckline can disguise big hips and bursting stomachs.

Perspective by Amanda Holst

Fashion 101

(Click on photos for credit)

Summer still has two months of sizzle before we start packing away our summer wardrobe.  In fashion however, looking ahead is key to staying on track for the latest trends.  Here’s a sneak peak at what’s coming your way:

WOMEN

The style coming up for you depicts the future and the future is now.  Sheer, sheen, and cut-out fashions lie before you.   Bring out the leather and button your shirts all the way to the top, this season is sure to infuse plenty of sex-appeal with imagination.

Lingerie as Outerwear

Dior 2010 Lingerie Outfit (source style.com)

Laces and layered lingerie will be in this upcoming season. Patterned Thigh-highs are the perfect way to let go of your inner vixen.

Velvet

(Jean Paul Gaultier source style.com)

Color and quality are what’s vital in pulling off this impending style.  Revolutionize the look by adding your own style of grunge, chic, or classic style to this look.

Accessories

The accessories for women include a variety of capes, ankle socks, thigh-high and fur boots, and camel and aviator jackets.  Layers upon layers of rings will also be popular.  Bring out your favorite stones and don’t be afraid to double-stack or attach your chains to your rings and bracelets.

Missoni source style.com

Jonathan Saunders Fall 2010 source fahionising.com

D & G source myfacehunter.com

Aquascutum Autumn/Fall 2010 source fashionising.com

Burberry Prorsum Fall 2010 / source wwd.com

photo courtesy of songofstyle.blogspot.com

Men

Guys will be sporting suits from the 50’s and 60’s and unshaped suits will defy this season’s look for men.  Two-button and Continental cut styles are in:

Polo Ralph Lauren source ivy-style.com

Suits in slender cuts, short length, and two buttons will put a modern twist on the classics tonal suit:

Giorgio Armani source gq.com/fashion

Other fun trends for guys this upcoming season include:

Cashmere ties, broken-in boots, shearling & camel jackets, fitted cargo pants, & plaid dress shirts:

D’Andre New York

Flouzen x Kitsune source the 189.com/fashion

Burberry Prorsum source hommetimes.com

source fitness.bf-1.com

Male Brooches

Male brooches are making heads turn this next coming season so don’t be afraid to adopt this trend.  Look for cool vintage, straight and pointy lapels styles.

Accessories

Guys, your look wouldn’t be complete without an over-sized duffel bag for travel or storage:

U-Temple source selectism.com

Colors and Palettes

Every season Pantone and Lenzing Textiles put out their report for what colors and palettes of colors will be popular.
This season expect to see an array of aquatic and navy blues, translucent and golden yellows, pastel and rich pinks, metallic and steel grays, and light and forest greens, just to name a few.

Pantone Color Report Fall 2010 source trends-in-details.com

Perspective by Amanda Holst

Fashion 101

(photo courtesy of www.featurepics.com)

Happy Birthday Cancer

(June 22-July 22)

Cancerians, because you have a tendency to search for the right opportunity you are still organizing through facets of your life such as home and work.  You will be experiencing a revival this month that will allow everything to fall into place.  Play up your mood in fashion by reviving what’s in your wardrobe.  Add colorful ribbon or feathers to the same old pieces or blend fabrics to resuscitate your favorite pieces.  Try conjuring up something new by bringing rocakability to a new hairstyle.

Leo

(July 23-August 22)

You are known as the ruler of the jungle and your presence commands respect and attention. Leos, you may be dealing with school or travel problems, but your self-confidence should improve this month.  Take center stage with your leadership skills and bring your style back this month.  Your admirable cuts and prints should lead the way.  Leo ladies try demanding attention this month with naval striped attire.  Leo men, dominate with layers or sport cotton and natural fiber.

Virgo

(August 23-September 22)

Virgos, you are known to be shy and introverted but this month will give you many opportunities to socialize and put yourself out there.  Find ways of expressing yourself without blowing your budget by revamping something in your closet.  Ladies, bring out your old patched or torn jeans and pair with a plain white tee.  Virgo guys, you can easily get away with that vintage button-down plaid shirt you’ve temporarily stowed away.

Libra

(September 23-October 22)

Librans, you strive to obtain balance in personality and work situations.  While harmony may be an overall goal, this month you will be dealing with your own public image problems.  Be mindful about dressing to the occasion to get over this temporary hump.  Libra guys, put extra effort into a special occasion by showing up in a slim-cut linen or white suit. Libra gals, restore your public image by ‘wowing’ everyone with a neutral tone or pastel thigh high split dress.

Scorpio

(October 23-November 21)

Scorpions, you are an emblem of courage and have great insight. Your home life and social interactions are getting stronger this month; however, your productivity levels are low for you.  Still, true to your nature, you will find a way to work it out. Pull it off by showing your passion for fashion.  A tight graphic tee shows off a scorpion guy’s masculinity, while a flirty party dress can show off a female scorpion’s major curve appeal.

Sagittarius

(November 22-December 21)

Sagittarius, you are thought of as brave and innovative.  This month you will find yourself having trouble balancing your home and social life.  On a brighter note, your leadership qualities shine through and doors open for you in the workplace.  Sag guys, try being experimental with rock vintage wear or the bold military jackets that are in.  Sag gals, balance your act by wearing shades of yellow and vintage fabrics.

Capricorn

(December 22-January 20)

Home and work battle it off this month but you eventually make your goal this month with the support of a key person.  Escape your troubles by broadening you horizons in fashion and stepping out of the casual norm. Check out magazines and see what next season can bring.  Capricornian guys can get away with a minimal look but try sprucing up your look with larger shapes or rolled hems.  Gals of this sign, try adding vivacious colors such as terracotta or cactus green to your fashion choices.

Aquarius

(January 21- February 19)

There are some challenges that you are dealing with this month but the opportunities that are presenting themselves to you will counterbalance any strife you feel.  Work hard this month in fashion but be careful not to break the rules or affront anyone.  Aquarius guys, try the unconventional look by dressing in a sporty nylon jacket.  Aquarius ladies, entertain your opportunities in asymmetric cuts and add sequin pieces to gain that stunning look.

Pisces

(February 20-March 20)

This month you will be dealing with trust issues but there is plenty of energy coming in from your artistic and playful side.  You are lucky with money this month and you may get some good news in regards to work.  Hone in on your creative side and let it show through fashion.  Guys, simple styles can be transformed into trendy.  Make your logo t-shirt a statement piece and finish the look with a blazer over it.  For Pisces gals, uplift your creative side by adding a decorative scarf or handbag to your classic look.

Aries

(March 21-April 20)

Aries, you are forceful and not afraid to take problems by the horns.  However, this month you may be dealing with battles at work.  Despite this, your private life is going really well for you, so you may want to schedule fashion events with friends to keep your mind off of work.  Gals, go to the extreme with a bright high-waisted or tapered blouses.  Aries guys, looking to show off your fearless traits?  Try dabbling in floral shirts and black-trimmed jackets.

Taurus

(April 21-May 21)

This month look out for challenges with your emotions and in your social life.  There will be many opportunities for work gatherings so use fashion to your advantage. Taurus ladies, use your best judgment skills this month by skipping the skimpy skirts and going for a full-coverage sleek look instead.  Taurus guys, shoot for a minimal but elegant look; browns and beiges work best for a subtle look.

Gemini

(May 22- June 21)

Ideas come to you naturally and you are stylish and elegant when it comes to fashion.  Even though you are having social tribulations this month and work may be dominating your personal life, you can still express yourself through fashion.  Casual T-shirts and cotton shorts are perfect for the Gemini guy who needs to unwind.  The Gemini gal can unpack her worries by sporting a light tunics or blouse.

Perspective by Amanda Holst

Fashion 101

Misconception: Never Mix Patterns & Prints

Dress by Erdem/ Jewelry by Justin Giunta

Seen as a never-do misconception, mixing patterns with prints only limit a woman’s closest.   Knock out this misconception by finding harmony with designs.

Here’s how:

If the colors are different, then the design should be the same.

If the designs are different, then the colors should be the same.

CHANGE IT UP: If one pattern has big shapes then the second pattern should have smaller ones.

Stay in the same family of color and go light on accessories to pull this challenge off.

Want to take a risk but don’t know where to start?  Try black and white patterns and then go from there.

Misconception: Don’t Wear White after Labor Day

Your mother drilled this misconception in your brain and every year this holiday dictates when exactly to put away the white. While summer clothes in general shouldn’t be worn in the fall as the temperature starts to cool, the color white doesn’t have to be constricted to the same ruling. Creamy white and white wool are perfectly acceptable; you can pair loose-fitting white denim jeans with a snug sweater and boots to make a stylish outfit.  If you are fixed on this misconception, you can slowly introduce white into your wardrobe.  For example, sneak in a white blouse under a cardigan.

Misconception: Ready-to-wear Fashion is Actually Ready-to-Wear

Fatima Lopes' Spring/Summer 2009 Collection

I have many friends who have an array of shapes and sizes and not one has ever raved at how perfect an outfit was off the rack.  One designer’s size 6 isn’t necessary going to be another’s size 6.  Manufacturers have to cater to the average size and what’s the average, really?

The clothes that models wear are tweaked in a way to fit perfectly in all the right spots, so cut yourselves some slack.  Don’t let this misconception discourage you from trying new fashions, just bear in mind that altering might be a possibility.  So either find a brand that fits consistently to your measurements or make best friends with the designer.

Photo source: China Daily/Agencies

Misconception: When in Doubt Bring Out the Girls

Yes, we get it you have a noticeable rack.  And while this misconception would dictate that drawing attention to your best attribute is the best fashion decision, in many cases it actually becomes a turnoff.

You can still enhance what you have without spoiling the illusion by flattering rather than exposing your bustline.

A V-line shirt heightens and proportions your girls in a manner that is tasteful.  Empire waisted shirts are great for the busty woman who wants to hide trouble spots and wearing designs can serve as the perfect detour.

Avoid spaghetti straps at all costs and make the word support your new mantra.

Misconception: “The _____________ is the New Black”

I’m sure you’ve heard this saying a million of times.  This is the phrase the sales clerk says tells you when trying to sell you a teal garment that is completely out of your comfort zone.  The idea that black clothing is versatile is no mystery but to advocate that a certain color or concept will replace this notion makes this misconception a fallacy.  Set your own rules be your own person.  Buy colors or fashions that you like because in fashion, one day its ‘in’ and the next its ‘out.’

It was Coco Chanel who said that black is the new black.

Perspective by Amanda Holst

Fashion 101

5 you Can Disguise The FACT that y0u are a Vampire

requiem

invictus

gangrel

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you Are a fashion MAVEN

3

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Lady Gaga

aesthetics

art deco

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discover

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Perspective by Amanda Holst

Fashion 101

Click on photos for photo credits

Which Fashion Mistake are you?

1) You just found out about a party this weekend and you are psyched.  When it comes to the outfit that you are going to wear, you…

a)    Will probably wear what you were earlier that day, no big deal

b)   Mentally run down your accessories from your earrings to your belt, to your shoes, and finally your purse

c)    Are probably going to raid a shirt from your sister’s closet

d)   Will make it an excuse to go shopping, you totally could go for a new top

e)   Are just excited to find out about something so cool

2) You see a group of people who are wearing last year’s demure metal studded style fashions and gladiator shoes; your first thought is:

a) I wonder if I could got those on sale

b) Cute accessories!

c) Can I borrow those?

d) That’s so last season

e) Oh, I didn’t even notice

3) You have to leave the house in five minutes.  So far you are wearing jeans and a T-shirt.  What shoes do you grab?

a) The $1 thong sandals you scored at Old Navy’s Mega Sale this last weekend

b) It’s a toss up between your Carlos by Carlos perfectly pink pumps or Jimmy Choo Fiona T-straps; you have five minutes to decide, so there’s plenty of time

c) Your roommate’s sandals; you are so happy you wear the same size

d) Pumps or dressy sandals, whichever you find first

e) The same raggedy boots you always wear for everything

4) What would you buy in a bargain bin?

a) Uh, my whole wardrobe

b) Rings, bangles, sunglasses, things like that

c) Some leggings

d) If I happen to see something that sparks my eye, then score!

e) Funky T-shirts from the 80’s or souvenir T-shirts

5) Who is your fashion idol?

a) Brittany Spears

b) Rachel Zoe

c) Avril Lavigne

d) Lady Gaga

e) Sarah Silverman

Mostly a’s

Fashion Cheapskate

You know where every sale is and you can be able to redeem any coupon to any store at the bat of an eye.  You are a master at getting a good deal but be careful that you aren’t cheating yourself out of a good fashion opportunity.  What’s the sense in having an article of clothing that doesn’t go with anything you currently have?

Your Mission: Try to get out of your comfort zone and blacklist the sales rack when you go into the store.  Start with the new arrivals and go from there.  Still having a hard time?  Determine your lifestyle, your body type, and your fashion personality to help you get started.

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Mostly b’s

Accessories Whore

Accessories are your guilty little pleasure.   You have a gazillion pairs of shoes and purses and can fill in the blank: I have a _____ for every outfit.  While most people would say when in doubt, take off, your motto is to add more accessories.

Your mission: Your obsession with accessories may be a cover-up for more serious fashion fears.  Since you might be using accessories to hide features that you are not proud of, your mission is to find items that will accentuate the features that you do have.  For example, instead of wearing a belt to draw attention away from your saddlebags find an A-line flare dress that will do the same trick but at the same time show off your sexy and sultry curves.

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Mostly c’s

Goodwill Hunting

You would so much rather borrow a top than spend the energy having to deal with do the shopping for yourself.  You would call your look ‘unique’ and ‘different’ while others may say you suffer from a ‘clothing personality disorder.’   When not under the influence of what your parents, friends, or coworkers think you should wear, your inspiration comes from the movie character Juno and you consider yourself self-aware.

Your mission:

Start thinking for yourself and create a style all your own.  Which of the following words pop out at you when you think of fashion for yourself:  Urban, Eclectic, Bohemian, Dramatic?  Once you find your fashion style then you can start building your own brand.  Experiment with fashion that fits within your style realm.  Want to really shock people?  Offer to let them borrow something of yours!

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Mostly d’s

Fashion-Assured

You don’t need a silly quiz to tell you where you stand.  You know that you don’t always make the right decisions when it comes to fashion but you have the confidence to try new things.  You may not be picture perfect but you know what you have and how to flaunt it.

Your mission: Your mission is to spread your confidence to those who lack it.  Don’t be guilty of dictating fashion just because you are the little expert.  Let your friends know they look great when they try something out of their comfort zone.  Loan out clothes and magazines whenever possible.  Better yet, throw a makeover party.  Everyone is dying to try on something from your closet.

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Mostly e’s

Fashion-Retarded

You have no clue what the measurements of your clothing are and your idea of fashion forward is having numerous colors of the same shirt.  It’s not that you haven’t given up hope of throwing together a fantastic outfit, it’s just that you realize that it’s safer if you didn’t try.  All of your friends are one phone call away from What Not to Wear and everyone knows that a pen is your favorite hair accessory.

Your mission:

So while fashion sense may seem like rocket science to you, ask your more fashion-savvy friends to give you some pointers or read magazines to get an idea of how colors and styles go together.  Remember you can change, but only if you want to.  Speaking of What Not to Wear, isn’t it someone’s newly-found burst of confidence that gets more rave reviews than the actual new look?

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Perspective by Amanda Holst

Fashion 101

]]> http://sjhelium.com/2010/06/02/which-fashion-mistake-are-you/feed/ 0 http://sjhelium.com/2010/05/26/first-date-fashion-impressions/ http://sjhelium.com/2010/05/26/first-date-fashion-impressions/#comments Wed, 26 May 2010 17:56:29 +0000 amandaholst http://sjhelium.com/?p=3508 So you’ve finally hooked a date with that guy or girl you’ve been chasing for a while.  While it may seem like the hardest part is over, how you present yourself on the first date may make or break the advancement of your relationship.  Here are some telltale signs about what kind of date you will be by the first fashion impressions that you are planning to give.

The Blazer

A guy wearing a blazer means business.  Not only is he being considerate about your feelings by dressing up for you ladies, he is showing off the fact that he knows how to dress too.  This may only be the first date, but his blazer may be telling you that he is willing to bring you home to his parents one day.

The Well-Groomed Look

The first impression starts with the first few minutes of the date.  The well-groomed guy knows that if he smells good and looks put-together then he has a good chance of keeping his date’s attention.  Having a neat shave, a nice haircut, trimmed fingernails, and fresh breath are all signs that the well-groomed date has the ‘it’ factor.

The Tasteful Little Black Dress

The woman wearing the tasteful little black dress knows that simple is sexy and the classic look is what really makes her look pretty.  If she combines this look with confidence and a pair of heels then you know that she’s come equipped.  The details lie in the message of the accessories so if your date is wearing flirty earrings and a colorful purse then she’s telling you that not only is she approachable, but she is fun as well.

The Pointy-Pimp shoe

If a guy is wearing pointy pimp shoes, he has either just tried out for a part in Warlock or he is giving off the impression that he is a major player.  Don’t be surprised if the pointy pimp date is checking himself out in reflections of storefront windows or checking out other women for that matter.

Jeans and a T-shirt

Nothing says ‘I don’t care’ like a pair of jeans and a t-shirt on a first date.  The gal that shows up in this fashion faux pas gives off the impression that little effort went into looking good for her date.  This take-me-like-I- am mentality may suffice after the fifth or sixth date but if this is what she chooses to wear on the first then she may not be thinking that you are worth the trouble.

Flaunt Everything You Got

The flaunt-everything-you-got date wants to put everything out on the table, literally.  Bad dating experiences may have left this gal feeling like promiscuity is what her date wants but beware: The flaunt-everything-date just might spill more than you want to know and leave nothing up to the imagination.

Disclaimer: Dressing appropriately depends on where your date is taking you; so for example, don’t wear your little black dress if you know you are going horseback riding, etc.

Ultimately it’s your personality that wins the relationship, but it all starts with first impressions!

Perspective by Amanda Holst

Fashion 101

Notable booths that stuck out for me included Beadzilla, Jax Hatz, and Yan’s Embroidery Art.

Beadzilla

Bedzilla owner and designer Laura Thompson isn’t new to the world of beading.  Her ten years experience have substantiated her collection of high-quality, handcrafted jewelry.  Laura describes her social jewelry as fun, easy to wear, and convertible to any outfit.  I found these unique dichroic-glass beads and gemstones to be the most appealing.

Jax Hats

Butterflies and flowers seemed to be the theme for Jacqueline “Jax” Ryan’s hats.  Full of color and artistry, each creation was individual in its own right.  Hats off to Jacqueline for pulling off ingenuity in every one of her pieces.

Yan’s Embroidery Art

The crowd in artist Yan Inlow’s booth was enough to draw me in.  You wouldn’t believe that her art was embroidered by hand until you got a closer look.  Can you believe it takes a whole month to finish just one of these fine designs?

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-                          Local businesses also participated in the bayou fun and my favorite fashion stores were Dutchess Intimates Boutique, Simply Smashing and Urban Girl.  They were all kind enough for me to take some pictures of what they had to offer the huge crowd that weekend.

Dutchess Intimates Boutique

I was impressed at this boutique’s selection and affordable prices.  The store was very classy and carried everyday wear to sexy wear.  The store owner Melanie was knowledgeable about her stuff.  After visiting I can say that I would be willing to cheat on my big-name designer store with Dutchess for my next intimate apparel need.

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-Urban Girl

395 E. Campbell Ave

A perfect location, Urban Girl was right dab in the middle of the festival.  My accessory favorite was this sparkly purple-flower bag.  I knew I had to leave before my obsession with handbags took over.  I did catch a picture of this ripped-effect shirt I thought was interesting on my way out.

Simply Smashing!

It didn’t take me more than two minutes to realize that the shop owner Deb Rohzen knew how to intice her lady customers.  The boutique was filled with sales racks and lots of cute gift items.  I loved this poodle-print upholstered bench.  I was even invited to their upcoming Sex and the City party.  How could you say no to that kind of fun?

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The festival included New Orleans style food and music including New Orleans Blues, Country Cajun, and Zydeco.

It goes to show that you don’t have to travel far to have fun and support local designers and businesses.

Written by Amanda Holst

Hourglass

Wide hips and busts describe your body type, you lucky lady.  A narrow waist finishes off the final detail to your hourglass figure and Marilyn Monroe, the late Sophia Lauren, and Scarlet Johansson all share your desired silhouette, making just about any traditional bathing suit flatter your shape.  Pick a simple halter maillot style and try a print at the bust if you are looking to highlight your bust line.

Pear-Shaped

It’s awkward to compare your body type to a fruit, but anyone who has this shape can relate to the larger hips, smaller shoulders, and a larger waist-to-shoulder ratio that comes with this type.  Giving off the illusion of a waistline is the key operative for this bathing suit mission and the pear shaped body would bode well with a one-piece tummy control.

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Small-Busted

Halter or triangle-shaped bikini tops will enhance any small-busted dilemma.  Padding or frills can add fullness to your bust line, while the skinny tube-top bandeau style can add comfort and confidence.

Apple-Shaped

Another comparison to a fruit, the apple body frame has small hips to go with her broad shoulders.  Finding ways to slim your abdomen by investing in tankinis or skirtinis might be a good option for you.  Look for a suit that is cut straight across the middle and try to mismatch solids and patterns to give off a more balanced look.

Plump-Bottom

Is your bottom bigger than your top half?  If this is the case, proportioning the two halves is the solution.  The goal here is to minimize your hips and thighs.  Tame those curves by trying a tankini that is longer than usual and pair it with a skirt bottom.  Boy shorts are also a great way to flatter a full-bottomed body type.

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Slim/Athletic

You may struggle for curves and a bust line, but that doesn’t mean you can’t flatter your boyish figure.  Creating curves and a feminine look will break up the monogamy of your shoulders, waist, and hips.  Pick tops that have ruffles or go with a halter top, which enhances your bust line.  Boy shorts or bottoms with ties on the side can also give off a curvier you.

Perspective by Amanda Holst

Fashion 101

Click on photos for photo credits

Helium: Jewelry designing is so far away from geography and library and information science where you hold your degrees, can you tell me how that happened?

Christine Aiko Beck: When I was in grad school I picked up beading again.  I had taken jewelry classes over the years but I became inspired by a beading book that my aunt in Japan gave to me.  It was all in Japanese and I could read only a little of it.  I just started copied the designs in the book and found a new passion for creating.  It became a creative outlet.  The jewelry just kept calling at me and turned into this important part of my life.  I want to be a successful creative entrepreneur.

H:  What is the connection between fashion and jewelry?

CAB: It’s adornment. You can have a piece of jewelry or an accessory really be a statement piece to your outfit.  With my jewelry it’s very subtle and simple and I don’t tend to have a lot of chunky, over-sized pieces.  However my jewelry can also make a statement that you can be wearing a little black dress and that all you want to look at is the earrings that they are wearing.

H: Where do you get your inspiration for your pieces?

CAB: Mostly from the stones themselves I buy.

Some of the jewelry that I make don’t have any stones and have all metal;

My process generally is to go to source my supplies my stones, chains, and what not? It usually has to speak to me and I don’t always don’t know what its going to be when I buy it, but I know I have to have it.  I have a whole bunch of stuff on my worktable and things sort of come together organically.

I am really inspired by the Japanese aesthetic, both the natural organic and the simple and elegant as well.

H: Tell us about your style?

CAB: My style is definitely simple, elegant, subtle, there is organicness to it, without being overly on the organic side.

I also think its sweet without being syrupy sweet.  Something that is clean and simple and pretty.

H: What makes you different from other jewelry designers?

CAB: Sometimes other designers have a harder edge, which I like but not what comes out of me, and sometimes they like more chunky and heavy.  It depends on your style, but I don’t over-design and I pay attention to details.  I put little stones at the end of the chain that you don’t notice immediately but the extra- added thought is like a little secret that I try to incorporate.

H: You were born in England and journeyed to Japan while growing up: How has your multicultural background influenced your designs?

CAB: I think it did so in a lot of ways that I really didn’t discovery until later on.  I think that being mixed race and traveling a lot affected me much later.  My grandparents were traditional mikan farmers (Japanese mandarins) with a Japanese traditional home.  I traveled, ate the different food, and heard the language in Japan.  I also collected wooden kokeshi dolls.  The craftsmanship has struck a chord with me.

H:What was the defining moment where you knew you were going to make it as a designer?

CAB: There came a point where I knew I couldn’t dabble in part time work.  Working at a job and trying to make a business couldn’t coincide. I was pulled too many ways and my heart was in jewelry. There is something amazing about creating something and getting paid for it.  It’s definitely a labor of love.

H: What are you showing at Charity Fashion Show this weekend?

CAB: Pieces of pyrite; it’s what most people know as fool’s gold.  It’s this stone that has a crystallized formation that comes out looking like gold.

I am also showing lightly oxidized sterling silver, which I am being drawn to lately and a nice long gold necklace with a piece of labradorite.

H: What is in the future for Aiko Designs?

CAB: I’ve been doing a few tradeshows and I am planning to do some more.  I’m trying to get into the bridal market because I think my jewelry would go really well for the nontraditional bride.  I am also thinking about creating

another line of jewelry to develop in the summer and introduce in the fall.

H: You mix a lot of metals, for example rose gold plated chains with sterling silver, are you a believer in contrast?

CAB: I love the contrast. I’m running across a lot of people who are just silver or just gold and I am trying to get them used to the fact that it’s okay to wear both.  I personally mix black, copper, gold, and silver pieces.  I say why not?

H: What are your favorite pieces of jewelry outside your collection?

CAB: When I go to tradeshows I am trading with other designers or buying outright.  I have been wearing a pair earrings nonstop and a copper powder-coated ring from Cynthia Jones Jewelry from Santa Fe.  Other designers here in San Francisco that I admire are Joy O Designs and Kate Ellen Metalsmithing & Design.

H: Any advice to our readers about turning something they love into a business?

CAB: You have to be committed and you have to love what you are doing; in order to get through some of the struggles you are definitely going to come across. If you have the desire to make it you will.  I always wanted to be an artist and I couldn’t draw or paint and veered in another direction.  Then I found a creative outlet through jewelry.  If I didn’t love it I wouldn’t still be doing it.

Interview by Amanda Holst

All photos courtesy of Aiko Designs

Aiko Designs will also be at the Designer Clothing Sale @ Stanford on May 16, from noon to 4 pm