Sheila's Fashion Sense

3 Worst Fashion Blunders

2009-04-14T13:14:00.000-07:00

1. Trapped in the Past: If you are holding on to clothes or hairdos from the past that you can’t let go, now is the time to give them up. Worst yet, if you have a closet full of clothes that you haven’t worn in years that you keep telling yourself you will fit into again you are deluding yourself. Your wardrobe will never be functional until you purge yourself of all outdated and ill-fitting items.

2. Devaluing & Judging: Stylish, well-dressed women come in different heights, shapes and sizes. Unlike her counterpart who frets over not fitting into the ‘perfect’ dress size, a well-dressed, confident woman takes care of the body she was born into and buys clothing styles that complement it. Comparing your body to how it looked twenty years ago or to the latest ‘hot’ model or actor is not only a fashion disaster; it is also a recipe for depression. Beauty is an inside job and women who are not on a quest for perfection automatically become more attractive.

Right now, stop waiting to lose those extra pounds or rid yourself of those new facial lines before you can buy that wow outfit; embrace who you are and the body you have. Treat your body with respect, dress it with appreciation, live in the present and stop worshiping unrealistic expectations.

3. Denial: There are quite a few women who a have deluded themselves into believing that appearance is not important. For some reason they have equated looking great with selfishness. Dressing your body is an act of self care and it shows that you appreciate yourself and your body enough to make it look as good as it can. Clothes are a necessity– we can’t go out without them. It makes sense then, to take care and put effort into choosing the best styles, colors and fabrics that make us feel wonderful.

3 Tricks to Look Slimmer - The Art of Creating Illusions

2009-01-14T09:09:00.000-08:00

What comes to mind when you think of ‘creating illusions?’ If you’re like most people you probably think of magicians and tricks. Illusions are created with art, photographs and with clothing. Don’t underestimate how much better you can look simply by wearing the right combination of lines. No matter what your size, choosing clothing with flattering lines will make your body look better instantly.

If you’ve gained a few pounds over the holidays that you’d like to hide while you are in the process of getting rid of them, I have a few ideas you can use to trick the eye and make you appear slimmer.

1. Lines: The eye naturally follows lines and all clothing has lines. The lines in clothing are necklines, pockets, sleeves, hems, etc. For example, a sweater that has v-neckline will draw the eye downward creating a long line, the look of a longer neck, longer face and slimmer upper body. By contrast a turtleneck creates a short, horizontal line that stops eye and makes the face appear fuller, the upper body bigger and the neck shorter. Using this concept alone you can create a slimmer upper body by sticking to tops with vertical lines that create the look of length; and by stashing the turtlenecks until you feel a little slimmer.

2. Color: A basic rule of color is that black recedes and white advances. In clothing this is important because it means that darker colors will make the wearer appear smaller and lighter clothing will make the wearer look larger. Wearing black to look slimmer is a trick that has sometimes been over used. Black does have a slimming effect but too much black can be dreary and create a washed out look if the proper makeup is not worn.

Sometimes women who want to look smaller try squeezing into a smaller size which defeats the purpose. Tight clothing will always make you look larger. It is much more flattering to wear clothing that fits well and glides over the body rather that sticking to it. Wear dark colors on the places you want to appear smaller but be sure not to wear them tight. For example, if you are a triangle shape with a larger lower body than upper body and you want your lower body to appear smaller, wear a light color top with dark pants or skirt. For an overall taller and slimmer look, dress in the same color (or shades of the same color) from head to toe.

3. Proportion and Scale: A simple explanation of proportion and scale is that an object seen next to other objects appears either larger or smaller depending on the size of the objects that appear next to them. The size of a handbag in relation to the woman carrying it is a good example of this. A large woman carrying a small handbag will appear larger. To avoid looking larger when wearing prints, keep them in proportion to your size.

Would you like to learn more about how to use the lines
in clothing to your advantage? Sign up for my ecourse -
Style and Fashion - The Art of Creating Illusions.

Style and Fashion E-course

Beauty from the Inside Out

2008-11-23T13:46:00.000-08:00

Are you tired of trying diet after diet and either not being able to lose or losing weight and gaining it back?

Since we all know that diets don’t work wouldn’t you like to learn how reach a weight where you feel comfortable, healthy and in love (or at least ‘like’) with your body without having to give up or drastically cut down your eating?

I am offering a wonderful program that will help you learn more about how to get your body healthy and in the condition you want and help you overcome any obstacles that are associated with getting you there.

The goal of the group is to provide a safe place to meet, learn, set goals and get motivation in attaining a healthy body weight and learn how to feel good about the body you have.

The group coaching class will consist of six interactive sessions that will occur over the telephone with a small group of ten people. Sheila will create a supportive learning environment that will provide participants with the opportunity to explore together issues of reaching and maintaining a healthy body weight, being in good physical condition and having a healthy body image.

You, as a participant, will be guided through a participatory process of exploring where you are presently, clarifying desired outcomes, identifying the obstacles to success and establishing an effective action plan to move ahead.

How it works:
You will meet other participants via a group forum ahead a few days before the conference begins.

You will be emailed a teleconference phone number to call at a specified time, once a week for six weeks, where you will be greeted by me and the group. Each week I will bring information regarding a specific topic to the group and you, along with all participants will have the opportunity ask questions and express your relationship to the topic.

The teleconference offers the benefit of coming to the group as casual as you want in the comfort of your own home or office.

*Important The group is limited to ten participants; therefore, in order to maintain an effective group coaching experience I am accepting participants who are:

Positive
Punctual
Open-minded
Dedicated ( who will attend all sessions, participate and set goals)
Confidential

*Topics: Exercise and How it Works, Getting and Staying Motivated, Reducing Stress, Eliminating Extra Calories Easily, How to fall in Love with Your Body, Beauty from the Inside Out

Fee: $97 for 6 weeks, one one-hour session per wk (introductory fee).
Regular price is $300

Meeting Dates: January 10, 17 &24 February 7, 14 &21 - 2009

Will Meet: Saturdays, 12 noon, EST

Sign Me Up

This group is closed. If you'd like to put your name on a waiting
list for the next one please email me at sheila@sheilasfashionsense.com

Handbag Rules

2008-11-23T13:41:00.000-08:00

Accessories should be chosen with care and handbags are no exception. The right handbag can add instant pizzazz to your look. Smart women choose their handbags carefully and consciously match them with their outfit. Every woman should have at least one good quality classic handbag in a neutral color. This handbag shouldn’t stand out as being in the latest style but shouldn’t be outdated either. Here are other tips:

1. Your bag should match your outfit. This means that printed or embellished bags should be worn with plain colors. For example, if you are wearing a plain brown jacket and plaid brown pants the handbag you carry should be in a plain color. Any sort of decoration on a bag will clash and look gaudy.

2. Your bag should also match your outfit in weight. Heavy bags should be worn with heavy clothing and lighter bags with lighter clothing. Your bag should also match your outfit in style as well. For example, a casual bag goes with casual clothes.

3. Your bag should be in proportion with your size. Large women look better carrying large bags and small women look better with smaller bags. A small woman will be over powered with a large bag as large women will appear larger carrying a tiny bag. To make sure your bag is proportion to your size look in the mirror.

More Fashion

Could You Be Damaging Your Skin?

2008-09-30T18:01:00.000-07:00

I will be bold enough to say that, “all women want clear, smooth skin”. The fact of the matter is that most women can have great skin if they dedicate themselves to self-care.

Clear skin is not necessarily young skin, it is skin that looks and feels healthy. It is the result of great self-care. A woman who has great skin is someone who knows that what she puts into her body has a direct influence on how her skin looks and feels. She takes care of her body by exercising regularly and avoids excess sweets and fats.

Although using good skin care will certainly improve the look and feel of your skin, it will not pay up for lack of proper self-care. Great skin comes from dedication to self-care. Self-care also means avoiding a chaotic lifestyle which involves getting little sleep, smoking, excessive drinking and sun exposure.

Sometimes women who take great care of themselves still make some skincare boo boos. Here are just a few:

1. Leaving Makeup On when going to bed is something that many women do without thinking. Missing this final step in a skincare routine can lead to blemishes.

2. Tugging on the Eye Area can damage the delicate area under the eye and cause premature wrinkling. Eye cream should be patted on around the eye area very gently.

3. Using Regular Body Soap on the face can be very drying. Use a cleansing cream that is specially formulated for your skin type.

'Never before has the attainment of a smooth, acne-free, youthful, and gorgeous complexion been as simple, as inexpensive as now'…

Check It out

Sheila's Fashion Sense

5 Ways to Luscious Hair after Summer Heat

2008-08-28T17:14:00.000-07:00

Now that summer is drawing to a close have you noticed a change in how your hair feels or looks? Hair texture can change with the seasons, especially summer and winter. Spending time in the hot summer sun feels great but it can be damaging to your hair. Fixing dry frazzled hair or limp hair means making a few changes. Here are some hints that will help:

1. If you spent a lot of time in the sun and/ or in chlorinated water this summer your hair might be looking dry (chlorine is damaging). To get it back to looking its best use a deep conditioner. A deep conditioner helps reverse the damage done to hair. Salon product lines such as Matrix or Redken will have deep conditioners.

If you plan to continue to swim in chlorinated water and you want to prevent damage, start by wearing a bathing cap, apply a leave in conditioner to your hair before you swim and rinse your hair as soon as you leave the pool. If you choose to a use anti-chlorine shampoo only use it once a week because it can strip hair of essential oils.

2. Give your hair a break from blowing drying by letting your hair air dry a couple times a week – weekends for example.

3. Deep condition at least once a week.

4. If your scalp is itchy after spending time in the summer sun skip a few days between shampoos.

5. If you haven’t changed your shampoo and conditioner since last winter and you feel your hair is being weighed down try a lighter formula. Get a new hair style – cut it shorter if possible and start anew.

www.sheilasfashionsense.com

Effortless Dressing

2008-07-14T17:53:00.000-07:00

Effortless Dressing means three things:

#1 means knowing how to shop to get the pieces that look great on you, you feel comfortable wearing, and doing it without stress. Many women, who dress well, do it at a cost. Others buy a lot of clothes but never feel they look good. They use excess energy and excess money. They create stress by buying the latest fashions as they are presented in the department store without knowing if the style is suitable for them. Even if the styles look great on them, and they seldom do, what happens with this method of shopping is being left with outfits that will grow old quickly and require that a whole new wardrobe be bought the next season. Lots of money gets spent with little to show for it. If the pieces weren’t the right style or fit, these pieces are hung in the closet never worn.

Many women like to shop for clothes but only when clothes fit properly and they know what will look great on them. Shopping is not a pleasure when nothing fits and you are unsure of suitable styles.

Knowing how to shop (to get what you want and need) will set you up with a closet full of clothes that you will love to wear.

# 2, means deciding in advance your best styles, your fashion personality and your lifestyle needs. When you know the styles that look best on you, your fashion personality and your lifestyle needs you are less likely to make purchases that take up room in your closet.

#3, means knowing where to shop to get your best styles and the best quality. Knowing where to shop saves a lot of time. Unless you have a lot of time to spare you won’t want to be wasting time running from store to store. Quality clothing, although it might cost more, will last longer and will hang better. Clothes that hang well are much more figure flattering.

Deciding what to wear in advance and not throwing things together makes dressing effortless. This however takes a little planning. Most people you meet during the day will not remember the specific outfit you wore but the overall impression your look created. And how you look depends on how much time was taken with your wardrobe. Spend the time up front to lessen early morning stress.

7 Fashion Blunders Guaranteed To Age You

2008-02-26T17:27:00.000-08:00

1. Frumpy Handbag

When was the last time you bought a new handbag? If it wasn’t this year or last year, your handbag might need an update. Time and time again, women pay little attention to their handbags. They seldom update them or they update their handbag but don’t update their wardrobe.

If you are a busy woman, the last thing on your mind might be your handbag. However, if you want to look stylish pay particular attention to it. Your handbag(s) should coordinate with your outfit and be in proportion to your body size. You know you’re in trouble if your handbag in any way resembles your grandmother’s.

2. Perms

Tight frizzy perms will age you and outdate you in an instant. Keep your hairstyle current and in a style that suits your face shape.

3. Tiny gold chains

Small gold chains are outdated. You may have paid a lot of money for your chain or it might have sentimental value, but if you don’t want to age yourself, put it away. Choose accessories that are more fashionable.

4. Loafers

Loafers may be comfortable and you have probably become attached to them over the years, but let’s face it – they are aging. They pull you back into another decade.

5. Decorative Sweaters

Fancy embroidered sweaters will not only make you appear larger, they will add a few years on your age. Clean your closet and get rid of any such sweaters and replace them with a more fashionable type.

6. Elastic Waist Pants

When was the last time you saw a fashionable woman wearing pants with an elastic waist? The answer to that is, ‘never.” They may be more comfortable if you have gained a little weight – they will make you appear larger and ten years older.

7. Oversized Tops

Many women try to hide their bodies under clothing that is too large, thinking they will look slimmer. The opposite is true. Large shapeless tops will not only make you look bigger they will also make you look matronly. A top that is form fitting (not clingy) that rides over bumps is much younger looking and more slimming.

Pants That Look Great

2008-02-26T17:26:00.000-08:00

Pants That Look Great

No matter what your size there are pants that will look great on you and

pants you should avoid. The problem with finding pants that fit well is

that we are all different. It isn't easy to slot yourself into a category of long

legs or short legs. You might have long legs and a thick waist or

long legs and a short waist. Or you could have short legs and thick thighs

or short legs and slim thighs.

To find the best pants for you it's best to look at one aspect at a time. For

example, if you have short legs you will first want to find the styles that are

best for short legs. If that's it, then you're finished. If you have also have

large hips you'll want to find styles that are best for short legs and large

hips. If you have short legs, large hips and a long waist then you have

more considerations. It's a matter of time and perserverance.

Lets look at some pant styles and determine which are best for you.

The Cropped Pant is best suited to those who have long slim legs

and want to make them look a little shorter. Avoid them if you have

short legs or large hips. The cropped style has a tendency to make

legs look shorter and hips look larger.

High Waist Pants: are perfect for those with a long waist. Your legs can be

large or small as long as your waist is slim and long. These pants will conceal

large thighs and make you look slimmer as long as you aren't carrying weight

around the waist. Usually a Triangle shape.

The Jumpsuit: Is great for those who want to

look slimmer. It will look great on those who are Triangle

shape( larger hips and small bust). If you are really slim,

you'll want to stay away from this style.

Wide Leg Pants and Vest: This a great style for those who want to look great

and feel comfortable. The head-to-toe color is slimming and is great for the Oval,

Inverted and Hourglass body shapes. It is not flattering for the the Triangle and

Rectangle shapes.

Styles from www.anntaylorloft.com and www.spiegel.com.

Is Your Hosiery Tying You Up in Knots?

2008-02-26T17:19:00.000-08:00

When temperatures drop we need to dig out our hosiery. Since we are almost into the third month of winter you either have your hosiery under control or you are totally frustrated. If you are the type who never thinks about what you will wear the next day you probably, on occasion, have been irritated because you didn’t have the right color hose, the right type or no hose you could wear.
When you organize your hosiery you will never have this problem again. A large part of being well dressed is being organized, starting with your hosiery. Here are a few tips to get your hosiery under control.

1. Take inventory: Get rid of every pair of hose, tights, and socks you don’t wear, is too worn to wear and toss socks that don’t have a match. Make a list of what you need and restock.

2. Separate and Label: Separate your hose by color and store in zip lock bags. Separate your socks and tights by color and style and store in separate bags.

3. Keep the Wrapping: When you find a style of hose you like keep the packaging so you’ll know what to buy next time.

4. Buy the Same Brand: When you buy the same brand of socks and the washer eats them you will always be able to find a buddy for the lost sock.

5. Have Extras: If by some chance you get too busy and your supply gets low or you forget to do a wash, it helps to have extra pairs of hosiery, tights and socks ready.

When it comes to being well-dressed it is also important that you wear hosiery that coordinates with your outfit. Rethink wearing and hosiery that makes your legs stand out, such as bright colors, white or lace. Even though there are times when such hosiery can work, those times are seldom. In most instances wearing this type of hose is not flattering.

Are You Wearing That?

2007-10-30T15:52:00.000-07:00

Casual dressing is often confused with ‘anything goes”. If you haven’t put much thought into it and follow those rules, you may not be looking your best. Dressing casually can be done and done well by following casual dressing guidelines.
Over the past few years casual dressing has been taken to the workplace which makes it particularly important that casual not be tied to sloppy.
Trade in your old jeans, baggy T-shirts and mismatched pieces for a stylish, casual look.
1. Take pride in how you dress no matter where you go. Buy casual clothing with the same care as you buy business clothes. Wear your scruffy clothing only when you are doing outside chores around the house.

2. Wash new T-shirts before you wear them to protect yourself against skin irritations. Get rid of T-shirts when they lose their shape. Fold delicate knitted garments in a cupboard or wardrobe, hanging them will lose their shape.

3. If you are dressing casually make sure you are wearing all casual pieces. For example, a casual outfit calls for a casual handbag and casual footwear. Don’t make the mistake of mixing elements of two styles.

4. Pay attention to proportion. Your shoes and pants should be in proportion with each other. For example, you will wear a different shoe style with a narrow pant than you will wear with wide leg.

5. Wear jogging suits only when you are jogging or exercising. They are not meant for shopping, travelling or weekend wear.

Sheila's Fashion Sense

Top 10 Fashion Picks For Fall

2007-09-06T15:53:00.000-07:00

Top 10 Fashion Picks For Fall

1. The Vest

The vest is a great to add interest to a pants and skirt

2.The Color Grey

The color grey is very popular this season and can be

spiced up by adding color.

3. The Statement Coat

You will find coats in lots of different prints and

designs this season.

4. Bows

Bows are popular and come in large and small sizes. Don't wear

bows if you have a large bust or double chin.

5. Capes

Capes are very popular and will look best on

those who farirly slender.

6. Full Skirts

Full skirts are worn alone and as part of a suit. Stay away from

them if you have large hips and tummy.

7.Fur

Wearing fur can be fun. Do take into consideration that fur

will make you appear larger.

look larger.

8. Knits

Knits are big this fall and come in all shapes and sizes. As

with fur, knits tend to add bulk.

9. Shoes

Shoes are fun and the style changes often. Stacked

heels are still popular for fall.

________________________________

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Sheila Dicks is an Image and Wardrobe consultant

who helps men and women reach their full potential

and gain greater self-confidence by finding their

beauty from the inside out. You can find her at

http://www.sheilasfashionsense.com ,

http://www.mensfashion101.com ,

http://www.sheiladicks.com

_____________________________________________

Beauty Mistakes You Won’t Want to Make

2007-08-16T07:07:00.000-07:00

Beautiful faces come in all shapes, colors and sizes. Beauty is magnified when makeup is applied correctly. Makeup has the ability to hide skin imperfections, brighten and make skin appear more youthful. Makeup acts as a beauty enhancement.

However,

When makeup is used incorrectly it has the power to dull complexions, bring out imperfections and create a harsh look. In most instances, people won’t tell you your makeup is gaudy – it is up to you to find out how to apply if properly and ask someone you can trust how your makeup looks.

To get started here are some common mistakes to look for:

1. Eyeliner: Eyeliner is a great makeup tool but when not used properly it can make you look awful. Firstly, it should match your coloring. If you have a light complexion and light hair go easy. Stay away from dark wide eyeliner. Secondly, as you get older eyeliner should be used sparingly. There’s nothing that will age you more that dark eyeliner. Lastly, for best results use a thin line in the lashes to make the lashes look fuller.

2. Lip liner: Lip liner is meant to define the lips – to create an even line and keep lipstick from bleeding. For the best looking lips your lip liner should not be visible. Lips that are outlined with dark liner are aging and look gaudy.

3. Foundation: Foundation is the perfect product to create a flawless complexion. Foundation that is visible or is a different color than your skin is not appealing. The trick is to make sure it matches your skin tone exactly and apply it sparingly. For best results, exfoliate your skin regularly and use a moisturizer before you apply foundation.

4. Eyebrows: Eyebrows are so important to the overall look of the face that it’s worth mentioning twice. They should match your hair color, not be drawn on and not be too small. The best eyebrows begin above the inner corner of the eye and end at the outer corner.

5. Mascara: Clumpy mascara flakes and makes eyes look messy. Mascara is a great lash lengthener and used sparingly can make eyes come alive.

6. Eye shadow: Too much frosty eye shadow makes eyes look pale on younger women. On older women because it attracts light, it brings attention to wrinkles.

7. Check It: Before leaving home check your makeup first in a full length mirror making sure it matches your outfit in occasion and intensity and then in daylight for clarity.

More Fashion

Mens Shoes - How to Recognize Well-Made Shoes

2007-06-11T17:37:00.000-07:00

Shoes are a very important part of your wardrobe and say a lot about your sense of style. Well made shoes signal your attention to detail and your appreciation of quality. You can recognize quality shoes by these 4 main elements: Leather, Stitching, Soles and Lining.

Leather: The quality of the shoe’s leather is the most important aspect of a great looking shoe. Good leather is smooth, pliable, and resilient, has a consistent grain and feels nice to touch. Look closely at the feel and the look of the leather before you buy.

Stitching: Stitching should be hidden, unless it is there for decoration purposes. The best quality shoes have stitching that is completely concealed. Exposed stitching signifies poor craftsmanship.

Soles: The soles of shoes should be made of leather and should be attached to the shoe with stitching and not glued. Leather sole thicknesses are different depending on the style of the shoe. The thickness and style shoe you choose depends on personal preference. Good soles are not totally black and if you find a pair that is, check for imperfections it could be painted black to hide flaws.

Lining: Good shoes are lined with high quality calfskin that folds smoothly into the shoe.
More Men's Fashion

Mens Fashion - Classic Collars

2007-04-11T19:10:00.000-07:00

When buying a dress skirt two important features you should consider are the shape and size of the collar. The shape and size of the collar you choose is important because it should flatter the shape of your face and the length of your neck to create balance. If you have a long face and neck for example, you will want to balance the length of your face by choosing a wide spread collar with shorter points.

Button-Down
This is the most casual of all collar styles because of its relaxed appearance and collar buttons. Button-down shirts are worn with sporty jackets and can be worn without a tie.

Straight
This collar is the most versatile collar because it can be worn with suits, sports jackets and can be worn without a tie.

Spread
The collar is considered dressier because the points of the collar are a little wider apart. This collar must be worn with a tie to fill in the gap.

Tab
It gets its name from the tab that connects the collar points behind the knot of the tie. Should be worn with a tie.

White Contrast
A white collar is named so because it is in contrast with the patterned or colored fabric of the rest of the shirt.

Band
Although this type of collar (which is really a shirt without a collar) is sometimes worn as casual and formal, it is best reserved for casual wear.

www.mensfashion101.com

Top 10 Fashion Picks For Spring

2007-03-29T17:51:00.000-07:00

1. The Nautical Look

The nautical look - red, white and blue always look great together

and this Spring they are trendy. You can add excitement to your

nautical wardrobe by adding an red, white or blue accessory in

patent leater ( another trend this season). This look is most appropriate

for weekend dressing. The office is not a place to be trendy.

2. Wide Pant

Although the slim pant is fashionable this season, it is not a great look for

everyone. The good news is wide leg pants are equally fashionable
and look great on most body shapes. Pair these pants with a

great worn with a shrunken jacket or short top.

3. Pumps and Flats

Pumps and flats are both hot this season. Wear pumps with longer skirts

and dresses and flats with pants and shorter skirts.

4. Metalics

Metalics are still popular and are great to add interest to your wardrobe

in accessories - shoes, handbags and belts. These looks are also best

for after hours.

5. Belts

Wide belts are very popular this season. Worn over big tops or with dresses

they look great. Only wear this look if you have a slim waistline -the wideness

of the belt will make your waist look larger.

6. Geoprint

A geoprint in contrasting colors looks especially great on those that have a
natural dark/light contrast in skin and hair color ( dark hair/light skin).

7. Babydoll

The babydoll look is great to hide a tummy but will make a large busted person

look larger.

8. Trench

The trench coat is definately a classic and this season it is very popular.

Buy one in a neutral color and longer length.You will wear it for years.

9. Pokadots

Pokadots are so refreshing and are fantastic paired with neutrals.

Empire Waist Dresses

The empire waist is great for comfort and is best suited to leisure occasions.

Skin Care: Caring For Your Skin During Winter

2007-02-05T17:48:00.000-08:00

When temperatures drop it is time to think of how cold weather, chilling winds and dry air will affect your skin. We naturally think of bundling up during those frosty months but there are a few other considerations.

1. Keep your face protected by using heavier moisturizers, especially if you have dry skin. Always wear foundation when weathering the cold – give your face that extra protection. Don’t forget the rest of your skin and use body washes instead of harsh soaps. Use lukewarm water and keep hot water off your face and body – it’s drying in the best of times. Apply moisturizer after showering, while you skin is still damp.

2. During the winter the UV rays reflecting off the snow have an added ability to damage your skin. While skiing, snowboarding or enjoying any outdoor sports remember to wear a SPF of 15 or more. Don’t forget that UV rays can harm your eyes as well, so keep them protected with sunglasses.

3. Keep your hands dry and warm during the winter months by always wearing gloves and keep moisturizer close at all times and reapply often.

4. Winter is the worst time of the year to keep nails in good shape. To avoid brittle nails moisturize your cuticles before going to bed (I use olive oil). Always protect your hands with rubber gloves when you use cleaning products. Some are harsh and will seep into your nails and make them brittle.
5. Keep your lips protected from dry, cold air by wearing lipstick regularly. Make a habit of reapplying lipstick so your lips area always covered (except when you sleep) and you will never have chapped lips.

6. Exfoliate your face and body regularly to smooth away dry patches or prevent them.

7. Visit a spa and get pampered.

www.mensfashion101.com
www.sheilasfashionsense.com
www.sheiladicks.com

Men' Fashion

2007-01-14T14:03:00.000-08:00

Check out my new site
Men's Fashion 101

Syles That Suit Every Body Shape

2006-11-27T16:31:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered why models are all tall and thin?

It's not because it's more attractive. Actually, studies have

shown that men are attracted to women who have curves

rather than pencil thin women. Designers hire tall thin models

to show their clothes because that body type looks good in all

clothing styles. Designers want their clothes to look as perfect

as possible so they hire models who look great in everything.

In the real world women are different shapes and sizes and

all clothing styles do not look great on most women. That is

why a women who knows how to dress well, also knows her

body type and how to accentuate her assets. No matter

what size or shape you are, you will look one hundred percent

better when you use clothing shapes to your advantage.

There are however, a few and a very few, styles that most

any woman can wear and look great. These are 3 that I chose:

The jacket: This jacket will look great on most body types

because of its length. It's not too long for the petite woman

or too short for a lady with large hips. It has a slimming

effect, but will not minimize the upper body enough to affect

the triangle body shape. The vertical lines are great for the

hourglass, inverted triangle and the oval body shapes.

The Pant: The pant is great to conceal large hips because it

evens out the width at the bottom of the leg. It will conceal

large legs and will add a width for the inverted triangles who

are small at the bottom.

The Skirt: The skirt creates a long line making creating

a look of height. It is great to conceal large hips (in a darker

color and not worn tight) and will even out the inverted

triangle at the very bottom where it has a little flare.

Most styles do not look great on every body shape and these

three are just some of the few. To look your best, take your

body type and your height into account when you shop. You

won't be able to wear all the styles but the styles you can

wear will look amazing.

Styles from www.anntaylorloft.com

and www.barriepace.com

NEED HELP WITH YOUR WARDROBE?

learn how to shop smart & save m@ney. Book an
Image Consultation with me
to find out
how to choose styles that are perfect for you.
What you'll learn will save you
shopping time,
you'll look better and you'll know what to buy
and what not to buy not only for this fall
but for every season after.

How To Conceal A Protruding Tummy

2006-11-27T16:20:00.000-08:00

To Conceal a Tummy

Don't: Wear tops tucked in
pleated pants, tight pants or belts.

Do: Wear fitted jackets,
tunic tops and flat front pants.

Do:Wear tops that end just
under your tummy. If the material is clingy don't let it

drape over your tummy (it will make your tummy appear

larger instantly). Stay away from clingy material.

Do: Wear shaped dresses, in a moderately stiff fabric, that
glide over the tummy area.

To Conceal Large Hips

Don't: Wear leggings, patterns,
light colours on the bottom or narrow pants.
Do: Try pants without pleats or pockets
and narrow skirts that are form fitting but not tight.

Do: Wear wide leg pants, with a moderate rise.

You will shop smarter when you:

1. Know the styles that are best for you.

2. Don't buying on impulse

3. Stop buying too many trendy items

4. Shop with your hair done and makeup on. It will

seem that nothing looks good on you if you don't.

5 Wear shoes that are easy to get on and off

5 Ways to Jazz Up Your Style

2006-10-24T17:03:00.000-07:00

Do you feel like you are in a fashion rut? You buy way too many clothes in one color, everything you have in your closet looks the same and you struggle to find something to wear, let alone find something that makes you feel good? If this is true, it’s time to add some excitement to your wardrobe.

Every morning when you leave your home you deserve to feel great about what you’re wearing. This doesn’t mean that you have to be dressed in expensive or designer clothing; it does mean that you will have chosen a clothing style that suits you and is in a color that makes your skin glow.

To jazz up your style start with:

1. Getting to know the colors that look great on you. When you wear colors
that suit your skin tone your skin looks more radiant, fine lines, dark circles and wrinkles are less apparent. Wearing the wrong colors (a mistake many women make) will make your skin look sallow, drab and lines and wrinkles will stand out. Before you purchase an outfit be sure the color will make your skin look radiant. If you are one of those women who always buy the same color, use that color as a starting point and add a few colors at a time (from your color palette) to create interest in your wardrobe.

2. Wearing clothes that are flattering for your body shape: Choose clothes that bring out your positive features. Get to know your body shape and choose the styles that are best for it. When your clothing purchases are based on how the garment affects your body shape getting dressed is a thrill. Choosing the styles that suit your shape will make you look thinner, taller and younger. If you are wearing the wrong clothing styles you will look larger, frumpy and matronly.

3. Choosing accessories that complement your outfits. Accessories such as scarves, handbags, shoes, gloves and necklaces will bring any outfit alive – accessories have jassability!

4. Bringing the whole look together. Now that you have the right colors, style and accessories your hairstyle and makeup cannot be overlooked. Makeup should match in occasion and color. For example, lighter lipstick, eye shadow and blush for day and darker for evening. Lipstick and blush colors should be in the same color family (cool or warm) as your outfit. Your hairstyle should complement the color of your skin and also be in harmony with what you are wearing.

5. Creating a smart image with a winning smile and attitude. A genuine smile makes you appear more approachable. Those who treat others with respect and respect themselves are on the way to creating an image that is impeccable.

©Copyright 2006 Sheila Dicks

Sheila Dicks is an Image and Wardrobe consultant who helps women feel more confident by dressing to suit their body type. To get tips on how to dress slimmer and look fabulous visit her website at Sheila's Fashion Sense.

How to Wear High Heels

2006-10-02T15:26:00.000-07:00

By Sheila Dicks

One of the secrets of great looking legs is a fabulous pair of heels. The right heels will make your legs look longer, leaner and more graceful.” Well that’s great,” you say, “but how do I walk in them”? Many women like the look of high heels but stay away from them because they find them difficult to walk in and they don’t feel comfortable.

You can learn to walk in heels, feel comfortable simply by following these suggestions:

1. Buy the Right Size: Your shoes should not be tight enough that they pinch your feet and cause blisters, nor should they be big enough to slip off. Consider the height of the heel. Shoes that are 2 inches high are much more comfortable will be much easier to get used to than stilettos.

2. Get Used to Your Heels: Before you take to the streets in your new heels (especially if you have always worn flats) wear them around the house to get used to them. Wear them for a half hour a day for a few days on a flat surface (not on carpet).

3. Learn How to Walk: Start with your toes pointing straight ahead and keep your legs close together. If you are used to walking with your toes pointing outward this might take a little practice. Start by stepping on your heel, rolling smoothly onto the ball of your foot. Swing your arms as you walk, pay attention to your posture and look forward.

Coming Soon
Men's Fashion 101

How to Dress Well at a Discount

2006-09-28T17:22:00.000-07:00

by Sheila Dicks

We all know it’s much easier to look great when you have lots of money to spend on clothes (although having money to spend and lots of clothes doesn’t necessarily equal a great dresser). When money is tight you don’t have to settle for less. Looking great is possible without spending a lot of money if you shop wisely.

1. Start by shopping for clothes when they are on sale. End of the season sales usually have the biggest discounts of up to 50% off but don’t be lured just by the price tag. To get the most for your money hold out for the big discounts, a 15% discount is good, but not what you’re looking for if you’re a bargain hunter. Make sure what you buy fits well with what you already have, is the right color for you, and isn’t a fad that you will be unable to wear in 6 months.

2. Know which styles look great on you. Assess your body type and the styles that flatter your figure and buy only those that are great for you. Clothes that don’t make you look your absolute best aren’t a bargain.

3. Be a continuous shopper. Sound good? Shop regularly not with the intention to buy everything you see but to get a feel for what is fashionable, how looks are being put together and first and foremost to find bargains – real bargains, those that look great on you and you’ll be able to wear for a few years.

For more style advice go to How to Dress

Hair Care Tips for Summer Hair

2006-07-09T17:02:00.000-07:00

Wouldn’t it be nice if we could all have the hair we want? It’s my bet that even if we could choose we probably wouldn’t be satisfied, wishing that we had chosen something different. Depending on whether the newest style is straight or curly we are trying our best to make our hair something it’s not. For peace of mind, look for what’s right with your hair - the type and the color. Then learn how to take care of it to show its best features.

Excessive use of a blow dryer, curling iron, hot rollers and straightening iron will eventually damage your hair and make it dry and brittle. So will coloring, perming and relaxing strip your hair of moisture and nutrients.

For great looking hair use the correct hair products for you hair type. Shampoos come in different formulas to suit your hair type. Dry for damaged hair; extra body for normal fine hair, etc. If you have fine, straight hair for example, be cautious with conditioners, they will weigh your hair down; for best results, condition only the ends. For curly hair use a moisturizing shampoo and a conditioner specially formulated for curly hair.

When you wash your hair massage your scalp with your fingertips, which will stimulate the oil glands and help them work more efficiently.

For curly summertime hair, when the humidity makes hair want to frizz:

1. Smooth styling cream on damp hair
2. Take inch wide strips of damp hair at the ends, twirl up to the roots and then let go. Stay away from hair dryers – it encourages frizz.
3. The sun and chlorine can damage your hair. Use hair products that have sunscreen.

To fight the summer flatness of fine limp hair:

1.Stay away from conditioners and use an extra body shampoo.
2.Use a volumizing mousse and large rollers to keep your hair from lying flat to dry or dry with a blow dryer.
4. Use a finishing spray to keep the volume

One of the best ways to get healthy, shiny hair is to eat a healthy diet of protein rich foods and lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Don’t forget to drink lots of water.

Get More Beauty Tips

A Radiant Complexion in 5 Simple Steps

2006-06-08T07:58:00.000-07:00

A healthy, radiant complexion is nourished from the inside out by eating a balanced diet and drinking lots of water. How much your complexion glows also depends on how you take care of it; first with proper cleansing and moisturizing and second by not smoking and avoiding stress and sun exposure.

If you follow the steps below regularly, which will take less than 5 minutes a day, the results will be noticeable.

1. Cleansing: It is important to use a cleanser that is formulated for your skin type in order to get the best results. While a regular soap maybe great on the rest of your body your facial skin needs extra care.

Dry skin feels very tight and dry all over. Choose a creamy cleanser formulated for dry skin. The rich emollients will leave your skin feeling clean and soft. Also use extra emollient moisturizers and cleanse twice a day.
Normal skin is neither dry nor oily. Choose a cleanser and moisturizer that have balancing moisture formulated for normal skin. Even though your skin feels great, to keep it looking radiant, cleanse and moisturize regularly.
Combination skin is dry with oiliness in the t-zone - the forehead, nose and chin. To take care of this type of skin you’ll need products that both moisturize and prevent oil buildup.
If you notice that by noon your skin has become oily, then you have an oily complexion and will need oil control products that will keep your skin fresh longer and prevent oil buildup.

2. Exfoliate: To deep clean, condition and remove dead skin cells, exfoliate twice a week using a facial mask or scrub. A creamy scrub or mask that moisturizes and hydrates the skin is best for dry to normal skin types. Combination and oily skin types need a mask that deep cleans and controls oil.

3. Toner: Toners remove the last traces of cleaners and restore skin to its natural pH balance. Those with dry skin should avoid toners with alcohol.

4. Moisturize: All skin needs a good moisturizer to keep the natural oils balanced and skin looking fresh. Dry skin needs extra moisture, normal skin needs a balancing moisturizer and oily skin needs an oil-free moisturizer .

5. Foundation: This is the last step to even out your skin tone and protect your skin from the environment. Choose a color that is as close to your natural skin tone as possible. Try it along your jaw line for best results and look for a shade that blends with your skin. Foundation shouldn’t be visible.

There are also products on the market that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA’s), naturally derived from sugar cane, olives, milk, fruit and wine. Those products get rid of dead skin cells leaving fresher, newer looking skin. The benefits of using “age-fighting” creams are reduced surface wrinkles, soft skin and fading of “age spots”.

Follow this routine and you will be on your way to having healthy, radiant looking skin.
More Beauty Articles

©Copyright 2006 Sheila Dicks

Sheila Dicks is an Image and Wardrobe consultant who helps women feel more confident by dressing to suit their body type. To get tips on how to dress slimmer and find your best styles get a copy of her ebook “Image Makeover” at How To Dress or go to Sheila's Fashion Sense to get the Free Report “ 7 Things Your Girlfriends Won’t Tell You About Beauty and Fashion”.