Q. I’ve got a bit of a style conundrum. Every style “guru” I’ve read recommends adding a belt to make a waist appear thinner or more shapely. How do I do that if I’m built like Jennifer Lopez? Without a full skirt, the belt just highlights the prominence of my bum, which is not something that I’ve ever wanted to do. I’m tired of always wearing a full top (babydolls, men’s oxfords, tunics) with wide leg jeans or capris. I’d like to be cute once in a while. Any ideas?
A. Belts may be a huge trend this season, but that doesn’t mean they are for everyone. Cinching your waist tends to accentuate your bust, hips and rear - something not all of us are interested in. Women that are thick in the middle or short-waisted may also have trouble finding a flattering way to wear a belt. There are a few tricks, however, to wear a belt without drawing too much attention to your JLo-esque assets:
-
A thick belt draws more attention to your waist and anything above or below it (your bust and hips/rear); try wearing a skinny belt worn at your natural waist instead. (#4 below)
- Look for a belt that is a similar color to your clothing (#2 below)
- Look for a top that provides balance to your bum: a blousy shirt with a wide open collar, a boat neck top, etc. Try belting the top and letting it drape over your hips instead of tucking in the top and belting your pants. (#1 and #2 below)
- Wear a slim-fitting top with a belted full skirt to camouflage your rear (#6 below)
- Look for drapey dresses belted slightly higher than your natural waist (#3 below)
- Try wearing your belt hip-slung (#5 below)
1. Lafayette 148 New York Stretch Cotton Geri Blouse, $328 at
saks.com2. Madison Marcus Silk Lunar Top, $245 at
saks.com3. Sleeveless silk ruched dress, $148 at
bananarepublic.com4. Ribbed shawl cardigan, $89 at
bananarepublic.com 5. Ribbed cardigan & wide-leg jean at
bananarepublic.com 6. Belted high-waist skirt, $48 at
gap.com
Q. I read your site everyday and I love it! I have a shopping question, I know if there is anyone who knows the answer it’s you, so… I absolutely love the hat Vanessa Minnillo is wearing here. It’s a knit fedora and I like because it’s a little different. I have been searching online and can’t seem to find it or anything like it anywhere. Do you know where I can find this knit fedora or any other cool hats or sites that sell hats that aren’t too expensive to wear casually like she is?
Q. Do you have any ideas for a stylish way to wear an ID badge at work?
2.
3. 
5. 
6.
