Monday

It's cold, it's drizzling out and my alarm didn't go off - now realize my clock goes off Tuesday - Saturday so I need to fitz with it tonight when I get home (think it went wacko around Daylight Savings).

Hair is second day, finger combed and that's it.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match concealer in W1-3, philosophy the Supernatural in Beige, Cargo Matte BeachBlush in Tenerife, Victoria's Secret Beauty Rush Lip Gloss iN Strawberry Fizz, and Cover Girl LashBlast in black.

Black tank from Caslon, black and gray striped sweater from Banana Republic, denim trouswers from Gap, black booties from Sudini, silver hoops, solitaire necklace from Diamond Nexus Labs and silver cuff.

This Weekend

Friday night we stayed in, made dinner and watched movies. Somehow our Playstation (which doubles as our DVD/Bluray machine) was left on all day and was overheating so we opened the glass door of the entertainment center to let it cool off. I forgot about it, came down the stairs, entered the living room and ran straight into it, shattering the door and tearing up my legs. My husband spent a good hour and a half vacuuming and sweeping up teensy shards of glass, and it took me an hour to pick all of it out of my shin. Luckily Ruckus was on the couch near the back door and didn't move, so we were able to throw a towel down, get him outside during the cleaning up.

Saturday we went to yoga as usual, and then went to visit my husband's Godson (and their awesome parents). We had lunch - made our own pizzas and cooked them on the grill outside.

Saturday night we stayed in again; we were both pretty tired and my husband had to get up early the next day to train for his 100K walk coming up at the end of April.

Sunday we went for breakfast because my hubby woke with a pretty bad sty/eye infection and didn't think trekking against the wind would be the best for it. I showered and let my hair air dry, put on a bit of Revlon ColorStay under eye concealer, Imju Fiberwig mascara and Victoria's Secret Beauty Rush lip gloss in Strawberry Fizz.

Black tee shirt dress from Jones New York Sport, silver necklaces from H&M, aqua pashmina from Nordstrom, silver hoops and cuff, white athletic socks from Target, tan "Bern" boots from Duo.

We came back, I did a few chores and then dressed for one of my good friend's bridal shower.

I hit a few scraggly pieces with a curling iron but otherwise left the hair alone.

As for makeup, I went over what I had with philosophy The Supernatural in Beige, Nars blush in Orgasm, some more Imju Fiberwig, a bit of taupe shadow from The Body Shop, very thin line of Maybelline UltraLiner in black on the top lash line and on lips is Nars lipcolor in Dolce Vita with Victoria's Secret Lip Gloss in French Kiss over it.

Outfit is Flame merino v-neck from J. Crew, black pencil skirt from Old Navy, black patent peeptoe heels from BCBGirls, solitaire necklace and studs from Diamond Nexus Labs and silver cuff.

The shower was really nice - it had a Carribbean theme since that is where the couple is going for their honeymoon. Homemade macaroons, hibiscus margaritas, jerk chicken, mango salsa and the whole place decorated in bright tropical colors. Saw some people I hadn't seen in years - one sorority sister I haven't seen since 1997! It was a good time.

Friday

Black sheath from Banana Republic by way of eBay, two coral glass chip necklaces from a shop in Rehoboth Beach, shell necklace was originally my mom's, tan "Bern" boots from Duo, silver cuff, earrings from Diamond Nexus Labs. The day was so warm, I only threw on my orange crinkled silk scarf from Banana Republic and now have it looped around my neck.

Hair was washed and conditioned, pureology amplifier and some Jonathan Silky Dirt added while wet and dried quickly with a paddle brush and left all random - I thought the messy look sort of worked with the whole outfit.

Makeup is philosophy The Supernatural in Beige, Cargo Matte BeachBlush in Tenerife, Revlon Shiny Sheers in Sheer Plumdrop, Body Shop eye color in... some taupe color whose name I forget on lids, Revlon ColorStay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis - ivory in inner corners and on brow bone and chocolate along lash lines and in crease. Cover Girl Lash Blast in black.

You can't really see in these pictures, but the hives are back. Argh. Seems to be hormonally-driven. They were really awful last night and early this morning, but at this time of day, they have really subsided and hope they are leaving so I can enjoy the weekend! As for the weekend, no concrete plans outside of another bridal shower this Sunday. I am looking forward to it - my sister is the Maid of Honor and she always throws great parties and I adore the Bride-to-Be. And as for the wedding which will be in May, Yours Truly will be the officiant!

Who Wants a Year's Worth of Free Shoes?

When I feel bad I like to treat myself. Clothes never look any good... food just makes me fatter... shoes always fit.
-Rose Feller, from the movie In Her Shoes

It’s true, no matter what size we are, we can usually find a pair of fabulous footwear to make us feel sassy, feminine, powerful and pretty. No other accessory can transform a look, or the wearer with such intensity.

Reader Jacqueline recently told me about a company she is part of – Footprints International. We have all been exposed to the at-home parties for Pampered Chef, Partylite, and even I used to even be a consultant for The Body Shop at Home. Those parties are fun because you get to sip cocktails with your girlfriends while shopping or playing with gadgets or beauty products. Well imagine if you could have a shoe store come to your home? Well Footprints International allows you to do just that.

Jacqueline is having the most fabulous contest going on right now, and I just had to share it all with you:

Footprints International wants to know, in 200 words or less, why you adore your shoes. What is it about wearing a fabulous pair of shoes that excites you, makes you feel beautiful, or puts a smile on your face? All contest entries will begin: “I adore my shoes because. . .”

The Grand Prize winner will receive 12 pairs of fabulous Footprints International Shoes – yes, that's the equivalent of a pair a month for a year with special surprise bonuses throughout the year. The Grand Prize winner will also receive a special shoe gift arrangement filled with shoe goodies.

The First Prize winner will receive six pairs of Footprints International Shoes, plus a gift arrangement; and Second Prize winner will receive three pairs of shoes, plus a gift arrangement. All pairs of shoes are at a value of up to $50.00 each. The Contest ends at 11:59:59 P.M. PT on March 31, 2008. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY.

To enter, visit our website at http://www.footprintsinternational.com/. Please indicate her name (Jacqueline) at the end of your entry. As our special gift to you, for entering our contest, you will receive a 20% discount on your next purchase from Footprints International. See complete rules for this contest at http://www.footprintsinternational.com/.

For more information about Footprints International, stop by Jacqueline’s blog, Give a Shoe Party. Good luck to all who enter!

UPDATE:
Footprints International has extended the contest deadline to April 16th. Winners will still be announced on May 1st.

Please Don't Try to Get This Look!

The other day I was heading into the Metro to go to work and I passed the line of boxes offering the free papers for the community. I usually just pick up the Washington Post Express – it’s exactly the length to read for my commute (skip the sports unless it’s baseball season, read the horoscope as I exit the train and drop it in the recycling bin). However a competitor daily commuter paper caught my eye – Catherine Zeta Jones was on the front and it had an article inside discussing her fashion sense! I snagged it with my usual Express and headed into the station.

This other paper was in the recycling bin before I even caught my train, and it was because of the so-called “article” on how to get Zeta-Jones’ look. They showed a photo of her at the opening of the remodeled Red Door Salon on Fifth Avenue in New York City, she was dressed in a lovely belted dress with a yellow coat over it. They then proceeded to show how a commoner like us could “get” her look. Instead of a bracelet-sleeved single-breasted jacket, the magazine showed a short, double-breasted belted trench. Instead of a navy sheath with black belt, they offered a low v-necked black jersey dress. And instead of her classic round-toed pumps, they offered embellished black peeptoe heels.

How the heck was this getting her look? If you put those three items together, you would look like a hot mess, not like Catherine Zeta-Jones.

Very very rarely can one achieve a “look” with cheap options in the same colors. Believing that you can find a celebrity’s exact look in your local Wal-Mart or Forever 21 is like believing that a lovely bottle of Bordeaux can be replaced with Boone’s Farm.

This isn’t to say one can’t achieve style like Catherine on any budget. The point is you can’t be a mirror image. But then no stylish woman imitates, she only gets inspiration from others.

Breaking down this look, it is quite simple to replicate at any budget level. The beauty of the look isn’t as much in the color, as the lines.

- The jacket is single-breasted, which is flattering to a curvy body. It ends a hair above the hem of the skirt, which looks polished and well-tailored. The bracelet sleeves are fresh, and the black buttons pull the jacket into the look making it an outfit instead of separates. Yes, the pale yellow makes this look stand out and look very current with the Spring trends, but the same look could be achieved with ivory, pale aqua, a dark celadon, even khaki. It’s more about the contrast of light jacket against dark dress.

- The dress is a simple sheath, but is tailored to fit her nicely. She makes it look fresh with the wide belt and the black color. The length is just at the top of the knee, which is flattering to the majority of women. Again this is not as much about the color, as the line of the look. It wouldn’t be as “trendy” if it wasn’t a navy dress with black belt, but this look could work with browns, with all black, even with gray.

-The pumps are very simple in style to fit the clean lines of the overall look. If they had adornment or an open toe, it would cheapen the look and not have it so cohesive.

-Notice the simplicity of her jewelry (delicate gold earrings and bracelet); they don’t compete against the graphic look of the outfit. Same with her hair and makeup – clean, polished, but just accents to the outfit which is center stage.

Nine times out of ten, when I see a “Get Her Look” or “Splurge vs. Steal” article, the cheaper versions look like crap. It’s frustrating, because you don’t have to have a lot of money to have a beautiful look. I wonder if these editors do their work, or just see a pile of crap that has been delivered to their office from various retailers and dig through it in five minutes to find random pieces that could “pass” as equivalents. Are they all so jaded, or disconnected from the real world that they don’t realize that utterly fabulous things are to be found outside of the couture store or fancy boutique?

What makes a celebrity look so chic isn’t that she is wearing the coolest trends or the color of the season, it is that she is wearing clothing that flatters her body and her personality. Ms. Zeta-Jones looks so fabulous because she (and possibly a stylist) found silhouettes that flatter, a current style that fits her own personal style, and a look that was appropriate for the occasion. A stylish woman never scrambles to mimic a look that she can’t afford or wear well. A stylish woman would admire the look, consider her own frame and budget and use this for reference on her next shopping trip. The only look a woman should be trying to get is her own.

Thursday

Black cashmere puff sleeved sweater from Banana Republic, gray "Drew" trousers from Limited, black booties from Sudini, white gold and diamond solitaire necklace and studs from Diamond Nexus Labs.

Hair is second day, bedhead smoothed with curling iron.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match concealer in W1-3, philosophy The Supernatural in Beige, Nars blush in Orgasm with a touch of Smashbox Soft Lights in Tint over it, Benefit's Pink to Please the Girl Gold to Get the Guy Palette - the light gold in inner corners and on brow bone, the darker gold and pink blended and on lid and bottom lash line. Cover Girl LashBlast in black with Imju Fiberwig over it and a thin line of Maybelline UltraLiner in black on top lash line. on lips is the darker pink gloss from the Benefit palette.

Reader Question - Storing Out of Season Clothing

Reader Joyce Asked:
I invested in a few nice wool, silk and cashmere pieces over the fall and winter, and now that it's almost time to put them away, I am worried about keeping them in good condition until it's time to wear them again. Any suggestions on storing these garments during the warmer months?


Hey Joyce:
Perfect timing! I know here in the Nation’s Capital it was warm enough the past two days to go without a coat so it’s time in many parts of the world to start storing away the heavy winter garments and pull out the cotton and linen pieces! I’d be happy to share my steps for storing out-of-season garments:

1. Clean Everything Before Storing. Even if it doesn’t have a stain, you will want each garment cleaned to remove any perspiration or invisible stains. Body odor and perfumes attract bugs, and invisible stains can set over the months and become quite obvious come the fall when the garments are pulled out to wear again. When cleaning, avoid the use of starch or fabric softener as that these too attract moths and other pests.

2. The Right Place for Everything. Sweaters and knits do best by being folded instead of being hung. A few months on a hanger can cause your beautiful cashmeres to be misshapen. If they are folded and stored in a cedar chest (I have one that has been passed down the family) or a plastic box (use acid-free tissue or even old pillowcases to protect garments inside the box), they will keep their natural shape. Be sure to not pack too tightly so the items can breathe; if packed too tight they may crease or even begin growing mildew.

Dresses and blouses are usually best on hangers. Use sturdy plastic or wooden hangers, and make use of every hanging loop inside the garment to ensure it stays on the hanger and also hangs the right way so it doesn’t get misshapen. To keep them protected, store hanging items in a fabric garment bag (I found some great canvas ones at Marshall’s for a fabulous price – they have rod hooks of their own and a bar inside and a zipper for easy access to the contents of the bag). As with the items in a box, don’t cram garments together – letting them breathe will keep them in the best condition. An inch between each hanger is a good guide.

Coats should be stored in the same fashion, but the heavier the garment, the sturdier your hanger should be. A few months on a thin plastic hanger can cause what my husband calls “tumors” on the shoulders of your favorite garments. Invest in proper wide coat hangers and your clothes will be ready-to-wear when the cooler weather returns.

Never use paper bags or cardboard to store your clothes – buggies adore cardboard and paper and will eat straight through to your silks.

3. Treat Your Clothes Like Your Spices. This means keep them in a cool, dry place. Attics seem like the best place, but they can often be way over 100 degrees even on the most pleasant June day. Basements can often be damp, so use a plastic box and try to store on a shelf above the floor and consider a dehumidifier. Before storing in a closet, give it a damp dusting, a vacuuming and a chance to settle and dry out before adding your clothes. This will help get rid of any bug eggs that may be hiding in corners.

4. Moth Balls are Passé. Your grandmother may have used moth balls, but they aren’t the best choice in this day and age. Yes they stink to high heaven, but the chemicals can also be damaging to delicate fabrics and decoration. To keep pests at bay, consider cedar blocks, or even sachets made from natural rosemary and/or lavender. However these aren’t guaranteed ways to be moth-free, so ensure you always store in a clean area.

Hope this helps! There’s no point in purchasing quality garments if you don’t treat them well enough to last a long time. Most materials can be found at shops like The Container Store, or even your local Target or discount Big Box retailer.

Backless Bra for Busty Gals?

Maidenform has launched the first-ever completely backless bra. The Breakthrough™ Backless Bra, a one-of-a-kind design, allows women of all bust sizes, and especially large-busted women, the chance to take advantage of this season’s sexy backless fashions. As a woman with a bust on the larger size, I wonder if this bra really could support and allow me to wear outfits with lower backs.

From the Maidenform Press Release:
Backless fashions are all the rage this spring! From special occasion to ready-to-wear, designers are including sexy backless styles in all of their spring collections. But who can really wear these fashions? Most women today are in desperate need of bra support! The first ever Breakthrough™ Backless bra by Maidenform® is here in time to offer women all the support they need this spring.

Thanks to the ABC’s hit reality series “American Inventor”™ -- from “American Idol” producers FremantleMedia North America, Simon Cowell’s Syco Television and Peter Jones TV Ltd. – our fashion worries will soon be over. Originally created by runner-up contestant Elaine Cato, the new Maidenform Breakthrough™ Backless Bra is the first product ever to be brought to mass market. This new foundation features a completely backless construction with silicone wire channeling that prevents slippage. Now women don’t have to shy away from the latest backless fashion trends and can feel sexy, feminine and supported – all at once!

A born entrepreneur and single mother of two, Elaine Cato was not afraid to put her invention to the test. Like the producers and judges on “American Inventor,” Maidenform immediately saw the undeniable promise of her creation, working diligently with her to bring the design to fruition and later to mass market. Today, the Breakthrough™ Backless Bra, armed with Elaine’s concept, has created an undergarment aimed to perfectly round-out every innerwear wardrobe.

The Breakthrough™ Backless Bra features light-weight microfiber fabric that is soft to the touch, with seamless molded foam cups that deliver smooth shaping under clothes. Combined with a two-way stretch technology, the bra provides a maneuverable fit with excellent flexibility. Designed with the full-figured female in mind, the bra allows women with even large busts to flaunt their sexy backs like never before!

“During the warmer seasons, women crave those backless styles,” says Norah Alberto, Maidenform’s Senior Style Director. “To help these women bare their back for spring we are launching the new Breakthrough™ Backless Bra which delivers the perfect complement to everyone’s bra closet and is the answer to so many women’s style dilemmas.”

At a suggested retail price of $32 (though currently only $25 if you pre-order on the Maidenform Web site!) and sizes ranging from 34B to 38DD, I plan to try it out and I will be sure to come back here and let you guys know what I think!

Free Tip - Cut the Purse Strings!

Each week I will be posting a free way that you can update your look or wardrobe - simple and budget friendly steps that are super easy to accomplish. This week's idea - cutting the purse strings!

With use, leather and leather-like bags often start to fray, especially at the straps. We often miss this detail, with our purses becoming almost a part of our bodies. We throw them over our shoulder and don't usually give them a second look. Walking to work today, I saw several women (and men with messenger and laptop bags) carrying expensive looking and new styles of bags that looked a big raggedy just because of these wayward threads.

With a pair of embroidery or cuticle scissors, snip all the little strings from the edges of your purse. While you're at it, grab your laptop bag, your favorite tote and any other handbags in your collection and give them a trim. You won't need to even touch the fabric, little scissors like this will get close enough to the bag for a clean finish without damaging the material.

A little snip of those purse strings, and your bag will look newer and more polished!

Wednesday

Navy pique dress from Isaac Mizrahi for Target, plum tights from target, brown suede slouch boots from Silhouettes, silver necklaces from H&M, orange silk scarf from Banana Republic, silver hoops and cuff. Wore my long brown suede coat from Express.

Hair washed and conditioned, Jonathan Silky Dirt twirled around sections while damp and then dried with diffuser. When dry, curled large sections around curling iron.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match concealer in W1-3, philosophy The Supernatural in Beige, Nars blush in Orgasm, Benefit's Her Glossiness in Next Question Please, Revlon ColorStay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis - ivory over lid. Cover Girl LashBlast in black and Maybelline UltraLiner in black on top lash line.

I know the orange scarf is an unusual combination, but this outfit needed... something. I am looking into getting some more scarves, ones that are longer but more narrow. Think they will be a great alternative to these thicker pashminas and shawls for the warmer months. Any suggestions on places to look? I always have the best luck in the lesser known stores and even stands at markets, festies and such but don't really have the schedule right now to go shopping to those sorts of places. Maybe that is Life telling me to hold off for now... I really haven't had much of an urge to go shopping lately anyway, just would like some new accessories :)

However I have done a teensy bit of shopping - got some black patent peeptoe heels from BCBGirls for Spring (gosh that brand feels custom made for my fat little piggies), my new purse from Banana/eBay, and I finally saved up to get something I have really really wanted for a very long time.... a food processor! I know, it's not clothing but I have a passion for cooking as I do for fashion. Not so much fancy recipes, but I really like getting creative in my kitchen and trying out new things. Now I can make a ton more things like my own hummus, salsa and try out a vegetarian version of the fabulous potato-leek soup I used to make with my now-defunct immersion blender! (and I got the classic Cuisinart one - no need for super fancy or super big at this stage of my life.... this baby is already bigger than my itty-bitty kitchen counter!)

Any suggestions on fabu healthy vegetarian dishes that require me to take my Cuisinart out for a spin? Nothing phases me - love it spicy, love it savory, love the lesser known, have plenty of international markets around so can often find more obscure ingredients... bring it on! :)

Tuesday

Orange merino scoopneck from Marshall's, tan tweedy trousers from Ann Taylor, black booties from Sudini, white gold and diamond solitaire necklace and studs from Diamond Nexus Labs, silver cuff.

Hair was washed and conditioned night before and dried while sleeping. This morning hit the bedhead with the curling iron and then some Jonathan Silky Dirt to set.

Makeup is philosophy's The Present, L'Oreal true Match concealer in W1-3, philosophy The Supernatural in Beige, Cargo matte BeachBlush in Tenerife, Revlon ColorStay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis - the ivory over the lid, CoverGirl LashBlast in black on curled lashes, Maybelline UltraLiner in black on top lash line, Revlon ColorStay lip color in Real Raisin.

This Weekend and Monday

Saturday I had a bridal shower. No pics, I wore my dark red merino shift from Banana Republic, my brown suede slouchy tall boots from Silhouettes, tortoise shell necklace from Rehoboth Beach with matching earrings and a single gold bangle from Ralph Lauren. Wore that for the rest of the day and evening festivities.

Sunday, we had brunch at my mom's house.

Hair washed and conditioned, bit of Jonathan Silky Dirt, hair air dried completely and then took big sections around a curling iron for a short bit of time to smooth and make less hair band and more beachy. Bit more Jonathan once dry.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match concealer in W103, philosophy The Supernatural in Beige, Cargo Matte BeachBlush in Tenerife, Revlon ColorStay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis - ivory in inner corners, khaki light on lid, a bit of chocolate in crease. On lips is Benefit's Her Glossiness in Next Question Please.

Brown and red print matte jersey dress from Maggy London, brown suede slouchy tall boots from Silhouettes, gold hopps from Ann Taylor, gold necklace from Express, gold "twig" bangles from Ann Taylor.

Today we begin lunchtime yoga in the office, so I dressed to be able to tear apart and put together one of our conference rooms and also change easily into and out of yoga gear.

Hair is second day, straightened with my Croc Wet-to-Dry flat iron.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match concealer in W1-3, philosophy The Supernatural in Beige, Nars blush in Orgasm, Benefit's Her Glossiness in Next Question Please, Body Shop Eyecolor in Granite on lid and along lash line, Cover Girl LashBlast in black.

"Hippie" top from H&M, dark "The Flirt" bootcut jeans from Old Navy, black booties from Sudini, silver necklaces from H&M, silver cuff (put on post-pic) and hoops.

Friday

I didn't take pictures this morning. Just didn't feel like it.

We are starting yoga classes on Mondays in one of our conference rooms at lunch and I have offered to help with setup and takedown. Today we did a dry run and if I am going to be lugging around big honking tables, I wasn't going to wear purty clothes.

So I am wearing a black merino crewneck sweater from Banana Republic, Gap Curvy Bootcut jeans, my black lowrise Chucks, and my silver cuff.

Hair was washed, conditioned, a bit of Jonathan Silky Dirt and dried super quickly with a paddle brush.

Makeup is philosophy The Supernatural in Beige, Cargo Matte BeachBlush in Tenerife, Cover Girl Lash Blast mascara and a bit of lip balm. This picture was taken just now... 10 hours after getting ready, after dashing around town and the two floors of our office. You can see my Elle in the background!

Since I don't have any pictures, I thought I would give you a glimpse into what I look at every day. This is my view, my ancient computer, my Nalgene, my wallpaper of my baby Ruckie.

Here's my bookcase with the plant that Katie gave me at my old job - it got a bit banged up and almost died on the trip on the Metro to get here, but it's thriving once again! And there's my shoe collection that my sister gave me. She worked at a store during college that sold there and she would give them to me one at a time as gifts.

Here's the art I look at. Nothing exciting on the wall behind me because I can't see it, but people say my room looks sterile. Well if you sit where I am you can see Picasso and Georgia O'Keeffe! Actually I just haven't found anything else that I really like just yet. Didn't have art up at the last job (other than my little Picasso Acrobat). And really, it has only been four months, I want to take it slow and surround myself with stuff I really care about. Just buying that O'Keeffe and the frame was a big deal - will I stay here long enough to enjoy it? Should I splurge for proper matting and frame (obviously decided not to)? Which O'Keeffe can I get that will be blue, soothing but not look like a big vagina on my wall? (O'Keeffe is by far my favorite artist and person since I can remember. I find her flowers gorgeous but didn't want to offend any new coworkers. Here longer, I may put a different print up.)

And finally, here is my other baby, my new purse from Banana Republic by way of eBay, sitting under my desk. Isn't it too cute? Can't you just hear it saying, "Allie, stop blogging already! The day is over and it's FRIIIIDAYYYY! Let's go shopping!"

Not going shopping, but AM going home. If the hubby gets home in time, I have a birthday party in Baltimore tonight. Tomorrow is a bridal shower and Sunday is brunch at my Mommy's house! Hope you all have a lovely weekend!

A Wide Calf Boot Update

So as you know from many previous posts on here, I have wide calves and have dealt with many companies trying to find tall boots that fit and flatter my larger-than-average legs. Many of you have suggested having a cobbler stretch traditionally-sized boots, but to give you some perspective, the last boots I ordered that fit had a 45 cm calf... that's around an 18" shaft for Americans. Most regular boots are 14-15" and a wide calf boot in stores like J. Crew and Ann Taylor is usually around a 16-17" shaft. I know many many of you readers have the same issue - the "wide calf" boots available aren't wide enough or the selection plentiful enough.

Well since my last review of specialty bootmaker Duo and plus size retailer Silhouettes, I have been doing some more boot shopping, searching for the Holy Grail of Wide-Calf Boots, and I wanted to share my experiences with you.

Silhouettes
After the great experience with my brown suede boots from Silhouettes, I decided to try a few more styles. End of the season sales made their average selection suddenly look delicious. I ordered a classic camel tall leather boot with wood heel, and a slouchy black leather tall boot (see below left). As that I usually wear a 7.5, I ordered an 8 and WW for both pairs. Boots are often better fitting if a half-size larger than usual, and my brown suede boots from there were 8WW.

The camel ones were HUGE, I mean HUGE! I didn't even have to unzip them to get them on. The foot was also far too large, as that these boots were not just wide in the calf but in the foot too. Very confusing as that they were the same brand as the brown suede ones I already owned. The leather was very stiff and if it was stamped with the "Real Leather" logo, I would wonder if these were a synthetic fabric. The toe was rounder than expected - not as classic of a look as I would have desired. I wished that Silhouettes offered the size of the boot shaft like Wide-Widths and Duo.

As for the black ones, well I almost kept them. The leather was buttery soft and had a rocker look to them with the cuff, the slouchiness and the glossy finish. The toe was a bit snub and round (a longer, pointier, squarer or platform toe would have enhanced the rocker look and made them look more expensive), but in general an attractive boot that looked more expensive than its pricetag.

However yet again, they didn't fit correctly. The left leg was a teensy bit big - nothing I couldn't deal with. however the right leg - I was SWIMMING in it. I really fought over whether to keep and see if a cobbler could alter to fit, or return. After factoring in the slouchy/gathered leather of the style, I decided it would probably be too expensive to alter and returned them as well.

I must say, the return policy for Silhouettes is pretty good- 30 days and you can try them out before you return them - no need to pussy-foot around your carpeted rooms not really getting a feel for the footwear. My card was credited the amount in less than a month, no hassles at all. Silhouettes also offers a toll-free assistance line and email address - something I will take advantage of this fall when I return to my quest to find tall boots. Possibly they would have been able to advise me on which size to choose to get a custom fit.


eBay/Silhouettes
Loved my brown slouchy suede boots from Silhouettes, I headed to eBay to see if I could find the same boots in a different color. As I have mentioned before, there are many sellers offering new and gently used wide-calf boots. I found one who had my brown boots in purple. Purple, how fun! Nice splash of color with my predominately black winter wardrobe, and one of my favorite hues. Ordered the same size and width as my brown boots...

They arrived quickly, pristine in the original box. Same quality of suede, same exact style number.

They didn't fit. First, they were way too snug on my feet. Second, I couldn't zip them over my ankle bone. What the heck? I put them up against my brown boots to compare. Same stamps inside, same shape, same cut but the purple boots were shorter, slimmer, all over a smaller boot. Honestly, they looked like a size 7 regular-width calf. My lesson? Ask the seller where they got the merchandise. Maybe these were irregulars that Silhouettes discarded...


Roaman's
A fellow blogger tipped me off that Roaman's offers a decent selection of wide-calf boots, and their descriptions of sizes and circumferences pretty detailed. I decided to order the Plus-calf Leather Boot by Step Up Comfort (see below left). I desired a taller heel and more modern style, but the price was great (sale) and I found an awesome coupon online that made these boots a DEAL with free shipping. Again, I ordered 8, but this time went with M as that the description said these boots would really stretch to fit.

The shoes arrived quickly... and didn't look at all like the picture. No where in the description, or in the zoomed image of the boots did the site explain that the black leather had a weird glaze on it to make them look old, gray and as though someone spilled milk on them and let it dry. Dull, crackle finish, and the boot was slightly taller in the front than in the back. This may be for comfort, but I felt as though it made it look more like a pirate, than a work boot.

Went to put them on... and these were too small! Yet again, couldn't zip them up over the ankle bone. However my friend ordered the same boots and they did fit her perfectly. Hers also had the weird milky glaze, but she also got the coupon and sale price and felt they would be fine enough and the low heel perfect for tromping around the city.
Roaman's also has a great exchange/return policy - 90 days, satisfaction guaranteed. They had a UPS pre-paid label enclosed so I was able to easily drop off the box at my nearby UPS Store. They too credited my card very quickly and there were no hassles.


Duo
I had had great success with Duo before, but was trying to find a cheaper alternative. After all my return and shipping costs from these previous vendors, I realize I should have stuck with a company I knew and trusted. On top of that, Duo was also having a sale on a large portion of their selection, and many sale boots were exactly what I was looking for!

I chose the "Toledo" in black (below left), which had a mid-height heel and a classic look. I went back to my previous order's email confirmation and typed in my shoe and calf widths and processed my order. The boots arrived two weeks later from across the pond, and they didn't fit. Like TOTALLY didn't fit, couldn't even get my foot in the boot! I look at the order form and realize that stupid me mixed up the sizes - I ordered my foot size (39) for the calf and calf size for the foot! Lesson learned? Double and triple check your order if you are purchasing from an overseas company or one who doesn't provide size numbers you are familiar with!

I contacted Duo and told them my issue. Less than 24 hours, I received an email from them and we began an email dialog on which boot would be the best choice for my shape. The customer service representative informed me that the "Toledo" would probably be a bad choice for my shape as that I have large ankles and shins as well as calves, and that style is for "more delicate of legs" (the site did mention this style was best for petite legs and I though that meant short legs and though it was a perfect choice). She asked me which other styles in my size I liked and I sent her the names. From them, she described the boots in more detail, and how they would fit and look on my body. She reminded me that Duo is always available by email or phone to offer advice on the proper boot for any person's body. Lesson learned? Ask before ordering!

With all this information, I have decided to suspend my quest for the Holy Grail of Wide Calf Boots until late Summer/early Fall when all shops will be full of their new selections. Right now sizes and styles are slim, and I don't want to be forced into purchasing that which is okay, and not awesome. However now I know to ask questions, ask questions, ask questions and double-check my order before hitting "Submit!" And of course, when I resume this journey I will be sure to keep you all updated!

Other posts on Wardrobe Oxygen about Wide-Calf Boots:
- It's All About the Boots - Silhouettes and eBay
- Vendor Review - Duo Boots
- From Allie's Mailbag - Where to Find Extended Calf Boots
- Tall Boots for Wide Calves

Thursday

Red ponte dress from Ann Taylor, black ponte jacket (worn as coat) from Banana Republic Outlet, black and white oblong scarf from Express (ended up leaving it on), silver necklaces from H&M, black croco peeptoe heels from BCBGirls, silver bracelet from Ann Taylor Loft, silver hoops.







Hair is second day, flipped head upside down and hit it with my Matrix Sleek hairspray, then the bedhead (always my right side) I used the curling iron on, and then used the iron to smooth my bangs.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match concealer in W1-3, philosophy The Supernatural in Beige, Revlon Shiny Sheers in Sheer Cherry Pop, Revlon ColorStay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis - ivory in corners and over whole lid. Two coats Cover Girl LashBlast on curled lashes and Maybelline UltraLiner in black on top lash line.

Reader Question – How to Dress a Curvy Frame

Reader Caroline asks:

Hi Wardrobe Oxygen,
I have a large bust (36DD) and am a size 8. I can never find shirts or jackets that look right on me. How does a curvy lady look feminine but not like she’s putting the girls out on display? What types of shirts and dresses should I be looking for?
Hey Caroline:
As a fellow large-busted woman, I feel your pain. Having the curves on top, but an average dress size means items are usually too small on top, or else too large in the waist and too long in the hemlines.

First, here’s a list of things you should try to stay away from:

Crewnecks and Boatnecks
These necklines usually make your bust look bigger, and seem to make your shoulders look just as large. Even though this example is on a small-busted woman, you can see how this style of neckline accentuates her bust area. A slightly rounded or v-neck can give the same amount of coverage, but will lengthen the look of your neck and expose part of your collarbone, showing the world you are not a linebacker.

Double-breasted Jackets

Two rows of buttons over your chest is not going to flatter, or de-emphasize that part of your body. A single-breasted style, preferably with a notch collar will be far kinder to your frame.

Turtlenecks
Again, a turtleneck will draw all attention to your bust and shoulders. A cowl neck, or even some distraction (long necklace or scarf) over the turtleneck will elongate and make the eye see the whole pictures, not just your chest.

One-button Blazers
Seen as a wardrobe staple by many, this classic style is a no-no for any woman with a large bust. It is near impossible to get a good fit, so the neckline will gape at the bust, emphasizing that part of your body.

Button-down Shirts
Sometimes you will come across a gem that works, but more often than not, a button-down shirt doesn’t work with a curvy frame. If you have enough fabric to comfortably stretch across your bust, you will often find the shoulders are too big and it is too loose in the torso. More often than not, you will find yourself tugging at a button-down all day to fit properly and not expose your bra between the buttons.

And a list of what usually works:

Three-button Blazers
Enough buttons to follow the line of your body, and a button high enough that your bust can’t spill out of the neckline. Three buttons is still a classic look, but far more figure-flattering.

Camis
Worn under a wrap shirt or dress, or even a v-neck, camis will offer proper coverage while still allowing the v-style of the top garment to lengthen your look. Having the camisole the same color and a complimentary fabric to the top or dress will keep it looking sophisticated. I have knit ones to wear under cotton and other knits, synthetic to wear with silk and matte jersey.

Surplice and Wrap Necklines
A surplice neckline is one that has a crossover/wrap effect. It is different from a wrap shirt because it is sewn together and usually the wrap part ends around the bottom of the bustline, finishing with a traditional torso for the rest of the garment. Both a wrap and a surplice neckline are good for busty women because they nip in at the waist and offer a bit more fabric at the top.

A wrap dress is often most flattering on a woman with a large bust. Look for matte jersey and heavier knits that will work with your curves, and if you need an extra inch of coverage, a cami always works!

If a wrap neckline is gaping too much, it’s usually better to leave it on the hanger than try to remedy the situation at home with a safety pin or cami. Too often I see fellow curvy females with a hodgepodge on their chest – weird gathers from hidden safety pins, brooches holding fabric together, a wrap shirt that hardly meets in front with a fully-exposed pair wrapped in a tight cami. Each shape of woman has some styles she just can’t wear, if the wrap shirt in the store doesn’t flatter or fit, it’s okay. You can wear a scoopneck far better than most of your friends I bet! There are not hard fast rules with what one MUST wear, don’t settle for a cut that doesn’t work with your curves.

Knits
The most wonderful style this Spring for the curvy woman is the knit jacket. Free of stiff lining and structure, but still full of style and professionalism, the knit jacket is something to invest in while they are in the stores. Many are made of a fabric called Ponte de Roma, or Ponte for short. Ponte is a heavy, tightly-woven fabric that is sturdier and dressier than a traditional knit. It makes for great jackets, dresses and even pencil skirts and trousers. Often a Ponte jacket is unlined and its matching skirt or pants are, which makes for a very polished and well-fitting suit for curvy gals. This picture shows a dress from Ponte, and you can see how it has more structure than if the same dress was made from a lighter-weight knit.

Matte jersey is another wonder fabric – wrinkle resistant, easy to wash, quick drying and able to dress up or down. Great for dresses and for tops, be they under a suit or worn with jeans for a night out on the town.

Finally, every woman, especially those with large busts should get re-fitted for a bra every year and replace bras when they start losing elasticity or get stretched out. A good bra will completely transform your figure and how your clothing lays upon it!

Hope that helps!

Jacket by Elie Tahari, black dress by Maggy London, navy dress by Theory. Images and fashion from Nordstrom.

Wednesday

Black matte jersey wrap dress from Old Navy, black synthetic cami from H&M, leopard peeptoe heels from BCBGirls, gold necklace from Express, gold twig bracelets and simple hoops from Ann Taylor.

Hair washed and conditioned, bit of Jonathan Silky Dirt and dried with paddle brush.

Makeup is L'Oreal True Match concealer in W1-3, philosophy The Supernatural in Beige, Cargo Matte BeachBlush in Tenerife, Revlon Super Lustrous Lip Gloss in pink Afterglow, Body Shop eye color - granite on lid and along lash line, slate in crease. Lashes curled and two coats of Cover Girl LashBlast in black.

Reader Request - Suits for Tall Women

Reader Jamie writes in:

I'm in law school and need to find a suit for my first upcoming 'practice' oral argument. The problem is I'm tall (5'10'') and am a 14-16. I would like to find something of good quality but not outrageously expensive. Any suggestions on where to start?

Hey there Jamie:

I really don’t understand why the selection for tall women is so lacking; when I was a personal shopper I would guess a third had issues with sleeve and hem lengths – maybe they were tall, possibly high-waisted, or slimmer than standard (a Size 2 isn’t always 5’5”!).

JC Penney is a place to find reasonably-priced suiting in very simple, professional styles. This jacket, skirt and suit combo in a subtle pinstripe would be great for your argument, post-bar in the courtroom, or even as separates for casual days at work or out on the town.

I have a love/hate relationship with New York & Company; sometimes they have beautiful and well-made pieces, and sometimes they have an entire store full of crap. However, they carry tall up to size 18, and their suiting collection is usually simple enough of style and fabric to be a good buy. Currently all the tall trousers on their site are on sale for $39.95 or less and all their tall jackets are under $70! Check out their tall suiting collection here.

J. Crew may not be known for being budget-friendly, especially as their line has gotten more popular and unique, but they are known for quality. A good suit is an investment that will last you years. Their Super 120s suiting collection is made from a fine merino wool that will provide a professional and classic look for years to come. Available in tall sizes up to 14.

Banana Republic also has a tall suiting line, and their collection goes up to a size 16. This taupe heather lightweight wool blazer has a matching skirt and two styles of trousers available to make it a great non-black professional suit.

When you heard Lands End you may just think of windbreakers and flip flops. They also have a great collection of clothing for work, and their tall line comes in sizes up to 18. This simple two button blazer in a wool blend with matching pencil skirt would be a great choice together, or as separates to infuse into the rest of your wardrobe. Again, not the cheapest, but a classic style that will be worth the investment.

Do any of you readers have any suggestions for other retailers that offer tall suiting?