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Each of us has a piece of radiance waiting inside of us, just waiting to shine. You probably know exactly where you are Radiant and what it means for you to shine - but are you? Are you shining? Many of our clients come to us looking for a piece of radiance; something unique and special about themselves that they can confidently share with the world. They simply want to shine. In order for our clients to shine, they must send out a beacon into the dark world. They must be ready to demonstrate that they are present, confident and comfortable with themselves - exactly as they are. For many of us, shining this guiding light is scary. In fact, it’s downright terrifying. We want the confidence and presence that comes with radiance, but stepping into that light seems daunting. At The Swag Society, we deliver radiance. The secret lies in understanding that our clients already have everything they need to shine - all they need is someone to light the fire. We understand that taking the first steps can be scary, and we are prepared to equip you with everything you need to venture into the world with confidence - exactly as you are. Just like a friendly whisper to tell you that you (yes you) are enough - our tips, inspiration and easy solutions are often exactly the boost our clients need to shine. We know its dark out there. We know it’s not easy. All you have to do is let yourself shine; we will be here with you every step of the way. This book is a great place to start. We understand the mixed messages and overwhelming choices in fashion, hair and beauty can be complicating so we got our hands dirty and tried EVERYTHING (ok, not everything, but TONS, ok not tons but trust us, it was a lot) from creams, to jeans and everything in between so we could find what’s best, and we did. Now, what we love is nestled all snug in this book, with links and photos to illustrate it all. Use the links, ask questions and shop away knowing that we’ve made sure that each item is of high standards, clean for your body and worth passing on. Creating a personal style that properly reflects your personality, lifestyle and budget isn’t the easiest or quickest thing to do. Most people think personal style starts and stops with your outfit, but it’s actually an allencompassing formula that brings together fashion, makeup, wellness and mindset. The experienced Stylists with The Swag Society believe that a combination of key products and pieces can polish a woman in a way that creates a confident glow that looks and feels effortless, every day. Whether an authentic set of earrings, a perfect shade of lip gloss or a few shared words from the heart we believe that every woman can look and feel fabulous when she has a trusted friend there to help inspire her to stretch from the norm; in turn evolving into the woman she knows she can be. Women grow and evolve and so should their personal style and daily personal care routine. Women need different things from their 20′s to their 40′s and The Swag Society is here to help you make those transitions easy and painless. In a world with little regulation in the beauty and wellness industries we can help you feel confident and at ease because we’ve done all the homework for you. No more buying, trying and returning drugstore and big name brands of products that say one thing and deliver another. Now you can rest your mind and not get caught up in the hype of celebrity driven advertising. Take the time to read through this book. It’s short and to the point for a reason. We wanted to give you more of a reference with directions rather than a long wordy book that most of us don’t have time to sit down and read. Something you can quickly check back with before a shopping trip, special event or at the turn of the season. It covers MIND+BODY+SKIN & STYLE. We believe that not until you’ve “gotten your mind right” can you really feel at your best. What we mean by that is full acceptance of who you are, what you are and who you want to be. We can help with the “how to get there” but you really need to spend time getting to know your deepest desires and then we can help you get there. Loving yourself for who you are is the first step! Have fun learning how you can arrive at your personal best, inside-out and from head to toe…
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Our 2014 Recommendations Mind Create good daily self-talk habits, to build confidence and self-esteem. What you say to yourself when you’re all alone matters, make it work for you and not against you. Daily Gratitude Walk/Run: Picture yourself how you want to be, zero in on it, then shift that focus towards things about yourself that you’re already grateful for. Things about you personally. As women we spend plenty of time thinking of others, so during this time, focus on you. Get centered on who you are, who you want to be and then visualize yourself already being that way. It’s who you really are… Do this for 30 days and you’ll feel a positive difference. Read “The Magic”: It’s a book with action steps to help enrich your mind and thoughts over a 28 day period. Clock Visualization Meditation: Use this as a tool to feel more relaxed in your day-to-day tasks and decision making. MP3 File on iTunes Subscribe: A daily email I receive and highly recommend subscribing to is Abraham Hicks, subscribe here.
Body Create good health and wellness options by taking a closer look at what you put ON and IN your body on a daily basis. Here’s a quick video that explains why that’s so important. Below are products we have tested, use, love and feel it necessary to pass along. The companies we work with have a green and natural approach to products we use every day. What you put IN and ON your body makes its way to your vital organs and processes so using products that communicate well with your body is key. Eat Clean: Eat 5 small meals per day that are nutrient and protein rich. Try adding 2 protein supplements and select superfruit juices a day to replace meals, be a hearty snack and balance your body on a cellular level. The balance it gives a body trying to shed pounds is invaluable. We like the shakes and cereal from Visalus; tastes like cake mix and honey bunches of oats-amazing! The superfruits are from Genesis Pure and there isn’t anything like them. The doctor behind these formulations is a genius on health and nutrition. Also, cutting out excess sugar, carbs and anything processed. If you have to unwrap it, it’s processed and made with ingredients that build up in your body and make it difficult for your body’s natural functions to work. Buy organic when possible and work in as many veggies as you can. Your body will respond immediately. For family meal menus, recipes and clean eating inspiration visit www.skinnymom.com. We love this site and its recommendations! Cleanse – Balance – Build: These ALL ORGANIC products are formulated by Dr. Lindsey Duncan to Cleanse, Balance, & Build our body so it can heal ITSELF against toxins and disease. Helping you BURN fat, GAIN energy, BOOST metabolism, REDUCE cravings, INCREASE memory, BALANCE hormones, and SO MUCH MORE! Exercise: Yoga/Pilates: We recommend a weekly Yoga and Pilates routine for almost everyone we meet. We do this because it is such a vital tool to stay balanced as women age. Finding the right class for you is essential, so try a few new places and see where you feel the most peace. It’s proven to be the exercise that a woman’s body benefits from the longest not to mention the balance and inner strength it builds is priceless. My personal favorite online is www.joyfulbreathyoga.com Interval Running/Walking: We recommend getting your heart rate up in a big way a few times a week. Not only is this a great way to detox, its proven to increase positive mood and your body will thank you. If you need assistance with this here is a great app you can download that will help keep you on track. Apple App or Android App Weight Lifting: Lifting light weights is great for toning your body and burning calories all day long. Doing this 3 times a week will replace fat with muscle and you’ll love the results. Here is a tool that is easy to follow
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Skin Create great daily habits by using products with ingredients that your body can process effortlessly. Feed your skin the same good nutrition that your body needs. It knows what to do with each and every ingredient, leaving your skin reaping ALL the benefits. Click here to watch a video that spells it all out. Daily Skin Care: Switch things up and try the plant based facial products. We have choices for Anti-Aging, Basic, Combination, Calming and Treatments. The hydration difference will be obvious after your first application no matter which line you go with. We also think a weekly treatment schedule helps results. These are simple, affordable things to do at home that will make you happy when you look in the mirror every day, a definite confidence builder! Facial Treatments: If you are a multi-step person and enjoy the pampering try alternating daily, a Cellular Renewal Mask and Intelligence Genius, with a Clairsonic Cleansing Treatment used during cleansing. It will give immediate results that will speed up what the skin care can do for you. You’ll see quite a turnaround with your skin with these recommendations. Body Treatments: Taking seasonal care of your skin will go a long way. One your face or on your rump, doesn’t matter. It needs daily moisture from a shower or bath, finished by a deep mositurization from head to toe. I know you think you don’t have time, but you do and the benefits are well worth it and will show for years to come. We recommend a clean body wash and lotion daily and a neck down body scrub at least once a week. Adding an SPF to your lotion ensures that your whole body is covered from harmful rays. You can never be too safe and if you’re worried about your tan, don’t, you’ll still get a healthy amount of color. Also, check out www.skindeep.com to check the ingredients of the products you’re already using, this is a super helpful site! It rates the toxin levels of personal care products. Remember that what you put ON your body is just as important as what you put IN! Clean daily personal care products are essential for true wellness.
Makeup To us makeup and skin care are one in the same. You need to make sure your makeup is just as clean and effective as your skin care. Makeup can only look its best when you’ve prepped the skin with amazing and beneficial skin care. It’s all in the ingredients; keep ‘em clean. You can do this with the products we recommend. Makeup Tips: We recommend a combination of products from multiple companies that we believe in. Most options are from Sweet Minerals and Arbonne. We recommend them because they have the cleanest makeup we found that still provides long lasting wear and great pigment choices! You can really wear any color you want. Go easy and keep it simple though. Wear colors that compliment your eyes. A soft bronzy glow is most flattering; very natural looking, nothing over the top. I would recommend a tinted moisturizer/cc cream, finishing power/bronzer, eye shadow, eye liner, mascara and a lip gloss. Remember that your face is the 1st place people look when you talk to them. Give a good show and enhance your natural beauty by using your makeup every day, even if you only use a few of the steps. Here is a perfect color palette for you depending on your coloring… Here is a video with tips on how to compliment your face shape with makeup. Click here
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Warm Neutral Coloring: Dark Hair or Dark Eyes with a Medium to Dark Skin Tone Bronzer, Blush, Eye Shadow 1 – 2 – 3 Gloss, Tinted Moisturizer, Eye Liner, Mascara, Naturalizing Mist
Cool Neutral Coloring: Light Hair or Light Eyes with a Fair to Medium Skin Tone Bronzer, Blush, Eye Shadow 1 – 2 – 3 Gloss, Tinted Moisturizer, Eye Liner, Mascara, Naturalizing Mist
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Hair Great hair comes from a combination of great products and a creative stylist. Picking products is just as important as picking a haircut or hair color. It’s a balanced formula that embraces your coloring, style and the texture of your hair. As we are with all of our product recommendations we like to keep our air products free of harmful chemicals. In the world of hair color that can be hard to do. So these recommendations come with a lot of thought in regards to limiting your chemical exposure while still delivering long lasting results. The way you wear your hair says a lot about you, so put on a good show. Hair Style Ideas: Search for style by your face shape; Oval, Heart, Long, Square Triangle or Round. Certain styles compliment certain face shapes just like certain clothes compliment certain body types. Here are a few quick tips for each: Oval: You tend to look good in everything, but this shape can appear long, so be careful not to add height on top of the head. Also, if your hair is thick or curly, avoid a blunt cut.
Round: You don't want add any fullness to a round shape so stay away from short curly hair and try a long style like one of these.
Triangle: A classic bob with fullness at the bottom or layers with flipped out ends are pretty for this
shape. Nothing too short and try tucking your hair behind your ear to show off your cheek bones.
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Heart:
This shape tends to come with a pointy chin so draw attention to your eyes and cheekbones instead.
Long: Long hair with long layers that hit at the cheekbones and the chin. Long, wavy hair also looks good on you because the waves add width to the sides of the long shape.
Square: You'll want to play down your strong, angular jaw. Texture, in the form of curls or choppy ends, does this brilliantly.
Daily Hair Products: If you’re coloring your hair, a sulphate free shampoo is the only way to go. If you don’t color treat your hair then your main objective is to find something that offers you the perfect balance of hydration. We think these options are pretty great! We have 2 options for both shampoo and conditioner; Basic and Color Treated. FC5 for Basic and Pure Vibrance for Color Treated. Both add botanical extracts, essential oils and the perfect balance of science and nature to leave your hair feeling refreshed, lightweight and easily manageable. Styling aids are important sometimes to arrive at the style you’re looking for. It’s hard to redirect your hair sometimes without the help of great styling products. Here are a few of our favorites: Pureology Shine Spray: Use this to add a shot of shine that doubles as a great SPF for your color. Use once you’re done styling. Its smells great, lasts long and looks fabulous in natural light. Get it here Hairspray: For style memory that boosts hold all day long, leaves hair with added volume, body, fullness and shine, PLUS it smells amazing! Humidity resistant, fast drying, extra firm hold and fullness. Leaves hair with added volume, body, fullness and shine. Could you ask for more? Get it here
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Curl Enhancer: Provides hold and control for defined curls and streamlined waves by enhancing natural texture. Helps protect against humidity. Get it here Tame Flyaways: After-Party hair crème for silky, smooth, shiny, healthy looking hair. Control the funky flyaways and silk-ify your hair. Get it here Preserve Your Blonde: Neutralizes unwanted yellow or brassy tones with a high level of violet dye. This violet shampoo will create a brighter tone to your light, colored hair, canceling out yellowness created by oxidation. Plus, it will add strength and protect your hair from environmental and physical damage. Get it here Weekly Hair Treatments: We think that sometimes all your hair needs is a little additional TLC. We recommend a weekly treatment in the shower to cut breakage, split ends and add shine. Deep Conditioner: Miracle Hair Mask: A restorative, deep conditioning treatment that delivers instant results! Get it here Wondering about Haircolor? We think all of these girls look beautiful, but if you are thinking about coloring work with this tip: The warmer your complexion the more warm tones you should put in your hair and the cooler your complexion the more cooler colors look better. Dark Skin: The whole idea is to create contrast between your color and your skin. For example on the left her skin is the same color as her hair and it just doesn’t pop and her features disappear. On the right her hair has a major contrast from her very deep brown/black hair to milk chocolate skin, and her features look amazing.
Olive Skin: Although she looks beautiful the picture on the left doesn’t really work. When you have an olive skin tone ebony brown, mocha, and or violet based colors enhance the natural warm tones of the complexion. On the right, the caramel highlights were placed right around the face to create depth. Subtle highlights of gold, honey, or caramel are best for dark hair, and olive skin tones.
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Medium Skin: On the left the more cool skin looks better with ashy colors like sand, or walnut brown. Her hair is too golden for her skin tone. On the right this works because warm skin tones look better with the warmer more golden colors.
Fair Skin: On the left her hair would look better a platinum, champagne or a more blue based color. The picture on the right works because the warmth of the golden blonde hair color is accentuating the warmth of her skin.
Pins That Show Great Hair:
Hairstyling Videos: How to do a High Ponytail, Get The Look: Runway Waves, How to Get Hair like Lauren Conrad, Silk & Curl Hair Like Kim Kardashian. For more videos on style visit our YouTube Channel. Click Here
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Personal Style Personal style is nothing more than your concept of cool + the realities of your daily life. So once we reveal what your days contain (ex: work, exercise, events, errands, housework, ect.) we can better decide which pieces within your Style Category are needed to complete your wardrobe so it’s efficient with who you are and what you do.
Find Your Celebrity Style Muse: Finding a celebrity that mimics your height, shape, style and coloring is so helpful because they are always researchable. If you have an event coming up and you want to see what the latest and greatest is, Google or Pinterest search her name with the word “style” behind it and you’ll see what your muse is wearing and you can start to build your look off of hers. Mainly for inspiration, you’re not trying to be identical to this person, just use her as a reference. Here is a few popular examples: Jen Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, Meryl Streep, Jessica Alba, Beyonce, Christina Hendricks and Jessica Simpson. Video Tip Clip: How to Drape a Scarf, Dressing a Tall Woman, Dressing a Short Woman, Seasonal On-Trend Accessories To Your Door, For more videos on style visit our YouTube Channel. Click Here
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Persona Style Quick Tips Personal Style Quick Tips: Keep stepping out of your box by complimenting your style with easy, natural colors and tones. Things that are “Body Skimming” are what you’re looking for. Nothing too tight that shows creasing and pulling. Pairing patterns with solids; on your upper body where the print and stick to darker solid colors on the bottom half of your body. Keep your patterns smaller than your fists and the length of both your skirts and pants to the floor or above the knee, nothing in between. Wear dresses when it’s time to impress colleagues. Keep the shape basic and in a print that isn’t too big or a solid. Something like this with a blazer, scarf or belt is very classy. Try more belts under and over your sweater, cardigan or blazer/jacket choices. It gives a very chic curve to your waist and acts as a focal point to your outfit. Scarves are a great way to incorporate new seasonal colors without spending too much. Remember that the polish you’re looking for comes from adding accessories every day, even if they seem unnecessary. They’ll bring compliments and those compliments will power you to keep trying new things! You’re beautiful and people will notice when you change things up a bit. Taking the extra time is essential. Make sure to take pictures of the new outfits you put together so you can create a photo-flip-book of outfits in your closet. It makes getting ready (and not forgetting what you have) so much easier!! Take some time out for yourself on Sunday’s to plan your week of outfits according to your schedule. Then flip through your photo book to see which outfits in your closet work best. Once you know what outfits you want start pulling out all the pieces you need and pair the outfits on the same hangar for every day of the week. Keeping in mind what outfits work best for transitioning you from day to night. This will save you SO much time in the mornings. Take things a step further when you’re getting ready to make sure you don’t stop before you’ve completed your entire look, meaning: clean face, clean-styled hair, makeup, manicure, pedicure, body lotion, top, bottom, outerwear, shoes, handbag, sunglasses, jewelry/scarf and a BIG FAT SMILE!!!! Think and feel your inner beauty and let it shine on the outside. Stretching yourself outside of your comfort zones will create big waves of positivity in your life! Wrap your “package” in a way that lets you feel young at heart and vibrant from within. The glow we all want comes from the feeling of being our best!! Remember that
Effortless Personal Style Comes When You Realize The Little Details Are Just As Important As The Outfit…
-Kathleen Watson, Style School KC
Dressing Your Body Type Your Body Type and Wardrobe Necessities that compliment it: My best advice…LOVE YOUR BODY SHAPE !! Knowing your body type, the styles that flatter it and the fashion trends that don't work for you make all the difference when dressing for your shape. With determining your body type comes embracing your curves, wearing clothes that accentuate your best features and loving your body that much more. Bring down those walls and spend some time in front of the mirror evaluating your features (not criticizing them). In the end, your body type could be your new best friend. Click to watch these videos that will help you identify which body type you are:
Apple Shaped, Pear Shaped, Hourglass Shaped and Rectangle/Boyish Shape 11
Apple Body Shape:
Body traits: The upper body is larger than the lower, hips are slim, and chest is on the larger side. Shoulders tend to be broad. Weight gain usually occurs above the waist in the mid sections and in the rear.
Your secret weapon: Those legs!
Your goals: Elongate the torso, show off your legs and downplay mid-section weight and shoulder width.
DO go for v-neck tops. They create the illusion of a longer torso.
DO look for v-neck wrap-style tops with cinching on the sides.
DO wear belts at the smallest part of your waist.
DO conceal tummy bulge by wearing empire tops and dresses.
DO wear low-rise jeans and pants in a straight leg. They are chic and stylish for most shapes.
DO wear shorter skirts to show off your legs. This takes attention away from and disguises the midsection.
DON'T bring attention to your waist.
DON'T wear oversized empire tops.
Avoid clothes with extra bulge in the middle and that bring attention to your lower body. Going bold with your shoe choices will give your legs the extra attention they deserve. Play around with funky, big necklaces, but keep it simple when it comes to belts.
If you have a short waist, middle is full or have a low bust line then pass on high waisted pants. They’ll cut your body line in half, shortening the appearance of your upper body and exaggerating the width of your shoulders in relation to your lower body.
Avoid skirts with full pleats gathered at the natural waist. This style will appear to cut your body in half, shortening the appearance of your torso and exaggerating your upper body.
If you have a short waist opt for shirts that you can wear untucked at hipbone length, paired with
smooth waistlines. Treatments like ruching, peplum and button front minimize a full bust and torso. Shopping List: Pants & Jeans
Straight Leg, Cigarette, Skinny Jeans, Slim Fit Jeans (achieving the right fit through the butt is what you’re looking for)
Skirts
Flared, Pencil & Straight Skirts
Tops
Tunics, Boxy Printed & Tailored to wrap the breasts in something where your curves show, but dont overwhelm your smaller bottom half
Jackets & Coats
Blazer, Shirt Jacket, Cardigan & Pea Coat (at hip level only)
Dresses
Shift, Shirtdress, T-Shirt, Drop Waisted, Fit and Flare
Accessories
Scarves, Large Handbags, Daytime Clutch , Bracelets & Big Earrings
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Pear Body Shape
Body traits: The lower body is larger than the upper, hip width exceeds shoulder width, and hips and butt are rounded with a defined waist. The chest and belly are fairly flat.
Your secret weapon: Shoulders, torso and flat stomach
Your goals: Show off arms, add shape to your upper body and down play wide hips to heighten upper body features.
DO look for boat neck tops, square and cowl necklines.
DO wear strapless dresses. They show off arms and even out proportions.
DO try styles with ruffles on top. This also evens out proportions.
DO experiment with light-colored tops and dark-colored bottoms for contrast.
DO wear jackets that hit right above the waist.
DO rock a pair of straightleg jeans.
DO try a-line skirts, which camouflage wider hips.
Be brave when choosing your necklaces; don't be afraid to make a statement! Scarves are also a great, easy way to add volume to your upper body.
Try pants in a dark denim and firm cotton with a little stretch as a flattering variation on jeans, just make sure they are hemmed to wear with heels.
Choose pant styles without cuffs unless you are tall.
A skimming rather than tight fit on pants and jeans works every time. Always look for uncomplicated styling and hem your jeans and pants long enough to wear with a least a one to one and a half inch heel for a longer and leaner looking leg and higher looking backside. Avoid small patch pockets set on the high middle of your butt, elaborate stitching and cargo pockets on your front hip area.
For skirts choose dark neutral bottoms in fabrics like superfine wools, midweight matte jersey, washed silks (A-line) and firm wool and cotton twill (straight styles). Wear enough of a heel height to lengthen your legs. Knee-high boots and pumps with a low heel will also slim you.
Avoid bells and whistles on your bottoms. Appliques and fussy horizontal trims unless they are monochromatic or tonal, spare and placed on the diagonal. Oversized prints; plaids, horizontal pattern; will draw the eye to your lower body. Keep your choices simple and save the visual interest for tops.
In general, your tops should hit you at your hipbone to keep your torso long-looking, while avoiding a line across the broadest part of your backside for the smoothest blending of your tops to bottoms.
Avoid any top that hits you at your naval or above; it will visually cut your body in half and accentuate the proportionate difference between your upper and lower body.
With jackets avoid the traditional boxy style; it will hide your torso and give you a blocky line as the eye moves up and down.
To extend your shoulder line for balance and definition, have a tailor put in a thin shoulder pad. A little extra definition helps.
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Shopping List: Pants & Jeans
Straight Leg & Boot Leg; low on your waist (skinny and cigarette style jeans make you look wide-hipped and bottom heavy) Dark stretch denim works best, nothing cropped
Skirts
A-Line & Straight Skirts
Tops
Tailored & Fitted, Boat Neck, Square Neck & V-neck, Wrap Tops, Banded Tops
Jackets & Coats
Blazers, Nipped Waist, Belted, Bloused or Banded, Military or Bomber, A-Line Dress Coat
Dresses
Empire Waist & Wrap Dresses
Accessories
Scarves, Heavy Necklaces, Big Earrings (draw weight to upper body to balance lower body)
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Hourglass Body Shape
Body traits: The upper and lower body have similar proportions, while the waist remains narrow. Any extra weight in the hourglass figure usually lies in the hips, thighs and chest area.
Your secret weapon: Curves, curves and more curves.
Your goals: Find a middle ground between baggy, drab clothing and overly sexy clothing. Show off your curves, balance the weight of your curves, complement your curves... did we mention your curves?
DO wear fitted dresses.
DO wear a belt at the waist to enhance your hourglass shape.
DO try wrap dresses.
DO go for high-waisted skirts to show off your hips.
DO pick thin, lightweight styles and fabrics.
DO wear skinny or straightleg jeans.
DON'T hide your curves.
DON'T wear baggy clothing.
Your body shape loves waist accents for the wonders they work for curves, but stick to high-waist belts and avoid hip-style belts. Just as your body loves curves, your feet will, too! Look for shoes with rounded toes and remember: Find a balance between too sexy and not sexy enough.
Avoid very straight, tight fits (skinny, cigarette). They’ll make you look wide-hipped and bottom heavy.
Try suede, matte leather, cotton velvets, narrow cords, closely placed vertical stripes on your bottoms.
If you have a long waist watch out for cuts with a very low rise, your torso will look disproportionately long and will exaggerate the width of your hips and bottom if they are full.
With shorts, always take into consideration the height and length of your legs. Stay clear of shorts that hit exactly at midthigh, a length that will visually widen and shorten your leg line. Choose something shorter and longer than midpoint.
Watch out for that camp-counselor-meets-lady-gym-teacher look in your shorts, no chunky workout sneakers! Depending on your destination, opt for a sleek flat sandal or a slim style sneaker instead.
On your prints, the busier your bottom or top the simpler the other piece should be, to avoid a costumed, unless you are educated and comfortable with mixing prints and color balance.
With shirts, if you’re busty, avoid breast pockets, pleating and ruffles. Details that add volume and texture over your bust will look fussy and overdone. Fabrics like cotton, silk and chiffon work well.
On coats avoid any fabric that adds bulk and hides your curves. Remember to look for drape. Skins like shearling or leather should be supple and soft and have a skimming fit or a subtly shaped construction. Pass on double breasted and boxy or oversized blazers or jackets. They’ll hide your waist and give you a blocky line.
For dresses look for sheath dresses that hit at the knee and can be worn sleeveless, layered or with a blazer or jacket.
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Shopping List: Pants & Jeans
Flat Front, Boot Leg & Flare Leg; low on your waist (skinny and cigarette style jeans make you look wide-hipped and bottom heavy) , nothing cropped
Skirts
Pencil, A-Line, Tiered & Straight Skirts
Tops
Soft Blouse, T-shirts, V-necks, Wrap Tops
Jackets & Coats
Blazers, Nipped Waist, Belted, Cardigan, Wrap Coat, Single Breasted Dress Coat
Dresses
Nipped Waist Sheath Dress, Tank Dress, Strapless & Wrap Dresses
Accessories
Scarves, Heavy Necklaces, Big Earrings, Belts, Large Handbag, Bracelets
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Rectangle Body Shape
Body traits: The waist, hip and shoulder widths are similar to each other, usually on the slim side. Extra weight in the rectangle shape tends to hang out in the stomach and back regions. Some rectangles have smaller breasts, but this is not always true.
Your secret weapon: Your arms and legs. Because you don't need to minimize any body features, you have more freedom than the other body shapes to experiment with different trends and styles.
Your goals: Create curves, show off slender legs and arms
DO wear scoop neck and sweetheart tops. It helps create curves.
DO wear long jackets to create a lean look.
DO wear skinny, low-rise jeans.
DO wear tops with collars, ruffles and details to flatter your chest.
DO layer! It gives your rectangle figure more dimensions.
DO wear dresses with ruching. Cinches on sides are ideal.
DON'T go braless.
DON'T wear overwhelming styles.
Everything you wear should help create curves and dimension, right down to the shoe you choose. Don't go for styles that are too boyish, and avoid boots with no shape. Waist belts can be your best friend in creating the illusion of curves.
If you have a short waist, middle is full or have a low bust line then pass on high waisted pants. They’ll cut your body line in half, shortening the appearance of your upper body and exaggerating the width of your shoulders in relation to your lower body.
If your bottom is flat, watch out for very low rises, which will make it appear more so by exaggerating the straight line from your torso into your hips and bottom. Instead, try them a little higher on your hip with a medium-wide, contoured belt to create the illusion of curvier, rounder hips and butt.
Watch out for that camp-counselor-meets-lady-gym-teacher look in your shorts, no chunky workout sneakers! Depending on your destination, opt for a sleek flat sandal or a slim style sneaker instead.
With skirts, plaids cut on the horizontal or diagonal will flatter you but make sure any plaid you choose matches perfectly at the seams. You can pull off mid-to-large scale prints and patterns because you are leaner through your hips.
Avoid skirts with full pleats gathered at the natural waist. This style will appear to cut your body in half, shortening the appearance of your torso and exaggerating your upper body.
If you have a short waist opt for shirts that you can wear untucked at hipbone length, paired with smooth waistlines. Treatments like ruching, peplum and button front minimize a full bust and torso.
Look for shirt styles with soft sleeve treatments that deemphasize your shoulders like with a wrap shirt, kimono, worn hip length with smooth bottoms.
Avoid shirts with a widening effect like: horizontal lined boatnecks, stripes or anything that widens your upper body to visually look wider than your hips even though it’s an illusion.
With jackets look for a low stance (meaning that the “v” where the lapels meet the buttons). Look for jackets where the buttons start at the belly button to elongate your upper body.
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If you have a full bust, pass on prominent breast pockets on your jackets and coats. If your shoulders are broad, bypass wide lapels as well as any set-in puffy sleeves, which will exaggerate their width in relation to your lower. Also remove all shoulder pads, mother nature has you covered there!
For dresses you’re tall enough to pull off a dress over leggings or smooth pants look. Also buying junior sized dresses are like long shirts on you and can be worn the same way. Try this look in lightweight
fabrics with sandals for day and heels for night. Shopping List: Pants & Jeans
Take your pick, with narrow hips your option are endless: Hip Huggers, Trousers, Skinny Jeans, Leggings, Wide Legs & Boot Cut
Skirts
Torso Skirts, Flare, Pencil & A-Line
Tops
Tailored & Fitted, V-Neck, Blouson, Sleeveless, avoid horizontal lines so it doesn’t widen your upper body
Jackets & Coats
Blazer, Shirt Jacket/Cardigan, Belted, Peplum, Trench Coat, Pea Coat
Dresses
Shift, Tunic, Strapless, Shirt Dress, A-Line, Wrap Dress & Kimono
Accessories
Scarves, Large Handbag, Daytime Clutch, Belts & Bracelets
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Color Test Your Skin Tone: Your underlying skin tone plays a large part in determining what colors suit you best. Pinch the skin on your earlobe, the back of your hand or the tip of your finger. The skin color you see for the following few seconds is your underlying skin color. If you see blue, pink, red-violet or rosy tones, you'll look best in cool colors. If you see peach, golden, bright warm red or coral tones, warm colors are your best choices. The Right Colors For Your Hair Color: Blondes look great in warm and bright shades such as yellows, oranges and rusts, as well as tans and taupes. Brunettes can wear a wide variety of colors, including greens, blues, oranges, chocolate browns and pinks. Redheads look best in browns and oranges, as well as taupes, ivories and greens. Those with gray hair will look good in bright colors such as red, rose, plum, purples and berry, and jewel tones such as bright blues, clear greens and bold golds. Black and a real navy blue look good, but stay away from grays and pastels, beiges and tans. In general, choose bold, bright colors to wear near your face. Cool Colors: Light Hair or Light Eyes with a Fair to Medium Skin Tone. You tend to burn first, then tan and you look best in silver jewelry and silver tones. Pins That Show How To Wear Them:
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Warm Colors: Dark Hair or Dark Eyes with a Medium to Dark Skin Tone You tend to tan, not burn and you look best in gold jewelry and gold tones.
Pins That Show How To Wear Them:
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Creating Instant Outfits Understanding the Fashion Formula: A huge part of what we do is help you de-code the fashion you see in magazines, on Pinterest and on the streets. How we do this, so putting together dynamic outfits becomes easy, is teach you a “formula” for pairing together outfits. Now that you know what types of pieces work best with your body it’s really easy. The key is to stick with styles and fabrics that work for your body, draping and skimming and never clinging. This plays up your assets and down your flaws. Pull the pieces from what you see to match the formula and create a list of what you come up with. Next, cross off the pieces you already have in your closet and shop for the rest, taking your picture with you for direction and inspiration! Here’s an example of how we did it for every body type…
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Accessorizing Using Accessory Sets: One other thing we recommend is using accessory sets for no-brainer accessorizing on a daily basis. Piecing together accessories is time consuming and out of most clients comfort zone. Here are a few suggestions of go-to accessory sets that allow you to add confident detail to any outfit no matter what the occasion. You can probably start piecing together sets in our suggested categories from items you already have. Then just make a quick list of what you’re missing and adding/completing it is easy. Here are some we recommend for every woman’s closet… Black and Gold Black and Silver Brown and Gold Brown and Aged Brass Red, White and Black Mixture of Creative Textures and Patterns Black Tie/Cocktail Set in Black and Silver or Black and Gold Each Set Includes These Pieces: Handbag Clutch Bracelets Earrings Ring Sunglasses Necklace Belt Hat Scarf Flat Shoe Heel/Wedge Shoe Knee High Boots Heel/Flat Outerwear: Cardigan, Jacket, Blazer, Coat Invest in 2 accessories a month until you complete the sets you want, and you’ll have the ability to create so many more outfits from a small group of clothing, rather than creating your interest from the clothing alone. It’s a great way to add in season trends and color without spending a fortune and accessories are the absolute key in creating an overall polished look. Keep piling on the pieces in each set until you feel like you’ve done enough, then out the door! You won’t always wear all of it, but if you have completed sets that are stored and separated together you will find SO much ease in using them. I promise! Pins That Show Great Accessorizing:
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Your Personal Shopping List Wardrobe Checklist: Below is a list of bare bones, tend-proof necessities for any wardrobe; it’s a great place to start. Take and inventory and see what you need to add so shopping is always productive and money well spent. Here is also a video that can help. Click here Two pairs of dark pants Simple, skimming cut in a crisp fabric for day Fuller leg in a fabric that drapes for day and evening Two pairs of jeans One hemmed to wear with heels One hemmed to wear with flats, sneakers Three skirts Clean lines like pencil, trouser or A-line in black or in lightweight wool A-line, bias, or circle in a fabric with drape for day and evening Neutral in a mixable fabric which can include chalk strip or tweed A white button-front shirt or T-shirts (of course) Three sweaters (seasonless, lightweight merino or cashmere) Black (must tonally match your black bottoms) Another neutral choice—skin tone flattering Rich Color Two Jackets Tailored jacket that matches one pair of your dark pants (black is your best bet) Sporty shape in a refined fabric, like a bomber, motorcycle jacket, windbreaker style in leather, suede, corduroy, soft wool, cotton twill; something that goes to work and works for play! Three Coats Trench coat or any riff on this classic that flatters you both for rain and between seasons in a light neutral color or black. Between seasons knee-length coat that works for day and night in leather, suede or tweed Winter coat (especially if your location requires is) in the best fabric you can afford. Four Dresses One little black dress that fits your every curve in all the right ways and hits above the knee One small lightweight print in your best color palette that hits above the knee One sweater dress in a solid jewel tone color and above the knee length One that when you first see it you say “Man I want to be able to wear that!” Snag it immediately! Accessories Handbags: One in a neutral leather, and One in black Sets in Black/Silver, Brown/Gold, Black Tie/Special Occasion Scarves: 1-2 lightweight and 1-2 for warmth Shoes Heels: One in a short-kitten heel, and One in Black as high as you can stand Flats: Embellished, comfortable ones in Black, Brown, Neutral or Metallic Boots: One Knee High Heel in Black, and One short heel or flat brown knee high riding boot Sandals: Embellished, comfortable ones in Black, Brown, Neutral or Metallic
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Subscribing As a Swag Society member, you can receive a beautiful box of personalized, clean, results-driven products, and on-trend accessory pieces every month that’ll help you arrive at a head to toe personal style that is perfect for you. After filling out a quick profile about yourself, your hobbies and how you spend your days we pick items to include in your monthly Polish Pack that will compliment who you are, what you do and most of all what you like! After a few months you’ll have a better grasp on what products, colors and fashion best suits you and within a year you’ll have a very extensive, versatile selection of accessories that will add the polish you need to make any outfit a complete and eye catching one. This leaves a woman feeling in control, confident and ready for any day or occasion. If you’ve ever looked at another woman and thought, “Wow she looks really well put together, I wish I could do that!” Then this is the membership for you…. Join The Swag Society today and start experiencing the benefits of a personal stylist without such an investment of time and money. We promise that this membership will grow you in a way that will serve you forever. This isn’t your average “beauty box” subscription. You can Feel polished, Look effortless with The Swag Society… Click here to get a description of each subscription. Prices start at $25, up to $200.
Also receive special updates exclusive to subscribers vial social media and email. Take a peek at our Blog where we cover topics on Mind+Body+Skin& Style multiple times each week.
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Interact With Us: 1. Shop: www.TheSwagSoceity.com to order any products you’d like to purchase. Most orders take a week to receive and everything can be taken care of online with shipment to your doorstep; shipping is always free 2. Subscribe: for a Monthly or Seasonal Polish Pack to keep your wardrobe growing in all the right, ontrend ways. Check out our multiple subscriptions options. And don’t forget to fill out your personal questionnaire so we can hand pick each box specifically for you. 3. Share: Create an account with The Swag Society and share your link with friends, family and co-workers so you can start earning points today towards future online purchases. 4. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram , YouTube and Subscribe to our Newsletters so you don’t miss a thing!
Enjoy and Shine On! Tricia
&
Kathleen
Keep in mind a few of our favorite quotes:
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OUR SPRING 2014 TREND UPDATE
Fashion changes, but Style endures‌
-Coco Chanel
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1. 1990′s: For the 3rd season in a row, the 1990s proves as popular as ever. This time around, the decade gets revamped with either a late ’80s bedazzled twist, or with late ’90s minimalism. Baby-doll dresses, doc martens and round wire shades are just a small sampling of the possibilities this trend brings. Try one element and see how you like it, if it feels great, add others.
2. Art-Inspired: Spring’s runways may as well have been a canvas out of your favorite gallery. Considering art-like prints will upgrade your look easily and show you’re not afraid of grabbing peoples attention.
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3. Athletic: Even feminine designers embraced the sporty trend, which saw hats, sneakers and sport jerseys revamped once again. Mix this trend with other feminine pieces like a ball hat and blazer, or a fitted jersey with a leather skirt or pant. There are endless combinations.
4. Cobalt Blue: Blue proves the warmest color for designers in each fashion city. While pastels like pink and mint green are still trendy, this watery hue is bigger than ever. Use it in your accessories, skinny jeans, prints and solids. It’s a striking color that goes with a lot, but its best paired with a simple black and white mix.
5. Crop Tops: Don’t throw away that gym membership, baring your abs is just as popular as it was last spring. There IS a way to do this that’s very classy and sophisticated. I don’t recommend a crop top that bears more than an inch or two. Think of it like more of a peek-a-boo look. Pairing a long sleeved crop with a high waisted skirt is my favorite and almost only way to pull off this trend without headlining a what not to wear list.
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6. Embellishments: Whether with sequins, lace, studs, floral embroidery or jewels, bling is the new thing. Keep it to only one piece per outfit because overkill on this trend is easily done.
7. Metallic: Metallic treatments provide the perfect foil for spring — vivid, edgy and most importantly, highly wearable. Using this trend on your bottom half or in accessories is the way to go. I would pull out the gold lamea button up, Id go for the pleated skirt or herum pant. You can’t go wrong with it on your shoes. A little extra something on your tooties is a great way to introduce this trend to your wardrobe.
8. Pleats: This sporty method was all over the place, from plaid skirts on the street, to shimmering dresses on the runway. Designers are using lightweight and even sheer fabrics which give this trend a solid usable update for Spring.
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9. Sheer: If you’re not willing to bare it all this season, get in on the trend by investing in a pack of great fitting cami’s and add overlays in all the bright colors. Pairing this combination with white skinnies, shorts and skirts is a great way to show your shape without giving it all away.
10. Worldly: This season’s worldly inspirations are just that, worldly. Think global, think about what you would see if you were traveling in an effortless way. Instead of focusing on one locale or culture, designers referenced everything from Geisha girls to Masai costumes. My tip is to check our national geographic or street style in other countries and see what catches your eye. Take the prints and colors you see and add them to your casual wardrobe. It’s a great way to sneak in this trend without overdoing it.
We hope this helps assist you with your Spring/Summer 2014 wardrobe update. When you’re shopping bring a long this list and see what you’re favorite stores have to offer. Designers keep us everyday women in mind and take these runway looks and put them in pieces that we can actually wear and use easily. When you’re dressing for work or play there’s no need to feel you should replicate the runway looks, just add pieces of what you see and mix them with what you already have. That’s the best way to ensure that what you add for the season is in balance with who you are and what you like. Using the trends minimally will give you the polish you’re looking for without going crazy with it… Have fun!
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BE
balanced BE
fluid BE
you..
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