"Does this outfit make me look fat?"

Fat days: we all have them.  In fact, I’m swimming in one as we speak.

Mother Nature graciously handed me my monthly gift one week early this month, so I’m preparing for a handful of them, at least. 

These days of extra bloat (or burger) are when you really want an outfit that’s going to make you feel extra-gorgeous. Unfortunately for you, that outfit you spent half your paycheck on last week specifically for days like this now makes you look like a pregnant hooker (go ahead- take a minute to picture that).

Fortunately, I’m here with a few simple rules to help:

Rule #1: Nix the Gym Wear

I know your first instinct is to grab the loosest item of clothing you own, throw it on, and pray for the day to end, but hiding behind a curtain isn’t going to solve your problem. In fact, it’s going to make you look even bigger.

Instead, go for something with structure like a blazer or a wide belt over a long, collared shirt.

(picture courtesy of www.freepeople.com)

Rule #2: Black Isn’t the Only Color

We all know that black is slimming and if you’re content with that then rock it! However, if you want a little bit more variety (especially if you’re dealing with consecutive fat-days like me) then opt for a navy blue or deep violet to even out the color palette a little bit.

Another option is to add a brightly colored scarf, jewelry, or hair accessory to your sea of black (which is great to do even on non-fat days!).

(picture courtesy of Google images: Rachel Bilson)

Rule #3: Think Light, Be Light

Lightweight clothing does wonders for your body and body-image. You’ll not only look thinner, but you’ll feel thinner, too.

Flowing summer dresses give this effect perfectly.

(picture courtesy of www.hippiegirl.com)

Rule #4: Pile On the Miles

Heels, heels, and more heels. The higher the better. Heels add height. We all know that the taller you are the more you can weigh without looking “fat”. Obviously, your body fat doesn’t actually shift when you tack on a four-inch stiletto, but the illusion works just as well.

(picture courtesy of www.shoeuser.com)

So, the next day you're packing on a few extra pounds don't let it ruin your fashion day. Just follow my rules and strut your stuff like the hottie you are!

XoXo;

LAFF

Style? Yes!

YesStyle.com is an Asian-based web site, offering a variety of brand named merchandise from all over Asia to wherever you reside in the world. Shipping to the United States is only US$9.95 (FREE on orders exceeding US$150). All prices are measured in US dollars and because sizes differ from country to country each merch page offers a sizing chart.

Shipping information varies by brand, but many items ship in 1-2 business days!

Tonight I've ordered these four items of clothing. Their prices are affordable; the entire order costing me only $65.90 (plus shipping). And hopefully they're worth every penny!

I'll be getting the order in within the next week and I'll let you know. But in the meantime check it out! At the very least you'll get some cute outfit ideas. The models are so cute/fun and they really get into posing for the camera.

More later. It's my bedtime. ^_^

XoXo,

LAFF

Fall Fashion for Back to School

I keep hearing about jeggings, jeggings, jeggings!! And, I'll have to admit- while I HATE the name, they are pretty awesome. They're about as versatile as the more "traditional" leggings, but they're more substantial.

These juicy couture jeggings are great, but if they're out of your budget don't be TOO upset. The word got out FAST, so you're likely to find them at any department store, as well as AE, PacSun, Aero, ect.

Jegging Tip: Opt for a jegging with pockets. Pockets are one of the benefits to wearing jeggings as opposed to leggings, so don't miss out.

Of course, if you want to REALLY be a fashion star when you walk into school this September, I suggest Levi's new Curve IDs. They're hush-hush enough that they're still exclusive to the Levi's stores, but people are starting to talk, so get them while they're still new. They may be a little bit more pricey, but they're SO worth it!!

More about Curve IDs: Each traditional size is now seperated further into three distinct "shapes." SLIGHT for women who's jeans generally fit at the seat, but are too tight in the waist, DEMI for women who's jeans fit but don't flatter, and BOLD for women who usually have a little too much wiggle room at the waist.

After jeans, cardigans are probably my favorite item of clothing. They're incredibly versatile and always fashionable. Those three-quarter length cardigans you wore last spring will transfer perfectly to fall. I love dark colors with ruffles like the cute one on the right for those days when you feel bloated, because it has a great slimming effect.

And the boyfriend trend is still strong. My suggestion for the fall: keep your eye out for extra long or oversized, longsleeved cardigans with large buttons, like the one on the left. A good place to start looking- Urban Outfitters. They'll go great with your jeggings ^_~

Plaid came up LAST fall and it has proven season after season to hold strong. So, if you've got any plaid from last year whip 'em out again! Money's hard to come by these days, after all. If you can recycle old clothes then by all means, do it.

My favorite use of plaid: plaid dresses!!! They're cute, casual, and just the right amount of feminine

Military/surplus. This might be my favorite new-er trend and though it popped up here and there this past spring and summer it fits much better with the fall season.

The fall/winter staple: An army/olive green military jacket like this one (up top) from Anne Taylor Loft.

XoXo;

LAFF