Ask Elyse: Stiletto Strain

Dear Elyse,

I love to wear high heels but I wear them so frequently that my feet are starting to complain. Is there anything I can do to make it easier to wear heels more often?

Thanks much,

Molly

Dear Molly,

I agree that while high heels are probably one of the most gorgeous staples a girl can have in her wardrobe, they can do some serious damage on her poor peds. In order to alleviate, and even prevent the damage, one has to first discover the problem. It could be a single element or a combination of them that’s causing your discomfort.

If the back of your shoes slides off your heel with every step you’ve purchased a pair that’s a little too big for you, and this motion is known to cause a jarring sensation as well as the feeling of your toes being squished like grapes when the shoe fails to balance your weight. The solution? I absolutely swear by Foot Petals, which offers a high performance pad that sits inside the heel area of a shoe to help grip and prevent the heel from slipping off. This nifty little necessity will also prevent snags in hosiery.

If your toes find themselves in the cramped conditions pointy or open toe shoes provide, Tip Toes, also by Foot Petals, grip and cushion in order to give your little piggies the air room they need.

If your issue is that you’re always on the move and your feet can’t take the strain, try Killer Kushionz. When placed beneath your arch, the Kushionz will work tirelessly toward preventing fatigue on feet, legs, and the lower back by absorbing shock and cushioning your every step.

An alternative to these ingenious devices is to retire your heels, if only for a day or so, every once and a while. Flats and low-lying wedges have just as much potential to be sexy.

Hope this helps,

Elyse

Ask Elyse: Bling Blunder

Dear Elyse,

I'd like to work the recent rhinestone / sequin trend into my wardrobe but I'm not sure how to do it without looking a little tacky. Any tips?

Thanks,

Rina

Dear Rina,

The thing to always remember when it comes to accents like sequins and rhinestones is that they are accents. If you want something a bit sparkly as a focal point in your ensemble then I suggest some glitzy statement jewelry, but when it comes to clothing always make sure that you choose items that are only complemented by bling rather than dominated.

If you still feel like you're flying blind I recommend browsing these examples here:

Twisted Heart Glam Tank
E.Vil Angel Wing Tank
Bailey 44 Sorceress Top
Twisted Heart Fleur de Love Cardi
Fifteen Twenty Sequin Tank

Hope this helps,

Elyse

A Cut Above

The Fall 2010 runways at Paris Fashion Week kept last spring's ubiquitous cutout trend alive, resulting in slashes, perforations and gaping holes galore. And to think of all the moth-eaten sweaters and holey T-shirts we've stupidly thrown out over the years. This new provocative way to dress is strategically sexy: discreetly peekaboo, transparent but not trashy.

Take a look at these trend-setting cutout looks ... or just grab some scissors and start cutting.

Ask Elyse: A Problem with Heights

Dear Elyse,

I have a build that's long and slender to the point of looking a little awkward. What's the best way to balance out my frame?

Thank you,

Allison

Dear Allison,

Balancing out your build is as simple as creating a fashionable focal point to segment your shape into shorter lengths. A midsized belt at your natural waist will give you the best balance, but a chunky statement necklace like here will work just as well and they're so en mode this season.

An extra tip I would offer is to stay away from shorter length tops and high waisted jeans, which will only have you looking even more coltish.

Hope this helps,
Elyse

Back in Black

Florals and saturated hues made our last fall fashion line-up seem unseasonably warm but now the classic drama of black has returned to the runways with refreshing new styles.

Strong themes among designers included the traditional military trends, silky gowns suited for silver screen starlets from the fifties, as well as heavy fur and feather textures that wouldn't be out of place in the more glamorous parts of Russia.

Shop this ageless trend at UrbanMinx.

Earn Your Stripes

Stripes made a strong comeback this season at New York's Fall RTW, though not in the conventional sense. Straightforward (and slightly nautical) stripes were out. In their place is every abstract interpretation of the line ever conceived.

Pictured above are the most traditional faces of the trend, but Fashion Week attendees saw everything from organic stripes verging on tribal to heavily structured styles branching every which way.

Shop the fresh faced stripes trend at UrbanMinx!

Also, learn how to wear stripes by visiting this how-to blog.

HiLo: Trench Wardrobe-Fare

Ruffles have always been an accent that speaks of frivolous fun, and they're positively charming when put to this pair of spring-pale trenches. Throw in a smattering of gold-hued hardware and it's absolute magic.

These trenches are two of a kind and equally covetable, so how do you choose? Let's make it easy. Lovely as the Valentino on the left may be, its $1100 price tag poses a poor front against Juicy's $300 Daisy Ruffle Coat.

You can shop the better deal at UrbanMinx.

Ask Elyse: In the Cards

Dear Elyse,

I'm looking for that clothing piece that will help shift my wardrobe from winter to spring without too much trouble. Can you offer any ideas?

Thanks,
Denise

Dear Denise,

The item you're looking for is hands-down the cardigan. Now before you assume that cardigans are just for women with older tastes, consider all the fun new styles coming out like the military, grandfather or collegiate style cardigans. There's a look for everybody these days. The cardigan is a great transitional piece - lightweight and easily layered, but substantial enough to keep the last patches of cold weather at bay.

Hope this helps,
Elyse

Ask Elyse: Coming Up Short

Dear Elyse,

I'd love to get the Miss Me Belted Linen Shorts in Off White but I'm not sure how to wear them. Do you have any tips?

Thanks,
Christa

Dear Christa,

Some shorts can inspire some pretty cringe-worthy styles but these particular shorties are pure class and even offer a little wiggle room as far as what you can wear them with.

If you look at this Anna Sui ensemble or this Tommy Hilfiger version you'll see that the big spring trend is to go a little baggy up top. The shorts' fit will have a slender enough fit that you won't feel like you're swimming in fabric and looser cuts are always more forgiving to the female figure.

For a more collegiate air, choose something colorful and cropped close to your frame. This way you can tuck the top in for a cleaner lines. To avoid looking too buttoned-up, try layering it with a draped cardigan.

As far as colours go, that linen white will match with just about anything. Don't be afraid to mix and match!

Hope this helps,
Elyse

Ask Elyse: Bright Eyes

Dear Elyse,

I really love the colorful eye cosmetics that have been so popular lately, but every time I try them I look way overdone. How can I wear these shades without looking too painted?

Thanks,
Abigail

Dear Abigail,

When it comes to bright colors my motto is 'everything in moderation.' Not only will it save you from looking like you've just crossed over from the red light district, but setting an eye-popping shade against more modest hues will make the effect all the more dramatic.

If you're used to a medium- to heavy-coverage foundation, opt instead for a tinted moisturizer that will lighten your look immediately. Blush should be understated and lips doubly so. Pinkish nudes are the current mode.

As far as your actual eyes go, make sure that the lines of color are clean and crisp to avoid the night-after look. Otherwise, go nuts. This trend is all about showing your colors.

Hope this helps,
Elyse

Ask Elyse: In a Stitch

Dear Elyse,

I found some fab jeans with a great fit and I want to be able to wear them right away. The only problem is they're just a little bit too long and I can't get them tailored until next week. Is there something that will give my jeans a temporary lift.

Thanks,
Bridget

Dear Bridget,

I understand your enthusiasm! A good pair of jeans is a rare find. If you really want to wear them this minute, see if you can't wrestle up some heels to hide the height. Not only will it add those extra inches to fill the jean, it will make your legs look extra long and slender.

An alternative to consider is Hem Tape from Bristol Six. Hem Tape is an adhesive band built to hitch up your denim. It works well for too-long denim and also gives you the option to change up your jeans by making length options unlimited.

Hope this helps,
Elyse

Denim Download

Earlier this week we discussed the importance of a good pair of jeans to give your wardrobe a leg up in the new year, but finding the right pair is just as important. We've compiled a few tips to help you find the denim which works best for your body type.

Apple: Bootcut or flared jeans are better for balancing out your proportions, and high-waisted jeans are best, like the 7 For All Mankind High Waisted Bootcut with Crystals in Archer Heights. Medium-sized pockets are recommended so that curves look emphasized and not oversized.You may find that trouser jeans are to your taste.

Hourglass: A dark, clean wash will slim one’s thighs and bottom instantly. Rather than cover up your curves, curtail them with stretch denim. Maintain balance with midsize pockets, wide legs, and high rise cuts. The Joe’s Jeans Honey, Hudson Jeans Wide Leg Patch Jean in Abyss, Paige Premium Denim Robertson Jetset Jean in Atlantis, or Red Engine jeans have what you’re looking for.

Pear: Make sure to select a pair that has little to no distressing on them as this will add unwanted dimension to your legs and rear. Stick with a dark or basic wash as these have an all over slimming affect. Always be sure that the jeans you buy fit in the waist area. They should not be too tight or give the appearance of the dreaded “muffin-top.” A higher rise jean is recommended. Avoid tapered legs that make your behind look like a balancing act. Mid-sized, centered pockets flatter this shape most.

Straight: Take the path of the straight and narrow, in denim styles at least. Embellished or flap pockets will create curves when wanted, and a longer rise will keep your shape in balance.

For more specialized tips, refer to the UrbanMinx denim guide here!

Ask Elyse: Downsizing

Dear Elyse,

I regret that I over-indulged a bit over the holidays so I'm looking to find a way to slim down my silhouette in time for New Year's. Any tips?

Thank you,

Breanne

Dear Breanne,

The holidays are all about going a little overboard, so you're not alone if you're still feeling that Christmas feast.

First off, I have to tell you that light colours are not your friend of the moment. Darker shades will always present a more slender silhouette. Also, opt for more forgiving (though not necessarily looser) fabrics with only a little extra stretch to them. This way your outfit will allow for a little wiggle room without letting it all hang out. I recommend ponte knit trousers like the 7 For All Mankind Bootcut in Double Knit Black or Tag's Stretch Knit Bootcut in Black.

The same rules apply for formal attire. Stay in the darker shades and avoid jersey knits. Dresses from Stop Staring! are cut in millenial fabric perfect for creating a sleek silhouette by sucking in all the right bits of your anatomy. If you're looking for something a little less clingy, opt for a dress in the empire style, which flatters the bust but makes sure your midsection only exists in imagination.

Lastly, heels always help. Not only will they encourage you to stand straighter (and slimmer), they will elongate your legs and give you a tighter appearance.

Hope this helps and happy holidays,
Elyse

What to Wear: Party Like a Rockstar

We're seeing a lot of edgy looks on the runway this winter -exposed zippers, studs, bondage boots, and black leather have all been making an appearance.

While the look can find its roots in the punk rock movement of the eighties, you don't need to be an angst-ridden teenager to rock this style.

The updated rock look has more than an ounce of class with a feminine facet now in consideration. The studs in this Bailey 44 'Whip It Good' Tank are a good way to work edge in without being over the top. A set of Zipper Leggings underneath will make for a slim silhouette. Top them with the luxe Motorcycle Jacket from Juicy Couture and you're ready to roll.

This look is all about being bold, so don't be afraid to throw in a flash of colour like this Juicy Couture Patent Hobo and a set of femme fatale earings like these Jet Chandeliers. Shoes should be sassy but understated like a pair of peep toes with noticeable hardware.

Ask Elyse: Denim Blues

Dear Elyse,

I found a great pair of dark denim in a rinse that I love, but I'm worried that if I wash it wrong I'll loose that color. What's the best way to maintain that perfect rinse?

Thanks,
Robin

Dear Robin,

The first thing you'll want to remember is to always wash your denim in cold water. This will keep the color constant best, as well as maintaining the shape and integrity of the jean. If you'd like a little shrinkage, the dryer at medium heat for twenty minutes is the non-damaging way to do it.

Further, you'll want to turn the jeans inside out while in the wash, especially if you use powdered detergent. Turning the jeans inside out keeps the powder from making unwanted whisker effects on the fabric.

If you're really intent on keeping your color, opt for a specified cold-water laundering detergent, and fold your jeans. Wire coat hangers can create an unwanted crease and clip hangers can prematurely distress the cuffs or waist of the denim.

Hope this helps,
Elyse

Staff Pick: Frill Thrills

Sun Valley Minx Larkin favors the more feminine facets of fashion, which explains her fondness for her pick of this silken top from Fifteen Twenty. Fifteen Twenty's Smocked Flower Top is the perfect study of grace with delicate gathering, suggestive of floral patterns, to span from shoulder to bust. Draping through out is reined in with well placed gathering at the waist.

Larkin loves this particular top for its go-anywhere capabilities, and likes it worn best with a slimmer base of skinny jeans or a pencil skirt.

Banishing Bulk

The September issue of Vogue saw celebs dishing on what to wear when it comes to basics with Glamour stylists giving pro tips on everything from leggings to office appropriate boho attire.

One tip we feel we can't live without this fall is that of pulling off the baggy look without losing shape (keeping one element of your ensemble on the slimmer side).

The ideal look is shown using bag cropped boyfriend jeans, a Juicy Couture fitted blazer, and a Splendid tank to go underneath.

Still worried about getting lost under baggy layers? Shop Cashmere at UrbanMinx to stay warm without the bulk.

Ask Elyse: Cocktail with Class

Dear Elyse,

I plan on attending a holiday party at my office this year, but I'm not quite sure how to dress for the semi-formal event while still looking professional. Any ideas?

-Charlotte

Dear Charlotte,

I'm glad you asked. A lot of women make the mistake of overdoing it (in either direction) when it comes to office functions. Of course you'll want to save the sex appeal for a less professional setting, but dressing like you would on a normal work day isn't any fun either.

I suggest you draw the line right down the middle - aim for a cute cocktail dress with a moderate cut and an embellished cardigan as covering. The look is feminine and approachable while still maintaining a professional air. Keep your shoes classy, with perhaps a patent finish for that something extra.

Hope this helps,
Elyse

Recessionista Rules

Silhouettes aren’t the only slim thing in the fashion arena this season – budgets have become stiflingly slender, and fashion fans worldwide are feeling the pinch. And while we're all doing our best to bear it, some things just shouldn't be done without.

It's official - sensible is the new black. Feel free to skim over that flimsy overpriced frock or the patent pumps with the sky high heels. What every fashionista needs now is an investment.

My recommendation is to look for stylish staples to sustain your wardrobe well past this season. Think along the lines of a pair of well-made boots or a cute coat with solid coverage. Quality and versatility are a good way to get a lot of looks out of these two items alone, saving you money later on even if you splurge a little on them now.

Shop recession friendly boots and outerwear at UrbanMinx for a look that will last.

Luxe in Lace

UrbanMinx loves the latest lace trend to hit the runways - it's romance with just a hint of that rock and roll edge.

The lace trend can range from plane-set prints to full on frills, delicate to demanding. What level of lace suits you?

Find your favorite lacey look in our new Lady in Lace department, and don't forgot to check back often for additions to this growing autumn trend.