Knitwear alterations

I recently had a new piece of knitwear taken it at the waist. I took it to my alterations lady, who overlocked the side seams and re-steamed the garment for $10. I’m impressed with the results. It’s made a huge difference to the fit of the garment, making it less boxy and more streamlined. After the alteration it looks good both as is and belted at the waist.

Knitwear can be successfully altered at the side seams by a competent seamstress. In fact, I’ve never tried this, but you’ll probably be able to narrow the width of knitwear sleeves in the same way. This got me thinking. Are there ways to shorten the sleeve and hem lengths of knitwear? I’ve always thought that this can’t be done, but now I’m not so sure.

Knit biker jackets

The knit biker jacket is a super option for those who like the biker look, but prefer the comfort of a sweater jacket. Stretchy and cozy like knitwear but with lots of spunk and edge.

You’ll find these types of knit biker jackets in woolen knits and cotton knits. They’re definitely more casual and less crisp looking than their woven counterparts but a nice product all the same. Wear them in the same way bring out the rock chick in you.

Esprit Zip Front Knit Motorcycle JacketTwelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent Motorcycle Sweater JacketCrossdye Zipper JacketKnit Biker Jacket

A Full Length Mirror is a Must

Time and time again I work with clients who have no full length mirror. But it’s essential that you have one. You need to judge your outfit in its entirety, seeing the full silhouette and judging whether the bottom half of your look works with the top half. Heaven forbid you’re walking around with pants that are too short because you can’t see all the way to the hem.

Ideally, a mounted or free standing, full-length mirror should be close to your closet. Great places for it to live are inside the closet itself, in the bedroom, or on the bathroom door. If it is in another part of the house, that’s ok too. At least you have the option of viewing your ensemble from head to toe before you venture out.

Consider purchasing a full length mirror immediately if you don’t have one already. They don’t need to be expensive and the smallest of apartments can store one successfully. No more climbing onto baths, sinks, chairs and tables to see the rest of you. It’s an easy problem to solve.

Roundups

Simpler Items

This week's list of top picks list is about basic pieces.

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Assorted Items

Items for Summer, both in and out of air conditioning.

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Casual Summer Vibes

This week's top picks are good for a casual Summer vibe.

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Summery Earth Tones

These items are for those who like to wear casual earth tones in warm and hot weather.

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Hints of Spring

Some tried-and-tested winning items to refresh your style for Spring.

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Dressier Items

An assortment of dressier top picks might be just what the doctor ordered.

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The double-wrap skinny belt

You guessed it. Another bit of 80’s flair that’s made a comeback. The double-wrap skinny belt brings back fond memories of having plastic studded versions in cobalt, red and white 25 years ago. I loved the look back then and I’m all for it again right now.

You can wrap the belt high or low around the waist depending on your preference. I like how it adds an interesting layering and textural dimension to an outfit and it’s certainly helped my old knitwear feel like new. The double wrap belt works well over shirts, knitted tops and dresses too. It is more comfortable than the single wrap skinny belt because it slouches more loosely around the body.

I recently purchased a skinny black studded style from Express, which was inexpensive by the time I had used a discount coupon. It didn’t fit so I first cut five inches off the end of the belt and then did my usual make-it-fit trick. I’m pleased with the outcome. The year is young, but the double-wrap belt is my favourite accessory of 2009.

Streets Ahead Women's Studded Double Wrap Leather Belt Jessica Simpson Double-Wrap Leather Belt

Double-wrap belts are available in a range of price points (from Forever 21 to Bloomingdales). They work quite well on short-waisted women when worn a little lower down on the waist than shown in these pictures.

On the Golden Globes red carpet

Last night’s Golden Globes Award ceremony was a splendidly stylish affair. I was relieved to see that Grecian inspired dresses, overly modern looks and black frocks were less popular than they have been of late. By far, the most popular silhouette of the night was the long strapless gown. It was represented in a variety of colours from sequined midnight blues and metallics, to cobalt, red, nude, blush pink and white silks and satins. Silhouettes were either straight all the way down, A-line, or flared out at the hem (“mermaid style”).

My favourite dresses:

  • Evan Rachel Wood: This black ruffled sequined gown was perfection. The plunging front and back necklines worked on Evan’s super skinny frame, small bust line and flawless porcelain skin. The rosette details were playful yet sophisticated. I loved everything about this dress and it was hands down the most exciting frock of the evening.
  • Eva Longoria Parker: This gown reminded me a little of old Hollywood. I loved Eva’s classic Grace Kelly style bun and diamond encrusted clutch. She looked classic, elegant, regal and stunning.
  • Kate Winslet: I loved her black classic vintage gown with velvet belt and diamante waist brooch. It had an interesting neckline and Kate looked tall, poised and streamlined. Kate’s long fringe kept on falling into her face which spoilt her look a little, but I absolutely adore this actress. Her acceptance speeches were wonderful.
  • Amy Adams: Princess type gowns such as these are dramatic and pretty, but predictable. Amy kicked it up a notch with dazzling emerald gold earrings which looked fabulous against her red hair. The fabric of this dress was especially beautiful and that’s why it made my list.

My vote for worst dressed goes to Jennifer Lopez, followed closely by Renee Zellweger and Angelina Jolie. I didn’t like the pony-tail hairstyles of Debra Messing and Beyonce Knowles. Casual ponytails and formal gowns don’t mesh in my book. Although I really liked their gowns, the messy birds nest up-dos of Drew Barrymore and Eva Mendez were also not my best. Keeping it polished for these occasions is flop proof and seems the best way to go.

If I were invited to an evening of uber glitz and glamour, I’d keep my look classic, vintage and elegant. I’d stay clear of anything that looked overly modern and revealing. My dream would be to wear a vintage Chanel gown with avant-garde pearl accessories. Whose dresses sparked your fancy and what would you wear to an event like the Golden Globes?