Pink Is (not) My Favorite Color

..I...am going to get so much heat for this.
I have spent the past eh, lifetime, hatin' on pink. Even so, anytime I would sport an appropriate variation, I would excuse the hue saying something like "Oh, but this is hot pink..." as if this would clarify my contempt. Surprisingly, I fell for the entitled scent from the House of Lotion, er, Victoria's Secret promising myself I would transfer the potion into a less humiliating container. And no child o' mine gets anything society has deemed indicative of gender in the hot topic hue. No Suri, green (my actual favourite color!) would have to work from Aunt-i Jess. But the thing is, I don't hate hate pink, rather, I think it's the bad choices many make (of which can be reverted by reading the 'Remix' post), in opting for a 'pink shirt' or what's worse, a pink Juicy sweatsuit. Just like you and I, pink wishes to age gracefully, so let's take the first steps together.

The first place pink makes sense is on your face. Here, Rhianna goes bold with the bright shade and a dark, deeply lined eye while Kate Bosworth works my favourite of these two looks. Notice the use of shade creating dramatic contour on the cheeks. Promising 'the prettiest bloom in the bunch!', Benefit's 'PosieTint' ($28) is an excellent long lasting, stay put option that doubles as both a lip and cheek stain.
While Benefit always receives high marks and is well worth it's value, Pretty Cheap Dress has many reasons to opt for a simple tube of lipstick. First, the ease of application is priceless when switching lanes, switching stations and switching purses in one deft move. The desirable dewy effect of 'rouge' no longer exists (it's all pressed powder blush or stain), so the variety of colour options is limitless.

Also, at a fraction of the price ($2) one can afford to have many tints be it 'Fragile Pink' or 'Snow Cone' shown here by NYC. And!, an extra, extra perk those stains and blushes can't offer is a tasty cheek for those unexpected Europeans as some offer a slight fruit flavor. Check out Allure Magazine's backstage looks for more inspiration. I especially like Balmain's natural palette for the season.
This light-weight sweater (The Limited, $20) offers many looks and will prompt just the same. The rich, pleat detailing is perfect with literally anything; feeling a little simple? Layer any colour tank top or toss over dresses intended for warmer months. Let the collar fall off your shoulder for an extra romantic touchPull double duty with another impending seasonal look: floral art nouveau. HURRY this all-silk shift dress (The Limited, $25) is absolutely lovely for Sunday afternoon excursions.
Support the deep v plunge with this superfine eyelet scarf shown in here Cyclamen (?what) Pink or compliment in Blue Glare (Old Navy $12.50).
My Persian wrap in a similar dusty rose colour has been an absolute staple through many seasons. It was a gift via a friends' travels and great to keep in mind as an elegant gift idea.

Diane Kruger tests warmer waters in this flannel combo.

While it's not too late to work the flannel effect, do so in moderation. For spring, I love each of these pieces separately: lighten up the look by leaving the blouse untucked with a super light wash jean and flat, brown penny loafers for a casual, day to day look. This Kensie ombre skirt ($88)would be great with an over-sized, off the shoulder t-shirt similar to this poplin cut found at American Apparel ($38).

Remember, as long as you think in tones, you are safe in the mix creating an optimal colour scheme.

I knew my fight against pink was over upon seeing this pair of pearls found at a local boutique.

I haven't been able to locate a comparable set online (I'm telling you!), so be on the look out for this simple, pretty, pearl popularized by minimalist Angelina Jolie.
This multi-bauble band hits all the rights notes found at Forever 21 ($6).
While I do promote the use of colour, I think my biggest argument against pink was the lack of options. Face it, wear that fuchsia ruffle once and you're pretty much over it. If there is one adjustment to the tone I might recommend which you can wear often: layer different length strands of the pink hue pearl over any monochromatic ensemble. You may be wondering where you can obtain this look; I have a feeling more options will become more readily available and affordable in the coming months, so don't be afraid to mix and blend pearls and metals as you build your pearl collection. Soon, you too may say 'Oh, but this is hot pink!'

P.s--My biggest leap of fuchsia faith! (Silk Gillian vintage)

Drop bows on 'em

If I had to imagine the most delightful thing a guy would want a girl to wear, I bet they would say something like "A big bow. And nothing else." Seriously, I am so nuts over bows right now, I have absolutely no arguments to being agreeable. Repeatedly.
I picked up on bowtential a couple of months ago (yeah, I just did that, shamelessly), but am still not over it considering I think it's only going to get better or at least become more appreciated. I don't know if it was Madge's come back tour or sweet Coco Chanel whispers from the Heavens, but whoever, wherever brought the bow back, I love ya.
It's not very often in fashion one can confidently say: at this juncture, there is no wrong way to sport a bow. I know you don't believe me. I know you are furiously mentaling through the 80's (which, you just blame on adolescence) in every neon frequency, the words 'What was I thinking?' ringing in your ears. I know those infamous movie lines (courtesy every 'always-a-bridesmaid, never a bride'): "The last thing someone wants to wear in public is a big bow on their ass!" Listen to me. Listen to me: the biggest heartbreak in fashion is it's all been done before. What keeps the heart pumping, is reinvention. Or a by-pass. By-pass the ass.
Behold, the starlets that just might convince you it's beautiful:

Bet you couldn't tell that was a bow on her shoulder?! Here, Eva Mendes lets the drapey exaggeration do the talking with appropriate jewelry accents, as Charlize Theron opts for delicate waves. The shoulder feature compliments the drape and is a subtle nod to the au currant detail.


Even the ever demure Cate Blanchett loves the bow! While the overall effect of the lace, beading and bow are quite lovely, a modified version will have the same effect. This attractive bow detail on a heel kicks up an otherwise simple black dress.


A definite 'twist' to the bow, here, Marissa Tomei covers up with a multi-faceted take. The key is to incorporate appropriately so don't limit the look to the obvious. If you have a hard time finding (or sporting) the bow, keep your eyes peeled for a 'twisted' take, be it applied to the structure of the piece or as an accent.
There is no shame in sporting this necklace everyday so don't even argue.
Don't be afraid of these post holiday party ensembles (Dillard's.com), so lovely in any colour. This white, sleeveless Tahari dress ($128) is timeless. Simply timeless as later, you can remove the skinny matching belt with bow detail or cover up with a cardigan.HURRY, this any occasion dress is a steal at Target.com ($18).

This modified jacket, found at Forever 21 accomplishes the bow accent as well as adds a feminine curve through the cut. Start simple with this flowing top with pleat detailing(Dillard's.com, on sale $24), a classic touch paired with any bottom.

This clutch screams 'bringing sexy bag' (!) found at The Home Shopping Network.com for $25.
Most of the pieces I've shown are in black, which you might be thinking goes against the use of colour. A signature trademark look of the status house Chanel is a strictly black and white ensemble. All of the pieces I've shown will speak status volume-and Chanel, thanks to a tidy little bow.

Quickly, I fell hard for this bracelet (I first thought it was a ring). It says 'I was stolen from Cleopatra's tomb, single-handedly (or armed) charged the roaring 20's, and influenced an entire era today's couture only wishes to do.' Agh, amour. Lastly, and don't cha know I've saved the best for last, behold a couple of starlets that will make you feel beautiful:
I found these at DSW ($50!!) and absolutely love them. Pair with skinny jeans or lace trimmed skirts... actually, these are so gorgeous, wear with a big bow. And nothing else.

Holiday Cheer!

First off, Merry Christmas everyone! Isn't it amazing how the air changes when you realize the beauty of this day?

True to form, yesterday I was scrambling to finish my Christmas presents. I had the ingenious idea to make bathrobes for my family--simple enough, no? Nooo, as I had forgot how much I hate working with over sized garments and excessive fabric. One was a plush, colourful terry cloth, which, on one hand was good as my hasty stitch work got lost in the fullness; also, bad because there were a couple times I attached pieces where they didn't belong! At one point, I seriously had the thought to just take the seam ripper and stick it in my eye, as I could feel my blood pressure surge each time I had to thread the needle. As I neared to a 'finish', the aromas of my mothers' infamous spanish rice began to seep under my door, instantly dispelling the Grinch I was becoming. I charged the kitchen to 'test' it, realizing joy had been right outside my door all along. And really, it's the simple things such as that, that make me appreciate Christmas.

Today, and everyday, a smile is the best thing you can put on. Don't worry: it comes pretty natural when you're the one to give it. :)

Greet a New Season

Don't worry: I have many posts to add before the start of a new year, a new you, but wanted to get this one out well before the end of the fiscal year. As December nears to a close, there is good news and bad news. The bad news is, a majority of your winter wardrobe will be passe', so I hope you got it all out of your system. The good news is, now you get to mix up the seasons. Even more good news, given the holidays and tough economic times, you will have a broader selection of great deals.

Recall the 'Re-mix' post and the importance and value of your essentials. The best thing about the coming months (thanks in part to global warming) is there really isn't a wrong way to transition seasons. This most definitely is the time to incorporate old and new, experiment with bold cuts, and play with your colour schemes.

Let's face it: it's still going to be cold for a while, so why not lightened up your look with the all-weather, white trench, shown here at Overstock.com for a very reasonable $68.
I particularly like the length of the coat and how the brass accents toughen up the look. Note: If you are afraid of getting dirty in white, look for one with a higher rayon content. (My trench is 52% cotton/48% rayon and sssuper comfortable.) The split content makes it easy to clean, doubles up durability, and maintains the beauty of cotton.

I read an editors' note once that made the most excellent point: "The thing about boots is, wait too long, and all the good styles are gone, so I make sure to shop early." My only reservation with 'shopping early' is often you end up paying way too much and a Pretty Cheap Dress hates paying too much. Another fact about boots is, yes, while many of the amazing new styles are quickly sold out, many more classic (read 'season transcending') styles are held back until now.
Get an even earlier start on a pair of boots such as these AMAZING gems found at DSW that cross soo many lines. (Unable to post the picture.)
I particularly like the dual use of colour which is invaluable to your wardrobe, as well as the rich crocodile print. At $50, these would work well under both jeans and skirts and received 100% recommendation on comfort and fit.
I've had a lot of people tell me they have a variety of problems in finding a good pair of boots. For most, it's the way they fit in the calf area. Before you exclude yourself completely to the beauty of boots, keep in mind again the importance of the materials. This is a classic riding boot that will also work very well under jeans or skirts and is made of 100% leather.

Like your own leather, it stretches and breathes to fit your make up, ultimately molding and shaping out to be literally made to fit you--a bargain at $62. Don't be afraid to go for a pair with brass accents or an interesting use of materials, such as the croc print boots.

A sure bet to simplify the many looks of the impending season is layering with a basic cardigan. Much like boots, pass a good one up and you'll be waiting through a few seasons. I really like this one which comes in 'Chic Cream' (it's even in the name!) and for the patch pockets.

Another thing about cardigans is they are very reasonably priced, and therefore one can never have too many. As a layer, it's not necessary to wash often. Extend the lifetime by using the gentle wash option when laundering and take an extra moment to lay flat to dry. Also, look for romantic details such as this one shown with black lace, perfect to shield the chill in those sweet early spring dresses!
A little tip: keep your eyes peeled for the sales racks. Fortunately, cardigans come in a million styles and colors but missing out on a blow out sale to later pay in excess irks a Pretty Cheap Dress.

Hopefully, by this point you are feeling more confident going into the new season. Scooping up the basics at a bargain is great, but why not splurge on a couple of trendy accessories to pump up your outfit? I am absolutely mad for these super comfy, slouch hats, this one found on Etsy.com.

As a bag lady, it would be an injustice not to suggest an update. This time of year also makes it tolerable to handle a mid-size clutch. I picked up a similar bag this past summer at a bazaar in Berkley, California but am falling head over heel for this one found on a 'vintage handbag' search on Ebay.

My last recommendation is jewelry. Cheap, fun jewelry. The interesting thing about it is, it's not often you really see two of the same thing; therefore, you can't have enough! Start the season mixing different lengths of pearl necklaces. I picked up a cheaper version of this at Forever 21, particularly for the unexpected flower detail.

Stay pretty through these tough economic times by maintaining a discriminating eye. I leave you with these parting words: "What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly; it is dearness only that gives everything its value."--Thomas Paine. "No pain, no gain!" says A Pretty Cheap Dress!

Re-mix, part 1

Having a tough time finding a 'pretty cheap dress'?

In this post, I want to discuss (and potentially eliminate) some of the 'dead ends' you may find yourself at within your wardrobe. Remember, the purpose of a Pretty Cheap Dress is to help you connect across the fashion board through wise choices, in a reasonable, cost effective way. This means thinking outside the box; a true stylist believes rules are meant to be broken! In doing so, we broaden the spectrum.

As I've said, I've spent 26 years researching what the experts say, and they all have a list of basic pieces. I'll be honest: I can't say I own one of those single, basic pieces to start with. Reason for this is pretty simple (as in, attractively simple!): there is more to the piece than simplicity! And really, that's what we mean.

Let's start first within your current wardrobe. Tim Gunn's list of 'Top 10 Essential Pieces' looks like this:

1. Basic black dress; 2. Trench coat; 3. Dress pants; 4. Classic Shirt; 5. Jeans; 6. Any occasion top; 7. Skirt; 8. Day dress; 9. Jacket; 10. Sweatsuit alternative; and for most women who can't stay within the lines, 11. an indulgent trendy item.

It should be noted, the jacket was replaced by the blazer, and the 'any occasion shirt' was replaced by a cashmere sweater. It should also be noted, a blazer was replaced by a cardigan, and personally, cashmere is expensive! Which brings me to my next point: even 'the basics' are trends.

Much in the same way we rationalize the 'right' guy, I want you to rationalize your wardrobe. No, not in the sense one realizes 'it's all wrong', but rather there is a time and a place to make it work. One of my favourite lines that I believe transcends comes from the critically acclaimed sitcom 'The Office': "...Angela isn't really a gambler. Andy isn't really a gamble." According to 'Essential Piece #11' we all most likely own many indulgent pieces and it is here where I want you to rationalize according to your wardrobe. Give it a gamble!

Like I sayd, (oh! I think that last glass of wine is getting to me!): there should be more to the piece than simplicity.

• My 'basic black dress' is for a funeral. It has a high collar, lace neckline; even so, I most often wear it with a pair of black, slouchy boots. I mean, c'mon, if this is a funeral, someone's gotta be the life of the party. The point is details and/or how to accommodate which transcends the occasion.


• Actually, I do have a couple of trench coats- most likely by default. But I suppose the best recommendation I can give is white. A white trench coat is a stand out in any crowd. A light-weight, all weather (at very least, thigh length) trench coat will satisfy hot (as in ouch!) or cold-- whatever your ensemble, a white trench will simplify and clean your look.


• My drivers' license claims I am 5'2", of which I claim 'on a good day'. For many reasons, dress pants are not my fav. For some, it may be a high waist; others, you probably overload a pear shape with layers of elongated tops, which causes 'lump sum'. If slacks are a staple for you, refer to the 'fit' post. There is nothing pretty about too tight or too short--overall, an improper fit. Do not rationalize (nor keep!) pants that do not fit.


• ...I'm just gonna say it: a T-SHIRT IS NOT A CLASSIC SHIRT. As a matter of fact, t-shirts should be reconciled (FIVE is probably reasonable! Another thing we collect!)--reconciled to sleep wear or work-out wear (separate occasions might I add). So what then is a classic shirt? Your classic shirt(s) should be one in which you can build upon. One in which you can layer a comparable (in tone-contrasting or similar) piece that will transcend many occasions. Currently (remember, the 'classic shirt' is a trend) my classic shirt is a white tank top, a square neck line trimmed with lace that allows just enough peep through of which I can build upon.


• The best advice I have discovered in regard to jeans is when you find the perfect pair, be willing to buy two. One pair should be tailored for heels, the other for flats (all form of flats). When it comes to your current wardrobe, much like t-shirts, minimize your basics. This list is about go-to's and you know what you go to, so rid yourself of the rest.


• For those of us that haven't mastered 'every occasion', I'm not sure how to describe the 'every occasion' top. Here is what a stylista and every woman have in common: it's what makes you feel best, no matter the occasion.


• Next on the list is a skirt. In the 'Colour you bad' post, I touched on 'matching' and the limitations it can bring. Much like colour schemes, a basic skirt should work in many ways. Any variation of the 'classic shirt' can take your 'classic skirt' to many levels. Similarly, you should be comfortable sporting a skirt whenever you feel like it. A Pretty Cheap Dress believes if you didn't have the option, you would be bored with minimal selection.


• Although I intended this blog to refer to dress as general apparel, there is nothing I feel better in than a pretty day dress. Unlike jeans (of which I recommend you own two of the same), a dress can have many looks thanks to the aforementioned simple basics. A basic square neck, empire waist? Layer over your classic shirt or even under. Take it day to night with a slight heel or a textured wrap.


• I've owned a variety of blazers (jackets-whatever) across the years, and have learned this much: yes, indeed they do transcend. Given their weight in content, a durable cover up will do just as much for you, even better as an accomplice. Not everyone appreciates this value which can be easily found in unisex; look for rich prints and textured fabrics. Proper care will ensure their value for many years to come and reinforce the value.

• Clearly, Tim Gunn was hallucinating when he included no. 10 'Sweatsuit Alternative'. The problem I have with it is, first, I think the saying 'give them an inch, and they'll take a mile' seems fitting for such a relaxed look and those that struggle with style. Don't get me wrong: I've not once suggested to sacrifice comfort. But c'mon a 'sweatsuit'? If a simple don't do it isn't enough for you, consider this image you are portraying to a discriminating eye: adding jewelry--ok, no amount of jewelry--even matching necklace, earrings, and bracelet, will say 'I care.' I don't care how 'juicy' (or any other profitable brand) the suit is, it does not cause others to say 'Wow, that female looks tasty. Or athletic,' but rather "TACKY," which I might exclaim if I see you!

The point of my list of 10 essentials is to get you to look at pieces (old and new) in the indulgent ray of light you first purchased them, as well as optional here and now. Wait, wait, wait: it's not that easy (noo t- shirts, noo sweatsuits) and it's not that hard. As you are editing your wardrobe essentials, I want you to consider two things:

1. Have a specific occasion in mind complete with exactly what is necessary to accomplish the look. Do not create a look in your mind you a) don't already own an essential piece to build upon, or b) *will not wear.

2. With this occasion in mind, the piece should play a major role for the event. Furthermore, you should be imagining yourself at your utmost chic.

You might be asking..a lot of questions but recall the title of this post: 'Re-mix'. "Do not create a look you don't already have an essential piece for," because your current wardrobe has been your essentials thus far.

With this in mind, a look you 'will not wear' should not even come to mind. *The statement 'will not wear' is used to help you specify realistic future purchases to build your wardrobe, rather than position against progressive style. (i.e 'I won't wear that' as if it's not your style. Remember, you don't have any!)*

Now that you have your edited garment, ask yourself "Does this piece play a major role that makes me feel my best?"

From this point forward, you can begin to continue to build your wardrobe as you now know your essentials. When scouting new pieces, consider details to build upon, but most importantly, like most gambles, play to win!

Colour you baddd

As in Michael J style. So baddd, it's good.
Today's lesson is about colour. As stated in the 'cut/fit' post, a well thought colour palette can take your look to the next level and is the second necessity to good style. Notice I say 'good'; remember the first rule of cuts, with one edit: 'Some colours will work for you, some will not, and if you are brave enough to work for it...' you had better be a master of the skill. That's another reason I found myself working in styling: not everyone has it--but with a little training, you can learn the right colour combos for your looks.

First, let's talk about how we describe our clothes: "I have this kinda-pink shirt, and it has this neck that goes like this, and it's long sleeve, and the material is just regular." We could sit here and break down the many ways this very sentence makes no one feel pretty, but alas, this post is about colour! Consider this diagram:

What do you notice about this wheel?

Hang on to that answer for a second.

Next, I'd like you to consider how we choose our colours. If you wore a 'blue shirt' or a 'red shirt' or any other primary variation, you probably couldn't read this blog (as you would be in kindergarten) or (again) be bored with your minimal selection!

Consider this tone wheel and therefore glossary of terms:

Hue- The pure color (for ex. RED)

Tone- Hue + small amount of gray or opposite color (will mute or tone down the color)

Tint- Hue + White (will lighten the color)

Compliment Tint- Tint + small amount of gray or opposite color (will mute or tone down the color)

Shade- Hue + Black (will darken the color)

Back to the 'kinda-pink shirt': consider the definitions of colours and how we describe everything else in this world. Sight unseen, you might believe the shirt is a shade of pink. But according to the wheel, it could be fuchsia or plum. Consider the yellow hue. The wheel progresses to lemon, a tint, and finally to mustard, a tone or shade. When we describe anything other than clothing, we often refer to all-encompassing, common words: lemon. salmon. midnight blue.

*Rather than a 'kinda-pink shirt', I want you to use your words. Are you looking for a 'red' shirt? Or will a red-violet or even red-orange shirt be more fitting for your occasion? This is the first step to a discriminating eye--'having excellent taste or judgement.'

Finally, I would like to introduce (or reinforce) colour combos, i.e. complimentary colours. The first and easiest way to describe this is to refer to the colour tone wheel above. The colours opposite one another are commonly the best combinations. Ever notice how sharp a turquoise necklace looks on a red-orange shirt? Not only is this due to contrast but also as a rule of the colour wheel. Also, the closer in tone you get, the safer the mix. Take it one step further and consider contrast. This season, pair a midnight blue pant with a bright jewel-tone top.

One last thing to keep in mind when playing with your colour combos: First, congratulations on getting this far. If you can recognize and adhere to the colours opposite one another on the wheel, you are well on your way to style (or at least for the purpose of this blog). I am often asked "Does this match?", which in my mind means "Does this colour combination work?" Whatever my answer may be, I have often found what one really means is "Does this and that match?" Literally match. Remember, as long as you think in tones, you are safe in the mix and are creating a colour scheme--which is the most optimal effect to great style. Remember, don't be 'that' girl who 'always wears black'!

First on the agenda...

terminology.

A couple of things to know (for the rest of your life or until a season/designer calls for otherwise):

• Not all cuts have you in mind. Some shapes will work for you, some will not, and if you are brave enough to work for it, that's another lesson we will explore in time. And I like you.
• Camouflaging your most self-conscious features can sometimes actually create more of a problem. Tummy area a little full? Starting w/ a heavy fabric, then a cover wrap, a belt to bind, not to mention whatever bottom you've paired--you've created yourself a lump sum. Cuts. Fits. More on this to come.
• Beyond the laws of cut, there are rules of colour. But another first: don't be afraid of it! One of my favourite stories to tell: I specifically remember (*another sign to consider in the long run of feeling good!), one early fall evening, I wore a vintage, lilac dress that had the most amazing, ruffle-boat neckline. The collar draped for a slight sleeve, so to maximize effect, I wore a simple, short chain, single diamond cluster necklace and light pearl stud earrings. After some mingling and considerate thought, a fellow party-goer said with a surprising air "Do you always wear black?" I thought on this later and considered all the facts. The answer was no (of course) but clearly I was doing something right. The right fit for the right function will work wonders, but owning your look will take you further. Don't be that girl that 'always wears black'!
• Have no fear. Think of pieces this way: if you didn't have the option, you would be bored with minimal selection!
• Whatever 'rules' or 'laws' your mother told you were probably set before the newest grande rule (comparable to my last bullet 'Have no fear'): Oh, wait, that would be: it's time for a change! Not everything applies to you! And because of that you are different. Special. And I like you.

Introduction

So this is my third blog but finally about something I know. Actually, putting that into statement makes me nervous because I am one who will not knowingly steer you wrong. (That's a weird sentence too...)
After 26 years of obtaining seemingly useless information, I found there is actually a term for it and I am not just that girl 'who-obtains-seemingly-useless-information'. I thought my undergrad program in Communications Advertising would grant me insight (mom, read 'job') and it has, but not according to what I know best. That's another thing: when it comes to something you feel, what does it take to justify?
The purpose of this blog is to do just that: justify and connect you the reader to what you may not be able to obtain on your own across the fashion board; to show wise (inexpensive/reasonable) options to make you feel good according to dress.
I should note this is also a chronicle to a new career: total novice stylist. I mean, I've got style, I just didn't know it could be my 'job' and am pursuing it full force.
I don't know that I'll have an answer for you in every case but I can say I will tell you what I know, as I know it.
Maven: a trusted expert in a particular field, who seeks to pass knowledge on to others.
Thank you for reading and I look forward to gaining your appreciation for a 'pretty (cheap!) dress'!