Top Ten Shopping Tips (To Avoid Shopping Burnout)

Being a personal stylist and shopper, yes, I love to shop, but not all women are on board.  Clothes shopping can bring feelings of:

Anxiety... "I have no idea where to shop or even how to shop!"   

Insecurity... "My (fill in body part) is/are too (fill in big, small, wide, narrow)!"

Discouragement...  "I can never find anything I'm looking for!"   

Is this you?  Well, you can't avoid shopping for the rest of your life!  Here are My Top Ten Shopping Tips that will improve your shopping experience:

1.  Have a goal but make it simple
If you need clothes for an outing, then prepare your list.  For example, if you need an outfit for a Girls' Night Out, you may desire a trendy look.  Your list may consist of:  designer jeans, trendy top and shoes.  Don't get fixated on trying to find a certain color or an item you saw on this one gal who was at that one party from 3 months ago.  You will go crazy and never find what you think you want.  Just browse for something that catches your eye.

2.  Research stores online first
Get inspired!  See what new items are available at your favorite store. Or check out new places.  If you find a "got to have it" item, be sure to document it so  store sales associate can direct you right to it.  If you don't like anything online, skip that store (you just saved yourself a trip). 

3.  Google coupons
Who doesn't like to save money?  When I know where I'm shopping,  I collect my mailed coupons and google "discount coupon + (name of the store)".  I saved a client over $100 because I had a 40% off coupon at Express!  Woo hoo!

4.  Have a budget
Avoid buyer's remorse.  Make your tentative list and the amount you want to spend and stick with it.  If you go under, then hooray!  You can save that money for next time or splurge on something you didn't expect you could get.

5.  Wear comfortable clothes and shoes
You don't want to be hot or develop blisters on your feet.  Dress in simple layers and wear shoes that you know you can wear for hours without complaining.  Dress appropriately!

6.  Look your best
Yes, you want to be comfortable but you still need to look nice.  Do your hair, makeup and add some jewelry.  And don't forget to wear your best bra with good support (see November's "Are You Wearing the Right Bra?" post).  It will make a huge difference in the dressing room which may have bad lighting and distorted mirrors.  You shouldn't have to visualize what the outfit could be, you want to see the final result right in front of you.

7.  Go shopping at off peak hours
The best time to go shopping is during the week first thing in the morning.  You don't have to deal with other shoppers, you will get full attention from the sales associate (or most likely the manager) and you will have no problem getting a dressing room.   

8.  Bring any needed article of clothing
So let's say you want to buy a pair of boots to go with some jeans that you already own, then bring those jeans.  Also think about those trendy items that you have not been able to wear because it goes with nothing in your closet.  This will avoid second-guessing or being disappointed at home after buying something that doesn't work.

9.  Bring water and a snack
If shopping isn't your thing, then don't waste time by eating at a restaurant.  However, you also don't want to turn into a crabby patty... bring a bottle of water and a granola bar to avoid hunger pains and save time. 

10.  Don't go while PMSing!!
I tend to forget about this one.  I guarantee nothing will look good, nothing will fit right and you will hate yourself.  DON'T GO SHOPPING WHEN YOU HAVE PMS!

These tips are sure to make your shopping experience more pleasant.  Happy Shopping, my gatinhas!  Have some other shopping tips?  Add them on to the comments below this post.  www.ChaChaFlare.com

xoxo,

Deb

8 Festive and Cozy Looks at Maurices

I love the combination of style and comfort!  The latest, fabulous trend is the sweatshirt with sequins, rhinestones or any other bling.  And the best place to get the look of shine with comfort this holiday season is at maurices (not a typo, the official brand is with a lowercase "m").  The variety of looks is endless!  maurices you ask??  Yes, maurices.  I am so surprised with all the misconceptions I have encountered about this awesome clothing store.  Some of the myths are:

1)  It's a store for the young
There are some stores mostly for teens or women in their 20's, but maurices is NOT one of them.  Trendy, yes.  They are on top of the trends but also have lots of basics.  And for those "young" stores, don't be intimidated by them.  You probably won't like everything in there, but you are sure to find some hidden treasures.  Get out of your comfort zone and check it out.  You CAN be a mom in your 30's, 40's and beyond and STILL have some style!  

2)  It's a store for the old 
How do we go from one side of the spectrum to the other?  Let's just say it's a store for women who like to look fashionable; it's for everyone.

3)  It's a plus size only store
Yes, they have plus sizes but also regular sizes; now that's a bonus for us all!

maurices is a place for women.  They carry name brand jeans, (like Silver, Vigoss, Hydaulic and maurices' own line of denim) festive tops, ruched tanks, statement jewelry, jackets, shoes and other accessories.

My photographer, Carol, and I took a trip to our local maurices and created...

Look 1:  Sequin sweatshirt with jeans.  Be sure to add a necklace (elf hat is optional).

Sweatshirt with Sequins / Ellie Straight Fit Jeans / Necklace (my own)

Look 2:  Super soft, light sweatshirt with sequins with flattering leggings!  If you are really looking for comfort, then this is the cute and comfy outfit for you.

Sequin Shoulder Sweatshirt / Smart Pocket Leggings

Look 3:  Sequin sweatshirt with the same leggings and ankle boots.  And take notice of those detailed clutches in the background.  Any of them will flare up your look.

Sequin Sleeve Sweatshirt / Smart Pocket Leggings / Ankle Boots (my own)

Look 4:  Ok, I couldn't resist this top.  It doesn't really qualify as a comfy look but it's so awesome!  I ended up buying it and will be packing it for my trip to Brazil.  It also looks great layered with a moto jacket or fitted blazer.

Sequin Bead Tank / Ellie Straight Fit Jeans / Moto Jacket

Look 5:  A plain, black layering tee WITH the sparkly, infinity scarf.  I wanted to show you how a basic, comfy long-sleeve can work as long as you add accessories.  Add some bangles and drop earrings for more interest.

Layering Tee Only (boring!)

Layering Tee with Sparkly Infinity Scarf

Look 6:  Ruched top with jeans and a statement necklace.  The top and jeans (with fading) creates a slimming look. 

3/4 Sleeve Ruched Top / maurices Jeans / statement necklace

Look 7:  Blue, sequin sweater with jeans.  The blue compliments Carol's copper-colored hair perfectly- so pretty!

Blue Sequin Sweater / maurices Jeans / Ankle Boots

Look 8:  Cranberry and Black.  I love how the sparkly scarf creates the composition of the colors.  The pants are so awesome and flattering- they are like leggings but flared instead of tapered. 

Now that I have established the awesomeness of maurices, when will you be visiting?  I only showed you 8 looks, but I could have probably shown you 100!  

Can't wait to see what all you ChaChas will be wearing for the holidays!  Post pictures on my ChaCha Flare Facebook Page or email me here!

* Visit maurices online at http://www.maurices.com

* Photos by Carol O'Rourke 

xo,

Deb 

How To Pack A Hat

For all you vacationers out there...  this is a useful tip on how to pack a sunhat, fedora, or other hats that you don't want smooshed in your suitcase.  Check it out below and don't forget to subscribe to my channel so you don't miss any future postings!

**Filmed by my husband, John.  See if you notice his big, fat thumb getting in the way of some shots.  



xo,

Deb

ChaCha Flare Got Quoted!

Hey ChaChas!  

I'm famous!!  Haha!  Not really, but I was quoted on Launch Grow Joy, a mom entrepreneur website.  Pretty cool, eh?

Check out how I contributed with a work-life balance tip for mom entrepreneurs via Launch Grow Joy!  Lots of great information out there for all of us mom entrepreneurs/multi-taskers.

xo,

Deb

Find Your Inner Style

GUESS jacket / leopard top Forever 21 / Michael Kors bag

You aren't born with style.  Style is evolved through inspiration, mood, creativity and time.  Some get it at the young age of 8, while others still don't know what they're doing at 42.  You may not have a sense of fashion as early as some women, but it's there. Or maybe you wore all the latest trends in high school and then lost it somewhere between climbing the professional ladder and creating some offspring.   Whatever the case, I believe that every woman has style- you just have to find it (or find it again).   

This ChaCha took a while to find her inner style.  Yes, me.  A fashion blogger and personal stylist/shopper who years ago had no sense of style!  I wasn't always as stylish as my clients see me now.  At one point, between the years of 1996 and 2001, I had an unpolished look.  I felt like I couldn't put it all together.  My "go to" outfit was a shapeless T-shirt, khakis and brown sketcher shoes (for boys).   I could have easily passed for a Target employee (good thing my husband saw my inner beauty).  When I would go out, I felt under-dressed.  

The picture below is me with my husband on our honeymoon BEFORE I found my inner style.  I can find at least 5 things wrong with my look.  1) Pastel top with khaki colored shorts...no contrast.  2)  The cut of my shirt- it's hitting me at my hips (not good for a pear shape).  That combined with the color makes me look heavier then I actually was.  3)  Scoop neck.  I would have looked better in a V-neck.  Scoop necks are better for the well-endowed.  4)  No jewelry.  If I had some earrings and bracelets on, I would have maybe made it all look better.  5)  Those shoes are awful, but that was the style (I think) in 1998.  My husband, John, looks handsome though, don't you think? :)

Me and my husband before I found my inner style- YIKES!

A new client recently said to me, "I look at some women and think how she's got it all together; she's so stylish. It makes me realize I'm not as fashionable as I thought I was."  That is exactly how I used to think about myself until I had a turning point.  

As I have mentioned about myself before, I am a Brazilian (see About Me).  In my teens/twenties I had gone 12 years with no visits to Brazil (the critical years of when a lot of women acquire their sense of style).  I think I needed more Brazil exposure because like I said, I was a frumpy, twenty-something with no fashion-sense.  So at 27, I went back and brought my husband with me.  Brazil is a sexy country full of beauty and style not only with the people but also the awestruck beaches, nature, music and art.  I was finally inspired!  I started adding more jewelry to my wardrobe.  I realized that just because I look good in red, doesn't mean I should settle on a red shirt with no texture or shape.  Heels, purses and fashion risks took over me.  A ChaCha was born!

I'm not saying you have to take a trip to Brazil to get your style on, but you can follow some simple guidelines.  I'm finding that a lot of women (especially if they are super busy with their careers or children) aren't happy with their wardrobe and/or styling abilities, but it's not too late.  

It's Time To Find YOUR Inner Style!

1)  Know your body type and know what looks good on you.  

If you have broad shoulders, you should not be wearing puffy sleeves that will only make you look broader.  On the flip side, if you have wide hips, you CAN wear puffy sleeves to balance everything out.  And for the love of God, if you have short legs, DO NOT wear capris...you will make your legs look even shorter.  Try to think about your problematic areas and then figure out what conceals it the best.  Also look at your assets and accentuate it!  If you haven't figured out what works and doesn't work for you, you may need personal styling help.  Go to 9 Signs You Need a Stylist or let me know your specific problem and I can write about it on the blog (comment below this post).

2)  Accessories!  

You can make a plain, tan shirt look spectacular with a statement necklace or a colorful scarf.  Heck, you can make a sweatshirt look awesome if you jazz it up with earrings, cute boots and fancy jeans!  It's all about the details... jewelry, belts, scarves, shoes, even purses!

3)  Layering

A collared shirt with a sweater.  A plain black, tank with a waterfall cardigan.  A blazer with a dress.  Always think about layering an outfit- it will give you that "put together look" you envy. 

4)  Get inspired

Do you like a jacket that your girlfriend wore the other day?  Ask her where she bought it and get it for yourself.  It's not copying, it's a super compliment to your stylish friend.  Try visiting a new clothing store or a local boutique.  You will be surprised how a different store interprets fashion.  Who is your favorite celebrity?  Do you like her style?  If so, let her guide you to a similar (but not the same) look.  Really look at the details of that "stylish woman" you aspire to be! 

These simple steps can lead you into the right styling direction.  If a girl like me can be fashionable then so CAN YOU!

I will be traveling to Brazil this holiday season and plan to inspire you more!  Be sure to sign up for my latest blog posts (upper right part of my blog) so you don't miss anything!

Beijos (kisses),

Deb

Jazz Up Your LBD (Little Black Dress)

Hello ChaChas!

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving.  With more holidays and celebrations approaching, it's time to think about formal wear.  You can never go wrong with the LBD.  It's a classic and timeless look that is perfect for holiday parties, weddings and other special occasions.  When wearing your LBD, don't forget the details to look your best.

Statement Necklace

Necklace by Stella & Dot / Nancy Dziewinski

Bold Shoes

Try red pumps or other bold colors

Or add some SPARKLE!

Earrings That Pop

Earrings by Stella & Dot / Nancy Dziewinski

Wear Your Necklace Backwards

Mix It Up With A Little BLUE Dress

Cynthia Rowley / Marshalls only $25!

Photos by Carol O'Rourke

I'm going to a wedding this weekend- guess what look I'm choosing??  

Stuck on what to wear for your next holiday party?  Let ChaCha help you!  Go to my Styling Services Page.

Beijos,

Deb

Fashion Tip Friday: Define Your Waist With A Belt!

Here's a quick Fashion Tip Friday...

Make an outfit go from "ok" to FABULOUS with just a belt!  My client, friend, and graphic designer for my awesome logo, Missy, shows us a perfect example of how the magical powers of a belt can give us a waistline and/or pull an outfit together.

Before

After

Before

After

Isn't it amazing??  I think I get more excited than my clients when I see this happen.  So ChaChas... pull out those belts and use them!  Need help figuring it out on your own?  Visit my Styling Services Page.

Happy Friday,

Deb

Are You Wearing The Right Bra?

One day, while shopping with a friend and critiquing her in the dressing room, I noticed that every top looked like crap on her.  I couldn't understand... they were cute shirts and sweaters that worked with her body type and then I saw it.  Her average-sized boobs were out of whack.  Spread apart, flat, pancake boobs.... "What the hell is going on with your boobs?", I gasped.  "Shirt.  Off.  Now!!"  And there it was.  A raggedy, old bra that lost all elasticity, support and shape.  She probably wore this bra in college (she's 40 by the way).  I couldn't believe what I was looking at.  We stopped the hunt for clothes and made the priority to find a good bra.  The right bra!

Ladies, don't underestimate the importance of a good bra!  I'm telling you, it all starts with our underwear (I'll cover panties another time). You could really ruin your outfit if your girls aren't supported the right way.  Start with what is underneath before working on looking your best with clothes.

I'm not a bra expert, but I do know from experience and observation on how to make your tatas look their best (under clothes that is).  

What to Look for in a Bra: 

1.  Size
Get measured, people.  If your bra is too tight not only will you be uncomfortable, but you will get undesirable back-fat (no matter what you weigh) bulging from the straps or band.  It also shouldn't ride high in the back... how can it feel right to have your bra dig into your shoulder blades?  On the flip side, if your bra is too big, you lose support and the cups poke out.  And no cheating... bras should NOT be worn on the tightest hook; they need to be worn comfortably on the first hook.   Places like Nordstrom, Victoria's Secret and Von Maur are good places to start to get measured.  If you have a special size or special circumstance (like breast surgery), you should find a specialty bra store.  Check out Tina's Closet in Lisle, IL-  they will be great help and can probably answer more questions than I can.  Our breasts are constantly changing from pregnancies, hormones, weight gain/loss and age so it is a good idea to get measured every few years- or even months.

2.  Support
No matter what size, we need to get those boobs up.  Some of us more than others.  Consider underwire, push-up or a really good wireless bra.  Don't let those boobs sag! 

3.  Padding or No Padding?
This is a preference.  However, if you need a little help with enhancement then I would highly encourage some padding.  Just enough may help to fill in a blouse a little nicer.  Padding will also help with hiding those crazy nipples you may have developed from nursing, or maybe some of you are naturally born with those T.H.O's!  Anyhoo, so they are not sticking out for the world to see, get a padded bra.

4.  Style
So many to choose from!  I prefer to be practical- I want the bra to look nice and comfortable.  No more sexy lace bras for me, but hey, if you like it then go for it!  Just make sure those embellishments aren't noticed through lightweight fabric shirts.  My favorite bra is Victoria's Secret T-Shirt Bra.  It is so soft and comfortable and gives me perfect support.  If they carry your size, get this bra! 

And lastly, some bra tips...

5.  Give Your Bra a Break
I was told years ago that you should never wear the same bra two days in a row.  Just like jeans, bras stretch out a little after they've been worn for a day.  So it's a good idea to give your bra a day or two to get back into it's shape or it could lose it's elasticity faster.

6.  Sports Bras Are For Sports- ONLY!
No need to elaborate.  Do I?

Now it's time to analyze your bra collection.  Are your bras making your girls look their best?  Or are they creating a disaster?  Start with the right bra, then move on with the right clothes for your body type.  You will then be fabulous!

xoxo,

Deb

10 Looks, One Button-Down Shirt

Hi Cha Chas!

I am super excited about my latest YouTube... 10 Looks, One Button-Down Shirt!  It is exactly what it states.  I took one, white button-down shirt from Target, and created 10 cute looks!

This is how I do it...

Thanks for watching and please share :)

Beijos,

Deb

How To Wear Stripes

A ChaCha follower recently asked me this question:

Hi Deb,

Help!  I have a bit of a belly.  Can I still wear stripes?  Will it make me look bigger?

Sincerely,
M

Dear "M",

You are correct to have some concerns but yes, you CAN wear stripes!  Of course you have to follow some guidelines...

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

How To Wear Stripes When You Need To Conceal Your Tummy

1)  Make sure the stripes are different widths.  Mixing skinny, wide and anything in between will help you avoid a wide look.  

2)  If stripes are the same width, then they have to contain many colors or dark colors.  However, you must pay attention to where those stripes are placed!  The darkest stripe should always be right across your tummy or area of concern.  Check out this perfect example.  Same client, same brand dresses, just different styles with stripes.

Before

Oh no...the above dress is giving her a spare tire!  The color placement is wrong because the darkest color is NOT on her problem area (where it should be).  Allowing the orange stripe to lay along her tummy makes it bulge out.  The black stripe above her breasts is out of place too- it's flattening her nice figure.  Instead, it should be right at the empire waist to emphasize the nice boobs she has.

After

Much better!  Look how thinner she looks!!  The variety of colors AND stripe sizes work perfectly together.  And check out the thick, dark blue stripe...right at her tummy where it belongs!

3)  Keep the stripes to a minimum by layering it with a jacket or blazer.

4)  Look for stripes that move diagonally or vertically.  That will give you a slimming effect.  Just be sure that your verticals don't resemble one of a referee-  yikes!

If you follow these rules, you are sure to rock stripes no matter your body type!

Have a fashion question or concern?  Let us all know... your question could be showcased next!

ChaCha you later,

Deb

How To Give Your Summer Dress A Fall Look

It's Fashion Tip Friday!  

Don't put away all your summer clothes!  A lot of your clothes like camis, tanks and short sleeved tops can be used to layer.  But what about your summer dresses?

Start with any summer dress.  Mine is pretty flirty and summery, but watch how I warm it up...

Before

Mystree Summer Dress

Look how I created a cute, fall look with a denim jacket, skinny jeans, scarf and boots...and of course some oversized sunglasses. 

After

Fall Look With A Summer Dress
Hudson Denim Jacket/Pashmina Scarf/Jolt Skinny Jeans/Dolce Vita Boots

Voila!  A summer dress is now ready for fall!  Inspired??  Get in your closet and see what YOU can come up with!  Use accessories, leggings, tights and anything that keeps you warm.  Send pictures to my ChaCha Flare Facebook Page or email me.

Happy Friday,

Deb

5 EXCUSES FOR NOT CLEANING OUT YOUR CLOSET (properly)

Last month I shared with all you gatinhas, 10 Signs You Need a Wardrobe Overhaul.  Well, it's now November and fall is in full blast with the holidays creeping upon us.  I have to ask...how does your closet look?  Can you choose any item randomly that makes you look AND feel good?  Or are there still items that get pushed to the side?  This is a perfect time to get a ChaCha Closet Overhaul- especially if you are a victim of one of these excuses...

5 EXCUSES FOR NOT CLEANING OUT YOUR CLOSET (properly):

What to keep?  What to purge?

1)  Someday It Will Fit Me Again

Why hold on to clothes that don't fit anymore?  It's NOT a motivation to lose weight, it's wasting space in your closet and probably making you feel bad that you are no longer that size.  Embrace what you have!  Keep what fits and looks great on you.  I know it's hard to give up those cute, expensive Miss Me jeans, but what good are they if it just sits in your closet?  If you do lose weight, it's a great opportunity to celebrate by purchasing new, cute clothes.  That's the real motivation.

2)  I Paid A Lot For That 

So you made a mistake and paid a fortune for something that ended up not working.  Oh well, move on and learn from it but don't keep it!  There are exceptions and I am very willing to give clothes another chance.  It's possible you may not know how to wear this precious item.  Maybe you need to layer it, add a belt or scarf?  Again, if it is a hopeless cause then purge purge purge!  Confused?  Just contact me.

3)  It's My Only Leather Jacket, Suit or <Fill In The Blank>

If it doesn't make you feel your best then it isn't meant to be.  It may be a classic piece, but it needs to look right on you.  A dated, oversized suit that gives you no shape should be chucked!  

4)  It Will Be Stylish Again

Hmmm, not likely.  Bell-bottoms came back but did you actually see people wear their bell-bottoms from the 70's?  No, trendy items are exactly what they are called.  Enjoy the trends at the right time but then let it go when you stop wearing them.  Sometimes they can last for seasons; you may be able to pull off the look longer especially if it flatters your body.  BUT... if you like to hold on to things, it's best if you stay with the classics or at the least don't spend a fortune on the trends.

5)  The Salesperson Said It Looked Cute On Me

Nothing against salespeople- they can be very helpful.  However, sometimes they are blinded by their own products or their possible commission.  Too many times I have seen people thinking they look good in something that does not work for their body type.  For instance, if you have broad shoulders, you should not wear puffy sleeves.  Or, if you have large breasts, you should not wear baggy tops.  Remember, what looks good on a manikin does not necessarily look good on you.

Stop making these excuses and give your closet a facelift.  You will feel fabulous after getting rid of the junk while keeping the outfits that make you feel awesome!  Let ChaCha Flare help.  My clients agree (check out ChaCha Testimonials) that I have not only made their closets lighter, but I was able to come up with outfits they never thought to put together themselves.

Get started today and I will weed out your closet plus give you styling ideas and recommendations of what to add to your wardrobe. 

ChaCha you later,

Deb

Gotta Get...For Less!

Hello ChaChas!  

Out with the flu for over a week... did you miss me?  While stuck in bed with the chills, I was left with just watching television and reading fashion magazines.  Of course all I wanted to do was buy everything!  So I started to make a wish list.  Will I get this stuff for myself?  Doubtful.  Well, maybe one item.  But it will definitely be for less than the inspiration.  Check out how you can get the stylish magazine look for less money. 

Some websites I want to plug for getting more cute stuff for less...

www.zulily.com

www.6pm.com

www.sunglasseswarehouse.com

Have a high-end wish item?  Let us all know... I can help!

xo,

Deb

IT'S NOT YOU, IT'S THE JEANS: How to Find the Perfect Jeans

The dreaded jeans shopping experience!  Nothing sucks more than grabbing 20 pairs and walking away with nothing.  There is so much to consider... concealing the big booty, avoiding the WGB (white girl butt), extending the legs, slimming the hips, the list goes on and on.   Don't fret!  The right pair of jeans are out there, I promise.  

The other day, I went on a jeans mission with two clients, Karin and Carol.  Both are pear shaped, so they can wear either skinny jeans or boot cut.  Karin is very petite so she always struggles with the right length, whereas Carol has a hard time balancing her tiny frame with her wider hips and thin legs.  I didn't think having two clients at the same time would work, but because they both needed jeans (and thanks to the lovely salespeople at Buckle) it only took us an hour!

I'm going to use Karin and Carol in some of my examples on:

8 Things to Look for When Shopping for Jeans

1.  Stitching and Fading

When there is a good contrast of stitching and the jean material, it can slim down the butt and inner thighs.  Fading does the same thing, but too much in the wrong places will just look like you rolled around in paint. 

Good stitching along inner thigh/fading

2.  Pocket Embellishment 

Bling, pocket flaps and designs are those wonderful things that can make your butt pop in the right places so you don't have a flat, wide butt or WGB. 

3.  Size of Pockets

Too small, your butt will look big.  Too big, your butt will look big.  Basically, the pockets have to be proportionate to your backside.  There's a science to this, people. 

Small pockets so the mid rise does not work

4.  Spacing of Pockets

If you have too much space between the pockets, you will widen yourself. 

Too much spacing between pockets

Perfect spacing!

5.  Waistline

Low rise works for a lot of people, especially if you have a small torso. Mid rise is great for concealing the flabby tummy and giving you more leg length.  High rise is for those that like their butts to look TWICE AS LONG.  Huh??  Why would you want an ass that starts in the middle of your back?  The only time I have seen this work is if you are a super skinny teenager who is wearing them as daisy dukes- and that's really stretching it.  So please ladies, don't let those salespeople convince you that they are the new thing and look great on you- they don't.

6.  The Right Size 

If they are too tight, your rolls will be popping out everywhere (muffin top) and there will be possible camel toe.  It's NOT sexy, it's a mess!  Jeans need to be snug, but not cut off your circulation.  If they are too baggy, everything droops and you will look bigger than you really are.  You should be able to fit 1 to 2 fingers along the waistline. Remember, jeans stretch!

Karin went shopping in these hideous things...

Before

Bigger thighs in the front

Droopy flat butt

After

Hello skinny!

Perked up booty

7.  Length

Better to go long than short- you can always get them hemmed.  Stores like Buckle and Nordstrom will hem them for free.  Do NOT settle for short jeans!  Your legs will look shorter than they are and frankly, you will look ridiculous.  That's including skinny jeans!  For you shorties, wear those heels or wedges to give you even more height!

8.  Know How to Wear Your Jeans the Right Way

Think about what you are going to wear with the jeans.  Either bring some clothes with you or try some things on from the store.  If you are pear shaped you have to create more volume on top when wearing skinny jeans.  The opposite (inverted pear shapes) can wear skinnies with almost anything and pair up with flats so they can actually bulk up their thighs... oh you poor thing!  So remember, different looks for different body types.  I put a whole new look together for Carol who used to think that she could wear fitted tops with skinny jeans.

Before

NO!  Small top brings attention to the waist.

After

The scarf and cardigan balance the skinny jeans perfectly!

It's amazing how the right jeans can transform any body- Karin and Carol can testify!  Now it's your turn...  

Grab a friend and join me to find the perfect jeans!  From now until the end of November 2014, ChaCha Flare is offering a special jeans personal shopping rate.  Only $50 an hour for you and a friend (that's $25 a piece).  

Set up your appointment by contacting me here ---> Deb Storrs or complete a Style Consultation Form.  Find out for yourselves that it's not you, it's the jeans!

ChaCha you later,

Deb
 

9 SIGNS YOU NEED A STYLIST

You may think that stylists are only for celebrities or the very rich.  Well, think again.  There are many reasons to get help from a stylist...

9 SIGNS YOU NEED A STYLIST

1.  You're not happy with your love-handles, big boobs, short legs, etc. and you don't know how to make it fabulous with clothes.

The right clothes can be a miracle worker for those problematic areas!  If you still haven't figured out how to work your body type, then it's time to seek help with... hmmmm, I don't know??  Maybe this chick, Deb, that I know.  She's affordable too ;)

2.  You have several items in your closet that are cute, but you don't know how to wear them.

It's always fun to have something trendy...fur, leather, leopard!  But sometimes it's intimidating to put it all together.  It can also turn into a disaster if you overdo it.

3.  You don't know how to be versatile with your clothes.

Does this sound like you?  Same top, with the same skirt, pumps and never trying to make different outfits.  I have a client that had no idea she could wear her "church top" with jeans.  Wouldn't it be nice to hear, "Is that a new sweater?", when you've actually had it for years!?!

4.  You think dressing up means being uncomfortable.

I've blogged this before (Looking Good Without A Lot of Effort), you can look cute and be comfy at the same time.  Piecing the right items together and accessorizing is key!  

5.  You don't look at your butt when you put on your jeans.

You may look awesome from the front, but the back may be flat and wide. Go ahead and check...I'm guessing your booty can look a lot better!  

6.  Your 8 year old daughter dresses better than you do. 

Why is this?  I see it all the time.  So many moms spend time and effort on their kid than on themselves.  You should see my kids- it's almost embarrassing.  They used to be really put together when they were younger and I could control them.  Now they look like little ragamuffins when they go to school and I DON'T CARE!  They can figure it on their own or maybe someday they'll actually listen to me. 

7.  Layers?   What's that?

Yep, layers are good.  And I'm not talking about layering so you stay warm.  Nothing is cuter than a cropped denim jacket with a maxi dress or creating a layered look to go with skinny jeans.

8.  You feel like your clothes are boring.

A plain, white sweater is a perfect canvas for a beautiful, printed scarf.  You may be lacking the ability to accessorize.  There's that word again!  Getting dressed doesn't just entail putting on a shirt, jeans and shoes.  Time to chacha it up!

9.  You don't think shoes are important.

Cute everywhere and then you get to the hideous shoes-ugh!  My mom is a stunning woman with great style, but she is sometimes a victim to this.  (Sorry, Mãe, I have to use you as an example!)  Now granted, she does have a bad back/neck and can't wear the obnoxious heels I do, but there are alternatives.  Wedges, ankle boots and flats are great options.  They have plenty of support AND can be dressy or casual.  You CAN find that cute pair of shoes that comes with comfort!

So how did you do?  Still think that stylists are only for Jennifer Lawrence and Angelina Jolie?  I would love to help you get out of your fashion rut.  Click here to get started ===>ChaCha Flare Your Look

Beijos,

Deb