#great style

5 tips to find your perfect bag-most read post

New York City

We all know that have the perfect handbag polishes your outfit and makes your life easy and effortless.It is an effective way to enhance even the simplest outfit and your figure.Here are 5 simple tips to set you on the road to finding your dream bag.

Buying the right bag.

1.How does it look?

Just because  it is the most exquisite think you have ever seen,it does not qualify it to be your handbag.Try it on as you would a dress in front of a full length mirror.Look at it from every angle,making sure it compliments your shape and personality.Remember that you are the star of your show and your bag is your supporting player.

The bag should be in proportion to your height and figure(shape).Here are a few pointers.

If you are petite,look for shorter handles or adjustable straps,you do not want it to hang too low on your body.Make sure it fits everything you need without being too big.If you are tall make sure than handbag does not sit too high on your body and is proportionate for your frame.An overly structured bag can be hard to pull off and pay a lot of attention to your evening bags.If you are curvy,structured bags work best and be more bold in your choices.

Here is a simple chart to show which bags complement your body type.

 

If you are not sure of your body type here is a tool to help you.

The bag should also fit your personality.make sure it expresses who you are.

2.How does it feel?

If you love shoulder bags,make sure the strap is a width that sits comfortably on your shoulder and does not dig in.Walk around a bit and see if the strap slips.Does the bag sit well under your arm.Make sure the metal hardware does not rub in to your body.Ask the store clerk if you can put your stuff in the bag and make sure it is not too heavy.Your handbag should not exceed 8% of your body weight.For example if you weigh a 150lbs you bag when full should not exceed 12lbs.One of the most common causes of back and shoulder pain among women is the weight of their handbag.

3.Will it keep me organized?

Check to make sure your wallet,cell phone and keys are all quickly accessible as those are the 3 things that you use the most.Nothing is more unstylish than a woman digging around in her handbag or emptying the entire contents to find something.When buying a day bag make sure it is secure and prevents items from being lost or stolen.When buying an evening bag make sure it fits all your needs.There is nothing worse that having to carry a cell phone and an evening bag in the same hand.

4.Does it fit your lifestyle?

Think about when and where you will use your bag.If you commute to work by public transportation you will want a sturdy bag that is weather resistant.If you spend a long time in a car you may want a bag that sits up so that the contents can be easily accessed.If you spend a lot of your time with kids you will need a hands free bag.Darker hues,treated leather and nylon bags stand up better to daily wear.

5.How does it compliment my clothing wardrobe?

Make sure the color and style of you bag compliments your wardrobe.You should have tones that match for work and tones that contrast for casual and fun options.If you wardrobe is all neutral get a great tan or brown for day a red for casual and a print for evening.Always remember your bag should not distract from your outfit but enhance it.

 

Your bag wardrobe

Ideally it should be tons of options that complement your clothing but there are 5 main categories that you should have in your closet.

The casual day bag-this is your bag for your days off,this is your fun bag that works well with jeans.Go for a shade that pops and a style that elevates any casual outfit.Messengers,hobos,bucket and drawstring bags work well in this category.

The structured day bag-this is your work bag,it must be versatile and organized.Go for a rich neutral shade like black,brown or tan.make sure it has polish and goes well with dressier clothes.

The tote bag-this is essential for when you are carrying a lot specially your computer.Structure,stitching and hardware elevate this bag.This bag will prevent you from having to carry multiple bags.

The evening bag-this bag is more of a statement but make sure it holds all that you need.Black,silver and gold are great colors.This is one place where you can buy a piece that makes you swoon.

The seasonal trend-this is for the true fashionista,it is fun,fabulous and fashion forward.It is a little bit of a conversation piece and a show stopper.Here are some of Spring’s Top Trends for 2019.

 

 

So have fun finding your perfect purse companion!

♥ Sunil

 

Dress Codes Explained!

New York City

Invitations to Holiday Events start arriving right after Halloween.Many invitations specify a dress code.Here are some of the common dress codes I am seeing this season broken down for you to easily understand.There are 3 types of events you may be invited to each one requires that you dress appropriately.

Formal and Semi Formal

Black Tie

For Men-It is clear you have to wear a tuxedo.Make sure you rent one asap,rentals can get scarce around this season.Also pair it with the right accessories.

For Women-If it is a high-end wedding or a charity gala it requires you to wear a gown. If it is a work related function like an awards dinner you can wear a formal cocktail dress but make sure you accessorize it to the hilt. Your hair and makeup should be elegant and elevated at the same time. If you have any doubts, the best way to figure out what to wear, is to dress according to what you expect the hostess to wear. Do go online and look at the space and pictures of prior events.Social media coverage from last year’s event is the best place to get a lot of visual cues. This will guide you to select the best option.If you do not want to buy a gown you can easily rent one.

 

 

 

Black Tie Optional or Creative Black Tie

For Men-One of the murkier dress codes, men are given the option of either wearing a tuxedo or a dark suit and a tie or bowtie. If you chose to wear a suit make sure it is with a white shirt and step up your accessories specially your shoes.

For Women-The Dress code is a little more open here, you can wear anything from a long dress to a fun cocktail number. If you opt for pants make sure you pair them with a very extravagant top. Think of it like this: You aren’t expected to look as if you’re en route the Oscars, but you should still make an effort to dazzle. Hair, makeup and accessories should be stepped up and try and wear the highest heel you are comfortable with.

 

 

Cocktail

For Men-For guys, this dress code calls for a dark suit preferably with a tie,stripes and plaids are great. This is an opportunity to have some fun with your shirt adding print, color or texture. Dress it up with a fun pocket square.

For Women, short dresses that are party-ready. If you feel like wearing separates go for a pencil skirt or cigarette pant with a lace or beaded top. Stay away from a traditional suit but try a velvet jumpsuit or tuxedo with statement accessories for a more fun look with a little edge. When in doubt, wear a little black dress or a little red dress and dress it up with fantastic jewelry and over the top shoes.. Cocktail attire is meant to be fun.A lace dress is perfect this season.

 

 

Festive

Dress code that tends to pop up on invitations around the holidays, festive attire is similar to cocktail attire, but with a holiday bent, for men that could be a holiday tie or bow tie.You could also do a fashion forward blazer in a bright color.Velvet blazers for men are very popular this season. Women this is the time to have a little fun opt for red, purple, pink or sapphire blue and add a holiday themed necklace or clutch. This is a great place to opt for the metallic trend specially the silver shine we are seeing this holiday season. Make sure you look is glamourous, stay away from holiday sweaters and holiday hats.

 

If you are planning to buy a dress this season make sure you read this post  https://sunilr.com/find-your-perfect-dress/

 

Work Related

Business

For Men this is a dress code suggestion at many daytime semi-formal events (particularly work lunches and conferences), this dress code calls for a suit and tie if you are in a more formal industry or a shirt and blazer for a more creative industry. Do go for a grey or suit instead of black and use this opportunity to sport some pattern.

For Women a tailored dress or a pantsuit or skirt suit. Make sure you go with a very feminine blouse, as it is the holiday season. Color is a great way to stand out here,try red,sapphire blue or wine tones. The idea is to wear something business appropriate that also feels dressed-up. Your outfit is your real star here so keep your accessories sleek and simple.

 

Business Cocktail

For Men-This is pretty much the same as cocktail it calls for  dark suit with a tie.Again step up your accessories and shirt so it does not look like a normal work outfit.

For Women-This is pretty much the same as business,it is telling you not to wear anything too revealing or sexy as cocktail dresses can sometimes be.Again step up your attire with fun feminine and glam accessories.

 

Business Casual

For Men-A great pair of pants or chinos with a collared shirt, you can add a cashmere sweater in a fun color. No jeans and sneakers and do stay away from hoodies.

For Women-This is the opportunity to wear a fun top paired with a great pair of black pants or a pencil skirt. A simple sophisticated dress works just as well, pair it with a pastel cashmere cardigan and marijanes for this seasons key statement. Do sport a monochromatic dark floral print with pop color accessories.

 

Smart Casual

For Men-his dress code calls for a dressier version of your casual look.Dress up your favorite jeans with a blazer and leather sneakers. Pair a casual pant with dress shirt and boots. To find the perfect balance make sure at least one item in your outfit is from the dressier section of your closet.

For Women-Dress up your go-to pair of pants with a fun pair of shoes and a wow top. If you chose to wear jeans make sure they are not too distressed and mix them up with heels and a fun jacket. Your outfit should be all about comfort and confidence.

 

Social-Friends and Family

Casual

For both men and women this can end up being a minefield. It is best to stay away from team logo attire and sweats. If you keep in mind that after all this is an event,even if it is in someone’s home so put some effort in to your appearance. Do not wear the clothes that you lounge around in and the same time try not to look like you came straight from work. Your host wants you to be comfortable and focus on all the fun that is going to take place. So make sure your outfit does just that.

 

Theme

We are seeing more of these around the holiday’s parties, people love to be creative and add a special twist to their holiday event. Do wear something that reflects the theme of the evening as your host is putting a lot of effort into the decor, music and food. If the theme reflects a particular decade like 70’s disco or 50’s glam stay away from the costume shop and go with vintage clothing or contemporary clothing that reflects that era. Go more for tasteful than kitsch unless it is an ugly Christmas sweater party then by all means throw taste right out of the window.This is a big trend this holiday season and stores are full of amazing options.

 

Even if you are not into dressing up sport a couple of accessories that reflect the theme they will enable you to get in the spirit of the evening and have fun. A hat,earrings or a scarf that reflects the theme is usually a good bet.

 

 

 When in doubt always dress better than expected!
Sunil

How to dress in this insane weather!

New York City

I am sure you are experiencing what happened to me this saturday,the day started out as a nice Spring day at 55 degrees,by lunchtime it was Summer a very warm 80 degrees but by 6 pm we had dropped down to a very Wintery 38 degrees.

How can anyone dress for this insane weather?

Follow these simple 5 steps to stay fashionable,chic and comfortable no matter how much the temperature fluctuates.

1.Choose your base layer wisely.

Most people think no one is going to see it so why bother and then it get to a really hot and have to strip down.Your first layer should be

  • Soft,absorbent and great feeling against your skin.Cotton,Merino and Cashmere are all great fabrics for a base layer.camis and T Shirts that fit well are the key.
  • Have a close to the body fit and can stand alone if needed.Leggings and Tights are are great under pants.
  • Be in a skin flattering color.
2.Your layers should work together.
  • Your next layer should be easy on,easy off to not destroy hair and make up.Zip and button fronts work really well,as to cowls and deep necklines.
  • Your pieces should all have the same feel or spirit working together and standing alone.Make sure they all have the same mood.
  • Lay out all the pieces on the bed and do a quick check before you put them on.
3.Create interesting color stories.
  • Stick to the same color family with one pop color.
  • If you choose to go monochromatic mix up your textures or else your outfit will look flat.
4.Pay attention to fit.
  • Every layer should be figure flattering,as you go up make sure each layer is slightly bigger.
  • Opt for a jacket or a poncho that can layer well and look good.The good news is technical innovations in fabric and construction have created jackets that are super warm and thin at the same time.They are pricey but worth the investment.Look for a more classic style that will not go out of date.Make sure it folds easily.
5.Make sure you have a large tote.
  • Fold the pieces you take off and put them in the bag.Remember that you may need them again.

With these simple steps you can survive mother nature and remember….

 

5 tips to find your perfect bag

New York City

We all know that have the perfect handbag polishes your outfit and makes your life easy and effortless.It is an effective way to enhance even the simplest outfit and your figure.Here are 5 simple tips to set you on the road to finding your dream bag.

Buying the right bag.

1.How does it look?

Just because  it is the most exquisite think you have ever seen,it does not qualify it to be your handbag.Try it on as you would a dress in front of a full length mirror.Look at it from every angle,making sure it compliments your shape and personality.Remember that you are the star of your show and your bag is your supporting player.

The bag should be in proportion to your height and figure(shape).Here are a few pointers.

If you are petite,look for shorter handles or adjustable straps,you do not want it to hang too low on your body.Make sure it fits everything you need without being too big.If you are tall make sure than handbag does not sit too high on your body and is proportionate for your frame.An overly structured bag can be hard to pull off and pay a lot of attention to your evening bags.If you are curvy,structured bags work best and be more bold in your choices.

Here is a simple chart to show which bags complement your body type.

 

If you are not sure of your body type here is a tool to help you.

The bag should also fit your personality.make sure it expresses who you are.

2.How does it feel?

If you love shoulder bags,make sure the strap is a width that sits comfortably on your shoulder and does not dig in.Walk around a bit and see if the strap slips.Does the bag sit well under your arm.Make sure the metal hardware does not rub in to your body.Ask the store clerk if you can put your stuff in the bag and make sure it is not too heavy.Your handbag should not exceed 8% of your body weight.For example if you weigh a 150lbs you bag when full should not exceed 12lbs.One of the most common causes of back and shoulder pain among women is the weight of their handbag.

3.Will it keep me organized?

Check to make sure your wallet,cell phone and keys are all quickly accessible as those are the 3 things that you use the most.Nothing is more unstylish than a woman digging around in her handbag or emptying the entire contents to find something.When buying a day bag make sure it is secure and prevents items from being lost or stolen.When buying an evening bag make sure it fits all your needs.There is nothing worse that having to carry a cell phone and an evening bag in the same hand.

4.Does it fit your lifestyle?

Think about when and where you will use your bag.If you commute to work by public transportation you will want a sturdy bag that is weather resistant.If you spend a long time in a car you may want a bag that sits up so that the contents can be easily accessed.If you spend a lot of your time with kids you will need a hands free bag.Darker hues,treated leather and nylon bags stand up better to daily wear.

5.How does it compliment my clothing wardrobe?

Make sure the color and style of you bag compliments your wardrobe.You should have tones that match for work and tones that contrast for casual and fun options.If you wardrobe is all neutral get a great tan or brown for day a red for casual and a print for evening.Always remember your bag should not distract from your outfit but enhance it.

 

Your bag wardrobe

Ideally it should be tons of options that complement your clothing but there are 5 main categories that you should have in your closet.

The casual day bag-this is your bag for your days off,this is your fun bag that works well with jeans.Go for a shade that pops and a style that elevates any casual outfit.Messengers,hobos,bucket and drawstring bags work well in this category.

The structured day bag-this is your work bag,it must be versatile and organized.Go for a rich neutral shade like black,brown or tan.make sure it has polish and goes well with dressier clothes.

The tote bag-this is essential for when you are carrying a lot specially your computer.Structure,stitching and hardware elevate this bag.This bag will prevent you from having to carry multiple bags.

The evening bag-this bag is more of a statement but make sure it holds all that you need.Black,silver and gold are great colors.This is one place where you can buy a piece that makes you swoon.

The seasonal trend-this is for the true fashionista,it is fun,fabulous and fashion forward.It is a little bit of a conversation piece and a show stopper.Here are some of Spring’s Top Trends

 

So have fun finding your perfect purse companion!

♥ Sunil

How to accessorize your body!

New York City

Now that you are familiar with your body type and how to dress it.You must also pay attention to how you accessorize it.I have always said that accessories can make your break your outfit.When you pick your accessories it is critical that they work with your outfit but it is also vital that they compliment your body type.Both are equally important.

One of the most common fashion faux pas I see out there is when the outfit and accessories look great but does not frame the woman in quite the right way.I am sure you  sometimes glance at a woman and think “What a great look but  it is not for her”.

Here is what to aim for in creating the perfect look.

Shoes

1.Must make your legs look longer and leaner.

2.Must balance your body shape.

APPLE-you want nothing in the line of vision between your heel and your leg.If you are wearing hose, match it to your shoe.Avoid straps at all costs.Nude is the best color for you or match your pants.Go for a low vamp or an open toe.

PEAR-simple shoes are best because you want to keep attention up top.You also want to balance your hips with a shoe that has substance to it like a wedge or a block heel pump.A skinny high heel can make you look off kilter.

PENCIL-the goal is to add softness,so details like multiple straps,bows and ruffles are a must for you.Ballet flats are your best friend and do not be afraid of high heels. Avoid shoes with a lot of hardware and combat boot are an absolute no no.Chose softer colors like pink,tan and taupe.

HOURGLASS-A curvier body looks better with a curvier shoe.Peep toes and rounded toes are sexy because they echo your curves.Avoid pointy toes at all cost.

STRAWBERRY-Bright colors are key here to move the eye down.Prints are your best friend,but keep the shapes simple.three dimensional details will add interest as well but make sure they are not overwhelming.

Here are  some of the shoes you should consider this season!

 

Bags

This is one area that most women do not pay attention,they look at a bag on a shelf and a counter but not against their body.You need to try on a bag just as you would a dress or a shoe.Do not believe the myth the “Bigger your bag looks, the smaller your booty looks next to it”

APPLE-create balance by making sure your bag is no wider than the widest part of your body. Avoid straps that hang the bag against your mid section.A structured tote with a short handle works best.No tiny bags for you.

PEAR-make sure the bag sits more on the upper half of your body.A short handled bag that sits comfortably under your arm in a bright color can work well to balance your lower body.An oversize clutch carried above your waist is a must for evening.

PENCIL-handbags that sit at the natural waist add a slight curve to your body.Chose soft hobo’s and satchels ,avoid messenger bags at all costs.

HOURGLASS-you can carry any handbag your heart desires but structured boxy bags and totes can give you the best bang for your buck.

STRAWBERRY-Avoid shoulder bags and messenger bags,make sure your straps are not too wide or too long.A cross body that sits against your lower half can work well.

Here are some of the bags you should consider this season!

Belts

The Best Belts for your body shape are the ones that enhance and flatter them.It is also important to wear the belt at the right position on your body.
APPLE-this is the hardest body shape for belts.Soft knit belts or chord belts simply tied to the side create the illusion of a waist with out emphasizing it.Never wear a belt across your mid section and stay with colors that match your outfit.

PEAR-mid width belts are the best;avoid anything skinny or very wide.Stay in the same color family as your outfit and wear it slightly lower on your waist.

PENCIL-avoid anything too wide,wear it at your true waistband create a soft blouson effect by pulling at the fabric on top.This gives he effect of soft curves that is very flattering.

HOURGLASS-your body is built for belts and you should be wearing them almost all the time.They should always be worn at the middle of your waist and the smallest point and dark colors flatter you best.

STRAWBERRY-mid width to narrower belts work best for you.Make sure to wear it lower lower on your waist or at the top of your hip.Wear a light color belt with a darker dress or top and create fullness below the belt.

“SO PAY SOME ATTENTION TO YOUR BODY TYPE WHEN YOU ACCESSORIZE AND YOU WILL LOVE THE RESULTS”

♥ Sunil

Here is a cheat sheet to help you,feel free to print and keep handy!