"Dress" It Up

Ladies, when running late for school, I am sure that getting "dressed" is the furthest thing from your mind. You may instinctually reach for the jean and top combo, assuming this the fastest route out the door. I must say that I disagree! When wearing jeans you must find the right fit and wash, a shirt to complement it, and serious heels. If you are wearing denim with no heels, you are issued a double violation! Sorry. I got sidetracked. Nonetheless, when scrambling for a last minute fit, dresses are the perfect option.

Most know that I heart skirts and dresses because I love feeling dainty and ladylike, but I also love dresses because they are so easy to wear. There is not much thought behind them and all you need is a great pair of shoes. Just think about it.  A dress is one garment, one powerful piece of clothing that creates an entire fit. Some ladies think that when wearing dresses you are, "doing to much." Yes, that has been said to and about me. Unless you are walking around campus in a prom dress or your Friday night freakum dress, there is nothing over done about rocking one and the only way to chop and screw a dress is to wear the wrong shoes or to wear a dress that is disgustingly tight.

Day dresses include empire, peplum, maxi, pleated, sheath, caftan, tunic, bubble, drop waist, etc, all of which I am a fan of. Empire dresses have a waist raised above the natural waistline, typically right below the bust. Empire dresses are great for creating the illusion of height and is a great way to camouflage flaws. For some, empire dresses may make you look preggers, so I suggest wearing shorter versions.

Peplum dresses are my current obsession (besides harems). Peplum dresses usually have a straight skirt, with an attached ruffle, pleat, or bustle placed slightly higher around the waist. These dresses were major in the 80's (big surprise right) and they have made their way back into the closets and hearts of fashionistas worldwide. Peplums were featured in Tracy Reese, Alexander McQueen, and other 2009 runway collections. Though peplums are have regained popularity, they can be hard to track down. Topshop, Neiman Marcus, and Shopbop, all sell peplums, but they aren't necessarily affordable. Forever 21 has an awesome black peplum dress online, but besides that, I have not come across other reasonably priced peplums. I located authentic vintage peplum dresses and skirts on Ebay and most of the "buy it now" prices were under $30.  I am sure that more recessionista friendly stores will be carrying peplums soon. Heels are a must with peplums.

Maxi dresses are by far the most comfortable style of dress. They are ankle-grazing dresses, most often made of cotton, jersey, rayon, or a combination of the three. These dresses look great in solid hues or bold patterns. For some reason, most maxi dresses are halter, though I do see tube dresses. To avoid exposure of skin (back or bust) you can cover up with a cardigan. Though I like to think that platforms and peep-toed booties can be worn with any and everything, they do not go very well with maxi dresses. Maxi dresses give off a boho chic, ethereal vibe, therefore, heels do not mesh very well. Aside from that, the ankle length of the dress plus heels is a health hazard. Trust me I know! I have had a heel get caught up in the floor grazing fabric and down I went! Gladiators, thong, and jeweled sandals are more complimentary. These are great dresses to mill about in, yet you do not sacrifice style.

Sheath dresses exude femininity and sexiness, without trying too hard. Sheaths are very Jackie O and now, Michelle Obama. Our first lady loves sheaths and pairs them with pearls and cardigans. These dresses will give you a mature look, as they tend to fall below the knee. I like them, but I do not really expect to see them on the ladies of BSU. Surprise me though!

Finally, I love the drop waist dress. It is exactly as it sounds; a dress with a waist that has been dropped, usually close to the knee. These may also be referred to as "flapper" dresses. This was the look for the 1920's woman. Coco Chanel is famous for wearing drop waist dresses. This style of dress looks best on taller, leaner ladies.

There is a dress out there for every body type. Find the style of dress that compliments you and work it out! This summer, I encourage you to abuse the dress. And do not be afraid to wear the brightest dress you can find. Dresses are perfect for combating the summer heat, as they do not restrict like jeans and shorts. So when picking out your last minute fit, ladies keep in mind that "dressing" up can be faster and easier than dressing down. And remember, " A lady should always be classy and fabulous".

Rock Star of the Week

Due to allergies, and other random illnesses, I have been MIA, so I have not been truly able to seek out my rock stars. I wonder if I missed anything? I still have not given up hope and know that my female rock star is out there on the other side of campus. We have a few weeks left BSU and my first and only female rock star could be you! Ladies lets go out with a bang, all right?