Q&A: How to Wear Skinny Jeans

Q: I’m about 5′8", skinny but self conscious. I bought a pair of skinny jeans on a trip to Chicago. The clerk said they looked hot and told me to wear a skinny top and make sure whatever top I chose accentuated the waist of the jeans. But when I Googled, I found a advice that said to wear a loose tunic. What’s the low down on skinny jeans?

Kasil Jett Skinny Jean in Midnight RinseBy Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant

A:  Since you’re tall and skinny, skinny jeans look great on you, however you wear them.  But we think that an ultra-voluminous top would overwhelm your figure (which can work, depending on the look you’re going for). 

How to wear the skinny jean?  Like Kate Moss, the Queen of the Skinny Jean.  Wear a camisole then add a vest.  The fitted look of the vest-over-camisole plays with the idea of menswear as womenswear.   Another option is to wear the skinny jeans with a very fitted blazer.  Bonus points for a blazer with a three-quarter sleeve.  To balance the sharp angles of the blazer and the jeans, wrap a soft, billowy scarf around your neck. Finish off the outfit with a black ballet flat, sexy black boot, or even calf-high minnetonkas, and people may just mistake you for Kate.

But what if you’re not tall?  Look no further for advice about How to Wear Skinny Jeans if You’re Short.

Have a great tip about how to wear skinny jeans?  Share it with us in the comments!

Pictured:
Kasil Jett Skinny Jean in Midnight Rinse | $131 (sale) at Revolve Clothing.


Style question?  We’ve got answers.  E-mail us at tips at omiru dot com, or leave us a comment with your question.

Posted by Trisha on August 23rd, 2007 in Q&A, Women's |

Q&A: What to Wear with a White Blazer

Q: What would suggest wearing a white blazer with to NOT give off the Miami Vice look?  And, more generally, what other types of pants would you recommend with any blazer?  The jeans and shirt and blazer look is so boring.

Ben Sherman \'Paddle\' Two Button BlazerA: 
The big white blazer with a pastel shirt screams Miami Vice (and the 1980s), but you don’t have to dress like Don Johnson if you don a white blazer.  Try the white blazer with a black shirt and dark-rinse blue jeans for an casually elegant nightwear look.

You can also try going preppy with the white blazer. Pair it with a colorful polo and shorts.  Or replace the polo with a striped or plaid shirt for even more visual interest.  You can get away with knee-length shorts in white or colored fabrics–or even seersucker.  Finish off the outfit with a pair of boat shoes or docksiders.  Very WASP.

More generally, you can wear blazers with almost any type of pants, if you’re daring.  It’s less about what you wear than how you wear it.  While most men keep to jeans or trouser pants in the same fabric for their blazers, you can expand your options to trouser pants in different patterns and textures (very sophisticated when done right), cargo pants, and even shorts. 

Have a great tip about what to wear with a white blazer?  Share it with us in the comments!

Pictured:
Ben Sherman ‘Paddle’ Two Button Blazer | $169 at Nordstrom.


Style question?  We’ve got answers.  E-mail us at tips at omiru dot com, or leave us a comment with your question.

Posted by Trisha on August 22nd, 2007 in Men's, Q&A | 5 comments

Q&A: Where to Find Shoes with Arch Support

Q:  I really love the look of flats but I get shin splints wearing them! I usually slip in an insole, but can you direct me to any well-made flats with arch support?

Taryn Rose Orbit PumpA: 
For shoes that won’t cause you foot problems, I turn to Taryn Rose.  A former orthopedic surgeon, she creates shoes that are not only stylish but also good for the feet.  But even Taryn Rose’s collection of flats lacks in the arch support department.  So–we’d recommend continuing use of your insole when you want to wear flats. 

Should you be looking with shoes with a slight heel, though, Taryn Rose has a few styles to check out:

Taryn Rose Orbit Pump | $241.90 (sale) at Nordstrom (Pictured)

Taryn Rose Gaby Slide | $435 at Nordstrom

Taryn Rose Adore Wedge | $445 at Zappos

Taryn Rose Darcelle Wedge | $515 at Zappos

Have a great tip about where to find shoes with arch support?  Share it with us in the comments!

Style question?  We’ve got answers.  E-mail us at tips at omiru dot com, or leave us a comment with your question.

Posted by Trisha on August 21st, 2007 in Q&A, Women's |

Omiru Poll Result: The Short Sleeved Jacket is In!

Omiru Poll Result: The Short Sleeved Jacket is In


Nanette Lepore \'Coquette\' Jacquard JacketWe asked:Is The Short Sleeved Jacket In or Out?

You said:  In! A 63% majority voted the Short Sleeved Jacket In.

Omiru’s take: The Short Sleeved Jacket is our favorite way to bridge your summer and fall wardrobes–and it’s as appropriate for business casual workplaces as it is for the weekend.  We love the cap-sleeved jacket, the elbow-length sleeved jacket (pictured), and the 3/4 length sleeved jacket.   Style tip?  The longer the sleeve, the more formal the jacket–so adjust the sleeve length accordingly for your workplace. 

Next Question: Our friends at Second City Style are lusting after Leather Jackets for fall, especially fitted, feminine styles.   But what do you
think? Tell us, is the Leather Jacket In, or is it Out? Cast your
vote on the sidebar!

Pictured: Nanette Lepore ‘Coquette’ Jacquard Jacket | $161.90 (sale) at Nordstrom.

Posted by Trisha on August 20th, 2007 in Trend, Trend Predictives, What's In and What's Out, Women | 2 comments

Q&A: What to Wear in Paris

Q: I will be studying abroad in Paris from September to December. What should I wear?  Also, could you give me personal recommendation on shopping places (apparel, shoes) or attractions?

GUESS? \'Alexandria\' Wool Blend CoatBy Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant

A:  The first thing you will need are comfortable yet stylish walking shoes, as you’ll be walking across cobblestone streets.  For uneven surfaces like these, flats are going to be your best bet.  I recommend shoes from French Sole, as they have a wonderful selection of these easy-to-wear flats. 

In Paris, the style was tailored and classic.  Everyone was well groomed and well accessorized–scarves are key. Handbags, eyeglasses, shoes and boots were stylish and edgy.  Think of classic shapes with interesting details–an oversized buckle, an unusually placed zipper. 

As a student, you would need a foundation of tailored jeans, comfortable tees and a few pretty sweaters–choose grey or navy for versatility.  Upon this foundation, add one-of-a-kind type pieces that will give your look personality.  A dramatic tulip skirt, a jacket with an oversized bow, a distinctive chapeau.  I would also pack a figure flattering basic little black dress (LBD), which you can dress up or down with a sexy stiletto. 

As for stores to visit, don’t miss Colette in the first arrondissement–very fashion forward and fun.  Also check out Annick Goutal perfume shops, which are beautiful little jewel boxes.  Galeries Lafayette should not be missed at Christmas–the lights at that store are spectacular.

Christmastime is tastefully beautiful in Paris, and as a bonus, the weather is rather temperate. A good wool jacket or coat in a slim silhouette with a beautiful scarf will keep you happy and stylish while ice skating at the Tour Eiffel.  Bonne chance!

Have a great tip about what to wear in Paris?  Share it with us in the comments!

Pictured:
GUESS? ‘Alexandria’ Wool Blend Coat | $168 at Nordstrom.


Style question?  We’ve got answers.  E-mail us at tips at omiru dot com, or leave us a comment with your question.

Posted by Trisha on August 17th, 2007 in Q&A, Women's | 3 comments

Q&A: How to Wear a Knit Dress

Q: I love all the cute knit dresses being shown for late summer/fall, but many are on the sheer side and I’m not sure what to wear underneath without showing too many lines or looking bulky.  Can you recommend any designers that don’t present this problem?

James Perse Twisted Sheath DressBy Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant

A: 
When you’re wearing a knit dress, wearing the right undergarments is absolutely essential.  Spanx makes wonderful body shapers in a nude color–great because they’re not visible and they hide unseemly lines.

As for designers who make great knit dresses, try Abaete, James Perse, and C+C California.  Abaete knits are lined to prevent sheerness, and James Perse and C+C California knits are made of buttery soft and heavy cotton.  Not only do they drape beautifully, but they’re also not sheer. 

A discussion of knit dresses would not be complete without a note about fit.  Clothes should skim the body and not be so tight that undergarments are bulging. Proper fit and proper undergarments are the "foundation" to looking great in any dress!

Have a great tip about how to wear a knit dress?  Share it with us in the comments!

Pictured:
James Perse Twisted Sheath Dress | $185 at Shopbop.


Style question?  We’ve got answers.  E-mail us at tips at omiru dot com, or leave us a comment with your question.

Posted by Trisha on August 16th, 2007 in Q&A, Women's | 2 comments

Q&A: The Best Oversized White Handbags

Q:  I always carry white purses–it’s sort of my thing. I’ve been looking for a great bag, but I haven’t been able to find anything. It needs to be white, roomy and most importantly, absolutely fashionable.

Anna Corinna Mini City ToteA:  The white purse provides the perfect counterpoint for Fall’s blacks and greys. Here’s a selection of stylish, roomy white purses at a variety of price points:

MAXX NEW YORK ‘Bridle’ Oversize Triple Zip Satchel | $148 at Nordstrom

Anna Corinna Mini City Tote | $360 at Shopbop  (Pictured)

Cole Haan ‘Kaylie’ Slouch Bucket Bag | $425 at Nordstrom

Kooba Parker Patent Leather Shoulder Bag | $635 at Shopbop

Have a great tip about where to find a great oversized white handbag?  Share it with us in the comments!

Style question?  We’ve got answers.  E-mail us at tips at omiru dot com, or leave us a comment with your question.

Posted by Trisha on August 15th, 2007 in Q&A, Women's | 4 comments

Q&A: What to Wear with Motorcycle Boots

Q: I just received a pair of knee-high black, leather motorcycle boots from Banana Republic. How do I wear these on a college campus without looking too pretentious? I love skinny jeans, dresses, and skirts.

Façade \'Cameron\' BootBy Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant

A: 
We have two ideas for you to work your motorcycle boots into your wardrobe:
(1) For a fun, adventurous look, wear your motorcycle boots with black tights, dark colored short shorts, and a white blouse.  The look is somewhat man tailored, and a little Patti Smith goes to college.  
(2) For a less flashy way to wear the boots, pair them with skinny jeans , a white t-shirt, and a grey wrap sweater.  The wrap sweater softens the look without overly contrasting with the hard style of the boots.

Perhaps most importantly, have fun at college–and wear the boots with confidence!

Have a great tip about what to wear with motorcycle boots?  Share it with us in the comments!

Pictured:
Façade ‘Cameron’ Boot | $129.95 at Nordstrom.


Style question?  We’ve got answers.  E-mail us at tips at omiru dot com, or leave us a comment with your question.

Posted by Trisha on August 14th, 2007 in Q&A, Women's | 1 comment

Omiru Poll Result: The One-Shouldered Dress is Out!

Omiru Poll Result: The One-Shouldered Dress is Out


YAYA AFLALO Fans Noir DressWe asked:Is The One-Shouldered Dress In or Out?

You said:  Out! 42% of you voted the One-Shouldered dress Out, and another 26% voted it On the Way Out.

Omiru’s take: While starlets are dolling themselves up with the one-shouldered dress for the red carpet, we’re leaving this trend on the rack.  Sure, it’s as dramatic as it is elegant–but the one-shouldered dress is a tough one for figure flattery.  Style tip?  Should you decide to try the one-shouldered dress, head to the gym to tone up your upper arms.

Next Question: We’re still feeling the summer heat, but we’re also looking to build our wardrobes for fall.  One way to bridge the seasons style-wise is with the Short Sleeved Jacket.   But what do you
think? Tell us, is the Short Sleeved Jacket In, or is it Out? Cast your
vote on the sidebar!

Pictured: YAYA AFLALO Fans Noir Dress | $99 (sale) at Shopbop.

Posted by Trisha on August 13th, 2007 in Trend, Trend Predictives, What's In and What's Out, Women |

Friday Fashion Hotlist | Treats from the Summer Sampler

Welcome to a Special Sampler Edition of the Friday Fashion Hotlist: a compilation of the cutest and coolest stuff Omiru’s Style Intelligence Report saw out there on the web.

This week, we present to you Our Favorite Goodies from the Sampler to show you the best of the best from independent crafters and artists.

Manic Trout Bottle Cap Magnets
Bottle Cap Magnets at Manic Trout
Check out the original watercolor and oil pantings at Manic Trout.


Donovan Beeson Map Scraps

Donovan Beeson Map Scraps | $2.50 at Etsy
Get crafty with map scraps from Donovan Beeson. Perfect for a Saturday DIY project.

Mau Studio Bookmarks
Mau Studio Bookmarks at Mau Studio
Don’t miss Mau Studio’s adorable stationery and graphics.

Are you a designer or crafter?  Spread the word about yourself by sending your goods to The Sampler today!

Posted by Trisha on August 10th, 2007 in Friday Fashion Hotlist, Trend |

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