Beauty is skin-deep?

even guys are sending in pics.  Don't make me call you out, ladies!  You know the deal.  Send me pics.  I can't catalogue the whole of this city without your help, ladies and gentlemen!

This shot on the right was taken by a complete stranger who found my blog on the internet by chance and has become a faithful reader.  Ok, so I might be married to him, but the details are murky.

Just look at our specimen on the right.  Ok, can you tell where her legs end and her shoes begin?  If it weren't for the slit in the back of the skirt, you probably couldn't tell the difference there either.  

Don't get me wrong.  I totally understand the whole, "take care of your skin, wear lots of sunblock" campaign, but that doesn't mean try to match your clothes to your skin tone.  It's one thing to match your hosiery to your skin tone.  I mean, how often does that package of "nude" pantyhose actually look "nude"?  It's a stretch for most of us.  Although, frankly, I'm sorta anti the whole hosiery deal.  But that's just me.

So, how can we fix this?  Well, in the future, I would recommend either purchasing clothes and shoes at least a tad bit different than your actual skin tone or using a self-tanner.  No, I am not suggesting going orange on me, but there are actually some nice ones out there that can give you a gradual tan.  It could help.

Now, in general, I like the color of her skirt and shoes-a beautiful, sophisticated color.  This is the problem that creeps up on a lot of us.  We like a certain color, but when we put it on ourselves, it does not like us.  For me, it tends to wash me out when I wear certain colors not complementary to my skin tone.  That's why it is important to remember that it isn't about the trend, but about what looks best on you, regardless of the trend.  Good luck and happy hunting, my friendly spies!

xxoo, Red

'Mini'-mize the damage

nyc, you are not alone in making bad fashion faux pas.  Thanks to a certain cousin of mine upstate, we have a pic showcasing that (for me at least) all too familiar upstate bar culture. Note the drink in the foreground.

You know, in general, I recommend heels for most of us.  They help our posture, boosting our 'ass'ets, lengthening our legs and giving us some incredible calves.  

...but... 

(Oh come on.  You knew there was a but coming.)  Yeah, I could point out the pun, but even I'm getting annoyed with them.

Ok, back on point.  So, the frayed denim mini.  Well, I'll give you that it is definitely a look.  Not good, but a look all the same.  Here's the deal, it doesn't really matter her size (well, unless she was super tiny) it's so unflattering.  I'm picturing a Betty Boop moment here.  Not in a flattering way, either.  Just way too much real estate exposed here that it looks a little cheap.  Ouch.  Sorry.  Even I cringe to say that because heaven knows I've been there.  But, really, it's not showing her off to her best advantage.  Now, I get it.  You're at a bar.  You're not going for the ladylike trophy of the night, but at the same time you want to be noticed for the right reasons.  We could get all personal here, but suffice it to say that this look sucks.  Keep the heels, pair the loose top with some great skinny jeans and you hit the mark--sexy, cool and stylish.  If you choose to go the mini route, I advise caution.  Check and recheck that full length mirror from many different angles.  Hey, keep 'em guessing.

xxoo, Red

Peeping shoes?

hi there, she says sheepishly.  I know. I know.  It's been too long, but never fear, the pictures are piling up and I have to spread the love.  

Just to allay any rumors, no, I wasn't in fashion rehab for my atrocious workout gear.  It's been a rough time for me and workout clothes, but we are "working" things out.  ...in other words they are ugly, but I refuse to buy new until I see some damn-tastic results.  

So, let's deal with our latest victim over to the right.  (Sigh) Ok, let's be clear, loooving the peep toes, but do we have to go sooo granny with the look?  I think not.  Also, in general, loooove mary janes, but with the peep toe, chunky heel and platform deal it's just way too much look for one pair of shoes.

Now, I love shoes, to the detriment of my feet some days, but let's put some boundaries on this love.  It is great to get some fun trendy shoes, but maybe one trend showcased per pair.  Dare we?  

I was going to go ahead and publish, but let's talk about when to wear black shoes.  If you notice her dress has a lot of browns and tans in it.  Hello, perfect opportunity to wear brown shoes.  Is that a little too obvious?  Well, it is after Memorial Day (for any of us going old school), so she could also go with a beige/ecru color, or some of my favorites are the metallics--particularly the coppers and bronzes.  Ooohh, purrr.  The black just makes it look a little too functional.  Maybe institutional?  Isn't that the look we're all trying to achieve--institutional?  Ouch.  Hope not.  

xxoo, Red

I "Do's"

how about a few "do's" for a change?  yeah?  

i know the whole shtick is to look for examples of what not to do, purely for their instructive value.  (read: really funny and unbelievable that people would actually do some of these things).

anyhoo...here are a few recent favs:

No, seriously.  i like this look, especially as we near the beginning of the summer.  Plus, how many of us have all these summer sundresses that we are itching to wear right now?  Ok, if you 

have actual itches, maybe you should get that checked out, but if you are one of those people who understand metaphors, you get me.  Look, that's just how i roll.  All puns, all the time.  God help me.

Ok, so you might wonder why the nightgown catches my fancy.  Well, let's be real.  This look doesn't work for everyone.  If you are petite and full-figured, this isn't the look you want to go with.  but for those with more willowy figures, this looks really sweet and fun, without being overly precious or too young--note the close-fitting jeans and boots.  Love it.  Plus the cute gathered cap sleeves are so great.  In general, I find these to be adorable on most everyone, unless they are too tight that they cut off your circulation and give you that oh, so elusive Popeye look.  don't go there.

Here's another fav:  THOSE SHOES!!!

How cute, right?  If you aren't in agreement, I respect your right to dissent, but you might want to rethink it.  Obviously, you wouldn't pair these with your leopard print full-length suit, that might be overkill.  But, with a monochrome outfit, how about this for a little fun.  I mean, come on, does it kill you to show some personality in your dress from time to time?  Honestly, the black needs a break.  It told me it was ready for a little caribbean vaca.  It also told me that it wants me to come along and give it some fashion therapy.  So, I'll expect that ticket any day now....

I'm waiting....

So, you're still not buying it, huh?  Well, then at least go for some fun shoes this summer.  Notice too, these have a great gold medallion on them.  I've seen a few of you wearing similar.  If you believe that imitation is the highest form of flattery, maybe you'll be so kind as to post where you found them.  Or you can choose to be selfish....  Your choice.  I'm waiting....

I actually have a few more pics, but I'll save them for another day when we've had enough of the sad ones.

xxoo*, red

*=comment, dammit

Socks and other sundries...

So, one might assume I have a problem with hemlines since I seem to profile them so often here. But, I promise that is not the case. Nor do I have a certain predilection for photographing people from behind, (ahem) the back.

No, the simple fact is that I might have to explain to them just why I am taking their photo if they saw me do it from the front, and frankly I like the way my nose is currently arranged.

Here to our right is yet another example of crops worn all wrong. Just in case the resolution is so poor you can't tell what it is you are looking at, let me interpret the look here for you. Ok, she is wearing a transparent oilve green button-up dress worn open like a duster over black cropped pants and...black socks with olive green shoes.

Maybe I should stop here and let you draw your own conclusions?
Ok.....I'm waiting.

Hmm?

Yes, you're right, socks and crops are BAD. Now did you really have to go and attack the green shoes too? Come on, that was too easy. Let's give her a break and assume those are commuting shoes. But the socks. For God's sake, the socks.

So, let's all repeat this together: "No socks with crops." It just doesn't work.

You, know when I first saw the outfit I had a lot of hopes. That dress was cute and interesting. I even really like the trend of pants under dresses, but then I had to look down. ugh. What a disappointment.

Hey folks, keep those pics coming and don't forget to comment. This is meant to be a dialogue....

love ya,
red

Uh, Santa Clothes??

Wow. I was not expecting this when I set out for work today. I know I expressed my great love of trenches, but maybe I should have used a few more qualifiers.

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, to our right we see that rare species of woman who finds the most hideous red denim trench coat and cropped pant set out there. I don't want to be mean, but when I said that suits should match, this is the exception to that rule. I should also mention that red pants are not the easiest thing to pull off, fashion-wise (case in point).

These pieces by themselves could work individually, but paired together is overkill. OVERKILL.

How do we fix it? Never wear them together again. Pinky swear it!

Instead, try pairing those bright red pants with a fitted black or white t-shirt or even a fitted button-down oxford to pair preppy and fun. This could help tone it down a bit.

Or, why not put the red trench over a crisp white shirt and caramel colored slacks or even great dark-washed jeans--sensational. This would work even over a fun summery white or printed dress, but paired with pants of the same fabric and color--particularly cropped--just makes her look loud and disproportional.

I did catch sight of a gorgeous trench today that had a gathered full skirt and was so flattering, but the picture just looked like a tan blur. Oh well, till next time...

xoxo, Red (note: not an endorsement of the red suited wonder)

Black and blue

No, it's not a bruise, but it's not without blemish on her fashion report card.

You know, from my own experience, ladies suiting can be really difficult. With issues ranging from fit to fabric to color to style, there are a lot of considerations in putting a look together. I find that a lot of suits are made for the 60+ set--either showcasing pleats (ugh), shoulder pads (double ugh), or some other long-lost cousin back from the 80s.

In checking out our friend to right's outfit, I definitely commend her for the fit--it's spot-on, but I have to raise issue with wearing a black jacket and blue pin-striped pants.

Maybe she dressed in the dark and it looked ok. You, know, like when you pick out two socks from the drawer that appear black, but when you get to work realize they're really brown and blue or maybe even some nice clown-costume stripes for those of you who stayed out too late the night before and hadn't had your morning coffee.

Anyway, I'm not a fan. Thoughts? Challenges to this one? It's maybe a little more controversial than some other rants, but I just don't go for it.

Now, this picture is rather mild compared to the one I caught on Sunday. Now, seriously, who in their right mind would ever think, "Wow, I really need a new fushia velvet suit," honestly? I don't think I've ever encountered even that thought before. What's worse is that I have seen two people within the course of a week wearing the same sad suit--one was bright fushia and the other was purple--both were velvet. Come on? Velvet? Really?

I only caught one on film to prove to you that I'm not making this up. Although, don't we all wish I had. If you are ever at the department store and you come across a bright fushia or purple velvet suit, don't stop. Don't pick it up. Don't try it on. Don't rationalize the purchase, that it will look great with that new cherry red haircolor you've been meaning to try. Face it--it's so granny, it's embarrassing.

Ok, so obviously there are a lot of "don'ts" when it comes to suiting, but what about "dos." Here we go:

If you are only going to have one suit in your closet, make sure it is one that will stand the test of time. In other words, you don't want to get something too trendy that it will be out of style in 6 months-1 year. So, be careful when it comes to color, fit and style. Colors should be neutral, no loud colors or patterns. Fit also needs to be precise, so think about getting those pants or even the sleeves tailored if they run a bit too long. Skirts should not be minis or mid-calf, unless we are talking a pencil skirt. Also, this is more my opinion than the gospel truth: think long and hard about pleats. Pleats go in and out of style so quickly that you could be left looking out of date the first time you actually get around to wearing it.

If you do suiting quite often, you can obviously be a little bolder in your color/style choices, but remember that your blouse or accessories are really the hotspots of this outfit. The suit should be able to show off your figure, cinching your waist or highlighting your great legs, not leave you looking like a sack or a stuffed sausage. Then the blouse and necklaces, bangles, scarves, etc will be shown off to their best advantage.

But seriously, this is why you probably would want to invest in a high-quality suit because these things can last for a long time--look at the ever gorgeous Chanel suits (no, I am not saying you have to invest in one of these, but if you want to throw one my way, I will graciously accept)--while your additions can change with the trends. More cost effective that way.

Don't forget to post your comments and subscribe at the bottom of the page to get all the newest posts and tips...

xo, Red

OMG! Oh, no she didn't...

Ok, so at least one of you got on the street and submitted this fabulous "fashion don't" over to the right.  

"What went wrong?" you ask.

Well, it's hard to know where to start.  

Let me start by sharing the comments of my fellow contributor, we'll call her "My South Bronx connection," or MSBC for short.

"...saw this sad display today.  I first noticed there was something wrong with the hood and bag - perfectly sunny and warm today, so why the fur hood?  Then the dark and dreary brown coat and bag hiding the colorful dress underneath.  But then I saw the socks!  It almost makes you forget about the above-waist problems." --MSBC

I couldn't agree more MSBC.  I can give her a pass for the coat because who knows anymore what weather the day will bring, but really, fur??  I'm not talking the PETA argument here, but it is May and I'm pretty certain we're not expecting snow this month in NYC.  Come on, let's all say it together: "Winter is over."  Loose the coat.

Now here comes the hard part.  The belt.  I really don't want to go there, because, hey, she tried, bless her heart.  But no, it doesn't work.  In general, I am a BIG fan of the belt over pretty much anything--well, maybe not your nightgown, although those dresses that are huge and billowy could double as a nightgown and they certainly benefit from belts.  Ok, getting off track.  I mean yes, the belt does keep it from looking like she is wearing a furry brown sack without shape.  No, instead she looks like she is wearing a furry brown sack with a western belt.  Yeah, not much improvement.  

So, how to wear the belt?  I really like it when this is done with clothes that have a bit too much volume and then the belt becomes this great shaping device outlining your waist and/or hips.  It also works when you have a skinny belt on a slim fitting outfit.  But this one--sigh--sorry, but it's not good.  The width is too narrow to look fashionable on top of this shapeless coat.  Plus the textured western feel to it reads all wrong with that hoodie and bag.  Too many styles competing and no one wins.

Ok, here it is, the part you've been waiting for: the platform shoes and white socks.  

Wait -- it is just too painful.  Let's just run through some potential excuses here:

-All her other brown socks that match her coat were dirty today?

-She learned to wear white socks with sandals from her dad?

-She rolled out of bed and into those wedges, white socks and all?

But here's my gut-level fear: SHE GAVE UP.

I know I'm not alone in having those days that qualify as do-overs.  I realize that we all make, sometimes horrendous, mistakes in our fashion choices, but please, DO NOT GIVE UP!  There is no reason to give up on yourself or your look.  And let's face it, if we look like a million bucks, we feel like a million bucks.  How much do you think she was feeling today?  A buck fifty, maybe?

So, remember, you are entitled to have your "off" days, but don't let it turn into off-weeks/months/years.  And if you need to get back in the game, it's not too late to salvage what's left of your wardrobe and get help.  Trust me, there are a million and a half makeover shows out there to back me up.  

Keep the pictures coming... and comment for crying out loud.  This is a dialogue (or at least it can be) rather than a 1-woman show.

xxoo Red

VPL

VPL. Yes, ladies, visible panty line strikes again! I cringe when I see this. Really, I'm not a huge advocate of thongs, but in this case there are a couple issues that need to be addressed and a thong might actually help the situation.

First things first: the label doesn't make it look good. It doesn't matter if the label says size 6 or size 20, if it's too tight, it looks bad. Really, bad. Unfortunately the quality of the photo doesn't convey how bad this was. Not only could you see the lines, but you could see straight through the pants and tell what color her underwear were this day.

Seriously, tight and light is not doing you any favors.

How do we fix this? Well, yeah, a thong could definitely help, but that wouldn't solve the see-through issue.

When trying on a pair of pants, maybe this is obvious, but look at your butt. It's ok. It won't bite. If you don't check it out beforehand, though, you might get bitten in the arse by your choice when on the street.

I know how it is, my pants are constantly shrinking in comparison to my widely expansive hiney, but really, it's in my best interest to look at it before leaving the house. This leads to my new must-have: a full length mirror.

Honestly, this will save you sooo much embarrassment. Don't get me wrong, I don't think this woman's figure is at all problematic, but the size of her slacks are not playing up her ass-ets. She has a great curvy figure, but that's not what you see.

So, yes, even though it is galling to wear a certain size, remember that number does not define who you are. If in doubt about the fit, though, look in the mirror--standing still, walking and sitting--because no one wants to highlight their saddlebags or any other less-savory aspect to their figure. But if you have the hiney to wear really tight pants without fear of exposed cellulite, wear a nude thong--let's keep at least a few things mysterious.

Crops and boots

Feeling a bit equine this week after a weekend jaunt to a horse farm in the Poconos. That does not mean that crops and boots always work, though, as evidenced by the picture to the right.

You know, I give her points for trying. It is a hard one to get right, boots with cropped pants. Obviously come summer, those boots will be off and replaced with ballet flats, flip flops or sandals. But in this crazy, mixed-up weather we call Spring, we still try to make crops work.

"So, what's the trick?" you ask.

Glad to tell you: length.

Wait...haven't we already had this convo?
Sorta. See, hemlines are tricky, if you haven't already figured that out by the multiple postings on this issue. What is really bad though is that so many of us get it wrong so often (Yes, I include myself in this one).

OK, here it is: This would actually work if the pants were cropped a little shorter (or were full length, duh). They are hitting her just above the ankle, but if they were just below the knee with high boots--fabulous! Seriously. No, seriously, it works.

Why? Well, maybe it is because of proportions. With high boots, you see a narrow profile almost from knee to toe and it sort-of reminds me of the look of boots with a knee-length skirt. It just works. Here it is again...it gives you a great shape! Now, notice, I said, "below the knee." Above the knee, well, those aren't cropped pants, those are shorts and yes, I did actually see someone wearing that outfit today and it was not good. NOT GOOD, I tell you. Really, tailored white walking shorts with black knee-high riding boots? Come on. Ok, I'd give it to you if we were talking club clothes that were hot pants and thigh-high patent leather boots, but then I might ask what you are doing on the streets of NYC before noon. I might be tempted to think a few uncharitable thoughts. You know...walk of shame? or maybe "professional"? No, let's not go there.

Trenches, fashion spies and more...

Sooooo sorry for the radio silence. Technical difficulties, exhaustion and travel are my excuses. See. They're valid.

Also, some days I just can't get good pics. Now, this is where you, my friend, have a role to play. You have camera phones, you can text (assuming you know me and my digits) or email or post directly here. (nycfashion101@gmail.com). Now to make up for the days I've missed I have a whole bunch of posts that I'll try and shoot out today. But, before that, let me just make a few comments.

Trench coats: Love. Love. Love. If you have seen Tim Gunn's Guide to Style, you notice that this is on his list of must-haves. I agree. (Of course the problem with this is that I don't have one, thus I must lust after all the gorgeous ones out there). The problem with these gorgeous pieces comes when they hang like potato sacks offering little shape and much too much bulk. When you buy one--which, come on, you know you will give in eventually-- make sure to get one that offers some shaping. Maybe some darts in the bust or a great neckline that scoops down a bit. The point is following a trend just because it's a trend, does not mean that just putting one on solves the stylish dilemma we face each morning, ladies. The deal is that you have to actually find things that fit and accentuate what you have while minimizing things you'd rather not publicize. Now, one picture I had taken previously highlighted a light pink trench that was totally unflattering. One main reason, believe it or not, was the material. It was a lightweight cotton, that might work for some, just caused this poor woman to look like an overstuffed pink peony. (Love peonies but if someone describes your shape as such, not really a compliment. Think big blob of pink.) With a little more weight to the fabric, the coat could have pulled off the structure and slimming effect that trenches offer. Just a thought to keep in mind.

Ok, again, my friends. You are hereby commissioned as my co-conspirators in this blogosphere. Get your cameras going and send in those posts. If you, like some friends balk at the sign-in required to post, just remember no biggie. You, like me, may be a little uninspired to find a cool alias, so here are some options. You know how you took your pets name and the name of the street where you grew up to create your stripper name? Well, the same methodologies can apply here.

Example: My cat growing up was Frosty and my street was Connie. So, Frosty Connie. eh.

For me, I like the color red, sooo, my alias is..."Red." I know. Real original, right. But it doesn't matter. That is why our parents name us, because we become too self-conscious and pick something stupid. So, why not pick a fashion-y name for yourselves. Here are some possibilities:

Do you wear a lot of cardigans? "Cardy"
Too much black in your wardrobe? "Midnight," or "Lazy," or even, "NYCuniform"
Studied art history in college? "Dilettante" or "Itsnotaboutmyactualdegree"
New to fashion? "FashionVirgin" or "Formerexampleofwhatnottowear"
Favorite colors? "Puce" or maybe "RainbowBright"

Trust me, you'll give this more thought than anyone else will.

more later...

It's raining boots!

Love, love, love the boots with jeans tucked-in!  It looks sooo chic!  Even here, the boots themselves are great.  They look just a bit worn in.

So, on a day like today that features rain, rain and more rain, I definitely saw my fair share of boots.  Some did it just right, like the chica above and some, unfortunately were mired in the past.  "What do you mean, Red?" you ask.  

Well, let me break it down--Uggs are sooo last year.  

I know.  I know.  You just bought a pair and need to wear them obsessively to justify the cost, but seriously, it's over.  Don't punish yourself.  They might come back in the next 20 years or so.  Save them if you want.  Fill them with moth balls or hermetically seal them.  Or, maybe try cryogenically freezing them alongside Ted Williams' head.  

Here's the deal: boots are fabulous for most legs--especially for those of you of the thick ankle variety.  However, Uggs do nothing to help this.  Plus, there is this whole touristy aspect to it.  Whenever I see someone walking down the street wearing Uggs and a miniskirt, it's the new tourist id tag.   I know they read their In Style bible from last year cover to cover learning about this "hot" look.  The deal is, NYC isn't quite the same in terms of style as LA, where the look originated.  I can't really imagine anyone here saying, "wow, i really want to wear some fuzzy boots with a mini skirt."  You'll either get frostbite on your legs, if it's winter, or you'll drown your feet in sweat due to the crazy humidity and heat here in the summer.

Now, don't get me wrong, wearing Uggs or other ugly boots for their practical value is one thing, but newsflash--winter is over.  What about some cute polka dot plastic rain boots, or for those on more luxe budgets, there are some Burberry options out there that are pretty adorable.  

Ok, now for the tucked-in jean/boot discussion.  Again, I LOVE it.  But.... (You knew there had to be a "but," right?)  Anyhoo, here's the potential disaster:  your silhouette matters in terms of pulling this look off.  If you tend to be pear- or apple-shaped, this might not be the look you want to do.  

Why? you ask.

Well, it's sorta like stuffing a balloon into the top of a boot--you look ready to pop.  It's similar to the issue with peg-legged pants.  (remember this one?)  It emphasizes the width of your hips.  If you are generally stick straight, this is a good way to create some curves and if you are more of an hour-glass figure, again this just accentuates your curves beautifully.

Now, to do this look well, you should also consider wearing your skinny jeans for this look to work.  Trust me, I keep trying with my bootleg jeans and i never look quite right.  It's more like Farmer Fred going to work in the field than anything else.  Not really the look I want to convey.  All the same, summer will soon be here and boots will move to the back of the closet for that gorgeous three month stretch.  Enjoy them ladies and to quote a dear man: "Make it work!"

Come on, "cuff" it up

Ok, like many people, when the weather heats up, the hems of my pants tend to get shorter. Capris, clamdiggers, walking shorts and even short-shorts appear, but probably one of the most common trends involves us rolling up the cuffs of our jeans. Here's the problem--how do you get it to look like you meant to do it, versus the "oh-crap!-my-bathroom-flooded" look or the ever popular "it-might-rain-and-I-don't-want-to-mess-up-these-oh-so-fabulous-dirty-ripped-jeans" look. Either way, clearly a dilemma deserving the highest level attention possible. So here we go, dear reader, let's plunge into these tricky waters and see how best to avert the flood.

To provide a visual aid, I have a rather poor resolution picture here that does happily give us an example of what not to do.

I could mention the platform nurse shoes, but I'll leave that for another segment and keep my focus on the cuffs. They are not "bad" per se, but definitely not good. It's all about balance.

Rule #1: if you are short, be very careful with this look.

In general, cuffs work best if you are amazonianly tall. Now, if you, like me, fit into the 99.9% of the population that is not of that demographic, think long and hard about this look. It can really cut your legs out from under you, making you look even shorter.

Rule #2: if you have to roll them up to be able to wear them without dragging on the ground like a kid playing dress-up, then for the love of Pete, get them tailored.

If you notice the picture shows a lady with cuffs that seem a little thick, trust me they looked thick in public, it just looks like her pants are too long. Not really saying "fashionista." Now, when you see maybe the single roll that keeps a narrow profile, much better.

Rule #3: if you are going to cuff, you better be wearing cute shoes.

I know I said I wouldn't get into it, but I couldn't help it. They are sooo ugly. She has shapely ankles and then these huge Herman Munster clunkers on underneath. A cute pair of flip flops or maybe some sweet ballet flats would be a much better choice here.

So, to cuff or not to cuff, that is the question. But seriously, if you are 5' or under, do you really want to look the size of an oopah loompah? Let's think tall, long, elegant, not short and stubby.

All "wrapped" up

So I actually like this outfit a lot. Simple, sweet, professional. Wrap dresses are phenomenal for practically any figure--provided they fit. I am not sure if you can tell from this picture, but the dress had a moderately full skirt. (When you go for this look, remember to check the length. If you are petite with a full skirt and nipped-in waist, it could look a bit off.)

Overall, in this case, very cute.

So, why you ask is she highlighted on this blog.

Very good question, my friend. Here it is: it's cute, but boring.

No color, no texture, no nothing. I am all for the NYC uniform, aka black, black and more black. But, I have to wonder sometimes if that becomes a fall back option rather than a fashion-forward decision. In this case, wouldn't a great bangle in that fantastic au courant lemon yellow, or maybe some fabulous red, pink, purple or even leopard print pumps set off her look. Heck, even some long gold chains (no, not Mr. T, but think something more refined) would really take it to the next level. However, if we choose a more modest pairing that won't shock, why not loose the lame belt that came with the dress and pair a wide, glossy black patent-leather belt with it. This is a fabulous option to maximize a tiny waist and create a gorgeous hour-glass figure.

Ladies, you know all this. You probably have these pieces in your closet already. It's spring time! Let's celebrate by adding a little color, a little texture, or maybe even some pattern.

Hello to all the "Juicy" hineys out there. This one is for you.

Ladies (and gentlemen), welcome to the inaugural posting for nyc fashion 101. Here's the deal, there are so many of us out there trying so hard to get it right. And then there are those, like the lady on the right who get it sooo wrong. So, this website is dedicated to helping folks to get it right.

No, I claim no expertise on the subject, but hey, that's the beauty of blogging--democratic to a fault.

So, just in case you were considering it:

Ladies, do not wear a velour track suit with writing on the rear end.

This is particularly applicable for those in the 40+ set. I don't want to kick someone when they're down, but seriously, if you have a flat hiney, it does not qualify as juicy. Seriously. I guess you could go for irony, but again the age thing gets me. Maybe she put it on without looking at the backside. There. That's an encouraging thought. So, for any of you out there considering such an option, please look in the mirror first and consider just how juicy is that hiney.

Now, for those of you who might have a really tight body that you want to show off to its best advantage and to you I say "right on," but please no "Juicy" hineys. It's just bad. No really, it's baaaad.