Scarves: can't live with them, can't live without them. Putting together an outfit can be hard work and it usually seems like putting on jewelry, tights, and scarves don't seem to be worth the effort and work to incorporate in. However, I believe that going the extra mile with your ensemble is what sets you apart from the sea of people surrounding you. They can start conversations with the right people whether that be a future employer or a cute stranger, or spark the imagination of a friend or onlooker in their own ensemble. Either way, the holidays are a perfect time to launch a sneak attack in the form of a scarf to add that pizazz and class to your image.

Three materials that I adore for scarves in winter are wool, satin, and and silk.

WOOL

Wool scarves can be made from the hair or fur of alpaca, goats, and sheep. 

Alpaca is the warmest of the three due to the fact that Alpaca were bred specifically for their hair and can live in altitudes of 11,500- 16,000 feet in Chile... BRR! Another plus to using their wool is that it is not only luxurious in its texture and its glossy appearance, it is also flame resistant! (Yay?!)

Wool from goats or cashmere have been used in Nepal and Kashmir for thousands of years and were first used in manufacturing shawls. However, they have expanded to scarves and other products due to their weight (very light so you won't get weighed down) and the fact that the material will actually become more soft in texture with wear. 

The fleece of sheep is what is used to produce wool for weaving. Currently, 90% of the world's sheep partake in production of wool. White wool can be dyed any color so it is the most valuable color to be used for producing products.  Wool is great for everyday use due to its functionality (it's warm AND durable) and the fact that it is long-lasting. 

SATIN VS. SILK

Though both materials are very similar due to their smoothness and softness, there are very distinct differences between the two. First of all, though satin can have materials such as silk woven with other materials, silk is a natural fiber and threads are made exclusively from the cocoons of silk worms. Silk threads are hard to produce which is why they are so darn expensive! In addition to its expense, they are also high maintenance due to how delicate the material is. However, because of the long fibers used in its production, it is more durable than satin. Satin is relatively low in cost to produce and has more of a glossy appearance which makes it more accessible to purchase. 

Keep in mind though that both materials require dry cleaning!

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Thanks for reading, everyone!

Write me a little something in the comment box below or on my Facebook "like" page: https://www.facebook.com/midorioutfitdujour.

I also have started a "like" page for my modeling here: https://www.facebook.com/MidoriEsmeralda. New post will be up soon, so stay classy!

XOXO Midori

Outfit Du Jour: Set Fire to the Rain... WITH STYLE!

Recently, I had a reader by the name of "Kat" suggest to me to have a blog concerning the following: How to look cute but be practical when it's raining; specifically when you have to be business or business casual.

First of all, when it's raining, you need an umbrella, scarf, boots, and/or gloves. 

An umbrella will allow you to wear a jacket without a hood. It also will allow you to remain nice and dry and eliminate soaking items of clothing.

A scarf can be placed on your head (ladies) in order to keep your hairstyle intact. For the boys, you can use the scarf around your neck to cover what your peacoat, or other style of jacket does not. You can remove the scarf upon arrival or you can tie the scarf in a bow around your neck depending on the material and size of your top under your jacket (ladies).

Boots allow you to conquer pesky puddles and are a good option for the business or business casual look. Referring to my last post, there are do's and don't for boots depending on the occasion. Picking a boot that has a wedge or has a good amount of treading in addition of a leather that isn't distressed can create a perfect look for going into the office as well as battling the rain. Please, no furry boots! 

Gloves are a nice touch to an outfit. However, for those of you with smartphones, remember that touch screens won't respond to a finger encased in a glove. They can be easily worn for any occasion. 

Once you have the above accessories, ensure you have a jacket. A trench or a peacoat is great due to its length and because its material will keep the cold out and the warmth in. They also are timeless pieces that exude style. 

Just because it's raining does not mean that you need to sacrifice style for comfort and warmth. Picking the pieces strategically based on color and the amount of use is what is important. 

Instead of picking a dreary black scarf, pick a checkered scarf or a bright red one for a pop of color. Instead of picking a boot that is distressed, pick one with a rich black or brown color so you can be prepared for any situation. 

Instead of picking a hoodie, pick a peacoat that can be worn during the fall or winter. Pair it with a dark jean to meet up with friends or with a pair of slacks to be office ready. 

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Thanks for reading, everyone!

Write me a little something in the comment box below or on my Facebook "like" page: https://www.facebook.com/midorioutfitdujour.

I also have started a "like" page for my modeling here: https://www.facebook.com/MidoriEsmeralda. New post will be up soon, so stay classy!

XOXO Midori

Outfit Du Jour: Give 'em the boot!

In an earlier blog, I briefly went over some of my favorite items for fall to keep you toasty and tantalizing. Now, I want to go more into depth in the area of footwear when it we transition to the cold seasons.

Boots that are marked with an asterisk are the ones that I consider to be the most bang for your buck; enjoy!


WOMEN'S BOOTS

1. Gangam Style: The Riding Boot
This boot is one of my favorites due to the fact that it is a timeless piece. From police officers, to Vogue, this boot has adorned many feet with few variations. What I love about these boots is their length. Paired with a skinny jean or leggings, they fit high on the calf and help keep the cold out. They also offer a "preppy" or "classic" look that look awesome with a peacoat or an argyle sweater.

Here are my Ralph Lauren leather riding boots in black:

2. Rise Above the Rest: The Heel Boot
The heel boot can be any boot listed with the variation being in the height of the heel. By having a heel boot, you can up the style factor and the formal factor as well. These, like the riding boot, can look awesome with a mini skirt, tights, and a turtleneck.

Here are my BCBG heel boots in black:

3. *Miss New Booty?: The Bootie*
These boots are easily dressed up or down and come to about the ankle. You can find them in all kinds of materials, patterns, and heel sizes. This is probably the best cold weather shoe to invest in for a woman in my opinion. I myself am the proud owner of several pairs of booties. I personally would invest in a bootie in a neutral color rather than in a pattern or intensely vibrant color to ensure maximum use. However, I can never object to a pop of color in say, red! (:

Here are my Bamboo ankle boots in red:

4. Get Low: The Ankle Boot
Unlike the riding boot, these boots give you more freedom to move easily. Riding boots can be confining due to their length. As the boots suggest, these boots reach to the ankle or a little beyond and can come in many variations such as having belts or zippers on them. These are casual boots if they have lacing in the front. If not, they are semi-casual.

Here are my Vera Wang, lace-up ankle boots in black:

MEN'S BOOTS

1. Fried Without the Clogged Arteries: The Frye Boot
They come a little above the ankle and can lace up or zip-up. I prefer the boots to be in some form of leather minus the lacing due to the fact that they can be dressed up or down.  They are also available in other materials such as canvas. Another factor is the "wash" of the leather or faux leather. What I suggest is to get more bang for your buck by getting a dark leather boot that is not distressed at all so it is possible to transform it.

It's a great look to get a slim fit or boot cut jean to pair with this boot. Put the pants on first and the boots second. Then, tuck the pants into your boots and zip them up. You can always leave them on the outside of the boot, but by tucking them in you can achieve a militaristic style look.

2. Lacey Days: The Lacer Boot
The name doesn't leave much mystery: they lace up. These boots, though similar to the Frye boot, come to about mid-calf and are a more casual alternative to the Frye boot. They too come in different washes but I suggest a dark wash since, with age, the boots will age naturally and more uniformly.

3. Workin' It: The Work Boot
Similar to the Lacer boot, these boots are heavy-duty. They also come in variations that include "fur". These are more recreational than the first two boots I listed for men so although they aren't formal, they will keep you warm and ensure you don't slip and slide in the rain.

4. *Low Profile: The Ankle Boot*
This is a boot that, like the Frye boot, can be dressed up or down. This is probably the best cold weather shoe to invest in for a man. Once again, like all of the other boots mentioned, a dark wash (one without distress to it) should be purchased to ensure maximum use. These shoes should also be paired with a DRESS sock.

NOTE FOR BOTH MY LADY AND GENTLEMAN, BOOT-WEARING READERS: Make sure you treat your shoes with respect! Seriously, keep them treated by shining them and wiping them down every so often. Also, as stated in an earlier blog, you can maintain the shape of the boot by stuffing them with newspaper or tissue paper.

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Thanks for reading, everyone!

Write me a little something in the comment box below or on my Facebook "like" page: https://www.facebook.com/midorioutfitdujour.

I also have started a "like" page for my modeling here: https://www.facebook.com/MidoriEsmeralda. New post will be up soon, so stay classy!

XOXO Midori

Outfit Du Jour: Layers aren't just for cakes.

I'll keep this post nice and simple. For those of you experiencing the phenomenon of Fall or Winter AKA a time when you can't just run out the door in a t-shirt and shorts, this post is for you. Layering is a simple, fun, and fashionable way to not only tell the world that you know what you're doing when the cold weather hits, but that no matter what curveball Mother Nature sends in the form of weather that you will be ready.

Let's start from the outside in, boys and girls. 

1. Jackets should be functional as well as show a flair for fashion. Trench coats are great when rain is on the menu by helping to protect almost the entirety of your body, not just your torso. Since rain is what they're mainly made to protect you from, you can find them in an array of materials. I personally keep a slick, neutral beige one instead of one made from wool for example based on my geographical location. For those on the east coast, it would be a better investment to integrate wool or a synthetic wool into your wardrobe. Peacoats are also a favorite of mine as I have four in my collection in blue, red, gray, and black. What's great about these coats are that they can be integrated into your formal or casual wardrobe since they look great with jeans and slacks.

Although hoodies are a great way to stay warm in a casual way, they can easily be interpreted as "lazy" or "ratty". Try to keep them looking nice by putting them in the dryer for a short amount of time and letting them air-dry a bit. Otherwise, the material can easily get those annoying little balls and the outside can fade in a very unflattering way. They are also not something that can be integrated into the workplace (one that requires a suit and tie, dress, slacks, etc.).

2. A sweater, thin or otherwise, can be worn under a jacket so if your jacket gets soaked by the time you clock in to work or if you're having lunch at a restaurant that keeps cranking up the heat, you can easily have the option to take your outfit down a notch and make yourself more comfortable. 

3. The layering continues under the sweater with a thin tee-shirt, tank top, camisole, or a button-up shirt if you're feeling like adding a little formal touch. You should always wear something under your sweater. Why? Because wearing a shirt or a tank under your sweater and even a dress shirt will:
1. Absorb any sweat as well as act as a barrier between the sweat your body produces and the material from the sweater or shirt.
2. Cover any icky smells your body may emit.
3. Keep armpit stains away. Yuck!
4. Add yet another layer to keep you extra toasty.

Basically, this layer is crucial because it ensures that your sweater or dress shirt will have a happier and longer life serving you. Who wouldn't want that? (:
  

4. For the ladies, a skirt with tights or leggings, dark wash jeans, or slacks can be worn as bottoms. For the men, slacks, dark wash jeans, or cords (corduroy pants) can be worn. If you're feeling extra chilly, ladies, you can wear tights under your pants. 

5. Have you ever seen someone's leg showing above their socks when they cross their leg? This is something that is avoidable! Always make sure you don't wear ankle socks during winter. Instead, try to wear socks that are crew, boot, or dress length. This will also ensure that you keep in all of the warmth rather than letting in the cold. 

Socks don't seem to be a major part of an outfit, but you have to remember that to be considered "put together", attention to detail is key and that even the small parts complement the whole.

Here's my outfit and outfit breakdown for the fall: 

Black peacoat by Michael Kors; black, long sleeve shirt from American Apparel; black camisole; dark wash jeans by Michael Kors; leopard print heels by Michael Kors; purse by L.A.M.B; chain necklace by Vera Wang.

Although my outfit has a small pop of color in my shoes and my handbag, feel free to have fun with color in the winter! Try having a color theme for your outfit i.e. blue and select items all from the same color family. That way, you don't have to stress on finding an exact match to the color of the item and can instead play with the colors that you do have.

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Thanks for reading, everyone!

Write me a little something in the comment box below or on my Facebook "like" page: https://www.facebook.com/midorioutfitdujour.

I also have started a "like" page for my modeling here: https://www.facebook.com/MidoriEsmeralda. New post will be up soon, so stay classy!

XOXO Midori

Outfit Du Jour: Keep Warm and Carry On

It's October and finally starting to get chilly over here in beautiful Southern California. Who's ready to start breaking out the scarves, hats, and boots with the fur... anyone? I know I am. I'm also ready to share some ways to not end up looking like the Michelin (wo)man in size and shape but to, instead, look put together and fashionable. Here's some tips, enjoy!

Tip #1: Layering is not just for cakes.
In order to avoid overheating as well as looking too bulky, try layering! It's a fun way to play with your clothes. You can start with a tank or camisole, then put on a v-neck t-shirt or long sleeved shirt, and then a cardigan. That way, as the day presses on and that sun starts to peek out, you won't have to suffer the consequences of bundling up as if you're in the middle of a snowstorm.

Tip #2: Comfort is key.
Boots are a hot item for winter, no matter what style. Keep in mind what you plan on doing throughout the day though. If you're going to be walking around at school, knee-high boots with stilettos might not be the best idea. Instead, try and wear some knee-highs with a conservative heel. Sometimes it's fine to sacrifice some comfort for style, but if you need to be on your feet all day, it's probably not worth it.

Tip #3: Don't kill Bambi and Co.
Boots, jackets, gloves, etc. that have fur, fluff, or anything of the sort are NOT formal nor are they the only way to keep your feet-sies warm. With the technology available today, there are plenty of alternatives that look and feel like the right thing that don't have the price tag of animal products. However, remember that by wearing something similar to the real thing, you are endorsing that it is not only okay to wear it, but it is fashionable.
If you can't "live a lie" by wearing something that isn't the real thing, try shopping at vintage stores instead. That way you aren't encouraging companies to meet the demands of consumers by producing new products, but are reusing a product that is in good condition and high quality and giving it another chance at a new life. Don't worry, Bambi and friends will thank you.

Tip #4: Tights, leggings, and pantyhose, oh my!
These three items are great for you ladies looking to wear a dress, but not looking to freeze in the name of fashion. They come in a wide array of colors and materials, so there's something for everyone and every occasion. It's also a great way to play with color by picking a neutral color, such as black, for a dress, and a bold color, such as red, for your leggings.

Keep reading, and I'll keep writing. Please feel free to leave a comment and to leave me any ideas for a future blog. Also, look for my Facebook page dedicated to the blog by typing in "Outfit Du Jour" into the search engine on the site. Stay classy, guys.

Outfit Du Jour: Hallo-We-Love-Costumes

So it's that time of year again, folks: Halloween. As much as I love dressing up and wearing costumes, it makes one appreciate the beauty and the creativity that is possible all the more. Although I had a blog prepared in advance concerning men's fashion- don't worry, it will be up next week- I felt that I couldn't help but scoop up this opportunity to do something a little different.

It's hard to stay creative and to try something new when there's such an array of pre-made, "safe" costumes that will ensure you not only look good, but should guarantee that they last more than a few hours before falling apart. (I'm definitely not the most gifted in sewing!) It can also be an issue to come up with a costume when you're not only short on money, but also short on time to "throw" something together.

Here's a few costumes that are not only easy to mimic (you can find similar items within your personal price range), but can also make you feel accomplished since you put them together all on your own (:

1. Circus Ringleader (Inspired by Britney Spears' video for her single "Circus") and Tiger
What you need: Top-hat; (cream-colored) form-fitting, lacy teddy (camiknicker, bodysuit) or (cream-colored) corset; black, satin jacket; high-waist (black) hot shorts; (riding, knee-high) boots.
Optional accessories: Lavaliere (bold, statement necklace with lots of pizazz); whip; (black) tights.
Possible companion costume ideas: Any exotic animal such as a tiger, elephant, or zebra; clown; tight-rope walker (tutu?).

My interpretation:

Tiger
What you need: Mask (needs to be tiger print or any exotic cat print, can include whiskers); orange and/or black attire (shirt, tank, pants, shorts, etc.); tail (you can either purchase a tail or you can use a tie from a robe and pull it through your pants loops or pin it on the back of your pants/shorts).


My Tiger and I:

2. Mary Poppins and Bert 

What you need for...

Mary: Black trench coat; white, button-up blouse; red neck tie or scarf; black bowler hat adorned with flowers made of fabric; black skirt; red belt; black tights; black pumps; umbrella.

(Optional) accessories: Carpet bag; glovelettes; red lipstick.

Don't forget to style your hair into a bun!

Bert: Scarf; (gray or black) newsboy cap; (gray or black) button-up shirt; (gray or black) button-up vest;  black jeans or black slacks; black shoes.

(Optional) accessories: Suspenders; chimney sweep.

How to make a chimney sweep and what you need:

Dowel, styrofoam ball, black pipe cleaners, black paint.

Spray paint the dowel and the styrofoam ball. Then, once dry, take the dowel and stick it into the styrofoam ball. Finally, take the black pipe cleaners and stick them into the styrofoam ball.

3. Where's Waldo?

What you need: Red and white striped shirt; knit cap (white and red striped, or one that is just red or just white); fake glasses; jeans; sneakers.

4. Cotton Candy

What you need: Pink/blue leotard or tube dress; pink/blue tutu; pink/blue tights; cotton candy "hat", pink heels.

(Optional) accessories: Wear pastel pink and/or pink glitter eyeshadow and focus around your eyes to give a "sugary" appearance. Cotton candy is spun sugar after all!

How to make a cotton candy "hat" and what you need: 

3-4 pink/blue loofahs, white construction paper, glue, scissors, elastic string and/or bobby pins.

Take the white paper and roll it into a cone shape. Glue to maintain the shape and cut off excess paper in order to keep the bottom even. Next, take the loofahs and glue them together around the bottom of the paper so it almost looks like a daisy flower pattern. Finally, fasten the elastic string to one of the loops on the loofah by tying it. Keep the hat in place while you party by using bobby pins under the hat to your hair. 

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Thanks for reading, everyone!

Write me a little something in the comment box below or on my Facebook "like" page: https://www.facebook.com/midorioutfitdujour.

I also have started a "like" page for my modeling here: https://www.facebook.com/MidoriEsmeralda. New post will be up soon, so stay classy!

XOXO Midori

Outfit Du Jour: Witchcraft?

Last week, I focused on professional attire. This week, I'd like to focus on the benefits and how-to's of transforming a day-look to a night-look. Okay, boys. Now's your chance. Here's a post entirely dedicated to you and your wardrobe and to showing you that there's no "secret" or "magic" to being able to rock a casual and/or formal look with ease. However, ladies, make sure you take notes so you can share this information with your fathers, brothers, boyfriends, husbands, uncles-twice-removed, etc.

Casual/Day Look:

First, I picked a black jean by Levi's. For any man, I highly suggest at least one dark wash jean and one black jean for a wardrobe. No psychedelic washes, please! Please also rethink purchasing a distressed jean. I should not be able to see any holes, tears, or patches on the pants for a jean to pass my test. This also means no distress to the back of the leg of pants due to it being too long or worn. $5-$10 should be able to afford you a neat and well-done hemming by a professional at most dry cleaners. It may not seem like something that most people would notice, but small details like this are a perfect and classy touch to any outfit.

For the top, I picked a respectable and classic white button-down shirt by Marc Anthony. Due to the fact that the blazer is my statement piece (see Night/Semi-Formal or Formal Outfit below) where I want the eyes of the onlooker to go first, I want the other pieces to be in harmony and complement the "subject" or "main idea" of the outfit; not detract or overwhelm the onlooker. The white button-down shirt is a neutral and therefore a classic piece that is acceptable and encouraged for a man's wardrobe. By not buttoning up the first two buttons on the blouse, this makes the wearer appear to be relaxed and, therefore, more casual. It is also not a necessity due to the fact that there is no tie nor bow-tie included.

I selected black, leather, slip-on loafers by Steve Madden. These are a classic style of shoes that require little maintenance other than conditioning of the leather occasionally or merely wiping down the shoes after each use and using tissue paper or a soft paper product to stuff in the shoes to maintain the shape.

I selected a leather belt in black. Make sure that for both day/casual and night/semi-formal or formal looks that a belt is included whether or not you tuck in the shirt. I would suggest a black and/or brown leather belt due to the fact that it is something that is interchangeable between occasions and because both colors are very common or easy to match to outfits. Remember, black goes with (almost) everything!

And, with out further adieu, here's the ensemble altogether.

Night/Semi-Formal or Formal Outfit:

In order to transform this outfit from day/casual to night/semi-formal or formal, I made three simple changes.

1. Tie me up, baby: A tie is a simple and classic way to put a finishing touch on an outfit. There are many options to think about when picking out a tie. However, I have two points that I want to make on ties.
a. 50 shades of gray- Once again, decide where the focus of your outfit is. For my outfit, the blazer is the main event. If your outfit needs a kick to it, don't be afraid to add some bold colors such as blue, red, or green.

b. Size does matter- Decide what size you want your tie to be. Sometimes, a wide tie can be overwhelming to an outfit. Other times, it can be just what the outfit needs. However, the tie has made a transformation and lost its waist-line with skinny ties. Skinny ties are trendy but also a very unique touch to an outfit.

I chose to use a black bow tie to give this a more preppy look.

2. Pick up the slack: Trading the black jeans for black slacks takes this outfit to the next level. Slacks are not only respectable pieces for the office, but even a night out on the town. Due to my model's slender body, a slim-fit is a very flattering choice of cut for slacks as well as dress/button-down shirts. However, a straight-leg cut pant is usually a cut that works for everyone.

3. Blazing through life (But not that kind of blazing!): I picked a piece of clothing that I thought would make a statement: a tweed blazer by Marc Anthony. This blazer is sold as a separate which means that it is not made to match pants, vests, or blouses. But boys, don't let this intimidate you. This doesn't translate into more work for you, the consumer; it means that you can be more creative and experimental with your ensemble. Clothing is a wonderful way to not only show off your personality, but have fun with color and patterns. Something else that is notable is the color palette of the blazer. The color palette featured in the blazer are cream, brown, and black. By having a color palette that features more than one color it allows the owner to mix and match other pieces of clothing that aren't necessarily even the same brand,  and makes it more interesting and unique than the "safe" choice of purchasing a black or gray one.

With the changes made, my model is now outfitted in my next and final look.

By knowing what's in your closet, you can mix and match to create an outfit that's perfect for whatever social or business outing you have planned. Pair that with a unique accessory such as a bold tie, jazzy cufflinks, or a classy watch and you're set!

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Thanks for reading, everyone!

Write me a little something in the comment box below or on my Facebook "like" page: https://www.facebook.com/midorioutfitdujour.

I also have started a "like" page for my modeling here: https://www.facebook.com/MidoriEsmeralda. New post will be up soon, so stay classy!

XOXO Midori

Outfit Du Jour: Just because it zips, doesn't mean it fits.

In my previous blog post, I pinpointed what I believe to be the top "complaints" of dressing professionally. What do I hope to achieve from this particular post? My hopes are that although dressing professionally may not be a necessity at this time or for your particular career path, there may come a time when it may be and the insight I provide within this blog may allow you to view dressing professionally in a new and, most importantly, positive way. In addition, these points are also pertinent to every-day or casual clothing as well.
To my readers: Please don't ignore this post just because you have XY chromosomes. Keep in mind that this particular post is not only applicable to my female readers, but my male ones as well!

1. Is it really possible to have a wardrobe that is high in quality, but doesn't leave a hole in your pockets? It depends on if you shop smart and where you shop! In order to do so, analyze a product before you buy it and decide the amount of use you realistically will be able to get out of it (i.e. purchasing a cute, sensible, and sturdy handbag in a neutral color versus a knock-off, one that is gaudy, or has a "busy" design) as well as its price. If the amount of use is high, and the price is right, it should definitely be considered as an addition to your wardrobe. However, if the amount is low, but the quality is low, you should probably reconsider due to the fact that you'll probably have to invest in yet another bag in a few months time.
Sales racks are probably the best way to steer yourself in the right direction. As tedious as going through sales racks can be, it can be worth your while to spend some time in this section. That way you not only purchase something at a more reasonable price, but you also purchase something that can have style in addition to quality. And try to remind yourself that the sale section isn't the "reject" section. Usually the items are moved to this section to either make way for new merchandise or to transition to another season. Disclaimer: Sometimes you leave empty handed, but other times you might find a real steal! 

Another way you can show off your personal style and not break the bank is by investing in accessories for your outfit (belts, purses, jewelry, etc.).  This gives you the ability to revive an outfit rather than go out and buy a completely new outfit . Keep in mind too that accessories can be responsible for transforming your day-look to night-look with a simple pair of heels versus a clutch for the ladies, or jeans versus slacks for the gentlemen.  

2. Dress for your next job, and dress to impress. When going out, you never know who you might meet. So why take the chance of networking and letting yourself be "forgotten" by wearing a bland and unconfident ensemble of clothing? People may say that you shouldn't judge someone based on their outward appearance, but everyone does it; especially employers. There's a reason why ear plugs and tattoos aren't widely acceptable in the workplace or even in daily life. So don't give someone the chance to short-change you on something that is easily tweaked. 

For both the ladies and gentlemen out there, I would also like to make the point that this section of my blog can easily be applied to dating. When you look confident on the outside, chances are you will feel the same way on the inside and people (the opposite sex or same sex, whatever your preference) will take notice and respond. 

3. Don't play the "should've, would've, could've" game. Don't buy something that SHOULD fit you before hitting an all-you-can-eat buffet, COULD fit once you start using your gym membership, or WOULD fit you if you laid down on your bed and sucked in your stomach to snap your pants on. If you plan on making life changes and moving down one or more dress and/or pant sizes, then I highly advise that you wait before investing any more money in your wardrobe. Chances are if you have changed your lifestyle to change your outward appearance, you've probably had a good amount of mental/internal changes as well. 

Another point I'd like to make is concerning comfort. There's nothing worse than being uncomfortable when interviewing for a job, working, or knowing you're going to be stuck sitting for multiple hours. My advice? Wear something that isn't form-fitting or too small: something that you can do more than stand in. Remember that sitting, walking, and completing tasks that require arm movement are important features all pieces of clothing should allow you to do with ease. Form-fitting clothing may also seem like it hugs all of your curves or that you exude confidence in your body shape, but it usually is less flattering than wearing something that flows and allows you to breathe. The same can be said about clothing that is too big. Try adding some balance to your wardrobe by having a flowing top tucked into a pencil skirt or a slim fit blouse and a straight or wide leg trouser. For men, don't purchase a top, pants, jacket, or vest that are JUST your size or ALMOST your size. Make sure you have a little bit of room so that you can wear outer-wear easily and so you can wear an undershirt as a layer underneath your button-up shirt. This also allows you to have a bit of "wiggle" room for any minute fluctuations in weight. Overall, just because it zips, doesn't mean it fits.

"My Look" Pick of the Week:

What I'm wearing: A tunic blouse with a floral print by American Rag Cie, a wide, woven, black belt (to accentuate and bring attention to the smallest part of my body), a straight leg jean in a dark wash by Michael Kors (which is acceptable for professional attire as well as for casual affairs), metallic, pastel pink pumps by Candies, and a purple and blue purse by Ed Hardy featuring vinyl and satin material. 

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Thanks for reading, everyone!

Write me a little something in the comment box below or on my Facebook "like" page: https://www.facebook.com/midorioutfitdujour.

I also have started a "like" page for my modeling here: https://www.facebook.com/MidoriEsmeralda. New post will be up soon, so stay classy!

XOXO Midori

Professional Attire: Stop Whining!

So I hear complaints about dressing professionally every now and then. But in my honest opinion, I cannot understand why there are complaints. Here's a few of them:

1. Too expensive/More expensive than "everyday" clothing.

2. Too matronly/dowdy/blah.

3. Impossible to find something that not only fits, but is figure flattering. 

Basically, I have a response to all three of these complaints/concerns. Check out my next blog to hear 'em (:

Now on to my first outfit choice for this blog.

When putting together an outfit, I try to keep a few things in mind.

1. Inventory: What the hell is in my closet?

2. Tough Love: Does it fit? Will I ever wear it?

3. Cleanse: No, I won't wear it. Bye! Or... Yes, I will. Yay!

4. Hello, there: Pick an item. Any item. Or maybe THAT item. 

5. Get inspired: Find things that are potential pieces that will go with the chosen item.

6. Vogue: Put it on. Check it out. Pose.

I'll start with my first item I was inspired by:

These are retro-inspired, charcoal gray heels by Lauren Conrad whom I absolutely adore. It's really not a mystery as to why these were so easy to grab from my closet.

Next, I wanted something that would either match or complement my heels. This is what I found:

I found this Ellen Tracy pencil skirt in a charcoal gray. The material is stretchy so it not only is figure flattering, but eliminates the need for a belt. You just simply tuck in your top and you're good to go! It's also a neutral which makes it easy to pair it with practically any color. 

For the top, I wanted a pop of color. Though a pop of color can be achieved easily when you are pairing it with a charcoal gray, I decided to go with a blue top rather than simply a white one:

A tailored fit, light blue Gap shirt served as my finishing touch. Though individually my items may seem "plain" or "predictable" to onlookers, it is clear from trying on the outfit that it is anything but that. Especially after adding this little baby:

A blue, leather handbag by Michael Kors. He is truly one of my all-time favorite designers. I made sure to pick a bag that not only would serve as my "pop of color", but one that I could see myself using on numerous occasions due to its price. However, keep in mind that there is usually a reason for an item to be priced a certain way. (Don't always bow down to all that designers release in their clothing lines, as tempting as it is!)

However, I'm not quite finished. For every outfit, you get to show a little creativity and pizazz with your jewelry. Whether it be a dangly earring, or a statement necklace. Here's what I chose as the finishing touch for my outfit:

I personally wanted to be a little more conservative due to the fact that I was completing my observation hours with middle school students and don't want to be too flashy so I used these Vera Wang, dangling earrings to show off my creative side.

Here's what my outfit looked like altogether:

  

And with the hot weather, rolling up the sleeves (neatly) can make the outfit more casual or a cool alternative to having the sleeves buttoned and down. 

Remember, check in to see my blog next week where I break down the complaints of professional attire and give some tips on how to put together a mind-blowing outfit!

P.S. Got a ton of compliments on my shoes. WINNING!