Okay, so I took a bit of a break. I was worried that I had lost all of my inspiration to share thoughts and ideas on fashion via blogging. However, I have returned and am ready to write and work it. (Snap, snap.)
Part of the reason I decided to pick blogging back up was reading another person's blog on fashion. Though theirs centered on recycled fashion (thrift shopping, then sewing and tearing the outfit apart until it resembles something they find to be trendy), I liked the idea that they had taken one thing and turned it into something else that suited them more. Therefore, I am going to dedicate this blog post to the power of an open mind as well as incorporating accessories into an outfit.
When you meet someone for the first time, you can usually size them up in a matter of minutes- maybe even seconds. However, if you take the time and have an open mind, you could find that you are compatible and have many common interests. On the other hand, if you attempt to meet someone with a closed mind, you may not be giving the person a chance which could prevent you from forming a friendship. The same can be applied to fashion: you can glance through a rack in seconds and determine whether you could commit to buying an item. However, judging an item so quickly can make you miss out on some great pieces.
What are some reasons that could make you say "no way" to an item?
1. Color-me-mine: I'm the biggest believer in the fact that my skin tone clashes with orange and yellow. Therefore, I tend to pass up anything that comes in either color. However, I try to look at the item and see if there's anything I like about it. If I decide that there is, I peruse the racks to see if it comes in another color.
2. Cut to the chase: Another complaint is in the cut of the piece. The cut of an outfit can bring out the best or worst in you. By knowing what your body type is and what plays it up, you can taper your search more towards things that are more flattering. However, some cuts can be deceiving. (Keep reading!)
3. Breaking out from the pattern: Finally, pattern can be another deal-breaker. Some pieces feature patterns that use a pallet of colors that are in harmony whereas some have no rhyme or reason. Others have patterns that are wild or dated. What's a girl/boy to do?
Well, what's the answer to the majority of problems when it comes to cut or patterns in an item or an outfit that you think may be beyond repair? Accessories.
Of the accessories, I'd like to highlight the power of belts. So, why do we like them?
Ladies....
1. They're fabulous. (Duh.)
2. They can serve as a pop of color to an outfit that may be gasping for some creative air.
3. They can change the shape/cut of almost any outfit.
4. They're cost efficient since you can use them again and again- especially if you stick to belts in solid and/or neutral colors.
Gentleman...
1. They're fabulous. (Did you really expect anything else for the first point?)
2. They can transform your outfit from casual to formal.
3. They're necessary for every outfit. (Please, boys. Just because your shirt isn't tucked in doesn't mean I don't know the truth.)
4. As crazy as it may sound, there isn't just one kind of belt buckle or style of belts so be creative! (You can also find belts that are reversible or feature some sort of stitching to add a unique and modern twist.)
5. They're cost efficient since you can use them again and again- especially if you stick to belts in solid and/or neutral colors.
(Belts by Marc Anthony, Kohls. Notice the belt buckle on the left and the stitching on the right?)
So ladies, here's a few examples of the power of belts.
1. Original belt. (Cute, but no distinct color selected in ensemble.)
2. One of the belts in my collection. (Conveys a more edgy, but casual look. Emphasizes the grey in the dress. This belt also clearly defines a waist in the outfit and emphasizes the narrowest part of the body.)
My verdict? A skinny belt or a wide belt can be interchanged to convey a different mood or feel to the outfit. Though a dress, top, pants, skirt, etc. may come with a belt, you do not have to be beholden to their selection. Instead, have a multitude of belts that allow you to be creative and tailor the outfit to your occasion.
Here's another example of the power of belts with this dress that appears to look like a floral printed potato sack.
This dress does NOTHING for my figure nor anyone's figure. For those individuals that believe they can hide their weight behind a tunic or square-shaped dress, you are mistaken- this makes you appear larger than you are! Instead, try incorporating a belt.
Why in the world did I still buy this? By using a a skinny, aqua-colored, glitter belt, I was able to bring out the blue in the ensemble as well as define a waistline. Though the pictures on here suck (Anyone want to be my photographer?), you can see that the belt is able to make something that you thought was horrific, into something wonderful.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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
