When we think of denim, we mostly think of only the bottom half (jeans, shorts or a skirt), but this year denim blazers have made their way onto the fashion scene.

Distressed Stetch Denim Blazer

There are a wide variety of styles, designs & colors for denim blazers this season.  Boyfriend cut is a bit of a longer cut, while Stretch denim usually offers a more fitted cut.  One-button blazers are in fashion again, as are other types of vintage-inspired blazers. For classic colours, try classic blue, pink, grey & white, to name a few.

Denim shorts have always made appearances in warmer climates and seasons, but now they are much shorter than before (not surprisingly). Celebrities wear them to show off their legs, but it’s not an easy thing to do if you’re under six feet tall and don’t tone your legs all the time.  If you can pull off the look, go for it, but if you prefer a more demure look, try adding a few inches to the hemline of your denim shorts for an ever-classy look.

Back-Slit Long Denim Skirt

Anna Faris vs Jessica Alba in Short Denim Skirt

Another denim trend that’s always been around & can easily be  made to look casual or dressy is a denim skirt. For more casual occasions, try the sophisticated long denim skirt, or get ready for date-night with a flirtatious shorter skirt.
Not sure which you want? Try a medium-length skirt or long skirt with a slight slit to show off your legs.

Low Rise Bootcut Flare Jeans

A recent fashion revival this season is flare jeans.  When worn with heels, they really accentuate your
rear assets and hips, giving you a feminine hourglass shape.

Light-Coloured Skinny Jeans

Skinny jeans have been around since 2006 & accommodates most body types. If you have a curvier shape, skinny jeans give off the impression of longer legs & a slimmer body (also especially when worn with heels). Wear them with a tunic style shirt to hide any little bulges or just to get a Bohemian-inspired look.

Whatever you choose, denim is a must in any woman’s wardrobe.  Update your denims, and you can wear them with virtually anything, anywhere.

How do you like to wear your denim?

Tell us by commenting below, on Twitter or on our Facebook page.

Julie julie@nowthatslingerie.com

Image sources & references:

Long denim skirt on Yesstyle.com:
http://www.yesstyle.com/en/info.html/pid.1025817303

Antik Low-Rise Bootcut Flare Jeans:

http://www.jeans.com/detail/ANT-wpn22081P.html

Anna Faris and Jessica Alba in denim skirts:
http://skinnyvscurvy.com/jessica-alba/anna-faris-jessica-alba-short-denim-skirt-ladies.html

Skinny Jeans for Curvy Women:

http://www.buzzle.com/articles/skinny-jeans-for-curvy-women.html

The problem is, unlike many of our fore-mothers, women make up a larger percentage of the workforce than ever before. And it’s easy for us to get caught in what we might call the “work clothes rut.” True, women in uniform is nothing new, but even 1940s Sears catalogues encouraged women to spice up their wartime coveralls and to stay fresh. Again, we need to remember to make these steps not for others, but for ourselves.

Targeting individual pieces like these Haider Ackermann pants can allow you to build new exciting outfits from easy-to-wear pieces.

True, a weekend in PJs, lingerie, or nothing at all, can be fantastic and indulgent. But after a tough work-week, it’s important to have things to look forward to. For me, those two magical days off include wearing the most fabulous thing I can toss together from my closet’s contents. I look forward to the days when I can wear absolutely anything I want. The best part? Having your wardrobe dictated 5 days a week means shopping for clothes that can only be worn 2 days a week becomes surprisingly economical–all a girl really needs to do is stick to a few basics.

Any disciple of the capsule wardrobe can tell you that picking up a few classic pieces can go a long way. I’m not saying you should be dressed to the nines to do your weekly grocery shopping on Saturday morning, but remember that clothes really can still be exciting, and inspiration can be found anywhere.

Do you dare to wear this much white? This embellished jacket from Balmain would also look great with a pair of dark jeans and heels with a simple top.

One of my favorite easy to wear chic pieces is the colorful pair of silky harem pants seen in Haider Ackermann Spring 2012. Sure, these pants have actually been around for a while, but they can always be worn with saucy high heels for a night out, or ballet flats for the afore-mentioned grocery store. I’m also infatuated with the rock-star chic tailored jackets in the Balmain line this season. Match an embellished jacket with a pair of dark jeans and some heels for a dinner, a concert, or even bowling. Try something daring for a day of shopping–go completely mod à la Vena Cava Spring/Summer 2012. Dare yourself to wear something you’d never wear, or re-awaken your sleeping style spirit. Don’t forget to have fun just because you’re stuck with a uniform or dress code for the rest of the week.

Try out a completely different look, like this mod-inspired outfit by Vena Cava.

But don’t listen to me. Do it for yourself. You might feel a little uncomfortable breaking out of the rut at first, but when you really work an outfit, everyone else will just be wishing they had your confidence.

Have any tips to break out of a fashion work rut?

Comment here below, e-mail me, or share it with us on our Twitter (@nowthatslingeri) and Facebook page!

Carla-Jean

Photo Credits and Sources

Sears Catalogues during the Second World War in the United States:
JoAnne Olian, Everyday Fashions of the Forties as Pictured in Sears Catalogues (New York: Dover Publications, 1992).

Balmain Spring/Summer 2012:
http://www.style.com/fashionshows/complete/S2012RTW-BALMAIN

Haider Ackermann Spring/Summer 2012:
http://www.style.com/slideshows/2011/fashionshows/S2012RTW/HACKERMAN/RUNWAY/00170m.jpg

Vena Cava Spring/Summer 2012: (also featured image)
http://www.style.com/slideshows/2011/fashionshows/S2012RTW/VCAVA/RUNWAY/009m.jpg

Vena Cava Spring/Summer 2012 one-piece: (also featured image)
http://www.style.com/slideshows/2011/fashionshows/S2012RTW/VCAVA/RUNWAY/001f.jpg 

So, what’s a man to do?

Lingerie is a time-honored gift that men have given to ladies they hold dear, and it’s an undertaking not for the faint of heart. Lingerie is a very personal form of endearment (after all, it is the closest thing to her skin).  Though a daunting task, shopping for the right lingerie for her isn’t as difficult as it may seem. Guys, if lingerie is something you want to get your gal, I can give a few hints to the first-time buyer for female undergarments.  Below I have listed three MUSTS for offering lingerie to your leading lady.

First Lingerie-Giving MUST: Know her right size.

Don’t outright ask her for her measurements, since this will give your intended gift idea away, not to mention make her feel uncomfortable and question why.  Use a little bit of stealth, if you have to, in order to make the right size choice.  Peek through her dresser drawers. Next time your lady is in the shower, or sleeping, or out, that’s your chance to do a little research. Grab a pen and paper and get ready to jot down some notes. Go through tags. Look for labels printed inside her bras or panties – specifically check for items you know she finds comfortable or wears often, as these are likely a more accurate size guide.This step may prove to be the most challenging, but trust me, it’s all much easier from here.

During your reconnaissance mission, take the opportunity to quickly scan her selection of bras, panties, and sleepwear. Get a feel for her style. This will prove useful for the next step.

A long satiny nightie with lace is perfect for any classy femme fatale.

Second Lingerie-Giving MUST: Think of her personal style.

Just like you have a certain taste in underwear, so does your lady. Does she have lots of lace? Is all of her underwear matching sets, or does she have different colors and styles of bras with separate panties? Is she an all-white kind of gal, or does she lean toward bright colors in her panty stash? What type of fabrics does she like? Were they stretchy, natural cotton, or do all of her underthings have a silky feel to them? Most importantly, what kind of woman is she? Does she prefer a simple, sportier approach to lingerie, or have risqué preference for lace and silk?  Is she a more flamboyant gal who loves each fabrics and colors, or even a classy lady with timeless retro sensibilities?

If you want to swing it safe and are overwhelmed by the color, material, and cut choices of lingerie and sleepwear; your best bet is to go with a matching two-piece set, typically in black or white, or her favorite color (if you remember it!).

Third Lingerie-Giving MUST: Opt for Nice or Naughty over Trashy.

If there is a matching set for the bra you want, make sure to get the complete package – bra, panty/thong/hipster, and garter belt. If buying a garter belt, buy stockings to go with them also, so her ensemble is ready-to-wear and she won’t have to go and buy the missing items by herself.   Think about how confident she is (or should be), and make sure your gift can help her feel wonderful about her body and herself.  If she has extra-long legs, try a short chemise or kimono.  (Read 5 Ways To Love Your Lingerie And Your Body for tips on how to make the most of her assets when choosing lingerie.)

A satin kimono will make her feel wrapped in luxury.

You’re offering her the gift of lingerie and the feeling of pampered beauty she deserves, so that you can enjoy seeing her in (and out) of her outfit, but if she doesn`t feel comfortable wearing it because it doesn’t work for her personal style or tastes, she probably won`t put it on again.  The gift is for her, first and foremost.  So, if she wouldn’t be comfortable in a corset, don’t force one on her.

Maybe a sultry chemise (nightgown) or a teddy (like a bodysuit) is more suited to her style, so give her one of those in a fabric she’ll love, like silk or satin or ultra-soft viscose or cotton.  This gift is about her unique style and wonderful personality, and anything you get for her – especially feminine undergarments – should reflect that.

No matter what you choose, presentation matters, so wrap up your present formally and enticingly. Get a big bow or beautiful paper. Make it a game for extra adventure –  if you get different pieces, have her open separate packages or hide them in different rooms.  Whatever you do, make sure you present your gift with a charming smile and a kiss she won’t be able to resist.

Do you have tips for shopping for her? Comment below, leave me an email, follow us on Twitter, or like us on Facebook!

-Jenn

jenn@nowthatslingerie.com

Web Credits-

http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/alicia-vianga/men-lingerie-shopping_b_1190138.html

Photo Credits

All products shown above are available at Now That’s Lingerie 

Midnight Kiss chemise by Blush Lingerie

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=222054-midnight-kiss-satin-and-lace-long-nightgown-blush-lingerie

Catherine sheer lace and mesh teddy by Arianne Lingerie

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=2007-catherine-teddy-arianne-lingerie

Great Expectations Satin and Lace Kimono by Blush Lingerie

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=221555-great-expectations-35-inch-satin-kimono-with-lace-blush-lingerie

Featured Image:

Red Luscious Corset from Blush

 http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=223541-luscious-strapless-semi-sheer-lace-corset-with-garter-attachments-blush-lingerie

Amour Chemise and String Set from Blush

http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=223449—amour-30-inch-chemise-with-demi-bra-and-string-set–blush-lingerie 

Stop Wearing Uncomfortable Undergarments

This Fall in Luxe Wire-Free Bra by Warners offers sultry uplift & comfort.

It sounds so simple, but it’s something that so many women struggle with every day. The best way to feel better about both your body and your lingerie is to get rid of everything that doesn’t fit and replace it with garments that do. If your weight or body shape has changed recently, it’s a great idea to get refitted – some experts say that cup and back size can change often, and you should get fitted at least every six months! (Click here to read How Often Should I Renew My Bras? By Bra Doctor).

Try A New Style

The winter blues are a great excuse to slip into something more stunning, fun, and sexy; but even just changing up the basics of your lingerie wardrobe will add some excitement to your day. Have you always worn briefs? Try an equally comfortable but booty-emphasizing boy short. Always worn cotton bras? See what a lacy bra does for you.  Go for a navy blue or purple bra instead of your traditional black.  Even trading a basic for another basic will spice up your closet and give you different silhouettes to play with.

Sizzle in this curve-flattering Marilyn lace bustier by Arianne!

Emphasize Your Assets

This is the time of year when everyone freaks about their bodies and goes into over-drive trying to get into their best shape before spring (and later bathing suit season) arrives. Because of this, it’s also a good time to remember all the things you love about your body, and find ways of emphasizing the aspects you love with lingerie and clothing. An hourglass shape looks great with a corset, like the Marilyn Lace Bustier Bra by Arianne Lingerie, and the structure hides a tummy. A short robe, like the Decadence Satin Kimono by Blush Lingerie, will highlight long legs, especially in a pair of high heels. Feeling good about your assets will help you shift the focus from any insecurities you may have.

Out with the Old, in with the New

Even changing the color of your basics can be mood-altering.

Are you the kind of person who wears underwear until there are holes in them? Do you keep bras that are extremely stretched out because you might have to wear them on “laundry day”, or own several pairs of old jeans you’re keeping around just in case you decide to paint your bedroom? Honestly, it’s finally time to get rid of them. I myself suffer from holding on to clothing too long – I’ve thought many times “No one can see the holes but me”… until of course I go to the gym. Worn-out clothing doesn’t make you feel good, and keeping items that you’ll never wear again just overwhelms your mind and your closet.  Donate them or trash them, and spend time finding new clothing that you’ll actually enjoy wearing.  Read about how you can recycle your bras to make someone else feel good, too.

Wrap yourself in luxury in this short satin Decadence kimono by Blush.

Spend Time in the Good Stuff

It’s fun to have fancy, exciting lingerie, but it’s less fun if it stuck in the back of the drawer all the time.

Fancy lingerie is often the most expensive, yet often these are the pieces we wear the least (maybe for the sake of preserving them). So spend some time in your best lingerie, either relaxing around the house, going out for a night on the town, or even heading to work. You know you feel great in it, so why not wear it around? It’ll feel like a special, sexy secret that will have you glowing.  And nothing is sexier than confidence.

Share with us by commenting below, on Twitter (@nowthatslingeri) and on our Facebook page!

Rachel
rachelg@nowthatslingerie.com

Image Sources
Fall In Luxe Wire-Free Bra by Warners:
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=2060-fall-in-luxe-wire-free-bra-with-lift-warners-lingerie

Marilyn Lace Bustier by Arianne:
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=5339–marilyn-lace-bustier-with-boning-and-padded-underwire-bra-arianne-lingerie

Super Soft Romance Seamless Bra by Triumph International:
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=1983-super-soft-romance-padded-molded-underwire-bra-triumph-lingerie

Decadence Satin and Lace Kimono by Blush:
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=221255-decadence-satin-kimono-with-lace–blush-lingerie

I’ve brought together an exclusive sneak preview of a few of the styles coming to Now That’s Lingerie.com starting January, including some of my favourite pieces, and highlighted a few major trends to watch for.  Get ready to zing into Spring!

Triumph 

Since 1886 when this company started in a barn as a classic corsetry manufacturer, Triumph continues to supply women everywhere with quality intimates for our wardrobes.  Be it seductive pieces at their finest, or ultra-high-performance undergarments, Triumph offers comfort and above all, quality.

This Spring/Summer 2012, Triumph whisks us away to magical Europe, and we simply can’t get enough of these feminine indulgences, especially all the beautiful laces and florals this collection has to offer!

The pastel palette is always en vogue for this season and on the other end of the color spectrum, sorbet-bright colours make a cheerful comeback as well.  Have you seen how charming they can be with carousels and ice cream parlors?  Check out Louis Vuitton’s 2012 Spring/Summer RTW collection!  To herald this colourful return from the muted neutrals of winter fashions, here are some breezy, feminine styles that Triumph has to offer.  Oh, and don’t forget to send us a postcard from your European holiday!

Want a demurely sophisticated look? This Petites All Over Lace push-up bra (shown here in raspberry pink) is perfect for discovering the Joie de Vivre of Paris!

Curvy ladies alert!  Triumph’s Valisere II collection allows women the freedom to celebrate their curves confidently in luxurious comfort and sophisticated styles! And for those of you curvy ladies who like feminine things,  Valisere II is only too happy to oblige with their Femme Desire collection.

Blush

This season, Blush promises flirtatious, and they definitely deliver. I love the subtle femininity of Blush’s lacy, sheer and silky soft slips and sets – you will notice that lace features predominantly in their new collection –just the way we adore it.  Easy, grown-up glamour with a nod to more sophisticated retro cuts, you’ll find it hard to refrain from playfully winking at yourself in the mirror.

Perhaps my favourite out of their collection, this Sweet Vintage slip is the perfect antidote to the last of your winter blues.  This silky slip is too good to be kept a secret… it wouldn’t hurt to have a little bit of the gorgeous lace embroidered detailing peeking out of your dress!

Another favorite is the Idylle matching push-up bra and thong… it has the flirtiest of the spring trends –lace and exquisite floral detailing– combined into one set.  Love!

Montelle

Another top ten trend for Spring 2012 is matte satin.  Lanvin for instance, showcased beautiful pieces made of the material.  This translates into lingerie styles rather well, because it is such a ‘touch-me’ fabric, with its interesting texture and sheen.  I’m definitely in love with this set by Montelle, Bedside Manner!

With the perfect mix of classic and trendy, feminine and a little naughty, there is much to look forward to with the arrival of balmier weather!

Are you excited for the new collections of intimates for this coming Spring?  Be the first to know by subscribing to the free Now That’s Lingerie newsletter!

Comment here below, connect with us over Twitter (@nowthatslingeri), and on our Facebook page!

Cathie
cathie@nowthatslingerie.com

Image Sources & References

Images provided by Now That’s Lingerie.com, courtesy of Blush Lingerie, Montelle Intimates and Triumph International.

One of the most pronounced uses of colour in this spring’s runways is the use of over-matching: head-to-toe cerulean at Haider Ackermann, yellow and orange at Nanette Lepore. At the same time, this matching of warm and cold tones almost seemed to clash. Blue on turquoise made an appearance at Luca Luca and the aforementioned Haider Ackermann.

Another innovation was simply the variety of rich materials with which these colours were used. Haider Ackermann showed his use of bright colours with rich silks and draped sheers while also incorporating the bold patterns of Spring 2012. Badgley Mischka produced a magnificent collection of brightly coloured garments–reds, oranges, turquoises, blues and pinks.

From Left: Luca Luca Spring/Summer 2012, Haider Ackermann Spring/Summer 2012, Badgley Mischka Spring/Summer 2012, Nanette Lepore Spring/Summer 2012. All images courtesy of Style.Com

Finally, aside from the brilliant pairing of unlikely colours, designers chose to simply bring out entire rainbow’s worth of hues in single collections. Alberta Ferretti showed green, orange, mustard, fuchsia and turquoise in back-to-back exits. Nanette Lepore’s chosen palette was a neon fiesta of flowing garments that also included more subdued coral, purple and blue tones, topped off with brightly coloured makeup. Lepore explained the explosion of colour we’ve seen for spring, stating “[w]e approach color from a new place each season…Everyone in this industry feeds off each other, and the fabric retailers have lately been pushing amazing, sturdy fabrics in these bright colors.”

In the end, the colours used in this spring’s collections compose a veritable laundry list, and the sky is  the limit. Whether it be swooshing skirts of neon or sophisticated rust-toned silk, it must be remembered that colour is nothing new, we just need to see it with brand new eyes, and need to be willing to learn what we’re able to get away with.

Have a question about fashion?

Comment here below, e-mail me, or share it with us on our Twitter (@nowthatslingeri) and Facebook page!

Carla-Jean

carla@nowthatslingerie.com 

Photo Credits and Sources

Luca Luca Spring/Summer 2012
http://www.style.com/slideshows/2011/fashionshows/S2012RTW/LUCALUCA/
Runway/00090m.jpg

Haider Ackermann Spring/Summer 2012:
http://www.style.com/slideshows/2011/fashionshows/S2012RTW/HACKERMAN/
RUNWAY/00180m.jpg

Badgley Miscka Spring/Summer 2012:
http://www.style.com/slideshows/2011/fashionshows/S2012RTW/BMISCHKA/
RUNWAY/00020m.jpg

Nanette Lepore Spring/Summer 2012:
http://www.style.com/slideshows/2011/fashionshows/S2012RTW/NLEPORE
/RUNWAY/00040m.jpg

Nanette Lepore quote, Brittany Adams,
Style.Com review for Nanette Lepore Spring/Summer 2012,
http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2012RTW-NLEPORE.

Featured Image:

Nanette Lepore Turquoise top and pink skirt:

Badgley Miscka turquoise dress (cited above)

Luca Luca Blue top and green pants (cited above)

1738 Push Up Collection Push Up Bra By Triumph Lingerie

Strangely enough, I’ve had an odd experience lately with what we might call the “false advertising” bra. We’ve all (and I’m speaking for the other A-cups in the crowd) tried it–a bra that makes us look like we’ve just spent about ten grand in implants. Is this dressing for the ladies? I hardly think so–having larger breasts does not fall into the “fashionable and all the ladies know it” column. What the other women in the room actually know is that it’s difficult lugging around chest weight, they usually feel sympathy rather than jealousy.

I’ll be honest. I only really bought my “false advertising” bra to make a bridesmaid’s dress fit a little better. I was too lazy and cheap (seriously) to have it tailored around the chest, so I simply looked into buying a (very heavily) padded bra. Even before the wedding, I wore it out to a bar with a strapless dress. All of my girlfriends and I had a good laugh about it–they know how little I have going on in the chest region. We sat at the bar sipping cocktails while I leaned forward to talk to the bartender, revealing the most impressive cleavage of my life. It wasn’t for the other girls in the bar. I had no intention of lassoing any guys. It was for me and my friends.

9015 Prodigy Convertible Push-Up Bra by Montelle

Just like anything else, it’s fun to find those little things that shake up your day and make you feel like a different girl. Even if it is a teeny-tiny white lie!

Do you like to wear bras for a little “false advertising”? Share your thoughts with us!

Comment here below, e-mail me, or share it with us on our Twitter (@nowthatslingeri) and Facebook page!

Carla-Jean
carla@nowthatslingerie.com 

Photo Credits & Sources

Seamless Push-Up Bra by Triumph International
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=1738-push-up-collection-push-up-bra-triumph-lingerie

Prodigy Maximizing Push-Up Bra by Montelle Intimates
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=9015-prodigy-maximizing-push-up-bra-with-convertible-straps-montelle-lingerie

Petites Ribbons & Lace Maximizing Push-Up Bra by Triumph International
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=3037-petites-lace-maximizer-push-up-underwire-bra-triumph-lingerie

View all Push-Up Bras available at Now That’s Lingerie:
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/category.php?cat=a010&page=1

Winter doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style! There are a few things to consider when choosing a winter coat: choose something slimming and bright, warm fabric and something that’s easy to wash. Many of us forsake fashion for comfort, which during these chilly winter months it may seem like your only option. Au contraire! Here are some Winter style tips from some classy celebs & inspired by the runway.

Cool in Cashmere

Light Brown Cashmere Coat by Burberry

This cashmere piece is a warm yet stylish coat (I have the perfect boots to match!) from Burberry Prorsum’s 2012 Winter Collection. This line features many bright-colored coats and longer lengths.

In the Trenches

Jennifer Aniston in Army Green Trench Coat

Big & bulky is out, warm & stylish is in! The classic trench coat is always in style, whether it’s short, or knee, calf or full length.  The knee length is the most common type among all trench coats, since it is easy to wear with different types of pants, leggings and skirts, and it is suitable for shorter women too.  Jennifer Aniston looks classy in an army green trench coat (above) and so can you!

Faux Fur

Vanessa Hudgens Faux Fur Hooded Coat

 A hot trend in coats for the last few seasons seems to be faux-fur hoods; they will keep your ears warm and protect you from the wind, but also look stylish and sophisticated.  Take a peek at Vanessa Hudgens (above) to see how chic you can look in this coat style – even in the absence of snow!

Hollywood Superstar Halle Berry in Dolce & Gabbana belted mohair coat

What winter coat style do you like the most?

Tell us by commenting below, on Twitter (@nowthatslingeri), on our Facebook page, or e-mail me. Julie julie@nowthatslingerie.com

Image sources & references
http://www.topons.com/winter-coats-celebrity-style-army-green-stand-collar-women-cashmere-coat.html http://www.wintercoatsjackets.com/burberry-prorsum-fall-winter-2011-2012/ http://www.zimbio.com/Trench+Coats+Review/articles/m3dbRDQ5Tov/Winter+2012+Trench+Coats+Women http://women-coats.com/moncler-down-jacket-women-cluny-blue-p-163.html http://famewatcher.com/dolce-gabbana-womens-coat-halle-berry-fashion-style.html

Felt Fedora

Fedoras

This is the most widespread of the hat movement this season. I’ve seen literally men, women and children sporting fedoras, and with their ability to dress up any outfit, you’re sure to look put-together and stylish. Fedoras work well with pea coats, trench coats, and other structured jackets, and are a nice touch with a business-casual outfit or dress.  They obviously match well with vintage pieces, but they still look great with even the most modern looks.

Wide Brimmed Hats

Wide-Brimmed Hats on the Runway

Also called Amish hats, these are also in style for men and women. One nice aspect of these hats is that they can accentuate cheekbones depending on where the brim falls on the face. Look for styles where the brim dips just past or level to your eyes (any wider and it’ll flop around too much). This type of hat looks great with more causal outfits, particularly those in the 70s style and Western style we’ve been talking a lot about this fall.

Pillbox Hats

The on-going obsession with the 60s, brought on by the popularity of the TV show Mad Men, manifests itself in the popularity of pillbox hats. They don’t look great on

Pillbox Hat

everybody, but if you can find one that works with your head and shape face, they will really make a statement! Again, retro style clothing make pillbox hats work – anything too modern might be too much of a clash. And, since pillbox hats are associated with style icons like Jackie O, dressier outfits and jackets are a necessity with these hats.

Bowler Hats

Bowler Hat

For the most adventurous, there are bowler hats, sported by the top models of the runway. Again, these are not everyone’s cup of tea, but if you can make it work, it will definitely draw attention! Bowler hats are fairly versatile, able to be paired with causal clothes and some dressier outfits, though more appropriate for parties than work.

What other hats have you been wearing this season? Let us know by commenting below, or tell us on Twitter and our Facebook page!

Rachel
rachelg@nowthatslingerie.com

Photo Credits & Sources:

Featured Image:

Mischa Barton (right):
http://vinchishop.blogspot.com/

Pillbox hat (left):
http://vendors.offbeatbride.com/listing/unveiled-bridal-designs 

Fedora:
http://g-lvl3.nordstromimage.com/imagegallery/store/product/Mini/1/_6567781.jpg

Wide Brim Hat:
http://www.jpost.com/HttpHandlers/ShowImage.ashx?ID=160706

Pillbox hat:
http://s6.thisnext.com/media/250×250/bebe-Veiled-Pillbox-Hat_6B5CDCB8.jpg

Bowler hat:
http://static.becomegorgeous.com/img/arts/2010/Oct/22/3018/bowler_hat1.jpg

Burlesque Fantasy collection by Montelle Intimates, available on Now That's Lingerie

Retro Details Give It Spirit

Burlesque incorporates some of the most adorably sexy styles that have ever been en vogue. Sweet but scandalous pin-up girls and the edgier rockabilly look are the perfect starting point, lending style ideas about everything from hair and makeup to costumes and sensibility. Some items to build an outfit around are garter belts, 50s style pumps, and high-waisted panties. Lace, frills, feathers, and gems also amp up the volume, and anything that unlaces, snaps, or tears off is perfect for burlesque.

Layers are Key

One of the biggest aspects of burlesque is the dancers’ multi-layered costumes. Corsets are often in two or three pieces, and skirts come off to reveal boyshorts (and boyshorts come off to reveal thongs). The practicality of this for a performer means there is more to take off, so the routine can go on longer and further excite the audience. An easy way to incorporate this concept into your lingerie wardrobe is to layer pieces from the same collection or in a similar style over each other. Create a new look by wearing a corset over a bra, or lacy panties under a plain-jane bikini brief. This Carried Away polka-dot and lace push-up bra and the matching hipster with garters from Blush Lingerie seen here can be worn under a sheer camisole or blouse, and the polka dots give it a sexy and playful retro feel.

Carried Away polka-dot and lace push-up bra and hipster with garters by Blush available at Now That's Lingerie

Accessories are important

Accessories are essential in burlesque, to both tantalize viewers and give the performer more to do onstage. Long gloves, stockings, hats and boas add drama to a look, and are often items women already have in their wardrobe. Combining the concepts of layering and accessories is a great idea too – I once saw a performer who wore three pairs of gloves, all different lengths, so that every time she took off one glove, another glove was underneath. She got a huge round of applause each

Vintage-inspired stockings are the perfect touch!

time.

Props draw attention to the body

Many burlesque routines have a theme or story, and props help bring the story to life. Performers use all sort of props, from riding crops to chairs to fans to bows and arrows (for a cupid-themed routine). Accessories like scarves can be used as props too, as they can help accentuate the body. A scarf being pulled over and across an arm, or a riding crop trailing up a leg, will draw the eye to your most flattering features.
Don’t be afraid to get creative! Even the most mundane clothing items and household objects can take on new, enticing life.

Music sets the mood

If you’re ready to go all out and create a routine, the proper music is a must-have. Burlesque routines can be set to

Burlesque Props

all kinds of music, but upbeat, up tempo numbers are the norm. Oldies from crooners like Harry Belafonte or Rosemary Clooney are good choices, and obviously the old standby “The Stripper” works too. Even if dancing isn’t your thing, even a little movement to the right music does a lot to excite!

Confidence makes it burlesque!

One of the reasons why I love burlesque is how inclusive the community is. As an avid fan, I’ve seen skinny women, larger women, young women, older women, men and men dressed as women all performing burlesque in shows together. Each and every one gets cheers, catcalls, and standing ovations, not because they have perfect bodies, but because they flaunt their looks with confidence. Your shape, size, gender and sexual orientation doesn’t matter as long as you rock it out with your head held high and a smile on your face. This is the greatest lesson women can take from the world of burlesque. Don’t hide or be ashamed of any part of your body. Confidence looks good on everyone!

Burlesque star Dita Don Teese and Models

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Rachel
rachelg@nowthatslingerie.com

Photo Credits & Sources:

Burlesque Fantasy collection by Montelle Intimates:
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/collection.php?collection=burlesque%20fantasy&brand=montelle-lingerie

Carried Away polka-dot collection by Blush:
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/collection.php?collection=carried%20away&brand=blush-lingerie

Carried Away polka-dot push-up bra by Blush:
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=222604-carried-away-satin-polka-dot-push-up-bra-with-lace-blush-lingerie

Carried Away polka-dot hipster with garters by Blush:
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=222625-carried-away-satin-polka-dot-hipster-bra-with-garter-straps-blush-lingerie

Garter Belts on Now That’s Lingerie:
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/category.php?cat=garter-belts-and-garters

Stockings:
http://www.theburlesqueboutique.co.uk/ekmps/shops/wolfwhistle/images/image4.jpg

Props:
http://www.twirl.ie/prestashop/img/p/10-51-large.jpg

Dita Von Teese & models:
http://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/642787/Dita-strips-for-Wonderbra-pics-vid