If you really want to spice things up and are looking for that perfect Valentine’s day outfit, search no further. This outfit is all kinds of sexy but not overdone. To start the look is the Keri semi-sheer tunic top by Arianne. I love the way this sheer blouse falls on the body, so pretty and flirty! You might think that this top is very PG and where’s the sex appeal? But wait! Pair this with the Sinfully Yours semi-sheer lace demi teddy by Blush lingerie in red. Wearing a sheer flowy blouse with a fitted red lacy teddy underneath will literally keep your date drooling and wanting more. For bottoms, I’m pairing this style with this gorgeous leather skirt with zippers from Topshop. It’s very in fashion to wear loose tops and fitted bottoms. Works out because you can eat more without exposing your food baby (hopefully, saving dessert for later) but still showing off those great legs. Not to mention, black is extremely flattering and goes with everything. Depending on your style, you can either tuck the top into the skirt or leave the blouse loose. I personally prefer it tucked in; I love the flared shape it creates with the skirt above the belly button. If you’re trying to camouflage your tummy area then wear the shirt on top. You can easily match this outfit with a blazer, cardigan or pashmina scarf. 

 Now onto accessories, for jewelry I decided to keep it classy and simple with a Tiffany & co. silver charm bracelet and Pave Pear white and silver earrings. They add just the perfect amount of class to this risqué outfit! For shoes I went for these gorgeous silver Maggie pumps by Christian Louboutin. I swear that man can do no wrong when it comes to creating shoes. The different shades of gray and silver play off the gray in the top. Lastly, for the purse I chose a chic quilted bag with a long chain. The purse has to be black to go along with the skirt. 

 Since your lingerie is red and can be seen, try going for a bold red lip. Not sure how long the lipstick will stay on for, but that’s another story for another day. Be confident in your sexy outfit and have fun! 

This outfit is a stunner. When your date sees you, expect a jaw-dropping expression! Happy Valentine’s Day everyone! 

What are your thoughts on this outfit? Share your style tips with us!

Comment below, or tell us on our Facebook Page, Twitter or Pinterest!

Felicia

Felicia@nowthatslingerie.com

Sources/References:

9300 Keri Semi-Sheer Tunic Top with Dolman Sleeves by Arianne: http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=9300-Keri–Semi-Sheer-Tunic-Top-with-Dolman-Sleeves-Arianne

Black Zip Detail Mini Skirt: http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=0&viewAllFlag=&catalogId=33057&storeId=12556&productId=6144932&langId=-1&categoryId=&searchTerm=skirts&pageSize=200&refinements=Colour%7B1%7D~[black]

226451 Sinfully Yours Semi-Sheer Lace Demi Teddy by Blush Lingerie: http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=226451-Sinfully-Yours–Semi-Sheer-Lace-Demi-Teddy-Blush-Lingerie&category=&itemtype=&size=&brand=Blush%20Lingerie&color

Christian Louboutin Maggie Pumps: http://fashionbombdaily.com/2012/02/10/who-wore-it-better-serena-williams-vs-alesha-dixon-in-christian-louboutin-maggie-pumps/

American Chic Black Quilted Chain Bag: http://intheircloset.com/video-review-american-chic-black-quilted-chain-bag

Tiffany’s Bracelet: http://www.tiffany.ca/Shopping/CategoryBrowse.aspx?cid=287458&mcat=148204#p+23-n+12-cg+viewPaged-c+287458-s+5-r+-t+-ri+-ni+1-x+-pu+-f+

Classique Earrings – Pave Pear Post – White Drusy Silver :http://www.anzie.com/classique-earrings-pave-pear-post-white-drusy-silver-p-2234.html

No matter where you live, we at Now That’s Lingerie would like to present you with a special offer for the upcoming holiday –something we’re sure you’ll be thankful for (especially since it’s a great time to get a head start on purchasing your holiday gifts)!

From November 22^nd – 26^th, get FREE SHIPPING on all orders $49 and up, PLUS $10 off orders $100-$199.99 | $30 off orders $200 – $299.99 | $50 off orders $300 and up! Exclusively on Now That’s Lingerie.com! Just use promo code THANKSNTL2012 at checkout to save!

To help guide your shopping, here are a few of our must-have picks from the cornucopia of styles and products we’re drooling over this season, that may have you reaching for your posh little wallet!

Show Girl Tease Me Balcony Bra — Curvy Kate

We love Curvy Kate, and we know you will too!  This ‘Tease Me’ matching bra and panty by Curvy Kate has it all: scalloped lace, ribbons, and a sheer mesh overlay.  The bright cherry-red colour echoes the vibrant Fall foliage –an absolute eye-catcher!  Available from D to K cups, this is perfect for us girls who have big things going on.

Harlow Lined Sleeveless Dress by Donna

This Harlow dress by Montreal Designer, Donna, is my personal favourite, and I couldn’t be prouder of it if I had made it myself.  This will be your go-to frock for all the holiday parties!  The sheer neckline and sweetheart bustier neckline complement each other to provide the perfect amount of modesty and peek-a-boo.  With a textured figure-flattering shape and a beautiful sheen… this LBD is anything but boring, much like Jean Harlow, that 1930’s bombshell!

Romantic Flower Jacquard Bra & brief set by Valisere Lingerie

Lace has enjoyed a continued popularity with the fashion elite this year, and who can blame them?  The feminine fabric’s allure of this Romantic Flower bra and matching bikini brief by Valisere are not to be dismissed.  The intricate leaf and lace details on both bra and brief are stunningly evocative of the autumn season.

Untamed Beauty Absolute Demi Leopard Print T-Shirt Bra by Montelle Lingerie

Who doesn’t love a demi cup bra?  This Untamed Beauty Absolute t-shirt bra by Montelle is fantastic to wear with dresses and tops that have more plunging necklines, while still offering support and a lovely shape.  This bra is oh-so-fierce and timeless (when does a leopard print ever go out of style?  Never!)  Pair this bra with the matching boyleg, a deep red lip color and a sprinkle of sass.  You can bet your partner will be in awe of you, much like a turkey would be of a… box of Stove Top stuffing mix.

Elyse Seamless Microfiber Dress Slip With Adjustable Straps by Naturana Lingerie

This must-have dress slip by Naturana is incredibly soft and sleek and can be worn under nearly any dress to help you achieve that seamless look when you don your cozy sweater dresses or as an opaque layer under semi-sheer lacy outfits.

Bra Saver Bag by Fashion Essentials

And this, ladies… is the Fountain of Youth for your bra!!  If you add only one thing to your shopping bag during your visit Now That’s Lingerie, you should make it this Bra Saver mesh wash bag by Fashion Essentials!  Prolong the lives of all the beautiful bras in your collection (and any future additions) by protecting them from snags, pulls, pilling, underwire pop-out, and cups getting squished and deformed! I have one of these at home and it truly is a life (ok, bra) saver! Also, it’s a great stocking stuffer or gift idea for any woman!

Don’t wait! Click here to shop our Thanksgiving Sale to get Free Shipping and up to $50 off your order!

What’s on your splurge list this Thanksgiving?  Share your thoughts with us by commenting here, or tell us on Facebook or Twitter… and have a Happy Thanksgiving!!

–Cathie
cathie@nowthatslingerie.com

Credits, Sources & References:

*All styles shown here are available at Now That’s Lingerie.com.*

Sg2001 Showgirl Tease Me Balcony Bra by Curvy Kate:
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=sg2001-tease-me-balcony-bra-curvy-kate&category=&itemtype=1&size=&brand=Curvy%20Kate&color=

13784 Harlow Lined Sleeveless Dress by Donna:
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=13784-harlow-lined-sleeveless-dress–donna&category=&itemtype=7&size=&brand=donna&color

Romantic Flower Jacquard Bra and Brief by Valisere Lingerie:
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=7562-Romantic-Flower-bra-Triumph-Lingerie & http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=462-romantic-flower-brief-triumph-lingerie&category=b005&itemtype=3&size=&brand=valisere%20lingerie&color=

9120 Untamed Beauty Absolute Demi Leopard Print T-Shirt Bra by Montelle Lingerie:  http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=9120–untamed-beauty-absolute-demi-leopard-print-t-shirt-bra-montelle-lingerie&category=demi-cup-bras&itemtype=1&size=&brand=montelle%20lingerie&color=

83945 Elyse Seamless Microfiber Dress Slip With Adjustable Straps by Naturana Lingerie:  http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=83945-elyse-seamless-microfiber-dress-slip-with-adjustable-straps-naturana-lingerie&category=&itemtype=4&size=&brand=&color=

Fe016 Bra Saver Bag by Fashion Essentials:
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=fe016-bra-saver-bag-fashion-essentials&category=wash-and-care-solutions&itemtype=&size=&brand=&color=

Corsets have figured in women’s wardrobe for centuries, under many different names.  From ‘stays’, to the ‘payre de bodies’ of Elizabethan days and down to its most notorious 18^th – 19^th century incarnations, these garments have remained hidden while helping to achieve a trim and shapely figure.  While designed to give women the coveted ‘hourglass figure’, the pinnacle of aesthetic beauty in those days, these accessories were also notorious for discomfort, restricted movement and breathing.  Did you know that it was once believed that shallow breathing was attractive to men?  No wonder fainting was a common occurrence in those days!

Lacy Plus-Size Corset With Lace-Up Back by Grenier Lingerie

It’s difficult to get past all the age-old stereotypes, but when they are not used to achieve an extreme figure a la Cathie Jung, corsets can improve posture, support the back, and help you appear trimmer.  Though the corset has fallen out of favor at times, most notably during the Regency era and the Roaring Twenties, stylish lingerie is ever a must in the fashion world.  And with the underwear as outerwear trend, expect a sassy ‘Hello!’ and a wink from these shapely beauties, as they unabashedly make a public debut!

Lace-Up Back Corset With Black Lace And Stitching by Grenier Lingerie

These days, we celebrate all shapes and sizes, and with that mentality, corsets are more ‘hug’ than ‘squeeze’.

When purchasing or wearing these boudoir beauties, keep in mind:

• Corsets should fit snugly, yet respect our varying curves.  They can and should be comfy!
• These garments are both playful and sexy.  Wear them with a matching attitude!
• Corsets can give your bosom a lift just as well as any push-up bra –with a little extra elegance.
• There’s a corset for any mood and look you want to convey –from Victorian vixen to pin-up starlet!

(Left) Etoile corset & thong, (Center) After Dark strapless corset and thong, (Right) Enchanted Bloom push-up corset and thong, all by Blush, available at Now That’s Lingerie

Just like the little black dress, it seems the corset has the staying power to be not only a tool for fashion, but a timeless classic as well.  Look beautiful, feel beautiful, and carry yourself with confidence.  Not only are we beautiful inside and out, our clothes are, too!

“I think lingerie plays a big part in how you carry yourself.” –Nicole Richie

Do you think corsets have a role in the lingerie as outerwear trend?

–Cathie
cathie@nowthatslingerie.com

Credits, Sources & References:

Lacy Plus-Size Corset With Lace-Up Back by Grenier Lingerie:  http://nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=6132-lacy-plus-size-corset-with-lace-up-back-grenier-lingerie&category=Corsets&itemtype=&size=&brand=&color=

Lace-Up Back Corset With Black Lace And Stitching by Grenier Lingerie:  http://nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=6166-lace-up-back-corset-with-black-lace-and-stitching-grenier-lingerie&category=Corsets&itemtype=&size=&brand=&color=

6122 Lacy Red corset with lace-up back (shown in featured image): http://nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=6122-lacy-corset-with-lace-up-back-grenier-lingerie 

After Dark Strapless Pinstriped Corset by Blush Lingerie, at Now That’s Lingerie:
http://nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=0223841-after-dark-strapless-pinstriped-corset-with-embroidery–blush-lingerie&category=Corsets&itemtype=&size=&brand=blush%20lingerie&color=

Etoile Lacy Strapless Corset by Blush, at Now That’s Lingerie:
http://nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=0225141-etoile-strapless-lacy-corset-with-removable-cookies-blush-lingerie&category=Corsets&itemtype=&size=&brand=blush%20lingerie&color=

Enchanted Bloom Strapless Embroidered Corset by Blush, at Now That’s Lingerie:
http://nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=224941-enchanted-bloom-embroidered-strapless-corset–blush-lingerie&category=Corsets&itemtype=&size=&brand=blush%20lingerie&color=

Nicole Richie quote:
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/lingerie.html

Lillian Day quote:  http://en.thinkexist.com/quotation/a_lady_is_one_who_never_shows_her_underwear/177414.html

Just the other day, I was sitting on a picnic bench, enjoying the sun, until I was rudely interrupted by a braless woman walking by. After controlling my immediate reaction of horror, I took a closer look. Her chest was staring at me, in a not-so-flattering way. She bounced and pointed right by me.

I asked myself, “did she do that on purpose or does she genuinely not care?” I don’t believe that any woman in this entire world, with average sized breasts, can feel sincerely comfortable out on a hot day, not wearing a bra. I couldn’t help asking myself why. This got me thinking, “why do some women do this?” Do they enjoy the feeling or being ‘free,’ or do they just not know how to find a well fitted and comfortable bra? I think it’s the latter.

Christina Ricci Braless

Being a busty girl myself, I have NEVER felt comfortable without a bra, except for maybe when I was a child and had no boobs. Even when I go to bed, I have to stuff something in the middle while I lie on my side, to feel like they’re not flopping together. I’ve always been jealous of women that can get away with not wearing a bra, but do they really enjoy the bare feeling?

According to Redbook magazine, the average woman owns 9 bras. By now, it is common knowledge to most that more than 80% of women are wearing the wrong bras or bra size. Is this why women decide to go braless, because they just give up?

Between the pinching and the pulling and drowning in your bra, discomfort comes in many forms. After years of wearing badly/poorly fitted bras, my life changed after getting a bra fitting by NTL’s Bra Doctor®, Celine. No Victoria’s Secret nonsense. I personally believe that if every single woman in the world (cup size AAA-ZZZ) had a comfortable fitting bra, no one would ever go braless in public again.

Braless Beauty?

I’ve given you my opinion, and I want to hear from you!

Tell us: Do you go braless, and why or why not?

E-mail me, comment here below, and tell us on Facebook and Twitter!

Felicia

Felicia@nowthatslingerie.com

Sources:

http://www.redbookmag.com/beauty-fashion/tips-advice/fun-bra-facts#slide-1

http://nowthatslingerie.com/en/More-Than-8-out-of-10-Women-Wear-the-Wrong-Bra-Size.php

http://stupidcelebrities.net/wp-content/old_pictures/lindsay-lohan-braless-candids-12.jpg

http://cdn02.cdn.egotastic.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/12/miley-cyrus-shopping-at-whole-foods-braless-06-435×580.jpg

http://www.makeushot.com/wp-content/uploads/talking-uma-thurman-braless-cleave-the-women-of-discovery-gala1-299×450.jpg

http://www.celebridoodle.com/.a/6a00e5536b2ba988330120a6574ecb970b-500wi

5. Lifting Hide-A-Strap – Make your favorite bras tank-top-friendly in seconds!  Just gather your straps and secure them with this durable plastic figure-eight piece.  Gives your breasts a natural boost in any bra and helps prevent falling bra straps.

4. Body Tape - The quick multi-purpose fix for fashion emergencies, this dual-sided adhesive sticks to anything without irritating or leaving marks on your skin or clothing.  Ideal for plunging necklines or backlines, strapless wear, to seal the space between gapping buttons in your tops, and to quickly alter pant, skirt or dress hems.

3. Shoulder Cushions – Eliminate discomfort from indentation or marks  from your bra straps with these slim and comfortable silicone shoulder cushions.  Ideal for fuller-figured women to help increase support and ease pressure on your neck, shoulders and back.  Also helps prevent your bra straps from slipping down your shoulders.

2.  Bra Back Extenders – Easily add an extra one to three inches to your bra back band for a more precise, comfortable fit.  Ideal for when your bra cups fit but your back feels snug.  Just hook onto your back band and adjust as needed, no sewing necessary! Available in 1 hook, 2 hook, 2 hook Special European, 3 hook and 4 hook widths.

1. Magic Sponge – This aptly-named dual-sided clothing sponge by Forever New Fashion Essentials instantly removes marks on your clothes caused by deoderant, cosmetic powder, dust and more.  Flexible and compact to fit in even the smallest purse, so never leave home without it!

Need help finding the right bra accessories for you? Just ask me!

Celine, your Bra Doctor

bradoctor@nowthatslingerie.com

Tips For the Ladies:

Perfect for the ‘better half’! The gorgeous Charlotte Balconet Retro Bra by Affinitas Parfait – up to a size G!

 1. Realize that this is a Joint Operation.  You may be the Shopping General, but an unhappy trooper is an unwilling one –and vice versa.  Even if he insists he wants to come, love him for being willing to come with you, but realize that he may not really want to go shopping, or at least, not for a long period of time.  Step into his shoes:  browsing is not the goal-oriented masculine way of accomplishing things.  Most men don’t usually ‘shop’, they seek out and then ‘buy’ the items they need.  So be ready with a realistic shopping strategy to minimize the time spent in each store.  And if you say you’ll only be an hour, remember your goal and stick to it.  Men do notice when you start wandering around ‘just browsing’ (they call it ‘aimlessly’) and may become petulant and frustrated.

2. Remember the ‘KISS’ rule: Keep it Simple, Sweetie.  Don’t ask complicated questions, keep it as brief as possible, let him know you’re grateful for his support with hugs and kisses, and make sure to bring along a ‘manly’ distraction, such as an iTouch with a few games to pass the time –helpful for when you’re unwilling to rush through fittings, and you shouldn’t!  There’s nothing more disappointing than spending half a day rushing through shopping, only to end up with ill-fitting items that need to be returned or exchanged.

3. Take turns.  This is something my boyfriend says any man will appreciate, if he gets the chance to go to ‘his’ stores, between or after yours.  Show your gratitude by tagging along cheerfully to check out the electronics, tools, sports or entertainment stores that your man frequents.  He will notice your willingness to spend time on things that interest him, and will be much more likely to happily reciprocate.  Love’s a two-way street, as they say!

Tips for the Gents:

This Bridal Padded Satin Bustier by Affinitas Intimates is a perfect reward for good behavior.

1. Be supportive.  Shopping can be an enjoyable experience with the right attitude, and when it comes to lingerie – the rewards are worth the wait!

2. When your lady asks your opinion, be honest but kind.  Saying yes simply to get out of shopping as fast as you can won’t do you any favors in the long run, especially when you see her in a set you really weren’t keen on or that didn’t fit her well.

3. Keep yourself occupied, and take frequent breaks.  Now’s the perfect time to catch up the news on your mobile, or checking out a new magazine you got from one of the shops.

4. It’s OK to step inside a lingerie store –really! Your girl will adore you for your courage.  Plus, you may think there’s nothing manly in being surrounded by mounds of ribbons and lace, but trust us.  Your leading lady will just think of how lucky she is to have a man who will spend time with us, no matter where it takes them!

Shopping together should be fun, exciting and a win-win situation for all involved.  Being respectful and mindful of each other’s feelings will ensure that there are no sour attitudes later.  And it will always help to remember that the next time you want to do something that reflects your more “manly” personal tastes, she may be more willing to reciprocate.

This Vicky Lace Chemise by Arianne is perfectly flirty and comfy to slip into at the end of a day of shopping.

What are your tips for shopping as a couple? Tell us by commenting here below, on Twitter and on our Facebook page!

Cathie
cathie@nowthatslingerie.com

Image sources & references

Charlotte Retro Bra by Affinitas Parfait
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=6931-charlotte-balconet-retro-bra–affinitas-parfait

357 Bridal Padded Satin Bustier by Affinitas Intimates
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=357-bridal-satin-and-lace-padded-bustier-affinitas-intimates

Vicky Lined Lace Chemise by Arianne Lingerie
http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=8125-vicky-lined-lacy-nightgown-arianne-lingerie

Featured Images taken from:
http://www.womanhonorthyself.com/?p=17737

http://www.galsguidetomma.com/2011/11/29/2588984/the-fighter-wed-most-like-to-go-shopping-with-us

Typical pin-up girl

Form-Flattering Clothing

Clothing in the 40s reflected and accentuated the womanly figure, drawing attention to the shoulders and bust, small waists, and wider hips. Although women weren’t wearing corsets every day, they were

This vintage-style Grenier Bra is a great base for the pin-up look.

popular in pin-up fashion, along with high-waisted panties and other shape-hugging undergarments. You can create the base of your pin-up look with the Vintage Shapewear Bra By Grenier Lingerie and matching high-rise panty. Throw a vintage-style dress on top and you’re good to go. For something a little more hard-edged, build a look with the  Mitsou Leopard-Print Camisole Corset by Arianne Lingerie. Add a pencil skirt and you’re on your way to

This Leopard-Print Cami is perfect for a more edgy pin-up girl.

a 50s rockabilly look!

Retro-Style Stockings

During WWII, stockings were rationed as part of the war effort, and some women even resorted to drawing lines down the backs of their legs to look like tights! This might be one of the reasons stockings and garters are particularly important in pin-up fashion. There’s also the added bonus that a simple pull of the skirt can reveal a flirty peek at those undergarments (often the case in the pin-up world). Stockings with detail on the thigh or garters and paired with a skirt with a hemline that goes just below the tops of the stockings will add a thrill to your outfit – and an eyebrow-raising tease for anyone who looks.

Era-Specific Makeup

40s makeup had a very precise look, but luckily it’s easy to remember and achieve. Eye makeup was light, usually only on the top lid, finishing with mascara and eyeliner. Lips were very dark, generally dark red, but sometimes mauve as

Dita Von Teese's makeup fits the pin-up style

well. Nails were also bright red. Blush was natural-hued and lightly applied. So all you really need to invest in to achieve this look is the right shade of red lipstick.  See? It’s easy!

40s Hairstyle

Curls were huge during this time period – pin curls, finger waves and ringlets were all the rage, and hair was most always shoulder-length or longer. This is probably the biggest challenge of the pin-up look, with curls being very defined and tight (sometimes problematic for the curly-haired folks) and a lack of styles for short or straight hair (a BIG issue). Luckily

Hair feathers and fascinators are great for straight, short hair

though, retro trends in hats, fascinators, and feathered headbands can help out women who don’t want to bother with curling their hair. Add a vintage-style fascinator or feather clip, and you’ll achieve the look without the extra effort or hairspray.

Touches of Innocence

The most important element of the pin-up look is the touch of innocence. Pin-ups illustrations and photos have a humorous or innocent side, incorporating an “uh oh” moment or the girl’s unawareness into the story of the photo. This gives pin-ups a scandalous but energetic side. Sweet, even girlish details will greatly enhance your look. For example, you can pair an animal print camisole with a pretty white sweater to play up the feminine side. This spirit is what makes pin-up style multi-dimensional and

Her lack of awareness makes this pin-up illustration fun!

appealing, so get creative and have fun with it!

Do you have tips to looking pin-up ready?

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

Rachel
rachelg@nowthatslingerie.com

Photo credits and sources

Grenier Vintage Full Figure Lace Underwire Bra: http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=8413-grenier-vintage-lace-grenier-bra

Mitsou Animal-Print Cami Top by Arianne: http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=5256-mitsou-leopard-print-top-with-lace-arianne-lingerie

Pin-Up Girl with Ink: http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_5lZ4y3aOozA/TAiRx32_iBI/AAAAAAAADIQ/z1DepMHsSNc/s1600/pin-up-girl-with-inkstains-c101005.jpg

Typically Pin Up Girl:
http://www.thepinupgirldiet.blogspot.com/

Dita Von Teese Makeup:
http://theplanetmakeup.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/JTM-054542.jpg

Feather clip:
http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.279017745.jpg

Featured Image:
http://www.free-extras.com/images/vintage_pinup_girl-1602.htm

http://www.julies40sproject.blogspot.com/

Research and Sources:

http://www.wikihow.com/Dress-in-American-1940s-Fashion

http://www.dollhousebettie.com/index.php?option=com_myblog&Itemid=0&lang=en&show=309

Layer, Layer, Layer

Marlene Birger chunky knit wool cardigan

One tip for keeping this style current is to layer them with other clothing. This is easy with sweater jackets, cardigans, and wraps, but it’s important with cropped and regular length sweaters too. The best part of layering is that it allows you to dress up or down an outfit – a basic cami under a long cardigan is perfect for daytime, while the same cardigan over a lacy top or even a corset makes a bolder statement for evening. Just be sure to layer carefully – since the chunky sweater will add bulk to the body, you’ll want the rest of the outfit to be tighter-fitted.

Longer is better!

Chunky sweaters of all lengths are in right now, but the most body-flattering ones are on the longer side.  Cardigans and sweater dresses that extend past the bum are dramatic and super comfortable. Again, remember the rest of the outfit should be tighter, so pair the sweater with skinny jeans or leggings, not flared pants. Another popular shape for chunky sweaters is a crop top, again paired with tighter-fitting camis underneath. But be forewarned:  this is a style that highlights the tummy area.

Details – Keep it Modern 

Chunky Sleeveless Knitted Poncho by M Missoni

The main concern with wearing a chunky sweater is looking like a grandma. To avoid this, make sure your sweater has a modern detail that makes it stand out from the back-of-the-closet pack. This detail could be a cutting edge pattern, like the one seen on the M Missoni Knitted Sweater shown below, or a style that follows another trend, like the Western-inspired Anninas chunky-knit wool cardigan, or utilizing the sweater in a new way, like the Marc Jacobs Sweater Skirt.

Accessorize with Caution

Chunky sweaters are the main focus of an outfit, so don’t over accessorize. A simple pair of earrings goes a lot farther with this look than a huge necklace or dangling bracelet. You’ll have a little more

Cable Sweater Skirt from Marc Jacobs

leeway with footwear, but tall, streamlined boots look the best and will keep your legs warm! Or, go in the other direction and wear a dainty pair of heels to elongate your legs and balance out the thickness of the sweater.

Have any other tips for wearing chunky sweaters? Share your ideas below, tell us on Twitter or on our Facebook page, or e-mail me!

Rachel
rachelg@nowthatslingerie.com

Image references & sources

Anninas Chunky-Knit Cardigan:
http://cache.net-a-porter.com/images/products/175014/175014_ou_l.jpg

M Missoni  Knitted Sweater:
http://www.polyvore.com/missoni_purple_chunky_knitted_sleeveless/thing?id=43703900

Marc Jacobs Sweater Skirt:
http://images.bloomingdales.com/is/image/BLM/products/8/optimized/1225338_fpx.tif?wid=325&qlt=90,0&layer=comp&op_sharpen=0&resMode=sharp2&op_usm=0.7,1.0,0.5,0&fmt=jpeg

Featured Image Sources:

Left:
http://www.gotoglamourgirl.com/?p=9540

Center:
http://www.the949styleguide.com/2009/10/warm-and-chunky-sweaters.html

Right:
http://www.dressrail.com/v-cowl-neck-chunky-sweater-1200.html

 There are countless instances in which younger generations (including myself) find it excruciatingly difficult to find a garment with a professional aesthetic for a job interview or for our careers. Most business attire concludes to make us look a generation older than we actually are. Honestly, I wouldn’t mind looking a couple years past my age, but I want to feel youthful at the same time. Riccardo Tisci has indeed done a fine job to create a variety of blazers that have some crisp twists to the silhouette than a traditional blazer would give. Here are some points that I extracted from these Spring 2012 Givenchy blazers to elaborate more:

1. In all these looks, the lowered points on the extended lapels create a more relaxed feel than the conventional lapels with the points at chest level. For traditional blazers, this conveys a stiff etiquette we might unintentionally give off when worn. With looks #1 and #2, the style of the boyfriend blazer also provides more space around our arms, elbows and shoulders to be much more mobile. I can’t stand it when I lift my arms and everything else I’m wearing just lifts too – and what about the often-awkward outward folding around the lapels where you’re forced to constantly pull down your blazer every so often? Trust me, these blazers will help you and I forget about those infuriating moments!
2. The egg shell hue of this blazer – instead of a pure white seen in other Spring 2012 collections – gives a softer and easier look for the eyes. It lessens the formality of the garment for a casual but still professional day at work.
   
3. Looks #3 and #4, which have that unique structure to the blazer, are perfect for fashionistas at work who want to do a little risk taking. Especially with Look #3, which has a double-lined ribbing detail right at the hips and a tail in the back. To me, this gives a powerful but subtle statement for a woman who wants to flaunt some independence and style!

Overall, these blazers are great for a younger or updated classic look for the professional woman who wants to differentiate herself from the formal blazer and just generally be a chic fashionista working it at the office!

Here are a couple of pieces I found that are great for styling with these blazers! Check out NTL’s camisoles and tops in the clothing section to see what you can do to spice up your Spring 2012 wardrobe (and Fall 2011 too of course)!

Questions? Email Lisa N. at lisan@nowthatslingerie.com, comment here below, or follow our updates on Facebook or Twitter!

References and sources:

Givenchy Spring 2012 Collection photos:http://www.style.com/fashionshows/complete/S2012RTW-GIVENCHY

Arianne Christelle silk tunic top: http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=5666-christelle-silk-tunic-arianne-lingerie

Arianne Teri camisole: http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/en/details.php?id=5498-teri-camisole-with-lace-front-applique-arianne-lingerie