Joyce Neave style group


Joyce styles both women and men and is a consultant for several media companies, associations, newspapers, and online magazines. Joyce and her team keep clients current with fashion trends while maintaining a classic, timeless look.

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Make it your own

When it comes to fashion, there can be a fine line between unattractive and unbelievable.

Sometimes what looks nothing on a hanger can look amazing on*. That's why I always recommend trying everything (or, at least as much as your time and patience will allow). 

I found a dress at Neiman's Last Call sale that not only looked like nothing, but it was leaning towards really unattractive. But, eh, I was heading to the dressing room with a few other things and it looked a bit interesting, so I tried it on anyway. Well, I loved it. It's a gold and purple silk and lurex gown. Yes, gold and purple. Who would have guessed?

So I asked myself my favorite question, "Would I pay full price for this gown?" The answer: "Yes!"  

Tough sale shopping question answered, I started thinking about the possibilities.  I was saving $300, after all.  Was there anything I could do to really make it my own?

I'm 5'2", so shorter can often times be better for me, so I'm thinking of making it a short cocktail dress--it goes with me to the tailor tomorrow and we'll play around a bit.

So today's lesson: when shopping, keep in mind that anything (except knits) can be altered. Find pieces you love and make them work for you, make them entirely your own.  And if you find them cheap, better still!

*and sometimes, what looks amazing on in the front, can look not so much in the back.  Check both sides before leaving the house!