We’ve all heard of VPL (visible panty lines), but there’s a new VPL out there (visible pocket lines) and they are equally as offensive and destructive to one’s overall image and leg line as their original acronym.   Visible pocket lines occur when your pants are too tight or too light in color, so the lining of the pocket across the top of the thigh or across the back of the bum is exposed.  This creates unneeded lumps and bumps in areas that we would prefer to be sleek and smooth. 

There is a very simple solution for VPL.  Cut the pockets out of your pants and sew them shut.  This removes the bulges of pocket lining and obliterates any gaping or puckering at the pocket opening.  The overall look is a leg line that is as slim and smooth as possible. 

This trick works with any type of pant, jean, or skirt that has unsightly pockets and should only cost you about $10 at your local tailor or dry cleaner.  When it comes to our hips and thighs we need all the help we can get.  Once you discover how much this little tip helps your overall appearance, you’ll be taking everything to the tailor straight from the store.  Enjoy your new found sleeker silhouette.

Balmain may have started the revival of the 80’s bold shoulder with that now infamous asymmetric military inspired jacket, but the fall ‘09 collection of Nicolas Ghesquiere for Balenciaga softened the shoulder to a much more user friendly version.  Gone were the space age, sci-fi shoulders we’ve seen in the past, leaving room for silhouette skimming crew neck tops and satin puff sleeved blouses.  Both were paired with exquisitely folded, soft knee length skirts for a completely feminine feel. 

If the 80’s flashback shoulder isn’t your thing, pair these beautiful Grecian draped skirts with yoked waistbands with a classic white blouse, solid fitted tee, or lacey camisole for a more classic aesthetic.  Either way, skirts like these are not to be missed this fall.

Style Solution reader, Laura, writes:
“I just ‘inherited’ a Levi’s jean jacket  from the 80s [similar to the one above]. It belonged/belongs to my husband. I am a little concerned that I will look strange wearing a man’s jacket (not sure if people can tell that or not) and the lapels are a bit big. However, it is by Levi’s and isn’t it considered vintage? Any advice?”

Style Solution Answer:

Yes, everyone will be able to tell that you are wearing a man’s jacket.  While a denim jacket is a great staple, the styles and washes do evolve over the years and it’s important to stay current.  Even though there is presently a resurgence of 80s fashions, a men’s Levi denim jacket will still look like it’s not yours. 

My suggestion: if you love it and want to keep it, spend a little money and get it tailored so that it fits you well and looks a little more modern.  Try taking in the lapels, narrowing through the torso and arms, or cropping the jacket.  You can also try distressing the denim to look spot on trend. 

Temperatures are heating up, clothing is getting skimpier, and girls are shedding their jewelry at the beach for fear that it may obstruct their perfect tans.  While you may decide to pass on the pearls at the pool, do not say no to one of these absolutely spectacular and unique agate necklaces by Stone and Honey.  Keep things simple this summer.  With a necklace like this you won’t need any other jewelry. 

Each necklace is hand made and completely one of a kind.  They all start with an intensely colored slice of agate, from hot pink and azul blue, to kelly green and royal purple.  A delicate piece of  hand cut silver or gold is then riveted to the agate for a look that is sure to turn heads wherever you go.  With prices ranging from $90 - $225 and necklaces available in small, medium, or large, there’s plenty of variety. 

Eat your heart out on the blue one above ladies, as I already bought it.  Browse through the collection though as there are plenty of other fantastic options to choose from.  I think I just got shoppers high!

We all know that boho was so two years ago, but Julia Chaplin’s debut book, Gypset Style, identifies a new era of bohemia, the Gypset: one part gypsy, one part jet set. Without a peasant skirt in sight, the emphasis is on fashion risks and personal style instead of expensive, prefabricated, store bought creations.  The look consists of bold colors, ethnic prints, beaded jewelry, embroidery, layers, interesting color combinations, and anything bought in some far corner of the world.  In short, Gypset fuses the ease and carefree lifestyle of a gypsy with the sophistication of the jet set. 

More than a style, Gypset is a way of life that shuns the mainstream and celebrates the unique, exotic, and undiscovered.  Get the Gypset style by following these simple rules:

1)    Wear Bold Colors - Gypsetters love the beach, so think island colors like corals, turquoise, red, green, sky blue, hot pinks, and bright yellows.

2)    Play with Patterns and Prints - Try florals with stripes, polka dots with plaid, or gingham with argyle.  Don’t be afraid to use patterns to express your personality.

3)    Look for Flowy Fabrics - Lightweight fabrics are essential to any Gypset outfit.  Look for organic cottons, linen, bamboo, and chiffon. 

4)    Wear Transition Pieces - One reason Gypsetters are so influential and considered to have such great style is because they effortlessly transition their wardrobes from day to evening.  Search for key wardrobe staples that you can dress up or down with the addition of a different shoe, bag, or jewelry.

5)    Avoid Flashy Designer Logos - Look for unique styles that separate you from the pack instead of any item that screams designer name or initials.

Regardless of whether you’ve ever been to Ibiza, or could even locate it on a map, it’s possible to channel your inner Gypset by embracing your style and never apologizing for it.  Confidence and creativity are key.  You can find your passport and start globetrotting again after the recession.  For right now, just follow these Gypset rules and fake it till you make it.

Any loyal follower of The Style Solution knows that I love it when stores and brands help a girl out and break things down by body type.  If you’ve ever been a bridesmaid, you’ll know just how important this is.  There is nothing worse than being so excited that your BFF is getting married and asked you to be a bridesmaid, only to have the horror of seeing what she’s picked out for bridesmaid and flower girl dresses.  All the other skinny bones Jones bridesmaids may easily fit into those little strapless numbers, but your large bust is not going to work in that tiny dress.

David’s Bridal has introduced a fabulous, body type index of all their dresses.  I love it.  You click on the body type that best describes you: full bust, curvy, petite, pear shaped, or boxy, then a list of dresses and separates appears that you can mix and match in different colors and styles to create your perfect look.  As a bride, you can tell your bridesmaids which color you want and then they can find a combo that works for them.  You will still have a uniform bridal party, but one that makes all of your bridesmaids shine because they feel good about the way they look and how they feel in their bridesmaids dresses.   

Your flower girls will look the part as well.  Mini me dresses are available in their size to make sure they feel like they are a uniform part of the wedding party as well.  Happy shopping!   

I know we all love the designer collaborations with stores we can actually afford…especially during this recession.  Well if you missed the first shipment of Matthew Williamson’s collection for H&M, don’t fret.  The second shipment arrives in stores tomorrow, so plan your day accordingly. 

His color drenched collection carries with it the promise of the sun this summer.  Whether you’re looking for a stylish and affordable bikini, a sheer summer dress, or something stylish for your boyfriend, stop in to H&M tomorrow.  This is the first time that an H&M designer collaboration collection is available in all H&M stores and also marks Matthew Williamson’s menswear debut.  Welcome boys to Mr. Williamson’s wonderful world.  You won’t be disappointed!

While it may be tempting to throw clothing to the wind and jump straight into your tanks, minis, and sundresses, summer isn’t here just yet.  And I could bet that your beach body isn’t ready for center stage yet either.  Spring just began and in case you haven’t noticed, there is still a bit of a chill in the air. 

Spring’s soft, slouchy, boyfriend tees, and blazers make the perfect companion while not revealing too much of your reemerging killer silhouette.  Pair with a short short or skirt and heels to show off those legs and ensure that the look still has a feminine quality.   

The boyfriend blazer provides added warmth to your spring time look and can be shed easily when the weather heats up. 

Looks available at www.shopbop.com

In years past, any bathing suit with a built in skirt was reserved for the over 70.  This year we’re seeing everything from barely there ruffle minis to slightly more modest super minis.  Almost every major swimwear brand including Betsy Johnson, Sauipe, Becca, Beach Bunny, and Juicy Couture are all showing their own take on this trend. 

Forgo the boyshort this summer and opt instead for a mini to look spot on trend, feminine, and flirty.

Stylist, Image Consultant, & Personal Shopper 2 Day Training

If you are looking to get started in a career as a stylist, image consultant, or personal shopper, or just need a refresher, here’s your chance.

You will learn:
The key components of styling:
How to build your portfolio, where to shop, how to shop strategically, building your contact base, how to work a photo shoot (how to set up, what to do, where to begin, and how to do it quickly), pulling clothes, returns, fittings, basic tailoring, and building your kit.

The key components of image consulting:
Basic color and style analysis, body type analysis, wardrobe planning, personal shopping, working with a variety of clients, creating product for increased sales, and developing strategic alliances.

General business components:
How to start your business from the ground up, learn how to market yourself and find a niche, learn about the different revenue streams available to stylists and image consultants.

Walk away with the tools and confidence to start your own successful personal styling business.

Date: April 16-17
Time: 10am – 5pm
Location: Costa Mesa
Fee: $1200 per two day training. Includes instruction and materials

Call today to sign up for this invaluable, small group training and get your career jumpstarted today.