How to Style The Little Black Dress

The reason it’s the perfect “little black dress” and not the perfect “little burgundy dress” is that a woman can to get the most wear out of versatile black — more than any other color — by dressing it up or down with other garments and accessories.

Keep two things in mind when building your wardrobe from this one fabulous dress:

The key to successfully making an outfit for any occasion from just one little black dress is beginning with a classic shape that flatters your body type; babydoll-, mini-, and maxi-dresses aren’t as adaptable as a simple, timeless cut.

Keep it simple: the beauty of the little black dress is its unabashed minimalism. No matter how much you layer your look, stick to mostly neutral shades with a few pops of analogous accent colors.

Here’s how the little black dress can make you a fashion chameleon: smart and professional by day, sexy and sultry at night, and clever and funky on weekends.

Little Black Dressing at Work

Keep It Professional at the Office

• For daytime, layer a trendy bow tie blouse, a crisp white shirt or slim-fitting turtleneck under the professional little black dress.
• Slip on a solid-colored cashmere cardigan, or a cropped blazer, and put on a pair of opaque tights with a pair of tall boots (for a more casual look), or peep toe shoes with high or kitten heels (for a more formal daytime ensemble).
• Finish off your classic look with diamond stud earrings (or whatever you can manage) and some pearls.

Little Black Dressing at Night

Keep It Sexy for a Night on the Town

• Wear the little black dress on its own with sheer or fishnet stockings, sexy stilettos, a little bit of bling (dangly earrings or a tennis bracelet), and a small clutch.
• To keep evening chills at bay, add a touch of faux fur. Shrug on a fake fur cape, bolero or mini-poncho — it’ll keep your shoulders warm and leave the rest of your outfit on display.

Little Black Dressing on the Weekend

Keep It Comfy and Funky at Lunch with the Girls

• Layer a cozy turtleneck or long-sleeved tee under the little black dress.
• Put on a pair of opaque or funky patterned tights with a pair of tall, mid-calf, or ankle boots. Alternatively, stay grounded with a cute pair of flat shoes.
• Cinch on a thick belt, put on some bangles or a chunky cuff bracelet, and slip on a long necklace with a funky pendant.
• Layer over a fitted tweed blazer, cropped jacket, bolero, or leather jacket.
• Finish it off with a scarf, gloves, and your favorite short-brimmed or newsboy cap.

Go Ultra Simple for a Casual Date

• For anytime elegance, wear your little black dress over a cream or charcoal grey turtleneck or fitted tee, buckle on a black leather belt and finish it all off with a bright scarf for a splash of color.
• Slip on opaque charcoal tights and a pair of black peep toe wedges.

Find out which little black dress will be most flattering to your figure.

Sheath Dress Styling Tips

Elegant, feminine and practical, the sheath dress is defined by a figure-hugging silhouette with a well-defined waist, that usually is cut mid-calf or shorter. Sheath dresses may be designed with or without sleeves, and are especially flattering on curvy, hour-glass figures, like Christina Hendricks or Salma Hayek.

Now that you know what a sheath dress is, here’s how to make the most of this versatile, sophisticated frock:

How to Accessorize a Sheath Dress

Shoes? High Heels, Please.

The sheath dress’s distinct waist serves to create the illusion of long legs in the same way that high-waisted pants make your legs look longer. The elongated elegance of the sheath dress begs you to take it one step further by wearing the highest heel you can comfortably manage, be it in the form of a classic pump, wedge shoe, or high heeled boot. Not only will it keep the long lines going, but a higher heel will also enhance the shape of your leg by flattering the curves of your calves and ankles.

Statement Jewelry

The neat, minimal shape of the sheath dress makes it the perfect canvas for one or two tasteful yet eye-catching accessories: pin on a colorful or metallic brooch, or adorn yourself with a long string of pearls, a chunky necklace, or a thick and ornate bracelet. The retro style of the dress (à la Mad Men era) also makes it particularly suited to vintage costume jewelry.

Cinch a Sheath Dress with a Belt

The highlight of this simple dress style is its well-defined waist; further cinching the waist of a sheath dress with a wide belt accentuates the style’s feminine appeal. We love the cummerbund-style Burberry Prorsum Leather Wrap Belt ($315); get the look for less with the Elegantly Waisted Twist Belt($137). Wear multiple super skinny belts (crisscrossed) as a more original way to achieve a similar effect. You can also wear a single thin belt over a sheath dress, but this look works best on dresses that fit rather snugly around the waist; if there’s a lot of extra fabric or the dress isn’t a great fit you’ll end up with an unflattering, bulgy, frumpy looking waistline.

Layer with a Blazer or Cardigan

The sheath dress’s strong silhouette makes it a brilliant base for layering with cute cardigan sweaters and slim-fitting blazers. For a softer substitute to a structured blazer, and as an exercise in smart layering, go ahead and wear a longer cashmere cardigan sweater over your sheath dress (with the buttons between your breastbone and belly button fastened) and cinch it all with a wide belt.

Add a Punch of Color

Once again, the sheath dress’s simple shape means you can go a bit brighter and bolder than you normally might at work. While basic black and gray are appropriate for very conservative environments, choose bright, energetic solid colors or attention-grabbing graphic prints for effortless, eye-opening sophistication. And nothing pops like red! The DKNY Cherry Cap Sleeve Sheath Dress ($484) is a show-stopping ultra elegant dress to wear when you want all eyes and attention on you.

Totally trend-right for fall’s jewel tone color palette, queen of the sheath dress, L’Wren Scott’s Emerald Wool Sheath Dress($1730) is a dream basic for the office and for evening events.

How to Wear Sheath Dresses at Work

Sheath Dress Hemlines

Sheath dressing takes naughty-secretary style and transforms it into smart, modern executive fashion. In the workplace, the sheath dress is a decidedly feminine, more efficient alternative to the business suit. For professional attire, always opt for sheath dresses with hemlines the hit anywhere from just above the knee to mid-calf.

Sheath Dress Necklines

There are many choices when it comes to necklines for the sheath dress, including bateau (or boat neck), deep V, jewel, scoop, square or sweetheart. No matter your workplace, save cleavage for night-time looks and wear a light blouse – preferably one with a bow-tie neck detail or ruffle – under dresses with revealing necklines. Banana Republic’s Black Lightweight Wool Pleat Dress ($150), with its sweetheart neckline and faux-wrap construction,  is a stunning little number to have as a go-to dress in your wardrobe. Professional, flattering and unabashedly feminine, this dress is suitable for a slightly dressier workplace and easily dresses up with simple accessories and showstopping shoes.

Sheath Dress Sleeve Options

If your workplace allows, in warmer spring and summer months wear a sleeveless sheath dress like the divinely detailed sleeveless crew-neck Alexandria Sheath Dress ($425) by Diane von Furstenberg; if that’s too much skin, slip on a cardigan or fitted blazer. For more coverage in cooler months (or air-conditioned offices), go with a cap-, three-quarter, or full-length sleeve. Check out the Gap Leathertrim Shift Dress ($70) with  ¾-length sleeves; wear it with opaque black or grey tights and black leather ankle boots for a smart look that transitions well from work to play.

For a dress that ticks all these boxes, behold L’Wren Scott’s Black Square Neck Sheath Dress($2065): slim cut, with a soft feminine square neck, ¾ length sleeves and the new midi length hemline that extends to the calf,  is the epitome of a classic little black dress.. truly a wardrobe essential.

Sheath Dress Evening Looks

For night time looks, simply shed your blouse, cardigan sweater or blazer, slip on a pair of strappy stiletto shoes, put on some dangly earrings, let your hair down from its daytime chignon and head into the night wearing Versace’s Purple Back-Zip Shift Dress ($1340). The figure-hugging cut of the dress and dramatic makeup is all the sex appeal you need.

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Fishnet Stockings

Fishnet stockings. Few words can produce such vivid visions of naughtiness. However, fishnets have become far more acceptable than in they once were, having made their way out of the shadowy darkness of clubs and burlesque shows, and into the bright light of modern urban women’s wear. Here are some tips on getting away with wearing this saucy mesh stocking by the light of day.

There are a variety of factors that influence the appropriateness of fishnet stockings, including the size of the mesh, the color of the stocking, the footwear and clothing it is worn with, and the condition of the stocking.

Fishnet Hosiery Mesh Size

As a general rule, fishnet hosiery with a mesh any greater than the standard tiny holes (approximately 1/16th inch wide when worn) are inappropriate for everyday, formal, and (especially) professional attire. If you’re going to indulge in large-mesh fishnet stockings — which tend to look a bit costumey— reserve them for funky or punk club-wear.

Fishnet Stocking Color & Style

Black, chocolate or beige fishnet stockings are excellent for everyday wear, and add a bit of pizzazz to an otherwise ordinary outfit. Flesh toned fishnets hosiery may even be appropriate in some conservative workplaces, and are a fabulous modern alternative to dated and dowdy nude pantyhose.

Colored Fishnet Tights

Fishnets are now available in virtually every shade you can conceive of, however in most cases, wearing eye-popping, brightly colored fishnet stockings in a professional office setting is not recommended. However, if your work environment is more casual or creative and bright tights suit your office and your personality, by all means, go for it.

Layering Fishnet Tights

When there’s a chill in the air, those with a desire to take a bold fashion step forward can even try layering brightly hued fishnet stockings on top of tights in solid colors like neutral black, grey, brown or white.

Special Details

If you’re looking for a fishnet stocking that stands out from the rest of the pack of standard fishnet hosiery (without looking like an x-rated costume) definitely check out Nicole Miller’s Wide Chevron Fishnet Tights ($18), available in black or chocolate. These chevron-patterned fishnets add an extra level of visual interest to any outfit, and fit in perfectly with the tweed, chevron, and menswear-inspired textile and pattern trends for fall while being wholly feminine… love!

Wolford has a beautiful new collection of luxury stockings and patterned tights, including their Estelle Black Tights($50), which have a fine fishnet mesh with the sexy and elegant detail of a stocking stitch (wider than a typical backseam) that extends from the waistband to the toes — super sultry for evening looks or sexy-smart if worn under a more straight-laced pencil skirt and tall boots, with just a hit of the woven backseam exposed.

And for those occasions on which you want to create a little heat, there’s nothing like fishnet stay-ups and lingerie to get things steamy. Wolford’s lace-topped Black Jade Stay-Ups ($67) are super sexy and have an invisible elastic band to keep them put.

Know When to Throw Away Fishnet Tights

Even though fishnet hosiery is made of thousands of tiny holes, snags and tears are completely unacceptable. Throw damaged stockings out.

Figure-Flattering Fishnet Stockings

Thanks to the availability of slimming hosiery and undergarments on the market, you can now get control-top fishnets: Spanx Tight End Fishnet Tights($28) eliminate grid bum once and for all, making your tummy, toosh and yams look as sexy as you feel!

And if tummy control is not a concern, check out Capezio’s Fishnet Seamless Tights($26); these tights were designed for dancers and will not show side or front seams, and can be worn without any risk of showing even the slightest peek of lining or control fabric.

How to Wear Fishnets at Work

You really need to be careful when incorporating the fishnet stocking into your work attire. Yes, they’re hip and sexy, and that may be exactly what makes them inappropriate in some work environments, even if they are worn with an otherwise conservative outfit.

Unless you work in an open, progressive or creative work environment, fishnets may work against you, making you look too racy and unprofessional when meeting with clients and colleagues who expect a more conventional look.

Wear Fishnet Hosiery with Pants!

A fun option that may work on the job is wearing fishnets under pants, showing just a peek of mesh between the top of your shoe and pant hem; go with either full on fishnet tights or choose fishnet socks or knee-highs.

How to Wear Fishnets with Skirts and Dresses

Although fishnet stockings look very stylish with boots, pumps, kitten heels or flat shoes when worn with a skirt, make sure that your dress or skirt’s hemline falls no higher than knee length. Mini skirts with fishnet stockings come across as trashy looking; a more chic option is a flattering pencil skirt or flared skirt.

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Modern Workwear

Today’s business casual attire for women is sophisticated, relaxed, and professional. Dress to impress at your workplace with these tips on building a stylish yet casual business wardrobe.

Why You Should Always Dress to Impress at Work

Prospective and current employers and colleagues may judge you negatively if you fail to dress appropriately; if you don’t put effort into your personal appearance, why should they think you’ll invest energy into excelling at work? Whether you’re looking for work or even if you’ve been employed at the same place of work for quite some time, always strive to make the best, most professional impression to get the job, gain a promotion, or land an account.

What is Business Casual Attire?

In a professional situation you want people to focus less on your outfit and more on you and your valuable ideas. The idea is to dress in a simple, classic manner without too many distracting elements. Your business casual working wardrobe should consist of streamlined, versatile pieces that can be easily mixed and matched (to maximize your outfits), and not be too busy, trendy, or revealing. This is not the place for low-cut, see-through, or cleavage-baring tops, skin tight clothing, mini skirts, and ultra busy patterns or prints.

Jeans might also be a no-no. Depending on your office,trouser cut, dark wash jeans may be acceptable when paired with more workplace-friendly pieces such as button-up shirts and structured jackets.

Find Out What Dress Code is Appropriate for Your Workplace

With the exception of more conservative offices of some professions such as lawyers, bankers, financial advisors, etc., a lot of modern work places have adopted a pretty unbuttoned dress code compared to businesses of generations past. However, business casual dress may not be formal enough to wear in some of the more conservative workplaces, or on a job interview — which might, for example, require that you wear a suit.

Always do your research before showing up under-dressed. And when it comes to attending business-related functions, even if not explicitly stated, business casual dress code typically applies to professional workshops, trade shows, meetings or networking events.

Casual Fridays?

Now, let’s set something straight: when used in the context of “Casual Fridays,” the word casual does not mean that it’s okay to wear pajamas, sweat pants or track suits, fitness gear, tatty shoes, running shoes, ball caps or skimpy clothes. Since today’s workplaces are already much more casual than they used to be, Casual Friday is really only meaningful in the remaining offices who still abide by a dress code of more formal attire. Many offices have done away with the idea of Casual Fridays altogether due to shockingly inappropriate outfits being worn to work.

How to Put Together a Smart Business Casual Wardrobe

Even though you want your boss, colleagues and clients to focus on your ideas more than your outfits, nobody wants to look or feel drab, wearing the same thing day after day. Here are a few tips to help you master the business casual look while maximizing the number of different outfits you can get from just a few basic staple garments:

• Keep accessories simple and to a minimum in any one outfit; quality is better than quantity.
• Wear trousers made of high quality fabrics in neutral tones.
• Invest in a few lux cashmere twinsets or cardigan sweaters in brighter colors.
• Get a couple of dark pencil skirts to combine with various tops, blouses and sweaters.
• Dress up shirts or simple tops with smart fitted blazers.
• To get the most out of mixing and matching, choose garments in solid colors or fine prints instead of large, bold patterns.
• Purchase a suit and wear the jacket, pants or skirt as separates.
• Use accessories like scarves, bags, shoes, brooches and other jewelry to add interesting detail to a simple outfit.
• Add to your business casual wardrobe by shopping with your existing workwear garments and accessories in mind; this will cut down on repetition and maximize the number of new outfits you can make.

1. Halogen Seamed Shirt & Pencil Skirt
   Get to work in this super versatile soft, cotton sateen pencil skirt, paired with a basic short-sleeved cotton-stretch shirt with flattering seams and a fabulous belt.
2. Calvin Klein Cheston Woven Wool Blazer
   There is nothing more valuable to the modern woman’s workwear wardrobe than a smart, well-tailored blazer. This light-brown and while wool woven blazer is a go-to garment, adding polish and structure to everything you wear.
3. Narciso Rodriguez Silk-Blend Knitted Sweater
   Add a little interest to your outfit with nautical stripes! This boat-neck silk-blend navy,cream and gray striped sweater is perfect on its own or layered under a jacket or cardigan sweater.
4. Halogen Cardigan, Knit Bow Top & Tweed Pencil Skirt
   This bright, sunny colored cardigan sweater anchors a feminine, work-friendly look, and adds personality to the traditionally dark and neutral shades of workwear.
5. Moschino Crinkled Silk-Blend Dress
   Workwear doesn’t have to be masculine! This berry pink Moschino silk-blend shift dress has a simple silhouette with ladylike appeal thanks to pleated shoulders and slight blouson sleeves, with a figure-flattering belt-cinched waist. Also great for layering under a structured jacket.
6. Halogen Back Button Drape Neck Sweater
   This lightweight draped sweater with billowy dolman sleeves is an ideal match for structured pencil skirts or straight-legged trousers; buttons down the back add a little unexpected interest without being too flashy.
7. Marni Cropped Straight-Leg Pants
   These tailored cropped pants are streamlined and ultra versatile, providing a classic foundation to casual office attire.

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How to Pack Luggage

Bring the best luggage for your travel plans, find out what to pack for a trip and learn how to pack clothes in a suitcase.

Often, we only think about what is going into the suitcase, and not what is surrounding our prized possessions. Take a few moments before packing to think about the ideal luggage, because you’ll have to carry that thing around for your entire vacation.

Most travel arrangements will fit into these four luggage options: backpacks, spinner suitcases, garment bags and mega luggage suitcases.

Packing Different Types of Luggage

Backpacks & Duffel Bags

If you’re going to be jumping trains, hitting up every city in sight, and staying in hostels, opt for a large backpack or duffel bag. For a backpack that’s comfortable, sturdy and has lots of flexible storage consider Mountain Equipment Co-Op’s Walkabout TravelPack, can convert into a suitcase for travel. The front section zips off into a daypack, keeping your key items at bay when you don’t want to lug around your pack.

Spinner Suitcases

If your vacation only involves a few city hops and train or bus rides, use a suitcase on wheels that you can easy lift and maneuver. Samsonite Hardside Rolling Upright  Spinner Suitcasesare considered must-have carry-on travelwear which allow for top notch darting and dodging through bustling crowds. And for a suitcase guaranteed never to disappear into the sea of black luggage, check out Heys make fashion-forward options like Heys Britto Butterfly Hardside Rolling Spinner Suitcase.

Garment Bags

Lightweight, nimble, and perfect for overnight or weekend trips, garment bags are the ideal luggage for safely packing suits, dresses, pants or wrinkle-prone clothing since there’s little folding required; just hook in the clothing on its hanger, fold the bag and go. Garment bags usually don’t have a lot of space for toiletries or shoes, but they’re a must-have for business trips or excursions where you need your clothes kept pressed and wrinkle-free. The Hartmann “Packcloth” Deluxe Garment Bag is a great choice for business travel; it accommodates up to four suits, has spacious zip and shoe pockets, waterproof sections and mesh pouches for small travel items.

The “I don’t pack light” Luggage

If your travel plans consist of arriving at a set destination and staying put for your entire vacation, you can throw practical out the window, almost. Choose either one fit-all suitcase, or two smaller suitcases, but keep in mind you still have to maneuver around the airport with your bags. Choose a bigger suitcase if you have set transport from the airport, but remember, a back-breaking enormity of a bag is never pleasant to cart around. Two suitcases will solve the weight issue, and pack one half-full so you have room for souvenirs.

What to Pack for a Trip

Packing for extended travel tends to result in the epidemic of over-packing. The easiest way to get the most wear out of your minimally packed wardrobe is to pick a variety of pieces that all coordinate. You want to be able to get as many outfits out of as little clothing as possible. Here are essential items to stash in your suitcase which are both practical and stylish:

Skirts, Pants & Shorts

• Pack a just-below-the knee peasant skirt. These full skirts are often gathered or tiered with a generous fit. This means minimal wrinkles and absolute comfort.
• Pack crisp cropped pants in a neutral tones (black, beige, white, grey or navy). A capri pant of any length looks clean and classy and, depending on what you pair it with, can work in both hot weather and chilly nights.
• Be sure to bring Bermuda shorts; Vince Side Buckle Bermuda Short is a cute and preppy version of this season’s favorite bottom; it looks good with flats for daytime, and stunning heels with a peep-toe, or wedges, for evening.

Tops, Sweaters & Dresses

• Pack one tunic in a neutral tone: this season’s must-have top. Pick colors that will match what you’ve brought. This will probably mean a classic black or white, or a simple pattern.
• Put in long tees and tanks to be layered and mixed. Pick items in a soft cotton with a shot of lycra. They will be both comfortable and lightweight, as well as keep their shape.
• Bring layers: grab your favorite two cardigans and your favorite two fitted blazers; one light and one dark of each. Again, choose colors that will match your packed wardrobe. These top layers will perform double-duty by giving you added warmth and adding a touch of class.
• Don’t forget to pack the ever-popular maxidress — dress it up with high heeled sandals or go casual in comfy flip flops.

Travel Footwear

Packing footwear can always get out of control so be sensible. You really don’t need to bring every sandal you own:

• Toss in a pair of black or metallic Havaianas flip flops, the most comfortable flip flops around. Also bring a pair of fancy sandals (for when you’re staying put) that scream Boho Chic.
• Bring a sporty walking shoe. This doesn’t mean you have to bring a suped-up runner with shocks and hexalite; just pack a comfortable, trendy sneaker that’ll take you all over town with zero foot aches.
• Splurge and bring along your favorite pumps to fancy up your pencil-thin capri pants, or pack wedges to give your crisp Bermuda shorts a lift.

How to Accessorize Vacation Outfits

Keep your accessories to a bare minimum, but don’t opt out entirely. The perfect piece can give your practical ensembles the necessary flair. Pack pieces with a lot of character and go with most of what you’ve brought. Include in your suitcase two eye-catching belts, a handful of earrings that pop, and one bright scarf or Pashmina.

Research Appropriate Dress in Your Destination

Keep in mind your place of travel may not have the same dress codes as your hometown. Many foreign countries have different customs on what to wear, and where you can wear it. Research your destination online for appropriate dress so you aren’t caught with the wrong inch of skin showing.

How To Pack a Suitcase

Here are a few tips for maximizing minimal suitcase space, and keeping your wardrobe damage-free:

1. Stuff shoes and sandals with socks or small items. This will both conserve space and keep your footwear from being crushed.
2. Start with bulky items, such as cosmetics, hair supplies and electronics. Then either choose a large item (a sweater) to cover and even out the bumpy surface, or cut a piece of cardboard to cover the items and act as a pseudo suitcase bottom.
3. Pack the bottoms of your pants first, leaving the top half dangling out the sides of the suitcase. Pack the remainder of your clothing, and then fold the top half of your pants over these items. This will save your pants from those unsightly knee creases and wrinkles.
4. Keep your clothing wrinkle-free by cutting down on folds (tees can be folding just in half, for example) and rolling smaller items.
5. Pack tight, but not full. Don’t overstuff your suitcase, but try to fill in all small gaps. The less space your clothing has to move, the closer it’ll be to its original state post-flight.

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Chic Shorts

Nothing says summer fashion like a stylish and cool pair of shorts, and these days there are more lengths, colors and silhouettes to choose from than ever. The new breed of shorts looks nothing like the ones you wore in grade school; fashion designers are turning out smart, tailored shorts styles cut just above the knee and mid-thigh that are flattering to most body types, and are a sophisticated, fresh alternative to summer dresses and skirts for day or night.

Shorts for Petite Women

Women with a smaller stature or short legs can create the illusion of longer legs by wearing short shorts — that is, shorts with a shorter hemline. Petite ladies should never be afraid of high heels; adding a heel is the perfect way to further lengthen the leg and add an instant elevation.

Shorts for Tall Women

Tall women look extremely chic in a mid-thigh or knee-length short (also known as the Bermuda Short), which compliments and flatters the proportions of tall ladies’ long legs. Keep your long legs going on for miles and miles by choosing shorts in a neutral shade that compliments your skin tone.

Whether you’re tall or short, wearing fashionable short shorts or preppy Bermuda shorts, be sure to avoid showing too much skin. Balance shorter shorts with a long sleeve dress shirt or tunic, or a billowy blouse. If you’re sporting longer, mid-thigh, knee-length or Bermuda shorts, you can keep cool by pairing them with a sexy and interesting, embellished tank. Slip on a tailored jacket for a polished look.

Flattering Shapes of Shorts

The most flattering shorts sit low on the waist with a narrow, straight leg, but ladies with wider hips and thighs may wish to choose a wider leg.

Shorts for Women with Large Hips

Pear-shaped or hippie ladies can flatter their curves without calling too much attention to their hips by steering clear of narrow, form-fitting shorts. Instead, opt for straight-legged shorts that fall straight from the hips.

Shorts for Women with a Belly or Un-toned Midriff

Draw attention to your fabulous legs and away from your midriff by wearing tapered, sharply cut shorts with more voluminous tops, such as looser fitting camisoles, peasant tops, tunics and smock tops, which all provide cover and balance the proportions of a neatly cut short.

Wearing Shorts At Work

Depending on your workplace shorts may or may not be a suitable option for work; they may be an absolute no-no in more formal offices or during meetings with certain clients. In any case, rest assured that it is never appropriate to wear short shorts at work. Keep your look professional and polished by wearing styles that come at least to mid-thigh – but a cut just above the knee is ideal – and wearing them with a crisp, light cotton shirt and a tailored blazer.

Shorts with a Night Life

This is where we can really have fun and mix things up, enjoying flirty styles of shorts like paper bag style shorts which have a cinched waist and a slightly voluminous leg; we love Edun silk-georgette shorts, which make a relaxed alternative to a skirt when heading out for drinks or dinner. Look the part: opt for lux fabrics and always wear a heel or ultra fancy sandal when wearing shorts out on the town.

Are Your Shorts Chic?

Not all shorts are created equal. The biggest no-no when it comes to shorts for spring and summer is the ultra tiny, tight short known as the hot pant. Here are some chic choices for shorts that are definite “dos”:

• Bermuda shorts for a modern preppy look: Lafayette 148 New York Stretch Bermuda Shorts
• Super smart knee length denim shorts: ASOS Chambray Wide Leg Shorts
• Cargo shorts kicked up a notch: Catherine Malandrino Silk Cargo-Style Shorts
• Loose, structured boxy shorts in bold, trend-right cobalt blue: DKNY Cuffed Shorts

Shoes for Shorts

Complete your look with the right footwear. Ballet flats are a cute and practical option, but don’t forget to take advantage of the leg lengthening power of a high heel. Not only will a heel make your stems look longer, but they’ll also give an added sense of polish to your outfit, making it a little less casual and a lot more fab: wedges look super smart with tailored shorts, and sky-high stilettos are the perfect way to accessorize shorts for a night on the town.

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Sports Bras for Busty Gals

Some large breasted women may shy away from sports or physical activity due to the sheer weight of their breasts bouncing around. Alternatively, gals with big boobs might double (or triple) up on sports bras to strap those puppies down. And neither of these strategies is good for you.

“Girls in multiple bras are in the wrong size,” says Claire Dumican, owner of the Butterfly Collection, Canada’s first DD-KK cup online bra boutique.

Why You Need to Wear a Sports Bra

Bouncing around without adequate breast support leads to irreversible stretching of the ligaments which keep your breasts perky, and once they’ve stretched, your boobs will sag.

Claire explains that eighty-five percent of breast support comes from the bra’s band (not the straps), and wearing multiple bras causes uncomfortable constriction around ribcage. Mainstream compression sports bras don’t work for bigger busted women since full-busted ladies need a sports bra that comes high up under the arms, has thick material to absorb impact, and has extra thick straps. It’s also an added perk if a sports bra is made of a fabric that wicks moisture away to keep you (and the girls) dry, cool and comfortable.

A final word of advice from Claire to keep in mind when shopping for a sports bra for your big boobs?

“A painful bra is one that doesn’t fit you.”

Tips for Keeping Big Breasts Perky

• Keep your breasts firm, toned, and perky, and your skin elastic (which is ultra important for women with big boobs) by using moisturizer daily, the thicker the better. First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream is an extra thick, super-emollient (non-greasy) formula that absorbs quickly into the skin while providing ultra hydration for your skin. Made for sensitive, chafed and super dry skin, this cream will keep the skin on your breasts soft, supple and elastic for years to come.

• Wear a proper fitting sports bra when exercising to prevent damage to Cooper’s LigamentsCooper's Ligament suspends the breast from the collarbone and the underlying connective tissue of the upper chest, effectively supporting the breast in its normal position and maintaining its normal shape. When the ligament becomes damaged the breast tissue will sag under its own weight, losing its perky shape and curve. Boo!, which hold up your breasts.

• Strengthen your pectoral and other chest and back muscles which help support your breasts and maintain good posture.

• Breast size changes throughout a woman’s life, not just during puberty and pregnancy, so have a bra fitting regularly: once a year on average, every two months if you’re dieting or losing weight, during and after pregnancy and nursing, and after any time of great stress.

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Bras for Full-Figure Breasts

Breasts. Like women, they come in all shapes and sizes. So you’d think that bras of all sizes, shapes and styles would be readily available to meet women’s needs, right? Not so; like a lot of things in the world of fashion, there are seem to be fewer options available to the entire diversity of real women’s body shapes and sizes.

Bra & Lingerie Options for Women with Large Breasts

Most bra and lingerie boutiques to cater to women who wear a size D or smaller, which leaves a significant proportion of women feeling (literally) unsupported, and with little choice in the way of well-fitting, attractive lingerie.

It’s quite ironic that the group of women who most need the support of a well-fitting bra have the fewest options when it comes to size and style, no?

Enter Claire Dumican. Claire knows breasts. After moving to Canada, only to discover a sorry lack of lingerie options for women with large breasts, this British-born, big busted, blonde, former technology communications specialist made it her mission to help full-busted women everywhere get into the right size bra and feel fabulous about themselves.

What is “Full Bust?”

Claire explains that there are three distinct groups in media for women to identify with:

• Skinny models (who resonate with very few real women)
• Plus size (who have a band size 40 inches and greater)
• Mainstream, women who wear dress size 4 to 10 with a band size between 28 to 38 inches, and up to a size D cup

Full-busted women have traditionally been left out in the cold, so to speak: “What if you’re a dress size 6 and you have ad 32 H bust – who and where do you look to for your body type?” asks Claire, “It’s all them and real and they want to be able to dress properly and it’s not available.”

What about fake boobs? Fake boobs don’t need as much support as real boobs, she explains, which are very heavy and bounce a lot.

The Butterfly Collection: Bras for Big Boobs in Canada & Around the World

In 2010, Claire’s passion for getting big boobs into beautiful bras led her to launch the Butterfly Collection, Canada’s first DD-KK cup online bra boutique.  And following a perusal of her website and a thoroughly enjoyable Skype conversation, it was evident that Claire is truly living her passion and is excited to communicate her immense wealth of knowledge about breasts and bras.

In addition being an online retail source of superior quality, supportive, pretty and sexy bras and lingerie for large-breasted and plus size women, the Butterfly Collection website also serves as an important educational resource.

While the Butterfly Collection’s retail section caters exclusively to women above a D cup, a lot of the information on the site is of value to women of any bra-size, offering essential tools to help women learn to measure their own bra size accurately and determine which style of bra is most appropriate with different outfits or activities, as well as informing women about the importance of breast health and the role that wearing a supportive, beautiful bra plays in back health, and overall physical and emotional well-being.

Challenges Faced by Full-Busted or Plus Size Women in Finding the Right Bra

One obstacle large-breasted ladies typically face is the embarrassment factor; consider that most brick-and-mortar boutiques don’t even carry cup sizes above a size D, combine that with employees who may not be particularly adept at fitting bras, and you’re often left with large-breasted women being told that their boobs are too massive.

“It’s crushing to hear that your breasts are too big,” Claire says. “They buy off-the-rack bras that their boobs don’t fit into, and it’s a killer of self esteem.”

Smashing Your Boobs into Bras That Don’t Fit (The Smaller Cup / Bigger Band Trick)

One tactic stores may use to get a woman to “fit” into a bra is to try to squeeze large breasts into a smaller cup size by going up in the band size. Claire warns, “A bra should fit you, not the other way around.”

Unlike women with smaller bosoms, full busted women have a significant amount of breast tissue under the armpits, so it is critical for women with large breasts that all of their breast tissue fit into the cup.

As Claire so poignantly put it, “The more boob you have, the wider it spreads.”

Get Those Boobs Up & Out

The smaller-cup and larger band mash-up may lead to issues of discomfort, and will also lead to a less flattering look since the breast tissue will spread out to the side instead of being pushed up into a nice perky rack out front. Lift those ta-ta’s to reveal your waist and amp up the va-va-voom factor of your curvy figure.

So, You Think You Know Your Bra Size?

The truth is, most women are in the wrong bra size. Some of the Butterfly Collection’s customers have never previously been fitted or actually measured themselves for their bra size (yes, you can do this all by yourself!), while others haven’t had a fitting in 12 to 15 years.  For some reason, we’re brought up to believe that our boobs aren’t our own; we’re afraid to measure our own boobs and think that we need someone else to tell us what size we are, when in reality, it couldn’t be simpler.

Nonetheless, for many women the idea of measuring and fitting a bra is daunting, so Claire makes herself available to talk women through the fitting process with the Butterfly Collection over the phone.

“This is your body and you can reclaim it. You don’t need to be told by somebody else what you are or aren’t.”

Claire believes women need to take responsibility for their bodies and breasts. Measure yourself before you go bra shopping to make sure that you get a proper fitting, “It is about owning your boobs; they’re not there to annoy you, they’re there to make you look fabulous!”

Keep Your Big Boobs in the Right Size Bra

Breast size changes throughout a woman’s life; you should re-measure your bra size regularly:

• Once a year on average
• Every two months if you’re dieting or losing weight
• During and after pregnancy and nursing
• After any time of great stress (divorce, bereavement, etc.)

Besides getting to go shopping for a fun and flirty new bra, when you’re in the right bra size, you get your waist back; and the further your boobs are from your knees, the better you feel.

What a Difference a Bra Makes

To put Claire’s advice, measuring guide, and beautiful bras to the test, we had one of our own full-busted ladies (my mom) try out Claire’s tips and one of her most popular bras, the Grenier Easyfit Bra.

I was astonished to learn that my mother had been squeezing her ample bosom into 38C bras; she had always shunned underwire, because she found it “uncomfortable.” Well, no wonder! After measuring, using the guide from the Butterfly Collection, it turns out that she belongs in a 38E (DD); underwire from a C cup would cut badly into her breast tissue.

Amazed at the change in look and feel (and more definition to her waist), my mom compared being in the right bra size (and this lovely bra in particular) to having had “work done.” She stands taller and looks free and confident.