If you have been on social media lately you may have heard of a little controversy going on about #teacherbae. Apparently a teacher’s aide wore a figure hugging dress to school and posted a pic on social media. Bodygate followed as people weighed in on the controversy taking opposing sides. I usually try to steer clear of controversy on social media because arguing with total strangers makes no sense to me. I certainly have no time for that but because this is an issue that I cover in the book I thought I would use it as a teachable moment.

First let me say that I think teacherbae is beautiful and the dress she is wearing is perfectly fine (as is proven by the folks on the web showing size zero models in the same dress). The problem that I see with the dress is in the fit department. If you read my book you know I said that often one of the two areas where styling goes wrong is in the fit department. Women many times choose clothing that is either too small or too large. You don’t want to look frumpy but you also don’t want to look like you just stepped out of a reality tv show, especially when dressing for the workplace. When our clothes don’t fit well we send a message that a. I don’t care or  b. I am trying way too hard. Most women want to look chic and effortless. In order to do this your clothes have to fit well.

Here are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you get that effortless look.

1. Know your body type-are you pear shaped, apple shaped, athletic, petite…the list goes on but the reality is no matter how fabulous you are you aren’t going to automatically look good in everything. Unless you have the most amazing tailor on speed dial, do a little research on what styles look best on your body.
2. Ignore size- select clothing in three different sizes when entering the dressing room. Choose the size you think you wear and a size above and below it. Many times we get so focused on the number we refuse to try anything on that isn’t what we think that number should be. Remember no one will know what the number on the tag says but they will know if your clothes don’t fit well. Sizes fluctuate based on many different things.
3. Try different cuts-many stores cary multiple cuts of the same item. They give them all fancy names which just means that they are taking into consideration that all women aren’t cookie cutter. Celebrate your unique figure by selecting a cut that works for your body type. Don’t be forced into one size fits all clothing.
4. Remember to balance-I think the key to almost everything in life is balance and it rings true when it comes to fashion as well. Always make sure your outfit is balanced if your top is tight your bottom should be flowy and vice versa. There is nothing wrong with wearing something fitted as long as you balance it out. Remember two tights don’t make a right.
5. Shop with a friend whose honesty and style you admire or take a selfie. A picture will tell you the truth just like that honest friend.

I’d love to hear about what you do to ensure your own proper fit and effortless style!

p.s if you haven’t checked out my interview by cemoneglinton.com you can see it here. There is an audio interview too! Take a listen when you have time.

Until Next Post,