Brian Maynor December 19, 2013
December 18, 2013
December 19, 2013
It is easy to get caught up in the excitement of the event and let the desire to impress lead you down the path of ‘more is better’. Even though it is a party, more skin, more jewelry, more hairspray or makeup often leads to disaster not success. Here are a few reminders of things to avoid when prepping for your next event:
1. Overexposed. We have all seen the cutout dress that has more fabric removed than remaining. It should go without saying that those are ‘too much’, but they are not the only dresses that go too far. With plunging necklines, backless, strapless and micro-mini options it can be difficult to know when to draw the line. Showing skin is a good thing, but choose only one area to feature. For example, if the dress is short to show a lot of leg keep the arms covered and neckline modest, or if you choose a plunging neckline take the length to the knee, again keeping the arms covered.
2. Disco Balling. While the holidays are a time for glitter, sequins and all things sparkly without moderation you could end up looking like a disco ball. Just like exposing skin, chose one item to over embellish and keep the others plain. Whether you choose a blazer, pants, shoes or scarf you only want one thing to twinkle in the light.
3. Too Tight. Blame Hervé Léger and the infamous bandage dress for this trend of body conscious dresses. While I do think being able to see your shape is the key to looking smaller, you still need to be able to perform basic bodily functions like breathe; walk; sit and eat. You are going to be surrounded with scrumptious holiday treats. Loosen up the dress and you can enjoy more than their lovely aroma and presentation.
4. Pageant Hair. We live in the South, which means big hair is a fact of life, but during the holidays things tend to be taken to extremes. Instead of going for the backcombed and teased look try one of these trending styles: the loop, side sweep with waves or sleek ponytail.
5. Over Accessorized. While accessories can definitely elevate and complete an outfit they can also wreck it. Whether you are layering necklaces are creating an arm party it never fails to remember Coco Chanel’s famous advice: “Before leaving the house you should look in the mirror and remove one accessory.” Sometimes more is just more.
Everyone wants to look their best at a party, but make sure you have people talking about you for the right reasons. Leave a little to the imagination and avoid leaving a trail of feathers, glitter, sequins and eyelashes whenever possible.
Click on the images below to learn more about the outfit.
I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace. Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards athttp://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.
About Brian Maynor
Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.
