Work with your Shape!

All women come in different shapes and sizes and that i what make us all so beautiful!

Instead of getting frustrated with your shape, learn the work with it using these easy tricks to look and feel your best!

Curvy - look for pieces that show off your natural hourglass shape - belted sheaths to fitted blazers - jewel tones look rich and sophisticated and timeless neutrals are classic.  Too loose and baggy will not work for you and make you look (and feel) bigger than you are.

Try tailored clothes (not tight) to define your waist.  Pieces with structure (dresses and jackets) that nip in at the waist will highlight your curvy shape.  Avoid super stretchy fabrics - they can look too tight on your curves!

Show off your symmetry.  Keep the top and bottom in proportion with body skimming cuts.  Stay away from anything really exaggerated like really high waisted pants or slouchy shapes.

Don't go too bare. very low cut, short and sheer clothing is just to mush and can make you look bigger

Skinny jeans in a dark wash are a perfect go-to piece.  Perfect for nights out or casual days (depending on how you accessorize) Look for a style that eliminates back gap (with your curves you are prone to that) but the skinny style will really show off your smooth curves.

Watch those necklines.  Anything too high or in a turtle neck can make you look very top heavy but so can a deep scoop or deep v-neck, so  be sure to find a neckline that's in the middle



Kim Kardashian looks perfect in this casual ensemble.  The dark skinny pants with an ankle cut flatter her curves.  the t-shirt is fitted but certainly not tight showing off her waist but still very comfortable.  The jacket has structure in the shoulder so it help balance out her hips.  The colour palette in neutral and timeless but in some more modern cuts. This outfit would also work with boots or flats.



Here's Kim Kardashian in a dressier look.  Note the dress length - slightly above the knee - so she looks longer and leaner and those hips look so smooth.  The paneling makes her look even narrower in the waist area.  The square scoop neckline shows off the right amount of cleavage so it's sexy not sleazy. This dress really nips in at the waist making her look so feminine with an hourglass shape. 

Boyish - you can create curves with smart design details like peplum hems, colourblocking, draping and more....

Show a little skin.  You can pull off shorter hemlines and daring necklines without looking too sexy

Add curves.  Boost your hips, thighs and rear with peplums, pleating, draping and contrast piping..  Enhance your top half with ruffles, darts and interesting textures.

Look for side paneling.  You will see this in dresses, skirts, tops and even swimwear.  Side panels in a dark tone like black or navy will give your body the illusion of an hourglass shape.

A-line skirts are your friend.  Pleats or no pleats the a-line skirt will give you the illusion of hips



Here Charlize Theron rocks a more casual outfit.  This works because  of the layering on top which adds some volume - the metallic textured top adds some shape to her upper half.  The structured jacket give the illusion of an hourglass shape and the skinny jean shows off those long legs




Here Charlize Theron is a bit dressier.   Why does this work? the neckline shows off a bit of skin as does the shorter hem line.  The flowy fabric add some volume and then the wide belt synches it all in. 

Hippy - downplay your lower body and emphasize your waist, bust and shoulders with pieces like detailed tops, wide leg trousers and more....

Define your waist.  tuck in your blouse, high waisted skirts and belts will show off your slender middle.

Draw the eye up!  With sparkly details like bold earrings, necklaces, fabulous make up and hair!  This will draw attention to your upper half

Keep the bottom half simple.  Opt for skirts and pants in darker shades or subtle patterns.  Try a-line and wide leg fits.  Avoid tight fits and super stretchy fabrics.

Add visual interest above the waist line.  with print, pattern, bold colour and more..play up your top half.



Don't let this outfit fool you!  Alicia Keys look amazing - what a perfect outfit for a casual date or night out with the girls.  the all black silhouette is so flattering.  The belt shows off her waist.  The light patterned jacket with structure balances out her hips and the strappy shoe lightens up the bottom half



Alicia Keys rocks this look!  The silhouette is very flattering.  the shoulder pads balance out her hips and the deep neckline with the bold necklace, the edgy hairstyle and beautiful make up draw your eyes to her face, neck and shoulders.   the hemline keeps the look classy but still sexy and the shoe being mostly nude elongates the leg.  Stunning!


Busty - balance your chest, define your waist and add volume to your lower half with a mix of skirts, silky tops and more....

Create a waist.  Wear pieces that will curve in somewhat at your middle, this will give off the illusion of an hourglass shape.  Or you can just try tucking in your top.

Add a bit of width to hips and legs.  Pants and skirts in lighter shades with rich textures and eye catching details will bring your upper half into proportion.

Flatter your top half.  Slightly fitted tops and bodices will offer the sleekest silhouette.  More roomy styles with draping can also flatter but look at a case by case example.  Necklines that are too big or too low will make your chest look even bigger.

Pay attention to tailoring.  Jackets and dresses should nip in a the waist to offer the most flattering look.

Separates might be best.  With a larger upper half that can be tricky to dress (like the pear shape) so separates might be a better and easier option when it comes to dressing your body.











A great look on Ivanka Trump.  the colour blocking really works for her - the brighter colour on the bottom half draws the attention away from the chest.  The long and lean pencil cut shows off the figure, it's sexy and super flattering.  The lightest shade at the nipped in waistline is perfect!  And the thicker strap and dark top helps to support and minimize the busty top half



A more casual Ivanka Trump out with the family.  Here she looks great again.   In a straight leg jean in a dark wash, the straight leg balances out the shape more than a skinny cut would.  the top with a slight scoop is appropriate and flattering.  the mix of pattern and texture works for her as the black/white biased stripe almost acts as a panel to minimize her chest

Plus - look for tailored pieces and show off that figure!

Find your best fit.  Anything too tight or too baggy is going to make you look bigger (that applies to every body)

Make colours and prints work for you!  Use colour and print to emphasize the parts you like, just keep the print in proportion with your size.  Too tiny or too large or too busy won't be flattering

Choose smart detailing.  Rushing, seaming and contrast can help define your shape.

Don't forget your tailor.  A tailor can help customize your wardrobe - a hem here, a nip there can make a huge impact!  Dress the largest part of you and then see the tailor to take in the rest!  You will have a custom wardrobe and everything will be perfect, now that's worth a few extra dollars!



I love this dress on Amber Riley.  the colour is fun and fresh, very age appropriate.  The cut suits her body - not too tight and not too loose.  It nips in at her waist and is fitted in her upper half.  The lower half flows away from the hips without being voluminous.  the hair and makeup and simple and stunning!




A more casual Amber Riley but I love this too!  the draping at the neckline and the side sleeve rushing is so flattering.  the metallic belt synches her tiny waist giving an illusion of an hourglass and the  military inspired pant is a great contrast and trendy, these pants are a great fit.  the bling in the bracelet and the shoes adds some personality but it doesn't go over the top!  Her hair and make up are perfect too!

No matter your shape and size you can always look amazing!

Easy Pasta Sauces

 The secret to a great pasta dish is the sauce.  And yes, there are many possibilities for sauces: meat sauce, tomato sauce, browned butter sauce, cream sauce and garlic and oil sauce.

Try these tips next time you make pasta sauce for your family!
For a sweeter, mellower sauce, cook chopped onions until softened in a combination of extra-virgin olive oil and butter for your base.
For a more pungent sauce, cook finely chopped garlic in extra-virgin olive oil until just golden. Don't let the garlic brown or the sauce will taste bitter.
Chop all ingredients into even, bite-size pieces or smaller. Pasta is devoured with a fork -- there's no need to add a knife to the mix.
Add sturdier ingredients, like zucchini or eggplant, early on to cook through before adding delicate ingredients, like tomatoes or fish, which will break down if cooked too long.
For egg pasta dishes, reduce the sauce less, as egg pastas will absorb some of the liquid.
For a cheese flavour, add a Parmesan rind to the sauce (great in tomato or meat sauce) while the sauce is simmering and be sure to remove come service time.  The flavour is just fabuous! 
Flavour the pasta once cooked, drain the pasta and pu it back in the warm pot.  Add a tablespoon or two of butter and a few ladles of the sauce to the pasta and stir.  this will give the pasta great flavour and then serve with sauce on top.  Delicious!

Rock Radiant Orchid: This Season's Hottest Colour

So it is official the colour of 2014 is radiant orchid.  Some of you might be asking - what is radiant orchid?  It's an enchanting harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones.  It's fun, flirty, creative, whimsical and very playful.  It is joyful and exudes confidence! 

So how can you rock radiant orchid this season?

There are so many different degrees how you can follow this trend. 

So if you want to be a bit more subtle opt for minimal accessories in this shade so try a clutch purse, a thin belt, a scarf or shoes paired with a basic black outfit but orchid works beautifully with shades of grey, taupe,  navy and chocolate brown and it is so fresh with white

 

What is so great with orchid is that it has variation so you can opt for a deeper purple tone with a bit more drama and richness or you can get bright with the pinker side of the colour.  It's up to you!

Other ways to rock this fabulous colour!

Print in blouses, dresses, skirts and scarves will make a fresh and fashion forward statement and make you the centre of attention.  If you think this colour is too feminine or girly for your edgier style, check out this Alexander McQueen inspired skull scarf.  The skulls give it a tougher feel but the orchid is a nice balance, pair with some spike stud earrings, a leather jacket, cuff bracelet and skinny jeans and you have a perfect look with a bit of rocker/biker and girly.

 

I love the boldness but in a classic like a radiant orchid trench coat, so easy to pair with  work wear or skinny jeans and a great top. It is such a perfect colour for spring so fresh and fun.  I love Lea Michele in this classic coat in the bold colour with a great pony tail and simple, black ballet flats - Perfection!





Or try adding this colour to your makeup - a favourite lipstick shade is by Covergirl in Spellbound.  This colour works on every skin tone and is so fresh for a night out or just when you want to add a bit of colour to your face.  Day or night this works!

Spring Fashion Trends 2014

With this super chilly weather it's hard to believe it but spring will get here!  If you want to know what to expect for spring fashion look no further, here is a breakdown of the most wearable spring 2014 fashions....

Pastels.  This is no surprise, they seem to pop up every spring but how are these pastel different?  we will see pastels in modern cut suits including shorts, structured skirts and dresses, and colour blocking with pastels (mostly with white)



 Bomber jackets.  we will see lots of jackets this spring probably because they are such an easy and versatile piece.  In bomber jackets expect to see a lot of print, texture and mixing of fabrics. the bomber jacket is a perfect casual piece that will dress down an outfit but still remain chic.

 

 Collarless jackets.  Lots of jackets for spring and another perfect layering piece, for the office or an evening out.  This jacket is a bit dressier and longer.  Opt for a neutral one colour or pattern for a timeless look or go bold with colour and print. I love the middle look below with the skinny pant and classic colour palette - it is modern but also timeless chic.





Spring knits.  Lighter and easy knitwear will be seen this spring. Perfect for a more casual office setting when paired with trousers or a skirt.  I love to see this look in a tone-on-tone in classic creams or soft grey. but you will see some spring knit wear in bold colour and pattern.






 Tea length skirts.  This is a new and more specific length of skirt (think between maxi and midi).  this length is very lady like.  to make it more modern pair with a cropped blouse or a tighter silhouette but a tea length dress is perfectly paired with big and bold jewelry. We saw Kerry Washington wear a similar style at the SAG awards in January.







Tuxedo stripe.  We did see a bit of this in the fall but this will be big in the spring season.  The tuxedo (or athletic stripe) on the slim pant.  It just elevates the look overall and adds visual interest to the outfit.It is also a bit of a modern twist.  Personally I love this in a classic colour palette like black and white. But because we are entering the spring season, expect to see this look in softer tones.  I also own two pairs of tuxedo stripe pants and they transition so well from work to night.


 



 Wide leg trousers.  They are back! And they are perfect for spring/summer transition. If you are tall and slim these are very easy to wear (and super chic) but if you are more petite you can still rock this trend just opt for a pair that aren't as wide in the leg but still have that slouchy look and feel.




Cropped jackets.  We will be seeing a lot of styles but no more moto this season but the look is a bit more boxy and less fitted.  these are a perfect layering piece with just about anything, a feminine skirt or dress, a slim trouser and jeans.  I prefer a boxy cut jacket with a slimmer silhouette underneath - it's far more flattering

Hot Baby Name Predictions for 2014

Well, it looks like you are ahead of the curve - if you are naming your daughter a traditional boy's name.! . It turns out this is one of the hot baby name trends for 2014.
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But when it comes to other trends we'll see for baby naming in 2014, Nameberry predicts it is all about the past. The Kansas City Star reports one prediction the baby naming site has for this upcoming year: Parents will revive tired names of family members past. For instance, you may meet a little Ethel, Marge, Bernard, or Gus in 2014.

 

Names inspired by spices, yes I said spices, seem to be hot as well. Consider monikers like Sage, Saffron, Pepper, or even Nutmeg or Paprika if you are into this trend.i guess inspiration can come from just about anywhere!

If spice-inspired names aren't your cup of tea, perhaps you will be inspired by the hottest consonant for next year: the letter "C." Names that start with "C"  like are Courtney, Christian, Cameron, Camilla, Celine, Christopher, and Crista.

Apparently, another one of the hot baby name trends for 2014 is Greek names. Penelope is one example of a Greek moniker that has become very popular of late.Other names like Melissa, Adrien, and Candice are of Greek origin. Who knew? 

 
Nameberry also predicts that certain naming trends will come to an end as we enter 2014. For instance, boy's names ending in the letter "N" (Aiden, Jaden, Dylan) will decrease in popularity. The baby naming site also claims that baby boomer names are becoming increasingly unpopular. So you are unlikely to see too many babies with names like Deborah, Carol, Kathy, Jeffrey, Robert, and Gary.

The Best Big, Fat, Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie

I always try to make homemade goodies for my kids (and husband).  I know what's in them and there is just something about homemade cookies, it's like a big hug!

I love this recipe and it is a favourite with my family




Ingredients:

- 2 cups of flour
- 1/2 tsp of baking soda
- 1/2 tsp of salt
- 3/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup of packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup of white sugar
- 1 tbsp of vanilla
- 1 egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 cups of semisweet chocolate chips

1.  Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).  Grease cookie sheets or line with parchment paper

2.  Sift together the flour, baking soda and salt, set aside.

3. In another medium bowl, cream together the melted butter and sugars until well blended.  Beat in the vanilla, egg and egg yolk until creamy.

4. Mix the wet and dry ingredients together with a wooden spoon and add the chocolate chips

5. Roll cookie dough into balls approx. 1 inch in size and set on cookie sheet about 2-3 inches apart

6.  Bake in preheated over for 15-17 minutes or until edges are slightly golden.  Let cool completely and enjoy!

* You can easily swap out the chocolate chips for toffee chips, mint chocolate chips, white chocolate chips or peanut butter chips or a combination of any of the mentioned.  I recently mixed peanut butter chips with chocolate chips and everyone loved them!

The Calm Down Jar

So I have three very active children and a husband who works a lot of nights, so no day goes without some type of melt down and those are never fun.....the time just before bed seems to be a hot spot for poor behavior in my home. I recently saw a short blurb about the 'calm down jar' - I thought to myself "give it a try, why not"

So easy to make and it works on my children.



You can use it in a few different ways

It would be a great time-out tool.  so your child is in a time out.  Tell them to shake the jar and watch the glitter fall to the bottom 5 times, by that time thet have settled and can join the rest of the group.

It would also work well at calming children in a classroom who need totake a break for the larger class setting

I have used it with my daughter and son for when they are a it too wound up and need to difuse a bit.

there are many different recipes, I chose the easiest one.

I took a mason jar, filled it with water and added glitter.  sealed the top and let them shake it up

Drew Barrymore's Perfect Breakfast Sandwich

Actor, producer, director, mom, businesswoman, beauty mogul, philanthropist - we officially ran out of slashes trying to describe all the cool things Drew Barrymore is. But, it's not just her superwoman résumé we love. Drew brings real-deal passion and purpose to everything she touches. And now, as Refinery29's new editor-at-large, Drew will be dropping in to share her wisdom on work, art, beauty, kids, health, and, naturally, good food - starting off with a recipe for the perfect breakfast sandwich. Stay tuned to this space - major inspiration awaits.


 


I first made this sandwich when I started teaching myself to cook. Not 20 years ago, but very recently. The reason I started officially learning to cook was because when I first got pregnant, I had to face the sad fact that I didn't even know how to boil an egg.


 


No, really! But, this was so not for lack of trying. I've always been one of those people who romanticized cooking, but the few attempts I'd made in my life resulted in friends' contorted faces as they desperately tried to say something nice about the "dish" they were eating. Everything I touched in the kitchen turned out crappy, no matter how closely I followed the recipe or copied the cooking show. So, I just got discouraged and gave up. I can't imagine I'm alone here. But, despite my disappointments, I still engaged in real conversations...the ones where I would talk a big game about how someday I would take legit cooking classes, learn the basics, and finally make my Le Creuset pots proud.

 One more thing: I really did fantasize about becoming sexier in the kitchen once I'd mastered those culinary skills. But, because I was not relaxed, there was (and is!) no sense of effortlessness when it comes to cooking and me.
So, cut to me, baby on the way, and pleading with myself, "You just can't make excuses to your kids that you can't cook." And so, I became determined to learn. Start with the basics and work from there. This was almost two years ago. And, truthfully, I am still only great at one-dish, one-course, one-pot meals. I love soups and pastas, slow-cooked pork tacos, and meatloaf. I am still intimidated in the kitchen, and, sadly, I am still not sexy in there, either. However, I cook for my daughter, and (to my extreme delight!) she eats really well, from salmon and boiled chicken to fresh vegetables and pasta. She's even enjoyed one of my made-from-scratch popovers...admittedly, they're pretty addictive.
Needless to say, I am still a shy cook. I don't host dinner parties, and I am not fabulous. But, I can make food for kids and even the odd surprise for me and my husband. Like this super easy breakfast sandwich, which I'm excited to share with you. And, it was something I concocted all on my own, early in the morning, when I was craving something zesty, fresh, and eggy. To be honest, breakfast is something that always trips me up, because it's the one meal that usually revolves around eggs. What would we do if eggs were taken off the table? I feel like the breakfast universe would implode, and we would all be left feeling lost - and hungry. The key ingredient in this dish, however, isn't the eggs (or even the amazing fresh basil from my herb box and the heirloom tomato that my husband brought home), but the cheese, which I eyeballed in my fridge when this sandwich lightbulb went off. Boursin cheese is this delicious, white, creamy, herbed cheese that's so soft it spreads on anything beautifully. It's fluffy and flavorful yet delicate enough not to totally overpower. Best of all, it's stocked at most grocery stores.

The final step was what was left of some French sourdough bread that I'd shared with a girlfriend over a homemade soup. This crusty bread was the perfect vehicle for my open-faced wonder. I cut a generous half-inch slice off the loaf and threw it in the toaster oven - yes, toaster ovens still rule my world! On the next page is everything you need to copy this fresh and easy breakfast sandwich. And, like any good cook, feel free to improvise (in the comments). I'm always looking for pointers!





 
 



Drew's Open-Faced Breakfast Sandwich
(First things first: Grab a nice napkin - even if it's just you, treat yourself to a morning moment.)
What you need (just double the ingredients for two people):
2 eggs
1 small bunch of fresh basil or about 8 full leaves, washed and dried
1 tomato (heirloom, if possible), cut into generous slices
Black coarse pepper, to taste
1 container of Boursin cheese (garlic or black pepper)
1 thick slice of French sourdough bread
What you do:
1. Oil and heat a cast-iron pan (they're the best for eggs!). When really hot, drop two eggs into the pan and cook for about five minutes, until the edges are slightly brown but the yolks are still loose. Do not overcook!
2. Immediately after dropping the eggs into the pan, pop the bread into the toaster oven and toast to a golden brown (not overly firm); think crusty sides with a little give in the dough.
3. Spread the soft Boursin cheese on the bread (after it has cooled for about one minute), lay basil leaves on top (putting the basil down first will help it not get soggy). Layer on tomatoes, then top with eggs. Add some fresh ground pepper, to taste. After admiring it for a second, cut down the center and let the eggs run down through the bread. Now, just take your knife and fork and enjoy. I hope you like it!

Milk Substitutes - the best and worst

It used to be that milk substitutes were mostly for the lactose intolerant, but now dairy-free milk is sought after by vegans, health experts and those just looking for a tasty alternative to cow’s milk. On this episode of The Perfect Bite, host Andrea Jenna is joined by registered dietitian Christy Brissette. They take a look at five different milk substitutes to determine which is best for you.

Milk alternatives are often touted as a healthy option -- but are they really good for you? (Thinkstock) “From a taste perspective, I think they’re all a little bit different,” explains Christy. “Some of them are more on the watery side, other ones are creamier, but compared to cow’s milk, they don’t naturally have calcium in them. So you want to make sure you choose a milk alternative that contains at least 30 per cent of the calcium that you need in a day, as well as 45 per cent of the vitamin D to make sure that you can use it as an alternative to milk.”

If you are going to enjoy this milk alternative, what’s the best way to do so?

“They go great in all kinds of different recipes. You can use them in cereal, put them in smoothies or just drink them as well,” she says.
But how do they actually taste and measure up health-wise? You’re about to find out.


Manitoba Harvest Hemp Bliss Original Organic Hemp Beverage (1 cup (250 ml), 80 calories, 5 g fat, 90 mg sodium, 6 g sugars, 2 g protein)
“That’s sweet,” remarks Andrea after taking a sip.
“It tastes very watered down somehow,” says Christy.
“But there’s definitely an aftertaste,” Andrea adds.
With the hemp milk, Christy says you’re getting some omega 3 fatty acids, which gives you a boost when it comes to health benefits.

Natur-A Original Organic Fortified Soy Beverage (Most healthy: 1 cup (250 ml), 100 calories, 4 g fat, 90 mg sodium, 7 g sugars, 6 g protein)
“Definitely the most discoloured out of the lot,” says Andrea. “Not as sweet.”
“It’s more of a mild flavour,” Christy agrees.
Although neither of our taste testers chose the soy milk as their favourite, it came away as the healthiest of the bunch.
“It contains protein, whereas all the other ones are very low in protein,” Christy explains. “It contains as much protein as an egg would, and that makes it more comparable to milk.”
The soy drink came out on top, despite it sometimes getting a bad reputation.
“Because it contains phytoestrogens, or plant nutrients that may act like estrogen in the body, there’s a lot of concern and research looking at that,” Christy explains. “But based on everything we know, soy in moderate amounts, so having two servings per day, actually reduces your risk of cancer and doesn’t have any impact on hormone levels.”


Rice Dream Organic Classic Original Rice Drink (Christy’s favourite and least healthy: 1 cup (240 ml), 120 calories, 2.5 g fat, 100 mg sodium, 11 g sugars, 1 g protein)
“I feel like this is almond milk,” Andrea comments after taking a drink of the beverage.
“Yeah, this is definitely has a nutty flavour to it,” says Christy.
Although it wasn’t almond milk (“You’re kidding!” exclaims Christy when Andrea reveals it’s rice milk), this option won our dietitian over in the taste department.
“I thought it was really neutral in taste, so you could use it in cooking, you could put in on your cereal,” she explains. “It’s not going to overpower things.”
But unfortunately, Christy’s favourite drink is also the least healthy.
“”It’s very high in carbohydrates compared to the other ones, so it’s basically like having two pieces of bread in one cup,” she explains. “It also contains a lot of sugar – 11 grams, which is like putting a whole tablespoon of sugar in each cup. That’s more than double the sugar of the other brands.”

Almond Breeze Original Almond Milk (1 cup (240 ml), 60 calories, 2.5 g fat, 150 mg sodium, 7 g sugars, 1 g protein)
“Almost a greyish tinge to it,” Christy says of the colour of this drink.
“Sweet, but I don’t like it,” Andrea says. “All of these would be good in coffee, that’s all I can say, because they’re sweet.”
The almond milk didn’t win out health wise, but Christy says it is the lowest in calories and the lowest in fat.
So Delicious Original Coconut Milk Beverage (Andrea’s favourite: 1 cup (240 ml), 70 calories, 4.5 g fat, 15 mg sodium, 7 g sugars, 0 g protein)
“It has chunks in it – coconut chunks,” Christy says. “It’s pretty good!”
“It’s not as sweet as the rest of them for sure,” Andrea says about this coconut milk blend.
This one won Andrea’s choice, she says because she loves coconut.
Christy says that the coconut milk should be more of a “once in a while” option because it’s high in saturated fat.