My Super Chic Look for a Holy Affair

That's me in the Blue Dress and Lace Tights

I love dressing up for things. No matter what it is. Even a catholic baptism. Here I am with the in-laws (my sister in-law and her boyfriend were the ones with the baby). 

 

My dress is from Forever 21 ($30), bolero Charlotte Russe ($24), tights K-mart (pkg of 3 $5), earrings and bracelets Charlotte Russe ($4 each). 

My hair was super longer there, and I am glad to say I had it chopped off. 

What do you all think?

Lauren Conrad: Style Icon

Lauren Conrad at her debut runway show for Kohls

I have been a fan of LC's since her arrival and departure of The Hills. She not only has great style, but has used that impeccable style to build a business empire. She has come out with three novels (L.A. Candy Series), a style guide, and designs her own line of clothes for Kohls. I am dying for her new reality series to hit the tube about her professional fashion life (which is supposedly to be directed like The September Issue). Let's take cue from Conrad's swooning, polished style and get ready for some fabulous holiday parties!

Lauren Conrad is about mixing tough with chic. Her current line showed a motorcycle jacket ($72, Kohls) to light flowing minimalist pieces. Conrad was all about keeping the same head-to-toe color for fall. Why not try the minimalist trend seen at Celine or Stella McCartney which inspired Conrad, with a slim one shouldered dress (make sure it has feminine details; i.e. a bow, a flower, etc.) in a soft shade of cream, gray, or nude. Top the dress with a motorcycle jacket in a similar monochromatic hue and finish off the look with a suede platform pump or ankle booties in a similar color as well.  To make it your own, find a chain link quilted purse in a bright color, some liquid eyeliner, red lips, and cat-eye sunglasses in a tortoise shell framing.

LC's version of the tough meets chic trend

If you need the look to go from day to night, lose the leather jacket and add a brown leather waist belt instead. Make sure to cover up with a similar hued bolero or shrug.

This look would be perfect for an office party (just make sure to keep count of those cosmo's, you are wearing a dress and your BOSS is there!) or a more uptight family affair, i.e. meeting someone other than his parents (could you imagine his mother's face when she sees the leather jacket! Unless she is super cool and wears leather too, I do not advise wearing the jacket...). Have fun darlings, you will be the best dressed in the room (as always). So go out and crush a cup of wine!

Fashion Mannerisms

Style is a personal language, a morse code of colors, a communication in couture.

Style is living later than those five minutes of fashionable, being boss beyond a tiny time and place, revealing your personality when covering up.

Style is how Audrey Hepburn twisted a men’s buttondown into a blouse, how you make your littlest black dress your own... 

Stylist: Interpreters of Fashion

What Does A Stylist Actually Do?

Fashionista is my favorite fashion website. Lately, I have not really been up to par on my fashion reading. I know, I know shame on me. Distractions come as they easily go and are always replaced again. 

Sally Lyndley is a stylist that writes for Fashionista. She has come up with this amazing on-going running piece called "Sally's Styling Seminary" for all of us whom are aspiring to be in her shoes. With the Fall 2011 fashion shows just around the corner (yes, the fashion shows do not actually go with the seasons), I thought it would be nice to share this knowledge with all of you. Check it out and you will see why its one of the major aspects that I love about fashion. 

Setting up a styling business 

A stylist's role on the runway 

The most important tool... 

The secret weapon 

Style Lineage 

A Baroque Christmas

I hope all of my followers and readers had an amazing November and enjoyed all the holidays in between.

It has been much too long since my last post, however I have sparked this new found interest and inspiration to endure my ever slow RAM and trudge through and get my fashion posts out there.

Enough about me and more about fashion! We are deep within the holiday season so dressing the part is absolutely crucial. When I think of dressing for a holiday party, get-together, or event I imagine glitz and glamour, rich fabrics and textures, and metallics.

Nothing fits the bill better than the Baroque and Roll trend from the Fall 2010 shows. The look straight from the runway includes brocade, jacquard, and velvet. The key not not looking like Louis the XIV, is to balance such opulence with a slim pencil skirt, skinny trouser or jean while adding a touch of tough with biker boots or serious strappy heels. Dark colors work the best against such luxurious fabrics. Try a baroque coat, blazer, dress, or pants. Each piece will not just feel festive but will also have a bit of joie de vivre.

Charlotte Russe has a fabulous blazer for 39.50.

So get a little baroque and rock around that Christmas tree.

Sweater up Chicago

I have a new article up on Examiner.com be sure to check it out. (Click article)

Tavi Update

Tavi is the one directly above with the glasses 

So remember how Tavi got the gig styling for Alice+Olivia? Maybe, maybe not-well the point of the matter is, her "amazing sense of self" (according to Stacey Bendet of Alica+Olivia) landed her another gig. Apparently, Stacey thought it would be "fun" for Tavi to style "the bands". Meaning The Pierces and Amanda Blank. The best part is what she wore to this charming opportunity (sarcasm).

Gossip Girl and Tim Gunn

Tim Gunn was featured in the latest episode of G.G. He was the perspective job opportunity for Little J. About a month ago, he was ranting about his encounter with Taylor Momsen while filming this episode. He claimed she was "...pathetic and couldn't remember her lines..." At one point he even called her a brat. After seeing the episode all I could do is laugh at his neurotic rants because his acting was about as exciting as a wet rag.

Well Mr. Gunn, you should really keep your nasty little comments to yourself because your acting really, really stinks. I don't know why we are all held hostage by an angry wannabe designer/stylist whom him self has no sense of fashion.

I mean come on, anyone can cross their arms, put their index finger to their temple and raise their eyebrow.
Tim Gunn should have been mentoring Taylor, not trying to start a war.

All I can say is "Really, Tim Gunn? Really?"

Completely Inspired by Emanuel Ungaro

You know when you feel old, when you remember a trend the first time around. I was watching the "righteous" movie Clueless today and noticed how a lot of the trends going on for fall/winter 2010 is from the late 80's early 90's.
It's bad when I find a white hair, no-not gray, a freaking white hair, but when I remember the trends and wore them too. I am sure I am getting tons of eye-rolls right now, but I am having my first official "Shit, I am getting old" moment.
Okay, it's over.
Moving on.
So, Emanuel Ungaro's F/W 2010 collection is very reminiscent of the posh 90210 scene (not to mention the show). Satin party dresses, bold colors, and polka dots are perfect for the girl that's looking to have fun during this drab and deary time. Red, fuchsia, and emerald green make chiffon, tweed and leather will give you a break from the minimalist or ladylike trend. I know I am looking to wear something that say "I am not a wallflower" and go to a great party, so I know I will defiantly be following this trend.
Here are some pieces that I know I am going to get and you should too:

Green leather jacket- make sure it is asymmetrical and cropped (cropped styles are more flattering)
Green onyx cat-eye earrings- great to polish up a look, evening classy enough for a cocktail party
Glenn plaid pencil pants- a touch of menswear with a touch color such as blue will punch up your work day
Platform pumps-in leather or suede look great in a red, periwinkle, or green
Rosette gathered dress- specifically from Forever21 
Envelope clutch- patent leather or embossed croc look fabulous
Polka dot skirt- draped chiffon will make it more 90's Gilbert Grape than 50's I Love Lucy 
Word pins- I like ones that say sweet things like "love" or "psych"


Hopefully someone will be host a party soon, well what am I talking about, the holiday season is on its way! More opportunities for you to try out some Emanuel Ungaro!

Fifties Redux Trend We All Love

Who does not love Johnny Depp in the 1990 musical Cry-Baby? The clothes are just a amazing.With the fifties redux trend being very big and very in season, why not take some inspiration from the silver screen (a la the Drapes)? We have seen very lady-like trends for fall, but add a little bit more 50's rock to it and you get a rebellious lady.

Cry-Baby (John Waters) is set in Baltimore in 1954, a time where poise was pushed by rebel. The movie is centered around the romance blossomed between Wade Walker (Cry-Baby), a Drape and Allison Vernon-Williams, a Sqaure. The love is not accepted by the Sqaures because the Drapes are known for their turmoil and suggestive attire. The Sqaures are your picture-perfect, conservative Mr and Mrs. Jones types. Won't spoil it for anyone who has not seen the movie (where have you been?), but ones to take fashion notes from are Rikki Lake, Traci Lords, and Iggy Pop.

What makes the Drapes' attire so fabulous is the ever stylish body-hugging pencil skirts, reveling blouses, shorts sleeve sweaters, leather jackets, cropped pencil leg jeans, and greaser hairstyles. All you need is a few pieces, red lipstick, cat eyeliner, and an attitude. Can you dig it?

Motorcycle Jacket: It just invokes bad-girl or rebel. Make sure the leather is soft and the zipper has some serious details.
Ray-Bans: Cat-eye style sunglasses in red, black, or tortoise shell are a Drape or Square must. This gives the redux look a little edge.
Leather Band Watch: A sleek rectangular faced watch with a black leather band will pretty much cover the bad-girl's accessories. Will work for evening and daytime as well. It's tough and elegant.
Pencil Leg Cropped Pants: Also known as the pedal pusher, cuffed at the ankle and in a dark wash will have you swooning! Pair with a leather jacket and kittens heels-meow!
Short Sleeve Sweater: Chunky or cashmere, a perfect combo to wear under a leather jacket or over a blouse. Can be basic crewneck or off the shoulder (think Sandy from Grease).  American Eagle and Victoria's Secret have fabulous sweaters under $40.
Leopard Print Flats or Pumps: This will add the perfect edge of sex, glamour, and lady-likiness. Target has flats for 12.99.
Printed Scarf: Tying a scarf around your neck (not the same reason you did in high school) will add a serious punch to any outfit.

Need more inspiration? Take cue from the runway like Isabel Marant F/W 2010.

So if your 14 you can be a stylist, but not 23?

This is Tavi...um thoughts on the ensemble?

If you are an avid reader of mine, then you know of my dislike of Tavi, the 14 year-old blogger-now stylist for Alice and Olivia. How is it that another girl from Illinois, half my age, gets lucky with her mediocre blog and got to style for fall's fashion shows? Oh, and have you seen what she wears? I do not call that understanding fashion or style, I call that taking inspiration from the bum on Michigan Ave.

A Realistic Do-It-Yourself Edition: Louis Vuitton Bows

In my past posts, I was raving about how I love the lady-like trend that has been gracing the runways (Prada, Louis Vuttion, Miu Miu). It is no surprise that most of us cannot buy those amazing shoes seen on Coco Rocha or Lara Stone, but we can get inspired from them! Why not take what we already have, and make it current?

Welcome to Realistic Glamour's DIY Louis Vuttion Bows 101.

These bows were seen at the F/W RTW 2010 shows on pointy pumps. Think of full skirts, hints of décolletage, and bow shoes. Now, I already know what your think, and no, these are not an eight year-old's bow. This is a flat chic bow. The bow is the essential lady-like accent to complete any ensemble. Here's how to make your own fabulous lady-like pumps:

What you'll need:
A pair of pointed heels
Textured leather ribbon
Scissors
Hot glue gun
Velcro

Directions (makes one bow): 

1. Cut two pieces of leather into strips (one should be 7"x1.5" and the other should be 4"x1.5"). You can play around with the lengths depending on how big you want your bow.  
2. The longer strip will serve as the base of the bow. Place this piece in front of you, horizontally, with colorful side facing down, dull side up. 
3. Starting at the outside edge, fold the leather strip into thirds, gluing each side down (with glue gun, duh!). Final bow should be about 4" long.  
4. To make the bow's knot, take the smaller piece of leather and fold it around the center of the bow. When you positioned it correctly, (make sure the seam is in the back please!) hot glue it into position. 
5. While the glue is drying, cut two pieces of Velcro, measuring 2"x1".  
6. Using the hot glue gun, attach one small piece of Velcro to the back of the bow, in the center. The glue the opposite side of Velcro to the top of your pump, in the center of the cone of point. 
7. Then stick your bow to your pump and here you have your own Louis Vuttion lady-like pumps.  

Inspired from P.S. I Made This

Rachel Zoe is PG!!

This is mah-jor! I absolutely love Rachel Zoe and completely respect what she has done to transform the career of a stylist. She has broke ground that many only dreamed of, myself being one of them. So I am completely thrilled for Rachel on being pregnant! This will only prove to the fashion world that you can have your cake and eat it too!

So congrats Rachel, I am totally looking forward to your possible baby line and what your little darling will be sporting!

W.W.W. Feature: Ari Graynor

I get emails and updates from the fabulous Who What Wear style site. My latest obsession is lady-like style with a hint of sexiness. Picture Joan from Mad Men. Their latest celebrity featurette is Ari Graynor, Boston native with classic east coast style. Check it out and see where I get my sex kitten inspirations.

http://www.whowhatwear.com/website/full-article/celebrity-feature-ari-graynor/

The Lawyer versus the Teacher

The not-so-common Lawyer look a la Reese Witherspoon in Legally Blonde

Two completely different, opposite end of the spectrum, career women; what are they wearing for fall? And can they agree? Possibly agree to disagree?

Anne Hathaway's chic teacher ensemble in Bridal Wars

Up next for realistic glamour...

Fashion Mannerisms

"Good clothes open all doors."
-Thomas Fuller

OMG! GOSSIP GIRL!

Finally, Gossip Girl is back and with a vengeance. I am regretful to say that last season was a little on the dull side (the ending totally made up for the entire season!) and so did the clothes. Since Blair has left behind headbands and Serena taken up 70's glamour, I think we need to pay some homage to the most amazing fashion since Sex and the City. Don't get me wrong, I was obsessed with Blair's romantic ruffles and florals for the first two seasons (I was not in love with the third season's fashion at all), but her new PARIS look (Serena's too) is beyond amazing. Not to mention, I love, love Paris. In my past life I was French (or just went there a lot). So it is my mission in life (well, actually for fall and winter) to recreate some of these stunning looks of Gossip Girl's Paris episodes. Feel free to imitate.You know you love it!

Now, if you have been living under a rock or do not watch the show, you may have no idea what I am talking about. Yet there is hope for you. You can find the past seasons on iTunes or the CW website. You could even watch them from Netflix.

Eric Daman, the French model turned costume design wonder-man is the genius behind all the looks on the show. He also is the creative director for Charlotte Russe (the main reason behind my newest obsession with the store). Oh, and did I mention that he published a book called You Know You Want It , that dishes about his creative genius behind his signature style on G.G. This show is no joke, it has some serious fashion prowess behind it. Take note fellow realistic glamour-pusses.

Blair Waldorf is my absolute favorite on the show and her style is the epitome of upper-class chic. She oozes with glamour. If you noticed, she is gracefully transitioning back to her girlish style of her high school days, but still keeping the look prim and proper. I just love it! Blair is mimicking the voluminous style seen at Prada, Loius Vuitton and Miu Miu for Fall 2010. She is mixing prints within the same color palette. Do not forget a hat or beret! A knit beret is perfect for the changing seasons. I checked out what Forever21 had in stock. I wanted to stick with florals/prints and volume for my Blair look. I like the blues of the season and found many chic looks, all under $40! The blue pastel flower print shift dress is not voluminous by shape, but the ruffles in the front add that volume I am looking for. Would look beautiful with a sequined bolero or boyfriend blazer. I think I will accessorize with black tights, peep toes, and quartz drop earrings. Another amazing dress I found was a chiffon blue print dress with light ruffling and a cinched waist. Very Blair with a very French beret! When Blair goes on the date with the prince/driver who is pretending not to be a prince, she is decked out in Dior. What a beautiful crystal-encrusted bubble dress. I would die just to walk around in that dress in my apartment playing my Wal-mart CD of French Cafe music. Seriously! So, I found the perfect dress to my next party where I can be A) in Blair fashion B) pretend I am French and C) be the best dressed in the whole party! It is a sleeveless black bubble dress (hello! it has pockets!) with a jeweled collar. Some serious heels and earrings would look amazing with this dress! Oh, and don't forget the lace tights too! Patent pumps were Blair's go-to accessory, which would work with all looks. Je'Taime Blair! 

Serena, Serena. Turning heads were ever she goes. Don't you wish you could get every cute and available (she's so done with married men) French guy out there? Why not paint him in nude a la Serena (in his shirt, no less)? I love how Serena's style has evolved. I am really digging this modern meets 70's glamour on her. Serena  loves to flaunt it, but this season she is flaunting it in a more laid back style. Check out her ultra glam mini dress with the boyfriend blazer and oxfords! She is totally following Kate Moss's iconic fashion choices. I think the mix of the high and low pieces seems to suit her the most. She doesn't look sloppy or like she is trying too hard. She is no longer the party girl or the home wrecker, she is more balanced now. I think Serena is at her happy place. Let's see how long it lasts! Hopefully she will head back towards Dan! What's wrong with a chic Step Mom? So I checked out Charlotte Russe, knowing the had more architectural couture inspired pieces. I found a strapless leopard print metallic dress with a pleated tulip hem and belted waist. I thought of pairing it with a silver sequined boyfriend blazer. Ah, how divine! A gold and clear Lucite collar necklace will really make the leopard print stick out! I really love this strapless pleat dress with tulle sticking out from the hem and a waist belt with four studs on it. I think it would look awesome with the sequin blazer too. Make sure to wear some ground breaking shoes, whether it be oxfords or sky high heels, they need to be major.

So whether or not you like or hate the show, I know I love it. I am so glad it is back. I feel like a part of me is back that has been on a horrible, long and distant journey without any contact or any know abouts of what may come or if it was coming back at all. It is a nice and wonderful escape to come home to and indulge in again and again! The show is a way to escape from the hell and torture that I endured all day long. So thanks Gossip Girl!

Blair's Paris look from Forever21

Sequined bolero for Blair's look from Charlotte Russe

Date-night for Blair from Forever21

Blue print chiffon dress a la Blair. Forever21.

Serena's sequined boyfriend blazer vie Charlotte Russe

Pleat tulle pleat dress with studding for Serena. Charlotte Russe

Leopard look for Serena; CR.

The Lucite necklace for Serena's look; CR

Another beaded bolero for Blair's look; CR.

Images from my article...

Examiner is having issues with posting my images and slide show on their site. They are going through a transition with new software... so the issue should be fixed soon, but I wanted to make sure everyone got to see the images that are crucial for the article.

Indian summer in Chicago

Check out my latest article at Examiner.com! We are being blessed with the most amazing weather (watch it will be below zero since I said that!) and it's not time yet to put away the summer stuff and drag out the fall. We are in a limbo period here. In my latest piece, I give you many different looks from the key staples of summer and fall: shorts, skirts, dresses, pants, and tanks.

Chicago Fashion and Styling Tips

Vogue's Sept. Issue and Lady Gaga

I am a magazine junky, true to form. Well, specifically speaking, fashion magazines. Vogue was my first (I think like all fashionistas, it is). Debra Messing was on the cover in a beautiful red chiffon gown. Ever since then, Vogue been my bible, bible of fashion. My favorite time of year is Fall (and Christmas of coarse) when the leaves change, kids go back to school, and fall fashion issues come out. This year I was kind of left like a child after Christmas, when I did not get my Red Ryder gun. I was not impressed with Halle Berry's spread, nor of any of the fall fashion. What has happened Anna Wintour? I love you and your mag, so please, I am demanding fashion; that is all! Fashion is what a fashion magazine does, right? Thanks for the 726 pages of non-sumptuous fall fashion, but I appreciate you trying to expand my vocab. Not.

Onto more pressing matters... it was leaked this morning that LADY GAGA is going to have her own fragrance. True to many pop-stars, I am not surprised she has jumped on the perfume empire bandwagon. However, I am very excited for her choice of scent and how the bottle will look. I hope its spicy and a truly incredible bottle. I might display it.

I was kind of bewildered when I seen the VMA's the other night. I applaud LADY GAGA and all her winnings. She was truly moved by winning all those awards. Clap-clap Miss Gaga. Yet, I am still having nightmares of her meat gown. Let me just say what everyone was thinking: What the fuck? I think McQueen was amazing for sending her many, many gowns for videos, performances, and appearances. R.I.P. Alexander McQueen, however you need to come down from fashion heaven and give her a good talkin' to. PETA, I am sure will be after her sooner or later for that little stunt.

Next.... GOSSIP GIRL FASHION AND FEVER

I am going backstage at Shinedown!!

So what do you wear when you are meeting celebrities? My father won tickets on the radio for Shinedown, Sevendust, Chevelle, and Puddle of Mudd! Not to mention we have backstage passes! I am super excited and about to shit my pants! I have never met anyone important (okay, you know what I mean). Wonder if I am on VH1 or something incredibly cool? Since I am currently packing and in the process of moving, my attire is a little limited.

This is a rock/metal/alternative concert (and did I mention I am meeting them?). I need to dress accordingly. First off no gym shoes, black wedge sandals. Okay, check. Skinny jeans are a must: sexy, comfortable, and will protect my legs from chaffing of spilled beer. Oh, and make me look like I have a butt! Always a plus right? I hit a mailbox (I did literally once! Damn that woman!!), I need a top. I cannot go topless no matter how much the stars would appreciate it, my father and husband would probably not.

Target. Target, the holy heaven of my existence (Forever 21 you are still my lover) has new "pre-fall" pieces out that will be perfect! Mossimo Black label has more edgy/glam-rock clothes right for the look I am going for. I meander in and I spot a beautiful black tunic with rosettes around the v-neck made out of zippers. Oh this top screams sexy, rock, and glamour. I snatch it up and zip over to the jewelry section. Defiantly no necklace, would be way too much. Earrings and bangles or maybe a cuff would be nice. I find the perfect pair of brain chain link earring (double stranded) with the same texture as the zipper rosettes. The cuff I think I want a little contrast. I find the most amazing brass and raw silver cuff. It has black suede lines around it and silver studs.

Perfection. My look is complete. I think I will have an amazing time and look amazing doing it!

(I did purchase an acne kit, scar eraser, battery powered pimple patches, and a microdermabasion mini-peel, hey a girl's got to make sure her face looks good too!)

Check out my article on what to wear to a concert: http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-60065-Chicago-Fashion-Tips-Examiner~y2010m8d10-What-to-wear-to-a-concert-in-Chicago

New Article Up on Examiner

My latest feature is more or less a continuation of the last article. So you get the job your were murdering for, then what? What are you suppose to wear to keep up that perfect little image you portrayed during the interview process? That degree of perfectionism must be kept up at least until the 90-day probational period is over. In my article, I discuss how this can be done and which designers have the hot trends for 9 to 5.

http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-60065-Chicago-Fashion-Tips-Examiner~y2010m7d25-Chicagos-9-to-5-wardrobe-basics

When the job you wanted, isn't anymore

I hate when you get so excited for a job interview, take the utmost care to plan what you're wearing, land the job, then you hate it. This may or may not be my case, but I know it is many others. Why do we stay at jobs that we do not enjoy? The money? Possibly, well who I am I kidding? That is the main reason we all stay and endure pain and drudgery.

I have this rule. I call it the "Three Year Assessment" or "Clothes Out". If I am feeling a little on the latter about my job, I look at my work scenario, have I been there almost three years and my clothes feel right going to this job?: If the answer is yes, stick it out and it could be hormones or a bad week; if the answer is no, time to start applying for bigger and better things. If I have not been at a position for even close to three years, I look at how what clothes I am wearing and how I  feel in them.

I know you may be thinking I have lost it, but seriously, consider the fact. Your clothes tell so much about you. You have no idea how much can be assessed by ones' wardrobe. If I enjoy dressing for work and am wearing my usual stylish pieces, I can chalk up my displeasure to something that may be out of my hands (hormones, crazy co-workers, horrible hours, w/e); if I am not dressing like Jessica there is serious trouble and I need to get out quick.

I learned this in college (yes, that is what I got out of my four years and $30,000 in loans!). I hated college so much that I was wearing yoga and sweat pants almost everyday (almost, because other days I would just wear my scrubs). Scary coming from me right? Yes! It is like a form of clothing/work depression. I even saw a social worker for this. She did not help, but I learned that I had to endure the rest of the school year and then get the hell out! 

The moral of the story is, if your clothes (coveted clothes) are not feeling right when you are in whatever (school, work, etc), it is not right for you. Repeat, it is not the clothes, it is the situation you are in! Am I right or am I right?

Follow me on Twitter

Hey fashionistas! I am on Twitter now. Find me in the fashion section as "realisticglam"

Find me on Examiner.com Now!!!

Don't worry, I still will be posting on my blog! Duh, this is my little fashion baby. I am writing for the Fashion Tips section for the Chicago Examiner. Check me out at http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-60065-Chicago-Fashion-Tips-Examiner~y2010m7d21-Tips-for-interview-attire-in-Chicago

Expect This When You're Expecting

It is official: everyone I know is having a baby. Many of my friends and family have recently had children. With pregnant women all around me, all I can think of is how is that baby bump going to look in the clothes they choose to wear?  

With conception on my own mind (how could I avoid the thought?), my first concern was, "What the hell am I going to wear?" I have been enjoying the utter horror stories of the maternity wear available in our modern day. Now, it has taken a different toll on me. Tired of hearing people say "Just wait until your pregnant" or "You won't look like that when your pregnant," I have decided to go on a mission. A mission to find chic, glamorous, and fabulously priced clothes that are not listed as "maternity". Clothes that the modern pregnant woman can feel good in and confident, while having that smug smile for all those people who hated her figure before she was pregnant. Yes, Forever 21 sells maternity wear now, but the selection is a little limited for my taste. Any questions? Thought not! 

Mothers-to-be, they are really going to envy you now.

As with any kind of dressing, there are rules for your new shape. First off, if you are early on, don't go "shopping happy". Check out what your closet has in store for you already. Remember these shapes, they will be your best friends: Empire, Tunic, and A-Line . These shapes will flatter any which way you will carry.  This is what each shape means and will look like:

Empire: Pronunciation: om-peer: A type of dress or top where the waist line is raised above the natural waistline, sometimes as high as right below the bust. Best on slender-on-top or petite figures, the empire dress creates the illusion of length and camouflages a bottom-heavy figure or thick waist.

Tunic: A loose-fitting garment, sleeved or sleeveless, extending to the knees and worn by men and women especially in ancient Greece and Rome. It is usually made as a long, plain, sleeved or sleeveless blouse. A short pleated and belted dress worn by women for some sports.

A-Line: A cut of garment consisting basically of two A -shaped panels for the front and back, designed to give increasing fullness toward the hemline.  

All of these shapes can be found in tops, blouses, skirts and dresses. How do you wear these shapes? Let me explain...

This is a belted empire top. The pleats around the bust will gently glide over your baby bump. I suggest wearing empire tops or blouses with something tighter on the bottom. For instance, heather gray leggings would look very chic with this top and maybe even some gladiator sandals. In winter this fabulous top could be paired with a light weight cardigan, leggings, and flat slouchy boots. This could also be worn with skinny jeans or an a-line jean skirt.

This beautiful purple empire blouse has delicate rosettes under the bust. You can also see it has a halter neck line, this is another flattering detail. The kimono sleeves will hide any "bat wings" or flabby-ness. Same rules for bottoms do apply with this top. 

This top is a little more difficult to identify as empire. The waist line is not directly under the bust, where as most commonly it is. Here, the waist line is about three inches down, however, this will draw the attention to your chest. This is your chance to show off those new girls. This style of empire has more pleating and is not as long in length. The best way to wear a top of this design is with an a-line pencil skirt or jeans. Make sure to accessorize with that plunging neckline! Some bright Lucite baubles with look incredible.

In this style of a dress, you will look like a Grecian goddess. You may feel as big as a house, in this style of a dress, you will defiantly not look it! This empire dress has pleats around the bust that flows to the hem, making your legs look a mile long. Check out that neck line! This is a gorgeous dress that will flatter any one. If you are afraid your arms will look like sausages, then throw a bright colored shawl over them or try a black bolero. Don't forget the metallic wedges ladies!

This is a super trendy a-line dress. The cut is similar to the empire as far as pleating goes, but the bottom is like two "A" shaped panels. See how it is smaller at the waist, then it expands as the dress flows out? Take a note from our female ancestors of the 1950's and 1960's. The a-line reigned supreme and there wasn't a day these women did not look chic or not put together.

I can hear the sounds of eyeballs jumping out of their sockets! Do not fear! The tunic is wearable, and yes in bright-loud eccentric prints. Whomever came up with the term "confinement" for pregnant women should be shunned or stoned to death. I can completely picture my sister-in-law in this. The tunic is more flowy and does not really have a shape. Why it is your friend? Well, it gives you more room for that baby bump, and the rest of the fabric will just fall into place. Trust me. If you still feel a little moo-mooish toss a black waist belt under your bust, above the bump and your good to good. You can easily wear this dress with ballet flats, sandals, boots, even leggings with Converses.

Being pregnant does not mean that you must compromise your style or among other things (think of what Katherine Heigl says in Knocked Up). If any of you adorable preggo fashionistas need style advice, questions, or even concerns post or email me!

Here are a few more preggo chic pieces:

All pieces can be found at FOREVER 21 and are all under $30.