Ask Elle

OK Elle,

Since you were all up and through Fashion Week, I know you've got the HOT stuff right from the runway. Help a plus-size sista out! I've got a formal ball to go to and I don't have a thing to wear in my closet. I need to know where I can shop for plus-size formal fashions that are within my budget of $250-300, that will be age appropriate (40-50) and turn the heads...for sure!!! Please give me the low-down on what's flattering these days...mama I needs visuals!

Desperate...
Sherry


Hi Sherry-luv!

No worries, cupcake, I have the perfect dress for you! Plus size glamour girls in search of fabulous formal wear should look no further than Monif C., a well-known plus size designer with a boutique conveniently located right in NYC. Monif C.'s line has been featured on Rip the Runway, in Essence and in many other noted fashion zines.


My favorite current piece in her line is the Marilyn Convertible Dress, a definite must-have for the season. It is a convertible dream! It can be tied and styled in at least 22 different ways, including as a halter dress, a dress with sleeves, a skirt, a baby doll top, and more!


Made of luxurious jersey, it is as comfortable as it is flattering. The best part? It fits sizes 8 through 24 and comes in a number of trendy colors.

There are even instructional videos on all the different ways to wear it! Click here and here to watch and learn!

For a less formal affair, I would also give the a shorter, cocktail version a go!


Try this one on for size, Miss S., I promise it will live up to your every expectation! Thanks for writing!

xo, Elle

Ask Elle

In this Ask Elle post, searching for Beyonce's "Diva" glasses, the dry skin blues, the necessity of eye cream and what to wear to a March wedding in Houston...

Hi Elle,

I read your post about some fashions Beyonce wore in a photoshoot. It impressed me that you knew the designers, prices and websites. Do you happen to know who made those metal-fringed sunglasses in the Diva music video? I thought maybe Bless did. But I don't know where to find them. Thanks for your time.

Best, Karen

Bless Fringed Glasses S/S 09

Hi Karen darling! Ah yes, Beyonce's infamous metal fringed glasses. People either love them or loathe them, no? The entire "Diva" video is chock full of high fashion, aka ish that you wouldn't catch the average person in their right mind wearing. Her ultra avant-garde looks are straight off the Gareth Pugh runway, but in terms of her fun fringed glasses, you are correct in that they are largely thought to be by Bless. Bless is a Dutch-bred, Paris-based design duo who debuted metal fringe sunglasses at Paris Fashion Week last fall. The Bless S/S 2009 clothing/accessory collection featured a bunch of interestingly draped glasses...they are more like facial art than fashion accessory! Although Bless is sold in select stores in America, unfortch you are not likely to find Beyonce's pair in stores. Althought I haven't spotted any yet, your best best is to wait around for a good copy to debut (think Urban Outfitters, Topshop, or Canal Street this Spring). Until then, if you're totally jonesing for some metal fringe in your life, check out this necklace by ASOS...

Long Metal Fringe Drop Necklace $16.16

Good luck!



Elle,

OMG this Chicago winter has my skin looking dry and lifeless. Any suggestions? I need it to brighten up!

C.

Hey C-luv! I'm so glad you asked, as this is problem that sooo many of us face. Cold dry air wreaks havoc on our skin! In terms of your gorgeous mug, let me suggest Elle's At Home Spa Facial, which should have your face glowing in no time. Most importantly, make sure you're using a creamy face cleanser, rather than something alcohol-based that will only exacerbate dryness. For your body, use the three-step moisture trick that I swear by during the winter months. 1. Start with a cream-based body cleanser with added moisture (my current fave is St. Ives Oatmeal and Shea Butter Moisturizing Body Wash). Stay away from bar soaps that can strip your skin of much needed moisture! 2. Après bath, while you're still a tad damp, slather on some body oil. Body oil is my favorite winter skin solution, because nothing will get your thirsty skin glowing faster. Right now I'm using Nivea Smooth Sensation Body Oil, but you can also check out a post I did on some of my other favorite body oils, here. Finally, after you're cleansed and lubed, top it off with a ultra-moisturing lotion or body butter. Check out this list of the Best Products for Dry Winter Skin, which should point you in the right direction. Happy glowing! And don't worry, Spring will be here before we know it.


Hi Elle!

How do you feel about eye cream? Are we too young for eye cream? One of my friends mentioned it to me and now I'm obsessing. She said it would be a good idea to start using it now so it would prevent any issues in the future.

Danielle


Glad you asked! I used to use eye cream religiously when I was 27...for some reason that age just screamed eye cream to me. Since then I got over it and moved on to other unhealthy obsessions, but now that I'm turning 30 (clutch pearls here), it seems to be the perfect time to get back on the eye cream bandwagon. Eye cream protects and moisturizes the delicate area around our eyes, and many women would say that you are never too young to start an eye care regimen. I don't know if I would go that far, but since it is a preventative measure, it certainly wouldn't hurt to start now. Just remember that you don't need to spend a your savings on super expensive lotions and potions, there are plenty of affordable options out there.

If you are already noticing wrinkles or dark circles, you may want to go with a more pricey cream. Many women swear by Shiseido's Benefiance Eye Cream, $50 and Shiseido Skincare Eye Revitalizer, $40. They won't eliminate wrinkles, but will help to firm up fine lines. If you wear eye makeup during the day, try MAC Fast Response Eye Cream, $28.50, which has caffeine for puffiness and silica to absorb oil and keep shadow in place. I've also heard good things about Olay Regenerist Eye Lifting Serum, $18.99. And since there's essentially no difference between the skin around your eyes and the rest or your face, you can always use your face lotion as an eye cream. Essential Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 15 With Antioxidants for Normal to Dry Skin made by Paula's Choice, $12.95, is a great face lotion that can double as an eye cream. Finally, get eight hours of rest every night and drink water religiously. Simple, but true.

Hey fashion bitch!

I need some suggestions. I'm going to a wedding in March. It was brought to my attention that this event is black tie. The actually wedding is March 14, which technically is still winter, but the wedding is in Houston, Texas so it might be Springish there. What do you think I should wear?

-Miss T.

Hey missy poo! So from what I hear, March is one of Houston's nicest months, with weather ranging from 70 to 80 degrees. Nice! That's the perfect weather for dressing up without breaking too much of a sweat. So for women, black tie means that either a floor-length gown or a super dressy cocktail dress is in order. Beading, sparkle and glam accessories are also totally appropriate. This is a great opportunity to pull out that bridesmaid's dress that you actually liked or to wear that sequin cocktail dress that you've never found the appropriate venue for. But if you don't think there's anything lurking in your closet (always start there first), I have a few suggestions.

Laundry Silk Charmeuse Gown $147.50

JS Boutique Satin Dress $77.90

Suzi Chin Dress $88.90

Maggy London One Shoulder Gown $78.90

You'll look sensationally seasonal in a berry-colored dress like those pictured above, and paired with a metallic clutch and heels, you'll be black tie beautiful!

Thanks to all for writing!

Check out all my previous Ask Elle columns, here!

Ask Elle

Hello Elle! I read your blog everyday and even recommend it to my friends. You always have interesting topics. Wanted to ask a favor. I'll be attending several events the next coming weekends. First is a baby shower, then a wedding 07/19/2008 then finally a gala on 07/26/2008 before my African traditional wedding. Can you help me? I'm going crazy and I'm on a budget. I have a 4 month old. Thank you. -M

Hey Miss M!

My goodness just reading your email has me stressed! No worries, events on a budget are a breeze if you stick to the designer lines at low-end stores. In this instance, let's make your life easy by doing one stop shopping at one my favorites, Target!

Isaac Mizrahi for Target Taffeta Camelot Dress $49.99

For the baby shower, I would love to see you in this coral colored taffeta dress by Isaac. The silouhette is oh so Jackie O and simply perfect for a "ladies and babies" function.

Isaac Mizrahi for Target Sateen Pencil Dress $39.99

Since you let me know in a follow-up email that you are a size 4, I'm all about showing off your fabulous post-baby body. This strapless pencil dress will hug you in all the right places and the Fresh Lavender color is great for a summer wedding.

Isaac Mizrahi for Target Short Silk Cowl Neck Dress $69.99

On the other hand, if you'd rather go a tad more conservative, try this short and silky LBD with a classic cowl neckline. Make it sparkle with gold or silver earrings, bangles and a nice heel.

Isaac Mizrahi for Target Strapless Sheath Dress $89.99

Now for the gala, I absolutely love this column dress that features the most gorgeous bow in the back. And the price? Amazing! You really can't go wrong with black and white. Add a healthly does of diamonds/CZs and you'll be the belle of that ball!

Darling M, do let me know how it all turns out. And congrats on your wedding! I'm wishing you a lifetime of lasting love, hot sex and a whole lot of happiness!

Double kisses, Elle

Ask Elle

Hey Elle!

i found your blog on the net..its great!!! I was wondering if you knew where i could purchase some of those harem pants online...or the mc hammer pants that cheap monday makes....if you know please please write back!!

Thanks, and again great blog

Shaana

Hi Shaana-luv!

You're clearly a fashion risktaker and a brave girl...I love that about you! We first discussed the craze of the genie pants in last month's TrendWatch, and suprisingly, many people have expressed interest in grabbing a pair. I would start at ASOS.com, which always supplies the most on trend finds on the net. Take a looksee...

ASOS Jersey Harem Drawstring Trousers $38.93

ASOS Jersey Harem Twist Cuff Trousers $43.26

ASOS Lurex All In One Harem Sale price $34.61

The Crop Mahdia Harem Pants By Triple 5 Soul Sale Price: $46.95

I'm totally into the three above but I think this last pair is an example of what NOT to wear. Ew.

Good luck, girl!

xo, Elle

Ask Elle

Dear Elle,

Maybe you can help me, I'm looking desperate for these glasses [seen on Drew Barrymore in Music and Lyrics] for my sister's birthday. She is crazy about them, but I dont know which brand they are. Could you help me?

best regards, theodora

Theodora darling,

Thanks so much for your question. I immediately thought of my blogger friend, Sunglasses Guy of Everything Sunglasses, who excels at questions such as these. Here's his response...

Hi Elle,

Thanks for getting ahold of me. I like these kind of questions.
asdfsa

That model is called Pandora and it is by Oliver Peoples. They are a top end eyewear maker who started and became famous in the late 80's with some retro styles. It will be tough for your reader to find this model, as it is last years', and they don't hold on to their old inventory. You can't even find it on the webpage anymore. There might be some online sites which still have it stocked, but it won't necessarily be the right color. Sometimes they use special models just for the movies (in this case Music and Lyrics).

asdf
The best bet would be to surf around the internet, or go to one of their actual shops and see what they say.

Hope that helps,
Sunglasses Guy

As seen on a model

Thanks cupcake! Sorry Theodora, that we couldn't be of more assistance.

P.S. SeenOn.com is a great site for searching for items you've seen on the big screen and have to have for yourself...check it out!

xo, Elle

Ask Elle

Hello Elle

Its your Haircare Stylist Nicole. Your blog is totally in a word fab. I have a question do you have any websites for large shoe size (12 and 13). Talk to u soon.

Hi darling!

I was so excited to get your question because it gave me yet another reason to do what I do best: shop! I found some fabulous websites (listed below) that offer a grand selection of stylish shoes in generous sizes. Here are my featured picks that would make any shoe-lovah drool.

Zon by Samanta $200

Channel a sexy serpent in these heels. It's the amazing little attention-grabbing touches that are worth every penny. Available in sizes 11-13 at Designershoes.com.

Black Satin Slides $59.99 (down from $75)

A kittenish heel makes even the largest foot look more dainty. I love daring details like the lucite heel and blinged out bow. Available in 14, 15 and 16 (but run small) at Dream Shoes.

Matt Bernson 'KM Gladiator' Sandal $169

So on trend and perfect for stylishly traipsing around your hood. The ankle straps focus attention on the thinnest part of your leg and go just high enough to keep eyes wandering. Available in sizes 11-14 at BarefootTess.com.





Nine West Roussy $73.00

Anyone shopping for shoes online should start at Zappos.com, which has a ridiculous selection (which helps to keep costs down). A search for a dress shoe in size 12 turned up these beauties that look hand-painted and perfect for a garden party.




Daisy Star £50.00

These jeweled low-heel wedges from UK-based Lush Shoes will make your toes happy. Available in sizes 11 and 12.

Love you and I'll be in for a reszjoush very soon,

Elle

Ask Elle

Hey there, I'm Anja from Sweden. I came across your blogg today and i'm LOVING it. It's officially my new favourite blogg. Anyway, I'll be graduating high school this summer and it's tradition that girls wear a white ensemble however we may have a few hints of other colours, e.g. black. I'm going a for a rock-glam look a little a la Rihanna, but still traditional with the white and a little black. I was wondering if you could give me some pointers. I'm looking forward to hearing from you soon. Thanks, Anja

Anja darling,

Thanks for your question! Your studenten, or high school graduation, will be a day and night of jubilant frivolity...champagne, gifts, laughing and singing to your hearts delight! What a perfect time to live out your rock-glam party girl fantasies. I love the fact that you are thinking seriously about your outfit (you're a girl after my own heart, sugarplum). After all, looking and feeling beautiful is the foundation for a fabulous graduation!

Let's start at the top, shall we? Like American graduation caps, Swedish graduates wear a traditional graduation hat, in the form of a much more stylish white sailor-type cap. The studentmössa, as it is called, is actually the perfect accessory for your glam rock look. Glam rock, by the way, is best exemplified by the designs of the Heatherette duo; they have this whole look down to a science.

Heatherette Spring 2008 RTW

For you, my love, the easiest way to go rocker-glam is to start with a flouncy tutu skirt. Tutus are huge for Fall 2008, so you'll be absolutely on trend wearing one.

Miss Rihanna has totally taken advantage of the ballet-inspired look. As a matter of fact, when you think of Rihanna's star style, how can you not think of a tutu skirt and a cinched waist? Here are just a few of the reasons why:







































You can easily duplicate this look in traditional white with black accents. Paris Hilton actually wore an over-the-top version of the look I'm envisioning for you to the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards.


Young, flirty and fun, right? It all starts with the skirt. You can find tulle tutu skirts in vintage stores and at goth or dancewear shops on Ebay. I found these while trolling the Internets:

Romantic Tulle Tutu Starting at: £17.50

(Make sure to wear a slip or dark boy shorts underneath if it is too sheer)

White Adult Tutu Bid now price: $34.00

Tutu Cute Tutu's does custom-made tutus in adult sizes. Not going gaga over the tutu idea? A slightly more subtle tiered skirt can give you the same effect. Brit It Girl Alexa Chung demonstrates this well:

White skirt with tiered bustle $54.99

The best part about these types of full skirts is that they can look great when worn with a simple tank...

Urban Outfitters Racerback Tank $14

Urban Outfitters City Limits Tee $12

...or glammed up with a strapless corset.

White Bustier $45.00

A black belt will pull it all together. Choose a corset style belt to balance out the flounciness of the skirt.

Bebe Black and White Belt $59.00

Linea Pelle Black Belt $97.99

In terms of shoes, you want to wear something you can hop, skip and party all night in. There's nothing worse than having to end a great night early due to a baby toe that's on fire. However, if you are one of the lucky few that can climb mountains in their stillettos, I would wear booties (like both Paris and Alexa demonstrate above). Open-toed summer booties are super chic.

Nine West Heel $81.99

On the other hand, for comfort you can try these:

Target Polka Dot Peep Toes $6.24

Go Jane T-Strap Wedge $21.99

Add some stacked black bangles to one wrist to complete your rocker-glam look, and you're good to go!


So my dear Anja, feel free to take these ideas and make them work for you. You can't go wrong if you trust your own style instincts. Whatever you wear, channel your inner Rihanna and wear it with supreme confidence. I'd love it if you sent me pictures of your day! Good luck, buttercup and have a swig of bubbly for me!

Stay fabulicious,


Elle

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