How to Rock a Trend: Emerald!

Happy May! This is my favorite month, and for good reason. Spring is in full swing, the weather is consistently great, and both my sister and I celebrate our birthdays. Another awesome thing about this month is its birthstone: the emerald. Its intense green color, which made this gemstone one of the most valuable in the world, has become very popular in clothes, makeup and accessories, especially this year. The world's leading authority on color, Pantone, declared emerald the "Color of the Year" for 2013, so you'll definitely want to work it into your spring/summer style. And while I'm definitely in favor of adding a few jewel-toned pieces to your wardrobe, the easiest (and cheapest!) way to add a pop of green to any outfit is with makeup. Below are some of my current favorites:

 

Nail Color

Both of these are Sephora brand nail lacquers: Green Generation is the shimmering color, while Picnic in the Park is the flat color. They are only four bucks a piece, and a great way to start experimenting, if you're nervous about wearing this color on your face. Any skin tone can pull off green nails, and the short, fat brush that comes with all Sephora nail lacquers makes it easy to do your mani yourself.

Eyeliner

Eyeliner is a good first purchase if you want to try an emerald eye color. You can wear it alone or with neutrals and golds for a natural, yet sexy look with a twist. Later, you can layer it with more dramatic looks and pair it with a green shadow for a really intense concentration of color. The pencil here is from Urban Decay, while the liquid liner is from Stila.

 

Eyeshadow

If you're feeling adventerous, an emerald shadow is a must (Goodness, does that rhyme?!). Makeup Forever has two of my favorite emerald eyeshadows right now. The first is a loose pigment, while the other is a more traditional eyeshadow. Both are highly pigmented, which is exactly what you want in an emerald eyeshadow. The trio, by Smashbox, is great because you get the green shadow (this one is called Serpent), plus two other versatile colors that you can--and should--wear both with and without the green.

 

All off these items are available online from Sephora, which did an entire emerald collection with Pantone featuring eye shadows, liners and brush collections.

Dating & Mating: How to dress on a first date

I'll let you in on a secret: I'm single. Yes, I know what you're thinking. "Not you Bree! How is this possible?!" I too have these same thoughts, lol. Regardless of the reasons, I have my freedom papers and am enjoying my new found singlehood, which includes many dates. Tempering that excitement is the anxiety of trying to figure out what to wear on a first date. So, I've decided to share my in-depth research and interesting findings.  After reading popular magazines, asking women and girlfriends... I then chucked that info. I figured I'd ask who mattered most- the types of men I wanted to date. Gathered men! So I'll share my findings about what creates the best impressions in gathered men's minds regarding first dates. Here are some general rules to follow:

• Don't dress for women, i.e. Super trendy, intimidating fashion (heel-less shoes, channeling your inner beyonce/lady gaga diva outfits). A good rule of thumb is: imagine or ask your girlfriend's reaction to your outfit when she first sees you. If she screams "Fierce! Work! Beat! Diva! or any other Zoolander terms- it's too much for a date. Good words are "super cute, pretty, beautiful, lovely, good/great, even "hot" is okay.
• Less is more: make-up should be simple and not complicated (no rainbow eye shadow). focus on one facial feature to enhance (lips- vs- eyes). You don't want red lips and dark smoky Cleopatra eyes.
• Grooming is everything. There's a reason Outkast made a whole song about being "So fresh and So Clean". Remember the small details: neat manicure and pedicure, arched eyebrows, moisturized skin, clean hair. Basic stuff. (also see Back to Basics Pt. 1 and 1.5)
• Take the sex appeal between a 6 and 7 on the sexy scale. A Zero would be a muu muu or shapeless jogging suit. A 10 would be a heavy cleavage, leg and thighs exposed, and form fitting to your hips and butt, thus showing all your lady lumps. You want intrigue and suggestion, not a huge red light district sign.
• Aim to show 40 percent of your body. Studies show this yields the most male reaction and attention. Again, the point is suggestion. A first date outfit is like a movie trailer. How, you ask? Well, everyone hates when a movie trailer shows too many action scenes or funny jokes. It makes the movie lose it's luster and you wonder if the movie has any substance beyond all the flashy spoilers. A man will still  try to see the movie, but he may wait for redbox instead of choosing the box office opening weekend $14 ticket. You are worth opening night behavior!
• Stay prepared (See 7 items for your clutch). Bring a jacket of some sort. You won't ever regret it. And if it's too hot, he can hold it for you. That's what gathered gentleman do.

Keep in mind that these are first date options, which are about impressions and set how he unconsciously thinks and behaves with you. Once you snag him as your exclusive man or husband, then you can go crazy and walk around in your muu muu or head to toe animal print catsuits! Just kidding, stay calm and dress gathered. Here are some examples of good date outfits:

Date Option 1:  Lunch date, Movie date, Casual Date

This look is perfect for dating in your 20's. Generally the tone of the date is casual, won't include active movement or sports, and may not cost big bucks. This look conveys femininity without pretentiousness. The dress can be in any color, and is flattering on most body types. The shoes have sex appeal without the intimidation or discomfort of a full on high heel. The purse can be easily carried  across the body if you take a scenic walk.

Date Option 2: Live music concert, Art walk or show 

 This look screams "I'm cool." Which you obviously are. The top is a sexy combination of leather and exposed decolletage. The jeans balance the top, but shows peeps of leg. The shrug is sheer. The suggestion factor is high on this outfit. The shoe is great for walking or standing long periods of time (thick heel, less than 3 inches, toes covered in case of concert misstep). 

Date option 3: Park Picnic, Flea Market, Beach, Outdoor activity

 Have I mentioned my love of rompers and playsuits? If I haven't let me shout if from the rooftops! They can be extremely versatile and stylish. They eliminate having to match pieces. The cuteness of a dress, with the flexibility of shorts. Le awesome. Men find these appealing because they have a youthful charm and show lots of leg. Make sure it's a good fit (not too tight or baggy) in order to keep the sexy in target zone. I paired this with a natural make-up like NARS orgasm blush and simple accessories. 

Date Option 4: Cocktail event, Fancy dinner date, Theatre

 These dresses are prime examples of the 40% law of attractiveness. Shoulder action combined with some leg display is ideal. I've tested this theory out many times, it works. Opting for a body conscious fit pushes it higher on the sex appeal scale, so covering cleavage is important. The middle look is a an awesome plus size choice. Make sure you use proper supportive undergarments to make these look flawless. Simple jewelry, strappy heels, and signature clutches make these looks chic and sexy. 

Do you have a first date that doesn't fit into these categories? Need help? Write us at thegatheredlady@gmail.com and we'll help you figure out great styling for a first date. Do you have pictures of your first date outfit that rocks? Email or tag us on facebook, twitter, or instagram @Thegatheredlady and if we like it, we'll share it!

Weekend Fashion Mash-up (April 27, 2013): The perfect cat eye

Cheers to the weekend! It's Saturday and the perfect opportunity to rock some sexy weekend style. Check out the videos below for the perfect cat eye. I really enjoyed the idea about using tape in the second link.

 Also, JCP is having a huge spring sale. They have some great items like denim jacket, printed pants in plus size,  floral pants and skirts all at great P.I.N.P prices! Happy Shopping :)

 Have a hot outfit that will inspire others? Submit your fit to thegatheredlady@gmail.com and if we like it, we'll share it. Here's one from my closet:

Spring/Summer 2013: Shoe Faves!

If memory serves, I have already copped to my shoe obsession, which means there is little need to provide a legitimate explanation for this particular post. Like many fashion-minded women, I enjoy spending a little time browsing the collections from my favorite designers each season. And while I pay attention to everything from dresses to accessories, I'm particularly partial to the shoes. Now, there are several shoe trends that are must-haves for the spring, but that's another post. What you're about to see here is sheer, unadulterated, unapologetic shoe-p0rn. Below, I've assembled a choice collection of the latest offerings by a few of my favorite labels. These shoes are, for the most part, completely impractical, hideously expensive and absolutely beautiful. I'll tell you a little about each grouping, assuming you're still reading instead of just staring...and drooling on your keyboard.

 

These shoes, from Christian Louboutin, are both fabulous and fun. The bright colors are perfect for spring, while the (fairly) moderate heel-heights make these some of the most wearable shoes in this post. What I love best about these shoes is how playful they look. High fashion usually takes itself very seriously, so it's great to see a designer bringing levity to his work. After all, sometimes a girl wants to look more flirty than fiece.

Guh. Nicholas Kirkwood could probably be filling galleries in Manhattan and London with expensive sculptures, but I'm glad he's creating shoes that look like high art instead. While his is the newest label on my list, Kirkwood's architectural designs are as innovative as they are beautiful, and I think his line will only become more distinctive as time goes on. Eventually, his artful creations may be as recognizable as Louboutin's red-lacquered soles.

The late Alexander McQueen was known for creating daring, dramatic clothes, and the lastest collection from his design house certainly lives up to that reputation. Everything about these shoes is bold, from the contrasting colors, to the exaggerated curves and lines, to the sky-scraper heights. Despite the drama, these shoes do have some versatility that an adventerous (and well-heeled) fashionista could take advantage of.

 

What shoe list would be complete without Jimmy Choo? The main shoe here is aptly called "Taste" and while I've seen it in black on several celebs, I think this tangerine version is perfect for the spring. This final grouping has a little something for everyone, whether you're a bit more convservative in your fashion choices or a total wild child. I, of course, love them all.

This is just a small selection of the SS2013 shoes I will likely style-stalk -- the official process of obsessively tracking a shoe until you find it at a price you can live with. So, tell me, what are your newest shoe favorites? Email the thegatheredlady@gmail.com, and if we love it, we'll share it!

Back to Basics, Pt. 1.5: Panty Pros vs. Panty Pas

A continuation of last week’s gathered panty primer brings us today’s installment, Back to Basics Pt. 1.5: Panty Pros vs. Panty Pas. What are panty pros? What are panty pas? Allow me to explain. And give examples. With pics!

A panty pro is a gathered method or technique employing the use of a panty to support, control, protect, enhance, or seduce.

A panty pas (pronounced panty “pah”, as in faux pas) is an ungathered failure to employ panty pro know-how, resulting in panty fails and various wardrobe malfunctions, i.e. panty lines, wedgies, bunching, rolling, sagging... fail, Fail, FAIL!

Observant fashionistas will be nodding their heads by now as they have seen panty pros and pas because it is very real out here in these streets in real life time and again. With caution, you can avoid this and be known for being a pro, not making faux pas! Here is a list of 6 panty pros to employ and panty pas to avoid. It’s a great list of dos and donts when making your underwear selection for an outfit.

1. Panty Pas: Visible Panty Lines  vs. Panty Pro: Invisible Panty Lines 

Horrors! Visible panty lines, or VPLs, show up when panties have been selected to go with a fabric that is more elastic or lighter weight (jersey, jersey knit, matte jersey, light cotton blend, some polyesters, etc.). The way the fabric of the clothing lies along the lines of the body showcases the imprint of your panties perfectly. Fight this! 

Obviously, we're looking for invisible panty lines, ones that contour to the body, are comfortable, and lend a little shaping to that rear end are ideal, but at the very least, panties shouldn't show. We want to give the world a chance to notice our world-class curves. See what I mean? 

2. Panty Pas: Whale Tail vs. Panty Pro: Panties invisible above the waistband!  No orcas or humpbacks in pants. 

Noooooo! This is the perfect storm of fashion fails comprised of:

1) The rise of your pants and the rise of your panties do not match.

2) Your jeans may be too small in the seat.

3) The cut of the pants don't flow with your curves.

4) You may need a belt to hold the pants at the correct point on your waist.

To combat this, wear hipster or other low rise panties, but first make sure that your pants fit by "sit testing" them when you try them on. Bottom line: no panty choice can help when sitting down gives you a case of plumber's butt. Avoid crack, ladies... it kills! Make excellent fashion your drug of choice like these fashionistas... 

 3. Panty Pas: Panties bunching above the waistband vs. Panty Pro: Panties invisible above the waistband.

This one is another case of rise being the issue. Granny panties can be useful under long flowy skirts or for that time of the month perhaps, but employ judgement about the rise of the pants or skirt you wear when you're going to wear higher rise panties like classic panties and control panties. 

4. Panty Pas: Color or pattern of panties visible through clothes vs. Panty Pro: panties invisible through clothes. 

 Under white or transparent fabrics, underwear can easily become a peepshow for pervs. Don't help them along by picking the wrong panties! 

1) DO NOT wear white underwear under white. It looks like you're waiting for the wet t-shirt contest to begin. And you're probably not. Instead, wear nude or black underwear. 

2) For super transparent fabrics, add layers by wearing a boyshort or slip. Again, choose nude or black. 

5. Panty Pas: Panties not supporting tummy or mid-section vs. Panty Pro: Panties supporting and controlling tummy

Um... I'm pretty sure that "lovely lady lumps" was mostly meant figuratively. What are you doing, accentuating the negative and downplaying the positive? Panties are a basic way to control and support some of those mid-section areas that does not include turning blue and fainting from holding your breath and "sucking in" like granny used to do. It's a no-brainer. Buy some control panties and higher rise types to pair with structured and tailored pieces. There's a whole world out there, and Spanx is only the beginning, although a favorite with a lot of gathered celebs.

6. Panty Pas: Wedgies, camel toes, moose knuckles and other uncomfortable nonsense vs. Panty Pro: Panties that fit!  

I know. You looked at this one, and said... panties that fit? Revolutionary. What a grand finale. But it really is, ya know? For some reason, many ladies buy their panties too small. I have no idea why they would do something like that besides vanity, but the truth is, no one knows what size undies you wear. If a pair shrinks, is stretched, or fails in some other way, it needs to be replaced. Gained some weight? Don't be afraid to march right into somebody's store and buy some bigger undies. It's just not worth the wedgie... or the camel toe... or whatever will plague you! Let your bottom be smooth and wedgie free.