How to look longer, taller, and slimmer (no diet required)

Anyone who has ever worked with me knows that I really emphasize the illusion of height. By adding height, you will look slimmer and create a more streamlined silhouette. Here are some "tricks" to help give you that look:

1) Wear a higher rise pant/jean/skirt/short. I am talking about pants that are self-described as "mid-rise." They don't feel high, but they do feel different (mostly because you aren't constantly pulling on your belt loops trying to pull your pants up). I suggest pants that hit an inch or two below your belly button.

2) These "mid-rise" pants come in handy this season especially. One of the biggest trends this season is cropped EVERYTHING. From cropped tees to short/boxy jackets, it seems that everything is cropped. This isn't always the best look for everyone but it seems that this style is EVERYWHERE. By wearing pants/shorts/skirts that hit a bit higher, you can help assure that you aren't showing anything that you don't want showing when wearing a shorter top.

3) That being said, shorter tops are a great option for adding height. While I might not love everything about the "cropped trend" that has hit stores everywhere (some are too boxy, some are unflattering in material, and some are just plain ugly), a shorter top, one that hits around your hip bones, along with a mid-rise bottom does really give you the illusion of "legs for days." Our goal is to make your legs look as long as possible.

As I've said before, wherever there is the greatest change in color and texture is where attention will be drawn. SO, if you wear a shorter top that hits just above the top of your mid-rise bottoms, your legs will "start" right where your top ends.

Don't feel comfortable wearing a shorter top? Try wearing a longer top and then throw on a shorter jacket (again, one that hits around your hip bones).

4) When wearing cropped pants, try tucking in your top (leave the waistband exposed) and wear a heel - kitten heels are okay - but I always think "the higher, the better!"

5) Whatever shoes you do wear (flats or heels), make sure that your shoes don't cut of your leg line. I love a fun pair of shoes just as much as the next person - but shoes that have criss-crosses and horizontal ankle straps will cut your leg line off and wherever that strap is, that's where your "leg will end." The most flattering shoe is a classic pump that lets your leg extend all the way down to your toes.

6) When wearing shorts, skirts, dresses and cropped pants - try a nude pump (or a nude wedge)! Make sure to match the nude to your skin tone (don't choose a nude shade that's pinkish when you have an orange undertone). Wearing a nude heel or wedge will give the illusion that your leg just keeps going and going. I LOVE nude heels. 

7) Choose a flared leg jean or pant. I always suggest wearing some sort of heel with a flared pant as flared pants are usually longer than bootcut or skinny jeans. Even if you get them hemmed, get them hemmed to a length that you can wear at least some sort of heel with them. The flare helps create a streamline silhouette which will make you look longer, taller, and thinner. Ladies of every height can wear a flare leg pant - just make sure to add some heigh on the bottom with a heel.

8) Obviously, heels will give you height. Still, it does depend on the situation and the person as to whether or not you feel comfortable wearing heels. Four inch stilettos are't really office appropriate but a nice 2" wedge or classic pump would look great. If you've never worn heels, start small. There are some great kitten heels that will still give you that extra oomph that you are looking for. Pointed-toe heels are best (as they are longer in length). With so many different brands available today, I believe that everyone can find a heel that fits and feels comfortable. Plus, there are so many different inserts, padding, and types of support that can be added to make a heel work for you. A good pair of heels is a great INVESTMENT PIECE. 

9) Longer pants will give you longer legs (sounds obvious but once we put on a pair of pants, sometimes we are too quick to rush them to the tailor). When getting them hemmed, keep these two things in mind:

 - With flats, let the back of the hem just barely graze the floor. Dragging on the floor is not attractive, but leave your pants long enough that the hem ALMOST hits the floor. The goal is to keep as much length as possible.

- With heels or any other shoe, you want to aim for the bottom of your hem to hit 1/2" above the ground. Any longer takes away from your best look. So many times I see women walking around in cute outfits, yet the look is almost ruined when I see a hem that is so high above the ground. Obviously you don't want to trip, but longer is better! Try it for yourself and see.

Unwilling to commit to a certain pant length? There are some options for you so that you can change the hem length depending on your outfit. There is a great product out there called "Hem Gems." You can find them at many stores or online at www.hemgems.com. These little studs can be stuck into the bottom of your jeans and tightened to keep your pants at a certain length. (Click on the link below to see a video on how they work).

 Hem gems video: http://youtu.be/rOcSPMCUSAk

10) Wearing darker colors on bottom will also help give you the height and slimming effect. Wearing darker colors make your eyes contract, making you look slimmer and wearing lighter colors make your eyes expand, making you look wider.

All of these are just some helpful "tricks." I don't really believe in fashion rules, but I do swear by certain fashion "tricks." Apply them as often as you can for the best possible look!

Alexa Chung is a great example of how to add height with a great outfit. Her skirt his just above her knees (about an inch), her flats are pointed toe, the waistband of her skirt is higher and exposed and her top is tucked in. This look is perfection. 

On the runway, models show us how a higher-rise can make legs look miles long. 

Audrina Patridge is a great example of how to wear a flare-leg jean and of how they can contribute to a beautiful look. The length is great (about 1/2" above ground), the waist is higher and her top is tucked in. She looks tall and slim. 

This Christian Louboutin pump is a perfect example of a classic pump. With a pointed toe and an open top, this show will give you beautiful length.

A pointy toe flat, such as the one above, is a great way to elongate your legs, even when wearing flats. I love the idea of pointed-toe flats in bright colors as they can be great accent colors to otherwise simple outfits. 

Jessica Alba looks great in flare leg jeans in a mid-rise, a tucked in top, and a cropped jacket. 

This photo is a great example of where you want the hem of your pants to hit with heels and flats.  

While the shoes don't add to her height (because of the horizontal straps), the high waist of the skirt and the cropped top make for a very slimming look (we can even overlook the shoe in this case!). 

These nude Tory Burch peep-toe wedges are an investment piece. While they are a little pricey, they are an item that can be worn with almost EVERYTHING you own. The height is great for multiple occasions, the color is extremely flattering and the classic style can't be beat. 

Dr. Scholl's makes great shoe inserts for all different issues. I love the "Ball of Foot" gel insert for shoes that are a liiiiittle but too big. The extra padding can make the shoe fit a bit more snug and the extra cushioning is great when wearing a heel that can put a little more pressure on the ball of your foot. 

This J Brand jean is the perfect example of a mid-rise jean. It hits between 1-2" below the belly button. I love this jean!

Reese Witherspoon is a vision in this dress and beautiful nude heels. Look at how they add such gorgeous height to her shorter frame.  

Hem gems are a good option for those of you who can't commit to a certain hem length with your jeans. They allow you to shorten or let out your hem, depending on your shoe. My suggestion - don't choose a flashy style - stick with one that blends in with your jean, attracting the least amount of attention. I don't see them as an accessory, their purpose is better for function. (www.hemgem.com)

So there you have it - some quick and easy ways to add height, look instantly slimmer and give your outfit a nice, long line. Happy heights!

Xo, Kristin @ Kristin Golden Image Consulting

www.kristingolden.com

Frame it! Dressing for YOUR body type

Anyone who has ever flipped through a fashion magazine has probably read about "body types" and how to determine whether they are a "pear" or an "apple," etc. I find those articles to be almost more confusing than helpful. (Who wants to be compared to a fruit?). 

Still, there is a great benefit to knowing your body shape and how to dress for it. Before I go into the different body types and subsequent clothing suggestions, there is one universal rules that is helpful in flattering EVERY body type.

One of the most helpful rules that I follow is what I call "The Golden Mean" (pardon the use of my name)! This rule is important in helping to give you the most flattering "line" and to get you the illusion of height and therefore, a slimmer look.

This rule states that your clothing should never end at the widest part of your body. I know it sounds pretty obvious but you'd be surprised how often we overlook this "rule" and at how big of a difference this makes. You never want your tops to end at the widest part of your hips (cutting your body in half). You don't want your sleeves to hit directly at the middle of your elbow (cutting your arm in half) and you don't want your short/skirt/dress to hit at the center of your knees, (cutting your legs in half).

My fashion philosophy is that trying to squeeze people into one particular category is too limiting. I also think that people associate negative connotations with certain body types. My hope is that in reading this, you will recognize (and appreciate) the beauty of the female body (in all of it's forms). This blog is not designed to categorize you, but to help you understand what type of clothes will be the most flattering on you and your gorgeous body. Love your body and appreciate your shape - no matter what "category" it falls into!

Here are some descriptions of the different "body types" and how you can determine which category/categories that you fall into as well as some helpful tips to best accentuate your frame. You go girl!

1) Hourglass: this is the "ideal" female shape as it denotes feminine curves with a small waist.
Characteristics of an hourglass frame:
 - You wear similar sizes on top and bottom.
 - You have a clearly defined waist.
 - You have a clearly defined bust.
 - You have a curved/rounded butt.

Scarlett Johansson is a great example of an hourglass shape.

With an hourglass figure, you have what many consider the "ideal female body." In order to best show off your shape, you should wear clothes that define your waist, enhance your bust, and highlight your hips and butt. Avoid clothing that is super loose as it will not only hide your gorgeous frame, but could also add the illusion of extra weight. 

2) Triangle: this body type is gorgeous as it brags nice curves on bottom and highlights a sleek upper body. 

Characteristics of a triangle frame:

 - Fuller hips and thighs.

 - A defined waist.

 - Shoulders that are (a bit) narrower than your hips.

 - A top half that appears smaller the bottom half.

 - Muscular, athletic legs (especially thighs).

Rihanna has a beautiful, feminine frame that resembles a "triangle" body type.

With a triangle body shape, it is really important that your jackets and tops hit above the widest part of your hips and butt. Adding detail/layers to the top half of your body will help create even proportions. Avoid skinny jeans, unless tucked into boots. Flare-leg jeans or pants will give your body a gorgeous line and make you look perfectly proportioned. Avoid wearing lighter colors on the bottom half of your body. 

3) Inverted Triangle: this body type flaunts a gorgeous lower body and a curvy upper body.

Characteristics of an inverted triangle frame:

 - Straight and squared shoulder line.

 - Little definition between waist and hips.

 - Flatter hips and butt.

 - A bottom half that seems smaller than the top half. 

Teri Hatcher is a good example of an inverted triangle body type with her gorgeous and upper body and slim hips and lower body.

With an inverted triangle body type, you will want to keep the top half as simple as possible (avoid big patterns or details on the top half). Simple and uncluttered lines will look the most flattering on you. Opt for crisp and structured fabric on the top half of your body. Halter necks highlight your gorgeous shoulders. 

4) Lean Column: this body type is made for designer clothes as most clothes hang beautifully on this frame! 

Characteristics of a lean column frame:

 - Narrow shoulders and lean limbs.

 - Smaller bust

 - Small and less-defined waist.

 - Narrow hips

 - A flatter butt

Kate Beckinsale is one example of a lean column body frame. She is beautiful from top to bottom and her dress drapes beautifully on her slender figure. 

With a lean column body shape, you will do best by highlighting your hips and butt. Enhance your bust with details such as stripes or other patterns. Use layering to create interest and focus on defining your waist. Textured fabrics are the best for your frame. Avoid frilly or gathered garments as they will overwhelm your small frame. Bulky texture will also overwhelm your beautiful shape. 

5) Round: this body type is fabulous with it's great legs and voluminous female shape.

Characteristics of a round frame:

 - Rounded should line.

 - Curved back.

 - Fullness around the middle.

 - Flattish butt. 

Gorgeous Mariah Carey is a good example of a round body shape. She has such a soft, feminine look.

 With a round body shape, you have a soft, feminine shape. You may feel as though your torso is a "problem area." In order to best accentuate your frame, you will want to wear clothing that hangs from your shoulders. Avoid detailing around your mid-section - keep detailing above your bust or below your hipline. Accessories are your best friend. As far as fabrics go, soft and fluid fabrics will fit you best. Crisp or textured fabrics may cause unnecessary bulk if the item doesn't fit you perfectly. Look for gathered waistlines around the stomach and feel free to highlight those gorgeous legs!


The key to looking fabulous is to dress YOUR best. ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS choose to accentuate YOUR assets rather than longing after the body type of someone else. If you dress for your shape, you will look your absolute best - guaranteed. 

Now go out there and love your body! 

Xo, Kristin @ Kristin Golden Image Consulting

www.kristingolden.com

Stack 'em up!

While there are many "new" trends hitting the runways and streets this season, there's one "trend" that I have been loving for a long time - stacked bracelets - lots of them!

I love mixing color, texture, width, size, etc. It can make your entire outfit!

For daytime, I really love some of the braided and beaded bracelets mixed with some metal ones for a fun, bohemian vibe.

When you have jewelry this great, you can keep all of your other accessories pretty simple. Then again, whoever said "less is more" obviously didn't get to see all of the great styles we have to play with!

Here are some great bracelets and some fun ways to wear them:

Mix and match beaded, braided and metal for a fun look like this one! I love the big orange bracelet at the bottom!

Ariel Gordon "silk curb bracelet" - $108. www.arielgordonjewelry.com

Blee Inara "evil eye bracelets" - starting at $35. www.bleeinara.com

Ettika "braided satin cord with single charm" - $24. www.ettika.com

CC Skye "double wrap bracelet"  - $285. www.ccskye.com

The CC Skye bracelet from above worn by Nicole Richie. 

Devora Libin "rubber skull bracelets" - $85 each. www.devoralibinjewels.com

Shashi "chan luu braided wrap bracelet" - $168. www.intermixonline.com

Happy shopping and happy stacking!

Xo, Kristin @ Kristin Golden Image Consulting

www.kristingolden.com

This one's for you, gentlemen!

Okay, so I have to admit, I can keep up with the latest trends and tell you what looks good and what doesn't, but when it comes to men's clothing, I'm not quite sure about all of the "rules."

Women's clothing is a completely different animal - I know it inside and out because I live it! But men's clothing - not so much. I don't wear it (so I don't know how it feels on), I don't purchase it (except for my husband (so I don't know what feels important to have), and most importantly, I'm not a man (so I can't quite tell you how men feel about men's clothing).

But, I have done my research. As an image consultant, I work with women AND MEN to help them achieve their BEST style so that they can look and feel good NOW. In order to do this, I not only need to know the trends in men's fashion, but also the basics.

While shopping for a man the other day, I came across many trends that I love this season and that I think look great on guys. I love the pops of color, the shoes, the narrower ties, the knit ties, the casual sports coats, leather jackets, patterns... there's a lot to love!

So there are some of the fun spring trends... but what about the basics. I am not going to pretend like I don't need a good reminder of these! Here is an article, courtesy of www.shirtsandties.org that has some great advice for how to pick and choose what to wear... and when! 

1. Good grooming is all-important: clean hair, clean nails, clean teeth.  Clean is sexy. Your goal is to look touchable, likeable and squeaky clean. A great smile is your most valuable accessory.

2. Show some Effort.  Dress like you're going on a date and spend some time  picking out your clothes. You can even mention that you dressed up for her, she'll love it.

3.  Never wear clothes that make you feel uncomfortable. Regardless of the trend of the season, it won’t work for you if it feels contrived.

4.  When in doubt, a sport coat will take you anywhere. Either solid navy, gray or black or else a subtle plaid or pinstripe, a sport coat adds authority to jeans and khakis, and often scores as strongly as a suit. Just make sure it fits (and never button the bottom button!)

5.  Soft faded jeans and a white oxford shirt. With or without a necktie, this is a simple sexy look that always gets the girl. (To seal the deal, wear a cool belt!)

6. Interesting socks. Not silly socks with pin-up girls necessarily but something with a little color, a little pattern, a little personality. (Interesting socks will make you seem interesting, even if you’re not…)

7. Make a Statement. Wear something that sets you apart and something that she'll notice. A great watch, cool belt buckle or a "cause" wristband are all good choices.

8. Accessorize your Wallet.  Carry a thin leather wallet and for BONUS POINTS carry a picture of your dog and let the picture slip out when you go to play the bill. Everyone loves a dog lover!

9. Great shoes. Unfortunately, you usually get what your pay for in footwear so you might have to spend a little money here. And while most conservative guys go for black leather, brown looks great with neutral-color pants and even denim.  Read our lips: No athletic shoes unless you have a tennis date.

10. A good watch speaks volumes. If you can’t afford a classic Rolex or Patek, check out the re-sale shops. Vintage is in.

11. A beautiful tie that picks up the color of your eyes. Women like neckties. A great looking tie is a great ice breaker and will always draw a compliment.

12. A cashmere scarf, also in the color of your eyes.

13. A slim-cut suit. We said slim, not tight. And make it the best you can afford. You won’t be sorry, we promise.

Happy styling, guys!

Xo, Kristin @ Kristin Golden Image Consulting

www.kristingolden.com

I want the trends NOW!

I'm not someone to advocate sacrificing quality for quantity. PERIOD.

That's how we get ourselves into trouble. We buy something because we fall in love with the PRICE TAG, not the item, and a year later, we've spent hundreds of dollars on clothes we don't even love.

BUT when it comes to trends, sometimes, you just can't help yourself. I understand. Right now, one of the hottest trends is COLOR, COLOR, COLOR. Also, Flowy skirts and dresses, cropped and loose tops, fun patterns, and big jewelry.

There are some great pieces that follow these trends that are WORTH investing in. BUT, sometimes, it's ok to buy the cheaper version - especially when you aren't so sure that it will be the style for years to come.

Here are some places to get the latest trends for less:

Nordstrom - I love it. Can't get enough of this store. BP - essentially the "Juniors" department has some great pieces that fit just the same (or close enough) as other departments and cost less than half of what some of them cost! Check it out online at http://shop.nordstrom.com/c/juniors-clothing.

Here are some of my favorites:

From top to bottom:

- LUSH sheer sleeveless tunic - $38

-WallpapHer chiffon overlay asymmetric skirt - $36

- LUSH 'harper' chiffon dress - $46

- h.i.p. slashed print boxy crop tee - $30

-Stephan $ Co. Jewelry - $10-$18

- Carole 'Metla' cascading earrings - $10

- Lulu printed infiniti scarf - $18

I also found some great trendy buys at Target:

From top to bottom:

-Xhilaration sheer lattice top - $17.99

- Ponte skirt (Tribal Print) - $16.99

- 6 degrees chiffon stripe belted dress - $24.99

- Xhilaration belted dress - $24.99

- Xhilaration pleated button-up skirt - $17.99

- Short Sleeve challis top - $16.99

So there you have it - mix and match - have some fun - layer on the color, the jewelry, the patterns. Try some new combinations. Fashion IS fun!

Happy trending!

Xo, Kristin @ Kristin Golden Image Consulting

www.kristingolden.com

If you live in Denver, DEFINITELY SAVE THE DATE

Ok, so this isn't much of a blog but anyone that lives in Denver needs to know about this event! Denver Fashion Week is March 1-4 and Night 3 will feature Mondo Guerro from Project Runway! This is something you don't want to miss out on! For more information, check out 303magazine.com or check back!







Hope to see you all there!

Xo, Kristin @ Kristin Golden Image Consulting

www.kristingolden.com

It's a 'do! (Your hair, that is)

Often I have clients ask me to help them get ready for certain events - whether it be networking events, first dates or even the People's Choice Awards. 

While the clothes play an important role, how you wear your hair can be equally important. 

Hair up or down? Which looks best? Honestly, it depends on your outfit, the time of the event, and your hair type - but here are some simple guidelines. 

I am a fan of the idea of "hair up for evening, down for daytime." I don't always follow this "rule" but it helps when I'm unsure!

Here are some great up dos that will look stunning for evening. 

- Low ponytails - make them loose fun a fun, flirty, yet classy look. I like both Blake and Jennifer do a dramatic side part - it ads a little more effort to the look. 

- Upside down french braids. I know this one sounds hard, but it creates a great look. Make sure that you tease your hair at the crown of your head so that it adds volume on top. To achieve this look, flip your hair over and literally french braid, but from the back up, rather than from the top down. Finish by pulling it together in a somewhat-messy bun and spritzing with hairspray to keep the flyways down. 

- A "ballerina bun" - this is a very classic look and the key to pulling this off is to make sure that your hair is completely smooth all the way around. This 'do looks best with dramatic makeup and a more simple clothing ensemble. 

- One other look that I love is the side ponytail. Curl hair to make is a little dressier. You can even add a bohemian-style braid across the front to give it a little more detail. This look is best with a dramatic side part (on the opposite side of the ponytail). Dangle earrings complete this night-out look. 

During the daytime, I think that hair is best kept down. Curled or not - I love the way loose and flowy strands look!

Regardless of length, pin-straight hair is always a good option and can be achieved fairly easily with a good flatiron and some shine serum. (This look can be done for evening as well).

- Side braids are a favorite of mine. This is an easy option if you don't have a ton of time to get ready (or shower)! The key to making this look daytime-friendly is to let the loose pieces fall where they like. Keep it loose and flirty. I like both the conventional side-briad and the fishtail braid. 

Here are some steps to help you with a fishtail braid. You can also find step by step directions by entering it in the search field on YouTube. 

- Let's not leave out beachy waves. This style is surprisingly easy to create and looks as effortless as a day at the beach. 

You can achieve this look with some texturizing spray and a flatiron. 

Finally, we have curls. For those born with naturally curly hair - let it shine! I love the look of free-flowing curves, especially for daytime. For those who weren't born with curly hair, use a curling iron or rollers to achieve the desired look. Remember, the thinner the (curling iron) barrel, the tighter the curls will be. For daytime, it is best not the have too tight of curls!

Keep in mind that most of these hairstyles can go either way (daytime or evening) and that when it comes to fashion (including hair), there really are no "rules" that you have to ALWAYS follow. It's your style and your look - do what feels the best for you!

Here are some products that I recommend to help you achieve some of the looks shown above, as well as some other products that will help your hair stay healthy and keep it looking good, no matter what the occasion. 

Goody makes some great products available at drugstores that help you create a great spiral bun, french twist, etc. 

Goody bobby pins that match your hair color are a great choice for up-dos.

At most beauty supply stores, you can get synthetic hair buns, ponytails, etc. that just clip in on top of your hair to give you that perfect style. 

Synthetic hair braid headbands are a great way to get a clean, fresh braided look. 

Clip-in hair extensions can help give you perfect curls. 

Clip-in hair extensions in single strands are a great way to add length and can be pretty affordable. 

Not sure about bangs? Clip-in bangs are a fun way to try the look or to have it for just a night or two. 

I love my CHI flatiron. It has many different heat settings and can tame just about any hair type!

Texturizing spray is really helpful in getting those beach waves. There are many great brands that work!

Hot Tools curling irons are a great way to curl your hair. 

Biolage hair shine protector is great to spray on hair before using heat products - it will help your hair have a healthy shine and will protect it from heat damage. 

The brush is called the "Tangle Teezer" and is a great way to get those awful knots or tangles out of your hair. You can get it from www.stylezilla.com or at most beauty supply stores. 

It's a 10 Miracle Hair Mask is my FAVORITE way to help my hair recover from all of the styling. Leave it on while you shower and you will feel a huge difference in the health of your hair after just a few uses. 

I love TIGI hair products, especially their "Hard Head" hair spray. It works wonders with keeping those flyaways down and making sure your 'do stays in place all day (or night) long. 

Happy hair styling!

Xo, Kristin @Kristin Golden Image Consulting

www.kristingolden.com