Did you know that average woman in America is 5’4” tall and a size 12? Now to add to that interesting fact, virtually 95% of all models for clothing manufacturers are 5’10” and over , and a size 2 ! So how does that all work? Well, for the average “petite” woman, it doesn’t work, and there in lies the rub.

Let me  fill you  in on every chic and petite woman’s tricks! Here are a few to follow to stand tall and proud, even if you are 5 feet tall!

1. Think tall and create an illusion on height! Focus on monochromatic colours below the belt and in your suiting.

2. Tone shoes and hose into pants or skirt. This keeps the eye flowing over the lower half of your body!

3. Focus on flattering colors near your face with accessories, scarves and makeup.

4. Wear a 2 or 3 inch heel to elongate the leg and hip area, giving you an instant height boost!

5. Manicure fingers and toes in a shade that is a light neutral, or matching nude tone to your own skin tone. This elongates the digits and creates a “mannequin effect” lengthening the limbs!

6. Create a layered cut that highlights the face, uplifting it, not pulling it down for an instant lift.

7. A good lingerie wardrobe is imperative to create a smooth, toned line under neath the clothing, eliminating line breaks and other distractions.

All clothing from Nordstrom in this segment from Nordstrom. Makeup from Smashbox Studios and Sephora.

walk into 2010 in style!

Happy New Year!  Happy New DECADE!  Doesn’t it seem like just last year that everyone was worried about Y2K?  Amazing how time slips by!  All the more reason to seize each day in style and authenticity!

My wish to you all this year is one of health, happiness and abundance on all levels.  May all your resolutions come to fruition quickly and effortlessly!

Have a spectacular 2010!

xoxoJeane B.

creds: McQueen pumps courtesy of jakandjil.

October is such a transitional month.

Typically it is the true onset of the autumn season, and with that climate change brings the realization that the Holiday Season is just around the corner as well!

There is usually the typical mad dash to the closet, the throwing of hands in the air, and the comment “I have NOTHING to wear”!

Well, fear no more because there are some simple steps to avoid hysteria, AND make it through the next few months in style, within budget, and beautifully!

Here are a few tips to get you “falling” forward!

To begin, you must take stock of what is in your closet.

If you have, (and you likely do) a pair of jeans, a pair or two of black opaque or sheer tights, some black pumps or boots, and a bunch of costume jewelry, you are already half there!

Follow these guidelines to take your wardrobe and your Autumn and Holiday wardrobe up to the next level!

1. For a fun daywear or party wear ensemble, add the jeans to new or vintage sequin jackets, ruffled tops, and colorful bold print tunics or coats.

2. Pair black opaque or sheer tights with black booties or patent sky high pumps for instant slenderness and chic style!

3. Choose bold florals, animal prints, and modern graphic prints in your coats or jackets, dresses, and tunics.

These can be found in new condition or in a vintage store, but they NEVER go out of style and always shine on the wearer!

4. Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold accessories!

Pile on the bangle bracelets on one or both arms, either in a matching or different blend of materials and metallic finishes.

Rhinestones and large crystal jewelry is both festive and attention getting and FUN!

Try both costume rings for day for humour and interest in an outfit!

Clip courtesy of ABC15.com and Sonoran Living Live television.

Featured content courtesy of jak&jil.

Holiday travel is creeping up on us and who has time to worry or wait through long TSA lines at the airport?  Click here for a clip from my segment on ABC network this morning that will solve all and any packing problems you may encounter! I pulled a fantastic outfit from Nordstrom mixing Milly, Tory Burch, Vince and Stuart Weitzman fantastic boots! Pack it all up with “good to go” beauty and accessories from Sephora, of course! Their new ULTIMATE BLOCKBUSTER kit is the absolute must have for the season!

Here are a few quick tips…..

here are 7 easy tips on what to pack for your 3-5 day trip.

1. one simple ensemble in dark neutral of jacket and pants, preferably in wrinkle proof textile like knit or tropical wool.

2. one “day to evening” colorful blouse

3. two or three colorful / neutral tee shirts

4. one colorful cardigan that coordinates with all the tops/blouse

5. one pair high heeled shoes or boots, and a pair of low heeled shoes/ boots

6. underpinnings in beige and black

7. one bag that doubles as a carry on in the same dark neutral as shoes/ boots/ jacket/pants

Add to this list the Sephora cosmetic items that are in solid/ pencil/powder form such as special kits including eye/ lip/ cheek colors.

Bon Voyage! xx Jeane B.

Don’t worry if the economy took a big bite out of your Fall shopping budget!  Here are three great tips to creating a new look for Fall for just pennies!