The Male Capri | Are You Man Enough?

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Image | Tommy Ton

The Male Capri. Not entirely a new concept, but boy has it evolved. Tommy Ton, international photo-blogger, helps me tell this sto ry.

As the temperature rises, so do hems – both male and female. The Capri of today’s Man has a body fat percentage of no more than 0.83%.

It’s purposeful and well thought out; Just short enough so that it is impossible for you to take yourself too seriously, but just long enough to make a subtle, but definite statement that you mean business. No mid-calf madness, aka “three-quarter…” I’m not sure what exactly, but they sure as hell can’t be called a “pant”.<<< Shudder>>> Remember those? Made of heavy ass denim, and at least 4 sizes too big. Sheeeeeeeet. So, so wrong. There are definitely perks to being Grown.

Then Male Capris went to College. Made of lighter-weight cotton, they were still choofy, and plump around the midsection, but at least now they were khaki- coloured and not acid-washed. Only now they were sometimes tattered, and had enough pockets to pack house and land. Good times all around for sure, but couldn’t take ‘em home to mama, for certain.

Enter the twenty-first century, and I refer to the current evolution of this style of trouser loosely as a ‘Capri’. I say this because sometimes it is purposely cut to be shorter than a normal pant leg – definitely above the ankle, so typical of a capri, but sometimes it appears to be just a slim trouser/ pant that’s rolled up. Either way, Swag is at an all time high with this one.

It’s definitely one of those trends this year that boarders on the absurd on it’s own, but, when compared to the ‘Meggings’ and ‘Meotards’, which debuted Fall ’10 Fashion Week, it seems super normal. Generally, I found it, when worn in a casual setting, pretty easy to understand. It’s the  Capri suit that took me a couple shots of Patron to figure out. The latter is still pretty questionable, but I suppose when you are really, really rich,  run your own empire, and don’t want to look like the masses, you can do – and wear -  as you damn well feel. I ain’t mad at that at all.

That said… there are some capri looks that I wouldn’t recommend

but otherwise, there’s a lot of room to work with. Lets start with:

1. Colour

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The bold colour-block trend that’s large and in charge for Spring and Summer [SS], made it’s way well into the Male Capri. Coral and pinks were the most common colours – most flattering on all skin types, but the usual suspects for SS colours like lilac, and aqua, though they offer less of a shock value,  work with the capri trend just as well. The key here is to have ONE piece of colour, so ground the look elsewhere with some sort of neutral colour, like a grey, or blue – light or dark.

This coloured-trouser trend is radical enough for most men, so even if you choose the pant at full length you’ll be well fashionable.

Oranges like that, you can take into Fall. You can opt for colour without shock value…

If pink trousers aren’t your thing, you can always work this colour trend another way…

2. Shoes

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It goes without saying that with a pant leg this high, it is understood that your shoe game needs to be on point. Go loafer, or go home.

That’s just my preference. But you can get away with other, whole, closed, shoes.

Go all star on ‘em.

or not. Either way, if you choose to go sockless, invest in a super moisturizing cream and ensure that it befriends your ankles.

Pair with higher cut shoes/ boots  shoes to dress the look up…. or keep your ankles warm.

I feel like you’d be making the wrong kind of statement if you wear this type of capri with open-toe sandals. For one your proportions, head-to-toe, will not appear balanced in the sort of way that you might look like you’re about to topple over. Then, I mean, if it’s really that hot outside, you might want to consider wearing shorts.

Just no white, gym shoes. Please and thank you.

3. Socks

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This trend is going to go well into Fall/ Winter [FW] ’11. When the temperature dips, just add socks to the fray. The colour and fabric of the capri may sober up, but the fun isn’t lost as the colour of your socks and shoes kick into high gear. Who said there’s no fun in Male Fashion.

4. Casual

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Casual ones

and of course the North American fabric staple, Denim.

5. The Dress Capri

Or a full on suit [or blazer/ pant option], just with a pant with a precariously shorter inseam.

Pure swag.

In summary, today’s Male Capri:

- Is slim fitting

- Possesses no bulky side pockets

- Varies in length.
As a general rule, the shorter the hemline (between the ankle and the knee) the shorter, and stumpier, your legs will look. So the taller and slimmer you are, the higher you can take your hemline without risking looking like a dwarf.

- Should be worn with whole, closed shoes, rather than open-toed sandals.

Carry on.

b Freakin’Fabulous

A contributor at GQ.com, Tommy Ton’s work can be found here.

Colour-Blocking 101

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Image: Denim Magazine | Aug ’11

Tips on working on of my fav. Summer trends ever.

1. One trend at a time.

Either Colour-Block OR Animal Prints. Not both. The end is never good when two divas are placed in the same room. Opting for the color-block look is eye-catching enough; Having one trend compete with each other just screams trying too hard.

My two cents would be to choose colour for now and save your animal prints for Fall – it’s right around the corner.

2. Choose your colour battles.

Keep colour in the same family, (oranges with reds, pinks with purples, use the same colour in different shades) …  or not, if your personality would allow you to get away with it. Pair fuschia, orange and light-but-bright blue as Malinda Williams does on the cover of Denim Magazine here, but remember to ground your look elsewhere.

“Either boldly coloured clothing OR accessories OR shoes.”

The “Nicki Minaj” fashion statement only works on Nicki Minaj.

If you choose to wear boldy coloured clothing, keep accessories to a tasteful minimum, and ground the look with nude shoes/ sandals. to pair black shoes with such a multi-coloured, get-up would be a tragic, amateur mistake.

If you choose boldly coloured shoes, let that be the focal point of the look and go with a more neutral or mono-toned clothing choice. The same goes if you choose to wear bold accessories.

P.S. – Neon nail colour also counts as accessories on Grown folk.

Taking heed to this either, [either], or, will be the difference between looking skillfully put together, and looking a saucy mess. It’s a razor thin line, but the results are worlds apart.

3. The Fit-&-Flatter Concept

Bold clothing will attract some level of otherwise unintended attention, so this concept right here is key. With so much going on, colour-blocked items usually work best when worn in a body-conscious silhouette, meaning that the clothing fits very close to the body. Be sure to wear the right underwear/ shapewear if necessary. the tag may say “One size fits all” but all what? All models? All size 2-8s? Definitely not all human beings on this planet. That is physically impossible. What is it made out of? Ballon plastic? Even that has a breaking point. There is a reason why even condoms come in different sizes.

The hotter the trend, the less room there is for mistakes. Know your size and the tensile strength of the fabric that you are wearing. And oh, Spanks don’t catch everything eh, especially if the brand is “fanks”.

4. Tone down the makeup

Another secret to pulling off this bold trend is to keep makeup to a minimum. There is never an excuse to wear red lipstick with this trend. Please and No.  No neon-clothing-with-fuschia-lips-and-blue-eyeshadow combo.  At least not for normal daytime activities for you will look like a 0.99c special. Clown days are over. Less is more.

5. Confidence

As with all other statement trends, the real clincher is here genuine confidence. The kind that emanates from the depths of your soul. The kind that is reflected in the pep in your step, and not store-bought, or BS kind – that’s not substantial enough. It’s very important for you to be comfortable in whatever you are wearing. Pick your peonie and ROCK. IT. HARD.

Carry on.

b FiercelyFabulous

Image

Documentary | “Food Matters”

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“You are what you eat”

We hear this time and time again, but what, if anything does it really mean to us.

Came across a documentary,  Food Matters, which goes into some fair depth (it’s 77 minutes long!) and gives some insight into the relationship between nutrition, health and our relationship with food here in the western world.

Among other things, the documentary also looks at:

1. Our [western] society’s “Taking a pill to cure an ill” approach and it’s obsession with use of drugs.

2. Methods of cleansing the body and the concept that “Food can affect your mood”

3. Cancer and the war against it – how it works and the ability of the human body to fight it… or not.

4. “Education” vs. “Medication”

5. “Superfood” diets – The argument foroOrganic, plant based, and raw foods

I’ll admit, it does come across a bit “The Secret”-ish in the way it is presented, BUT it does highlight important points -

1. Why is it that most of us pay more attention to what we wear than what we eat and

2. That a healthy diet is an important component to us feeling our best and achieving happiness.

See direct link to documentary here.

What are your thoughts?

b Freakin’Fabulous

Photo: Eman / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

It’s Official | Look Like Your Ex for $69.50

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The madness is now official.

Meet the Levi’s “Ex-Girlfriend Jeans”

Product Description:

“Remember the girlfriend with the great style? Here’s a tribute to her — a fit that’s super-snug allover, an update of the five-pocket classic that’s as skinny as it gets. Made with plenty of stretch.”

Shown in Mask and available at a Levis Store near you.

Or if you really can’t wait, shop here.

Why do I feel a burning desire to tag this under “skin damage”?

Perhaps, the reason she left you was because you kept taking her isht?

Food for thought.

b Freakin’Fabulous

Body Concious | Rocking Ruffles

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S2011| Emilio Pucci

Ruffles, much like the graphic prints of the season, add detail to a garment, but more than that, they also add volume.

They are dramatic, and bring attention to the area. With this in mind you can use ruffles to your advantage, by incorporating them in areas that you may find, well, lacking.

The size of the ruffles that you don should coincide with how much drama you wish to attract to that specific area.

How to Make Ruffles Work for You

Generally speaking, the placement of the ruffles will depend on your body shape – Pear, Inverted Triangle, Apple, Hourglass or Athletic – As ruffles, along with other embellishment trends like as feathers for example, work at attracting attention to an area, which, as a result, then removes the focus from other areas that you’d prefer not to play up as much.

The basic rules that apply when working the ruffles, feathers or embellishment trends on the above body shapes are as follows:

1. PEAR

Shoulders, chest and waist proportionally smaller than hips and thighs.

S2011 | Valentino

Focus ruffles in your top half, and keep lower half simple.

Ruffles located along interesting necklines like boat, and cold shoulder styles, draw attention away from lower half.

2. INVERTED TRIANGLE

Proportionately larger top half. Wider shoulders, little or no hips, slim legs

S2011 | Giorgio Armani

Balance broad shoulders with ruffled volume on lower half. Create the illusion of a waist by adding a belt.

3. APPLE

Proportionately larger waistline. Smaller shoulders, chest and hips. Slim legs.

S2011 | Alberta Ferretti

Whereas adding a belt a tied waistband will draw attention and add weight to the midsection,  ruched fabric in the the midsection area works at both camouflaging and minimizing waist.

Intricate necklines, and asymmetrical hems will also help divert attention away from midsection

Horizontal ruffles placed off center gives the illusion of an elongated torso. Alternatively, ruffle detail may be placed along V-neckline and/ or along hemline (either at knee or floor grazing, not in-between).

4. HOURGLASS

Proportionately smaller waist, chest and hips are wider and somewhat balance each other.

S2011 | Prada

This body shape naturally has volume in the desired places. Add ruffles in areas that do not put the flow in imbalance, like at the hem of a knee length pencil skirt ala Prada.

5. ATHLETIC

No areas are particularly wider, or narrower than the rest. Negligible difference between chest, waist and hip measurements.

S2011 | Jill Sanders

A blank canvas – add ruffles wherever there is desire to add more volume

• Up top to enhance cleavage
• Around waist to make a statement or
• Around hips to add curves.

ADDITIONAL TIPS

1. A smart way to wear ruffles is to wear small ones horizontally on a sheath dress silhouette – considered to be  universally flattering. This way, like stripes, the ruffles elongate rather than widen.
2. Ruffles, like feathers or jeweled embellishments, are noisy beings.  So that you do not start answering yourself, at least not in public, keep accessories minimal and  makeup natural.

b Freakin’Fabulous

Dodging Fashion Roadkill | The Maxi Dress

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S2011 | Micheal Kors

As long as there are women, there will always be the Maxi dress. Designers must find this fact annoying because, perhaps in an effort to relieve their boredom, they’ve decided to inject different textures and structures into this spring/ summer staple. The possible result? An epic miss, with some of the most unflattering combinations known to man… or in this case, woman.

The word “Maxi”, as it applies to a dress (or skirt), refers to either length (usually floor grazing) or fullness  (voluminous) – either way there is a whole lot of fabric. The goal of a Maxi dress is to create the illusion of easy sophistication, but this punchline can easily get muddled when designers run with such wild abandon in the park of imagination,  that they miss the mark  totally.

Most of trends for this Spring/ Summer 2011 (S2011) may be seen somewhere on a Maxi Dress near you. Beware of the pitfalls.

1. The See-Through-Maxi

S2011 Trend: Lace/ See-through Fabrics

S2011 | Giorgio Armani

The issue: Visible underwear, isn’t Sexy. [Visibly] going without underwear, tramp style, is worse.  No-one is interested in seeing your ‘titillating’ ‘assets’. This dress will flatter noone with an ounce of flesh. Much more than the sheer fabric will be… bouncing… in the wind.

S2011 | Givenchy

The solution: Go sheer without going bare. Printed sheer materials can offer less translucency that plain coloured ones. Also, well placed detailing can detract, or conceal, areas of perverted interest. Depending on the dress, you can wear a (modern) slip.

2. The Bright, Boxy, Structured, Maxi

S2011 Trend: Bold Colours/ Menswear/ Suits

S2011 | Jill Saunders

The issue: Your waist called. He misses you.

May be laid back,  but this look is definitely not sexy. All that’s missing here are the potatoes, which is ironic because that’s probably the last thing that’s available  on that menu.

Proportions. Proportions. Proportions. An hourglass shape, or the illusion of one, is the key to classic style. Also,tThe overly structured look of this dress defeats the purpose of a Maxi dress.

S2011 | Lanvin

The solution: The bold colour rocks. Keep the structure to an asymmetrical neckline and a belted waist.

3. The Retro Maxi

S2011 Trend: Retro/ 60s Ladylike/ Red carpet glam

S2011 | Vivienne Westwood

The issue: More like 60s/ Ladylike Prom, and looks like the dress equivalent to helmet head – Untouchable.

S2011 | Lanvin

The solution: Switch up the fabric. Interpret the retro ladylike, rather than raid your mother/ grandmother’s closet. Similar silhouette, different reaction.

4. The Graphic Maxi (I)

S2011 Trend: Floral Prints

S2011 | Jill Saunders

The issue: Large prints, like this floral overwhelms petite frames. The dress’s voluminous nature around the waist area also does not complement a woman’s figure.

S2011 | Marc Jacobs

The solution: Choose a floral print that is proportional to your size – larger frames are better able to carry larger prints. Add interest to a floor grazing floral number with a contrasting detail in a complementary colour at the waist. Peek-a-boo skin, unveiled through a v-neck, gives balance to a potentially, visually dizzying number.

5. The Graphic Maxi (II)

S211 Trend: Bold Colours/ Geometric Prints/ Asymmetrical hems

S2011 | Vivienne Westwood

The Issue: An effort is made to highlight the waist with a twist-tie, but the  over-sized vertical stripes + no structure + peculiar dress length + bold colours+ excess fabric = Please Stop. My head hurts.

S2011 | Marc Jacobs

The solution: One voice at a time. Keep silhouettes, to dresses in busy fabrics, simple. The ruching detail in the right places breaks the monotony, and gives a flattering look to even the no-no horizontal stripe rule.

6. The White Maxi

S2011 Trend: All White/ Minimal/ 60s Ladylike

S2011 | Chloé

The issue: The abundance of fabric on the top half, in white no less, coupled with a gathered waist would make for an excessively commodious, unflattering look on most humans.

S2011 | Chloé

S2011 | Chloé

The solution: A wrap dress, or one that mimics it, is universally flattering, even in white, as it breaks up the details, as well as highlights the natural waist.

Tip: A V-neck works better than a round neck for fuller and/ or curvier figures.

7. The Unfinished Maxi

S2011 Trend: Asymmetrical Hems / Metallic/ Sheer/ Unfinished Detailing

S2011 | Vivienne Westwood

The issue: The first issue is the trend itself – Unfinished garments. Unhemmed garments, unclipped trimmings. A frayed, fuzzy look with thread dangling everywhere. Why? I’ll file this in the juvenile section, right next to destructed jeans.

More than the hems, the statement is undone in this crinkly, scratchy, bed-head looking kit, the draping of which also makes for an unflattering profile. Besides, if you are going to tote all of this fabric, and still have a peep show, why not just don a fitted, loosely crocheted dress instead? Oh yeah, that’s also a don’t.

S2011 | Micheal Kors

The solution: Just because the fabric has a metallic finish, doesn’t mean it has to look like it will cut you. Switching up the fabric to a touchable knit, (one that is also less sheer), and tightening the silhouette a touch, gives the still-asymmetrical look an easy-going, figure-enhancing flow. Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.

8. The Body Concious Maxi

S2011 Trend: Body Concious/ White/ Lace/ Sheer Fabrics

S2011 | Emilio Pucci

The issue: The combination of the above trend may make for a body conscious, but not a body flattering combo. Perhaps this would be better worn as resort wear, in the form of a beach cover-up.

S2011 | Emilio Pucci

The solution: Emphasize your curves in one trend. Either in lace/ sheer fabrics OR a body hugging silhouette.

OTHER USEFUL TIPS

1. DO give unexpected skin via a high slit or an asymmetrical hemline to give overly voluminous , or excessively lengthy dresses a modern edge, as Emilio Pucci does here.

S2011 | Emilio Pucci

S2011 | Emilio Pucci

2. DO play with the Military trend with ‘sober’ colour choices – e.g. olive green, navy, combined with subtle masculine detailing.

S2011 | Lanvin

Whoever said that Power can only be unleashed in a pant suit must have never experienced the Power of a Maxi.

b Freakin’Fabulous

Best Mens S2011Trend | Colourific Love

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S2011 | Custo Barcelona

There are some staples that a man should possess, regardless of the season. A timepiece, tailored suits, and the good sense to know that brown shoes go with a blue suit.

Then there are Spring staples. For example, a waterproof trench coat, a lightweight, cotton sports jacket and a pair of vintage sunglasses to shield you from the glares of average men. For men especially, the difference in seasonal trends, from year to year, may be a change in colour, cut, or perhaps an update on a classic style. Toss in some “out there”s, and your wardrobe, as a guy, is as good as complete. No fussing, no fighting.

Spring 2011 Trends.

There are the obvious trends, e.g. Military and the Biker trends. It is Mens Fashion after all. Chances are that the Military look would count.

An interesting, but perhaps not so obvious change is that it seems that a looser fitting mens pant leg is back. Yay! The cajones can breathe. This is not to say that the Mens skinny pant is no longer worn, because it is, but at the very least, the style seem to have peaked.

The, for want of a better word, absurd – Crop tops, Chains, Meggings (Mens leggings), Lace and sheer fabrics so delicate that not even I would  wear them,  Florals and Monokinis.

A glimpse at what Emporio Armani offered:

S2011 Monokini | Emporio Armani

Where do I start?

S2011 Meggings | Emporio Armani

Make up your mind. Do you want to be warm or cool? As if super, skinny, stretch jeans on men weren’t bad enough, the weather warmed up and brought us Meggings.

S2011 | Emporio Armani

Regardless of your sexual orientation, putting your jewels on display is always a DON’T.

S2011 Cropped and Sheer | Emporio Armani

Cropped tops looked odd in the 90s and this aesthetic never improved. They look even more out of place on the 21st century metro-sexual.

Cropped pants shorten your legs. Do forgo.

S2011 Lace and Chains | Emporio Armani

Want to get in touch with your softer side? Wear lavender or pink, rather than lace.

Impeccable fit, Debatable taste. Not a fan of conceptually complicated clothing and/or styling on men. They are intriguing and mysterious enough?, thanks. Me no likey. K.I.S.S.

By far the most stand-out-but-reasonable and, most importantly, wearable on trend this season is colour – Pastels or Bold, Printed or Plaid.

Your underwear may be monochromatic, but your clothes doesn’t have to be.

COLOUR

S2011 | Jill Sander

More editorial, less ready-to-wear for the average person perhaps, Yes?

I feel you.

Here are some ideas for wearing colour in a more down-to-earth, yet fashion forward manner. For balance, keep either the top or the bottom of the ensemble colourific and balance the other half with a neutral.  Standard neutrals include white, grey, brown, navy, olive green and of course this season’s neutral, khaki.

Fitted button ups

S2011 | Dsquared

The key here is fit.

Long-sleeved tops

S2011 | Gilded Age

S2010 | Giorgio Armani

S2011 | Ermenegildo Zegna

Casual Shirts

S2011 | Louis Vuitton

Cardis

S2011 | Gilded Age

Tees

S2011 | Giorgio Armani

Yay for everything, minus the raccoon eyes.

Dress Shirts

S2011 | Ermenegildo Zegna

Men in sandals are possibly the most misunderstood.

S2011 | Ermenegildo Zegna

Too loud for you? Try the Khaki Shirt, without question the season’s must have.

S2011 | Gucci

S2011 | Steven Allen

Never understood espadrilles, especially on men, but say what. I suppose it works here as a definite slipper upgrade.

The Khaki V-neck

S2011 | Etro

The Khaki Dress Shirt

S2011 | Dsquared

The Casual Khaki Shirt.

S2011 | Dsquared

There is so much versatility with this trend, we need to talk about this privately.

Pants

S2011 | Canali

S2011 | Moschino

S2011 | Ermenegildo Zegna

Bring out the colours in your ensemble with some complementary socks

S2011 | Tommy Hilfiger

Windbreakers

Worn with shorts…

S2011 | Micheal Bastian

S2011 | Micheal Bastian

or trousers…

S2011 | Louis Vuitton

The Slim-fit, lightweight, cotton blazer

Pair with fitted button ups, a coloured tee, or coloured dress shirt. Dress up or down as required.

Double breasted or a single button, the right blazer pulls it all together.

S2011 | Dsquared

That Body.

Moving on smartly we have the bolder version…

S2011 | Dsquared

S2011 | Prada

S2011 | Giorgio Armani

S2011 | Giorgio Armani

Minimalist options:

Casual

S2011 | Gilded Age

S2011 | Dsquared

S2011 | Gucci

S2011 | Louis Vuitton

or swanky

S2011 | Giorgio Armani

S2011 | Canali

Yum.

Leather

S2011 | Dsquared

S2011 | Ermenegildo Zegna

S2011 | Gucci

For the minimalists, brown counts too.

S2011 | Gilded Age

S2011 | Dsquared

Shoes

Add colour without going casual. Be casual, without looking like you’re going to the gym.

S2011 | Giorgio Armani

Swim trunks

Opt for solid-coloured, matte ones over tropical printed ones.

S2011 | Gilded Age

They mirror the solid, matte shorts of the season

S2011 | Gilded Age

I suppose if you are European, and live over yonder, and look like this, you can venture into these …

S2011 | Dsquared

God is great. Gives a whole new meaning to the word ‘minimalism’.

As we’re on the topic, if you aren’t one to stray too far from your neutrals, then  it’s all in the details for you.

The belt.

S2011 | Micheal Bastian

The tie.

S2011 | Gilded Age

S2011 | Gilded Age

You never have to be dressed up to wear ties like these.

S2011 | Moschino

S2011 | Ermenegildo Zegna

S2011 | Micheal Bastian

S2011 | Ermenegildo Zegna

Under a cardigan

S2010 | Gilded Age

The piping.

S2011 | Moschino

The pocket square.

S2011 | Giorgio Armani

2011 TAKE ON CLASSICS

The Suit

The single button jacket re-surges this season for a look that is both classic yet fashion forward.

S2011 | Micheal Bastian

So is the double breasted jacket.

S2011 | Canali

Madd.

The Trench

If not out of pure necessity, Spring requires a trench. Make yours as versatile as you wanna be -

S2011 | Buckler

S2011 | Gucci

S2011 | Canali

S2011 | Canali

S2011 | Moschino

Hot. No-one would ever guess that all your underwear is white.

In the event that you light afire, be sure to throw on a pair of these vintage frames.

Moscot

b Freakin’Fabulous

Foot Fetish | 10 Steps to a Spa Pedicure

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The Beyotch of all Pedicures.

The Spa Pedicure is one of the ultimate luxuries to pamper your digits. At a reputable nail salon, i.e one that takes the necessary precautions against the spread of diseases/ infections in a nail salon, this indulgence can run anywhere upwards of $75 a service, with a Spa Mani/ Pedi combo running at least an easy minimum $100.

In a bid to differentiate themselves from a fellow competitor, it is not uncommon for nail salons to present creative names for these services.

“The Ultimate Pedicure”

“The Signature Pedicure”

“Hot Lava Pedicure”

As a nail salon owner, the point here is to differentiate yourself. Get creative.

These types of pedicures are primarily found in middle to high end salons because of the sheer time it takes to get all of the goodies done - anywhere between 50 – 120 minutes. Usually, the longer the time taken, the more expensive the service.

So what is a Spa Pedicure anyways?

Typically, what differentiates a Spa pedicure from a Classic pedicure is pampering time. Therefore, Spa pedicures will probably include a scrub, a (perhaps extended) foot massage, as well as extra care to smoothing hardened soles of the feet. Uber high-end salons may also include a foot mask, paraffin treatments etc. These are inexpensive add-ons for the Spa, so the charge  largely comes for the use of the  therapist’s time. Additionally, there is also an additional cost for callus removal in a pedicure . Why? because any of these above processes can add up to 15 minutes each.

It is important to remember that Spa services , as opposed to other beauty services like Hair  services for example, are charged per minute rather than per service. Arrive late for your Spa service and you have only the remaining time in your reserved slot to get your service done, if they will grant you the the service at all, never mind, *swipe*, your credit card will be charged either way.

Why?

If the colouring service on your new hair colour/ cut/ style ‘do takes longer than anticipated, the stylist cannot exactly leave you mid service and tell you hard luck can s/he? Not so much. This is why there is normally a cancellation policy (usually 24-48 hours) for spa services. Time is money baby!

Can you achieve a similar service at home?

With the knowledge,  an hour, some patience, and the right tools, you sure can!

Here are 10 steps to an at-home Spa Pedicure, complete with tips to getting it right, polish optional.

Remember, practice makes you better.

YOU WILL NEED:

- Pedicure bowl with lukewarm water (warmer if you can tolerate it)
- Small to medium sized bowl with clean, lukewarm water (warmer if you can tolerate it)
- Orange stick and/ or nail pusher
- Nail Clipper,  made especially for clipping toes
- Nail File (180 grit)
- Foot soak/ Pedicure soak/ Mineral Salts/ Epson salts etc. (your choice)
- Hydrating Foot lotion
- Cuticle Oil
- Nail Buffer (white)
- Foot File
– 2 Hand Towels
- Nail polish remover and cotton balls (if necessary)

OPTIONAL ITEMS
- Cuticle nipper
- Foot Mask
- Callus softener
- Intensive Heel balm
- Base Coat, Top Coat, Nail polish

Time Required: 60 – 120 mins

1. Soak Feet

In pedicure bowl, mix foot soak in a generous amount of lukewarm water as per foot soak instructions. Place feet in bowl for up to 10 minutes.

2. Remove any existing polish from nails on both feet. (If necessary.)

3. Cut and File Nails

- Remove right foot from pedicure bath. Cut nails using nail clipper.
Note: cutting nails too short can damage the nail. Avoid cutting nails with too sharp of a  downward curve at the edge / sides of the nail, where the nail meets the side of your finger, as this may result in ingrown/ hangnails. Ouch.

- Using a nail file, file nails so that there are no sharp edges left by nail clipper, so that nail edge is smooth.

4. Clean the edges of the nail plate

- Using orange stick or nail pusher, GENTLY clean bottom of the nail bed, where it connects to the finger.

- GENTLY push back the cuticle using orange stick/ nail pusher.
Dead skin cells of the cuticle collect here, as well as residue from hand lotion, environmental dirt, etc. It is important not to scrape the nail bed in this area too roughly, as grave, possibly permanent, damage may be done to the nail bed.

- OPTIONAL – Cuticles may be clipped at this stage, but it is important to clip ONLY the dead, and not the living, tissue. If you are unsure of what is dead and what is living tissue, skip this stage altogether, as clipping live tissue can result in cuts, bleeding and damage to the cuticle.

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5. Buff nails and clean under free edge

- Using a white nail buffer, GENTLY buff nails (no more than 10 strokes per nail).
Buffing to smooth the nail bed. Overzealous buffing however, will result in thinning and possible damage to the nail plate, which is a common occurrence in professional manicures.  The amount of buffing that ought to be done will depend on the condition of the nail. It is important to  note that, depending on the depth of the ridges of the nail, it may not be possible to smoothen out all ridges, without removing the entire nail bed.

- Using orange stick, clean under free edge (the area at the top of the nail where gook collects when you use your nails to scratch… something) of any residual nail that may have collected here during the filing/ buffing stage.

6. Apply cuticle oil to cuticles

- Critical step to well manicured nails.

7. Apply callus softener and wrap foot

- Optional, if applicable, apply callus softener to any calluses/ hardened areas on soles of feet, and wrap foot in a towel.

Repeat steps 3 – 7 on left foot.

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8. Smooth calluses

- Starting with right foot, remove towel and smooth calluses/ hardened areas on soles of feet  with a back and forth motion using foot file. Repeat on left foot. And please, never use a razor blade.

9. Apply and remove scrub

- Starting with right foot, apply foot scrub for 2-3 minutes. Rinse with clean water from small bowl into the pedicure bowl. Repeat on left foot.

OPTIONAL – Apply foot mask
To right foot, avoiding the tips of the toes, and wrap in a towel. Repeat on left foot and let both feet stand for 5-10 minutes.

Rinse mask from right foot using clean water from bowl. Repeat on left foot.

10. Massage feet

- Massage hydrating foot lotion to right foot, including legs. Pay special attention to heels. Repeat on left foot.

- If necessary, apply heel balm to cracked heels, on right and left foot.

- Apply cuticle oil to cuticles.
*TIP – Cuticle oil is quite possibly any nail technician’s secret weapon as the application will make nails in any condition, look healthier. Guaranteed.

POLISH APPLICATION PREP (OPTIONAL)

For nail polish application, remove any traces of lotion from nails using a cotton ball with nail polish remover. Apply polish in the following order:

- Start with one coat for base coat to all nails.
- Follow with a coat, or two, of nail polish (one coat a time).
- End  with  Top coat application.

Finish with application of cuticle oil to cuticles, as in step above.

It’s easy to have a foot fetish with kissable feet!

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Not quite at this level? You can still have kissable feel with an at-home Classic pedicure. **Coming soon.**

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b Freakin’Fabulous

For more info. on how to protect yourself against infectious diseases in nail salons, click here.

Photo: Simon Howden / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Dodging the Office Party Pitfalls

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The Christmas Party. Or, if you work for one of those politically correct companies, the “Holiday” Party.

Obviously, you ought to go. This goes without saying.

Sure, you may be antisocial, you may despise your co-workers or you may rather count sheep than live though a convo with Frank from accounting, but it will do your career more harm than good if you just skip the shindig altogether. Why? Because not showing up for an office related event – be it a party, family day or someone’s horrid excuse for a ‘team building’ exercise – gives the impression that you aren’t interested in the company or your future there.

Now regarding any work related events, there are two things to always keep in mind:

1. No matter how far away from the office the venue is, remember that it’s still a work function.
2. Regardless how convincing the higher-ups seem to be about oh how it’s a time for everyone to kick off their shoes and let down their hair and just have a great time…. They’re lying.

The following are my top 8 things to avoid doing at your office party

8. One-upping your boss

You may be stronger/ faster/ better but keep that info to yourself.

This is not the time to speak about your stint in Milan as a model after being scouted in your first year in university when your boss responds to one of your co-worker’s brown-nosing comments about him looking dapper. Neither is this the time to share the fact that you and your fiance are heading to the Megeve Ski Resort in response to the fact that your boss’s “lean Christmas” is resulting in him opting for a staycation with his cat. And it’s definitely not the time to bring up the fact that you were the brains behind the newly implemented program that is has saved the company Xmillie amount of moolah this year.

Some other don’ts in this category:

• Don’t harp about how wonderful or wonderfully annoying your significant other is is – no-one, not limited to you boss, cares.
• Don’t start a chugging or eating contest… or any contest for that matter.
• Don’t brown-nose and/ or talk too much shop

If you are in line for a promotion, be sure to perhaps get your boss away from the melee for a minute and speak briefly on some of the ideas you have to implement strategies relating to a major upcoming project. Of course this should be done fairly early and pre-scotch, i.e. before the convo ends up going south a-la #5 below.

• And at all costs, don’t do…

7. The Elaine dance

A definite fail.

If you don’t know what this is, chances are you’ve already done it. Because it’s impossible to describe, here’s a video clip:

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x2cz0i

Under this we can include throwing down to any song that is decidedly inappropriate for the occasion. For example, displaying your best moves to Akon and Eminem’s “Smack That” and proclaming

“Man, this is my jaaaayyym!”

That may quite possibly be the last Holiday party the company will see both you and the DJ.

6. Hook up with a co-worker in the bathroom

Especially if you didn’t the the object of your urinal fling was all that and a bag of chips the day before, and/ or the person is more into you than you are into them. There will never be a good end to this scenario.

5. Have an ‘off-the-record’ convo with your boss after having had 2 shots of Patron

Though you may not remember the convo, chances are s/he will, and there will most definitely be an “on-the-record”  convo about it the morning after.

Under this we will include ‘smackin’ your boss’ @ss to aforementioned song, or smacking anyone for that matter lest a sexual harassment case slaps yours.

4. Bring your 2-minute old significant other to the party.

Though it may seem like a good idea at the time, this here can auger like a ticking time-bomb. You have no idea what to expect in the moment and chances are you’d either have to babysit the entire night, or have to deal with managing the after effects of him/ her displaying any of the above.

Although there are varying views regarding this, I’d go out on a limb here and say that unless you’re any combination of an executive/ married/ in line for a promotion and/ or/ therefore wish to avoid any compromising positions with that being from marketing who’s been getting a touch to friendly recently, keep business and personal private and leave your spouse out of it.

For those of us who flirt and/ or have lunch time DOOs with (a) co-worker(s), do your colleagues a favour and leave your ‘significant other’/ spouse home will ‘ya? Office parties are awkward enough, no need to bring the drama that will undoubtedly ensue.

3. Being the last one to leave.

Sure, you don’t get out often because of your work/ home responsibilities. And of course you wish to make the most of the $40 you paid the baby sitter to keep the kids overnight, but under no circumstance should you party the night away at your office shindig.

Show up on time [fashionably late never applies to work-related events] nurse a drink in one hand and make it across the room taking pit-stops at key points to ensure that your presence is noted. Then, just when the ties and the jackets start coming off, exit stage left and meet up with your real friends.

2. Calling in sick the day after because of your hangover

This is one of the biggest corporate no-nos. NEVER call in sick the day after:

• A company hosted event,
• A public holiday, or
• Your vacay.

I suppose the only thing worse would be being awakened by a tap on your shoulder by your boss… in your office, with your party hat on.

Find out what your company policy is on being hungover, being late – or not showing up at all – the day after the Holiday party. For most companies, it’s business as usual, no excuses.

1. Which all lead to the greatest office Holiday party DON’T ever:

Don’t get drunk.

Please enjoy responsibly.

Freakin’Fabulous

Related post: Office Party Ettiquette

2010 | Fall Favorites

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The 60s

Louis Vuitton

One of my fav things that happened this season, is the re-emergence of clothing designed for the average person, i.e. people with some sort of manner of three dimensional shape, rather than the 2D, if-you-turn-sideways-you-will-disappear ones.

Perhaps this was wildly influenced by Mad Men (wikked show), but whatever it was – Thank you and Amen. Everyone with curves, let me hear you roar for this is hourglass season. Slightly longer hems (below the knees), full circle  and curve-hugging silhouettes run the route. I wasn’t ever really good at history, science was more my thing, but I believe this is decidedly an early 60s trend, (not to be confused with the mod 60s)… could very well be late 50s. Either way….

1. Full skirts

(below-the-knee circle skirts) ala Betty Draper [Mad Men]

2. ‘Granny’ skirts

usually mid-calf, pleated or gathered with a flowing easy hemline, that falls rather than sticks out like those cotton candy skirts, much like Peggy Olsen [Mad Men]

Of course the #1 thing with pulling these two types of skirts off is to have a close fitting blouse. The last thing a curvy girl needs to be be voluminous on the top AND the bottom. You’d be 3D alright, but more cylinder than hourglass.

3. Sheath skirts and dresses.

Definitely Joan Holloway [Mad Men]. The ultimate in sophisticated femininity.

*Snap*

For those of us *cough* who find it difficult to get the sheath dress to fit just quite right, you can always try a wrap dress that looks like a sheath one.

or try a high-waisted pencil skirt. This also works this trend quite nicely.

For the more daring the peg-top skirt (full at the waist with pleats or darts, then it tapers narrowly down to the hem) is a good look. If you have a lot of ‘assets’ this may be a tricky look to pull off, largely because it never fits right. I’d say stick with the pencil.

Accessorize. Accessorize.

A costume is not complete without the fandangles.

If you are going to choose such statement looks, accessorize like you mean it.  This way you don’t look like you’re stuck in a time warp. Can’t carry a 60s vixen look with 90s contemporary trimmings. Come on now.

1. Kitten heels

The anti-FMP.

Was never really a fan but… I guess I understand their purpose. Shoes then were more functional and less glamour, as women actually walked very long distances to and from work with them, hence the lower heels like these Pradas:

My problem is that I walk horridly in them. Go figure. Throw me 6″ stilettos and I’m on easy street. Kitten heels and I will twist my ankle. Automatic. For some reason my brain mistakes them for flats.

Functionally fab, Givenchy and all.

2. Wide-waist cinching belts.

Every curvy girl ought to know that this is her longest standing bff by now.

3. “Sexy” Hair

i.e. confused.

“I’m neat, but I’m messy. I’m styled, but not really. I’m slick, but I’m pouffy.

It’s that way purposefully.

Don’t judge me.”

4. Red lips

Fire engine red specifically. Not everyone’s cup of coffee. Roger that.

You can update this look and make it yours by opting for any of the season’s various berries.

Cherry, plum, grape, blue… choose a bold berry that works for you. Just remember the darker the berry… the more stern the look. This is a high maintenance look so eat and drink with caution. For tips on applying/ wearing bold lip colour see post Lady in Bold.

Okay. So it may be obvious that the that’s my top look pick for the season. However other trends worthy of mentioning include:

The 70s

This look also combines high-waisted, wide-legged trousers and ‘blousey’ shirts with neckties. The Power struggle between masculine and feminine continues. Works well for a day/ office/ working-girl look.

Above, from left: Gianfranco Ferre, Akris, Salvatore Ferragamo, Balmain.

At nights? Lots and lots of shimmer and shine. Gold, lame, bold looks.

Leather

It’s Fall after all… leather can hardly be considered a trend as it’s always present in this season.

Head to toe leather? Definite overkill.Works best when you mix it in with other trends like…

Lace

A definite shoo-in for “Holiday Season” swag.

Before you reach for your grandmother’s lace, take a small time out. If you are thinking of the 90s all-over, stretch lace… wrong still. This lace has been updated, and normally it’s the ONLY layer. Yep, that’s what I said.

Ya girl Eva ‘Marcille’ at the Z100 Jingle Ball 2010 hits this one home in this number… with cut out shoes.

So… naturally this automatically eliminates some of us from rocking this trend, or at least it should…. Know your limits with respect to size…. and body tone.

For the more conservative, try pieces with sheer panels rather than a full sheer number. This can work too.

Cut outs

This was pretty big in Spring 2010, so I guess it wasn’t ready to leave. If you live in a country that has a pseudo winter go right ahead. I can hardly imagine this in my -30 degree weather. But more than clothing cut outs have extended itself to accessories, as well as shoes. Kinda reminds me of an updated colour block, but so long as you don’t wear a mustard and purple combo, you should be alright.

See the discussion of the cut out trend for Spring 2010 somewhere in this post Spring/ Summer Getups 2010.

Velvet

I’ve seen this one floating around, and I try not to pay too much attention to it.

Velvet is definitely one of those fabrics that you either love or despise. You either get it or don’t. It can be pretty masculine and/or overwhelming when worn, so ensure that your pieces are classic,  and well tailored, a la Halle Berry here in her September 2010 VOGUE spread.

And remember, velvet not velour.

In case you were wondering, a tracksuit doesn’t qualify as a ‘classic’ piece. Jenny left the block at least a decade ago.

The last trend worthy of mentioning…

Military

This comes back pretty frequently, perhaps because it never really leaves. Being a classic stiletto girl myself, I’ve never really paid this trend much attention BUT, I’m REALLY feeling it this year. Probably because they’re now military inspired rather than straight from the training camp. Less 18th century, more 20th century. More understated and functional, less… lashing-y. This goes for both male and female style.

Never got into the camouflage print, and I’m still not feeling it, sorry. Army green is the big colour for the military trend, but there’s also the navy option, which I’d opt for. A navy military jacket. Yum.

Another take on the military trend is the ‘Aviator’ inspiration, my fav largely because sleek, slim cuts work best for me than say… a cargo pant. Army green can have a tendency to make some of us look sallow. In this case we can go straight for the darker brown hues that are typically associated with the aviator trend – shearling lined, sleek leather jackets et al., much like the feature photo above. THESE ‘military’ takes I can do.

Talking about shearling, how about these fur babies?

Toundra Fur Boots | Louboutin

Sick.

But I digress.

Military boots. My word, military boots. It’s all about the laces. Male or female (high or low heeled) military boots are definitely the way to go. And after all, we aren’t REALLY going into combat are we guys? Right. No we aint. So less Caterpillar-esq and more…

All Saints Military-esq.

They look pretty fly on females too…

Not quite sure what Ms. Keri baby is promoting here, but…. the boots look nice.

Ladies if laces aren’t your thing, properly placed metal (less punk rock studs more biatch in charge) will suffice fabulously. Like these Alexander McQueens here.

Kick. Ass.

‘Must be a power thang.

b Freakin’Fabulous