High Low skirt - an undecided mind, or another option?

I recently purchased a High Low black jersey skirt as a casual option for my upcoming cruise, and just to have another piece for what I call my weekend wear. The High Low skirt or dress has in fact been in existence since the 1950's as a Balanciaga design. The High Low silhouette like any other design comes in many variations. I like it for summer because you have the lower hem of a maxi skirt, as well as a higher hem in the front to catch that summer breeze. I also like it because you get to show a little leg, which is always a good thing. For hem control be mindful of the designer or line you purchase from. Stores for younger women may have a much higher hemline than say those targeted to the more mature set.

The skirt I purchased:

Ann Taylor Jersey High Low Hem Skirt - $68

I love this skirt because it is different in terms of the asymmetrical cut being more shallow than many High Low designs you see. Also the material is sooooo comfortable. This skirt is flattering on all body types and comes in three colors. I styled a client with a fuller waist and pear shaped proportions in this skirt and she looked great. You may think this length is not a good one because it cuts you off at the knee. The reason this works is because of the High Low hem. True, the length in the back may be bad, but it's in the back so in fact it provides a little something extra as well as a bit of modesty for the shorter length in the front, which is in fact a very flattering length.

Here is another one that is a bit more dressy but beautiful and again, a very flattering design:

bebe High Low Skirt - $80

This is a much more extreme High Low hem than the first, but I think it's sexy, and fun and it works for a few reasons. The High hem in the front has a little sexy, but it's still low enough to leave something to the imagination. This is great for younger woman, or a mature woman with great legs. Also the back cascades evenly down around the legs with soft pleating, so there is no tail effect. You can still wear a variety of style of shoes with this skirt, but it is not as casual as my purchase so accessorize accordingly

Now this one I'm not a fan of:

Asos Collection Skirt with High Low Hem

 I really don't like how high the hem in the front is. The extreme low back actually make the front seem shorter than the micor-mini it is. In this case there is no modesty. I feel even with the low back you still couldn't sit in this skirt because you'd have to worry too much about the front being exposed. This I believe is what critics mean when they say the High Low hem is for people who couldn't decide if they wanted to wear short or long, or in this case, ankle length or micro-mini. I also think the the extremely narrow design of the back creates a tail like silhouette which.... is a little costumey for my taste and just not cute.

That's the skinny on the High Low. Don't forget to follow us on twitter @amandastylesyou and please leave comments or questions. If there is a style challenge in your life, or a recent design or trend you have questions about, we are here to help.

Love Your Body, Work Your Body

Two mantras I recite to my clients almost on a daily basis are: "Dress for the body you have" and "It's not your body, it's the clothes!". In my opinion the two greatest inhibitors of great style are lack of knowledge, and body image issues. The first is much easier to overcome. If a person simply doesn't understand the guidelines of how to achieve great personal style, a little push in the right direction sets them off on a wonderful world of polish, poshness, and professionalism in their dress. On the other hand, body image issues can be thorny and difficult problems to overcome that are sometimes wrought with years of abuse, self esteem problems, or a change resulting in gaining or losing weight, having a baby, or getting older. 

I can't help but become a bit miffed when I see beautiful women who try to hide their bodies or express dismay when a dress doesn't fit they way they expected. It's hard to see women tear themselves down because they believe wholeheartedly that they are the problem. Having a baby should be celebrated, you brought new life. Getting older should be done with grace. It's a natural process and one we should all be prepared for. Gaining weight or losing weight happens. What's important is to not use the clothing as a crutch. Wearing pieces that no longer fit you brings attention to the changes you've gone through. Instead of noticing the beautiful cashmere sweater you've taken the time to pair with your creme pants, all anyone will see is how ill fitted your outfit is. Making the mistake of wearing something that longer fits (or never did fit) also contributes to the vicious cycles of low self esteem, and a negative body image. 

I love what I do because I help women and men remember why it's important to care about how you look and to take pride in dressing well every day and not just for special occasions. It's very gratifying to see the smile or hear the sigh of relief when I step in to assist and give them a piece that compliments their body. Being a stylist is about understanding bodies of all shapes. Some are more challenging than others but no woman or man is without hope. With many clients the change does not happen over night. It's starts with a great fitting pair of jeans and one not too bright color that is not black. Ladies (and Gentlemen) I challenge you to first Love your body, and then Work your body. You may not change how you feel overnight, but looking great helps. And if you need assistance, booking an appointment with a great stylist will help to ease the stress of making the change.

For style tips, trends and ideas check back here and don't forget to follow me on twitter @amandastylesyou 

to book a closet consultation or a style session or personal shopping appointment email  us at amandastylesyou@gmail.com