iwantmk.comLuanne Storer,IBC

In keeping with our Oscar trend theme, this week I want to look a little more closely at the asymmetrical, one-shouldered neckline.  This was a wildly popular choice by stars at the Oscars, which I mentioned in ‘The Top Trends from the Oscar Red Carpet’.  (Take a look!)  As promised, I want to go further in depth to see how you can make this trend work for you, as it is a big-time spring must.  The very best reason to don this dynamic look is because it will undoubtedly flatter your figure.  Everyone looks good in an asymmetrical item because of the way that it draws the eye upward, away from any lower-half flaws.  It’s a great way to show off your shoulders, which are one of women’s sexiest assets, and arms which most of us don’t mind showcasing either.  The way the fabric is angled against the body balances out any in-proportion that you may have, and overall looks fresh, fun, and fearless.  You are guaranteed to turn heads.  Turning an Oscar-worthy trend into one that works for every day is simple.  Here’s a look at the inspiration:

             Kate Winslet in Yves Saint Laurent                                Freida Pinto in John Galliano

                Marisa Tomei in Versace                                          Nancy O’Dell in Pamela Rolland

How’s that for motivation to trendlift ??  Now that we see how the stars do it, let’s investigate how we can do it just as fabulously!

Seriously…take a moment to imagine all the possibilities this dress offers…they’re endless.  This is uber-flattering; who doesn’t look amazing in basic black?  And as I stated previously, the neckline is one of the most universally flattering to women of all shapes, all sizes.  GOT to love that!  Like the model herself, this insanely affordable dress is a blank canvas upon which you may create the most gorgeous of scenes.  Let me offer some ideas:

             American Apparel $42.00   

          American Apparel $18.00  These tights come in five show-stopping colors and they’re just the punch you need to contrast with the black and make the dress come alive.

          Pink Ice $12.99  A long necklace looks striking with an asymmetrical neckline.  A quirky pendant gives the outfit charm and fluidity, as you don’t want to be all angles.

          Pink Ice $24.99  Once you’ve incorporated gold, you want to stick with it.  Choose gold details like buckles on shoes and purses for consistency which guides the eye instead of confusing it.

       Merona for Target $17.99 This adorable green tote is earthy enough to make the outfit feel soft and effortless, yet just punchy enough to bring it all together with an air of sophistication.  The short handles of this tote style is key for our neckline because a long strap would interrupt the deliberate lines.  Although I don’t encourage “matchy-matchy”, I do suggest tying all pieces together, especially when it comes to color.  What looks haphazard and unique on the pages of a high fashion magazine, may look disheveled and unappealing in real life.  There are no rules, but making an outfit work, with many different elements, does depend on consistency.

Of course there are many many other just as relevant details as there are birds in the sky, so you can accessorize your little heart out; this is just a jumping-off point.  Now you try-it’s like painting your own Picasso, and you, my dear, are the canvas.  Get to creating!

Because fashion should be fun, not fundamental!

Katie