How I Style My Hair Curly

Since I have been wearing my hair curly or wavy, I have received a lot of questions on how I style it.  

I was blessed or cursed with curly hair.  When I was younger it was a complete mess.  It was definitely hard to style but as I got older I embraced my curls when my hair was long.  So now that my hair is longer, I have been wearing my hair curly a lot more.

There are two ways to style my hair curly.  The first way is to go natural.  

For the natural curls, I wash my hair do not brush my hair and then let my hair air dry.  Styling my hair this way is a little unpredictable and sometimes causes lots of frizz.  But some days I am too lazy to take the other steps to make my hair curly.

The other way to style my hair curly is also pretty simple.  I use L.A. Looks Mega Hold styling gel.  

This gel is cheap ($2.99) and can be found at most drugstores.  I have been using this curl gel since I was a senior in high school and love the product for the price.

My L.A. Looks curls are a little more defined and less frizzy than if I go natural.

For styling my hair curly with the gel, I shower and wash my hair (again I do not brush my hair).  I have found brushing my hair pulls out my curls.  After showering, I stick my head in the sink and damp it again.  I then add a quarter size amount of the L.A. Looks gel to my palm and work through my hair scrunching to help add curls.  I then let my hair dry.  If the day is going to be humid my hair curls even more.

Reader Question - What to Wear to a Bachlorette Party?

Hi Alicia, In April, I will be attending a bachlorette party weekend in Miami. I am not sure what I should wear for the occasion. Do you have any suggestions? 

Thanks, L 

A bachlorette party is always a lot of fun, but as I have gotten older I am always torn on what to wear for an evening out especially if a club is involved. So I have put together six looks that could work in Miami. I also tried to be budget friendly because who wants to spend a fortune on looks for one weekend. 

Look 1: Little Black Dress 

I am sure all of us have a little black dress in our closets. A LBD could definitely work for a bachlorette party. When selected a LBD I would select one that is a little tighter fitting to show off your figure and look dressy for an evening out. For accessories, I would wear a pair of large chandelier earrings, a cocktail ring, and strappy heels. I selected a black lace dress because lace is a huge trend right now.

(Click on the Photo for Details of Each Item)

Look 2: Cocktail Dress 

If you don’t want to wear a black dress then you could also wear a different cocktail dress. I would again select a form fitting dress. I selected a red dress because red can be used for Christmas parties or Valentine’s Day. With the red dress, I selected silver accessories including a fun silver clutch. I selected open toe shoes because it could be really hot in Miami in April so I don’t want to have hot feet.

(Click on the Photo for Details of Each Item) 

Look 3: Color Block 

A huge trend for spring is color blocking. As I mentioned here, color blocking is simple to wear just stick to the color circle. I personally love combining red and pink. So a night in Miami for color blocking would be great with a pink skirt and red top. I paired the look with a neutral clutch trimmed in gold and nude heels. Nude heels help make your legs look longer and although not pumps these red heels are perfect for spring and Miami.

(Click on the Photo for Details of Each Item) 

Look 4: Sequins 

Sequins are always a fun look for a night out. I have been on the hunt for a sequin skirt for ages even though I don’t know where I would wear it. But if I were going to Miami for a bachlorette party I would have a reason. I really like the zig zag print of this sequin skirt. I picked a top with a little back details and strappy heels. Since the skirt has silver in it I selected silver bracelets and earrings.

(Click on the Photo for Details of Each Item)

Look 5: Ankle Length Pants 

If you are self conscious in wearing skirts and being on the dance floor, I recommend pants. But Miami in April pants will be a little too warm. So why not try ankle length pants. Ankle length pants still look extremely dressy and gorgeous with a pair of heels. I selected a pair of black ankle length pants and a silver sequin tank. Since the outfit is neutral colors (I think silver is neutral), I selected accessories to add a pop of color with the red heels, earrings, and clutch.

(Click on the Photo for Details of Each Item)

Look 6: Shorts and Blazer 

Pairing shorts and a blazer is nothing new but has been seen on many celebrities including Carrie Underwood. Fashion is all about mixing and matching. So mixing the shorts with a blazer you still looking classy but showing off your legs. For the bachlorette party look, I selected a pair of faux leather shorts, sequin tank (for a little sparkle) and a bright pink blazer. I love the shorts with a blazer but wanted the top to stand on its own if you were too warm to wear a blazer.

(Click on the Photo for Details of Each Item) 

What do you wear for going out?

Reader Question – Hair Care

I have received many comments and questions about my hair care products.  I am definitely not an expert when it comes to hair, but I thought I would share my tips and products that keep my hair shiny.

The first product that I will share is Pantene Pro-V Restoratives Time Renewal Replenishing Mask.  I use this product once a week.  I get my hair wet and then lather this product throughout my hair.  Then I take a cheap shower cap and place it on my head.  I keep the replenishing mask on my hair for about an hour and then rinse.

Throughout the rest of the week, I only wash my hair every other day.  If I dry my hair every day my hair starts to really dry out.  I’ve tried expensive products and cheap products for my hair but my favorite is the Pantene Pro-V Medium-Thick Solutions.  I use both the shampoo and conditioner. 

After my shower I take a towel to my hair and then use a comb to get the tangles out.  Once I have used the comb, I use my straightening product.  I have used Bumble Bumble Straight forever.  This is the only product that really keeps my hair straight (since I have naturally curly hair).  Then I start the drying process.  I wish I could let my hair dry naturally, but that is impossible so I use my trust hair dryer, flat brush, and round brush. 

I plan to share my drying and straightening technique next week. 

What hair products do you use?

Reader Question – What to Wear as a Private Tutor?

Hi Alicia,

I work as a private tutor on a college campus and was wondering what I should wear.  I am running around campus all day and want to look comfortable while still looking professional.

Thanks,

J

Looking professional while being on the go may seem challenging but there are some simple looks that are easy to pull off.

1.  Wear a neutral pant

An easy way to look professional is by selecting a neutral pant.  These pants can be picked up at a low cost and will look great.  Select colors such as black, grey, navy, or beige.  These colors go with many colors so you will get multiple uses out of these pants. 

Click on the photo to links to each item

2.  With the neutral pants where bright colors

As I have mentioned many times, I like pairing bright color tops with neutrals.  I feel the colors change my mood and make any look more pulled together.  When selecting a top be aware of fit.  You do not want to select tops that are too tight or too loose.  You need one that is just right (think Goldilocks).  You can wear knit tops or blouses depending one what you like best or buy a few that can be interchangeable.  

Click on the photo to links to each item

Although I have suggested bright colors, a white blouse is a great purchase because it would go with any color of the neutral pants.

Click on the photo to links to each item

3.  Select skirts that are above the knee

When you are on the go, you may want to wear skirts.  Skirts are very versatile because they can be worn with heels, flats, or boots.  Plus in the winter, you can wear skirts with tights.

To look professional, I recommend selecting skirts that hit right above the knee.  Skirts that are too short is not professional and you will be spend the day worried that your skirt is too shirt.

Don’t select skirts that are too long or you may look frumpy.

Click on the photo to links to each item

4.  Select a professional handbag

Women and men notice handbags if your handbag isn’t professional they will notice.  I suggest purchasing a leather structured satchel.  These bags will carry more items and will help when moving around on campus.  The items I have selected so far have been $50 or less.  The professional handbags I am selecting are a little more expensive, but will last longer.

Click on the photo to links to each item

5.  Invest in a good pair of flats

Generally, I would suggest wearing heels when meeting with students or clients in a professional setting.  Your legs will look longer and leaner.  However, walking to and from meetings requires a good set of flats.  You can put the flats in your satchel and put them on for walking.  This will save your legs in the long run.  For flats, I would go with shoes that you know are comfortable.  I personally like Cole Haan and Me Too.  Cole Haan has Nike Air soles and is really comfortable.  Me Too is a brand that is lesser in price than Cole Haan and is just as comfortable (maybe even more!)

Click on the photo to links to each item

Hope these tips help!  If you have any questions that you would like answered email me at fashionbyalicia@yahoo.com.

Tip Tuesday – Making Jeans Work Appropriate

I recently received a reader question asking how to make jeans dressy and work appropriate.  Now, some offices may not allow jeans, but other jobs may be open and allow them.  So I will provide tips for wearing jeans to work as well as some options for looks with jeans.

1.  Do not wear light color jeans

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First, I am not a fan of light denim I think of 80s rockers when I see light denim.  Leave the light denim at the store, ladies.  White wash denim is a big no no.  So select dark denim especially at the office.

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2.  Select jeans that fit

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You do not want to wear skin tight jeans at the office.  Select jeans that fit you and are not so tight that you can’t bend over.  You do not want jeans that create the dreaded muffin top or have skin hanging over.  This isn’t appropriate any time but definitely isn’t work appropriate.

I would select either a boot cut jean or a trouser jean so that the jeans fit perfectly for work.

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3.  Do not wear jeans with sequins or glitter on the pockets

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I am not saying you can’t wear jeans with different stitching on the pockets.  I am saying avoid glitter and sequins.  If the jeans look like they came from the juniors department I would probably avoid them but definitely avoid them at the office.

Here are some looks that are appropriate for the office:

Look #1:

Trouser Jeans with a white blouse, leopard pumps and brown satchel

Old Navy Women's Braidedtrim Trouser Jeans - $37.00

White Three-Quarter Sleeve Shirt – Alfani - $38.00

Sole Boutique The Ashland Shoe – Leopard - $19.95

Michael Kors Hamilton Satchel - $348

Look #2:

Boot cut dark denim jeans, red top, black blazer, and red pumps

Old Navy Women's The Diva Bootcut Jeans - $39

Old Navy Women's Sleeveless Tieneck Top - $19.50

Banana Republic Wool Black Blazer - $198

Nine West Flax - $69

Look #3:

Skinny Jeans (not too tight), front bow tie blouse, beige cape, and brown flats

Old Navy Women’s The Diva Skinny Jeans - $27.50 

Texas Blue Belle Top - $34.99

Calvin Klein Cape - $179

Nine West – Calax - $71.10

I hope these tips when selecting jeans that are work appropriate.  If you have any questions that you would like to be answered for Tip Tuesday email me at fashionbyalicia@yahoo.com.

Reader Question - Shoes for a Wedding

Have I told you how much I love reader questions?  Well I do.  I love helping my readers answer all of their fashion questions.

This week’s reader question concerns shoes for a wedding.

Hi Alicia,

I purchased this Marc Jacobs dress from Bluefly.com for a wedding in Malibu.  I have no idea of what kind or color of shoes to wear.  Do you have any suggestions?

Thanks,

A

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Let me first say, how gorgeous is this dress?  I love it!  It will be perfect for a wedding especially one in Malibu (can I say jealous!).

With this dress, I think there are several options of shoe to wear.  I think you could select black strappy heels and carry a black clutch or select metallic shoes preferably gold with a gold clutch.

I am always on a budget so I selected shoes under $100.

Black Options 

Click on the photo for links to each item 

Gold Options

Click on the photo for links to each item 

I hope these options will help "A" look fabulous in Malibu.

If you have any questions for me regarding fashion, feel free to email me at fashionbyalicia@yahoo.com.

Tip Tuesday – Day To Night

I have received several reader questions regarding taking a look from day to night.  Since I live in Florida, my nightlife is a little more relaxed than other cities, but I think this look could work in most areas.

The Day look is simple look.  Take a simple dress (I selected a white dress) and pair with a cardigan.  I used a black cardigan and then belted the cardigan with a teal belt to add a little color to the look.  For the daytime look, I used a larger black purse to carry more items and flats.  The look for day has minimal jewelry.

 

White Dress – Old Navy (no longer available) – Similar

Black Cardigan – Target
Black Flats – Bass Outlet (no longer available) – Similar
Turquoise Belt – Target (no longer available) – Similar
Black Purse – Coach - Gift

To take this daytime look to night, I removed the black cardigan and turquoise belt and placed a thicker black belt around my waist.  I also removed the flats and put on heels.  I switched the black purse to a turquoise clutch and added turquoise jewelry.  This night look would be perfect for drinks with your girlfriends or a date.

 

White Dress – Old Navy (no longer available) – Similar

Black Stretch Belt – Kohls (no longer available) – Similar
Women's Mossimo® Patsy Sandals – Black – Target
Turquoise Clutch – Downtown Divas Jacksonville (not available online) – Similar
Turquoise & Black Necklace – Gift

My main tip for taking a daytime look to night is to add more accessories and heels.  Just by taking these simple steps your look can go from work to a night out!

Can Round Body Types Wear Belts?

I love receiving reader questions through email, twitter, or Facebook.  I recently received a reader question regarding wearing belts. 

Hi Alicia,

I really enjoyed your outfit with the black belt.  It made you have such a small waist.  I have a round body.  Can I wear belts to create a waist?

Thanks,

Tina

So can anyone wear belts?  The answer is it depends.  I know, I know a very lawyer like answer.  But really it does depend.  First, you do not have to wear belts to create a waist and if belts aren’t your style don’t wear them.  You want to be comfortable in everything you wear and if you aren’t comfortable then don’t wear them.

Now here are some tips for a round or apple body typea and wearing belts.  If you have a round or apple body shape you want to create an hourglass body shape. That’s right an hourglass.  Think Marilyn Monroe and discovering your curves.  Since you are an apple or round shape body you carry your weight in the middle, but you can still create curves. 

There are several ways to create curves. 

Tip #1 – Balance Proportions 

You will want to show off skin but not too much skin (no one wants to see your female anatomy unless they are a perve).  So show a little leg with a skirt or a lower cut top but not too low cut.  When showing off skin select tops that fit the smallest part of your torso (right below your tatas). 

 

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This is obviously showing too much skin. 

Look for tops that have darts or seems that fit the smallest part of your body.  You may have to take a tailor to get this effect.

Click on the photo above for links to each item

Tip #2 – Wear Solid Colors and Layer

Solid colors and layering really help round or apple body types.  Layering will help create curves.  Here is a look for layering:

Click on the photo above for links to each item

Tip #3 – Wear a Belt

If you are a round or apple body type you can wear a belt.  Cinch your waist to create that hourglass look.  Remember when selecting a belt to pay attention to your proportions.  If you are petite select a skinny belt.  A larger belt will cut your body and make you look shorter.  If you are taller you can go with a thicker belt.  To wear a belt find the thinnest part of your torso and that is wear your belt should be located.

Click on the photo above for links to each item

I hope these tips help.  If you have any questions or would like fashion questions answered email me at fashionbyalicia@yahoo.com

Tip Tuesday – Leggings

This week you are getting a Tip and a Trend on Tuesday.  How lucky are you?  I am sure you are THRILLED! 

I received a question from one of my readers asking the age appropriateness of leggings.  I started to think about leggings and really wasn’t sure of the correct response.  So I asked on twitter and basically got the same response leggings are okay for any age as long as you don’t wear them as pants.  So I decided to put together a list of tips for wearing leggings for any age (unless you are a grandma then I’d avoid leggings).

Tip #1 – Leggings Do NOT Equal Pants

 

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This tip requires repeating – leggings ARE NOT pants!  You cannot wear them as pants!!  Leggings fabric is thin (think tights) so if you wear them as pants people will be getting an anatomy show.

Tip #2 – Do Not Mix Leggings With A Tight Top

 

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Mixing a tight top and leggings equals a straight mess.  You will not have any shape and it will look unflattering.  Pick tops that are fuller.

Tip #3 – No Aerobic Party

 

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When selecting leggings you do not want a metallic legging or a bright color that makes you look like you have stepped out of an aerobic party or the 80’s.  Select neutral colors like black, grey, and tan.  These colors will be more flattering and you won’t look like you need to work out with Richard Simmons.

How To Wear Leggings

Here are some examples on how to wear leggings.

 

Click on the Photo Above for Links to Each Item

Pair leggings with a shirtdress, a long sweater, a skirt, or a tunic.

Would You Wear Leggings?

Nude Pumps

I recently received a question from a reader asking me what to pair with nude pointed toe pumps.  I love shoes and as I started thinking about the question I decided to answer it through a blog post and give some ideas for an outfit for the nude pump.

Click on the Photo for links to the Items