Hope's How-To

Style - Hope's How-To

I’m not sure which I detest more: The WOMAN who doesn’t correctly wear red lipstick, or the ARTICLE that incorrectly advises the woman on how to wear red lipstick.

Either way, these are my three simple, fail-safe rules for rouge:

1. CHOOSE THE RIGHT RED. Yes, there can be a wrong red. Ivory-or-lighter-based complexions (think Nicole Kidman) should stick with a blue-based (cold-coloured) red. Olive-based complexions (think Jennifer Aniston) should wear a brown-based (warm-coloured) red. [I’m a lover of CHANEL Rouge Allure in Passion (14). It’s the perfect companion for my alabaster complexion.]

2. LINE YOUR LIPS. Before applying red lip colour, be sure to line your lips in the same shade, if for no other reason than not wanting to look like a freshly-fed vampire. Read my lips: Red lipstick bleeds.

3. WEAR IT RIGHT. You’re wearing red lipstick to make a statement, so make it with your lips and your lips only. Forget le drame of flushed cheeks and smoked-out eyes, or you’ll risk looking like you smoked up before you applied your make-up.

CHANEL Rouge Allure Lipcolour available for $30 at Saks.com.

Style - Hope's How-To

Can we just talk for a minute about how menswear is having a huge impact at Fashion Week, almost spending as much time strutting the runways as ruffles and lace for Fall/Winter 2008?

I think I’m in love.

Jens Laugesen, Margaret Howell, and Topshop are just three — to name a few — of the shows thus far at London Fashion Week that have showcased some serious men’s-inspired style. What I love about menswear-inspired clothing is its versatility and ability to be all-figure flattering.

A pair of high-waisted, wide-leg trousers are just as palatable for any figure as a pair of high-waisted skinny-leg trousers; they’ll take you from work to play, and worn right are figure-friendly. In a shade like black or grey, you can use them as a base for some other flashes of colour — jewel tones, anyone?

Perhaps the most practical piece I’ve seen so far while scouring show photos is the fitted blazer. While Jens Laugesen’s features some serious shoulder padding, — I cringe, — Topshop showcased a tuxedo fit (think less dramatic) with patched pockets in their Unique collection that reminds me of Kate Moss’s line for said store. Contrast that with the Margaret Howell models sporting Howell’s hacking-style jacket, and you’ve got three styles to choose from your Fall/Winter 2008 wardrobe.

Menswear is nothing if not sharp. If you’re not completely comfortable suiting up in head-to-toe boyfriend garb, why not work one or two menswear-inspired pieces in with some of your more feminine looks? I’m thinking a fitted blazer over a ruffled, floral-print dress, or high-waisted wide-leg trousers paired with a frilly, boatneck blouse would provide some seriously sassy contrast.

You can even start sporting the menswear-inspired look now; who wants to wait for next fall? Remember to pair the look with dramatic jewelry – some over-sized peridot studs, a crystal cocktail ring, a thick-banded watch – and other look-appropriate accoutrements.

Check out Coutorture’s fabulous on-going Fashion Week coverage here.

Style - Hope's How-To

Structured dresses – maxi-, midi-, and mini-lengths – featuring ruffles, lace, and even leather are all over the runways for Fall 2008. And while a little bit of leather goes a long way, my favourite frock is probably the most easy:

The structured shift.

I had no doubt that the shift dress would have a strong presence during the Fall 2008 shows; the shift dress is iconic, and it’s the picture of effortless elegance.

Although we’re still far from fall, spring is right around the corner, and it’s never too early to work a look or two from the Fall 2008 runways into your wardrobe.

Paired with sky-high heels or ballerina flats, wearing a shift dress is simple. Cover it with a cute cardi (or wear it alone in warmer months), and accessorize with some show-stopping earrings or bright-colored bracelets.

I love this shift dress from Victoria’s Secret. A beautiful blend of linen and cotton, this sheath features side slit pockets, seaming details at the bust, and decorative beading around the neckline. A hemline that hits just over the knee makes it both work- and play-appropriate.

And the price is unbeatable.

Victoria’s Secret shift dress, $79, VictoriasSecret.com

Style - Hope's How-To

What could be better than a place where bloggers everywhere can post their favourite picks from the worlds of fashion, technology, interior design…?

This femme says not much.