Essential Couture: Undergarments

I have found, as my body shape has changed, that if I don't think I look good in something I either don't buy it or it goes back into the depths of my closet and I often forget that I have it. I think this is probably true for most women. No one's body is perfect (no, not even those celebrities) and we all have days where we have a little too much here or a little too much there. The key to looking great on the outside is also looking great on the inside and that all starts with the right undergarments.

Abs, Butt, Thighs, and Gams: (L) Spanx Skinny Britches Shorts $42; Spanx Tight End Shaping Tights $26; Spanx In Power Super Higher Power $38; Spanx High Waisted Body Tunic Slimmer $72 

This group of Shapewear is ideal for women who are looking to slim and smooth the lower half of their bodies. The Skinny Britches are perfect for low rise jeans or pants because it provides the perfect amount of slimming power without being too high rise. Tights are a must have in anyone's wardrobe and these Tight End Shaping tights have a control top, perfect for long tunics or sweaters. The In Power Super Higher Power Spanx are very similar to the Skinny Britches but they come up higher on the waist for added tummy control. Finally, the High Waisted Body Tunic is high waisted for tummy control but very short in the legs, ideal for shorter skirts or even shorts that are made of thin material, such as linen.

Instant Lift and Tuck: (L) Spanx Nude Scoop Neck Top $95; Spanx Open Bust Camisole $95; Spanx Lingerie Strap Camisole $52

Camisoles should be in everyone's closet, no exceptions. If there is one piece of shapewear to live by, it would be this one. I think most women are most self conscious about their pooch, muffin top, rolls, etc. Camisoles help to tighten and smooth this area so you can be confident in wearing your favorite blouse or top. It also provides extra support for the girls, which for those of us that are a little more top heavy, will help in relieving back pain.

Dressed to Impress: (L) Spanx Strappy Slip $76; Spanx "Slimmer and Shine" Strapless Slip $98

Finally, there is the classic slip. Slips have been around for ages but for a long time were loose and flimsy silk things. Spanx has redefined the slip to be form fitting which allows the body to take on a more svelte shape and provides more confidence when adorning fitted, skin tight cocktail numbers.

Blissful Couture's Rules for Undergarments

1. Get what fits! Don't try and squeeze into a smaller size thinking it will make you look thinner; it won't!
2. Invest in a good bra! There are beautiful lace and crystal embellished bras out there but ladies, if you are a D or DD, skip the fancy stuff and get a good fitting bra. Not only will it make your girls look better in everything you wear, but it also will immensely reduce the pressure on your back.
3. If you wear a thong with dresses or skirts, wear shapewear! There is nothing more unattractive than seeing a woman in a beautiful summer dress turn around and watch her jiggle from side to side. The shapewear will make the dress much more flattering. 

One final note on shapewear, as you will notice all of the pieces that I pulled were from the Spanx line. No I am not affiliated by Spanx, nor am I compensated for this post. I simply chose this company because it is what I know since it is what I have worn for years. Do some research though and find what works for you. There are several other shapewear companies that do equally as good of a job and some of them are a bit more affordable as well.

-BC

Essential Couture: Coats

I believe that every girl should have certain essentials in their wardrobe. This week long series will go through what I think are the most important essentials, where to find them at a reasonable price and how to style them.

The classic trench: (L) Burberry London Cotton Poplin Short trench $1095; (R) Topshop A-Line Piped Trench $136

The leather bomber: (L) Gucci Camel Biker Leather $3875; (R) Express Leather Jacket $98

Double Breasted Peacoat: (L) The Row Fantene Peacoat $2190; (R) Gap Swing Peacoat $70

Puffer Ski Coat: (L) Burberry London Longmerton Lightweight Puffer Coat $1095; (R) Gap Hooded Fur Trim Puffer $130

Denim Jacket: (L) R13 Denim Jacket $425; (R) Moto Crop Denim Indigo $76

Faux Fur Coat: (L) Marc by Marc Jacobs Ricky Raccoon Faux Fur Jacket $535; (R) Kate Faux Fur Coat $83

All of these pieces are timeless, meaning that if you find one you love, you will more than likely get good use out of it because these pieces will never go out of style. In addition, all of these pieces can be worn dressed up with a cocktail dress and heels, or dressed down with riding boots and jeans. While the puffer, peacoat and faux fur coats are more autumn/winter items, the trench, denim jacket, and the leather jacket can definitely be four season items, making them that much more versatile. I chose to show case jackets in neutral colors because I love the classic black, camel and khaki colors for coats, but don't be afraid to experiment with color, especially if you plan on wearing an all black ensemble.

-BC