7 Ways to Conquer Your Fashion Fears
By Audrey Slater, REDBOOK
It's too trendy. I'll look like a clown in that super-bright makeup. I'll look like a fat clown in those pants. Stop it! These bold fashion and beauty trends are so pretty and flattering, there's nothing to fear but looking awesome.
1. A Maxi Skirt
We dare you to find anything sister-wifey about this skirt. Can't do it, can you? It's all in the happy-making color and the silky sway of the fabric that hints at what's underneath when you walk. Add a simple turtleneck and you're as sleek as can be.
Skirt, Mango, $60. Turtleneck, Inhabit, $150. Necklace, Bajalia, $120. Cuff, Alexandra Beth Designs, $168. Rings, Kara Ackerman Designs, $75 each. Flats, Candela, $245.
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2. Teal Shadow
This ain't no '80s flashback, trust us: Rich teal shadow looks fresh and very cool now. "It's fantastic on everyone," Matin says. "Pick one with sheen, which takes the edge off the intensity." Sweep it along your lashes and use your finger to blend it up to the crease, which creates a faded effect. Then top it off with black mascara.
Laura Mercier Sateen Eye Colour in St. Germain, $22.
3. Anything With a Peplum
Before you look at this '40s-era flourish and think, Yeah, not on my hips, take note: An otherwise trimly cut jacket like this one, paired with slim pants, gives anyone a showstopping hourglass of a figure.
Blazer, H&M, $39.95. Tank, Brulee, $128. Pants, Talbots, $119. Necklace, MiMi by Sorelli, $161. Bracelets from top, Kate Spade New York, $148, Stella & Dot, $89. Rings, Isharya, $178 for 3. On model throughout: Orly Nail Lacquer in You're Blushing, $7.50.
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4. Bold Blush and a Fun Hair Clip
How's this for a double shot of energy? First, swirl a blush you can actually see on the apples of your cheeks; poppy pink works on every skin tone. Then, tuck a flashy-pretty clip or comb into the side of a low bun. Couldn't be easier.
BareMinerals Ready Blush in The French Kiss, $22. Hair comb, Jennifer Behr, $225. Dress, French Connection, $238.
5. Printed Pants
These are probably the biggest trend out there for spring, and for good reason: In silky fabrics and slim, not pj-ish cuts, they're figure-friendly (and crazy comfortable). Balance them out with neutral, slightly flowy pieces on top.
Pants, Tucker, $292. Blouse, Vince Camuto, $125. Blazer, 525 America, $298. Necklaces from top, Hamilton Jewelers, $495, Biko, $75. Bracelets from top, KumKum, $476, Gorjana, $50. Flats, Daniblack, $155.
6. Hot Pink Lips
This is as close as you get to a face-lift in a tube. Vivid lipstick wakes up your complexion instantly (and makes you feel great). Choose a more coral shade if your skin is yellow-y or olive, and a blue-based pink if your skin is pink-toned or dark. Dab it on with your finger, "which looks softer than applying it straight from the tube," says makeup artist Matin, who created the looks here.
Nars Pure Matte Lipstick in Carthage, $25. Earrings, Kara Ackerman Designs, $200.
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7. Colorful Lace
A hue this vibrant, material this luxe-there's a lot to love here. The key to feeling confidently covered in a sheer top is wearing a skin-tone tank underneath. And go for something more conservative on the bottom, like this sweet pencil skirt.
Lace tank, Yoana Baraschi, $205. Nude tank, Hanro of Switzerland, $135. Skirt, Eva Franco, $163. Earrings, Madame Mathilde, $175. Bracelets from top, Rebekah Price, $100, Melinda Maria, $150 and $60. Heels, L.L.Bean Signature, $159.
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