Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Hollyweird Style

Summer in Los Angeles is a garden of style inspiration - from the strange things tourists wear to see-through tops worn without a bra, nipples blazing. Whether you live in LA LA Land or not, you can certainly embrace these hot ticket Hollyweird looks.

Vintage '50s Sheer Pintuck Party Dress - Bustown Vintage

I was sifting through one of my favorite vintage haunts last weekend when I met a stranger's proud perky B-cups, standing alert behind a gauzy see-through top. Like everyone else, she came looking for cheap used clothes - instead, she found my heart on a silver platter. It takes a pendulum pair of balls to show your tits that breezily, but I'm sold.

If you wish to recreate this stare-guaranteed, but fashion-titan achievement:
  • Opt for darker tones like sheer wine or sheer black. You're less likely to get thrown out of a Target or cause a three-car pileup.
  • Wear a sheer blouse with jeggings, skinny jeans or layered black shorts + tights. In other words, don't show off more skin than your focal point.
  • Wear a femme tuxedo-style fitted jacket in case you have to cover up.
  • Prepare to be stared at, but don't surrender to insecurity! Attitude is key. The self-confidence you carry with this look is what makes it sexy and empowering. This is single-handedly the most important factor.
The last rule: only rock this look if you have A to B cups. Sorry, Busty Betties, but if your cups runneth over, this look is sincerely not for you. A small set of twins in sheer is bold, fearless-- heroic even! But if you have Salma Hayeks, the look goes from runway to triple-X really fast. Don't despair - let the IBTC have their moment in the sun.



Every boutique on Melrose Avenue is pimping the Welcome Back, Jumper Romper. This '80s inspired one-piece playsuit is a great alternative to wearing a dress and just as low-maintenance. You can find them everywhere these days - from vintage stores and boutiques to Urban Outfitters and Target.

I tried on a strapless plaid playsuit from the latter while my husband shopped for cheap shirts. I quickly learned not all jumpers are created equal. Here's what to look for:
  • Many summer rompers are sleeveless or spaghetti strapped. If you opt for one of these, make sure it provides support for the girls (like the Mod Cloth jumper above). Beware of cheap fabrics and poor construction.
  • In a world with three primary sizes - Small, Medium and Large - it goes without saying that a well-fitting jumper may take a couple tries. Look for number sizes as opposed to S/M/L. You'll want to make sure the crotch fits comfortably - not hanging 'round your knees or worse, the dreaded camel toe. It should rest like a pair of comfy cloth shorts. Double-check for wedgies too.
The last question on your quest for the perfect romper: should you go vintage or retail? Both have their merits. You'll never bump into someone at Urban Outfitters wearing the same jumper if you buy vintage. Then again, modern jumpers may have better fit. It's up to you.

More to come!