Alex Perry

Alex Perry On How to Get Your Style Back After Having a Baby

Rescu Team — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 15:15:03 GMT

After having a baby, it can be hard to get your sense of style back. Alex Perry gives us some sure fire glamour tips to get us out of our jeggings and into the groove after having a baby!

Alex Perry's Top 5 Red Carpet Looks to Suit Every Body Shape

Rescu Team — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 10:10:44 GMT

RESCU Fashion and Glamour expert, Alex Perry, gives us his Top 5 Red Carpet looks from the 2012 Oscars that suit every body type, and how they can detox your body proportion!

Alex Perry at David Jones Autumn/Winter 2012 Fashion Launch Talks Exclusively to Rescu

Rescu Team — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 10:10:53 GMT

Alex Perry, the design dynamo, talks to Rescu about his bridal capsule collection, his fondness for Australian models and why the waist is always in at Alex Perry.

Alex Perry's Top Looks from the 2012 Golden Globes

Rescu Team — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 13:13:45 GMT

Golden Globes Glam and Beyond: Alex Perry weighs in on his favourite frocks from the Golden Globes and tells us how we can take everyday inspiration from these looks.

Alex Perry on Summer's Most Glamorous Must-Haves

Super User — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 0:00:05 GMT

What pieces should we invest in to keep us looking fabulously gorgeous this season? What are the rules of engagement this party season? What's hot, what's not and what will make us sparkle like a diamond in a sea of cubic zirconias?

I love the craziness of December. As the heat intensifies, the festive season hits full tilt and the giddy mix goes to our heads like a crisp cold glass of French champagne. It’s the time of year to party, play and preen to the enth degree. But don’t let the bubbles and heat effect your glamour factor! As we make the frenzied dash to years’ end, no one wants to look like a sweaty washed up wreck, wearing Snookie’s cast offs. There are some key fashion essentials guaranteed to have you looking hotter than the Bondi sun in December, and sparkling like a diamond in a sea of cubic zirconias.

Read on for my list of the most glamorous Summer must-haves this party season, guaranteed to have YOU wardrobe-ready for fabulous fun in and out of the sun ...

Alex Perry Tells Us What To Wear To The Office Christmas Party

Super User — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 13:13:00 GMT

By Alex Perry
www.alexperry.com.au

As the Festive season fast approaches, so does that time of year when inhibitions bubble dangerously close to the surface, alcohol acts as a truth serum and fashion faux pas abound. So just what is the appropriate level of glamour to take to the office party and avoid being branded the Brynne Edelston of your organisation?

Never fear – Al is here to once again to ensure you get a promotion in the glamour stakes, rather than a dressing down from your boss for your tawdry attire.

Work functions are an extension of your professional day. NOT an opportunity to get plastered, tell your colleagues what you really think of them or pash the cute mail boy in your favourite nite club size-of-a-band-aid skirt. Save the micro mini sequinned boob tube for Saturday night with the girls. Keep your after-hours party look just as “on brand” when attending work functions as you would during your official working day. They key is to look for great “Desk to Dinner” [D2D] dresses that can take you from your working day, and be transformed into a fun - but not trashy - party look by night.

Go for dresses with asymmetrical, strapless or shoe-string strap necklines that look great after 5pm, but can be worn with a chic tailored jacket during the work day.

Opt for necklines that are well supported and not too plunging and revealing.

A fitted sheath dress with hemline that sits on or just above the knee is office appropriate but can equally get its groove on after the cocktails flow.

Black is always a safe option, but the festive season is a great time to try this season’s hottest trend – colour. Whether a bold head to toe bright, a “pop” of colour with accessories, or all over colour blocking ... colour is always festive and fun. Yet it can be pared back for day by wearing back with conservative neutral accessories.

Add accessories that sparkle. This is the classic D2D trick – add a sparkly shoe, necklace, earrings and clutch purse to any corporate work wear look and voila – just add champagne and you are instantly party ready. The more conservative your dress, the larger, sparklier and bolder the accessories can be.

Stow away the sensible ballet flats and slip on a sky high stiletto or fierce platform for a maximum glamour uplift to any outfit.

Maintain polished groomed and sophisticated styling. Slick hair into a smooth high ponytail, matt down foundation and add a shaded sooty eye or a bright high voltage lip. Stay away from garish eye colours, glitter highlights anywhere, frosted anything or any makeup look that’s too “on trend”. Fragrance, deodorant and mouthwash are a must to keep in your desk drawer.

Last but not least ... don’t get messy! Alternate each glass of alcohol with mineral water and leave EARLY. Before the mistletoe gets the better of you, the karaoke suddenly seems like a good idea or the bar top podium calls your name. Stay only for the obligatory 2-3hours and ensure that you speak to all relevant bosses and corporate hierarchy [without slurring]. If it helps, make a late dinner date with friends afterwards to ensure you eject ... BEFORE your make up smudges like a crack-whore, shoes are flung to far corners of the room narrowly missing your bosses wife and dresses are hiked sky high in an effort to do the limbo with previously mentioned mail boy.

You can thank me in the New Year when you’re not still wearing the disco dress in the unemployment line!

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1. How to Wear Coloured Lace
2. Alex Perry On How To Wear Volume
3. Alex Perry On How To Wear Futuristic Fabrics And Fashion Forward Shapes

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Alex Perry On How To Wear Coloured Lace

Super User — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 13:13:00 GMT

By Alex Perry
www.alexperry.com.au

The very mention of lace sends most of us hurtling into a horror flashback to Nanna’s doilies, cheap hooker lingerie or frothy 80’s concoctions made from scratchy nylon. Thankfully, the new lace is far from tawdry. In recent seasons, lace has been a regular feature on runways, red carpets and in stores around the globe. This season our new modern classic embraces one of the hugest trends of the season – colour! Sounds a little Scary Spice? Not if you follow my tips below on how to wear coloured lace glamorously ... without looking one bit Madonna in “Desperately Seeking Susan” meets the “Happy Hooker “.

1. Keep the silhouette and shape simple. Give the texture of the lace and the volume of the bright colour enough room to be heard. Keep the silhouette and shape of the dress really simple, sleek and modern showcases lace to its best advantage. Steer away from ruffles, frills, flounces and too tricky design features as they will immediately send the lace to the street corner.

2. Sheer lace over skin. A discreet peek-a-boo sheer lace sleeve or high neckline with strapless or backless foundation is so incredibly glamorous and demure! A super chic way to show some skin without cheapening the look. If covering arms and décolletage entirely in lace, a micro short skirt instantly makes the shape modern and young rather than dowager bride.

3. Great lengths. Keep hemlines micro short, fitted sheaths long to the ground or just on the ladylike knee. Anything else is frumpy, matronly and just plain daggy. If opting for micro, be sure to cover up everything else ... or risk being asked how much you charge by the hour.

4. Demure necklines. Keep necklines discreetly high tide, go for boat necklines that graze the collarbone, portrait shapes framing the shoulder or entirely covered up sheerness. Stay away from necklines that plunge dangerously southward to reveal an overflowing barmaids’ bosom. It reeks of a Penthouse Pet photo shoot in a German beer hall.

5. Softly, softly. Choose a lace that is soft and drapey rather than stiff and scratchy. The end result will have you looking far more expensive. And you won’t itch [see Penthouse shoot].

6. Colour me happy. Lace looks amazing in hot palettes of chilli reds, raspberry, tangerine and purple berry tones. Steer away from electric blues the shade of a swimming pool tile and wear yellow lace only if your skin is very olive or tanned.

7. Bold is best. Look for laces boasting large format motifs, with a good amount of sheer netting between the shapes for maximum contrast and definition. Stay away from tiny delicate motifs that won’t register as anything other than fussy.

8. Simply styled. DON’T do a black shoe with a coloured lace dress EVER. Colour block with a shoe, handbag or necklace in another bright shade, or go for a nude or metallic option. Keep jewellery simple, bold and minimal. Casually tousled hair; and clean polished make up with a strongly coloured lip is totally on trend.

So amp up the ladylike, enjoy the playful freshness of coloured lace this summer and lock away Susan’s rah-rah skirts and fingerless gloves for good. We desperately don’t want to find them.

Alex. X

Image Credit: Zimbio

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Alex Perry On How To Wear Volume

Super User — Sun, 09 Oct 2011 13:13:00 GMT

By Alex Perry
www.alexperry.com.au

On the concept of “more is more” I am right at home. As the designer whom probably cuts more meterage of fabric than any other in Australia, I wholeheartedly endorse outfits generously cut with yards of soft flowing silk.

And the good news is - anyone can wear volume! A voluminous outfit has many merits, mainly involving concealing a multitude of figure flaws ... heavy thighs, wide hips, saddlebags, pear shaped or saggy tushes, cellulite, knobbly knees, wobbly arms and the general results of cupcake over-indulgence.

A loose fluttery summer frock is also the ultimate in luxurious comfort. Yes, I said it – COMFORTABLE!

But just how do you turn up the volume this summer without drowning amidst a sea of fabric?

Follow my tips below to channel glamorous 70’s jet set “It Girl” Marissa Berenson languishing in Marrakech, as opposed to a Burka-clad bulky Michelin man that rolled into a Kibbutz.

1. Consider your height. The key to successfully working this look is proportion. Basically, the taller you are, the more volume you can wear. For those of you that are more vertically challenged, scale down the width of hemlines so you don’t look like a fabric bazaar exploded all over you.

2. WEAR A HEEL. And I have never meant this more than I do now. There is an entire realm of comfy wedges, platforms, espadrilles and sky-high heels to choose from this season. No excuses. Strap a pair on, amp up your height by four inches, and immediately increase your volume-wearing ability.

3. The right volume for your body shape. Literally ANY body type can wear volume. You just need to know your body and choose the appropriate kind of volume to showcase your assets. If you have great legs – go for a micro mini kaftan. If you don’t like your unshapely arms, then look for a puffed or balloon sleeve. Thick waisted? Opt for an empire line maxi dress. Bottom heavy hips or thick thighs need a cinched in waisted maxi skirt or dress.

4. Show a flash of flesh. Break up the large expanse of fabric with thigh high slits at the front for a flash of leg. Alternatively go for a provocative keyhole back, slash the neckline to the cleavage, bare shoulders or arms. But remember to expose ONE bit only. Choose your best bit worth exposing and cover up the bits you don’t like.

5. Go for one area of volume. Choose either a full puffed sleeve OR a full skirt. Unless you are a 6ft tall glamazon about to strut the runway - generally stick to one area of fullness. Any “more” creates an overwhelming amount of fabric that doesn’t translate from runway to the every day. If wearing voluminous separates - team the oversized top with a skinny jean; or a maxi skirt with a nipped in tight top. Let the oversized piece be the hero and pare everything else right back to super fitted. Don’t risk the “super-sized everything” look.

6. Sheerness is next to Goddessli-ness. Look for maxis and kaftans in super sheer fabrics and wear a body hugging slip underneath. This will give a suggestion of your curves - rather than throwing on the equivalent of a car cover, which will only swamp your shape. Be sure to wear appropriate shape wear underneath though – a lace peek-a-boo slip is chic but Nanna’s holey knickers are not!

7. Softly softly. Voluminous pieces should only ever be created in the softest and drapiest of fabrics like chiffon, georgette, voiles, crepe de chine and mesh tulle gauze. The fabric should flutter and billow around you gently when you move. If it doesn’t – back away! Avoid thick, bulky inducing fabrics like starched linen, crisp taffetas or heavy dupion.

8. Bright block colours, bold pattern and prints. Volume works brilliantly with a bold print or splash of vibrant colour – look for this seasons’ hottest shades of cobalt blue, shocking pink, tangy tangerine or sunny yellow. Bold geometric prints also work well, just beware the size of the print and the proportion of volume is flattering for your height.

Now you can banish the frumpy tent-wearing blob, and confidently crank up the volume to reach maximum glamour this summer.

See you all in Marrakesh...

Alex. X

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Alex Perry On How To Wear Futuristic Fabrics And Fashion Forward Shapes

Super User — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 14:14:00 GMT

By Alex Perry
www.alexperry.com.au

Bamboozled by futuristic fabrics and fashion forward shapes? Fear of falling into a Black Hole on planet Fashion Victim? Worried about coming off looking like Ziggy Stardust stepped out of a Lost in Space episode?

Allow me to propel you at warp speed to a galaxy not so far far away, where celestial chic uber-beings are swathed sublimely in gorgeously shimmering silks, and super sexy Barbarella inspired goddesses roam freely. And the cyber Michelin Man has crash landed on Planet Bulky for all eternity.

Follow my tips below to look out of this world fabulous in this season’s fashion forward shapes and futuristic fabrics.

We come in peace (and glamour).

As a 60’s child, I confess to having a fascination with all things futuristic. However this look can go horribly wrong – ground control to Major Tom. Beam me up from bad 80s lame harem pants, overwrought clumsy Thriller jackets and cyber space creature couture.

1. The trick is NOT to dress head to toe in futuristic shapes and fabrics. Steer away from the “armoured fem-bot fetale from a Kylie film clip” look. Pick ONE exaggerated fashion-forward piece and let it shine its own unique star light.

2. Futuristic Fabrics such as hard edged leathers, latex and waxed fabric need to be offset against soft luxurious cashmere knits and sheer delicate silks for optimum off-the-planet chic. Metallics, like any fabric with liquid sheen - work best when allied with tonal peacemakers grey, beige, white or black. Choose the simplest shapes to showcase futuristic fabrics to their best potential, or risk looking like an alien creature battling a supersonic explosion of foiled fabric.

3. Exaggerated shapes: Aim for the quadrant of sculptured silhouettes with clean minimalist lines that are deceptively simple. Scan your fashion radar for clever cut-outs, tiny cinched in waists, full tulip skirts, pointed exaggerated shoulders, cocoon “pod” shaped lightweight coats and bold monochromatic looks with a pop of colour or geometric prints.

4. The Jacket: Think slightly military detailing, add the metal studs of a rock chic, nipped in waistlines and moulded shoulders of edgy motorbike cool. It’s kind of a refined version of the Thriller-meets-Bladerunner jacket in super soft kid leather. The tailored shape will flatter any figure type and nip in any waist. Wear it in metallic leather and you are off the planet molten HOT. Throw it over a pretty, draped rouched dress in sheer flirty fabric for maximum asteroid impact.

5. The Pant: You essentially need to have android whippet thin pin legs to carry off a metallic leather pant, or risk a “Snookie flies to the moon” moment. Team shiny, slick pants sprayed on tight, with a delicate loose sheer singlet top made from the softest knit or georgette for the ultimate in super sleek “Tron” glamour.

So now your course is set for a glamorous future this summer. Let The Force guide you towards all manner of fashion-forward fabulousness.

Alex
X

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Alex Perry Tells Us How To Choose The Perfect Dress For Spring

Super User — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 14:14:00 GMT

By Alex Perry
www.alexperry.com.au

Ahhhh ... spring has sprung!! And with it, a burst of fabulous new frocks are blooming in boutiques all over the country. Shopping new season's looks is always exciting, however spring is my all time favourite. With the fresh promise of warm lazy summer days ahead and a renewed zing in our step, we can abandon our dreary winter layers and take delight in fun new silhouettes, bright colours and dreamy fabrics.

So just how do you shed your Winter Snuggie and make the leap - elegantly – into sleek summer chic? How do you navigate through the new season’s crop of trends to find the perfect spring dress? Follow my tips below to become a glorious springtime goddess.

1. Get in the Zone – Before you even step foot into a store, preparation is key. Cast off dull winter skin and exfoliate, wax and bronze until you glow. Blow dry lank hair until it shines and bounces. Pop on a stiletto heel and a bright printed dress. Now you won't feel like a pale, bloated yeti as you tiptoe through the springtime tulip dresses.

2. Stick to your body shape rules – make sure the trend works with your body shape. There’s no point being distracted by a fabulous new frock if it just makes you look like a gussied up gonk with a thick waist.

Here are some simple tricks:
Pear shaped: Look for maxi dresses and long billowing skirts. Clever colour blocking will distract from the hips and thighs. Balance out narrow shoulders with a cap sleeve.
Thick waisted: Colour block in a darker shade to instantly shrink a thick waist.
Top heavy: Stay away from halter necks; instead opt for low plunging necklines with a sheer sleeve and balance hips with a full skirt.
Heavy frame: A bold print will shrink a heavier frame in a flash.
Petite or vertically challenged: Overly full maxis will swamp your frame, so be careful to choose less voluminous full skirts. Long dresses will elongate, as will very short skirts, but stay away from below the knee lengths.
Long torso and short legs: Colour block from under the bust to give a long legged illusion.
Boyish figure: Add some feminine curves with a cinched waist, tulip skirt and halter neck.

3. Get Fitted – you should always have your new wardrobe pieces tailored to fit your body proportions like a glove. An inch shorter on the skirt, or nipped in at the waist a pinch, can mean the difference between a wilting lily and perky peony.

Spring Key Dress Trends To Invest In Now:

Colour Blocking
Bright bold colours are SO hot right now. If you only purchase one item this season, make it a bold colour like spicy red, tangy orange, sunny yellow, shocking fuchsia pink or vibrant cobalt blue. Look for dresses that feature a few blocks of colour together – think about the proportion of where the colours change though and ensure it’s flattering to your figure. There’s no point accentuating a thick waist with a wide horizontal band of blazing colour that screams “look at how many cupcakes my waist consumed this winter”. Remember that bright colours pop brilliantly against white or beige, black or dark denim so you can mix it in with some existing wardrobe pieces too.

Sophisticated glamour of the 1970’s Jet set
Forget Vintage Boho and Hippie Chic entirely, we are talking about seriously luxe ultra chic glamour. Look for sheer wafting chiffon long skirts, halter necks, fluid slinky jerseys that skim the body and gentle glistening metallic threads for evening. Calm and quiet colour palettes such as platinum dove grey, beige rose and almond cream. Take cool inspiration from chic 70’s style icons Bianca Jagger, Halston and Lauren Hutton.

Prints
Bold flower prints are blooming everywhere this spring! Pretty pastel floral micro-prints are reminiscent of a sweet and delicate English cottage garden – and look great teamed with rough faded denim. Botanical beauties in super sized large format take on an abstract form in more structured silhouettes. Asiatic florals and oriental blooms make for bold statement pieces in billowing maxi-dresses. All manner of classic stripes and polka dots are still with us, and go for wildly coloured animal prints.

The Sheer Maxi Dress
The new incarnation of this modern wardrobe staple has evolved into a sheer sea of flowing chiffon this spring. Show a little leg in versions that have splits at the front. Be sure to remember your good knickers though.

Loungerie
The luxe chic combination of swimwear, lingerie and loungewear gives us spring’s new fashion euphemism “Loungerie”. It’s the new take on “underwear as outerwear”. Think lacy camisole slip dresses worn under a tough leather biker jacket; tailored maillots worn under sheer maxi-dresses; and corset style stretch tanks worn beneath lace tunics.

Lace
This is a trend that has carried over from recent seasons and isn’t going away soon. This spring, look for bold, chunky, textural lace reminiscent of macramé, crochet and broderie anglaise. Opt for dresses made entirely of lace and you’re on a winner.

All White Hot
A top to toe white look is always gorgeously crisp and perfect for summer, and by summer I mean buy it now and stash it until temperatures soar. Rather than risk a “Perkins Paste” white wobbly arm that reaches for a cardigan to hide goose bumps as a fresh breeze pops up, think sun-kissed golden tanned limbs languishing with a cocktail in the sizzling afternoon sun.

And with weather as gorgeous as we’re currently having, why wait any longer? Banish that Snuggie and come up smelling like roses this Spring!

Alex
X

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Alex Perry Tells Us How To Channel Lady Gaga And Dress Uniquely

Super User — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 14:14:00 GMT

By Alex Perry
www.alexperry.com.au

Lady Gaga has certainly made an unforgettable impression on our media, music and fashion consciousness. She doesn’t merely reinvent her look with each album like other artists; rather she pushes fashion to its absolute boundaries (and sometimes beyond!) with every single appearance, making each Gaga sighting a “show” and spectacle in itself. She has single-handedly thrust Haute Couture and wearable performance art into our mainstream faces. Some of her choices are questionable, even to a fashion savvy couturier, however they are never dull and always keep us talking, thinking and guessing. Fashion is foremost about fun, and expressing your personality, especially if yours is a little offbeat.

So how can you “Monsters” embrace your own “Baby I was Born this Way” individual style, without going to the extreme of donning a silly, not to mention a bit smelly, pork chop on your head? Follow my tips below so that you too can look uniquely individual, yet amazing...

1. Know your passions and quirks, embrace them and celebrate them. If you have a thing for 1950’s retro rockabilly, then Op Shop for swing skirts with cinched waists, shirts tied under the bust and quiffed hairstyles. If Audrey Hepburn is your fashion idol, then gravitate towards boat necklines, sophisticated tailoring, kitten heels and a flick of liquid eyeliner. If it’s an era you love, like the 70’s, then research it well. Explore all aspects of the look, not just the clothes themselves. Consider the hair, makeup, shoes, handbags, colours, prints, dress lengths, pant hem width, headwear and jewellery.
2. Keep some anchor in reality. Draw inspiration from your favourite icon, era or theme, “borrow” from them but keep the look relevant by incorporating some “now” pieces and current styling to keep the look in a modern context. If you simply copy the look, you could wind up as a sad parody, or an extra from an ABBA tribute act.
3. Don’t get too lost in the “art” of fashion to the point where you forget the rules for dressing your frame. Know your body type and always dress to flatter it – stick to the body shape rules. There’s no point shimmying into a Mary Quant micro mini with a 1960’s Beatniks feel if your heavy thighs are more won-ton than waif-like.
4. Just as with cooking where certain food flavour combinations just “work”, it’s the same with certain colour combos in fashion. A bold and strong colour combination will always deliver a bold and strong look. Try perennial favourites black, white and red, fuchsia with tangerine, acid lime with navy or aqua blue. They have been tried and tested for decades, and they work.
5. Exaggerate proportions. Over-scaled details can be eye catching and emphasize your fashion point of view. Remember the overblown flowers Carrie became known for wearing in SITC? The white gold edged one she wore in the opening scene of the movie was ridiculously ENORMOUS. The exaggerated motif really reminded us that this was her “thing” and she was committed to it.
6. Find a signature motif, colour or item that tells people what you are all about, make them remember you by and then stick to it. Uber stylist to the stars, Rachel Zoe’s signature look always includes at least one oversized cocktail ring and huge Jackie O style sunglasses. These motifs reinforce her Boho Chic look and she “owns” it. I have a friend who only wears red, black and white, and the result gives off a really strong sense of personal style and conviction (plus it makes shopping more streamlined!)
7. Accessories are the simplest way to inject some personality into an otherwise chain-store look. Scour thrift stores, markets and out of the way boutiques for special and unique brooches, cocktail rings, hand-made jewellery, hand printed scarves, bespoke millinery hats, one-off samples and limited edition pieces. Unique accessories can reinvent, brighten, lift and transcend an ordinary business suit, classic white shirt, LBD or trench coat to an entirely different stratosphere - one only inhabited by YOU.
8. Unique doesn’t mean weird, strange or scary, or even worse, ugly. Should you need to indulge your avant-garde tendencies, be sure to do so with wit and style. Don’t be weird for weird’s sake or you will come off just…. Weird, and looking like a ghoul on its way to a Halloween party - mothers will shepherd small children from your path, shielding their eyes for fear of inducing nightmares. Beware of the fancy dress realm – channel the high glamour theatre of Haute Couture instead.
9. Wear your look with confidence and attitude and embody the persona. Own it ,work it, strut it. Be sure that the clothes don't wear you - YOU wear the clothes. Be definite as there’s no room here for fence sitters. Commit and go all the way.

Now that you are Gaga for tackling the stylishly unique, enjoy this Fine Romance and let your flights of fancy run wild with glamorous abandon. [Gaga] ooh la la ...

Alex
X

Image Credit: Zimbio (Lady Gaga out in Sydney, Australia)

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Alex Perry Tells Us How To Wear Sheer

Super User — Sun, 19 Jun 2011 14:14:00 GMT

By Alex Perry
www.alexperry.com.au

To show off, or not to show off? And if so, how MUCH of it to show off? And HOW do you reveal almost all with class, style and sophistication?

The decision to flash the flesh is always fraught with controversy. Which is why so many celebrities have built careers [or reinvigorated stalling ones] by dressing provocatively. Why? Because it works [duh]! Take Candice Boucher recently at the Cannes "Hearat Shalayim" premiere – I have no idea who she is or what the film is about, yet her appearance in next to nothing on the red carpet got our tongues wagging – whether they be drooling or tut-tutting.

It all started when Marilyn Monroe famously sang “Happy Birthday Mr. President” in almost her birthday suit – a sheer film of nude colored mesh with clusters of shimmering diamantes covering her privates was all that stood between the bombshell’s celebrated curves and conservative 1960’s America. The effect was sensational and a new breed of cheeky attention grabbing glamour was born. Liz Hurley jettisoned into our consciousness in 1994 on the arm of then beau Hugh Grant in THAT Versace dress – basically a slip of stretchy black fabric held together by a few strategically placed safety pins, leaving little to the imagination. Burlesque beauty Dita von Teese regularly flaunts her wares on stage and on the red carpet in the most suggestively discreet and chic way.

But for each newly born celebrity that can claim successful infamy after a dressing “down”, there is a larger number of Hollywood tragics who get it diabolically wrong, forever remaining on the “worst dressed” lists.

So just how do you carry off a barely there gown without looking cheap, tawdry and not wishing you could “Turn Back Time” like Cher in her 1989 film clip? Follow my guide below to avoid looking like a “Dancing with the Stars” escapee …

Warning: this is dangerous territory and NOT for the faint hearted. There are few occasions outside of the red carpet where gratuitous flesh flashing is appropriate and applauded. Proceed delicately and with extreme caution.

1. The most important rule when wearing a see through dress is obvious. You MUST have a KNOCKOUT body. And I mean KILLER. No Courtney Love wobbly bits, lumps, bumps, bulges or sagging anything. We only want to see toned lithe limbs and svelte curves. If you can’t bounce a 20 cent piece off it – don’t show it.

2. Know your best assets and be selective. Choose wisely what to flaunt, and what to cover up. The areas generally deemed too rude or just not that attractive are the “council workers crack”, the crease of buttock cheek and side of breast, the armpit crease, groin and navel.

3. Choose ONE piece of skin to bare, not everything at the same time. If you flash a lot of leg with a slash to the wahzoo, be careful to cover up everything else. When going for a deep cleavage plunging neckline, counteract with a long sleeve and ankle grazing hem. If wearing a dangerously low cut backless number – cover up the décolletage in front. This approach will deliver a more demure brand of sexiness, rather than the tacky “take-your-clothes-off-it’s-Spring Break” on YouTube kind. It’s about suggesting rather than overtly flashing it all.

4. The “nude illusion” is most effective and intoxicating when the entire body is covered in a sheer film of mesh and embellished with strategically placed jewels, tendrils of lace or swirled detailing. Choose nude, buff and flesh tones or sheer black over bare skin. The idea is to subtly HINT at what lies beneath and leave something to the imagination. If you blatantly show everything, you run the risk of being mistaken for a Lady Gaga imitator searching for her stage, or worse – a porn star.

5. Banish tacky “showgirl” trims like feather boas, fringing, tassels and too-shiny sequins to a land far, far away! These belong in the theatre or sleazy strip club. Keep detailing chic with shimmering icy crystal, hand loomed lace motifs or delicate tulle ruffles.

6. Regal poise and grace will save this look from coming off too Katie Price aka Jordan, page 3 girl. Dita and Liz manage to pull this look off successfully because they are LADIES. Whilst these frocks often require no knickers – you never see them flashing their “lady bits” a la Britney or Lindsay. Ladies keep themselves nice and blush regularly, despite keeping us guessing with a wink that says “I know, it’s a bit of a naughty frock, but I’m really a nice girl. Or maybe I’m not … ”

7. When wearing a potentially “dirty” dress – CLEAN styling and grooming is essential to keep your look from falling into the gutter like Li-Lo. Keep makeup fresh, doe-eyed and 1950s movie star classic. Hair should be sleek, polished, swept subtly off your face and with a slight bendy wave. Keep jewellery to a minimum. Underplay everything else because the dress will be screaming for enough attention.

8. If you’ve come this far, the only mistake you can make now is to insipidly dribble onto the red carpet with the apologetic aura of a shy librarian. So, last but not least - you need a lethal dose of chutzpah and uber confidence to work this look successfully. Once you have made the decision to bare nearly all, as Tyra says “own it”. Commit to the look, strut, preen and sashay with the confidence of an empowered “Blond Ambition” Madonna.

OK budding starlets, now you are ready to make that carpet blush red and become a superstar. Spangles firmly in the right places, head held high and walk that fabulously fine line between cheeky glamour and overt tartlet.

Expensively yours,

Alex
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1. Alex Perry Tells Us The Dos And Don'ts On How To Wear Bling
2. Alex Perry's Right Royal Bridal Perfection
3. Alex Perry's Top Tips On Easy Glamour

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Alex Perry Tells Us The Dos And Don'ts On How To Wear Bling

Super User — Sat, 28 May 2011 14:14:00 GMT

By Alex Perry
www.alexperry.com.au

Well you all must know by now that I am the King of Bling in Australia. Like a kid to a lolly shop, I am to sparkles. We just gravitate together. Perhaps it’s my ethnic heritage, or maybe it’s some innate magnetic field I was born with. Whatever the reason I adore any kind of Bling, be it sequin, bugle bead, crystal, diamante or pave. I don’t mind whether it’s a restrained lurex thread woven subtly through a cashmere knit, or a full on encrusted evening sheath. If it shimmers, I am all for it.

But beware the human Disco Ball effect. Just how do you keep Bling glamorous without crossing the tacky Brynne Edelsten line? I’m glad you asked my glittery glamoristas, read my Bling Rules below and find the path to Bling enlightenment of the chic kind.

1. Is it Okay to Wear a Blinged-Up Dress During the Day?
Well Kerri-Anne, Brynne and a bevy of Double Bay mavens will all shout “HELL YES – with leopard print on top”. But unless you fit one of these categories [or have a Rachael Zoe degree in fashionista styling] the reality is NO. All-over sparkly frocks worn by day always look cheap, tacky and entirely out of place. Harness your sparkle power when it shimmers sweeter by night light – harsh sunlight only weakens the Bling effect.

2. Is it Okay to Wear a Bling Trimmed Outfit During the Day?
Mercifully, YES this is the loophole around the “No Bling Dress by Day” rule. A subtle matt sequin trim on t-shirt, knit cardigan or denim can add instant glamour. But choose your Bling wisely and make this the focal point. Don’t confuse the eye by adding sparkly accessories as well, or you risk Bling fatigue.

3. How to Wear Glamorous Bling Accessories by Day.
If you dare to wear sparkle during the daytime hours, then accessories are a good way to go. Of course, if your jewels are real, pile them high and wear them anywhere, anytime. If wearing bijoux, beware to only wear one piece at a time - earrings, cuff, cocktail ring, a brooch or necklace – not all together. Diamante clutches and shoes will always scream evening, so avoid them for day at all costs, but a clever oversized tote bag with some well placed Bling is tres chic. Ensure the rest of your outfit is relaxed and casual - denim jeans, jersey or knitwear are the perfect backdrop for a Bling daytime indulgence.

4. Metallic Must Do’s Metallics are Also a Great “Bling by Day” Option.
Again choose one metallic item, be it handbag, jacket, skirt or belt. Monochrome ensembles let metallics shine in their best light, wear gunmetal against dramatic black, or team with charcoal, dove greys or inky navy. Rose gold works with peachy creams, pinky buff or praline toffee shades. Team yellow gold with warm neutrals of beige, camel or champagne toned nudes. Silver goes with almost anything but looks most expensive against vanilla white or jet black. Showcase bronzes with rusty hues of burnt orange, warm molten browns and autumnal golds.

5. How to Accessorise a Bling Dress
There is nothing more glamorous than a fully bejewelled dress for evening. Think JLo at the Grammys or Gwyneth at the Oscars. The trick here is NOT to accessorise. Keep hair sleek and makeup minimal, perhaps with a slight sheen to the brow and cheek bone. Wear no jewelry – ok, maybe one huge cocktail ring – handbag should be a tiny palm sized clutch and simple stiletto neutral pump. Everything else needs to be pared back to let the Bling frock shine centre stage; otherwise you could end up looking like a glitzy Griswold’s Christmas Tree.

6. Makeup All a Glimmer
Don’t shy away from shimmer, just don’t overdo it. Subtlety is the key to pulling off makeup that Blings. Highlight cheekbones with lustrous luminiser and set skin aglow with body sheens and light bronzers. Go for shaded eyes in soft glittered charcoals, greys and silvers; or powdery metallic golds, chocolaty browns and cognac hues. Nails showcase the new matt finish metallics of gold, rose gold, platinum, bronze and titanium. The general rule here is, the more Bling you are wearing in your outfit, the softer reflection of Bling in your makeup.

Ok, now that you are not so blinded by the Bling light, enjoy your moment bathing in the expensive glamour of chic sparkle. And pass on the Bling Rules to Brynne if you see her.

Alex

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Image Credit: Snapper Media

Alex Perry And Napoleon Perdis Talk Kate Middleton And The Royal Wedding

Super User — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 14:14:00 GMT

Alex Perry's Right Royal Bridal Perfection

Super User — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 14:14:00 GMT

By Alex Perry
www.alexperry.com.au

As Catherine Middleton prepares to walk the Abbey aisle in a matter of days, the rest of us eagerly await what will be one of the greatest shows of our lifetime. We all love a wedding. And we especially love a fairytale. With all the pomp and ceremony that the Brits do so well, and enough hoopla to make any gals eyes glisten with Princess Bridal fever; a Royal Wedding is nothing short of Bridal Utopia. And the gown Kate chooses to wear on her ‘Big Day’ will undoubtedly set Bridal trends for the next decade.

As a Bridal Couturier, I hope it’s a jolly good one!

Kate has a plethora of incredible experts and resources at her disposal, so it should be pretty hard for her to disappoint.

“But what about the rest of us Princesses?” I hear you cry! How can you achieve your very own Princess Bride Perfection? What should you wear on your Big Day, and how do you go about choosing the most glamorous Princess Bridal gown without it becoming a right royal pain?

You’ve asked the right man. I have been making Brides look and feel fabulous beyond their wildest expectations for the past 18 years. And Princesses are my specialty! I have dressed all manner of Princesses, from all walks of life, and created all sorts of gowns for Princesses on their big day.

Here are the 11 key trends every girl needs to know to ensure Princess Bride Perfection…

1. Princesses Wear Big Frocks.

I am a firm believer that a 'big' wedding calls for an even bigger gown. I’m a sucker for a big frock. Size matters. Nothing says drama to me like a full skirted bon-bon confection of royal gala proportions cascading down the aisle. Royal splendour.

2. Princesses Get Corseted [and don’t complain].

There’s nothing like a cinched in waistline to take the breath away and give a Princess a giddy bridal rush! If you feel comfortable then it’s not tight enough [you think I’m kidding, but I’m so not!]. A good corseted gown will shrink 2 inches off your waistline and instantly improve your posture to a regal standard.

3. Princesses Wear Demure Necklines That Flatter Their Shape.

A suggested swell of cleavage is much more Princess-like than the whole enchilada thrust forth on a plate. Have a good look in the mirror and analyse your torso shape to choose the most flattering neckline shape for you ... voluptuous busts or broad shoulders are minimised with a V-Neckline and diagonal lines. Square up sloping shoulders with a wide cut Portrait Neckline and tailored sleeves. Thick set arms can be disguised with a sheer or lace sleeve. A long neck and creamy décolletage is best showcased by an off-the-shoulder or sweetheart shape. A small bustline can be enhanced by a straight-across neckline, adding oomph with pleating or ruffles.

4. Princesses Choose Glamorous Fabrics And Textured Detailing.

The luxurious sheen of duchesse silk satins, light frothy explosions of delicate tulle, tiered skirts of sheer organza ruffles and super fine layers of frills. Feminine draped ruching and pleating in gossamer georgette and waves of circular cut silk gazar.

5. Princesses Love The Timeless Romance Of Lace ...

And there has never been such a wide variety to choose from.

Go for a fine, delicate and sheer embroidery with a generous border scallop; either finely worked with beads and sequins, or more heavily encrusted; either moulded all over the gown, or hand appliquéd around feature areas such as necklines or hemlines. For an opulent Princess moment, trim veil edges with border lace.

6. Princesses Know Pretty Embellishments.

Adorn aplenty with hand loomed lace appliqué, shimmering fine crystal work, delicate ribbon detailing, bespoke crafted bows or expertly tied sashes, clasped with overblown silk roses, camellias or gardenias.

7. Princesses Wear Tiaras.

What Princess’s big day is complete without a Tiara? Duh. Again, size counts. If you’re going to do it – THEN DO IT! Don’t dribble in with an apologetic speck on your head that could be mistaken for a tiny piece of glitter fallen from an insignificant disco ball. Take inspiration from the royal archives and bask in your Princess moment with a gilded glittering crown.

8. Princesses Wear Fabulous Veils.

A Princess Bride somehow looks nude without her crowning glory, and I always feel a bit jipped when a Bride makes her entrance without one. I love the drama of a veil that cascades on forever down a long aisle ... go for a circular cut style, slightly gathered from the crown of the head, with a long train and blusher [that’s the bit that covers the face] that tips your flowers. Ornate veils can be really gorgeous, and a full lush haze of pristine tulle always delivers 'Princess' in my books.

9. Diamonds Are A Princesses Best Friend.

Something borrowed? Jewels of course. Beg or borrow [Princesses don’t steal] a couple of carats for each ear - diamond studs or drop earrings are a Princess Bride’s Big Day 'must have' accessory. Don’t over clutter bijoux jewels and leave décolletage bare ... unless of course it’s a super fabulous statement piece or family heirloom. Then, by all means - raid the vault and pile it high!

10. Princesses Wear High Heels And Don’t Care About The Pain.

Find the highest [and alright – the most comfortable, It’s a long day] shoe you can manage. If you are on the vertically challenged side, go for a platform. Brides often worry about being taller than their Groom, but Princesses do not ... whatever you do, just don’t change into slippers at the reception. It’s not in the Princess protocol handbook.

11. Princesses Have Glamorous Hair And Makeup.

Go for a chic 'up do', like a low chignon twist or a sleek high full bun. Think modern red carpet royalty J-Lo; rather than Princess Anne’s bouffant French Rolls of olde. Dewy Princess faces glow with a dusting of luminescent shimmer, shaded eyes are framed by a flutter of false lashes, and finished with a glossy rosebud lip. Oh, and don’t forget the waterproof.

I’m sure Kate has this all down pat by now, and I for one am praying to the frock gods that she gets it right on the biggest of all big days.

At least I know you will!

Alex

X

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Image Credit: Fame Images

Alex Perry's Top Tips On Easy Glamour

Super User — Sun, 10 Apr 2011 14:14:00 GMT

Easy glamour ... Does it mean picture perfect? How can we achieve a laid-back glamour that doesn’t require too much fuss? For work. For dinner. For dinner out.

Now, what I’m about to say may shock you.

I usually profess that glamour takes hard work, time and dedication. And that particular “va-voom” brand of high voltage glamour IS hard work. That’s why sometimes we all need a day off and glamour needs to be, well ... EASY.

Whilst we all ache for picture perfect glamour, sometimes it’s just not always that (ahem) ... practical. There are moments in life when we don’t have the time or inclination to spend hours perfecting a high maintenance look.

Armani is the undisputed King of laid back glamour, and like all Masters - he makes it look easy. But it’s not. Achieving relaxed glamour without much fuss is an art form. But don’t fret my Glamor-istas ... here is my Easy “How To” on Easy Glamour ... for work, the weekend and for dinner out.

Think like a fabulous wealthy countess with a devil may care attitude. Luxuriate, recline and relax ... let me do all the glamour work.

The Easy on Easy Glamour...

· Select classic pieces that are well cut, made from quality fabrics, aren't too tricky or trying too hard.
· Keep colour palette neutral, or Black and White. Tone on tone works brilliantly to evoke a sense of calm, control and effortless grace. Think subtle shades of bisque, beige and almond; stone, greige and slate. Ditch the jarring colour and wild crazy prints that scream “trying too hard”.
· Ensure a relaxed, easy fit. Nothing should be too tight, clingy or restrictive. Silhouettes should be body skimming, rather than full body brace. Save the corset and Spanx for red carpet moments. Comfort (there - I said it!) is the key.
· Go for tactile fabrics that feel soft, silky and luxurious. Super fine wool knits that caress, lustrous satiny trims, soft peachy satins, ethereal georgettes that flutter. Above all, Jersey is your cosy and comfy best friend on the road to Easy Glamour.
· Keep accessories bold, uncluttered and unique. Wear one piece of jewellery but make it fabulous. Organic forms in natural materials won't jolt. Steer away from bling – this is the ONLY time you will hear me say this. This is also the ONLY time EVER you can be excused from wearing a heel [although a tiny kitten heel would be great if you can manage it, thank you]
· Good grooming will save you from looking like an unkept bag lady. Remove polish if it's chipped, dry hair naturally and finish with a styling product to keep away the frizzies, keep makeup minimal with a heavy mascara and lick of lip-gloss. A light dusting of bronzed will perk up a dull complexion and give your skin a glamorous glow.

For Work

The classics will sort it out – enter the White Shirt and Tailored Black Trouser. The key to keeping this look laid back rather than stitched up, is the fabrication. Steer away from crisp and sculpted; instead think soft and draped - a tailored wide leg slouch pant made from the finest wool faille falls effortlessly over the leg. Pair with a white crepe-de-chine blouse that folds like liquid and gently buttons low, framing a bold pendant. Tie hair loosely in a low side pony finished with a ribbon. Ballet flats and a large sized shopper handbag complete a cool and breezy day at work.

For The Weekend

It's hard not to look scruffy whilst relaxing, but at some stage you will need to climb out of your PJs. Your favourite weekend “boyfriend” jeans should be a medium wash, flatter your bum and above all - be comfy. Or if you really can’t cope, Audrey Hepburn black leggings are a must. Wear them with suede ballet flats and ease into the ultimate glamour t-shirt made from luxurious silk jersey. Wrap yourself up in the timeless love of a long super fine knitted cashmere cardigan. Accessorise with a long skinny scarf, oversized sunglasses and newspaper-boy cap to add instant and effortless chic. Your cafe latte awaits.

For Dinner Out

This is not the time to drag out the sequinned fishtail gown. Lean back and enjoy a French Martini in decadent comfort, and make room to eat like a Queen. Team a fine silk satin harem pant with a lusciously loose tabard top, then drape a delicately embroidered evening wrap with long silky fringing over one shoulder. Add an armful of chunky resin bangles, tousle carefree bed hair, tuck a sleek envelope clutch under one arm and slip your tootsies into deluxe jewelled slippers. See – easy!

Ahhhh so we can all breathe a contented sigh of relief, and undo our top buttons. Easy glamour made easy, Perry style.

And not one single corset or stiletto in sight... chillax and enjoy.

Alex
X

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1. Alex Perry LMFF March 2011
2. LMFF: Interview With Alex Perry Following Last Night's Runway
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Alex Perry LMFF March 2011

Super User — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 13:13:00 GMT

LMFF: Interview With Alex Perry Following Last Night's Runway

Super User — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 13:13:00 GMT

RESCU's resident fashion glamour advisor Alex Perry took his world-renowned design skills to the L'Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival runway last night. We sat down with the talented man himself to talk inspiration, collaborations and celebrity muses...

RESCU: Who is the Perry Princess for this collection?
Alex Perry: This Spring, Perry Girls jet set to Latin America for Cuban Princess.

RESCU: Tell us more about being selected to do the only stand alone show at LMFF
Alex Perry: This is my first time showing in Melbourne and I have always wanted to do a great big glamorous show here, so I was honoured to be invited.
Melbourne is such a stylish city that embraces fashion wholeheartedly, so I am really excited to introduce them to my vibrant brand of glamour with a special solo show at LMFF.

RESCU: We are loving the vivid fabrics and colour palette of Cuban Princess- What inspired the colours and which are your favorite pieces from the collection?
Alex Perry: This season I was really inspired by the rich colour palette of the Caribbean and Latin America – spicy tones of Tamale Red, Paprika, Blood Orange, Pepper are tempered with cool pools of Curacao Blue.
I love the crisp sharp white suiting that is inspired by men’s tailoring in Havana. There is also a boat neckline cocktail dress in a floral print with sheer insert is one of my favorites, as well as the full length skirts for evening, a modern take on the ball skirt.
Oh, and watch out for the pristine white beaded cocktail dress – its fierce!

RESCU: You are collaborating with two amazing hair and makeup experts. What was the brief for hair?
Alex Perry: Brad Ngata has created the ultimate super sleek jet set hair, reminiscent of 1970’s Vogue.
Hair is oil slicked straight back, with long thick blunt ponytails.

RESCU: And for Make Up?
Alex Perry: The amazing new L’Oreal colour palette inspired the makeup looks, directed by Rae Morris.
Eyes are smouldering in velvety purple, with gold highlights that are perfect for sultry Havana nights.

RESCU: Who is the celebrity Perry Princess that epitomizes the Cuban Princess collection?
Alex Perry: I think Megan Gale epitomizes Cuban Princess – her curvaceous brunette beauty is arresting, sultry and a little bit cheeky.

RESCU: We hear that Helena Christiansen is to wear Alex Perry on the runway for GQ show- tell us about the dress and the collaboration?Alex Perry: Helena is the ambassador for Spec Savers, a brand I have recently collaborated with so it is kismet that we should work together on the GQ show.
She is a fashion icon and I can’t wait to dress her – she’ll be the Supermodel on the runway wearing the razor sharp suit as well as a fabulous evening gown.

RESCU: If we were to update our wardrobes with one key colour this season what would you suggest and why?
Alex Perry: This Spring, invest in Tamale Red – it’s time to break free of the black and have some fun.

Images courtesy of Zimbio

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3. How To Wear Long Hemlines
4. Alex Perry's Tips On how To Wear Metallics

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Alex Perry's Style Tips For Instant Office Glamour

Super User — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 13:13:00 GMT

By Alex Perry
www.alexperry.com.au

Office glamour. Sounds like a contradiction in terms, huh? Well, forget visions of drab hued spinsters, meekly taking dictation – and think more immaculately groomed boardroom barracuda. No matter what your occupation, you can and should look fabulous and glamorous at work. Fashion isn’t only for nighttime fun, but it can be your secret weapon on the job.

Empower yourself with an ensemble of armour that says “trust me, I’ve got it together and I know what I’m doing” rather than “I’m a slob who can’t be bothered to make an effort with my clothes OR my job”.

Follow my tips below and you will be looking more Mad Men modern chic than daggy librarian geek.

Your office wardrobe staples should embrace your femininity. Choose flattering cuts that accentuate your curves, soft fluid fabrics and bold accessories. Dressing well at work is really about boosting your confidence so you can perform at your absolute best.

DO have on High Rotation ...

A well cut tailored suit: A great suit will always make you feel invincible walking into that big meeting. Practicality dictates you should opt for a classic colour – black, beige, charcoal or navy; and fabric of plain twill, pinstripe or herringbone. Ensure the cut and proportion works for your body type and height. And invest a little extra on quality fabric that drapes and glides - it will flatter your body, launder well and won’t let you down.

Pencil Skirt: Every executive-in-the-making should have one. The ultimate in office chic ... Just make sure it is well fitted but yet with enough movement at the knee.

Soft Silky Blouse: the demure feminine version of the man’s business shirt. It says “I’m in control and don’t have to try too hard”.

High Heel Pumps or Sling-Backs: Make sure your heels are high, but stable enough for all day staying power. You should be able to run in them. The added height will give you a confidence boost when it counts. Carry a pair of ballet flats if you must, to wear around the office. The scene in Devil Wears Prada where the fashion girls leave their “Clackers” under their desk IS a fashion reality. Embrace it.

Trench Coat: ward off Winter weather in style with a modern classic Trench that exudes a powerful mix of mystique and no nonsense practicality.

Jersey Dress: Diane von Furstenberg pioneered this look that has long been a favourite of chic office gals – with good reason. Draped or sculpted, fun prints in comfortable jersey can be dressed up or down for long days on the go.

Accessories are the key to perking up a dull office suit. Have some fun with quirky accessories in bright shades, animal print or graphics in wild colours. This Winter, buy leather gloves, bold scarves, fun hats, piles of necklaces or add some horn-rimmed Specs for a twist. Corporate and Conservative doesn’t have to mean boring.

Grooming: Don’t underestimate the power of good grooming – polish is half the presentation battle won. Now I’m not saying you should wake up at 4am to blow dry and apply false lashes every day ... keep it simple. Hair should always be clean and neat ... if in doubt, running late or humidity– PONYTAIL! Keep nails short and filed square with a lick of clear gloss. If your varnish is chipped – remove it altogether. Keep make-up light and dewy, a flick of eyeliner, lashings of mascara and a slick of lip-gloss. Touch up with powder throughout the day to keep looking fresh. Carry mints to avoid the dreaded coffee breath. Take a toothbrush if it’s going to be a long day, or if you are attending an after-work event. Oh ... and iron your clothes please. No one will entrust a rumpled mess.

Alterations: Go the extra mile and have all your work outfits professionally tailored to fit your body and proportion. A customised fit can make you look like a million dollar success story.

Glamour killers to steer clear of ...

Clunky, chunky orthopaedic looking shoes: Yes, I’ve seen you all scuttling about in the City hoping no one notices that you’ve stolen Forrest Gump’s shoes. Well I did. So give them back. Now.

Cheap suits with ugly boxy skirts and ill-fitting jackets: These look worse than a school uniform. Bin them.

Inappropriate necklines and hemlines: If you can see a bra strap, more than 1cm of cleavage or a hemline higher than 1 ½” above knee – save it for the weekend, unless you’re a receptionist at a brothel - then go for it.

No accessories at all: Accessorising is a learned skill, like typing. Don’t be overwhelmed, practice makes perfect. Think of styling your daily look as “on-the-job training”.

Garish makeup and scary hair: Would you trust someone with your account/ business/ life that looked like a Cyndi Lauper impersonator? Say no more ...

And that, my fashion officianardos, is my crash course on glamming it up at work. Embrace your inner Clacker and go forth to stylishly conquer the boardroom.

Alex

More Alex Perry's blogs for RESCU:

How To Dress For Lunch: Glamour Expert Alex Perry Shares His Top Tips For Looking Chic And Appropriate.

Super User — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 13:13:00 GMT

You’re invited to “Meet for lunch!” Great, but you haven’t a clue how to dress to make the right impression. Knowing what to wear to look chic and sophisticated on a lunchtime ‘date’ is easy if you follow Alex Perry’s expert advice on dressing for the occasion...

Glamour at a lunchtime setting can be challenging. One single sequin and you risk coming off night-clubby, garish and as cheap as a cask of Moselle served at an RSL à la carte buffet. On the other hand ... not enough chutzpah and you could be mistaken for thinking that it’s just another manic Monday. Tricky territory to navigate in (or out of) heels ... so here are my pointers on how to look chic and sophisticated at some lunchtime settings.

A poolside lunch with friends
Whilst your pool probably isn’t located in glamorous Saint Tropez or glitzy Miami ... dress like it is. Think SATC 2 “Bohemian Luxe”... fabulous overblown prints, lots of bold colour and volumes of billowing sheer fabric. Sparkle resort-style in a glamour kaftan, be it micro short or maxi ankle length, draped off one shoulder or bare shoulders, with batwing sleeves or ruffles, frills and flounces. Whatever the frock, do wear it with jewelled kitten heel thongs or stilettos. Frocks should be as dramatic as the gossip, fun as the fillies, cheeky as the cabana boy ... and loose enough around the waist to allow for maximum cocktail consumption.

A romantic lunch at a seaside restaurant
The aim is to sizzle softly without scorching your date. You need a killer “Wiggle Dress” that shows some décolletage and bare tanned arms ... but keep skirt length on the knee. A sprayed on skirt to hug your curves and corseted singlet top to sculpt your assets will do the trick. Go for an innocent neutral colour palette of beige, buff or sweet sorbet pastels. Add a sheer filmy wrap or neck scarf that wafts in the ocean breeze, and peep-toe stiletto shoes ... quicker than you can say “Mad Men meets Marilyn Monroe” he’ll be busting out the oysters, lobster and French champagne.

A wedding lunch
OK, etiquette in full swing here ... Keep yourself “nice”, and don’t ruin the bride’s day by looking like BrynneEdelsten at the Logies. That includes NO black, and NO full length “evening” gowns (as the name suggests, they are not intended for lunchtime). Instead, opt for flirty or draped frocks in perky hues, short puffed tulip skirts in a great floral print, delicate lace singlet dresses, or pretty eyelet corsets worn underneath sheer blouses that evoke Grace Kelly in “High Society”. Drape a cashmere silk cardigan in demure shades of nude or polite pastels over bare shoulders. Pretty as a picture.

And before you sashay out into the sunshine here are some “Perry DO’s and DON’Ts” to guarantee lunchtime pizzazz in any setting:

DO wear fabulous shades. Chic sunglasses are the most important lunchtime accessory. DON’T leave home without them.
DO wear an armful of bangles in gold, silver, bronze or pewter or a brightly coloured enamel or oversized snakeskin cuff. DON’T wear diamantes, sequins or any other bling.
DO wear a high heel for instant glamour appeal, in a bright pop colour, quirky print or with fun embellishments. DON’T even think about a flat just because “it’s day”.
DO wear your hair out, tousled and “just fell out of bed” relaxed. DON’T wear strict uptight buns or “up do’s”.
DO wear animal print. It’s always chic to purr in the daytime.
DO keep make-up minimal, luminous and 60’s inspired. DON’T do a sooty panda eye or garish red lip.
DO carry a chic shoulder handbag in bright, textured or metallic leather. DON’T clutch an evening purse.
DO wear soft sheer chiffon fabrics. DON’T wear jersey, satin or shiny fabrics; or anything that becomes see-thru in the sunlight.
DON’T wear pants. Under any circumstances.

So there you are, whatever the lunchtime occasion, look good, eat well and enjoy!

Alex
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Image courtesy ask.metafilter.com

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Alex Perry's Top 5 Red Carpet Looks to Suit Every Body Shape

Alex Perry at David Jones Autumn/Winter 2012 Fashion Launch Talks Exclusively to Rescu

Alex Perry's Top Looks from the 2012 Golden Globes

Alex Perry on Summer's Most Glamorous Must-Haves

Alex Perry Tells Us What To Wear To The Office Christmas Party

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Expert Advice to RESCU your life: Style; Beauty; Wealth; Health; Love; Culture and great competitions.

Alex Perry On How To Wear Coloured Lace

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Alex Perry On How To Wear Volume

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Alex Perry On How To Wear Futuristic Fabrics And Fashion Forward Shapes

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Alex Perry Tells Us How To Choose The Perfect Dress For Spring

Spring Key Dress Trends To Invest In Now:

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Alex Perry Tells Us How To Channel Lady Gaga And Dress Uniquely

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Alex Perry Tells Us How To Wear Sheer

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Alex Perry Tells Us The Dos And Don'ts On How To Wear Bling

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Alex Perry And Napoleon Perdis Talk Kate Middleton And The Royal Wedding

Alex Perry's Right Royal Bridal Perfection

1. Princesses Wear Big Frocks.

2. Princesses Get Corseted [and don’t complain].

3. Princesses Wear Demure Necklines That Flatter Their Shape.

4. Princesses Choose Glamorous Fabrics And Textured Detailing.

5. Princesses Love The Timeless Romance Of Lace ...

6. Princesses Know Pretty Embellishments.

7. Princesses Wear Tiaras.

8. Princesses Wear Fabulous Veils.

9. Diamonds Are A Princesses Best Friend.

10. Princesses Wear High Heels And Don’t Care About The Pain.

11. Princesses Have Glamorous Hair And Makeup.

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Alex Perry's Top Tips On Easy Glamour

The Easy on Easy Glamour...

Alex Perry Blogs...

Alex Perry LMFF March 2011

LMFF: Interview With Alex Perry Following Last Night's Runway

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Alex Perry's Style Tips For Instant Office Glamour

DO have on High Rotation ...

Glamour killers to steer clear of ...

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How To Dress For Lunch: Glamour Expert Alex Perry Shares His Top Tips For Looking Chic And Appropriate.

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