Has summer finally arrived? Yippee!

The temperatures are rising but ladies like their image to stay light and fresh - not like a wilted flower; men, you want to look cool and buff, not rumpled and sweaty. Here are some foolproof "Beat the Heat" strategies for your wardrobe and beauty regime that will boost your image without costing you a fortune. These tips are simple, quick, and easy.

Wardrobe Strategies

Fabrics:  avoid polyester, rayon, or nylon. They trap heat against your body that causes you to feel hot and sticky. Instead, choose a breezy, light-weight cotton, cotton blend, linen, or wicking fabric when appropriate. With this season's cotton and linen fabrics, wrinkled clothing is an image BUSTER! Your garments must be pressed for a polished, neat, and crisp appearance to "bust" the wilted, melted look of sweat-crinkled clothing.

Hate to iron? Details Plus is a lifestyle management company that provides domestic services such as ironing your clothes! Mention Looking Your Best when you call for more info. Ask for Laura at 780.903.2348

TipTop Tailors offer a service called Supercrease that puts a permanent crease in men and women's trousers. It only costs an amazing $8 per garment. Supercrease stays crisp even when wet. It lasts the life of the garment and is formulated to withstand washing, dry cleaning, and normal wear and tear. This is a must for everyone. Only at TipTop's West Edmonton Mall, Phase I location, mention that Looking Your Best sent you and receive an exclusive 10% discount. Not only does this discount include the Supercrease, but all the merchandise in the store is 10% off by mentioning Looking Your Best. Call TipTop at 780.444.1290 for more information.

Another option?  Dry cleaners will press clothes for 75% of the dry clean price. Consider an eco-friendly cleaner that uses green practices. Visit www.emeraldfoundation.ca for a Hangers Cleaners location near you.

Fit:  Avoid clothes that are too tight or too small - not only will they prevent your skin from breathing and cooling naturally, they will also show every drop of perspiration. Also avoid oversized baggy clothes in the name of comfort. You will look sloppy and wilted. Instead, choose tailored, fitted pieces that will help you look more pulled together while still being able to move freely and easily. Don't be controlled by the number on the tag or garment. Try a size up or a size down because different brands and even different colours will fit differently on your body. Try everything on. No one will know the size you're wearing; only how good it looks on you. Make it a good fit for your best wardrobe boost.

Colour: Avoid head-to-toe dark neutrals. Freshen up by adding a light, neutral bottom like white, cream, or beige pants. Or try a skirt and a lighter, brighter colour on top to give your wardrobe a boost of energy. Keep your colours light, bright, and fresh in the heat. If black is a must, wear it with white for a crisp summer style. Add a pop of colour with a coral necklace, deep sea-blue oversized handbag, or a stack of colourful bracelets that make a statement. Guys, boost your office jacket by ditching your tie and replacing it with a colourful pocket square. Tres chic and au courant. Paisley is very popular or pick up one of the colours in your shirt.

Wardrobe Strategies for Women

• Short shorts are for young girls only. Upgrade your summer wardrobe with knee-length Bermuda or city-length shorts. Try an A-line cotton or linen print skirt to boost your flirty side while still keeping it office worthy. Wear them with a stacked heel rather than a flip flop. Try a polished flat to give your flip flops a break; flip flops may be easy and comfortable, but they are really a casual slipper meant for the beach or the pool.
• Replace teeny-weeny accessories with a statement necklace, big earrings, or a stack of colourful bracelets that stand out.  Wear 2 of these 3 items at one time.
• Cover your bra and straps. Showing your bra under your arms or the straps is in bad taste. Shorten the straps of your tank tops for a quick remedy to this Image Blooper.
• A pretty dress is always a boost for your summer wardrobe. You'll have it for years so choose wisely. Pick a flattering colour - one that covers your bra straps without the use of a pashmina or topper, and with an A-line skirt for a flattering, fluttering fit.
• Replace your black leather handbag for a fresh fruit-coloured bag with interesting hardware. This is one of the least expensive ways to boost a drab wardrobe. Typically, a larger handbag allows for room for your water bottle and a magazine for those spontaneous breaks from the sun at the park under the shade of a tree.

Wardrobe Strategies for Men

• Checkered shorts are too casual for the office, but they deliver tons of style for your leisure and weekend wardrobe. Wear them with a logo T-shirt and canvas flip flop for a southern beach-y relaxed style with a hip vibe.
• Replace chunky thick-soled footwear with fashion sneakers.
• Try a long sleeved patterned shirt for evenings out. Keep it untucked, and wear it with dark denim jeans and flip flops for a fresh take on club wear.
• Stow your leather bomber jacket and replace it with a hoodie.

• Trade your metal band boardroom watch for a large-faced sporty version.
• Aviator shades are always cool.

Summer Wardrobe Plan:  Recession-proof your wardrobe from the comfort of your own closet (in the Edmonton, Alberta metro area). Perhaps you already have the pieces to build the perfect summer wardrobe! Get new mix 'n match ideas, a picture of your remixed wardrobe for inspiration; build 30 outfits from 11 pieces of clothing. Find out strategically what you need to update your wardrobe. Call now...$149.00...book your appointment and receive a free copy of "Company Picnic: What Not to Wear".   Reg. $399 - SALE:  Over 60% off!

 

 

Beauty Strategies for Women

• Lighten up your fragrance; replace heavy musks and spices for citrus and floral-scented lotions.
• Rethink your makeup routine for summer. Heavy liner and bold lips are too harsh when the sun is bright.
• Switch to a waterproof mascara to avoid looking like Alice Cooper when water damage is only a sprinkler away.
• Wear mineral cosmetics for a fresh glow all day and night. Mineral cosmetics are good for your skin.

Looking Your Best is proud to offer Jane Iredale mineral cosmetics and U B U. Available for retail.

See below for info on FREE teleseminar July 18, 2009.

Grooming Strategies for Men

• Smell fresh! Try citrus cologne, scented aftershave lotion or scented hand lotion for a lighter yet pleasing fragrance.
• Use breath mints, breath spray or chew gum discreetly for those cozy conversations.
• Brighten your smile and whiten your teeth. Very attractive on a man!  Try the new Crest Whitestrips or call your dentist for more info. 
• Moisturize your complexion to avoid the leather look.  Try VADA Matte lotion, $31.60 for 60 ml, available from Looking Your Best, 780.451.0661.
• Use a lip balm not only for sunscreen protection but also for moist looking kissable lips. We recommend Jane Iredale, LipDrink, $15 available at Looking Your Best. 780.451.0661.