eXpress yourself

My uncle is a photographer, and as I was recently out in Ohio for holiday, Nicole and I ventured to his studio. We had such a fabulous time dressing up, taking great shots and simply having fun being ourselves.

I am no model, although I have been addicted to America's Next Top Model since the first season it aired. However, I feel like there are some general things I could recommend. (advice coming from Tyra, my uncle and general techniques noticed through years of magazine flipping)

1. Work your eyes: It is important to pierce the lens. You don't want to look half-asleep.
2. Try to look natural: It is not necessary to over-pout your lips or things along these lines. You are beautiful without making a 'plastic surgery face.'
3. Posture: Watch your posture. Of course for some high fashion shots, a deconstructed look is very appropriate, but usually this is something that should be kept in mind.
4. Preparation: Get a good nights sleep. This is something that we should do for our health, let alone attempting model status in photos.
5. Mix it up: Smile. Serious. Look Away. Pierce the Lens. Do Something Weird. Be Symmetrical. Play With Your Hair. Laugh. (you get the point).
6. Let there be light: Know where the light is. You will want to expose at least a portion of your face to this source. This goes for a studio session or frolicking outside. Know where the light is!
7. Have fun: Please, don't take yourself too seriously.

xx

Courtesy of Mark Poulton

Nicole and I- Courtesy of Mark Poulton

Original Picture

BEE Ladylike

Ah, although some days lead to disappointment, there have been a few ideal days of spring scents, sunshine and buds on newly enlivened trees. I can't wait to wear skirts without tights, tanks without a layered sweater and sunglasses every moment.

My mom and me at Cabaret Night- original photo

A fashion trend found on spring runways from Victoria Beckham to Tibi to Jason Wu was the ladylike ensembles of yesteryear. These looks were quasi-retro and beyond feminine (think ruffles, full-skirts, etc). I myself excited to bring back a look that, in my eyes, never goes out of style.

Last weekend I attended the Hershey Area Playhouse's annual Cabaret Night. An event put together by three amazing people, one including my mother, raises funds for the non-profit to function. Held at the Hershey Country Club, the ritziest of the ritz attend.

I sported an H&M dress of a lovely orange (not my typical choice in palate). But, it was ladylike. Unlike some women of the evening, I did not want to expose too much figure or skin. The dress, layered with ruffles, was just the silhouette I wanted.

Cabaret Night- original photo

This brings me to another minor notion: dress for your age. This is a look that can surpass all ages. However, the ultra-formfitting ensembles are much more risky to pull off.

Nonetheless, it was a lovely evening, and I felt endlessly confident in my new spring get-up. Ladies take notes and be ladies.

xx

The Za Za Zoe

I would like to think all my fashion inspiration comes from myself solely. And often times I do find myself with ideas new to me. However, there is a cluster of ladies that contribute to my fashion addiction. There are a few women that I would trust immensely to dress me.

Rachel Zoe, stylist, is one of those people. Although she can be found in celebrity tabloids with an endless host of garbage, I find her love of clothing contagious. She is incredibly knowledgeable on more than just current trends; she is a fashion historian. She is also the stylist for Anne Hathaway, Demi Moore and Kate Beckinsale to name a few.

A receiver of her daily Rachel Zoe Report emails, I read them for all their relevant insider information. Her fashion reports can also be found on her website http://www.rachelzoe.com/. You can browse the site for past reports and sign up for the daily alerts.

Take fashion advice from someone who knows best and feel the style za za zoo with Rachel Zoe.
x

Rachel Zoe