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New Year, New You

by on ‎01-01-2010 03:23 PM

I rarely make many New Year's resolutions - at least not in the “typical sense”. Frankly, I find them restrictive and concentrated on things that one wishes to stop or subtract from their life. I prefer to look at a new year as an opportunity to gain knowledge and experience that will help enhance my life and the lives of people around me. Therefore my resolutions are often centered on gaining insight on how to do things smarter, how to feel better and how to look better.


Having spent many years helping other people look better, I've learned some techniques that can be applied to achieve a better appearance and a longer leaner, taller look. I'm happy to share them with you.


Many of you may have heard me say that a “north-south” orientation on a ring (one that is longer from knuckle to fingertip) is slimming for the hand. This is a great trick for those who wish their hands to look longer and more elegant. If this is you, think about rings in this style. For example, J26371, the sterling elongated oval turquoise ring, a great modern look for spring and summer. If you prefer something a little more ornate J139998, the sterling oval decorative border ring in Malachite gives a great fashion look. Either way the longer oval will give your hand a slimmer appearance.


The same affect can be applied to the body. Length of line is the key. Think about J30166, a full 48-inch necklace of multi-gemstone chips. The diversity of color gives you great versatility, and the length will create a long slimming line on the body. The necklace can be doubled for a layered look. For maximum affect when doubled, wear one length very short and one very long. Another piece with great flexibility and a slimming look is J21516, the Affinity Diamond ¼ ct tw vintage inspired wardrobe. These 3-pieces may be worn separately or together in a myriad of combinations. The 36-inch chain will provide you length of line while the 18-inch chain and enhancer will give you plenty of options. For maximum length, wear the enhancer on the longer chain.


Finally, don't forget the face and neck. If you want a longer-looking neck, choose earrings that drop to at least jaw length but no longer than mid-neck. For example, J143972 the sterling and gemstone 1-1/2-inch hoop. Hoops are a go-anywhere earring and never out of fashion. Another more formal option is J207386, Leslie Greene's Sterling ¼ ct tw diamond lace earrings. This style gives you great movement at a length that will create a linear feel.


So if, like me, you wish to make a resolution that's less restrictive and based on gaining something, try these simple “tricks”. Doing things smarter with your wardrobe will make you look very stylish and feel better. That's a great resolution by itself!


Style Tip: To counteract a physical trait apply an opposite to it. For example, a round face or a button nose requires square earrings, straight bangs or square necklines to help offset the feature and keep it all in balance.