Trèes Chic

You’ve all seen her — she’s 5’10”, weighs 120 pounds, wears only the latest trends, always looks good in them and she catches the eye of everyone.
Sound familiar?
She should, because she’s the mannequin in the window of every store.
Lately I’ve seen this perpetually perfect woman sporting bear-all bandage dresses — I’m pointing my finger at you, Express.
Don’t get me wrong. She looks great in them, but she’s also a size 2.
Not only did I think bandage dresses were a trend that died in 2008, but I don’t know why it was ever a trend in the first place. And more so, why women are buying into it?
It makes sense that the bandage styles I see everywhere would look good on a mannequin, because that’s their job. But for women with booties, C-cups and shapely legs, there is no shame in passing on a style that isn’t flattering.
When going out this fall, opt for the mystique. There is nothing sexier than a woman who doesn’t put it all out there.
I’m talking dark denim and boots with leather jackets and scarves.
When I ditch tight skirts and uncomfortable strapless bras for loose blouses, blazers, bright jewelry and my favorite perfume, I feel so much freer to enjoy my night without having to fuss with my outfit.
My favorite coquette-ish trend I’ve seen lately?
It's the sheer or lace top with a solid-color bra underneath. While this trend may raise eyebrows during the school week, it’s a daring but classy look to wear on a night out, with the best part being that you don’t have to shiver in a strapless dress.
As for accessories, I always recommend the rule that less is more.
Above all patterns, fits, fabrics and trends, the number one rule of fashion has always been to wear what looks good on you, not what looks good on the mannequin.
It’s no secret that the average size of the American woman is not a size 2, so more and more mannequins are becoming an unrealistic representation of women’s bodies.
It’s going to be a long, cold winter, and the only thing less sexy than a woman in unflattering clothing is a cold, uncomfortable and less-than-confident one.
When shopping for new pieces to add to your fall rotation, keep comfort in mind.
And when something doesn’t look right, it’s not you. It’s the clothing.