Vests...a great piece that can be worn year-round!

One of my favorite things to wear is a vest (or as we call them across the pond, waistcoats!).  This item can be worn year round and can be styled in different ways to add flair to your outfit.  The other great thing about wearing a vest is that it can be very slimming!  I'm all about that, so if you're feeling a little self-conscious about your mid-section, wearing a vest is a great way to disguise that area and actually flatter you.  So here are some of my tips with regards to wearing this great and versatile piece of clothing.

Keep in mind...

• Leave it relaxed.  The ideal transition item, it works in any season.  You're going for a casual feel, not a classic menswear vibe, so keep things loose by wearing the vest open.
• Mind the fit.  You should be able to close the vest over your chest, even if you want to wear it unbuttoned.  A long, straight shape that ends mid-derriere will flatter most figures.  If you're curvy, stay away from cropped, shrunken silhouettes.
• Experiment with unconventional fabrics.  Leather looks cool with cigarette jeans.  Or pair a plaid one with a black pencil skirt.
• Another great way to style your vest is to button it up over bare skin and add tailored shorts for an edgy day look.  Or belt your vest on top of a flowy maxi-dress if you've planned a low-key evening out.

The American staple - Denim!

Denim is something that never goes out of fashion, and something I know is somewhat of an American staple!  Americans love their jeans.....but there is so much more you can do with denim than wear a plain old pair of jeans!  But first, if you're going to wear jeans make sure you wear ones that work for your shape.

There are so many to choose from out there that it can be overwhelming at times.  But try on lots of different cuts to see what suits your body type.  For example, if you're what is called a triangle shape, with broad shoulders and a big bust but narrow from the waist down, then skinny jeans will only accentuate that you're bigger on top.  Usually a nice straight leg jean or a boot cut will be best for this shape.  If you're an apple shape or have a bigger mid-section, then wear a higher waisted jean so that you don't get the 'muffin top' effect.  Remember ladies, if you're a little bigger and want a jean to be slimming (and who doesn't want that!), stay away from the light colored jeans!  Stick to dark wash jeans, and PLEASE make sure they're the right length.  Jeans should NOT be above your ankles, but instead be hemmed to practically cover your shoe or boot.  The higher the shoe and longer the jean is hemmed the taller and leaner you will look! 

A big trend for some time now has been the colored jean!  They come in all colors, from reds and pinks to greens and white.  So experiment and wear a bright color, or if like me you are partial to the white jean, try that with a nice navy and white top which is the nautical trend that is big this year too.  Don't be afraid to change up your look, and don't make the mistake that so many women make and be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.  I guarantee you'll feel better if you try something different!

But apart from the classic jean, you can add denim in other ways to your wardrobe and be very on trend!  I recently bought a denim blazer from Old Navy that I love, and I wear it with my dark jeans and wear a pop of colour underneath and a fun scarf and I'm good to go!  Denim skirts, vests, tops and shorts have all made a comeback this year and are a great way to remain casual but fashionable!