Dear Ellbee, I’m a curvy girl and I’m looking for the perfect dress for a holiday party. I’ve tried on a few sheath dresses in hopes of showing off my curves tastefully, but they just make me look like a big blob. Help! Maddie Hi, Maddie. Sounds like you’re looking for a dress that’s both classic and form-fitting. If a sheath isn’t showing off your shape properly, you’ll need something with a more clearly defined waistline. Look {Read More}
Ask Ellbee ~ Long and Lean
Dear Ellbee, I’m 5’3” and looking for ways to appear taller. Obviously, I have the heels thing covered. Any other suggestions? Kelly Hi, Kelly. I’m 6 feet tall. But I still strive to elongate myself through clothing and shoe options. Here’s how I do it: As you mentioned, heels are an instant lift. Keep them streamlined and stay away from thick, heavy, clunky heels. Try a nude shoe, too, as they’ll make legs look even longer. Wear your trousers and {Read More}
Ask Ellbee ~ Red Lipstick
Dear Ellbee, Can you recommend a good red lipstick for me? Lexi Hi, Lexi. There are lots of wonderful reds out on the market. The key is selecting the right complement color for your skin tone ~ and then careful application! Here’s the breakdown: If you have fair skin, you’ll want to shop for reds with blue-based undertones. Good choices include: COVERGIRL LipPerfection in Hot and Maybelline’s Super Stay 24 Color in All Day Cherry. For darker skin or olive {Read More}
Ask Ellbee ~ Fall Wardrobe
Dear Ellbee, I’m looking to jack up my Fall wardrobe, but have limited funds. How can I get the most bang for a hundred and fifty bucks? Suze Hi, Suze. Buy one great pair of black boots. They’ll elevate every look in your closet! Shop for quality leather. Suedes are fine, but will not wear as long as basic tanned hide. You’ll want something substantial, but not too heavy as that could compromise comfort. Keep the style simple. Look for {Read More}
Ask Ellbee ~ Capris
Dear Ellbee, It’s been so freaking hot this summer that I’m trading in the linen pants for capris! What’s the right length for someone who’s 5’2”? Thanks! Celia Hi, Celia. Buy capris that stop just a couple of inches above your ankle, accentuating the slimmest part of your leg. Keep the opening slightly loose — just wide enough to accommodate your leg without being clingy (too tight makes the ankle appear chunky; too loose makes the leg seem scrawny). A {Read More}
Ask Ellbee ~ Bronzers
Dear Ellbee, I’ve tried a few different kinds of bronzers and am not happy with any of them. They all make me look too orange. Can you recommend a brand that will work for me — and my light skin? Kim Hi, Kim. Bronzer can be tricky for people with fair skin. Based on your experience, I’m betting you have pink undertones, too. If so, you’ll need to mix a light-to-medium bronzer (avoid the deeper terra cotta and copper colors) {Read More}
Ask Ellbee ~ Eyeshadow
Dear Ellbee, I do a pretty good job with my makeup, but am intimidated when there are more than two colors in the eyeshadow compact! How do I apply multiple shades? Thanks. Pam Hi, Pam. No need to feel intimidated. In fact, have a little fun! Here’s how: The darkest color will always be used to define the lash line. Think of it as an extension of your eyeliner. Lay down color 1/4 of the way out from the inner {Read More}
