Archive for the ‘Fittings’ Category

Choosing Outfits that suits your Skin Tone & Hair Color

First impression; as the old saying goes… is very important to make. People are undeniably vain whether we admit it or not. Whether applying for a job or attending a typical social gathering, we always feel like dressing up to the max or at least be presentable. It is in our nature that we naturally want to look better, if not good for ourselves but to others as well. Hence the invention of mirror. As the world progress, not only that we are able to see ourselves in mirrors with what we are putting on, but also able to foresee possibilities of new color, design and styles with the new technology. Prior to making decisions on any possible changes, we have a massive wealth of information that we can easily extract not only from literature but also on the internet in this day and age. Though, we have to admit that certain things must be consulted to professionals in person; who specializes in their fields and not just relying on the information that is easily accessible out there especially, when it comes to your image. The reason why you have to see these professionals in person is because of what we call “body chemistry”.

YES! That is Science and this time, we are talking with scientific background issues particularly in Chemistry.

Have you noticed that certain fragrances smells better on certain individuals than others? The reason is because our bodies emit different natural scents according to what we put in it, and when a foreign scent is applied to it; the mixture of the two changes the make up of the original scent. Hence complicating the idea of purchasing it for someone else besides self purchase. This is why you must test fragrances on you before buying it for you!

The same applies to shades of cosmetics. Your skin pigmentation changes the shades of colors when applied to your skin. That is the reason why you must have a make-over done before making any purchases.

Another reason why you should have a color swatching done on you, a service  which is available to our customers here at L’amour Bridal Boutique is because you need to know which color group is mostly complimentary to your skin tone and hair color. You do not want those dark circles around your eyes looking obvious, don’t you? Vain or not vain?A question, worth taking a look at seriously if you are worried enough on how you project yourself out there.

Take a good look at the following pictures below. Lighting and background has not been changed but the color swatches. Do you see the difference?

The top photo with the warmer tones make the skin tone look warmer and the blouse look more ivory than white.

This bottom picture is showing cooler tones making the skin look healthier against the dark hair and the blouse looking whiter than ivory.

If you can’t see the difference,  then you must be color blind. Please consult an eye doctor.

The above issues are very good reasons why you must consult in person and not just read about it.

Previously, L’amour Bridal Boutique has talked about what to expect on fittings knowing the different body silhouettes to make better decisions in choosing the right outfit. This time, we have to consider the different shades of colors in addition to what you already know. When you know the right silhouette and colors to wear, it will not matter whether you are the center of attention or the focal point. You will be noticed!!! There are four (4) major groups of colors and two (2) color tones/intensity to explore and determine which shades of color an individual belongs to. First and foremost, is you need to find out which color tones you belong to. Are you in the Cool Tone or Warm Tone? Next step, is determining which group of colors most compliment your skin/hair color. Is it  SRING, SUMMER, FALL or WINTER? In general, people with artistic, color and design backgrounds are the one’s we need to consult to help us guide in the right direction especially when it comes to projecting the right or certain image. A wardrobe consultant here at L’amour Bridal Boutique and a make-up artist are the most accessible and inexpensive professionals to consult with rather than seeing an image consultant who would normally charge you by the hour.

As a consumer, we make choices according to what looks good in the window display or perhaps on the magazine or what a Hollywood personality is wearing. Sometimes, our purchasing decisions tend to be influenced by what is trendy in fashion industry as well. Besides it all, once you determine which group of colors you belong to; you should stay within those range of colors. Unless you decide to change your hair color and/or tan line, then you must also be prepared to change your entire wardrobe color other than neutral colors. It doesn’t matter whether you are wearing casual outfits or formal attire, you should keep things complimentary to your shape and color. When you are wearing the right silhouette for your body, the right shade of colors for your skin tone and hair color, you can be confident that someone will take notice of how you carry yourself. You should carry the dress (fashion/style) and not the dress (style/fashion) carry you!

Knowledge is power… and when you are feeling powerful with this knowledge in fashion, you can go out there and show your fashion confidence. Let there be style!

What are the “Do’s” and “Don’ts” on Rental Garments?

When it comes to final fitting day on rentals – we sometimes do encounter problems such as shorter/longer length or wrong size ordered. Whether the customer was measured wrong elsewhere or unknowingly gained or lost weight, the three most common questions asked are:  can you adjust the length for me?…or can you take this in?…or can you let this out?

There are two (2) most important and distinct differences to remember why there are limitations on alteration requests with rental garments compared to none with purchased garments.

PURCHASED GARMENTS – Ownership, is the key word for this particular matter. Any purchased garments “CAN” be altered or customized to fit you “like a glove,” or how you want it to look once purchased. Unless the fabric is elastic or meant to fit loosely, you do not need to worry about any adjustments or alteration expense(s).

RENTAL GARMENTS – Lease, is the key word to remember. Since you have no true ownership other than designated time of use of these items, you have no right to alter or custom fit it to your liking without the rental’s knowledge and approval. You might be allowed to temporary hem the length of the garment(s) but “NOT” to cut permanently any part of the rental clothing nor permanently change the shape/form of any rentals. Rentals are designed to fit the general population and not to a specific customer. Therefore, it is very important to remember that rentals are made/cut to fit in standard sizing scale.

KNOWING HOW TO GET SIZED OR MEASURED PROFESSIONALLY IS CRUCIAL TO HAVING A BETTER FITTING OUTFIT.

When renting garments, it is VERY IMPORTANT to DO; get measured professionally at a tuxedo or suit shop. DO NOT; trust a new trainee with just a tape measure. DO; try the  coat at the least and if allowed, pants and shirt as well – instead of just agreeing on what was written on the form. Double check and make sure that the sizes you were assigned to wear is not too tight or too loose, nor too short or too long especially, if you are an out-of-town renter. By doing this, it will increase the likelihood of a proper fit. For tuxedo and suit sizing; DO NOT get measured by a seamstress unless, you have specific instructions for her. If you are an out-of-town renter who lives in a town that does not have these specialty shops, DO: view our website page on how to take measurements. Follow the instructions carefully. If in doubt, DO: give us a call and we will be glad to help guide and walk you through the steps over the phone. DO NOT: GUESS YOUR SIZE!

UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENT BODY SILHOUETTES IS HELPFUL ON HOW YOU GAUGE RENTAL FITTING EXPECTATIONS AND LEARN HOW TO ADDRESS SOLUTIONS IN A POSITIVE & EFFECTIVE MANNER.

Generally speaking, there are five (5) major shapes to consider on how we can accommodate these rental alterations requests without permanently changing or compromising the garments intended size, shape and/or form. Knowing one’s body shape and form is always helpful. The following are easy and simple temporary solutions to make both the rental customer and renter happy.

1.) Athletic or V-cut = Expect: a wide upper body with smaller waist and hip line. Do: order a size that will fit the widest part of the body. If necessary, move the button(s) temporarily to make the waist line appear smaller and fit tighter. Don’t: cut or take in permanently any part of the waist line and/or lower body areas. Otherwise, this will deemed damaged rental garment.

2.) Hourglass shape = Expectation: not much – when it comes to body circumference. This silhouette is considered the most proportionate specifically, for a female shape. Do: look and feel great with a smile :-) ! Don’t: touch anything unless, you want to be “in a sack” or “look like squeezed sausage links”.

3.) Diamond shape = Expect; a wider waist line with narrow chest and hips. Do; order a size that accommodates the widest part of the body. If this is a suit, the shoulders will be really big/wide but at least able to button the waist line without looking like a “squeezed sausage links”. Otherwise, temporarily move the button(s) to the maximum space allotted to give extra room. This is definitely learning how to compromise at its best. Don’t; let-out or take-in any part(s) of the fabric permanently or this will be considered damaged rental garment.

4.) Pear or spoon or bell shape = Expect; lower part of the body to be wider than the upper body. Do; order a size that will accommodate the widest part of the body. Of course, the garment’s upper body will be bigger/looser. The temporary solution, is to move the button(s) to tighten areas where needed. As you do this, the rental garment will have a feel and look of a better outfit. Don’t; take-in or let-out permanently any part(s) of the garment as this will cost the renter a replacement fee.

5.) Rectangle or straight or banana shape = Expect; the upper, mid-section and lower body to be relatively similar. Do; move button(s) temporarily if any, to tighten areas where needed. By doing so, this will make the garment have the appearance and feel of a better fitting rental outfit. Don’t; permanently cut  any part of the garment to either take in or let out. Otherwise, this will cost a renter to pay damaged fees.

The above suggestions are mostly on how to address the body’s circumference or dealing with weight change solutions.

Length adjustments are considered minor and are common occurrence on rentals. Therefore, it is the most common adjustments allowed using temporary hemming stitch.

BEING AWARE OF DIFFERENT RENTAL FEATURES TO ENSURE A DECENT FIT.

Renters should be aware of or need to look for these rental features to achieve proper fit.

  • One very common feature is an adjustable waist line (sliding track) on rental pants. This feature could either work for you or against you. Each set of rental pants are three-inch-waist-size adjustable (i.e. 33-34-35 set or 36-37-38 set). If you do not get measured properly, one inch gap could mean slipping a pants off because it was too loose.
  • Another feature that is extremely helpful is a draw-string or lace-up garments. For those who are worried that they might be loosing or gaining weight due to stress or excitement of the upcoming event, the aforementioned feature will be your next best friend.
  • Pleated or elastic waist bands are also something that you might want to consider when renting garments. This certainly helps during the “happy hour” if you do not wish to loose the chance of sampling every food item as well as enjoying your favorite beverage(s).

Though, sometimes we do have to remember…it is not the garment that is the problem! The problem is, the disproportionate or deformed bodies we have that must also deal with gravity. The word COMPROMISE is one very important part of a successful marriage life. This is the best time to start practicing on how to compromise especially, for wedding parties. If a marrying individual or couple have not yet learned to accept that life is not perfect, nor that the world does not owe us…life itself can be very stressful, difficult and will always be disappointing. Absolutely and most definitely, not one person is perfect! By learning how to compromise and understand how things work…you will not be disappointed all the time. So from here on, LBB’s staff advise is to start practicing on how to compromise especially, with the “little” or “big” details of your wedding party. Be involved in the decision making and be considerate. Allow room for mistake(s) especially on small details to avoid disappointment. FOCUS on the bigger picture!

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