The Budget Fashionista

The economy is in the tubes. Few of us can go out and purchase a totally new wardrobe. Jerry Pozniak, of Jeeves New York, gives us experts tips on how to maintain what we got.

Plunging Necklines: Breastbone cleavage has made a lasting impression in the fashion world and according to Jerry double-sided tape is not the only thing one has to count on when it comes to keep your most private places covered. “The proportions of a dress – from the length to the shoulder seams dictate how it will fall on a person’s body,� says Jerry, “there’s only so much tape can do if a dress does not fit right!� Along with making sure proportions are in place, Jerry often includes soft bra-like cups inside the fabric of a dress for those who need a little extra support – the lining of a dress or top can also be built up to keep outfits from appearing see-through under bright camera lights.

Denim: According to Jerry, choosing the right color and style of denim is crucial for how polished the look is. “You shouldn’t buy a premium pair of denim pants based on trends, go for what is appropriate for your body type and be sure to have them professionally tailored to give them a finished look,� says Jerry. Almost all premium denim lines come with extra length added – so beware when choosing a style that is faired or tapered. “What looks like great stovepipe jeans or bell bottoms on a model might not look the same way once tailored,� warns Jerry, “do a little research to find out which brands have inseams that are closest to your true size, so the proportions will look accurate.�

Dress Pants: “A good dress pant is iconic for several reasons,� says Jerry, “men look great in them and when women have them fitted right they can really stand out amongst a sea of gowns.� Jerry advises that all dress pants be tailored so they fall from the widest part of the hips, and should fall ½ an inch from the ground in heels. “A great trick tailors can do so your dress pants stay in good shape for many seasons is to hem the bottom of the pant higher in the back so your heels don’t catch when you’re walking,� says Jerry.