Baby It's Cold Outside!

Dressing for cold weather does not have to be boring. Here are some quick winter glam tips:
Accessorize with Color – Protect those extremities and choose vibrant bold colors for hats, gloves and scarves. This is an easy way to add a pop of color to your basic winter coat. Scarves are such a hot trend right now and there is a great variety of fabric, style and color. This is one accessory that can go with pretty much any outfit you create and protect you from the elements.

Dress In Layers – Get creative and experiment with various layers. Basic long sleeved tees are great under turtlenecks and vests. Choosing the right fabric is also key. A thin wicking layer like silk or polyester next to your body will keep you body heat in. Avoid cotton if possible. You may find that many items in your closet can work year around by experimenting with layering.

Don’t Lose Your Shape – Got great legs, you don’t have to wait until spring to show them off. Choose a great pair of winter tights or leggings in a bright color or texture. To balance your look, choose a heavier top or jacket. If you are wearing something wider on the bottom, opt for a cropped or belted jacket or vest.

Holiday Pizazz

Holiday Party Fashion Tips: Holiday parties are in full swing and when the invites arrives, the first thought can be what to wear. If your fashion sense and wardrobe budget are challenged, I can help you solve that closet confusion. Bling- Bling – If you think glitz and glam is for the fashion forward try adding glitz to your accessories to start. A killer pair of metallic heels will turn your walk into a wiggle, and glam up any outfit. Wrap a beaded or jewel toned silk scarf to add pizazz to an ordinary outfit. Stay tuned for more daily tips!

Spot Park Lane Jewels on DWTS!

Did you watch Dancing With The Stars last night? If so, you might have spotted this dazzling Park Lane piece on Chynna Phillips! Stay tuned to ValerieWeaver.com for the latest inside scoops about DWTS, fall fashion and more. Look for my upcoming column in Her Times, due out Oct. 2nd and be sure to "Like" ValerieWeaver.com and Park Lane Jewels on facebook!

Five Great Ways to Beat the Summer Heat!

Wanna Know 5 Great Ways to Beat the Summer Heat? Check out my latest Her Times article to be cool and look HOT this summer!

Break Out the Trenches!

Ah ... April. It's finally time to take those bulky winter coats to the dry cleaner and break out the spring outerwear.The flattering cream-colored coat Prince William's fiancee, Kate Middleton, was spotted in recently has fashionistas running to find the trendy trench laden with military details and a ruffle. But you don't have to have a royal budget to look great this summer. You can usher in spring with a reasonably priced trench that suits your style -- be it an edgy bright color, shiny metallic or basic black.

Here are a few fabulous finds we scooped up and some tips to help you choose the style and pattern that will give you the best bang for your fashion buck. 1) Accessorize. If you choose a basic black or tan trench coat, accessorize with color. A big bold flower pin or a bright scarf will add a pop of color that a basic background needs. We found lots of fun scarves and flowers at All That Glitters, 2301W. 12th St. Don't forget to cover your feet, too. A pair of bright or patterned rain boots are both fashionable and functional. 2) Consider a cropped or knee-length jacket. Shorter jackets are fashionable and sexy, and will give you more options for wearing it as a jacket rather than just as a trench coat. 3) Look for a coat with hood. Hoods come in handy on rainy and windy days. Look for a detachable or hidden hood; it's nice if you can easily remove or hide the hood when you don't need it. 4) Try a fitted trench that gives you a silhouette that will contrast nicely with other spring styles, like ruffles and peasant skirts. 5) Can't decide? Why not buy two trenches? They cost less than a winter coat, and trenches never go out of style.

Red Hot!

... You don't have to wrap yourself in red to make a statement. In fact, when it comes to red, a little goes a long way. Here are the top five tips to help you use red in your wardrobe to express your personal style. Click here to learn tips for wearing red and much more in my latest "Her Times"column!

(photo by Jack Hanrahan)

Figure-Flattering Fashion: Look your best with these simple tips

How are those shorts and capris fitting? A little snug after three months of parties and picnics? No doubt, summer fun can sometimes cause 5 or 10 pounds to sneak up on us. You don't have to spend the rest of the lazy days of the summer under wraps or sweating at the gym. Keep enjoying all summertime has to offer with these figure-flattering tips that can keep you looking fabulous and hiding that extra 5 pounds.

Body Shaper
A summer must-have, body shapers, such as Spanx, will smooth out any lumps and bumps. This little secret weapon offers loads of support under those summer dresses and gauzy tops. Fabrics and style choices in body shapers are endless. We found a lot of great options at Braserie, Dearie! in the Colony Plaza.

Soft Layers
Keep your layers lightweight, by choosing two tank tops instead of an open blouse or cardigan. Choose flowing fabrics to hide those few little extra pounds that may have landed on your waistline.

High Heels
A higher heel will do wonders to make you appear long and lean. Sandals and pumps with a 21/2- to 3-inch heel will do the trick. Make sure you are using self-tanner to keep those legs looking great.

Pantsuit
Choose a longer jacket to hide larger bottoms, unless you are petite -- shorter women should opt for a shorter jacket to avoid a boxy look. Add a sexy camisole or blouse to soften the suit and draw attention to the face.

Oversized handbag
Proportion can play tricks on the eye. Choose a shape that flatters your figure (square shapes complement a rounder figure) and find a strap length that doesn't land directly on your hips.

Use accessories
Choose scarves with long dangling ends and long, layered necklaces and earrings. These will draw the eye down vertically and make you appear taller and thinner.

V-neck tops
Necklines are key in creating an illusion of length. Always opt for a V-neck rather that a boat neck or round neckline. The V-neck is flattering on women of any size. Boat necks? Not so much.