Saturday July 19, 2008
ym.com > body > i want to look hot, without looking cheap!
My Mom Wants Me To Be More Social I don't participate in any clubs or do anything with other people. I just prefer to do stuff alone, rather than depend on others.
My religion and my parents have very specific requirements about what kinds of clothing I can wear: nothing that shows my stomach, skirts and shorts knee-length or longer, no low necklines, no bare shoulders or sleeveless tops and nothing too tight. How can I adhere to these guidelines and still look HOT?
A.T., Monterey, CA
That's a tricky question, because lots of trendy stuff tends to be revealing. It's tough to find clothing that isn't super high cut or low cut or just barely there. Our suggestion? Get inspired! Rent classic movies with stars that will totally motivate you and make you realize that there is no need to bare it all to look amazing. Try Breakfast at Tiffany's, Sabrina or Funny Face with style icon Audrey Hepburn; Rear Window and To Catch a Thief with Grace Kelly; and the famous French film Breathless with Jean Seberg, whose effortlessly chic, gamine styles will rock your world. We guarantee it! Also, always make sure to avoid looking sloppy. Your clothing should fit (and if it doesn't, bring it to a tailor or donate it to charity), be clean, neat and of a nice quality. A pair of cute khakis with a white button-down shirt, along with a pretty pair of flats and some eye-catching jewelry is just one example of a flattering outfit that may work for you. Or, pick up some summer sundresses and add a fitted jacket or cardigan on top. Play with patterns and bright colors, so you don't feel too staid. Try a pencil skirt with a sweater set (very '50s!) or some stylish jeans and a simple long-sleeved tee with an interesting neckline (like a boatneck). We could go on and on, but you get the point. There's stuff out there for you, you just have to be a little creative.
Also, keep in mind that people who dress a bit more demurely often look way more attractive than those who bare it all. Don't feel like following the guidelines of your religion and those of your parents will keep you from looking attractive. In fact, quite the opposite is true! Most of all, remember, "hot" is a state of mind. If you feel good about yourself and show some confidence, people will respond, whether your skirt is a micro-mini or it's touching your toes! You may wind up setting your own trends by showing the world that you can be gorgeous without looking like a backup dancer in a music video.
Andrea Pyros
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