I am thrilled that so many of you strike up conversations in the comment section of my style stories. I find that the style conversation can be thought-provoking and confidence-invoking! Education is the first step to empowerment, right? Since you are such an active audience, I’ve chosen three questions/comments posted below a few of my previous articles that I think are important to answer and address. Let’s get started!

• For the Girls: Comment from Sexy vs. Revealing:

“But what if you wear shapewear and you want to hug your date? Guys will find a stiff, tight undergarment unappealing when he touches you. And then what do you say? Sounds like the same problem Bridget Jones had. What do you do about that?” ~Princess

Laurie’s Answer:  This is SUCH a great question! I’m sure many girls have wanted to ask this and you have asked it for all of us, so thank you!

Now here’s the answer. Shapewear is annoying to wear. That’s just the bottom line. But when we feel uncomfortable about our bodies and want to smooth out and slim down, they really are your best solution. My personal solution is to own up to it. Honesty is always the best policy. And once you tell him, you can remove the feeling of embarrassment and start to actually enjoy yourself. It’s just part of getting dressed! Am I right? But, the real question is. Which are you more uncomfortable with? Wearing the shapewear? Or going just as yourself in your own body? I would consider this first. Sometimes having that extra layer of fabric helps us feel secure. And if that will help you feel more confident on your date, then go for it. I always say: You sometimes have to get uncomfortable to get comfortable. The bottom line whether you choose to wear shapewear or not, be confident that you made the right decision for you and go have some fun!

• For the Boys: Comment from Dress Taller:

“Yet many of your suggestions are artificial… which many women find disingenuous.” ~Nealio

Laurie’s Answer:  Yes! I completely agree. Being disingenuous on a date is an absolute no-no. You always want to show the “true you,” the person you are on the inside. But what happens when you are insecure about your height? Or your weight?  Or anything else for that matter. Then what? That insecurity will actually drag down your energy and your overall look. Making that great first impression should be your main priority, and sometimes we may have to find ways to create a little confidence in ourselves (even if we don’t believe it at the time). With a bit more self-assurance, you can walk up to your date, smile, and say: “Hi, I’m Jonah,” in your strongest voice, with your shoulders back and your head held high. I am a firm believer that the right match will be the right match, and all of these insecurities will fade away. However, I am in the business of building confidence. And these tips are meant to be confidence boosters. If they can help somebody who may be feeling insecure, or feel that their height is something to be concerned about when it comes to dating, then the job is done. I don’t want people to ever be “artificial.” I want them to be confident – because when you are confident, you shine beyond your wardrobe and that is the goal with these tips. All it takes is one compliment. And if wearing light grey jeans, with the smart choice of a light colored kick, garners positive attention from your date, then the purpose of the styling trick is fulfilled!

• For the Girls: Comment from Sexy vs Revealing:

“Speaking for those who cannot wear heels – it’s important to add boots and flats are okay/sexy too.” ~Anakus

Laurie’s Answer:  Flats and flat boots can most definitely be sexy, especially if you feel good with what you are wearing. So when opting for flats, go with something that has a pointed toe, a creative color, or even a ruffle detail. Then pair that with a midi-skirt with waist definition and your favorite top. The trick to wearing flats is that you want to keep your legs looking long and lean; you can do that by choosing items that proportionately make your legs look longer. Therefore, a nude-colored flat, leopard print, blush pink hue, or even metallic, all act as fun neutrals to still give off a bit of sexy while being girly and functional.

When it comes to boots, there are a few different styles from which you can choose.  You can pick an edgier riding boot, or a sleek pointed-toe boot. When wearing the riding boot make sure to pair it with something ultra-feminine, like a flirty dress and fitted blazer or cardigan. When wearing the pointed-toe sleek boots, pair it with a matching color pair of tights and a mini style skirt (keep in mind mini can be knee-length too… it just depends on your skirt length preference). Wearing matching tights with a sleek boot elongates your legs and wearing a mini skirt adds the sexy femme feel as well. And with keeping in line with the “either/or” rule, wear a blouse that shows a bit of skin since you are covering up the whole bottom half. If you style yourself more conservatively, or prefer to be covered up, try a feminine peplum blouse and layer a long sleeve under it. This way you get the girly feeling of a waistline, while dressing appropriately for your date.

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