On this blog my central focus is how to be glamorous daily, even on a budget. This is what I believe in and how I operate my life. One day while perusing in Dollar Tree an expensive looking book caught my eye. I found Living in Style – Inspiration and Advice for Everyday Glamor by Rachel Zoe. Upon further inspection I realized this book closely parallels what I strive for and my interests. While reading the book I thought that it would be interesting to take notes and share what I learned, almost as a book review. I have never done this type of post before, but I got a lot out of this book, and I think that you will too. During the course of this review you will learn how to incorporate little bits of glamor into your lifestyle, from fashion, makeup, events, travel, and more. You will also discover your own personal style.
Chapter 1
The Transformative Power of Fashion
Zoe begins explaining how to be glamorous by thinking about the way that fashion can bring out the inner you. For example, she states that by simply donning a red dress can make you feel like you have a new identity. On that same note, fashion is a representation of your self-expression, not just the clothing itself. In thinking about a handbag, yours should be creative and tell your story, rather than disclosing how much you have in the bank.
Finding Your Personal Style
Before you can learn how to be glamorous daily, you need to discover your unique, personal style. Zoe suggests a good approach is by using “mood boards.” You can use bulletin boards and push pins or just a wall and tape. Seek out images from magazines, the internet, etc. and affix them to your mood board.
Experiment With Clothing
Once you have some inspiration to guide you, Zoe mentions playing with your clothing. The first tactic is “gender bending,” or blurring the lines between men and women’s clothing. Try pairing a velvet blazer with denim trousers. Additionally, a jacket with a peplum waist worn over a blouse provides an instant, polished aesthetic. These pieces can be accessorized with statement jewelry. Other ways to experiment include wrap dresses paired with stacked wood heels and bold cuffs. Zoe states that the best investment a woman can make is by purchasing a suit, however, you also need some basics in your closet that function as building blocks. These basics include:
- Something sequined
- Crisp denim
- A jumpsuit
- A leather jacket
- Tuxedo
- White button up shirt
- A chunky knit
- Three piece suit
- Fit and flare dress
- Maxi skirt
Emergency SOS Kit
In learning how to be glamorous we must recognize that slip-ups will happen. For these kinds of moments, Zoe recommends carrying an emergency kit in your purse. This kit should include:
- Safety pins
- Mini static guard spray
- Travel deodorant
- Travel-size lint roller
- Wipes
- Bobby pins
- Hair elastics
- Stain remover pen
- Top stick tape
Chapter 2
Developing Your Signature Style
Zoe is adamant that anyone can put together great outfits, even on a dime, much like I believe. In order to do so, you need to figure out what your signature style is. She has some tricks to help in this department. First, think of those people whose style you admire. Second, examine your own wardrobe to find your comfort pieces, or those pieces that you have too much of. When you wear those pieces, do they flatter you? How do they make you feel? Third, do not hesitate to ask a friend or spouse their opinion about your style. Finally, come up with an adjective that conveys how you want to look and feel.
Accentuate Your Body
Now that you have discovered your personal style, you need to work with your beautiful body, which may just be the secret in how to be glamorous. First, pay attention to where hemlines fall for dresses and skirts. Second, keep in mind that metallic fabrics add curve. Third, belts worn on your waistline make your torso appear longer, while wide belts give the hourglass effect. Fourth, anyone can pull-off a maxi dress. Fifth, skinny horizontal stripes make you look taller. Sixth, chokers make your neck look longer. Finally, experiment with white, dark denim is more slimming than light, and nude heels make your legs look longer. The key point here is to take risks now and again, or try something new just once.
Getting Dressed
To Zoe, how to be glamorous is an easy feat, but she recognizes us ladies do not enjoy getting dressed everyday. Before getting dressed she suggests that you ask yourself:
- What is on my schedule?
- Who am I seeing today?
- How long is my day?
By asking these questions you can get dressed with an agenda in mind, and you may need to select an outfit that can transform on demand. Zoe also reminds us that at certain points in our lives we need to reevaluate our closets. These times include:
- Having a child
- Falling in or out of love
- Career change
- Weight change
- New move
- Milestone birthday
Finally, Zoe encourages us to buy vintage whenever possible. Vintage is often inexpensive and makes it less likely that someone else will have the same piece. Her vintage shopping tips are:
- Does it fit you?
- Is it in good condition?
- Will it modernize with your other pieces?
- Is it a true investment?
Chapter 3
Jewelry
In further thinking about how to be glamorous, Zoe steps away from actual clothing for a spell and focuses on accessories, with jewelry being first. She believes that an outfit is not complete without jewelry, and I stand behind that. Occasionally she allows jewelry to be the building blocks of an outfit, but it can also be the finishing touch by adding texture or a pop of color. In Zoe’s mind, bold accessories are a woman’s armor and jewelry always tells a story. She states that if your ears are pierced you should wear earrings at all times, and I stick to this rule. There are five “style personas” that you can match your jewelry style to:
- Bohemian spirit: gold hoops, long beaded chains or links, chunky rings, or turquoise or coral
- Chic minimalist: Rolex watch, simple gold band rings
- Fashion rebel: studs, spikes, oversized pendant necklaces, geometrics
- Drama queen: statement rings, oversized cuffs, tassel earrings, flashy gold chokers
- Uptown girl: diamond stud earrings, cognac-banded watch, link bracelets
Shoes
Next up in how to be glamorous, there are essential or must-have shoes that will get you through all occasions:
- Black ankle boots
- Nude pumps
- All-season wedge
- Riding boots
- Ballet flats
Handbags
When speaking of handbags, Zoe believes that you should splurge on a few “investment pieces” that will last you a lifetime. These pieces should be classic and of the best quality that you can afford, rather than wasting your money on the “it” bag for the season. She also provides a list of essential handbags:
- Clutches
- Neutral hues will provide the most bang for your buck
- Size the bag according to what you need to carry
- Structured totes
- These bags take a beating, get one with feet
- Nice hardware adds instant glam
- Make sure the straps can handle weight
- Try black, dark brown, or burgundy
- Crossbody or messenger
- Soft leather wears well over time
- Get an adjustable strap as the bag should sit above the hipbone and the strap should lie flat
- Slouchy hobo
- This will be your go-to most of the time
- Should rest comfortably against your bent elbow
- Shoulder bags
- Try one with a structured chain strap for a polished style
Belts
When we are thinking about how to be glamorous, we often forget belts! According to Zoe, it is not necessary to own a bin full of them. The key belt styles include:
- Wide cinch (about 3 inches in width)
- Hip belt
- Skinny belt
- Chain belt
Sunglasses
Your eyewear provides a clear message about you. It can say “do not disturb,” add mystery, or just upgrade your look. Try to play with the style of your frames with:
- Wayfarers
- Oversized
- Aviators
- Round
- Cat-eye
Scarves
Zoe reminds us that scarves can be worn in a variety of ways and for most occasions. These include beach trips, interviews, dates, business dinners, or winter walks. She also mentions not to forget gloves!
Hats
When thinking about accessories in how to be glamorous, the last item is hats. Zoe believes that hats make statements themselves. You can spruce yours up by adding a pin, brooch, or feathers.
Chapter 4
All Things Beauty
I know that when we focus on how to be glamorous we get caught up in the clothes, but Zoe brings us back down to earth with a lesson on makeup, hair, skin, and nails. First things first- the best of beauty comes from your inner confidence which you cannot get from any cosmetic.
Makeup
Before you get all dolled up, focus on your favorite features and play them up. Maybe this means a statement color on your lips, bold eyeliner, or shimmer blush. When selecting your makeup, try a statement eye or lip, but never both because they compete for attention. Also, as you age you need less makeup. Here are some day to night makeup necessities:
- An extra coat of mascara
- Thicker or smudged eyeliner
- Highlighter
- Darker lip color
Zoe has three tips for flawless makeup:
- Test your foundation on your décolletage and shade match in natural light
- Use cream blush because it adds glow and lasts all day
- Set your foundation is pressed or loose translucent powder
Believe it or not, your outfit needs the right hair and makeup to complete it. When you are picking out makeup for your outfit, remember these points:
- Do not match your eyeshadow, rather, try something in the same color family. In the same vein, your lip color should be a few shades lighter or darker than your clothing.
- Velvet and leather requires more statement makeup, while light colors call for transparent or romantic makeup
- If you are dressing vintage, keep your makeup contemporary
- If you are wearing clean lines, keep your makeup fresh and hair sharp
Zoe discloses her beauty “heroes,” or favorite products. These include:
- Egyptian Magic
- Tatcha Beauty Papers
- Nars Orgasm blush
- Skyn Iceland Eye Gels
- Armani Luminous Silk Foundation
- Tarte Lights, Cameras, Lashes and Givenchy Phenom
- Acrona Triad Pads
- Smashbox Limitless Liquid Liner Pen
- Zoya nail polishes
Since we are thinking about Zoe’s top rated makeup products, we must not forget her essential makeup brushes:
Skincare and Nails
If your skin is neglected, people will be able to tell no matter the amount of makeup that you wear. When it comes to your nails, save money and do them at home. Zoe states that nail polish actually takes 12 hours to dry, and blowing on your nails is not a good plan of attack. For a manicure that lasts, be sure to paint the tips with your polish and top coat.
Haircare
When you are asking yourself how to be glamorous on the daily, your hair plays a big factor. To avoid frizz, Zoe says you should allow your hair to air dry 75% before using a blow dryer. Next, you should only wash your hair once or twice per week, while prolonging your style with dry shampoo. Zoe is a believer in shampoo buildup and recommends rotating your shampoo and conditioner every month. She deep conditions once per week. Her favorite haircare products are:
- Kerastase Cristalliste shampoo and conditioner
- Byron Williams Spurlina hair spray
- Gloss Moderne High-Gloss Masque
- Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray
- Hamadi Organics Healing Serum
- Phylia Connect Leave-in Treatment
Zoe’s favorite hair tools include:
- Round brushes
- 1300 watt hair dryer
- Wide-toothed comb
- Mini flat iron
- Curling iron or rollers
- Cear elastics
Finally in this chapter, Zoe lays out a list of hair and makeup that is always stylish:
- Red lips
- Glowing skin
- Smoky eye
- Major lashes
- Statement brow
- Straight hair
- Topknot
- Braids
- Ponytail
- Beach waves
Chapter 5
How to Be Glamorous in Your Home
Glamour is not limited to clothing and beauty! Your home should always represent your style, or else you will feel like a visitor. Zoe approaches decorating a home like crafting an outfit. She recommends carrying one element from room to room. When she purchases major furnishings, she considers these points:
- Can I live with the color/design for a decade?
- How does it work with my other pieces?
- Is it functional or just for show?
- If it gets stained will I be upset?
- Do I really love it?
When picking out paint for your home, Zoe has some rules of thumb. First, admire a swatch on your wall for 24 hours so that you can evaluate the style at dawn and dusk. Second, the type of paint that you should use depends on the area. Matte or flat paint is best for ceilings, living rooms, or older homes in general. Eggshell paint should never be used in the kitchen or bathroom, rather, try satin. Semi-gloss is best used for crown moldings, castings, and doors. Gloss is another fun option.
Closet Organization
When I think about how to be glamorous, my walk-in closet layout and decor is just as important as my outfits, and Zoe agrees. To begin, hang your clothes on uniform hangers and organize them by color, style, or type. Not sure what pieces should be stored folded? The best pieces to fold are jeans, sweaters, and basics. Stick to stacks no taller than 12 inches to avoid collapses. Your delicates should always be stored in drawers with organizers. Wooden shelves should be protected with liners. Finally, think about dressing up your space by displaying your favorite pieces. This may mean draping a scarf over a bench.
Chapter 6
The Busy Life
Zoe takes a moment to remind us that amidst the hustle and bustle we need to take time for ourselves. She states that we must place our to-do lists aside and marvel at the good things in life. The key is spending time with your family and friends whenever you can because the simplest of rituals are the ones that you will come to value the most. Also, go forth and make traditions. Finally, when it comes to buying gifts, it is about being thoughtful over being extravagant.
Chapter 7
Hosting Events
Have you ever wondered how to be glamorous at events, especially ones that you are hosting? Zoe has our back in this area. She starts with lighting by saying that dim lighting is the most flattering. The flow of your guests is also imperative. Find ways to get them to move around during the event. Finally, make it look like you are enjoying yourself because you really are.
What to Wear
Of course, the way that you dress is important and varies per occasion. Zoe suggests that when you are the host you should dress up and take risks, and do not forget the statement jewelry! Cocktail parties work with jumpsuits, heels, and layered accessories. Candlelit dinner parties call for little black dresses paired with chokers. Third, casual weekend brunches are grounds for dark denim, boyfriend jackets, and fitted white t-shirts. Last, maxi dresses and gladiators are appropriate for barbecues.
Floral Decor and Scents
Zoe loves to decorate her dining tables with fresh flowers. Her favorites are:
- Hydrangeas
- Phalaenopsis orchids
- Calla lilies
- Peonies
- Tulips
Sneaking a scent into your event can really set the mood. Try these scents depending on the occasion:
- Amber: get together on a cold night
- Fig: dinner party
- Lavender: daytime event
- Tuberose: cocktail party
- Sandalwood: first date or romantic night in
Chapter 8
Travel in Style
The final chapter gets you thinking about how to be glamorous even on trips. Zoe has a straightforward plan of attack that makes packing less daunting. Two weeks before a trip she creates an “outfit itinerary” by taking pictures of potential outfits (including accessories) that correspond to her trip’s schedule. One week before her trip she checks the weather and makes necessary adjustments to her outfits. She also stocks up on makeup and beauty products that she is low in and picks out her nail polish. Two days before her trip she gets her clothes out and asks herself if certain pieces can be worn with multiple outfits to maximize space. All of her packing is done the day before.
What to Wear
Of course, certain destinations call for a particular travel wardrobe:
- Urban destinations: bold jewelry, heels, structured cross bodies, motorcycle or classic riding boots with a wedge heel, dark wash skinny jeans, silk button-up blouses, tuxedo dresses
- Beaches: caftans, maxi dresses, eye-lit sundresses, gladiator sandals, a black bikini, printed peasant blouses, an oversized raffia tote
- Winter destinations: faux-fur lined wedge boots, belted puffer jackets, black knit leggings, cable-knit cashmere sweaters
In Conclusion
At the end of this book review I can confidently say how to be glamorous in little and in big ways is actually easy. Once you discover who you are and what composes your tastes, you are sure to find that style and luxe are already hiding in your drawers. We also know now that glamour is not to be limited, rather, it extends to your decor, parties, and travels. No matter who you are or how much money you have, we all have some glam in us. Until next time, continue to let your true beauty shine.
