When I started writing this blog in 2008, one of my mantras was “belt it.”  You don’t like the way that dress fits? Belt it.  Want to jazz up that cardigan?  Belt it.  Want to add definition to your waist, break up a long torso, balance a pear shape or just pull together your look? […]

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, it’s time to start thinking about one of Belle’s favorite topics, lingerie.  Long time readers of this blog know that I have strong opinions about lingerie, especially for a woman who doesn’t date, because I believe that lacy and racy underpinnings are not just for special occasions, they are for […]

Sweater pilling is a scourge upon humanity.  Every day, I walk the marble halls and see women and men with small granules of cloth covering their clothing. Not only does pilling make a sweater look old, it makes it look poorly cared for, like unshined shoes or unhemmed pants.  Some bloggers will tell you that […]

I do the vast majority of my shopping online.  The reasons are simple: I can almost always find my size, I don’t have to wait in line and if I find a promo code, I can usually save a few bucks or at least, earn free shipping.  But the best thing about shopping online is […]

Over the past few years, I have preached about how important proper-fitting undergarments are.  I’ve even encouraged my readers to go for professional bra-fittings.  But, I have a confession to make, “My name is Belle, and I was wearing the wrong size bra.” The last time I was measured for a bra was during college, […]

  Last week, Anh at 9 to 5 Chic shared the contents of her travel bag, and I thought that it was such a cute idea, that I decided to do the same.   The Bag: Rebecca Minkoff Linen Spark Satchel.  I picked this bag up at the Rebecca Minkoff online sample sale this spring, […]

As you know, I am a huge proponent of opaque tights.  I hate when I can see skin through my tights.  I’ve even been known to wear two pair of tights just to achieve the ultimate level of opacity.  But not anymore. Last week, a friend in Colorado recommended Commando Ultimate Matte Opaque Tights ($34).  […]

Every summer, I do a post on maintaining personal hygiene.  It’s 100 degrees outside and 99% relative humidity, of course you need tips on managing perspiration.  But what most people don’t realize is that it’s actually harder to maintain winter-time hygiene.  Allow me to explain. As you layer on sweaters, jackets, coats and scarves, your […]

Women are notorious overpackers.  I once went on a three day trip with a woman who brought two full suitcases.  Her explanation?  “I’d rather have it and not need it, than need it and not have it.”   Frankly, that’s garbage, a refuge for women who are indecisive.  If you plan stylish outfits in advance, […]