Sweet style: How to wear romantic ruffles

Style editor Bobbie Thomas offers 4 different ways to wear the frilly trend

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Romantic ruffles for Valentine’s Day into spring Feb. 10: TODAY’s style editor Bobbie Thomas shows Hoda Kotb an array of fashion-forward ruffled styles appropriate for day, night and all ages. Today show

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A romantic current is sweeping in this spring and ruffles are making waves. Designers are playing with fabric and the result is a modern update — longer, looser, twisted and turned — with many more relaxed styles than we’re used to seeing. These nonperfect puckers are often elegant and unexpected, but the best part is, they can be worn everywhere from the workplace to weekend.

Bobbie Thomas, TODAY Style editor and author of The Buzz column for In Touch Weekly, explores the most current ways to embrace this textured trend.

Fashion-forward frills
While the concept of a romantic piece might not automatically seem professional, recent abstract takes on the ruffle can be office appropriate. In fact, ruffles can add a feminine twist in a conservative environment where most wardrobe is menswear-inspired. While little ruffles can feel “cutesy,” larger folds that lie flat will add depth and movement to separates or suits without feeling too frilly. And asymmetrical layers can help soften structured items, while carving out curves in just the right places. But don’t be afraid to belt cardigans or blouses to tame volume.
Ruffled wrap top, $49, Loehmann's; Tiered ruffle skirt, $89.90, Zara.com

Pretty and preppy
On your downtime, smaller details can make all the difference, so consider giving your casual cotton and easy knits a modern update. An outfit that would otherwise feel flat comes to life thanks to little extras that add visual interest. Tiny elements of texture on a T-shirt, or even a menswear button-down with a tuxedolike ruffle trim, can offer your weekend wear some flair. A plethora of accessories, from bags to belts to shoes, can also be found with puckered or pleated accents. But keep in mind, as with any trend, moderation is key.
Cascading Rose T-shirt, $45; Jcrew.com, Slim fit white jeans, $59.90, Mango.com; Deux lux ruffle handbag, $68, Urbanoutfitters.com

Trendy tiers
With so many edgy items en vogue — from biker jackets to knee-length boots and studded bags — ruffles add a touch of sweet to any sharp, tailored look. Even someone who is resistant to the idea of ruffling, or who usually keeps her clothing sleek, can benefit from the softness of a fluid item that flows. Long layers look easy and modern, and help tough fabrics and sharp tailoring become more approachable. Meanwhile, straight lines will help balance out anything billowy. In the end, it’s all about contrast.
AK Anne Klein Blouse, $29.99, TJMaxx.com; Faux leather blazer, $24.95, Hm.com

For children: Look 1 — Kiddo USA ruffle tank, $8, Tjmaxx.com; denim leggings, $18, Macys.com; Sneakers, $30, Zara.com; Look 2 — Scooter Brown T-shirt, $7, Tjmaxx.com; denim jacket, $37.50, sequin scarf, $10, Macys.com; ruffle skirt, $20, Zara.com; leggings, $9, Oldnavy.com; Skechers Twinkle Toes sneakers, $39.99, Jcpenney.com

Dressy and delicate
Fall’s structured, architectural styles are giving way to softer, more whimsical looks for spring. Put aside images of little girls in pink poufy party dresses, and think of more-mature, muted tones such as blush, rose and baby blue. These hues offer sophistication and allow subtle details to stand out. Layered ruffles of lace and chiffon add an airy transparency, and raw edges give vintage-inspired versions modernity. The cascading edges of a trench or a wrap will instantly add drama to a simple little black dress and inspire the perfect look for your next special occasion.
Ruffle dress, $129, Zara.com; Silk ruffle trench, $228

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SI swimsuit models on finding the right fit

The trend this year is more pin-up styles than teeny-weeny silhouettes

	Model Jessica White will be in the magazine’s swimsuit issue, which goes on sale Wednesday, Feb. 10.
Raphael Mazzucco / ASSOCIATED PRESS

Archive video

Bar Refaeli is S.I. swimsuit issue cover girl Feb 10, 2009: TODAY hosts talk to model Bar Refaeli about being on the cover of the 2009 Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue. Today show

NEW YORK - There's a swimsuit out there for everyone, but even for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit models, finding the right one can take a little time.

For the annual beach-bonanza issue, which will debut its 47th edition on Wednesday, hundreds of bathing suits are collected. For every model who feels most comfortable in a string bikini there's someone else who prefers a bandau, says Diane Smith, Swimsuit editor.

The trend this year seemed to be more Hollywood-siren, pin-up styles than teeny-weeny silhouettes. "The girls loved it. It brings out a glamour in them."

Of course, the models are starting out with an advantage that many other women don't have: They are professional posers, and Sports Illustrated chooses only those at the top of their game. Cheryl Tiegs, Tyra Banks, Heidi Klum and Marisa Miller are among those who have appeared on the cover.

Models say they ramp up their workouts, but they don't necessarily "diet."

"Sports Illustrated doesn't want us skinny," says model Julie Henderson, who is making her fourth appearance in the magazine. "They want us to portray a woman's body."

When Damaris Lewis showed up in Palm Springs, Calif., for her shoot, the first stop she made was an In-N-Out Burger fast-food joint.

Smith says eating on the set is encouraged, noting that they're often in remote locations with not much else to do but work, visit the hotel spa — and enjoy a good meal.

SI veterans Henderson, Lewis and Hilary Rhoda share some swimsuit wisdom:

Henderson
"I've learned a lot about swimsuits over the years, actually, and the smaller the better for tan purposes," she says. She also likes an adjustable-tie bottom so there isn't an elastic band to worry about any muffin-top effect.

Henderson, a Texas native, spends any free moment she can at the beach. Her favorite swimsuit was a white string bikini with seashell embellishment — probably because it was a reminder of the sun and surf.

When she's not wearing body makeup and oil for a photo shoot, Henderson says her beach beauty routine is simple: sunscreen with SPF of at least 15.

Rhoda
Posing for S.I. in a bikini is very different than a fashion magazine shoot or runway show, says Rhoda, who has modeled for Rag & Bone, Michael Kors, Carolina Herrera and more. These photos, she says, really look like her and convey more of her own personality. "The hair and makeup is so natural . that's my favorite part of it. In high fashion, sometimes you look weird or unrecognizable."

For years, her bathing suit of choice was a Speedo racer as she was on the swim team growing up in Maryland. She's abandoned that for a triangle-shaped bikini, though.

Rhoda says she never tries on bathing suits while she's out shopping. She buys them, brings them home, tries them on her own terms and returns what she needs to. "In stores, dressing rooms and lights are so unflattering," Rhoda says.

Lewis
Lewis says she's just getting used to the title of "Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model" even though this is her second year.

She also, over time, has learned to become more comfortable with her own body — and its evolving more voluptuous and feminine shape as she gets older — and how it looks in a bathing suit.

Still, she says, she preferred this year's suits, which weren't as skimpy. Her go-to silhouette is a halter-top bikini, string bottom and anything with ruching. Because she has a short torso, finding a one-piece suit is trickier — some crease in the middle because she doesn't have the length to fill it out, Lewis says.

She also has a favorite pose — one she said that would work for anyone who feels she's short-waisted: Put your hands above your head and cross them, and poke your hip out. It works when you're not wearing a bathing suit, too, she says.

Read more...

SI swimsuit models on finding the right fit

The trend this year is more pin-up styles than teeny-weeny silhouettes

	Model Jessica White will be in the magazine’s swimsuit issue, which goes on sale Wednesday, Feb. 10.
Raphael Mazzucco / ASSOCIATED PRESS

Archive video

Bar Refaeli is S.I. swimsuit issue cover girl Feb 10, 2009: TODAY hosts talk to model Bar Refaeli about being on the cover of the 2009 Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue. Today show

NEW YORK - There's a swimsuit out there for everyone, but even for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit models, finding the right one can take a little time.

For the annual beach-bonanza issue, which will debut its 47th edition on Wednesday, hundreds of bathing suits are collected. For every model who feels most comfortable in a string bikini there's someone else who prefers a bandau, says Diane Smith, Swimsuit editor.

The trend this year seemed to be more Hollywood-siren, pin-up styles than teeny-weeny silhouettes. "The girls loved it. It brings out a glamour in them."

Of course, the models are starting out with an advantage that many other women don't have: They are professional posers, and Sports Illustrated chooses only those at the top of their game. Cheryl Tiegs, Tyra Banks, Heidi Klum and Marisa Miller are among those who have appeared on the cover.

Models say they ramp up their workouts, but they don't necessarily "diet."

"Sports Illustrated doesn't want us skinny," says model Julie Henderson, who is making her fourth appearance in the magazine. "They want us to portray a woman's body."

When Damaris Lewis showed up in Palm Springs, Calif., for her shoot, the first stop she made was an In-N-Out Burger fast-food joint.

Smith says eating on the set is encouraged, noting that they're often in remote locations with not much else to do but work, visit the hotel spa — and enjoy a good meal.

SI veterans Henderson, Lewis and Hilary Rhoda share some swimsuit wisdom:

Henderson
"I've learned a lot about swimsuits over the years, actually, and the smaller the better for tan purposes," she says. She also likes an adjustable-tie bottom so there isn't an elastic band to worry about any muffin-top effect.

Henderson, a Texas native, spends any free moment she can at the beach. Her favorite swimsuit was a white string bikini with seashell embellishment — probably because it was a reminder of the sun and surf.

When she's not wearing body makeup and oil for a photo shoot, Henderson says her beach beauty routine is simple: sunscreen with SPF of at least 15.

Rhoda
Posing for S.I. in a bikini is very different than a fashion magazine shoot or runway show, says Rhoda, who has modeled for Rag & Bone, Michael Kors, Carolina Herrera and more. These photos, she says, really look like her and convey more of her own personality. "The hair and makeup is so natural . that's my favorite part of it. In high fashion, sometimes you look weird or unrecognizable."

For years, her bathing suit of choice was a Speedo racer as she was on the swim team growing up in Maryland. She's abandoned that for a triangle-shaped bikini, though.

Rhoda says she never tries on bathing suits while she's out shopping. She buys them, brings them home, tries them on her own terms and returns what she needs to. "In stores, dressing rooms and lights are so unflattering," Rhoda says.

Lewis
Lewis says she's just getting used to the title of "Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model" even though this is her second year.

She also, over time, has learned to become more comfortable with her own body — and its evolving more voluptuous and feminine shape as she gets older — and how it looks in a bathing suit.

Still, she says, she preferred this year's suits, which weren't as skimpy. Her go-to silhouette is a halter-top bikini, string bottom and anything with ruching. Because she has a short torso, finding a one-piece suit is trickier — some crease in the middle because she doesn't have the length to fill it out, Lewis says.

She also has a favorite pose — one she said that would work for anyone who feels she's short-waisted: Put your hands above your head and cross them, and poke your hip out. It works when you're not wearing a bathing suit, too, she says.

Read more...