Proportionizing…
In case you missed it, I am a huge fan of RuPaul’s Drag Race! One of the queens, Eureka O’Hara, used the term proportionizing. In fact, it kind of became her catchphrase. She is a large queen who doesn’t shy away from wearing skintight clothing. In case you don’t know, proportionizing is using pads on the thighs, hips, bust, or bottom as well as cinching in the waist to create the feminine shape. Guess who doesn’t need any pads in any of those areas!
My version of proportionizing…
There are many who follow the rule of thirds when it comes to outfits. I don’t necessarily do that, but I do know I look better when I do! Here’s what the rule of thirds basically is: Your top should be 1/3 of your outfit with your bottom half portion making up the other 2/3. Or, you could go the other way. You top should be 2/3 of your outfit with your bottom portion being 1/3. Jo-Lynne Shane has a complete post explaining it. You can read that here. I try to go for that whenever I can because it’s just more pleasing to the eye. But, I don’t actually do any measuring!
Back to proportionizing drag queen style…
Now, as I previously stated, I have no need for padding! But, since I have these curves, I try to work with them instead of against them. That being said, there are times I want to de-emphasize the curves or at least make them a little less the center of attention! Today’s look is about camouflaging the curves while sticking as close to the rule of thirds as possible! Mission Impossible? I’m not sure!
The Emilie skirt…
This beautiful Emilie skirt is from the fall collection by April Cornell. As a brand ambassador I was gifted this skirt as well as the Weekend Jersey Blouse shown here. I thought I would try the two together, but the blouse is just a tad too casual for the elegance of this skirt. This skirt is swoon-worthy! It is a luscious georgette in a delicate blue grey color. The floral print looks like a pencil sketching with pink highlights at the center of some of the flowers. The top georgette layer is a little sheer but not to worry! There is a grey lining which is about 3/4 the length of the skirt. At the bottom of the skirt is a tier or a flounce of the georgette with the grey rayon extending farther down. If you check it out online, you will see it on Claire who is 5’8″. Remember, I am 5’1″! I have it pulled quite a ways up! Luckily, the waist is elastic all the way round.
With the cardigan loose…
Believe it or not, I only have one black cardigan. I thought it might be a good match, but there was just too much contrast against the delicate coloring of the skirt. I then thought I’d try a Garnet Hill Signature Merino cardigan in a contrasting print. I have one in mind, but I didn’t want to use it for this skirt’s debut on the blog. Then, I spied this long merino cardigan (similar) from Banana Republic. The berry color was close enough to that in the skirt. Because the skirt is rather full, I didn’t want to wear anything else that would create bulk at the waistline. And, because I’m so short and short waisted, I was able to wear my Halftee as my top! The waistband of the skirt is rather wide so you don’t see any skin! I wore my belt under the cardigan at first to see how that looked. Remember, I’m going for that rule of thirds look. I think a little more than 1/3 of my skirt is showing. So, I’m close.
With the cardigan belted…
One of my goals with this look was to de-emphasize my bust. So, I’m definitely not proportionizing! I thought I would try belting the cardigan. As you can tell from the photos, I just did it as we were shooting! At first, I wasn’t going to button the cardigan, but it wouldn’t lay flat. So, I buttoned a few. I wish, now, I’d left them unbuttoned because this shape really enhances my zucchini body! But, I think you can see the rule of thirds more at play here. It would probably be even better if I’d hiked the skirt up more.
The Lewk!
Obviously, I love these Rodeha boots by L’Artiste! They were in my make believe outfit here! The hematite necklaces are old and from Stella & Dot as are the earrings. I’m not sure where the belt is from…all it says is “Genuine Leather”! So, that makes me think I may have gotten it at Macy’s. It also tells me it isn’t from Brighton because you can easily find the Brighton name on their items!
Wrap it up, Marsha!
I love this skirt and am going to work on a couple of things. One of them is whittling down this zucchini body. The other is figuring out how to style it! One of my problems is I don’t have a full length mirror in the house yet! I gave away my old one to the movers. I’m getting a bigger one from my daughter, but I just haven’t figured out where to put it yet. Short of climbing up on the vanity, I have no idea what the total look is like until we take photos! So, can we talk? Do you proportionize in one way or another? Or, are you like me and do the opposite? What do you think of the rule of thirds? Please leave me a comment or two, and we can talk! I promise to respond as quickly as possible!
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I usually see in the mirror when I don’t use the rule of 3rd. A outfit looks better, like you already said, when I do. I am in love with your boots! They are fabulous and so is the skirt!
Thanks, Nancy! I’m trying to convince myself I don’t need the boots in teal!!! I really need to get my full length mirror so I can see myself again!!!
Your outfit is lovely and I love that pop of color that your cardigan brings in.
Thanks so much, Joanne! This is one of my favorite colors!
Still Loving on those boots! Do you have any discounts available?
Kathy in Iowa <3
I really wish I did, Kathy! My recommendation would be to just google L’artiste Rodeha boots often and see if they’re ever on sale. I’ve reached out to the company but haven’t gotten any response. Believe me, if I do, I’ll be posting about it!!!
Kathy, Spring Steps is doing a friends and family sale with 15% off. It’s not a lot, but it’s something!
Zucchini body is a new term for me. Lol! I think you look fabulous as always. I love the way you belted the cardigan and the skirt is so pretty.
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Thanks so much, Kathrine! The pictures really don’t even come close in showing how pretty the skirt is!
Great style and I love those shoes. This post was really interesting to read. I hope your having a great week.
https://www.bauchlefashion.com
Thanks, Heather! I love these boots, too! I am having a wonderful week…hope you are, too!
I am bad about ignoring the 1/3 and 2/3 thing, often landing closer to 1/2 and 1/2. The berry cardigan looks terrific, and of course those boots are amazing!
Thanks, Sally! I think, when you’re short (and for some reason, I think you are), we tend to go with that 1/2 and 1/2 look! Probably because everything is so much longer on us!
Proportions can be such a helpful tool. Sometimes it seems to make such a difference, and other times it really depends on the entire outfit.
I love that you tried buttoning and belting the cardigan. Sure, it might look better with the bottom buttons undone, but I don’t think it’s bad this way at all. It’s good to try all the ways.
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Thanks, Jodie! I’m going to play with this look a little bit more once I get my full length mirror. It’s difficult when you can’t see yourself…hahahaha!!
I love your outfit. Also love the cardigan. Enjoy you weekend.
Annie,
Annies Food Diary
Thank you so much, Annie! I hope your weekend is wonderful!!
Oooh Marsha, I really like this outfit! That skirt is stunning and the berry color of your cardigan looks fabulous on you. I actually prefer this outfit unbelted. As much as I love belting things to change proportions, I always struggle with belts on top of blazers, cardigans, or wraps. It rarely works on my body shape. I am a big advocate for the rule of thirds. In fact, when something looks off and I can’t figure out what it is, it usually ends up being my proportions. And the 1/3-2/3 split really does look best on every person! Great post and gorgeous outfit, my friend!
Shelbee
Thanks, Shelbee! I think the unbelted cardigan look is more me and definitely more comfortable in the sense I’m not constantly adjusting things! It’s funny how I’ve used that 1/3-2/3 rule all my adult life but never even realized it!
I think these proportions work for you. I love the bright color of the sweater. Also, you’re using the “column of color” fashion tool with your shirt and skirt forming a monochromatic unit. And the boots are fabulous under the maxi skirt!
Carol
http://www.scribblingboomer.com
Thanks so much, Carol! I didn’t even realize the column of color until you mentioned it! I do love these boots and would love them in teal, but I don’t really need them (or do I)!
I think by belting the skirt and leaving the cardigan open you are defining your waist but still covering up with your cardigan if you want to camouflage anything. It’s a really cute and flattering outfit on you!
Thanks, Laura! I am torn because, with the cardigan open, my bosom is on full display! But, with the cardigan belted, my zucchini shape is on display!! Oh, well!
Such a beautiful outfit, Marsha! That skirt is yummy. The berry colored cardigan is the perfect choice. I think I probably would have tried black first too. But I can see how it would overwhelm the delicate print of the skirt. “Proportionizing!” A term I hadn’t heard before. I love it!
Michelle
https://mybijoulifeonline.com
Thanks, Michelle! I thought the black would be perfect…until I put it on! But, the berry colored cardigan was perfect. I think I probably have a shorter one, too! I didn’t realize proportionizing was a real word until I googled it! I just figured Eureka had made it up!
Marsha, I am in love with those boots! So cute and perfect for fall. You had me cracking up with your zucchini body phrase. I think you just made your own catchphrase! So many of us ladies can relate. Good choice on the cardigan, I love the pop of color. Have a great weekend.
Thanks, Meagan! Are these boots not the best? And, they’re comfortable to boot (pardon that awful pun)! Well, I’m hoping to shed the zucchini catchphrase in the coming months! I was thrilled with the way the cardigan went with the skirt…now, to find a shorter version!
Followed the link to check out the details of that gorgeous skirt. Love the little bit of ruffle or hem that peeks from beneath the printed fabric. The pattern reminds me of voile. Of Revolutionary Era wallpaper and fine China. So delicate. Great idea to add that berry cardigan for pop. Always envious of your great accessories.
I haven’t watched RuPaul’s Drag Race but I am sure I’m missing a good time. And some fashion tips, apparently, too. I have not heard the word proportionizing but often replay in my head a post Jodie wrote about the rule of thirds. And mixing loose fitting tops with tighter bottoms, vice versa. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and style suggestions!!
Thanks, Leslie! Isn’t this skirt something…toile…exactly! I am a sucker for a good toile! I tried all kinds of greys with it, but none of mine worked right.
Oh, you should definitely watch Drag Race! It’s a hoot! I try to follow the rule of thirds, but when you’re short, it’s difficult!
Your skirt is gorgeous, and I love the contrast of the bold cardigan paired with it! Also, those boots are fabulous!
Jill – Doused in Pink
Thanks, Jill! I really like all of the components of this outfit, but I think I need to tweak it a bit. These boots are just as comfortable as they are gorgeous!
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