When people go under the knife in a cosmetic surgery clinic, it’s generally to enhance their looks. However, the amount of victimized people who are faced with permanent disfigurement after putting their trust in backstreet surgeons is on the rise.

By visiting an unqualified and uncertified backstreet surgeon, you’re putting yourself in real danger. Although a lot of people might visit these makeshift surgeries because they’re seemingly cheaper than visiting a qualified surgeon, when you consider the risks you could actually end up paying a lot more—your health, your sanity, possibly even your life! 

When you visit a qualified surgeon in an authorized clinic, you can be sure that your safety is the most important thing to them. Not only are you safe, but your money is also safe. If you’re one of the unfortunate few who visits a qualified, certified surgeon but the surgery still goes wrong, your surgeon will do everything they can to make it right.

Choosing the right surgeon:

*  You should never opt for a surgeon because they’re the cheapest.

* Always attend consultations with more than one surgeon to ensure that the one you choose really is the right person to perform your surgery.

*  Ensure that any surgeon that you visit has the relevant experience and qualifications to perform your surgery and you should also ask for proof of these qualifications. 

*  Ask whether the surgeon has any recommendations or testimonials from other patients that he can show you.

*  Your surgeon should talk you through all of the risks involved with surgery as well as giving you all the pre-operative advice you need.

You should never trust a surgeon who doesn’t give you this information, regardless of how well qualified they say they are.

Plastic surgery disasters do happen; don’t let yourself become one! By using a qualified surgeon, you will have the best outcome for success. 

Here in New England, coats are worn for at least 6 months of the year. Often, it’s the only thing that people see. When you consider that, coats start to seem pretty important…

I prefer a 3-Season coat, because it’s the most useful and the best return on your investment. It will work most any day, except for the coldest and snowiest. Look for a coat that’s wool or a wool/cashmere blend, with a V-neck collar, that is fully lined. The seams should all be double-stitched to prevent tearing and be fully symmetrical. The buttons should be securely fastened, with no hanging threads. A good coat will include replacement buttons, which you will definitely need if you keep it long enough. I prefer a coat that hits above the knee, but length is personal preference.

I prefer single-breasted coats. Double-breasted tend to add a lot of weight, on every body shape.

Remember the 2001 Inauguration? The Bushes, in single-breasted coats, look so much leaner than the Clintons. Hillary, in particular, looked so much larger than she really was. This picture is also proof that black isn’t always the most slimming color.

Coats really shouldn’t be bought online. For the best sizing, you’ll need to try on a variety. Coats should be bought one size larger than you are. It’s better to buy a little big than a little snug. It must button comfortably, even over a heavy sweater. If you’re a Petite like me, the sleeves will invariably be too long. This problem is easily—and cheaply—resolved by any tailor. Don’t run around all winter in too-long, sloppy sleeves.

High quality coats are an investment that can last for several years (I’ve kept a coat up to a decade with proper care). These coats are usually made by higher-end manufacturers and do cost a bit more money, usually around $200 minimum, but it’s so worth it! If you average out the cost per wear, it amounts to mere pennies. I’ve found the best deals and selection at Macy’s. My favorite brand is Anne Klein.

Most Flattering:

A simple black coat is your best choice for daily use, especially if you can only afford one. My only complaint about black wool is that it attracts lint like crazy and needs constant rolling. Other than that, it’s perfect! It coordinates with any outfit you own. If you don’t like black, get any neutral color, like beige.

I have a beige, belted coat that I adore and wear constantly, in addition to my black coat. I only own 2 coats, but if you can afford it and like them, buy more. For extra pizzazz, put a pin on the lapel.

Least Flattering:

A short, double-breasted oversized coat in a crazy color. The lady in the picture above looks like she’s drowning in fabric and the color is very limiting. Other coats to avoid include:

Anything with huge, outside pockets and/or flaps. Look for coats with internal, pockets only to minimize bulk.

Fake Fur  (unless you want to be human road kill…)

Prints  (Almost never mix-and-match and often downright ugly)

Metallics (You will resemble a roll of tinfoil—not exactly a flattering look.)

How many coats do you own?

Formerly utilitarian, now they’re strictly a statement piece. So, are belts even necessary? Not at all! But if you like them, they can be a great accessory. I have mixed feelings on belts and only wear them occasionally. When done right, the look is awesome, so I do think they’re worth trying. (If you never wear belts, I recommend removing the loops from pants.) If you’re large in the midsection, I’d skip belts completely. After all, you don’t want to highlight an area that makes you uncomfortable. Belts look best on Hourglass and thin builds.

When buying a belt, the considerations are size, color, and material.

Size:

The proper fit for a belt is at the natural waist. It should define without pinching. The fabric underneath should not be bunched. Belts that come in S/M/L have the most give. If you buy a numbered belt, buy the next size up to take clothing into account (A 28 waist would buy a size 30 belt and so on). Be careful with the buckle. Big buckles can be distracting. If you wear mostly gold, get a gold buckle and vice versa for silver enthusiasts.

Material:

A real leather belt is the nicest. I’m not against synthetics, but some are total garbage. Use your own good judgment. Chain belts made of metal are very cute with jeans. Fabric belts are nice tied over a maxi dress. Elastic belts are the most forgiving. I’m not into braided belts at all.

Color:

Black or brown belts give the most mileage. A colorful belt can be cute, but it attracts a lot of attention and can be limiting if you like Mix-and-Match outfits.

Wide belt:

I wouldn’t wear the dress pictured above, but you can see how a wide belt pairs perfectly with it. I like to wear a wide belt with a tucked-in top and a pleated skirt. Wide belts are not as good with pants, but they do work with certain outfits, like a V-neck top and skinnies. If you’re going wide, get one made from elastic rather than leather. Huge leather belts look bad and pleather look infinitely worse! Be reasonable on size, this isn’t the WWE.

Thin belt:

Pairs equally well for pants, skirts, and dresses. If you’re belt-shy, start with a skinny belt.

Chain belt:

Look for something with small links, or it’s complete overkill. Try to match the metal with any other jewelry you’re wearing for a cohesive look. A belt this eye catching works with just earrings. Don’t add a necklace, pins, etc when wearing a chain belt.

Belts to avoid:

Big symbol buckles  (are you in the Rodeo? Didn’t think so…)

Anything with sequins

Animal prints  (I’m not against all animal prints, but it should be done in small doses only)

Do you wear belts?

Sweaters are my favorite top to wear. Ones that are lightweight can be suitable year-round. They are easy to fit and unbelievably comfortable. The only areas that need special attention are the arm holes and sleeves. Make sure there isn’t fabric bunched under the arm (if there is, you’re wearing a size too large). As for sleeves, if you’re a human T-Rex like me, buy petite. If you find a sweater you love, but the sleeves are slightly too long, don’t be afraid to cuff. 3/4 sleeves are universally flattering. I find the best deals on sweater at the Banana Republic Factory outlet.

Cashmere sweaters are the most luxurious. They’re also very expensive and fussy to care for. If you’re not willing to commit to dry cleaning and hand washing, skip these and go for 100% cotton. Sweaters should be air dried if possible, so they don’t fade or shrink. Wool is extra-warm for winter, but many people can’t tolerate it. I avoid anything with angora (rabbit fur). That stuff itches like crazy and sheds.

Most flattering:

A V-neck sweater should be #1 on your list. The fit should be snug, but not lewd. This is a sleek look worn alone or perfect for layering. Black is a must, plus any additional colors you like. I love purple, teal, gray, etc. Add a pin for extra oomph.

Least flattering:

A cowl neck sweater would be my last choice. The extra fabric never falls correctly and always looks sloppy. These add weight like nothing else! If you do wear these, make sure to pair it with slim-fit pants.

Cardigans:

I love these, especially when paired with a lace-trim camisole. Button-up or open style can both be flattering. Some people belt an open-front cardigan, but I think that defeats the purpose. When it comes to button-up cardigans, if you love the sweater, but hate the buttons, replace them! I’ve done this before, swapping out some hideous gold buttons for plain black. It’s not a hard project, even for those who can’t sew.

Turtlenecks:

Turtlenecks tend to be a love-or-hate item for most ladies. If you hate them, it’s usually because of a too-tight neck. Look for a mock turtle neck instead. I have a mock neck, 3/4 sleeve turtleneck sweater that I love. It pairs beautifully with a pleated skirt. (Remember: pair one snug item with one flowy item).

Sweaters to avoid:

Holiday  (these are just god-awful…)

Huge, shapeless monstrosities  (self-explanatory)

Asymmetrical neckline   (makes shoulders look like a linebacker)

Novelty (no animals, celebs, or foods, if you don’t want to be a human cartoon)

How many sweaters do you own?