The One-Shoulder Look

You’ve always been a stunning goddess and the warm spring season is the perfect time to show off your style!

Runways and luxury department stores are raving about this classic trend that is flattering on every figure: the one-shoulder look. It’s been around forever, so what makes it new for this season? When and how you wear it.

Traditionally saved for cocktail hours and romantic nights, the one-shoulder look is making appearances earlier and earlier in the day with updated styling – and why not? The Grecian-inspired look is both sophisticated and sexy – showing a little skin, but not too much.

Here are some fresh ways to update Greek Chic:

• Look for ruffled detailing. This is a simple, feminine update to the one-shoulder look.

• Accessorize with a belt. Not only will this give you a more defined waist, but it gives you the option to mix-and-match for endless looks. Don’t have a great belt? Use a light scarf. I like to wrap my smaller, thin, silk scarves around my waist when I’m tired of my belt collection. Just tuck the loose ends in to secure the look.

• Instead of saving the style for nighttime, wear a one-shoulder blouse during the day. Keep it work-appropriate with tailored dress pants and basic pumps, or take it day-to-night with a tapered blazer that slips off for cocktail hour.

• Need some cover-up ideas in case of a breeze? Take a tip from Mary Kate Olsen who pairs her sleek, black one-shoulder dress with a loose, vibrant cardigan. Or do the opposite and wear a draped one-shoulder piece with a structured boyfriend blazer.

• The one-shoulder look is not just for tops and dresses anymore! Try a bathing suit in this style and all eyes will be on you. Just remember to wear plenty of sunscreen to avoid uneven tan lines.

• The one-shoulder look is meant to show off your delicate collar bone so don't cover it up with an overpowering necklace! Instead, opt for a very delicate chain, elegant earrings or bangles.

Feeling really daring? How about making a Grecian dress yourself? The shape is basic enough for even the most inexperienced sewers to take on. If you are just starting out, pick medium-weight fabrics such as cotton knits or polyester blend that is easier to work with than slippery silks. If you want to go eco-friendly, check out organic cotton or bamboo. Most fabric stores are starting to carry them, and they feel absolutely amazing!

As for patterns, there are some very simple and inexpensive ones available through your local fabric store, craft store, or even online for purchase and download. You can even make your own on tissue paper using a dress or top that fits you perfectly as the base, then just altering the new pattern by cutting out one shoulder from the neckline to the bottom of the armhole. Once you master the basic shape, you have many creative options: add longer drapes, ruffles or poufs of fabric at the shoulder, or experiment with cinched waists, different strap angles, or asymmetrical or bubble hems.

So get creative, be bold and let your inner goddess shine!