Real (approachable) Style Advice for Real (grown-up) Women with 

Real (smart) Budgets

Hello First name / friend,

 

They say April showers bring May flowers, so I’m choosing to be optimistic that May will bring both blooms and some warmer temps—because here in Newport, we’re still hovering in the 40s most days. I hope it’s feeling a bit more like spring wherever you are today. 🌷

 

April 12th is a special day over here: it’s the day back in 1991 that Bill and I first met in a bar in Hoboken, NJ (we were both living there at the time, though somehow hadn’t crossed paths before). Ironically, it was also the night before he moved to Boston. Needless to say, we hit it off—and six months later, I moved to Boston too. The rest, as they say, is history. 

 

Moral of the story? You never know who you might meet in a bar, coffee shop, or grocery store… a great reason to #justgetdressed, ha! 😉

 

But there’s more. April 12th also marks the 15th anniversary of Bill’s successful kidney transplant—a day that forever changed our lives. His donor, Eddie, stepped forward when we barely knew him, and his selfless act gave Bill a new lease on life—not to mention what he gave me and our three sons.  How do you ever thank someone for the gift of life? And while we are grateful to Eddie every single day, on April 12, we say a special prayer of gratitude.

 

Bill and Eddie are getting together for their annual lunch tomorrow. Even though we no longer live in the same town, the bond we share is unbreakable.

 

So please join me in raising a glass this weekend to Eddie—a true hero in our lives. Cheers! 🥂

 

Here's pic of the guys after the surgery in 2010, and last year on April 12th 💙

And here’s a fun fact… Eddie is married to my dear friend Karen Collins, the founder and owner of Bisousweet Confections—a hugely successful wholesale bakery based in Massachusetts. Their delicious treats are distributed nationwide and can be found in Whole Foods and now BJ’s!

 

Keep an eye out for their signature goodies like linzer heart cookies ❤️, donut muffins, biscotti, and Bill’s personal favorite—WHOOPIE PIES. 😋

 

Follow them on Instagram [HERE].

Now, here's what you may have missed this week from B.Styled:

1. Spring Events are Coming – Are you Ready??

Now’s the perfect time to check your calendar, head to your closet, and plan ahead for any upcoming spring events. Whether it’s a bridal or baby shower, a graduation, a spring wedding, or just a dressy dinner out—you’ll feel so much more confident (and less stressed) if you plan your outfits now.

 

If you realize you need something new, I’ve got you covered! 💃

 

My free Occasion Dress Catalog is packed with stylish suggestions for both daytime and dressy evening events, with options at a range of price points and styles.

 

Take a few minutes to look ahead—you’ll thank yourself later! 

2. How to Choose an Occasion Dress That Fits, Flatters & Feels Fabulous

Spring events are the perfect excuse to dress up—but finding a dress that fits well, flatters your shape, and feels modern can be a challenge. Here are some tips to help you look and feel your best:

 

Solids are timeless and versatile. Neutrals like navy, black, and ivory are always chic, while bold colors like emerald or coral can make a statement.

 

Prints can be fun, but choose wisely. Opt for modern patterns—think abstract florals or geometric designs. Avoid overly busy or dated prints, which can overwhelm your frame.

 

Knee-length (or a smidge above if you like) or longer dresses are generally the most flattering.

 

Avoid hemlines that hit mid-calf, as this is where the calf naturally widens, which can create an unflattering silhouette.

Midi dresses that fall well below the knee or maxi dresses that graze the ankle are excellent choices.

 

Finding a dress that complements your body shape can enhance your confidence and comfort. Here are some guidelines:

 

 

Look for: Empire waistlines, V-necklines, and A-line skirts that flow away from the midsection. You often have great legs and arms and shorter hemlines and sleeveless tops are often fabulous on you. 

Avoid: Clingy fabrics and high necklines that draw attention to the middle and upper body.

 

Look for: Dresses that create curves, such as wrap dresses, peplum styles, and belted waists.

Avoid: Boxy or shapeless dresses that don’t define the waist. 

 

Look for: Fitted, structured dresses that highlight/skim the waist (without being tight)  like sheath or wrap dresses. V-necklines are your friend.

Avoid: Loose or boxy styles and high necklines that hide your natural curves.

 

Look for: A-line or fit-and-flare dresses that accentuate the waist and skim over the hips. If you're shoulders are narrow, add balance with shoulder details. Necklines like off-the-shoulder and bateau can add balance as well. 

Avoid: Tight skirts or dresses that cling to the lower body. If you have a small chest (common with some pears) avoid deep v-necklines and opt for crew, scoop or split necks. 

 

Look for: Dresses that add volume to the lower body, such as A-line skirts, to balance broader shoulders. Opt for wider straps with sunglasses vs. skinny straps. Halter necks create flattering angles at the shoulders and can look great on you.

Avoid: Off-the-shoulder or bateau necklines that visually widen the shoulders.

 

3. Real Answers for Your Real-Life Wardrobe Questions

‼️The Day ONE Outfit Prompt comes out tonite at 7:30pm.

Inside the Spring Style System, you’ll get access to group coaching and support where I help members navigate their unique style questions—whether it’s figuring out what silhouettes flatter your body type, how to work with your lifestyle, or how to build outfits from what you already own. I also offer individual suggestions when possible, inside the private group.

 

And if you’re facing a specific challenge—like finding the right dress for an upcoming event or needing help styling a tricky piece—my affordable Style Power Hour offers personalized, one-on-one support. This session has been transformational for so many women, helping them get on track with their wardrobes, discover the right pieces for their shape and lifestyle, and even save money by returning things that weren’t quite right.

 

As one client recently shared, “I finally feel like I know what works for me—and I’ve stopped the random shopping and wasting money on things that don't work and end up sitting in my closet. Total game-changer!”

👉And last, but not least…remember, you can find past editions of my Weekend Update Newsletter on my website….just go HERE. (www.bstyledbybeth.com)

That's it for today. Thanks for being here! 

 

Just hit reply to this email if you have any questions for me.

I love hearing from you! 

Have a great week ahead, and remember to #justgetdressed. ✅👍🏼

On Instagram @b.styled