Me and Clinton

Clinton, "That's a cute outfit." Me, "Thanks, I'm a stylist here in Nashville so coming from you that's quite a compliment." Clinton, "That's why you look like you know what your doing!" That was my oh so brief conversation with Clinton Kelly from What Not To Wear. He gave a short talk on style and fit and was the commentator for a Petite fashion show at Macy's. He's a funny guy and his new book Freakin' Fabulous is funny and informative. Watch out for the sexual innuendos and drinking jokes though. It also goes over etiquette and manners which I thought were pretty helpful. So, you heard it here, Clinton thinks I know what I'm doing. What other reference do you need?! Anyway, it may be a good Christmas gift for a fashion junkie in your home! I have just a few holiday tips to pass on this week. With all the red and green decorations at this time of year, why not stand out and go with totally different colors? Give the snowman sweater to your mother, or better yet, make a pillowout of it, but don't wear it. Last night to an event I wore silver/gray shaded jeans and a cream colored ruffle sleeveless top. The colors worked nicely together and to add a bit of cuteness I bought gray satin ribbon, 1 3/4" wide and pulled it through the belt loops and tied it in a bow. Pretty cute. Also, black heels even though it was freezing! It wasn't so bad and they did make a statement. Remember this, sometimes you have to suffer to be cute! Don't take it to an extreme but for a nice Christmas dinner, leave the Uggs and wool sweater at home. I'd rather be over than under dressed anytime. Don't save your pretty sequined and beaded tops for a cocktail party, use them with jeans or cute chinos (think J Crew) and heels. The sparkle of great jewelry or sequins and beads on your top will be partyish enough to forgo red and green. If you still want Christmas colors, use them as an accent (scarf, shoes, jewelry etc.). Another option is to wear a cute black party skirt, a poppy or tangerine colored tank with a cardigan of a similar shade and flats. Too cute!! I'll post more holiday thoughts later. Also, please forgive the odd placement of these photos, I haven't gotten layout down yet! The brunette in the top picture is my sister. Hey Trese! See you soon and call for any holiday diliemas!

Mix It, Break It, Don't Match It!

Today I am rambling about a few styling questions that I know some struggle with. A wonderful thing that is happening with choosing outfits lately is to mix fabrics, textures, patterns, colors, etc. Although even for the most confident fashion follower, mixing plaids for instance, is a perplexing task, there are some ways to simplify; make sure color palettes are the same, do a very large window pane plaid with a very small micro-check, or use a smaller accessory like a scarf, belt, or even a shoe to pair with the dominant plaid on top. It can be tricky but can be done. The easier and more popular mixing I've seen in the past several months is mixing color combos. Almost anything goes. Red/pink, navy/black, brown/purple, orange/maroon, and lots of others. It looks hip, modern, and oh so stylish! Also, that great black suit you have and save for important meetings is not being used to it's full potential if you don't mx the blazer with a nice pair of jeans and a sharp blouse out to dinner. Or wear a beautiful lightweight short sleeve blouse with a wool pencil skirt in a herringbone pattern. Don't be shy, mix it up. And next, there are a few fashion rules you need to start breaking. One is, wear white! All year! All shades! Just a little common sense applies here, keep the weight of the fabric suitable to the season. A white seersucker jacket needs to be saved for summer and your wool white pants for winter. Cashmere in white is a gorgeous fabric to use almost all year and much lighter weight versions are everywhere. A second rule to tear into is a bit of shine for the day. Don't save your knit top with an embellished neckline or cute jacket with a gold shimmer for nighttime. Your shoes may even have some sparkle and still be fine for before five. Wear them with toned down pieces and you will be just fine. A third rule that is harder for some is to lose your overwhelming mu mus that hide your womanly shape. Contrary to what you believe, all that extra fabric does more than hide a bulge or two, it visually adds pounds. Buy clothes that fit properly and fabrics that skim the body. And finally, although a black top and bottom or a nice gray sweater, pants, and shoes can make an impressive statement, matching everything can become quite dated. In fact a big "don't" is matching shoes, belts, handbag, jewelry, etc. Matching your animal print purse, to your shoes, to your skirt and so on is just plain wrong! So, sometimes, when you're in the mood, mix it, break it, but don't be matchy matchy! As always, call me for any fashion or style needs. Have a great week!

Too Snooty? Too Expensive? Which One?

Let me just say from the start, if you looking for a stylist, of course I should be your choice! Now that that's out of the way, lets answer some of the title's questions and be a bit more objective. Are you being a snob by using a stylist? No. If you recognize that you look dated, you hate to shop, you think nothing fits, don't keep up with styles, or don't have time, you are being smart by asking for help. The same way a person would use an interior designer or a professional photographer. If it is embarrassing to you, the process can be and should be done very discreetly. Secondly, is it too expensive? Well, that depends. If you are barely making your house payments, have lots of debt, and your utilities have been turned off then, buy a fashion magazine, go to Target and copy the looks! If you are doing better than that then you could probably afford an hour or two consultation/ shopping with some freelance stylists. Ask questions, how can I maximize my dollar? Tell the consultant, "I want to shop at Target or Gap sale items, not BCBG or Jamies". Ask if you can dictate the time spent, time = money. A well known, industry stylist will charge more than others. Thirdly, which stylist do you choose? Talk to two or three. You will probably connect better with one. Can they tell you where to go to find the look you are trying to achieve or better yet, will they be honest and tell you if it isn't right for you? Do they even know what and where BCBG or Jamies is and can they find similar looks at discount prices if that is your goal? If stores such as Jaimies and Posh are where you like to shop, does your consultant feel comfortable at those retailers? Does the stylist have the ability to determine what looks best on your body type? Can you find some information on their background, experience, degrees, and do they have references? A great ad and fun personality are certainly worth noticing but go a little farther to be sure. Lastly, try and make sure you will enjoy the process and end up happy with the experience.

The Process

I realized several days ago I had never blogged about the actual details of my services so, here are the details..... When a client contacts me it usually involves 2 meetings, the first is a consultation consisting of a brief questionnaire about shopping habits, sizes, likes/dislikes, and needs/goals. Also, at that time we can do a closet edit. This involves literally going through a client's closet and evaluating whether something fits correctly, is outdated, too worn, etc. Most clients enjoy a second opinion and a fresh look at their wardrobe but not all choose to do this. We end this meeting with a list of wants and needs for me to look for, a budget, and a day for me and the client to shop together. After a date is decided upon, I will go the day before to 2 or 3 stores that I determine will best accommodate the needs discussed and pull items and put them on hold. The next day, the client and I have our second meeting which is trying on the items I've put on hold. Of course, all of this can be tweaked some to fit each individual person. For instance, if there is a particular boutique that is a favorite, I would certainly try and find something in there. Or if we are short on time, my shopping day alone and the try-on day could possibly be done the same day. Shopping for someone without a consultation is pretty tricky and I don't recommend it. The plan for 2009 is to have a package deal including consultation and a shopping trip together the same day. Some people like getting it all done and some get burned out doing it all at one time. Of course, previous clients have the good fortune of having the consultation already done, we just address that season or event. I hope this information helps clear up any questions anyone may have. I work hard to provide an experience that favors each client, is conscious of how their money is spent, and in the end is enjoyable and makes the client look their best. If you can use any of these services, I'd like to help. Thanks for reading....

Dressed up at the Parthenon

This picture goes with the blog below. The middle sister mentioned is the brunette in black, mom is next, older sister, me, and my cute, pregnant niece. I believe I could have stood a tad bit more ladylike! We had a fun time but it was so hot we were all wilted by the time we left!

Stylish Behavior and Sisterly Sarcasm

The other night I had the opportunity to attend a fundraiser at the Parthenon for the Rape and Sexual Abuse Center. You know, heels, hair, fancy people, dinner and dancing, etc. the whole shebang. I was with my 2 sisters, my mom, and my niece. On the way home my middle sister commented on how polite I had been. Now, let me explain here, we are jokingly sarcastic with a touch of truth with each other, all done in fun and love of course (I am winking)! I responded saying it was because I was dressed up. Yes, I know, that means I agreed with her. It is hard to be silly and crazy acting when you are concentrating on walking up the HUGE Parthenon steps in 3 inch heels. So, the question is, does the way we dress affect the way we behave. You know proponents for school uniforms certainly think so. I think I agree. Jeans and flats will definitely make most people feel more comfortable, more at ease, than heels and a cocktail dress. Think of the What Not to Wear candidates, they certainly carry themselves with more confidence and a realization that others are noticing them than they do on their secret tape. So, I think the moral of my blog is this, when you take care with the way you dress, not only others notice you but you will take more pride in yourself. It's a long shot but, maybe stylish dressing will lead to a kinder, gentler world! What a hoot! Let's go dress up Iran!!! Talk to you soon and call me for all your wardrobe needs and wishes! Have a great day.....

Fun Job

I'm with the band! On the job as stylist for the band On Tracy Lane. My niece is the cutie in white on the end (female!) although the one on the other end is a cutie too! Great band, great time. Thanks guys.

A Great Store

I am going to tell you about my new favorite store. It has been here maybe close to a year but I just went this summer. It is UAL, United Apparel Liquidators (I think that's the full name). It is on West End Blvd. where years ago Vandyland used to be. It is south of Centennial Park and Scarlett Begonia, another cool store. Anyway, look up or google the correct address, the clothes are what's important! In a warehouse type, large room, they have racks and racks of clothing you will not find anywhere else. They carry stock overruns, samples, last season, and store sell offs. The front of the store has several round racks of couture pieces. If you've never seen a piece from Prada, D&G, Lanvin, Vera Wang and others then this is wear to find them, at around 70% off, sometimes more. A $600.00 dollar Prada blouse is now much more reasonable at $100-$150 dollars. If that is still too much, keep going back to the racks with designers you haven't heard of, for anywhere from $9.99 to $49.99. What a deal! And no one else will have it on! These pieces will also generally be well made and sewn from good fabric. There are gowns, shoes, bags, belts, and a small section for men. Jeans for $19.99. I love this place! I got a silk skirt for $9.99, how great is that? Anyway, check it out, you'll be glad you did. But if you just don't want to, call me and I'll go for you!!! Thanks for reading.....

Ready to get into Fall!

It's been a whole month since I've expressed my all important views on style and fashion.........just kidding!   It has been a whole month though.  During that time I've worked with several clients including the band On Tracy Lane.  We had a great time at the photo shoot getting to know the guys and hopefully I'll have pictures to put up soon.  But, onto fashion musings. I'd like to address this message to the women in the 40+  range.  As with everyone, your body type needs to be honestly and objectively evaluated.  The added bump in the road for those over 40 is "can I wear this at my age?"  What we want are to be modern, stylish, and to look good!  It is possible with some time, investigating, and the will to change if needed.  Some advice I would offer is to get a fresh opinion of your hairstyle.  If your stylist doesn't suggest changes and options, see someone else for a change.  You don't have to stay with her, just see if you like the cut she gives you and your stylist can follow  what she did.  I know it's not always that easy, but sometimes it is!  After that, spend some time in stores and departments where you don't normally shop.  Try some things on that you do not consider "you".  If you've got great legs, wear your hem a 2 or 3 inches above the knee, just not 5 or 6!  Of course, lose the "mom" jeans.  Try a designer pair like Joe's Jeans or a different style, maybe high rise or skinny.  Get a pair of sharp boots or maybe a great leather jacket with some motorcycle details. Don't save your dressy tops and sweaters for dressy events,  wear them to dinner or a movie. Find looks you admire in fashion magazines and copy them. Remember, 4o is a number, not a signal to lose your sense of self. It all begins with how you feel about your appearance. See ya later!

Seasons

Well, I have been gone awhile again, out of town with my family. And when I returned, it was beginning to happen. The subtle change in clothing collections to darker colors. The start of the fall pieces coming into stores. The August magazine layouts will be all about autumn. Holidays have in recent years been introduced in stores earlier and earlier, but fashion has always been several weeks to months ahead of the season. That is because way ahead of the actual season, fabrics have to be chosen, patterns and styles decided upon, orders taken at market, and garments produced and delivered to retailers. Buyers place orders 5 to 6 months before delivery, that means fall orders were placed around April. Fashion also has more than four seasons; winter, cruise, spring, summer and fall. There may be one in between summer and fall (I can't remember) and there is a always a holiday collection. Cruise is mid-January through February. That's why most department stores will have a small area for bathing suits and nautical type pieces after the New Year. These "rules" have been in place for forever. So, while we're still wearing our white eyelet and sandals, somewhere designers are drawing and coming up with what we'll be buying next spring. It's a crazy world in fashion, but I love it! Enjoy the summer sales!

Little Things Matter

As with your children, a party, friends, decorating your home, etc., in fashion, little things make a difference. The other morning I was putting on a sheer top with a cami under it and the cami had a split in the side seam. I knew it was there but had continued to wear it under tops that hid the tear. When I looked in the mirror, I realized it was showing, looked bad, and needed to be fixed or taken off. I ran upstairs to my sewing machine and grabbed a needle and thread, turned the cami up to my waist and stitched it up. It looked 100% better and I didn't have to change. The way some might have to dash out and get flowers for the table, do that special little bedtime routine for your 4 yr. old, or have the perfect wine for dinner, you also need to put that extra touch into your clothing. Actually, stitching a tear isn't a special touch, just following good style rules: no tears, stains, or ill-fitting clothing. But, it was a little thing and it did matter. If your shoes are scuffed, polish them, if your under things are all stretched out, get some that aren't, if your blouse is stained, launder it. Most fixes are easy and cheap and definitely worth it. Remember, the little things matter, in all aspect of our lives. Sorry I've been gone awhile, I won't be away so long next time. So,til then, have fun, be kind, and dress well!

What Style Are You?

I met with a magazine employee the other day and we were discussing the many facets of women. The topic turned to style and helping women discover what they felt and looked best wearing. I told her, as I realized a long while ago, I don't have a particular style. I may be a little bold in my outfits at times but I love different looks. I also appreciate someone creative enough to have a "look" and cause me to take a second look even if I don't like it. A classic Audrey Hepburn look will always be in, right for an event, and ageless. The RL Polo preppy style which J. Crew, Gap and others emulate well, is another wonderful timeless clothing choice. A not so timeless look, but very in now are 70's inspired or boho pieces. If you have an outdoor event a maxi would be perfect to wear now. Wide leg jeans come under the 70's category too. Sometimes I like to put on a kind of rock 'n roll outfit with skinny jeans, gladiator heels and a cool top. I love color and Pucci inspired prints, ribbed tanks with walking shorts and flats, 50's dresses with gathered skirts and pumps (think Sarah Jessica Parker), and the list goes on. Many of my friends do have their style and colors they stick to and I don't think they should change too much, it's who they are, but I like to think that others of us are multi-layered in our dress and personality. We like to mix it up a bit, keep people wondering, change with our mood, and have a few surprises up our sleeve. Doesn't that make our lives a little more interesting? And what better way to portray those differences than with our clothing?! Have fun out there! Remember, what others see is their first impression of you. Always,

Fit, Fit, Fit, Fit, Fit.....

No don't throw one, just make sure everything fits and lays appropriately. Sometimes in the dressing room in the midst of trying to find that great outfit, you will rationalize that when it's ironed it will lay right, or at home you can pin that gap, or if you wear a cami or the right underwear it really does fit. Sometimes all that is true, often it is not. If you are tugging or having to suck in your stomach in the dressing room, chances are it does not fit. Learn to let disappointment over one outfit motivate you to find the better one somewhere else. Rarely does a garment look on the average person the way it does on a mannequin or in a magazine. But the fun challenge is to take the "look" and translate it to your body type. Usually some part of the outfit you see advertised can be used in a style that works for you. Again, it can be a challenge but when it comes together you look great! As always, I can help so please call because I love my job! Until next time,

"The List"

Today there won't be a topic. I am going to give you an all important list to get you through all seasons. What is best for your body type, the hard, cold facts! Here we go (in no particular order):

• shoes are important, style, color and condition
• curlier hair adds pounds, straighter hair elongates
• panty lines are never appropriate
• bigger clothes just make you look bigger, they don't hide
• corporate climate has generally loosened some but professionalism and modesty still take priority,although with accents, color, and fit you can still look modern
• shoes and bags don't have to match anymore
• don't let size dictate your purchases, you may need to go up or down, everyone does, it depends on brand and designer
• if you have wide hips, balance by bringing focus to collarbone and shoulders
• don't wear faded, stained, or torn clothing, it is a reflection of you
• to disguise a tummy, wear a flowy top that ends right past the hip bone, a longer shirred top, an A-line skirt, but beware the maternity look
• most women look best with their hem just above the kneecap, maybe and inch or so up or down; although much shorter women need to show more leg; age and height should dictate
• if you are wearing a body hugging dress, invest in an undergarment that shapes you
• find a good tailor, most people will need one at some point
• dress the body you have now, not will or did have

Okay, I'll stop for now. I'll have more later. Talk to you soon!

Reflections on a Closet

I started on my hands and knees on the floor. I found a pair of Target flipflops and boots that were way old and didn't even fit anymore! As you can see, sometimes it's do as I say, not as I do. There is no excuse for my closet to be in the shape it was, although, I keep telling my husband it's too small so how could I help it!? So, is the closet a reflection of me, my life. Yeah, I think it was. There was stuff (not just clothes) not needed anymore, it was not terribly organized, winter was not put away yet (but certainly not wearing!), impulse pieces, etc. So, the other day, in I went and put some order to my clothing. A stylist should do as she says! Now, it's mostly good, bags of items have gone to Goodwill, shoes are in order, sweaters folded and packed, and only things I love and that fit are at home in my small closet. How's yours doing? Does the clothing represent body issues, disorganization, life baggage? If it does, don't feel alone and feel that it is hopeless. It's not. You've heard the rules before, if you haven't worn it in....you just need someone to cheer and guide you through the process. There are very easy and simple ways to clean out and fill in with what makes you look and feel like you. Who you are and want to be. Call me, I've been there and I'll help. Thanks and have a great weekend!

Proportion and Such

Hello, it's been awhile!!!! To my 8 readers (just kidding) i'm sorry it's been so long. Today I just wanted to ramble a minute about length and height, heavy and light, wide and skinny etc. For instance, if you have chosen a great billowy top, belted or not, the bottom half of the outfit should be fitted or body skimming. A flounced or gored skirt won't work, there will be a balloon effect. The opposite is also true, if your top is very form fitting then a wide leg pant or fuller skirt will look just right. If you are lucky enough to be tall and slender, fitted top to bottom is fine. If you happen to be under around 5'6 or so, you will need to be aware of your skirt, shorts and pant lengths. Your skirts do not generally need to be below your knee, a tad above or depending on your age, go shorter. Cropped pants are tricky too, make sure enough calf is showing or your legs will look chopped. Shorts will follow the same rule as skirts. Jewelry falls into this category also. If you have one piece that really stands out, it is bold, colorful, heavy, lots of metal, heavily gemmed, etc., don't make it fight for notice. The other pieces need to be kept simple. And sometimes a "fierce" pair of shoes will be all you need! What you can do this spring is mix textures, subtle patterns, colors, and dressy pieces with more casual items. Remember also the rule, just because it's your size doesn't' mean it fits! Call me for help with all this and more. Thanks and have a wonderful weekend..... Blame all typos on my cat!

Observations

I learn so much when I go out of town. It is a great people watching opportunity. These are some "styles" I saw: Knee length leopard coat and pants, in Tampa, around 80 degrees; long bleach blond hair, large bust with a TIGHT white top, white short shorts, heels, hot pink lipstick, and around 55 years old; bathing suits way too small; and of course jeans, too short, too tight, too low, pleated waists and straight legs. Some would say they're happy with the way they look. I agree, don't change because some magazine tells you to, but there is a difference in being secure in your body and style and looking ridiculous. On the other hand, there were women and men of all shapes and sizes with great spring looks; bermuda shorts, flats, and flowy tops, straight jeans and colorful heels, wonderful warm weather dresses. I love spring, it is a wonderful time to spruce up your look. Again, there are some great deals at the stores now so take an afternoon or evening and cruise the sale racks. And of course, the new summer looks are all over the place with color, texture, and design. Get in touch and let me work with you to feel and look great this summer!

Good Info

There are several magazines out now that I think have some very informative articles. The first is Allure. The whole publication (I think) is dedicated to skin care and anti-aging products. Skin care stuff can get so overwhelming and pretty repetitive but this magazine has done a good job of listing over-the-counter products and prescription recommendations. The second is this months' In Style. It is all about color and what skin tones look good in which shades. Plus, tons of good outfit ideas. Just remember, the color section is guide, not the last word on what would look good on you. A third one that I enjoy looking at is Lucky. It is not geared toward women over age 40 but younger women can get some funky ideas from the outfit selections. Of course to get the latest take on runway fashions, Vogue should be your choice. And finally, to be informed on all the fashion industry news and looks for fall/winter, the publication Women's Wear Daily is the bible! Hope some of this helps, also, be checking the stores for spring sales, they will already have their really warm weather, summer looks out and be looking to move the spring items. And of course, call me to do it all for you! See ya next time......

Too Casual?

For the past several days I've been hearing and reading about this topic. A few days ago on Oprah, the rule was no gym clothes outside the gym. Well, I've seen some pretty chic looking women in their gym clothes. So, let's clarify. We'll start with the don'ts....sweats, sweatshirts, colored ankle socks; short shorts; ratty t-shirts; and old beat up tennis shoes just to name a few. Sorry, but these are never ok except to paint your house! We all know that sometimes you've changed from work into casual clothes or forgotten about an errand you need to run and are certainly not going to "dress" for it. But, beware of what's easiest. If you don't want to see someone you know looking like you do, don't wear it! Black stretch workout pants or capris that fit are the safest, but, with no panty lines or bulges. Sorry. If those don't fit your body type then go with a pair that are less stretchy, more knit, that fit just below the belly button, not an elastic waist. An elastic waist on any pant will age you unbelievably. Pair those with a colorful, body skimming (not hugging) t-shirt and maybe a lightweight sports vest. Remember, few women can get away with a tight, stretch sports pant and look good. And finally, although I do love comfort and casual, going out for the day with some style is always my first choice. If I can help you in any way, just call!

Light, Bright, White!!!

White jeans, white jackets, white sweaters, white shirts...the list goes on. It's time to bring them out, as long as it's not a linen or light weight cotton. And...not head to toe white. Pair your white jeans on a cool day with a long sleeve top in a bright color and throw a denim jacket over it or put a black sweater on with some black flats or black cowboy boots. Nothing is more classic than a crisp white blouse and khakis or jeans. Put on a pair of brown or tan mules with a bit of a heel or a driving loafer. If you are a bit younger, wear a ribbed tank in a bright color or a white t-shirt under a white 3/4 sleeve jacket and a pair of slim jeans, too cute! There are a ton of things you can do with white pieces. Find a look you like in a magazine and find similar pieces where you shop and you have your outfit, just make sure it fits! Or better yet, show me a look and I'll find it for you! How easy is that? I'll be waiting for your call~~

Ready for Monday?

I hope everyone enjoyed the beautiful weekend we had here in Nashville. But, Mondays must come and with that everyday clothing choices, especially if you have a job out of the home. This usually means not as laid back and unimportant as the weekend. Everyday you present yourself to those around you and like it or not, the way you look has an impact. For this milder temperature we are having, all the 3/4 length sweaters, jackets, coats, blouses, etc. are great. The jackets especially have different cuts and the fuller swing jacket is great if you are blessed by being a little wider than you'd like. Make sure the shoulder, neckline, and across the bust fit. It is also time to start pulling in some lighter weight fabrics and put away the dark, bulky sweaters and heavy wool pants. This is particularly easy to do in this part of the country with our fairly early spring. Most likely we will have more days like today than freezing cold from now on. Hope this helps and of course contact me if you'd like help with your spring wardrobe. Thanks...

Leaving a comment...

Hey everyone, if you're having trouble leaving a comment, just click the word comment, write, and click name/url. Leave your name and ignore the url. I think it will go then. I'll be posting on "style stuff" tomorrow. Check it out!

WELCOME!!!

As I sit here contemplating this site of mine, I'm thrilled with the opportunity to talk to so many about a subject I love.....what to wear, when to wear it, where to get it, what color, etc.! The subject definitely has it's pros and cons and needs to be kept in perspective, but, let's face it, if you're at my site, the way you look is important to you. I hope for this to be a running dialogue about current looks, wardrobe issues, personal appearance, and of course, shopping. Hopefully, in the process, I'll be able to meet some of you and help update your style one on one. It's a fun experience and one my past clients have enjoyed. Spring is a GREAT time to start!