PICKY, PICKY, PICKY

From 1st grade through almost all Sr. high school, I took the same homemade lunch to school everyday. Three peanut butter saltine crackers, two chocolate chip cookies, and probably some chips of some kind, I don't remember. I also would only eat one kind of peanut butter, Peter Pan. I had a glass of chocolate milk for breakfast, everyday. The words stubborn and picky come to mind. Unfortunately, that behavior has progressed to my sense of style as well. I have been looking for a new pair of black boots since late last winter. The right look, price, fit, heel height, etc. I am also on the look out for a new pair of regular, 5 pocket, blue jeans, since last winter. The right wash, rise, length, and fit. The words stubborn and picky come to mind, again. Is this unending search for the perfect item really necessary????? Of course not. So, recently, I have been taking my own good advice and not dismissing things at a first glance. Some restrictions will always apply; I am 5'9 so no skyscraper heels; I am 5'9 so unless it's an ankle length, the hem has to be long enough; and always price. But as far as look goes, I'm open to trying different washes, the details on denim and boots, and the height of boot shaft (the leg part). And fit, maybe a jean that looks a little tighter or a skinnier leg will work, maybe it won't, but I'm going to try. It's what I encourage my clients to do and many times with good outcomes. I'll let you know what I find.

September is here and surprisingly, some cool weather to go with it. Summer washed yellows and whites and ocean shades of blue and green give way to fall hues. Chocolate browns, the oranges and reds of maple leaves, and midnight blue to black are stocking the stores now. Are you ready? Here are some tips to refer to until autumn really hits. While we are still transitioning, use the above colors in cottons and light-weight wool or silk blends. As the days go on, wardrobe wise, your clothing choices should slowly start changing, in general, to fall shades and heavier pieces. Boots are good, some will say all year, but certainly now, with dresses and skirts for a cute, breezy fall look. If scarves have been stored for the summer heat, bring them out for cool rainy days and night time. Go with a darker nail polish to really make a statement, try deep purple or navy for a change. While summer is a time for shedding layers, opening up, and slowing down, it is inevitable that with autumn on the way, we start to close up and hurry up in several ways. Front doors will close and the firewood will come in, gardens will die down to wait for spring, and we begin to pull out the comfortable, warm clothes. Long evening walks will stop and leisurely trips to the mailbox or to walk the dog become sprints. I'm always a little sad when this begins but, like clockwork, I start to remember the joys of fall and events only experienced in the cold weather. And, on a more shallow note, if I'm going to a football game to see people I haven't seen in months, or years, then I'm going to look good while I'm there! When the invite to a bonfire at a friend's farm comes, I plan to have a great new pair of cords to wear. Take these last weeks of summer and start taking stock of fall pieces needed or desired and make a list. Then, call me and let's get to it! No, it's not all about clothes but they sure make the seasons changing more enjoyable. Thanks for reading....

GLITTER + GLAM = GAUDY?

While doing my job of scanning all the fall fashion magazine issues (so difficult),  I realized that the 80's revival is more prevalent than I realized.  I knew that the neon, harem pants, and wider shoulder theme had been around for 2 or 3 seasons now, but some designers really focused on these looks during fashion week and the fall shows.   I can embrace almost all styles, some more than others.  I like the look of high-waisted pants with a narrow hem and ankle boots.  It's sharp and edgy for the right body.  I also like a piece clothing in neon pink with the right outfit.  Marc Jacobs showed a lot of bright pink in his show.  And glitter and sparkle I really enjoy, even in the day.  But, what us regular folks have to remember is that models in fashion shows and mannequins in store windows are dressed to make a statement and sell clothes.  And, while we want to look great and even stand-out at times, we are not on display or on a runway.   My goal as a stylist is to take the best of any trend and see if it works on you while maintaining your style and anchoring the look in basic pieces.  Some trends won't work at all and some we bypass all together. I don't think I'll ever love acid washed jeans again, and yes, they are back.   The 80's fashion flashback is just that, a flashback and a trend.  These looks come and go and shouldn't be confused with the classics that most of us try to fill our wardrobe with.  So, take this trend with a grain of salt, meaning, include small bits and pieces in your wardobe but don't invest the big bucks in this look.  It shouldn't hang around for too many more seasons. Do glitter and neon equal gaudy?  No, not gaudy,  but it does require some time and effort to pull it off, and then, make sure you don't go overboard.  Enjoy these decade trends as they come along then fondly say goodbye!  Always stay on the look-out for ways to buy and add well made, solid name classics to your wardrobe when you can. I hope you have a great week, and as always, call if you need me.  

What's Your Style?

I have tried to figure out how to post pictures from the Internet onto my blog. I haven't had any success. I want to post pictures of everyday women/girls in all sorts of cute looks. You know, the ones they come up with that look effortless and right. I think I might get brave enough to just start taking them on my own (with the person's permission of course) and posting them. I love the mags that show the stylish girls on the street. I find it so interesting to know what their profession is and where their clothes came from. Was it a designer or a consignment shop? I'm also the kind that notices the clothes in movie scenes, reads the little print that tells who the designer is and the price in a magazine layout, reads fabric labels, and mentally re-dresses people in the mall I(I could sit and people watch for quite a while!). I've said before even if I don't like it, I love someone that works a "look". Whether it's boho, classic, vintage, or glamorous, if it's done right, it looks good. I think I am a variety of styles on any given day. There are certain pieces I love that I'll always use like.... my cowboy boots, casual skirts, 1 or 2 pair of great jeans, fun tops, and a variety of nice cardigans. These choices kinda land me in a more casual group. It all depends on mood, the next day I might choose a pencil skirt and pumps. What style are you? Have you bought something thinking "it's not me"? More than likely, you won't wear it if you have. I do encourage my clients to branch out, but take baby steps. There is nothing worse than buying an item and having it sit in your closet reminding you of your mistake. My best advice is, stay with-in your comfort zone but on occasion, include a really great top, shoe, skirt, or accessory you may not normally wear. Make sure it works with an outfit you already own and you will be more likely to wear it. Figure out your style by taking inventory of your wardrobe and see what category most of the pieces fall into. You probably already know. Do you lean toward the artsy, bohemian look? Or, do you have a closet full of carpi's, cardigans, and button up tops? More than likely, you also stick to one or two stores. That's a big clue to your type too. Again, all of that sameness is fine but you run the risk of becoming staid and predictable. Try and be on top of things and know when to bring in another opinion and a fresh eye. It will help in keeping clothing current and in style. You don't need to overhaul your style, it is a reflection of your personality, just weed out what doesn't work anymore and add a few things that will accentuate and keep your wardrobe fresh. Style doesn't just encompass clothing, it can refer to many aspects of your life, but the way you dress is usually what others notice first. As always, call if you need me and enjoy these last, wonderful summer days....

Have you noticed?

It's just awful. Fall is already creeping into retailers. I think (until around September) I am a true summer girl. Sandals, pink toes, shorts, sun, lightweight tops, warm nights. I love it. But, if you love clothes like me, by late August, certainly September, you will be lusting after the beautiful sweaters, cool boots, and will have to have a new pair of jeans! But, until that time, let's enjoy what we've got. Hot days and warm nights. If you are really into being in style, late this month you will want to start concentrating on bringing in the muted shades of fall. Mustard yellow, burnt orange, midnight and denim blues, deep reds, wines, and deep, dark greens. You can still pair these with whites or, go ahead and do a total fall palette but with breezy cottons and linens to keep it summer weight. Truly though, July is really time to embrace all the summer trends to their fullest. Shorts with heels, all white, red, white, and blue/nautical looks, sundresses, straw hats and bags, bright, colorful jewelry, layered tanks, and of course swimsuits. The great thing is, it's also a fantastic time to buy all of the above! Most stores have already taken good markdowns so decide what you need/want but didn't want to spend on and see if it is still available. Or, check online. Try boutiques that have to make the sale for pieces that no one else will be wearing. I haven't been to UAL lately but they are usually a good place to browse. As you are making the most of the rest of the summer, don't get lazy and think the slow pace means dumpy t-shirts and baggy shorts. Whether it's the park, grocery, movie, farmer's market (love it), or the Hill Center, if you are out among the public, make an effort. It's worth it and much more desirable to be noticed for your simple skirt, tank, and cool jewelry than your Titans (whom I love) t-shirt and crocs (also fine in the right place; must dwell on where that is). So, get out there, look cute, and don't burn! Call if you need me, thanks......

Dog Days Require White

Those of you that I have worked with have probably picked up on the fact that I love white. Pairing it with color, with black, with khaki, with more white, I just love it and the looks you can create with it go on forever. So, with the "dog days" upon us, what is going to keep you the most cool other than white, or very light colored clothing. Or of course, a pool. I guess one of the first white basics to mention would be white jeans. I like these for night when the sun isn't blazing; you can wear some great heels and a halter top, or a tunic that comes past the rear-end for a different look. A more casual approach could be to add a cute eyelet or swiss dot top cut more full with some flats. Another basic white to check into is shorts. Length may be determined by age but if you are young enough with fairly shapely legs, go for short shorts and wear flats. If you choose to be daring, wear for a wedge with maybe a rope heel; tooooo cute. For this look, keep the top more modest and not extremely tight. If you wear a walking or "city" short, go with most any top, tees work for casual, and tops that show a little skin are fun. This length takes heels well also. White skirts are always a good plan, full and flirty are also cool and you just look like you are having fun. Double up 2 different colored tanks with a beachy chain and flipflops and you're good to go. A tight pencil skirt will work for nice dinners, brunches, and can go to a wedding if your top is colorful. These also look beautiful with summer jackets and cardigans and peep toes. White cropped pants or jeans with embellished tees and cute heels (think JCrew catalog) or a cotton sun top will take you to almost any place you need to go. And of course, the white shirt/blouse; for the summer, roll up the sleeves loosely and pair it with your black skirt and pumps for work or wear one with fitted long shorts(khaki would be very safari) and flats, again, roll the sleeves. However you choose to do it, wear something white. I think my all time favorite is navy and white. It's just so cool and summery, and very appropriate for July 4th! Enjoy the rest of your June, time flies when you are stylishly dressed! Call me....

Necessary Things

It has been tooooo long!!  Kids are home from college, 2 new kittens, gardening to be done, etc.  My house is and has been a mess for about 3 weeks now.  Kittens and kids newly home at the same time are not a good idea.  But, it is a full house with basically happy sounds, so it's ok.  And the kids are certainly necessary for me, the kittens just a bonus.  Aren't they the most precious things ever?  (so mad! I am typing the rest of this for the second time, who know where it went!!)  Okay, so summer is almost upon us and the feeling is good!  I love it, sun-kissed bare skin, pedicures, light layers of jewelry, scarves, and cardigans, not wool coats and sweaters.  Another plus for many, laid back schedules and fun outdoor events.  So, there are some warm season basics everyone needs to consider to round out the summer look.  The first is a cute summer skirt.  Whether it is a floral, solid, or print, make sure it hits right around your knee (too long and it looks prairie, to short and you look like a teenager), look for one with a little fullness, and inset pockets are a fun and handy addition.  Keep the top slim with an interesting neckline or slight embellishment for fun.  Another basic I recommend is a great cardigan.  Several local stores are carrying them now, AT Loft, Gap, and J. Crew come to mind.  A great cardigan can be the focal point of your outfit with all the cute details  they have now.   Look for ruffles, tissue trim and rosettes, pearl buttons, or pretty embroidering.  Light-weight cotton, silk, or even cashmere are great choices for the summer.   Wear them with everything; jeans, shorts, skirts, sundresses, everything!  The next "must have", I have written about before.  Metallics,and they are still very much in demand.  You can go with shiny threads shot through the material or used for embroidery, get a pretty silvery belt for white jeans, or look for a cool bronze gladiator sandal.  I love bronze, it goes with everything!  And remember, you can mix metallics.  One more thing I think you need is a fun bead necklace.  It can be a long chain or chunky choker.  Look for clear beads mixed with pearl look alikes or clear colors, or wooden beads and natural stones.   Fun and hip!

Well, I had planned on writing about the dressy events you need that "go to" outfit for but I think I'll stop now since this is my second time to do this!  I'll cover that next week.  I hope your first week of June is wonderful and warm.  Thanks and as always, call if I can help.  

 

You Can Do Better Than That!

Okay, I am tired of writing and having to qualify everything I say because of the economy. So for this post, pretend it's all good. Unless you lost your job, then I am truly sorry. But, since I can't know that, I am writing like we can all go shopping. Yea!!! I am going to cover a couple different topics this post. The first is overcoming your "can'ts, don'ts, won'ts". It never fails, I start a consultation with a client and began to hear, "well, I don't show my arms", or "I don't like to wear white", or "I can't wear pants". Many have lived for years thinking these negative thoughts and not including certain pieces of clothing in their wardrobe. The real problem is that they haven't taken the time or gone through the frustration of trying on again, and again, and again to find the proper fit or style for the area of concern. It almost always comes back to body issues. Yes, a gathered elastic band sleeve will make your upper arm look larger, and yes, pants have different rises and cuts. And of course, if the pant or top doesn't fit right, white may not be flattering. But, it is my firm belief that every body can be dressed in a flattering, stylish way. Even in white. Now, if it is personal taste, then I understand that. But I hate to see women and men, veering away from colors and styles because they are unsure of how to wear them. And let me end by saying, there are styles, cuts, and colors that will look better than others. But, until you take the time to try on, you may never get past that negative belief you've been carrying around with you. And, you can do better than that! The other topic I wanted to cover is what I have labeled the "3 blocks of colors". It is not a good thing! I am talking about an outfit comprised of, for instance, a navy blazer, a khaki pant, and a white shirt. Or, a denim skirt, a brown shirt, and a cream cardigan. What's wrong with that? It's BORING. As your are putting your outfits together, try to incorporate some layering with tanks or camis of a complementing color. Try layering a tank under a sheer top then top with a simple cardigan. Another option is to make sure you have some prints in your wardrobe. Tops, sweaters, and jackets in a cute print over or under a solid is an easy fix. Picture a cute silky floral top under your cream sweater with your denim skirt. Then add a pair of ballet flats or gladiator thong sandals and you've got a look! With that look you included some more visual interest with a print. Also, include accessories like a cool necklace of chunky beads, a long interesting chain, a scarf, or belt a long tee. These can become a focal point for an outfit. Using depth (layering), visual interest (embellishments like beading, prints, or ruffles), and an accessory as a point of interest will make you look put together and in style. One word of caution, don't do all three together. So, tomorrow when you look in the mirror if you see "3 blocks of color", go back to your closet because you can do better than that! As always, call me for help with any of these or other wardrobe malfunctions! Thanks........