Cold Temps and Thoughts of Spring Fashions

January 20, 2012

This post is so late…I took a trip to Asheville with extended family so of course, no blogging then.  Just food, fun, family, and a fire going non-stop!  Wonderful.  Then my computer thought it should just wig out for a while…very weird and not wonderful.  But, it has been scanned and hopefully fixed and here I am.  Glad to be on the job!

Last week before I left for the mountains, I was kindly invited to Belk’s Spring Preview.  Arlene Goldstein their fashion forecaster, went over Belk’s view of the upcoming season.  They had some great thoughts and fun items picked out to represent their take on Spring 2012.

Reading about the shows last fall, Belk seems to be right on target.  BIG pops of color will be a hit.  The color tangerine will be a major factor, it has slowly been inching forward for a couple of seasons now.  Laid back Americana clothing, denim and nods to western flare are staying strong.  And shoes will still make or break an outfit!   Color is evermore important here with so many shades on the color wheel shown on straps, toes, heels etc.  For ladies with aching backs, fatter, stacked heels are being shown more and more.

Below I have some pics from Belk’s media layout (except the tote).  I have picked my favorites.

Ok, Belk’s highlight here is supposed to be the lace shirt, and I agree, lace will be a major factor with spring styles.  But listen gals, if you want to be on trend and up to date this season, colored denim is the way to go.  I don’t think they will stick around for years but it’s not a quickie fad either.  I’d feel safe spending a few bucks on some.  So fun!  Try red ones and black flats with a black turtleneck right now and switch to black sandals and a white top later to keep it simple and classy.   Although these pink ones are awfully pretty!  And unless you’re 25 or so and under lose the back pocket distractions!

Miss Me Pink skinny jean, $99.00 Willow & Clay crochet knit top, $98.00

The next pic is what they describe as American original….I call it nautical.  Soooo Hamptons, or Nashville, hehehe.  While this is very unassuming, I do like it for its chic factor.  No wondering what you were trying to convey here…simple yet lovely.  And this blouse would pair perfectly with so many other items.   Shoes?  Would a red pump be too literal….if so, go for neutral.

Jones New York Signature White sleeveless blouse, $69.00 Dot pencil skirt, $99.00

Remember I said BIG pops of color?  Imagine a subtle black, grey, white…pick your color, fairly monotone outfit then bam!  This big ‘ol blue tote.  What a statement.  And done very simply.  So, if your wardrobe consists of drabness, and I hope it doesn’t, consider a bold color in a bag or a pair of shoes.  Maybe a belt or jewelry would be enough for you.  Just try something.

Steve Madden tote/ $198.00/ nordstroms

And lastly, here’s an example of those fatter heels I was referring to.  I think these are a bit of a fad but if you must have the latest, this is an example;  although I wouldn’t replace all my shoes with some like these.  They are cute though!  But now, that tangerine patent toe flat and silver stripe, I could wear those everyday…..classic overtones with a color twist.  Love. it.

Calvin Klein "Pash" patent toe dress flat in beige, $99.00 "Blaine" metallic toe dress pump in beige, $109.00

I want to thank Arlene at Belk for inviting me to their showing.  It was a treat and certainly got me pumped thinking about spring.  What do you think, do you have any favorite trends you see for the upcoming warmer weather?  Let me know…I love feedback!

In reference to my last post, if you want to plow through some sales and the ever dropping prices let me know.  Surgeries are over so I’m ready to roll and have clients calling regularly.  Hope to catch up with YOU soon.  Thanks for reading….

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Manuevering After Christmas Sales

January 10, 2012

The days after Christmas are a hustle and bustle of people searching for the perfect deal.  You waited for the after Christmas sales to buy those shoes you’ve had your eye on or the bracelet you didn’t get as a gift.  Maybe you got a mall gift card….so fun!  And sometimes, you can find bigger markdowns.  But the truth is, Christmas merchandise specifically is really all that will be drastically reduced.  You can stock up on paper, ornaments, and dishes but the gorgeous cashmere sweater you wanted probably won’t go down in price too much until late January or early February.  In fact, I was at Banana Republic before Christmas and they were running 40% off their clearance which is pretty doggone good.  The manager told me that the sales wouldn’t be that good after Christmas, and he was telling the truth.  Afterwards, it went down to 30% off, which still is pretty good but not 40%!   Just an example of the misnomer of after Christmas sales.

The fact is, retailers are really trying to boost their holiday sales so sometimes offer much better deals the last couple of weeks leading up to Christmas.   If you find your item at a price reasonable to you, I’d say get it.  Because after Christmas, it becomes a bit of a gamble….do you wait and hope your size and desired color are still available when it becomes cheaper?  Or, go ahead and buy, then watch the price go down three weeks later?   Ahhh, what to do, what to do??  Many places offer percentages off their clearance merchandise on the weekends when the traffic is higher instead of actually marking the item down in red.  That way, clearance can go back up during the week, as I mentioned before about BR.  Actual red pen markdowns will start to occur toward the end of January.  At that point cruise wear will be out and spring merchandise won’t be far behind and stores will be needing room.  And, the extra percentages may still be offered from time to time.

But, I have included in this post a few items that I do think are good deals this soon after Christmas for their make and brand.  And, it always pays to look around for that one great piece that was a late fall item and didn’t get snatched up during Christmas.

First is this precious skirt from Anthropologie.  At $60, this wool skirt can certainly be considered a deal.  It also appears to be a decent length so it’s not just for the younger gals.  The tie is navy so it would fit in fab with the cruise wear season upon us.  Don’t let the tie color throw you either…go ahead and put black pumps with it.  Keep the top neutral, maybe a beige cardigan over a similar color shell.  Or a navy turtleneck with nude heels.  Keeping it more classic will be the easiest. Black flats will work well also.

Color blocked wool sweater skirt/ Anthropologie.com/ $59.59 from $118

Another good buy if you don’t own any is a pair of ankle boots or booties.  I’d start with black….very easy to work with.  Unfortunately, if your ankles are a bit on the thick side, stay away from these as they will not flatter you.  To get the same look, opt for a shoe with the overtones of a bootie as the second picture shows.  This first pic is a Nine West leather bootie.  Smooth, supple leather for $54 dollars isn’t too shabby.  And Nine West is a decent brand.  This is a great no frills boot and will compliment many outfits.  Classy.

Leather black ankle boot/ Nordstroms.com/ $54.90 on sale

This second pic is a great example of a boot/shoe to buy to get the same effect.  If you do have wider ankles, buckles, straps and doodads will not be your friend.  Notice the zipper here will draw the eye up lengthening your leg.  Also, the higher the heel is and the pointier the toe will help to slim your ankle.  I’ve kept it more casual; and remember, I’ve tried to find good sale shoes so both types can be found at higher prices and many more styles.

Aerosoles black suede bootie/ Piperlime.com/ $59.99 on sale from $99

My last example is from Talbots.  And, fyi, they have been running 40% off their clearance for 2 weekends now.  It may even be running through the week.  I love this sweater.  It’s really a 3 season item.  So fabulous with browns and blacks for fall and then winter; come spring it’ll be beautiful with white.  You may just wear it out.  And let’s hear it…whoo hoo for the price…the deal of the day!!  I don’t know how many are left online but there are several colors.  Have at it!

Beige cotton/wool sweater/ Talbots.com/ $38.39

I hope you have great success with the after Christmas sales; just remember that more drastic markdowns will be coming for what ever merchandise continues to sit on the floor.  If you like to gamble, this is your game!  Of course, call me and I can pick through those sales, find the best pieces for you, and have it all ready and waiting in the dressing room.  Ooooh, doesn’t that just sound fantastic??  Call me and thanks for reading…..

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New Year’s Eve Style Advice

December 30, 2011

I’m not posting about outfits this time….we covered alot of those in the weeks approaching Christmas. And very possibly, you got cute things for Christmas and your outfit is ready to go.  You know all about glamming it up for out on the town or cozy, warm outfits for home with friends by the fire….which we won’t need this year in Nashville, too warm!  So, we need to talk about the details….those pesky little things that need to be paid attention to before you walk out the door.

Let’s talk hair.  Since mine is just growing back out from being bald….not fun, trust me….I am having to really spend time using hair “stuff’;  products, dryers, and most importantly a handheld mirror.  Although I can do a finger fluff, a mirror tells me where I need some product or curling or brushing in the back.  Even if you have long hair you pull back into a clip or ponytail, etc., check the back.  You can look great from the front and have a mess from behind!

The second thing to check before leaving are the pieces of clothing themselves.  If it’s new…probably no worries.  But if you are pulling something out of the closet check each item.  Those beautiful loosely woven, glittery sweaters are notorious for thread pulls.  They’ll catch on anything.  Fix them (pull the thread back to the inside or gently stretch material the direction of the pull til back in place) as best you can then put a small dab of clear fingernail polish on the inside of the garment at the place, hopefully that will hold it.   If you are wearing something sheer, make sure you have the proper undergarments.  This includes checking for panty lines.  We are not tramps!  Pants need to have the hems checked regularly. I many times see women walking around with pant hems falling out.  It’s so unsightly.  If you are wearing jeans, they need to be examined for dirt and fit.  Jeans are pieces of clothing we wear all the time and it’s easy to forget to throw them in the wash.  Plus, washing and drying, if you can (I don’t dry most of mine, they’ll be too tight), keeps them fitting as they should.

Another thing to check is of course your shoes.  They should be clean and well-kept.  Whether you think so or not, fit is important to the total look with shoes also….sandals especially should not be flopping about on your foot.  Too small is not a very neat look either.  And while we are talking shoes, let’s talk feet.  A good pedicure is priceless when wearing sandals, peeptoes, or slingbacks.  If there’s no time, then touch up what you can if you have on polish.  And a mixture of lotion and baby oil gel on legs and feet will work wonders for warding off what the drying heat and freezing cold can do to skin.  Plus, the gel gives a little shine.

If makeup is a mystery, stop by a favorite makeup counter in a department store or a free-standing retailer like Origins or Sephora and have them show you what looks best on you and also how to apply it.  And a magnified mirror helps here too!  Going the natural route will never be wrong but a little glitz is fun also.  Or maybe you just want a bold red lip.  Have an expert show you how.  Some places require appointments or purchases.  Ask for all the info beforehand.

After you’ve finished all the above, decide what accessories are going to finish your look best.  Gloves, scarves, jewelry?  Too much can be overwhelming so add these pieces with a critical eye.

And lastly, leave with a plan to get home safely.  There are some crazies out there!!

I hope you all have a wonderful New Year’s Eve and enjoy the last holiday of 2011.  It’s been an eventful year for me.  I am definitely ready to greet 2012 doing what I love, helping my clients, and staying away from doctors….although I do have enormous respect and thanks for mine.  Thank-you to all of you also that have hired me to help you and that follow this blog.  My gift to you…..a painting by one of my favorite painter’s.

Happy New Year!

Normal Rockwell for The Saturday Evening Post, 1944

 

 

 

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The Sights and Sounds of Christmas

December 24, 2011

I try to post something really worthwhile during the holiday seasons.  For some reason I couldn’t come up with anything so I borrowed from Facebook.  I’m sure many of you have seen this but hopefully some have not.  This is 5 minutes long but worth it (and I didn’t even check out what everyone was wearing!);  I normally don’t watch videos posted on fb but my husband told me to watch this one.  If you’re not a Christian or terrible spiritual, hopefully, you can just enjoy the faces of the crowd, the beautiful voices, and the excitement of the season.  The look on the children’s faces at such a happening is precious.  So, here in a flash mob….the sights and sounds of Christmas.

Merry Christmas everyone and thanks so much to everyone that has subscribed to this blog and been a client.  I truly appreciate it.  Have a wonderful rest of the holiday.

 

 

 

Flash Mob by Journey of Faith at Galleria – official video

www.youtube.com

 

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Easy Holiday Outfits…Take Your Pick

December 18, 2011

As we head into the final days of this merry season, not including New Year’s, here are a few ideas to help maneuver that neighbor’s open house you almost forgot about, or the office party you’d like to forget!  I’ve borrowed heavily from Lucky Magazine’s ideas but included my own pictures.

This first outfit they’ve entitled ‘Drinks’ but lets just say any casual event you may be running to, and this includes daytime….it is the holidays after all.  Shiny isn’t just reserved for the nighttime gals.  I’ve kept the shoes simple for ease and standing even though they called for ankle boots.  This look, while incorporating metallics, is fairly simple.  You’ll need a jacket of some kind, a black blazer with some detail is great for just this type of outing.  Below is my outfit with Lucky’s commentary.

 “Meet for a Drink”

If you’re meeting friends at a bar pair something sheer with something denim and you can’t go wrong.

Sparkly jewelry keeps even a laid-back look in the holiday spirit.  Skinny pants and ankle boots are chic, flattering and ideal if you’ll be standing for hours.

gold top, skinny jeans, black flats, black tux jacket

Lucky Magazine calls the office party the time to impress…..yep, it is, but also time to wow ‘em.  On office party day, choose a dressier look than you usually would and plan to be in the spirit all day, not just for the hour or so afterwards.  Show you care and the event is worth your time and effort.  This dress is sweet and demure with or without the cardigan and the length keeps it ladylike.  If you like a less feminine look, add a blazer like the one above instead of the cardigan.  Wear the heels all day or bring them and slip ‘em on at 5.  The necklace may be a little fancy for everyday but again, it is the holidays.  The whole look is more festive than traditional workwear.  (if the font of this paragraph is different I have no idea why…ugh!)

 

 ”Dress to Impress”

If your office is having a holiday party, don’t even think about whether or not people will be judging your style–they will. Keep your outfit formal and tasteful.

purple cashmere dress, black cardigan, black suede pumps

Party time!  I love this look.  Like the one above, the hem length is great for all ages.   The t-strap heels do conjure up the retro vibe Lucky refers to and the three fat bracelets add some Christmas bling.  The sheer blouse (which you will wear a camisole under!) goes neatly with a dressy affair.   Add a shiny envelope clutch to carry under your arm and make it a “yes, this is a look” look!   Read on to see what Lucky says…..

 “Festive Dress”

 

If you’ve been invited for cocktails look for ladylike pieces that channel a slightly retro vibe.

An oversize crystal cuff adds a playful twist and (rather weighty) touch of decadence.  Strappy, lacy heels will take you everywhere: They’re fancy without being over the top.

royal blue skirt, georgette white blouse, silver suede sandals, sapphire earrings

If you’d like to see Lucky’s picks for these happenings click here.  There are several outfits I have not included, all fun to look at and decide how you’d like to style them.  And as far as age appropriateness goes, and I have many ladies that ask me to speak to that, the last two looks are definitely suitable for all age ranges.  On the first look, substitute a trouser jean and if you need to, wear a lower heel for the second and last looks.  What you feel most attractive wearing may not be one of these, but take an element of them and make it work for you.  A statement piece of jewelry, some knock-out shoes, or a skirt in a bright color….all of these items will make for a festive look.   Please, please try something other than traditional green and red.  It’ll do you good!

If you like one of the pieces I’ve shown, go to polyvore.com and describe that item in the search box.

Enjoy this last weekend before Christmas…..slow down and really enjoy it.  Look at the lights, the children, drop a dollar in the Salvation Army pail, or if you really want to have fun, go caroling.  Just enjoy.  It’ll make you as happy as a new outfit!  Thanks for reading,

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Furs, Ferdinand, and Gus Mayer

December 13, 2011

I am a native Nashvillian and Gus Mayer has been around as long as I can remember.  They have always been a name associated with elegance, quality, and recognizable designer name brands.  I was in recently and had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Ferdinand Weil (Ferd for short, but I love the full name, don’t you?), the furrier there.   Yes, Ferd the furrier!  What a great wealth of knowledge he has on furs and the fur industry.  It was such a delight to chat with him and learn more about the fascinating world of furs.  Did you know a sable was an animal, not just a color?  Um, not me.  He can tell if your mink was a male or female by the feel.  Russian sable is THE most expensive fur….and on and on he could go.  Wow!  So, here is my “interview” with Mr. Ferd.  As you will see, he is a man of few words!  My questions in green, Merry Christmas!

1. You said you’ve been with Gus Mayer for 13 years, how long have you been working with furs all together and in what capacity?

IN THE FUR BUSINESS 55 YRS AS STORE OWNER AND BUYER

2. We also talked about how the fur industry has changed, in what ways have you noticed that happening?

THE INDUSTRY HAS BECOME YOUNGER AND THE MDSE IS MORE CONTEMPORY.

3.  Have the fur prices risen, fallen, or stayed around the same in the last few years?

FUR PRICES LIKE EVERTHING ELSE HAVE RISEN substantially IN THE PAST TEN YRS.

4.  Can you give some pointers when looking for and buying a fur piece?  For instance, important questions we should ask.

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN, MALE OR FEMALE PELT,WORKMANSHIP AND SKIN MATCHING, AND COLOR CLARITY.

I called Mr. Weil to clarify these answers and here is the breakdown; for minks (and I think he would say other types too), you should buy pelts from the USA because of superior breeding and tanning processes.  And I (no expert), after some online researching, would say for humane purposes as well, for instance China or Korea are not going to have many regulations in those areas.  Russian furs are also of excellent quality. 
Secondly you want a female pelt for softer feel and thirdly, check for matching of the color and texture of the skin.  Hope that clears up that question. 
5.  What is the most popular kind of fur these days, what are most women looking to buy?

MINK IS STILL THE NO1 SELLER  PEOPLE HERE WANT LIGHT WEIGHT, SO SHEARED MINK IS POPULAR.

Me, Ferd, and my lovely mink he repaired.  Thank-you!!

 

 

Me and Ferd

6.  What about caring for a fur coat?  You told me not to keep my mink wrapped in plastic!  (which by the way I didn’t, I just carried it into the store that way)

COMMON SENSE, DO NOTHING THAT WILL DRY OUT PELTS ,MUST BREATHE,NO DIRECT LIGHT, SHOULD STORE.

7.  Ok, let’s get into the nitty gritty.  There are always going to be the ones in every industry that don’t abide by the rules.  In your estimation, and I know you have visited some, are the farms in the US humanely run?  I know they fall under the Agricultural Dept. and there are standards.  Could you give a short overview of say, a mink farm and how they are kept and harvested?

T HAS BEEN MY EXPERIENCE THAT FUR FARMS ARE AS HUMANE AS POSSIBLE. ANIMALS ARE EXPENSIVE AND ARE WELL TREATED. IT MAKES NO SENSE TO MISTREAT YOUR ASSET. EACH MINK IS SELF CAGED AS TO PROTECT IT FROM OTHER MINKS,THEREBY PRESERVING THE QUALITY OF ITS SKIN.

He also told me that to keep from stressing them, when “havested” (killed) it is either by injection or gas into a closed container.   

8.  And we also discussed that all the by-products of the animal are put to use while faux fur is made from what?

FAUX FUR IS A DIRECT PRODUCT OF PETROLEUM PRODUCTS, NOT RENEWABLE RESOURSE.

9.  Could you give a list of the most popular furs?  Does one hold up better than another or is one considered more practical?

MINK, SABEL,MARTEN,SQUIREL, FOX.  THE FUR WITH THE LONGEST GUARD HAIR WILL WEAR LONGER THAN OTHERS. FURS NEED NOT BE PRACTICAL AS THEY ARE A LUXURY ITEM.  (Dumb question Melinda!)

10.  What is the life of a well cared for fur piece or is it something that can be handed down over generations?

DEPENDS ON THE TYPE OF FUR AND THE CARE GIVEN IT PERHAPS AS LONG AS 25YRS. SKINS WILL DRY OUT IN TIME AND BECOME BRITTLE AND SHED.

11.  And lastly, Gus Mayer is the place to go for repair, storage, purchasing, etc.of  beautiful furs….is that right?  (Although I think I know the answer!) ABSOLUTLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thank-you so much to Mr. Ferd for spending time educating me.  I don’t push faux or real, I just know they look fabulous and are in big demand fashion wise.  If wearing fur (real or no) bothers you….don’t buy.  And Gus Mayer is certainly more than it’s furs.  They are having trunk showings of various designers this season so stop in and see what they have to offer.  Click  here  for more info on them and their fur services.

Oh my, look at all the pretty Christmas goodies!

Gus Mayer fur area

 

 

Thanks for reading….remember I offer gift certificates if you need a great gift idea.  Enjoy the season!

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Pippa, Gwen, and Miranda…..Doable Style

December 5, 2011

As you know, I don’t make a habit of featuring celebs for this blog….I like featuring looks “regular” folks can buy or create.  But, these looks I’ve highlighted are easy to recreate if you can’t afford the designer pieces they are most certainly wearing.  These are get around town, running errands, outfits.  You have to admit, when you have taken the time to look good and you are bopping in and out of places, you feel better “dressed” than when you have just thrown on your sweats and tennis shoes.

When I know I am going to be out for the day, I will often decide what I’m going to wear the night before…make sure it’s clean, the pieces work well together…right down to the shoes and accessories. It makes the morning move much smoother.  Sometimes I don’t get it right and all day long I wish I could go home and change!  It happens to the best of us….there was a recent picture of Sarah Jessica Parker wearing a Chanel gown and she wore some long black vest thing over the dress.  I’m sorry, when wearing a Chanel gown you don’t cover it up!  Live and learn…..

Check-out these cute looks and be inspired.

The first is Pippa Middleton….she and Kate have such a great sense of style.  Effortless and casual but always pulled together.  I believe she works for her parent’s business dealing in event and party goods.  Here she is walking to work looking winter chic.   Knee high brown suede boots paired with black and grey and the stand out piece that pulls it all together…a leopard print blouse.  Can you imagine going to work knowing there would be someone waiting to take your picture every time????  Serious pressure!  She handles it well.

Pippa Middleton work attire/grey wool trench/ black and mulberry satchel

I’ve featured Gwen Stefani before.  She is a true fashion icon.  Her eclectic clothing choices and signature bright colors she incorporates are so fun to watch.  But this look stays toned down with a pop of dots.  Polka dots have made a huge fashion return.  This outfit would actually be pretty easy to copy.  Gwen has a great smile….a great addition no matter what you are wearing, always try to work one in!   And notice her sunnies….

Gwen Stefani/ dot sweater/ black mini skirt/ black boots

Miranda Kerr is  more often coming to mind as a style setter. I’ve seen a couple of pictures of her that I am so impressed with.  I love how she has mixed and matched these pieces.  Soft and hard, biker and nautical all thrown together to create a fun, about town look.  Cute how she’s rolled the pants and has some skin showing…love that, even if it’s cold…you ankles will survive.  And a big tote will always convey businessy “I have important things to do” look!

Miranda Kerr/buckle booties/ motorcycle jacket/ Celine red tote

It is a rainy, nasty day here in Nashville.  Hard to be cute when you look like a drowned rat after hopping in and out of the car all day.  But we do the best we can!  Take a bit of time tonight and pick out some favorite pieces and try to put them together a new way.   You may be surprised with what you can create.  And of course, I’m up for helping you anytime!

Just an fyi….. some blogs coming up; info on furs, styling for ladies “of a certain age”, and holiday dressing.  To those that have recently signed up, thanks so much.  Any sharing or liking at the bottom of this page is greatly appreciated also!

Thanks for reading….

 

 

 

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As Coco Would Say…”Black Has It All”!

November 30, 2011

Every holiday season requires a discussion of the LBD.  If you’ve read me very often, you know I tend to shy away from all black.  I like a bit of individuality and solid black seems not to have that sometimes.  I know, a stylist that doesn’t loooovvvee black?   Can you believe it?  I must say though, I am starting to be a convert.  I think I see so many clients that incorporate no color at all and their closets are full of black, that I became kinda anti-black.  Truthfully though, the little black dress doesn’t really fall in that category.  It is a category unto itself and for good reason.  It is an icon, a classic, a “must have” if you will.

Check-out the ones I’ve “done up” below and see what you think.  What I’ve tried to do, and what I encourage you to do with a  little black dress, as with all your clothing, is to find something that you think makes the dress stand out as you….what will make it different from all the rest?   Or maybe the dress itself will be enough!

Okay, here is LBD look #1…

All of these pieces are standout on their own really…..together they create an unbelievable look!  Don’t feel obligated to wear a necklace here….an unadorned neck and collarbone can be really nice, plus, you’ve got the earrings drawing attention.

Black ruffle dress/sapphire dangle earrings/ black sandals/ Polyvore.com

A more covered up look for LBD #2 but no less a knock-out!  If you can buy these pumps and/or evening bag, you will have any black evening ensemble made….holidays or not.  They are just beautiful!  The neckline here is so flattering.

black Hollow lace dress/ Kate Spade red satin pumps/ silver sequined leaf evening bag/ Polyvore.com

And lastly, holiday look number 3….let me just say, this jacket is an unbelievable deal.  It is waaaay marked down and would be a fabulous investment piece.  You can find it at Barneys.com.  Okay, that’s out of the way, now the dress…..what do you think?  Would ostrich feathers work for you?  I adore this outfit.  A more modern take on the LBD with booties and the feathers.

Jil Sander metallic jacket/ Michael Kors ostrich feather/crepe dress, Guess miniaudiere/ booties/ Polyvore.com

Of course, most of these pieces could be mixed and matched for any number of outfits.  And, certainly, your body type, proportion, etc. will come into play when you create your look.  But my point is, play with it, these are not simple black dresses with your  black church shoes and your wool winter coat.  Some of these items are high dollar some are not.  It will take a bit of an effort on your part but when you enter your event you’ll be glad you took the time.  When the looks shine like these, keep the hair and makeup simple and pretty.  The details on these items can all be found at polyvore.com.  Just describe the item or enter the brand name into the ‘search product’ box.  The images here are somewhat blurry, they are worth going to the site to see!  Hopefully though, you get the vibe I was going for with each one.

More holiday thoughts coming up as the days go on….please call if I can help you create your party look!  Thanks for reading,

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A Little Vintage Look

November 27, 2011

Vintage fashion is bigger than ever.  Thrifting, Goodwilling (yes, I turned it into a verb), and shopping consignment are having their heyday and I’m all for it.  Many times visiting these places is about savings.  Other times, it’s about finding beautiful, one of a kind, like new and sometimes brand new pieces.  Case in point…..I recently worked with a client that was interested in looking for savings where she could.  We visited one consignment store and she left with a Cabi boiled wool coat, a Banana Republic cashmere sweater (new I believe), and Donald Pliner pony hair black and white flats.  I think she paid around $150 for about 5 pieces including the three mentioned above.  A  friend and I are going out looking this week for our own bargains and exciting finds!

The pieces my client bought  are not  vintage and that’s what I’m addressing in this post, but the thrift stores and such are where I would start.  Or the online site mentioned below.  Some places are going to focus solely on the vintage look and not carry new items.   Another good place to look is estate sales.  I’ve mentioned before  my mink collar (blah, blah yes we know) my husband found at an estate sale….$40.  It’s beautiful and I’ve just gotten it back from the clasps being tightened.  I plan to do a post on furs later.  Anyway, if the vintage look is something that interests you, I’d start small.  Start with a subtle nod to a different decade.  Sometimes a single piece speaks volumes.

Maybe old doesn’t interest you but the look does.  You decide, I’ve got both!

This sweet little coat hits all the right notes (that sounds like car talk doesn’t it?).  A wool blend, rolled, flat collared coat with dropped, no-seam shoulders.  The site says it fits a bit over-sized as indicated by the shape.  So cute if you went  all out with a dress and pumps or, do a more modern take with skinny jeans and boots.  This flat collar is perfect by the way for another add on collar, mink or not.  Maybe a large ruffled collar with a bow to secure in place.  Or add your mother’s pearl broach.  Just so great.

Vintage inpired coat/ modcloth.com / $79.99

This next item is from the ’80′s but has a ’60′s vibe I think.  A beautiful full length tannish brown wool coat.   It is Christian Dior Manteaux….yes, Christian Dior.  Manteaux meaning manufactured in Canada.  Please click on the vintage clothing sites to get the full effect.  These small pictures don’t do them justice.  I can absolutely see this coat covering a very 2011 black turtleneck and slim pants and boots ensemble.  This particular coat is a M-L.   Such a statement.

Christian Dior Manteaux wool coat/ Rubylane.com (Poppy's Vintage) / $175.00

You can’t talk vintage looks without considering Anthropologie.  This store has become a bastion of clothing representing different decades. Fifties, sixties, you name it…..I almost always find something that I “need”.   This darling handknit cardigan is ageless really.  I think it’s got a bit of vintage flair and taken care of will last a lifetime.  The pink on green floral design is so pretty.  Look at those little change pockets on the front! Pair this with bootcut jeans and your favorite cowboy boots and a white or pink tee underneath.  It can even have a small print!  This sweater will be so warm you likely won’t need a jacket.  Simple pearl studs…..oh so good!

Laisandra cardigan/Anthropologie.com/ $268.00

This last picture is true vintage and you must go to the site to fully see it…it is truly a beautiful dress.  The detail on the lace is just stunning.  It has an illusion neckline and tucked waist and is detailed with faux pearls and rhinestones.   I would host a party just to wear it!  Please let me know if you decide to purchase it.  All this dress requires is a pair of black peeptoe pumps and simple earrings…..add some leather gloves if you want to go the full route. The dress has no tag but the site says appears to be around an 8-10.

Chantilly lace cocktail dress/ Rubylane.com (Glamour Girl Vintage)/ $150.00

A note, Rubylane.com  is a site that hosts online businesses.  It is a great place for accessories as well.

I hope this has inspired you to look beyond the mall, not simply for savings, but for individuality as well.  There’s just something about wearing a piece that has a history, whether you know that history or not.

And so the holiday rush begins……please call at your convenience for event dressing or simple wardrobe consulting.  Thanks for reading,

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Quick…What to Wear Today…Thanksgiving

November 24, 2011

Ok, I’m late…..should’ve posted this last night (watched a movie with my daughter instead!), actually, a couple days ago.  But, if your family/friends holiday gathering is this evening you still have time to dig in that closet and pull together a great outfit.   And if I’m too late for today, I’m sure you’ll have other opportunities this weekend to look fab!  Here ya go…..

First look, go metallic.  For a quick pop to any outfit, add some shine.  Remember though,  you don’t want to  glow in the dark.  Just the overall effect of shimmering is the goal.  Here are a couple of examples.

Fresh from the streets of NYC, she’s working two looks here.  An overall gray look and a coat with some shine for good measure.  Walk into Uncle Joe’s wearing something like this and you’ll be the talk of the day, in a good way.  Statement jewelry also helps.

gray metallic and monotone

An easier route, just a pretty shiny top, skinny jeans and black flats…..you’re good to go.

A  second idea, go warm…it’s autumn, the leaves have turned and are falling, and that pumpkin pie is in the oven.  Pull out your tans, oranges, browns etc. and mix ‘em all up for a glorious November look.

I adore this blouse and sweater, I’d even do the pants.  Most of us probably don’t have them so add gray or camel or black.  Just as lovely.  If you can go casual, dark wash jeans with a similar top ensemble.  This woman does no wrong.

Tory Burch/NYC

Another camel and cozy look….

Camel blazer, skinny black jeans, chunky suede boots/ Paris

If all else fails, add an animal print.   If you don’t have this in your wardrobe, buy something during the weekend sales!  It’ll instantly update anything and add the chic factor for sure.  You may just upstage the hostess, not that that’s what we’re after:)  Pair something like this with jeans, black pants or camel or gray.  Beautiful.

Sandro sweater/ netaporter.com/ $285.00

Okay, you have your marching orders.  Sorry they’re so late.  Any of these looks will do the trick for a fabulous Thanksgiving weekend outfit.

But, actually, what I’d like to say is…..I hope you all take time to enjoy your family, friends, blessings, and faith today.  That’s what I’m doing….they’re the most important, to me anyway.   The clothes are just an added fun bonus…..

I hope you all have a warm and loving Thanksgiving…..thank-you for reading,

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