Minty Fresh

May 20, 2012

We all know that this is the hot color that has been touted since winter as the one to have included in your wardrobe.  But has anyone noticed the dark horse color (reference to the racing weeks!) that has quickly been gaining popularity?  This is it, mint green.  It is a beautiful color.  And to take it one step further, many times we are seeing the colors being paired with lovely outcomes.  Below are a few items in mint that might just need to be in your closet:)

This is a really sweet tank that would look great with white jeans and neutral flat sandals.  The bottom is sheer so I would certainly add a cami, a strapless one (yes, they are available), would work well to keep the back view, which is a bit of a racer cut, looking clean.  Obviously this cutie went with the sheer look but even in your 20′s I wouldn’t recommend it. Note the simple chain…keeping the vibe kinda boho.

Crocheted top/ Urban Outfitters / $49.00

The sandal below has some wonderful summer features.  A great color…yes, it’s a bit darker than mint but still in that family, simple lines to complement your foot, and a very smooth, natural woven, low heel.  The silver rectangle is an elongating feature and will aid in slenderizing your foot if is wider than you’d like.  Love this little sandal.  So feminine.

Patent teal sandal/ Calvin Klein/ $69.00, Zappos.com

This dress is absolutely beautiful.  It’s a classic cut in a beautiful shade of green.  Constructed of a wool/silk blend which will wear beautifully.  Don’t worry about the wool, it’s a “tropical weight” wool which is really just “summer weight”.  I do believe I want this dress, badly.  The site says “low on stock”.  Act quickly. And btw, this dress shape is almost a must have in your wardrobe.  It’s an ageless cut and usually very flattering.

Alexon Alexa shift/ John Lewis/ $240.00

Here is an example of the two “it” colors paired up in a geometric necklace.  I love the modern look going on.  In fact, check out etsy for several great buys in jewelry.  Really cool site.

Geometric necklace/ etsy.com/ $19.00

I hope you enjoy this summer shade, it’s really one of my favorites….it works wonderfully with navy, black, white, gray…..so many options.  Even denim.  Why don’t you give it a try?

Have a wonderful week!  Please call for any wardrobe needs you may have,

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The Long and Short of It

May 11, 2012

I had someone email and ask me to blog about how to wear maxi dresses and skirts so I thought that since they were such a fun summer piece to wear we’d look at some.

This is gonna be a brief post writing wise but lengthy because of pictures so you’ll get some good ideas.  Maxi’s have become a very popular item with all ages of women.  For summer they are a fun and flowy way to spice up an outfit without going “all” out.  And if spicing up isn’t on the agenda, a cute knit maxi skirt can be paired with a tank and go to the farmers market…. easy peasy.

A couple of things to think about when choosing….if you have a few body or age “issues” (i.e. love handles or maybe 50ish +) a straight skirt with no ruffles, tiers, or such, a solid color for sure, and hitting right around the ankle will be the easiest to wear one.  Keep the shoes flat or a very minimal heel for a breezy, warm weather feel.  It doesn’t have to just be a sandal, a closed toe works too.  If you want to take it a step up, a casual wedge or cute platform will keep the look fun.  You aren’t wearing an evening gown so ‘heels’ won’t fly.  A particular group of women to speak to are those that are in the plus size range.  Unfortunately, this group of gals are a difficult body type to pull this off.  I have seen a couple pictures that were ok but they are few and far between.  There is one below that would be a good one to try.

Let’s look at a some pics!

The easiest way to do it.  Simple lines with a nice side vent for that blowy feel.  Flat thongs and a stripe tee.  If you don’t want to tuck, make sure your top isn’t too long.  A top skimming the body and hitting at the top of the hip bone should be just about right.  This skirt has light pleating at the top, you don’t want a tee shirt pressing them down.  And the best thing about this skirt is the fabulous back, a little piece of black elastic and visible zipper.  Cute detail.  I couldn’t download that pic so click and see for yourself!

coral maxi/ Vince Camuto; Nordstroms/ $79.00

A step up….we’ve added pleats and a lovely blouse, more going on visually but still warm weather appropriate. This will take you to dinner, a poolside luncheon, and downtown on Friday night for wine and to hear some great music!  I’d even wear it to church.  My fave of what I researched.  I need this blouse.

Aqua knife pleat maxi skirt with floral top/ glamour.com

If you are sticking your proverbial toe into the maxi world, this is a good start.  Basic black (or my preference would be navy:)), nice hang to the fabric, flattering cut.  If showing your arms is too “out there” for you, you’ll need a gauzy lightweight cardigan or something along those lines.  It can be tricky to do that with this style dress though.  So, maybe a pair of 5 lb. weights and some Jergens self -tanner?

Black maxi dress/ Soma/ 79.00

Well, just found this one at Target so maxi dresses with some type of sleeve are definitely available….I saw others I didn’t love.  But, this one is simple and easy to accessorize.  It could be a little low cut so a bright color cami would really pop.  Yellow, coral, and black are some options.

Bright blue maxi/ Target/ $24.99

Now for a couple pics showing how it can go all wrong.

Oh Eileen, what happened?  This is for sale at Nordstroms.  I’d like to know the reasoning behind that buyer’s decision!  Does anyone remember the brand Gunne Sax?   This could certainly be from that brand.  I’m trying hard to picture this being flattering in some way.  If anybody can see it, let me know.  Points for the cute wedges though.

Sundress tiered maxi / Eileen Fisher/ $248.00

Here’s another example in a skirt.  I guess Michael and Eileen collaborated on this look only he threw in some strange attempt at tye dye.  $100.00.  Really?  But, another great shoe.

Tiered/ruffled maxi skirt/ Michael Kors/ $99.0o

Ok, I’ve been making light of this prairie look but you know me; I will try my hardest to make something work.  So, here’s an example of this look working.  It can be done, but as you can see it’s a specific look and feel.  A definite boho vibe and the right pieces are a must.  For summer take away the plaid blouse and maybe the boots and just add flat sandals.  I really do like this look when it’s done right.  This skirt is currently out of stock.

Ruffled maxi/ Free People

I want to end on another winner and this one has some pizzaz…..the cut in shoulders is very flattering and it’s certainly an on trend print.  Fun dress!

Aztec print maxi/ Eliza J/ $158.00

I’ve shown mostly images with little writing, well actually, more writing than I meant to,  hopefully to inspire and answer my client’s question.  Nancy, I think you pulled yours off!  If you are in need of a stylish look for the weekend….this could be it.

Please let me know if you need any help from me……I do have gift certificates available for Mother’s Day.  We can tailor it to the special young lady/woman that you would like to receive it.  Closet editing/some organizing, personal shopping, event shopping, etc.  Shoot me an email or call, it’s not too late!

Thanks for reading and as always, I so appreciate shares and sign-ups.  Have a wonderful weekend and tell mom you love her!

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What Not To Wear :)

May 4, 2012

Good afternoon!  Business is good, yay! so I’m a bit behind on blogging.  I like my free time too much!  But I’m here now to be the meanie.   I’m going to discuss some don’t's.  I like do’s better but in my line of work, it does me no favors to tell my clients something looks great when it doesn’t. I want return business and that means my clients need to be out and about looking pulled together and feel good about the outfits we’ve created.  Therefore, we all have to bite the bullet and recognize some things just don’t work.

So, here goes, up first, I’m taking on capris and cropped pants…bam!

Capris, crops, or whatever you call them.  Many stylists will tell you no, don’t wear, and no exceptions.  I understand why they say that. But that’s like saying gather all the illegal immigrants together and send them to their respective nations.  It’s just isn’t going to happen (yes, politics and fashion, bwhahaha!).  This style pant is just too ingrained into too many wardrobes.  They become the cooler choice for women that don’t wear shorts and the closest some will get to showing their legs at all.  In my humble opinion, we work with this mindset, not fight it.  So, I want to give some guidelines for these pants.  This is kinda long but bear with me!

Capris are named after the Isle of Capri in Italy.  They hit just below the knee to mid-calf and generally have a small slit or vent at the hem.  Cropped pants hit just above the ankle bone, at the most slender part of your leg.  Cargos are not a length they are a style meaning pockets somewhere on the legs.  Here’s the mean part.  No one really needs to wear a capri pant.  Truthfully, they don’t look good.  Your goal is to flatter your leg, not take away from it and capris hit at an awful place on the calf.  Stay with cropped pants that hit just at or above the ankle bone.  Anywhere from just above your ankle bone on up til you get to a walking short length is no man’s land…..do not enter.  Another rule many stylists will have is that petites shouldn’t wear cropped.  Again, I give a little on this.  Just beware of fit and length.  Unfortunately, another type woman who will have trouble pulling them off are those that don’t have slender ankles.  Arghhhh…I know! When buying, steer clear of the tight legging type pant or denim that encases your ankle…just stick to regular denim or pants.  A straight leg or gently tapered one work best. Size will factor in a bit also.  Larger sizes don’t need to wear very tapered cut pants. Of course, there are always exception to these “rules” but not many.  You’ll see actresses, models, or the very fashionable pulling off capris, but it’s not worth trying!  Examples below….

As you can see, whether wearing a fancy, too big (see in the pic!), black heel or casual brown one with cute pink and orange top….it doesn’t matter, it’s not good.  And in case you wondering, any kind of tennis shoe would make it worse, sorry.

This is what you are going for, whether you are petite like Reese or average and taller height.  Note the pointy toe flat and where the hem hits.  Short or tall, this is the look you want to achieve with a cropped pant. Don’t get hung up on the name, they are used interchangeably everywhere, just see where it hits on your leg.  And for summer time, go with white, light grey, or another neutral.  Whew….done with that one!

The next don’t is a bit trickier, if that’s possible.  What not to wear with black pants.  What?  Doesn’t black go with everything?  How could there possibly be a problem?  Here’s the deal…sometimes the ‘black goes with everything’ adage is a safety net.  Question….what do I wear with that?  Answer… black pants or skirt.  But in reality, just sticking a blue sweater with black pants can look very dated.  Think about Christmas parties when you see a plain red blouse or cardigan with simple black pants.  It’s a very un-modern look.  If this is the route you are going to go, I’d suggest a stepped up pant or skirt and if the top is solid it should ideally have something interesting going on (i.e. sheer, embellished, unusual construction etc.).  Otherwise it comes across uniformy and dated.  Again for summer stay away from black (unless linen, cotton or blends) and choose to pair your bright solids and patterns with white….very fresh and visually appealing.  If white scares you go with a sand or stone neutral.  Business/office wear is an exception where wearing black may need to be used for a 5 day work week, just make sure they are summer weight.

Blah!

Since this post is already so long I’ll save the rest of my don’t's for next time.  These two are biggies and may have thrown some wrenches into some of your wardrobes.  Look through your closet and think about what I’ve said.  Or better yet, call me and we’ll do it together.

Truthfully, if you want a fairly lenient, but always honest in my opinion, wardrobe stylist, I’m your gal.  I absolutely get that you will not all wear your pencil skirt, pumps, and crisp white blouse to the mall or even to church, nor should you unless that’s just your style.  I like for you to have options.  I feel for you when I suggest we toss “well loved” pieces, I try my BEST to work with items you already own, and I’m great with let’s mend, clean, or whatever to get a particular item of clothing back in wearing condition.  Gently telling a client that an outfit they thought looked stylish but in my professional opinion isn’t, is not the favorite part of my job. But, we have become a nation of very casual, messy dressers for better or worse and I have to draw the line somewhere!  It’s hard to revamp your wardrobe  But every once in a while it just needs to be done.  Good luck!

As always thanks for reading, any shares and sign-ups are greatly appreciated.  They help drive business.  Have a wonderful weekend!

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Personal Style From Real Women

April 27, 2012

There are a lot of fashion/sytle bloggers out in the internet world.  A lot.  For this post, I wanted to find someone that blogged about individual, appropriate, body flattering style for women close to 40.  A personal style blog. I found many blogs about style with downloaded pictures showing slim, beautiful models in fabulous clothes.  Not what I was looking for.  I wanted real women with varying body types…..inspiration for those that aren’t 5’11 and size 4′s.  Real women that took time to thoughtfully put together a great outfit, didn’t have the help of photoshopping, and weren’t wearing loaned clothing from advertisers.  Hundreds of younger women are doing this, 2 blogs below on my blogroll are examples….what I wore and Atlantic-Pacific.  But, as you can see, the girls are young and sooo cute.  The camera loves ‘em.  So, I really didn’t find what I was looking for….that doesn’t mean they’re not out there, I just had to stop looking and start writing!

I’m using 3 photos from the blogs I found with links back to them.  You obviously won’t like every outfit they wear, it’s just meant to get the style wheels rolling in you head!  I would really love to see any outfits you have come up with.  Send ‘em on over!

Ok, check out this chic.  What’s not to love?  Fabulous colors and accessories.  For those that don’t like heels, look at those cute flat sandals. I love the way that top pulls in then flows over the pant.   I am not sure of her age but it doesn’t really matter, I like the fact that she’s not a pencil….this definitely meets my post requirements.  Oh, and I think she sews much of what she makes.  I really. really like this.

ericabunker.com

This snazzy dresser also records many of her daily outfits.  And she has the added bonus of being a petite!  I work with many petite clients that become so frustrated trying to find clothing.  A good tailor is often your best friend if you are 5’3 and under.  I browsed through and enjoyed looking at her pics…again, you won’t love it all, but may find that perfect picture that you can duplicate.  And she is 40 something!  Note… figure flattering style, lovely dress, minimal accessories, no stilletos…..great look.

dcresider.blogspot.com

This woman’s blog also deals with style after 40.  She is certainly not a plus size but does feature some great outfits that are edgy yet age appropriate, at least the ones I saw.  She like me, appears to be having a love fest with stripes in this pic.  She includes a ‘what I wore’ spot on her blog. Slyvia is Dutch and lives in Singapore!  How cool is that?

40plusstyle.com

These women probably are able to devote much more time than many of you to developing their wardrobes and style personalities.  My readers and followers usually work full time, have children at home all day, or are otherwise engaged.  This is just a glimpse into the fashion of other women from literally around the world that love fashion and want to be appropriate yet updated and stylish.  I wanted to focus on ages above early 30′s and sizes other than a 2-4.  So many women don’t fall into that young, small group.  I hope I have done that and you’ve enjoyed these pics and went on to view their sites.  Just don’t leave me!!

This blog is what I do when I am not doing my favorite thing which is helping everyday women look and feel better about themselves through their wardrobe.  Please contact me by email,  comment on here, give me a call, or check me out on facebook, I’d love to meet you.  We’ll get you up to speed in no time …..there’s no telling what you’ve got hiding in your closet that just needs a tweak here or there:)  All the info is right below….just in case you need it fast!

melindatyleexpress@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/TheStyleExpress

615~496~3603

Thanks for reading…..

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Banana Republic Sale Tonight

April 24, 2012

Sale going on this evening!

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Jewelry..The Ultimate Way To Accessorize

April 18, 2012

….Or so says Debra Messing in this month’s issue of Instyle magazine. She say it’s a creative outlet for her and I agree.  If you want a (usually) cheaper but still fun way to show your personality, jewelry is the way to go.

I was with a group of gals last week doing a style chat, a question/answer time, and helping with their clothing swap (great idea btw).   We had a fun time and towards the end one of them asked about jewelry and how to start incorporating it into her wardrobe.  My suggestion was to start with color, size, or shape.  If you normally do silver or gold, buy a piece that incorporates some color with some beading maybe.  If you only wear small stud earrings, go a little bigger and add a different shape.  You get the idea.  Check out the pics below for some inspiration….

The first 3 pics are from Anthropologie…going to Green Hills today, I just may have to stop by!  Also, news flash, an Anthropologie is going into Brentwood rumor says:)

This sweet teardrop earring is a perfect first step to branch out from studs!!

Gold Rung earrings/ Anthropologie/ $34.00

Another choice….see, a bit of color or shape will make a huge difference.

Last Snow Drops/ Anthropologie/ $32.00

If you just wear a gold chain or small diamond pendant, why not add some length and color?  This is delicate yet will add a bit of bohemian flare to jeans and a tee shirt.

Five Tears necklace/ Anthropologie/ $38.00

Time, (pun intended:), to add a pop to your wrist besides your Seiko.  This will “summer~ize” any outfit….so pretty and a great move toward some bright color.

Endless Summer bangle/ Juicy Couture/ $78.00

Now for the brave and bored among us…..brave enough to wear an “out there” piece and bored with your own collection.  Try this pair of earrings and step into a world of ’60′s inspired color.  I’ll take ‘em!

Taupe Huggie earrings/ Lauren G. Adams, Polyvore/ $78.00

A single silver bracelet is way to sedate for you, right?  How about this lovely leather goodie?  This may need to be my Mother’s Day gift….love it.

Sliced leather cuff/ Linea Pelle/ $58.00

This red necklace is heavy enough to make a statement yet simple in its design.  The multi strand braid and solid color would work beautifully with a strapless dress or maybe a black tee and white jeans for a color blocking vibe.  Or go really bold and try the popular pink/red combo….maybe coral pants, white top, some fab brown wedges, and this necklace?  Just thinking off the top of my head:)

Plaited Rope necklace/ Paul Smith; Polyvore/ $95.00

I hope I’ve given you some ideas about changing up your jewelry routine.  Whether you like to stay simple or always go big and bold, there are definitely ways to change it up by adding a colored stone, or teardrop earrings instead of hoops, or why not a necklace with several silver strands instead of just one?

Of course, you could always really bling it out like this cutie does.  Look at all the bracelets stacked up.  I love her blog….click on the pic and skip on over.

Atlantic- Pacific blog

So, tomorrow when you are getting dressed, see if you can put some spark into your accessorizing.  Remember to call or email for springtime help….shopping, closets, or even packing for a trip!  Early May appointments are available.  Thanks for reading and have a great rest of the week!

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Size Up Ladies!

April 11, 2012

Did you used to be a size 6?  Or a 12?  Did your blouses used to button and not gap?  Do you have a pantyline with your summer pants that wasn’t there last summer?  If you answered yes to these questions, and unless you are really and truly sticking to a diet or tone up plan, then the answer is simple.  You must buy a size up. Yep. An 8 or 14 or 34 C instead of a B.  It’s not an answer we want to hear or follow.  But the deal is, while it may just be a minor thing to you, others are looking and wondering why you show up wearing clothing that is too tight and not flattering to your body type.

It seems like such a small thing that the waistband is a tad bit tighter than before but that small thing is creating a roll that doesn’t have to be there.  And yes, the going one size up may not fit everywhere just perfectly either, but that’s where a tailor comes in. It may be possible to let out a garment at the seams or waist and I would check into that for sure. Just be aware that you can accentuate or even create lines and rolls where the clothing should lay smooth.  Sometimes, even with a perfect fit…well, our bodies are what they are and we should embrace them no matter.  I’m saying, fix areas that can be fixed clothing wise.

For instance, take this pic below.  All looks fine until you look from the bust down.  It starts to pull at that first button.  The pulling is unsightly and worse, when she sits down will actually gap open and show skin.  And, the fact is, a size up may be too big and not worth the money to tailor.  Therefore the blouse/top you are trying on may just not work.  If you feel the need to pull and tug at your clothing it takes away from the  overall look of the outfit and is usually a clear sign the clothing doesn’t fit you well.

This is one more example of a ill-fitting blouse.  Too bad it’s worn by our First Lady who usually hits home runs style wise.  Sizing up may not have been an option here so as I said before, you may just have to go with a totally different garment.

Michelle Obama/ First Lady of USA

Another area that can be very unsightly is pants and jeans, or as we really get into warm weather, shorts and skirts. While being a lifesaver as far as comfort goes, lycra and spandex have made it possible to fit into increasingly smaller sizes!  In this instance, the way the garment feels may not be a big clue.  Your mirror needs to become your best friend in a constructive criticism kind of way.

It must be awful to have cameras aimed at your every move and media printing every clothing choice for the world to see.  This is Katherine Heigl caught in an unflattering pair of light colored denim.  This girl is beautiful and nowhere near overweight, why the overly snug jeans?  Someone may have told her they looked great, hopefully not her stylist!  Anyway, point well taken for the rest of us…and we all have that outfit we wish we’d never worn!

Katherine Heigl

Here again is a lovely lady with a bad clothing choice.  Even those with the means sometimes don’t hire a tailor.  Here she should have looked into letting out the skirt side seams or sizing up and tailoring it to fit.   The wrinkles across her tummy do her no favors and the skirt should ideally skim down the sides of her body.  It  is stretched too tight all around. Eva Mendes is famous for her clothing fitting very snugly but….. the clothes fit well as opposed to too tight (usually) and she uses the proper undergarments.  And, just as an aside, Mrs. Brown should have chosen a different suit!!

Sarah Brown/ wife of Prime Minister Gordon Brown of UK

Before I close I want to comment on some news that local celeb and actress Ashley Judd made this week.  This is my condensed version.

Ms. Judd is currently starring in a TV series called Missing….I’ve watched, it’s a decent show, she’s a great actress.  Anyway, I noticed her face looked very puffy and obviously different and I wondered about that.  Turns out, it’s from steroids which do notoriously swell the face and other areas sometimes.  Evidently, besides little ol me wondering, most of the media did too and it became somewhat ugly with untrue accusations and wrong assumptions.  Ms. Judd spoke at a fundraising luncheon here in Nashville on Tuesday called Power of the Purse that benefits local women’s charities.  She addressed the comments there and also wrote an op-ed piece for The Daily Beast.  You can read it here.  I agree with most of what she said with just these two observations…..her situation and sex-trafficking are two vastly different things. She may be being bullied, but victims of sex-trafficking are enduring much worse.  Her situation does not rise to that level.  Secondly, men are also portrayed negatively much of the time on TV also being made into the stupid dad or husband, not participating in child-rearing, or sports and beer being their only interest.  We laugh at that just like we do commercials that use women and sex to sell goods.

Awareness is always a good thing, and that is what Ms. Judd has done, but she is in the eye of the camera and by that choice is “setting herself up” for criticism.  It goes with the territory.  The same people who are in awe of you one day and write about how beautiful you are, will also then write about an obvious change in appearance.  I agree though, it doesn’t have to be ugly.  That being said, I’m glad she has tried to remind the public about the damage that can be done by the media.  Maybe the journalists, so-called experts, bloggers, etc. will take a note and use their platforms a little more wisely.

So, as I conclude my blog of ”don’ts”, can you believe I posted this material plus the Ashley Judd thing together!!??…oh well.  Let me just say, start really looking at the way a piece of clothing fits. Sometimes we want it so badly we “will” it to fit!   Consider finding a tailor you like.  If you aren’t prepared to altar and it doesn’t fit great, don’t buy it! Something else will come along.  And if it’s already a part of your wardrobe, consider tossing it:)

I hope you enjoyed today’s post….always good to re-consider your clothing choices.  I’d love to hear any comments on the Ashley Judd brouhaha or anything else on your mind!  Of course if you need me to help, I’m available! Shopping your own closet, the mall, or editing your spring/summer wardrobe, I’d love to hear from you.  Click my info page for email, phone number and Facebook page.   Have a wonderful rest of the week and thanks for reading!  Be watching for an invitation to shop with me at the new Opry Mills soon…more info later.

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Is It Easter Already?

April 5, 2012

Well yes I believe it is!  For many this Sunday signals the date to pull out all the stops on spring clothing.  The pinks and pastels, black and white spectator looks, and navy nautical styles will be everywhere this weekend.  An Easter outfit is different from other dressy things you might wear because it will be worn at a religious service.  Therefore, fresh, springy, and stylish yet fairly modest is the priority. Different places of worship have different atmospheres but I would certainly err on the side of being dressed up rather than dressed down, especially if visiting.

Now, with all the particulars out of the way, let’s get on to some choices.

A wonderful Easter dress is always such a pleasure to wear, to see, and to be seen in.  The quintessential look.

And how lovely is this?  The colors, the colors!  A bit of an off-center draped neckline showing some collarbone will flatter everyone and it’s a great length.  Wear a red or yellow heel for some fun.  This will work for a summer wedding or a resort/cruise dinner and knowing you can use it on another occasion makes the $450 a little lighter on the pocket:)  If you’d like to see more choices for Easter frocks, watch this Lucky Magazine slideshow.  Net~a~Porter has some more beautiful dresses you might check out.

Adrienne Westwood/ $450.00/ Net-a-Porter

Adrienne Westwood/$450.00/Net-a-Porter

I don’t believe anyone said it had to be a dress though….and the word ‘pantsuit’ cannot apply to the suit below.  I believe that word is only appropriate for something say….a Secretary of State might wear:)   And don’t let this color, listed as “dill”, scare you….black, navy, cream, white, gray are all colors that will work with this. Beautiful and sharp.

BCBG Suiting/ Jordan Jacket~$258.00; Monique Slim Pant~ $158.00/ BCBG.com

If dressing casual is more your style you can still be Easter appropriate with a simple skirt and blouse or knit top.

This little H&M skirt is perfect both in the “it” color for the season and the flattering style.  Very loosely patterned after a Marc by Marc Jacobs skirt I’ve seen. Can’t you see it with a polka dot top or navy and white strip blouse for a nautical effect?

Orange skirt/ H&M/ $21.00

Found a top and had to show it…add patent black pumps or peep toes….great look, especially for some 20~30 somethings!

Black and white polka dot top/ Elle /Kohl's sale, $25.50

Just one, oops, two more….how about a flowy, pleated maxi?  Knife pleat skirts are all over the place this spring so you’ll definitely be on trend.  In fact, check out another Lucky Magazine (on a Lucky kick!) slide show featuring some other pretty ones.  Tim Gunn says no heels with maxis, keep ‘em soft and casual and I think I agree for this blush maxi skirt.   A metallic flat sandal would work.

Sparkle and Fade skirt/ Urban Outfitters/ $59.00

This sweet yellow skirt could probably take a heel as it’s hem is knee-length in the front and dips in the back.  I like the idea of a soft white top with either skirt, maybe a loose weave sweater or a cotton knit.  A sheer white or patterned blouse would pair nicely also.

Yellow pleated skirt/$56.00 / topshop.com

I hope this gives you some food for thought for your Easter weekend festivities and services.  After reading this post, please don’t make the assumption that I have forgotten what this weekend is about.  Although I will put plenty of thought into my attire, it will certainly not be my focus once I am at our Easter service.  I am richly blessed and thankful for a death and a resurrection long ago.  But, I will enjoy the “Easter Parade” of outfits before and after!  Have a wonderful weekend and enjoy the return of spring….or so the weather people say:)

As always, please call for a wardrobe consult, I am booking into late April.  Thanks for reading,

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Travelin’ Style

March 29, 2012

Airport travel can really throw people sometimes.  Unfortunately, in our confusion, we’ve (some) have decided that the more comfy and casual the better.  If my sweatshirt is cozy, then sweatpants would make it an all around great outfit!  I disagree, obviously:)  There is definitely a way to travel comfortably and still maintain a sense of style.  Going through an airport is the same as being in public anywhere else and you wouldn’t wear your shouchy sweats in the mall…..right???  But, it seems as though we believe that traveling means going to bed, or at least ultra relaxed.  Is it because we might doze on the plane?  I don’t know, but I vote we all step it up a bit for airline travel.  Who’s with me (insert a fist pump here)?

It’s really very simple for this season.  Nice fitting pants/jeans usually, a top of some sort, a second layer, maybe a cute scarf/ pashmina (for many uses), cute slip-ons, and a bag you like for a magazine, to carry the pashmina, water, or whatever.  Easy peasy.  If you’re practical, you may want to stick with darker colors.  I’ve flown in white jeans before and didn’t get a thing on them but I didn’t have children with me and it was a short flight and I was careful!  Just an fyi.

Below are some celebs that got it right and we know they don’t always!

I like this first picture; 2 layers on top, stylish big green bag for a wrap if needed or reading materials, sunglasses….my only thought is, I like to travel with closed toe shoes.  My feet get cold.  Of course, she’s probably 1st class and can put her feet up with fuzzy socks if she likes.   Nice pedicure though.

Camerson Diaz

Cameron Diaz/ LA Airport

Nothing to say here except, really easy, classic, and cute.  Slip on flats make it easy to get through security.  Simple to copy as seen in the pic next to Sienna.

Sienna Miller/ London Airport

I believe this is Jessica Biel.  When I got the picture, I forgot to write down the information.  Big problem.  Anyway, this is an example of using a big scarf for an extra wrap and a pop of color.  Last time I flew, I wrapped mine around my head like she has the hoodie here and then wrapped around my neck, 50′s style.  My hair is short and my ears were cold…and it was summertime!  A scarf this large can be wrapped around your shoulders or balled up and used as a pillow.  I probably wouldn’t pull the hood up or even wear it, but that’s just me;)  Flats, jeans, and a trench finish the look out.

Jessica Biel/ Airport

Kate chose a stone colored khaki with a cute ankle roll, a loose weave, black over-sized crewneck sweater, and a white tee underneath.  These pieces are definitely roomy enough to be comfy.  She also chose sandals to trek through the airport in.  And note the oh so chic sunglasses.

Kate Bosworth/ Airport

Rhianna picked a maxi to travel in.  She paired it with cute orange sandals and a big bag with who knows what inside!

Rhianna/ LA Airport

Kate Moss is not traveling here but I love the thought of such a springy look for the plane.  Maybe you’re meeting a special someone at the end of your flight…if so, why not look this cute??  Switch the pump for a pointy toe black flat, add a travel bag, maybe a second layer, and you’re ready to go!

Kate Moss/ London

The main point with these pictures and this post is that they wore outfits.  Being out in public, especially for an extended amount of time calls for real clothing, not lounge wear.  That’s my humble opinion.  Again, sooo easy…..pants or even jeans, real shoes, a couple layers of tops, not major league baseball tees, and a bag.  You can do this!!

Have fun on your spring travels whether it be out west to ski, south to lay on the beach, or maybe D.C. for a school class trip.  Just remember, your choice of clothing does say something about you, and the great thing is, you get to choose what.

I’m available to help you with your packing, personal shopping, or some spring closet clean out….just email or call.  Thanks for reading,

 

 

 

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Nashville Fashion Week and Me

March 25, 2012

It’s finally over.  Although I wasn’t very involved, it was just the right amount for me.  Most of my clients are not interested in Zang Toi or Versace very much, if at all.  But, I do love all aspects of the fashion world;  from the designers, their designs, to whether they sketch or construct, the fabrics they choose, and the process of what’s on the runway making it to our department store.  Even the models.

My job was to cover some daytime events on Tuesday, the nighttime show on Thursday night, and the fashion show at Green Hills Mall today with Tim Gunn.

It was fun, I met some neat people, and I’ll do it again next year if they’ll have me.  But, at the end of the day, I much prefer my work as a stylist to that of high fashion.  It’s more satisfying.   It’s still important to me though that I show you a bit of what I was able to enjoy.  Below are a few of the sights from this past week.  Thanks Alicia Boswell of Fashion Bytes!

My first stop was Gus Mayer to interview Zang Toi….he wouldn’t have his picture made.  He wasn’t dressed “properly”!  His collection for fall 2012 was gorgeous though.  Look at those gowns…oh la la!

 

Zang Toi/Gus Mayer/fall 2012

This is Alicia who invited me to work with them this year.  It was a very windy, very warm, day outside Posh in Green Hills.  I was covering a Rebecca Minkoff trunk show.  She wasn’t there unfortunately.

Alicia and Me

Just one of her too cute pieces you can pick up at Posh.  This bag is definitely street to beach multi-functional!

Rebecca Minkoff/ Diamond Tote/Posh/ $195.00

This next shot is the same day just down the sidewalk at Plucky.  The new boutique opened by Elizabeth Broyhill.  Elizabeth owned Monkee’s at this same location and when that closed, went on to open Plucky.  Very cute stuff.  I almost bought a top but really needed a different size.  She is just as sweet as she looks.  Check it out for sure!   I’m looking very ‘end of the day work weary’ I know!

Elizabeth and Me

Elizabeth and Me

This pic is from the show Thursday night which highlighted local and up coming designers.  I wasn’t really sure what was going on when I walked into the nightclub atmosphere.  No runway!  Each designer had their own curtained off area. Very cool set-up.  Here I am with Bethany Blair and her friend, both in Bethany’s designs.  Precious girl and beautiful, romantic designs.

Me, Bethany Blair, and friend

And this is showing you an example of one of the vignettes the designer Tuft had set up.

Designs by Tuft

And then today…..my fave.  If you watch Project Runway you know these phrases…..”make it work”, “thank-you Mood!” , and “auf wiedersehen”.  Today was the fashion show in Green Hills Mall featuring Kate Spade, Lucky, and Juicy Couture.  Mc’d by the one and only Tim Gunn, the designers’ mentor as they participate in the American Idol of fashion.  The show was great, there was a Q & A, and thanks to Sam Williams-Jetton,  I got my pic with Mr. Gunn.   Take away from the show, color people, color!

Tim Gunn at Green Hills Mall

Two looks from Kate Spade.  Note, color.

Juicy Couture

So, there you have it…..my week wrapped up in a handful of pictures.  Now, back to my regular job:)  A new post coming up on traveling this week.  Clients too!  Hope you all are having a fabulous spring and are enjoying the warm weather.  Call me soon to set up your spring wardrobe edit.  I’m booking into mid April and even have a couple for May.  Talk to you soon.

Oh, and one last pic….a fave. Who’s jealous?

Thanks….

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