The Joy of Spring has Arrived! Tips to Prepare Your Closet

by jlaine on March 26, 2012

Hello Stylish Ones! 

Spring officially arrives on our doorsteps in just a few days, bringing sunnier days, wafts of orange blossom, and the euphoric expectancy of new life! What better time to weed out all the old gunk from your closet, making way for that which is new and fabulous?

To help you as you conquer your closet with a certain joie de vie (you’ll definitely be joyful when you finish the job!), here are my tips for going through the inventory of your closet.

Remember CCFLL:

 

C-Condition: Anything that is looks worn, has holes or stains, or other condition issues needs to go. Now. Before you change your mind.

 

C-Classic/Current: Is this item a classic, beyond trends? Or is it current? Can you still pull it off? If it’s dated, and not in a fabulous, vintage-y way, buh bye.

 

F-Fit/Flattering: Does it fit, AND is it flattering to your figure? I can wear a burlap sack in my size but it’s not so flattering. Plus it’s itchy.

 

L-Lifestyle: What is your current lifestyle? Base the percentage of your wardrobe on where you spend the percentage of your time.

 

L-Love: Tres important! Life is too short for like, or ‘this will do’. Fill your closet with items you love and getting dressed will always be effortless and easy!

 

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Conquer Color in a New Way for Spring 2012

by jlaine on March 26, 2012

Hello Stylish Ones! 

Have you noticed yet? This Spring’s fashion is bursting with color: neons, brights, pastels, oh my! So what’s a Stylish One to do with this profusion of color? Mix it, wear it, have fun, be bold, be demure, be stylish, stand out. Here’s how:

I can’t remember a time in fashion when brights were so bright and plentiful, and yet pastels were making a comeback too, like they are this year. 

Be Demure: I love the idea of pastels with bold colors. 

Start with your boldest shade and then add another that is identical but highly muted:
*colbalt blue jeans with pastel aqua top
*a blush pink dress with a fuchsia clutch
*an orange top with a pale peach necklace 

Be Neighborly: Use your analogous colors on the color wheel together (these sit right next to each other).

*kelly green pants with a blue bag
*a red and purple patterned top
*a yellow dress with an orange belt 

Be the ‘Wow’ Factor: Not for the faint of heart, this is where you’ll use Complimentary Colors (which are across from each other on the color wheel) to really get your stylish point across!

*purple top with bright yellow accessories
*orange dress with bright blue blazer
*olive green jacket with a red patent bag

Now remember, you can taper the amount of color to your style and personality. You may want to start small, by finding these combinations in patterns, or with accessories such as scarves, rings, bracelets, necklaces, and bags.

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Love is in the Air: Dressing Sexy Do’s and Don’t's

by jlaine on March 26, 2012

Hello Stylish Ones!Happy soon-to-be Valentine’s Day! Whether you’re married or single, everyone can use some tips on how to dress their sexy, sensual best.

So much style deliciousness to discuss, let’s not delay!Hurrah, you have a big date for Valentine’s Day with your man. Or a man. The first question is (drum roll): What will you wear?

My rule for dressing sexy (as you’ve heard me preach it here before), is to pick one area to show off. I know it seems like showing all your assets will be the most appealing, but time and again, studies show that men find it more alluring, and interesting, to retain some mystery. In other words, leave something for them to remove.

Another item that is especially sexy, given it’s obvious reference to lingerie, is lace. Running the gamut from super feminine and vintage to bedroom vixen, lace conjures images of the Madonna/Tramp (Good Girl/Bad Girl). But don’t get me started on Freud. Just take my word for it: whether it’s gloves, a lace dress or blouse, or a pair of tights, lace is always a sensual choice. Lucky for you, albeit a classic, lace is everywhere again this Spring. Options abound, rejoice!

Red is deemed the most passionate color and most obvious choice for the occasion. If you choose to don another, less obvious color in your choice of dress, consider adding red in your nails, your shoes or your clutch. Red lips are super gorge, but if you plan on smooching the night away it can create a scary after effect on both your faces. Better evaluate that one per situation. How much making out are you expecting apres dinner?

If you’re looking for something outside the basic LBD (Little Black Dress) or BRD (Basic Red Dress), consider white. Not normally associated with Valentine’s Day, white is sure to stand out and cause a stir, especially when paired with black or red lingerie! White is everywhere and everything this Spring, which again brings options aplenty.

 
The spectacular Iris Apfel and hubby.

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This Spring 2012 is a Denim Wonderland!

by jlaine on March 26, 2012

Hello Stylish Ones!

Long gone are the antiquated days of dreary denim, where you had a few styles or washes to choose from, where fashion trended only dark jeans or light. This Spring, step into a whole new magical world which I like to call: A Denim Wonderland!

Oh the joy, the revelry of denim S/S ’12, where anything and everything is possible! Here are some of my favorite denim options that I can’t wait to unleash on an unsuspecting public.

1. Flowered Denim

Big bright flowers splashed aplenty on a white, black or blue jean backdrop….what could herald the return of Spring any better than this? Step aside, Easter bunny!

2. Waxed Denim

I am in love with this shiny, leather-esque finish. Vince brand does waxed to perfection, and I’m in luscious wait for H&M or Target to bring us this finish at a lower price point.

3. Colored Denim

Most people already know of this trend, my fashion crystal ball predicts staying power. If you’re bold, pair ‘em with a bright, patterned top. A little more demure? Ground that bright pair with neutrals. Or, do both, like this chic denim diva in the photo below!
4. Printed Denim
From baroque prints to snakeskin to leopard, every print your fabulous fashion heart desires is yours this Spring. Bon Appetit!
 
When it comes to body shapes, here are a couple tips to keep in mind for buying denim:

What length jean should I wear?

Full length jeans will always make your legs look longer, whether you are 5’1″ or 5’11″. If you are petite, the new, cropped cigarette style jeans will cut you off at the leg, making you appear shorter. I’m not saying you can’t wear these styles, just remember I told you so!

Can I wear these styles if I’m bottom endowed?

Yes, you can!
If you carry your weight in your derriere avoid pockets, heavy stitching, bling, or anything else that adds volume or draws attention to that area. 
Light colors will always add extra weight, so if you are really intent on minimizing your bottom half, look for darker colored jeans, or floral jeans that have a smaller print. That being said, I know many a sassy, curvy Gal that can pull off colored denim with great aplomb.

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I Dream of Tangerine: Tips for Wearing Brights this Spring 2012!

by jlaine on March 26, 2012

Hello Stylish Ones!

Recently I was on the Fox 10 morning show to talk about the announcement of Spring’s newest ‘It’ color: Tangerine! As Pantone, the color authority, describes it: “Tangerine, a spirited reddish orange, continues to provide the energy boost we need to recharge and move forward.”

Tangerine is a fancy way of saying ‘Orange’, and orange is always a winning staple in my style book. 
If the thought of orange drums up visions of construction cones and Halloween, fear not! I have tips on incorporating this stylish hue, and other vivids, into your wardrobe this Spring.

1. Start Small and Simple

If you’re a little gun shy, consider adding one or two small pieces, max, to your wardrobe. That could be a pair of sunnies, clutch, bangle or wrap bracelets, or shoes that have a small dose of color blocked into the design. Lipgloss and nail polish are another way to dip your toe into the tangerine waters.

2. Tangerine shines with neutrals! 

White and it’s varieties are wonderful with this shade, a perfect canvas for it to pop. Camel, grey, and navy blue are other wonderful options to pair with this bright. A bright dose of color will make your neutrals come to life! My advice to avoid: large amounts of black, it’s too sharp against orange, and too Halloween-esque.

3. Bring on the Bag

So many women think they need a black or brown bag to ‘go with everything’. Instead, consider adding a purse in tangerine to your wardrobe for S/S. As discussed, it makes your neutrals come alive, and will go with soooo much more than you ever dreamed.

4. Play with Prints

Prints are a perfect place to introduce a bright color in a more muted way. Find a large or small dose according to your style, and then ground the look with neutrals.

5. Bold with Blue

Orange and blue are complimentary colors, which means they sit across from each other on the color wheel. As such, they make each other pop and seem more intense. If you want to go all out with orange, mix it with a vibrant, electric blue! Even softer shades of blue, like your favorite blue jeans, will look great with this hue.

One last note: If this color is decidedly not for you, if it doesn’t resonate with you in any way, then just choose another vibrant color that suits you. This Spring, a plethora of brilliant brights are out there for you to experiment and play with!

 

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Secrets for Throwing a Clothing Swap Extravaganza!

by jlaine on March 26, 2012

Hello Stylish Ones! 

Now that the holidays are over, do you have a few gifts that sitting in a pile labeled ‘things I would never use or want’? Even though these were given in love, and it really is the thought that counts, if it’s clothing or something else personal that doesn’t resonate with you, don’t guilt yourself into wearing it for sentimental reasons. Instead, throw a clothing swap party and let that item go forth with someone that will really love and enjoy it!
Clothing swaps are fabulous for getting rid of the dead weight in your closet as well (dead weight=things you never wear).
Here are my tips for throwing a fabulous, clothing swap bash!
I’ve researched clothing swap parties, and there are many different theories and approaches. My thought is to be inclusive, and make it fun for all, where everyone leaves with something new to love.

1. Invite a variety of women and sizes. 
A mix of ages and sizes keep it interesting. I’ve seen older women bring vintage items that younger women are eager to snatch up!
That being said, when you prepare your list of who to invite, make sure there will be sizes for everyone. Don’t invite 12 of your size 4 friends and then one size 18. 
Usually a group of 12-15 women is ideal. Since it’s a known fact that some people will RSVP and not show, invite 20 guests and then adjust your list as the RSVP’s come in.

2. Be specific with your invite
Let everyone know to bring these items specifically: new items that haven’t been worn, or items that are very gently used. Anything with holes or stains is not allowed. Accessories and shoes are most welcome, provided they, too, are in good condition.
To insure you have plenty of merchandise, you may want to specify a minimum amount of items (at least 5). 

3. Plan your dressing room 
For the party itself, have an extra room set up where your guests can change. If you don’t have a portable clothing rack, the bedroom closet can come in handy. Clear out some space for the clothes to be displayed. For accessories and shoes, set up a table and arrange the items there.

4. How does this work?
Now for the fun to begin! When your guests arrive, give them a card with the number of items that they brought. They have the option of leaving with the same amount of items, or more, if there are extras. 
After light nosh and bubbly, go around the room and have each woman describe what she brought, and why she’s deciding to part with said item. 
Now, have each guest draw a number out of a hat. Number 1 gets to choose one item, number 2 gets to choose one item, and so forth. After everyone has had one turn, it starts with number 1 again for several cycles until everyone is done. Afterward, if there are still items left, you can open it up to your guests to choose more pieces if they desire. But remember, the goal isn’t to go home with more ‘dead weight’ or stuff that you don’t really want. The goal is to exchange up, for pieces that you love!
To add a little spice to the party, you can opt to tape a ‘Joker’ or wild card under one guest chair. At the end of the party, the person with the Joker has the option of taking one piece from anyone in the room if they desire. However, they have to trade it for one of their items. 

5. Get a Post Party Plan
Get everyone’s approval for any items left apres party. Donating any leftovers to a charity is always a great choice. 

Lastly, yes, there will be guests that bring a Marc Jacobs handbag, and those that bring something from Forever 21. Just remember that the real purpose of this party isn’t the price point of these items, but having fun with your friends and encouraging everyone to leave with at least one new cherished item!

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Good, Better, Best: Which Fits Your Style?

by jlaine on March 26, 2012

Hello Stylish Ones!

And Happy New Year! Don’t you just love the smell, look, and feel of a brand new baby year? Today I want to talk to you about ditching any old, leftover style that no longer serves you from last year and instead, evolving into your very best style in 2012.
Oftentimes it’s easy to get in a style rut. We’ve always bought skinny jeans, and so we own 25 pair. We’ve always worn that top with that skirt, and so it’s easy to reach for that same outfit every time. 
Get ready to shake it up! I’m going to introduce you to the concept of Good, Better, and Best. Which category do you fit into? Why best, of course!
In the world of antiques, there’s a theory known as Good, Better, and Best. Basically, there are certain qualities that collectors, dealers and museums look for that separate a $50,000 piece of early American furniture from a $500,000 rarity. 
I believe in the GBB concept for your style as well. 
If you pair your LBD with your basic black pumps and a black bag, that is good. There’s certainly nothing wrong with this look. But let’s think outside the all black box, shall we? How would we take the style quotient up a notch to better?
I propose switching out the black clutch for one in hot pink satin, or adding a pair of bright or jeweled pumps. Better, n’est-ce pas?
Let’s roll the dice one more time and go for best. I’ll see your satin clutch and also raise you a dazzling pair of chandelier earrings.
There we have it: Best! End scene.

So what are the rules for GBB? Isn’t it grand to know there are no rules? Let’s call them concepts.

Concept 1: If you’ve worn that combination of items more times than you can count, decide that it’s time to switch it up. What interesting, new articles can you add or delete to make it different? What would make it better? What would make it best? Listen to your intuition, what stretches you outside your typical style box, even a little bit?

Concept 2: When you hit ‘Best’, stop! Don’t keep adding more stuff. More definitely doesn’t equal better. It equals too much. How will you know? Pick one piece to be the stand out, the star. The other pieces are supporting cast members, they reflect the star’s brilliance but they don’t compete directly for that space.

Concept 3: The GBB game is best played when you have a little time to experiment in front of a mirror. Go crazy, try unique (even strange) combinations, I promise you will have a marvelous time. And you’re bound to discover something new, something different, and something that reflects stepping into your best style in 2012!

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Style Tips: Day into Night in 30 Seconds or Less!

by jlaine on December 28, 2011

Hello Stylish Ones!

Well, the race is on. Actually the race has been underway for some time now. You run from the office to the dry cleaner to the post office to your office holiday party/friend’s Christmas party/family get together/happy hour with someone you haven’t seen all year/insert further mayhem here.
So how’s a Stylish One to start the day at 6am and still look effortlessly stylish and glowing at 8pm and beyond? 

As always, I have a few special 30 second style tricks up my sleeve pour vous…

Change your Bag:

For the love of all that is good and right, do not schlep your monster bag into the evening hours, no matter how Prada fabulous it may be.

For a chic look that reads: “I’ve been lounging at home all day and decided to arise only to grace the world with my j’amazing presence” tuck a little leopard, sequin, or bejeweled clutch into your repertoire. Fill it with the necessities: lip gloss, mad money, driver’s license, Altoids. C’est fini.

Change your Tights:

Yes, I’ll admit this may take more than 30 seconds, but it can be done. I timed myself. Last week I mentioned that opaque, patterned tights are best for the office, but after hours it’s a fashion free for all. Lace, fishnet, sexy little numbers are begging to be donned by your gorgeous gams!

Check your Jewelry:

This time of year, especially, there’s no reason to be conservative when it comes to jewelry. Remember the rule of one: choose one area to adorn, and then go all out! Whether a chunky statement necklace or a stack of bracelets, take some risks and have fun.

Check your Shoes:

Here’s a dead giveaway that you need a fashion intervention: your ho-hum black work pumps paired with your glamorous evening attire. Tout suite, change into leopard ankle boots, glittered pumps, or anything else that strikes your fashion fancy.

Check your Nails:
If your late night wrapping binges have left your nails a mess, add a quick coat of a glitter polish, such as those by Essie or Deborah Lippman. Another bonus: glitter polish lasts much longer than regular polish.

Add some  Glow:
The dry winter air mixed with heaters this time of year = disaster for your skin. Take a luminizer and some moisturizer and slather it on your face, hands, legs, anything you’re showing off for the evening. You’ll be ready to glow, er, go!

 

Catherine Zeta-Jones has D-I-N perfected!

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Shine On! Secrets to Banish Boring Office Fashion

by jlaine on December 28, 2011

Hello Stylish Ones!

Black trousers. Grey skirt. White button up. Navy cardigan. Yawn. It all adds up to a whole lot of boring. 

But wait! Haven’t I been the one all along preaching the virtues of basic, classic items?

Yes, with a twist.

Imagine being in the kitchen and eating a cup of flour. Awful, right? Now imagine eating a luscious lemon bar, or peanut butter brownie. Mais oui! It’s the same principle, you need other ingredients for your basics, otherwise they are sorely lacking, much like that sickeningly bland cup of flour.

You, Stylish One, are looking to unleash your peanut butter brownie personality and unique lemon bar style fingerprint on the world. Here are some tips for you on how to do just that. Bon Appetit!

1. This fall the trend is Color!
 A bright pair of tomato red trousers, brilliant blue blouse, or tangerine clutch will add zest to your classic greys and camel colors. Moreover, these items will segue effortlessly into Spring and even Summer.

2. Ditch the one-dimensional boring Black Bag
Opt for structured, classic style bag with mixed textures, such as black patent and floral fabric, or camel and snakeskin. You’ll be amazed at how utilitarian this type of bag can be, and it will bring instant style and panache to your work wardrobe.

3. Add a Tie or Scarf for instant chic
A man’s tie, tied slightly askew, is playful and unexpected. Or choose a scarf instead, for a burst of color around your face (better than a cup of coffee) and extra style points!

4. Mix it up with Patterns and Textures
Herringbone and plaid are genius choices for skirts, trousers, even pumps! Try for yourself and see all the options you’ll have to pair with these, and other patterns as well. For texture, chiffon with a chunky knit or a touch of lace with a basic wool jersey, and touches of leather, even fur, bring your style to life. C’est une belle vie!

5. Statement Jewelry: it’s for a reason
Need a quick style fix when you don’t have 2 seconds to rub together? Don your best statement necklace with your basic pieces for an easy, confident look.

6. Instant Style: just add Tights
So many patterns and styles to choose from, it’s hard to pick just one….so don’t! Go office appropriate with opaque tights in various patterns, but never any cut out, lacy, or fishnet, save those for your apres work style.

7. Makeover your Casual Friday
Banish the jeans and sneaks, instead get ready for a fab and stylish weekend with jeggings/leggings, a cozy sweater, and (my fave!) tall riding boots.


Photo: Harper’s Bazaar

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My Fashion Rebellion: Finding Your Anti-”It”

by jlaine on December 28, 2011

Hello Stylish Ones! 

Remember how several years ago the “it” bags made a big splash? Known for their preposterous waiting lists, celebrity cult status, and indulgent price tags to rival that of a Smart Car, fashion seekers far and wide became rabid to be  tagged “it” by having the “it” bag. Soon enough, the “it” bag turned into the “it” shoe or boot, the “it” sunglasses, “it” jeans, it it it, ad naseum and etcetera.

Which makes me wonder: When is it finally time to step up to our own individual style and stop “it-ting” on ourselves?So who decides on this “it” status anyhow? Between celebrity sightings, fashion editors, over zealous bloggers, and every product now claiming they’re the next “it” (yawn), I’m ready to rebel and take a stand for my own style! As always, I hope you’ll join me in the anti-it revolution.

Case in point, I recently came across a fun little bag from the 1990′s that had a certain style and je ne sais quois. So I snatched it up for a mere $9 at a consignment store. Jealous? Don’t be, there’s plenty more fun where that came from.

Exhibit deux, another quirky bag find that is made from old Morrocan rugs. It’s got some issues, to be sure, but I know that I know that I know there’s not another one like it, and it’s got all that tribal ethnic chic-ness that I j’adore.These are at home in my closet amongst my Pradas, Marcs, and other gorgeous bags that were once so “it”. Interesting how I no longer reach for those, but for my one of a kind, bargain bags instead.

Maybe it’s that I’m so weary of being told what to do in fashion, what to wear, who to be. I know who I am, and how to express it, thank you very much. Carrying a certain bag isn’t going to make me a better person, more savvy or smart, and contrary to what the ads show, men aren’t going to fall at my feet because of such-and-such bag (don’t I wish?)

I hope you’ll join me in the anti-it revolution by letting your own style intuition guide you in what to buy, wear, and express. There’s no crime in asking for help if you’re a bit confused (that’s my job!) but don’t let anyone tell you that you can only be fabulous if you have a certain “it” possession.

Because, Stylish One, you’ve already got “it” way, way going on.

Hmong embroidered bag

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