Bathing Suits

I know: It is hardly bathing suit season, but I am eager to share a brilliant website with you: Freya Swimwear.

Why is it brilliant? Because the sizing is based on one's bra size. This means you do not have to squeeze into a top made for a less busty gal or have a bikini top fit your cup size but be loose around your body. This means you can have a Goldilocks "just right" experience when you put on your swimsuit. Imagine!

Sure you can wait until you are ready to plunge into bathing suit shopping, knowing you have a new, fantastic resource. Hooray for Freya!

One Woman Defines "Style"

I like to learn what fashion writers and clothing designers see as the difference between style and fashion. They describe fashion as the clothing and accessories rolled out each season. Style is different. Style is what people do with fashion to make it their own. You can have terrific style on a budget and spend a lot on dressing horribly.

Novelist Carol Edgarian states: "Style says, 'This is who I am--this is my signature, my voice, my scent, my colors, the cut I like best. This is me, good as I am.'"

Personal style evolves over time--at least it should. Do you think about your style? Or do you think about wanting to find a style that is right for you? Ultimately, when a person has found her style, and is mindful of it each day, getting dressed for any occasion and shopping become a pleasure and a snap. With Wardrobe Wisdom, I help women identify their style, and make their closet reflect their best selves.

Shopping Santa Barbara--5

Sorry about that ghost post!

On Friday a good friend and I strolled State Street. We had finished our holiday shopping and were happy to go in and out of stores at our leisure. I was delighted to discover a fairly new shop tucked into La Arcada court: Coast 2 Coast Collection.

This store was filled with sparkly treasures. What caught my eye were the incredibly ornate and dressy clutches. Each one showcased beautiful beadwork or embroidery, the next one even more gorgeous than the last. I cannot imagine a better source for a one-of-a-kind evening bag to wear to a special event. Perhaps a New Year's Eve party!

Clothes as Autobiography

From one of my favorite books, The Thoughtful Dresser, by Linda Grant:

"If you were to gather together all the clothes you have ever owned in all your life. . . you would have your autobiography. As if the textile itself has memory, formed as it is out of its intimate closeness with our bodies, a coat or a dress or a pair of trousers is a witness to the fact that once we went for a job interview, or on a hot date. Or that we got married. . . The clothes we wear, they comfort and protect us; they allow us to be who we want to be. They tell others what we want them to hear. We come to understand whether or not we can depend on them."

I ponder quoting this passage when people tell me they don't care about clothes, or that it is superficial to like fashion. Our clothes do matter.

If You Believe in Signs

Here are the signs that onlineorganizing.com lists to determine that a piece of clothing should not go back in your closet:

1. It is more than one size too small for you

2. It was last in fashion about 20 years ago

3. You constantly tug and pull at it while wearing

4. It is itchy, scratchy, binding, or just uncomfortable

5. The color or print isn't flattering on you

6. The style makes you feel unattractive

7. You haven't worn it in over a year and it's not a special occasion item

8. It needs to be cleaned or altered or repaired

9. You always find an excuse not to pick that outfit to wear

10. You just don't like wearing it!

I think that any 3 of these signs are telling you to get rid of an item, so take a look at your closet and do some editing! I am happy to help if you need encouragement.

Organic Cotton

I am all for organic foods and try to feed my family healthy meals (much to my daughters' dismay). Is it more expensive to buy organic? Yes and no. Though organic produce may cost more, its health benefits pay off in the long run.

What about organic cotton, denim's latest update? The processes denim goes through to get that worn in, cool look are astonishingly detrimental to the environment. Here are some statistics, from Marie Claire magazine:

- 1,500 gallons of water are required to produce 1.5 pounds of cotton--the amount it takes to make one pair of jeans.

- Cotton fields claim 25 percent of all insecticides sprayed worldwide.

- Synthetic dyes used to give jeans their trademark indigo hue often leach into nearby water and soil, destroying plant and animal life.

Buying organic denim jeans does not need to break your wardrobe bank. Patagonia (shown above) offers a pair for $79. Stella McCartney's jeans, on the other hand, are $415! So give some thought to going organic when it comes to making your next jeans purchase.

Paying Retail

I don't enjoy hunting for clothes, digging through piles of shirts to find one I like. Spending hours combing the racks of discount stores is not how I like to kill time. And I get grouchy the minute I enter an outlet mall. However, I do enjoy saving money which is why I like consignment stores so much, especially well- curated ones such as Lola and Renaissance in Santa Barbara, Traci and Laura's in Solvang, and Finders Keepers in San Luis Obispo. Wonderful Alpha Thrift stores in Santa Barbara and Goleta are also well-organized and pleasant places to shop.

In this month's Esquire magazine, David Granger makes the case for paying retail. Many people (including my husband!) equate paying retail with getting ripped off. But Granger says this about our relentless pursuit of deals: "We settle for things we kind of maybe would consider owning. Services we might maybe someday use. We compete for crap at 60 percent off."

I urge you to read Granger's short column and to give some thought to the true meaning of a bargain: getting a real discount on something you really want.

Tangerine Tango

Oh, goody! The Pantone Group, responsible for establishing the colors we will see from blouses to picture frames next year, has chosen a bright orange-red ("Tangerine Tango") for its color of 2012. How do I look in orange-red? Like a corpse. I tried really hard to wear a light orange sherbet color one summer when I had a deep tan. Not a winning look.

What are the other colors will be trendy? Go here and learn what to expect from designers this spring and summer. And if you look good in Tangerine Tango, have a ball!

Valentino Virtual Museum

What on earth is a virtual museum? According to Giancarlo Giammetti, Valentino Garavani's long-time business partner, "Animated galleries show a life's work, and hundreds of key dresses have been photographed revolving 360 degrees to show every line and stitch. One click on the dress and the user can discover its history—who wore it, where, and when. Five thousand documents, photos, and 190 videos make up the Museum's database."

In a previous post, I raved about the gorgeous movie, "Valentino: The Last Emporer." I was struck dumb by the art and genius behind Valentino's exquisite designs. Now I can view his creations via my computer. Go here to read more about this unique museum.

Rainy Day

It's cold and chilly (by SB standards) today. What I want to wear when I run errands is my flannel pajama bottoms, my cozy Ugg boots, and a fleece sweatshirt. No one would bat an eye; I see women wearing this all the time at Trader Joe's, on State Street, at the farmers' market. The sight of women in their pajamas, sloppy sweats, and slippers is dispiriting to me.

So I am going to put on a pair of jeans, my largely waterproof Puma ballet flats, a t-shirt and pretty sweater, and a raincoat. Wardrobe Wisdom is about taking care of oneself, caring to take the time to look put together and happy about being out in the world.

Too Big for Fashion?

The other day I was chatting with a cashier at Trader Joe's. She asked me what I did for a living and I told her all about Wardrobe Wisdom. She listened carefully and then responded, "But you never have advice for big gals like me, right? That's why I've just given up on buying nice clothes."

I have heard this sort of comment more than once and it elicits several thoughts and responses. The first is from a good friend who is a "big gal." She has told me that she loves clothes and loves to look great but hates shopping. I used to shop for her when she lived in town. Another feeling is sadness for the women who have simply "given up" on caring about their appearance. I also get frustrated with the fashion industry for often ignoring the plus size demographic.

Here is the advice I give to those women who struggle with finding clothes in their size:

Do some reading to learn what styles and fabrics will be most flattering for your figure. I recommend The Pocket Stylist by Kendall Farr and Dress Your Best by Clinton Kelly and Stacy London. Both books show what looks work best on plus size women and offer excellent shopping tips. Once you are armed with more knowledge on what to look for, it's time to shop.

Yes, you must enter some stores and try clothing on! I realize that this has been a frustrating and emotionally draining process in the past. But once you find the styles that work for you, your shopping experience will change for the better. I recommend starting at Nordstrom, where you will get good customer service and can on quality pieces. Even if this clothing is out of your budget, you will know what to look for when you shop elsewhere. Though Talbots does not carry its plus-size line in Santa Barbara, the saleswomen at the La Cumbre store will be more than happy to help you figure out what clothes will suit you best and can help you order them online, right there in the store.

If you are comfortable shopping online, here are some sites I recommend:

Gayla Bentley

One Stop Plus

Avenue

IGIGI

and Talbots

The fashion industry creates clothing that very few women can wear off the rack. Unfortunately, this is not likely to change in the near future. What can change is your attitude toward getting dressed. With some research and careful shopping, you can feel better about how you look in clothing, and begin taking better care of yourself. You are worth it!

Spa-liday Party

I can think of at least 3 people, including my dear mom, who can use some pampering right now. It's time to book an appointment for a luxuriating massage or rejuvinating facial. Each time I have enjoyed one of these services from the talented Roxanne Zbinden, at Cielo Spa, I have felt like a new woman!

This Saturday, Roxanne is having a special party at Cielo, from noon to 3 PM. Go here for more details and take care of yourself!

December!

This can be a nutty time of year for a lot of us. Enter Sara Caputo, of Radiant Organizing, and her incredibly useful tips for maintaining sanity in December. A great read!

How Many?

Hmm. I wonder if she has enough shoes?

When I am going through a closet during a Wardrobe Wisdom consultation, I get asked about numbers a lot. How many shoes do I really need? How many suits should I have? How many black pants do I need to have? Without exception, every woman has had more in her closet than she needs, and a lot more than she actually wears.

It is difficult for me to give numbers when so much depends on a person's lifestyle and budget. The experts who wrote Harper's Bazaar's book, Great Style, did come up with a list that I think is pretty good. Here it is:

4 sweaters (2 work-worthy and 2 for weekends)

7 tees (short and long sleeves, tanks, and turtlenecks)

4 coats and jackets (1 elegant coat, 1 sporty outerwear jacket, 1 classic trench, and 1 day-to-night jacket)

2 tops for every skirt and pant (1 dressed-up and 1 casual style)

4 pants, 4 skirts (2 office and evening appropriate and 2 informal)

1 suit (for every season, that you can wear together or separately)

5 dresses (2 for day, 1 short for cocktails, 1 long for formal, and 1 special knock-'em-dead frock)

4 jeans (1 slim cut for a cleaner look, 1 relaxed fit for laid-back days, 1 ankle length for flats, and 1 longer pair for higher heels)

What do you think of this list? So much depends on what your regular activities and work requirements are. I don't think everyone needs 5 dresses. What if you don't like dresses? Still, I think this list is okay as a starting point to think about what you really need.

Thank You

I am thankful for my wonderful husband and two smart, beautiful, loving girls. I am thankful for my parents who live nearby. I am thankful (except during these past 3 months!) for my health and for being able to live in Santa Barbara.

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog and for following Wardrobe Wisdom.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Holiday Parties

Necklace from Talbots ($49!)

Boden's ideas for what to wear to holiday festivities are, of course, wonderful. But before you spend a small fortune at Boden or elsewhere, please do one if not both of these things:

1. Survey what you already have that can be worn to holiday gatherings and parties. Would just one accessory or a new top help create some new looks?

2. Survey your friends' closets! What do they have that you can borrow this season? Be sure to open your closets to them as well, and when you return what you borrowed, make sure it is in pristine condition, dry-cleaned if necessary.

3. Shop consignment stores. You can find beautiful clothing, jewelry, scarves and sparkly purses at these places for a fraction of their original cost. Alpha Thrift Stores in Santa Barbara are also places to hunt for original, sparkly jewelry.

I just purchased a pretty sparkly brooch that I plan to wear to my holiday events. I am also going to wear some fun stockings with my velvet skirts to update them, and I will wear some sequined headbands I got on sale at J. Crew at the end of the season last December.

Santa Barbara Shopping--4

Yesterday I met a good friend for lunch at Scarlet Begonia in Santa Barbara. YUM! Then we strolled around Victoria Court, stopping in wonderful consignment store Lola, and a terrific store called Punch. If you are in search of something new and reasonably priced to add spice to your holiday wardrobe, head to Punch.

When my cousin was here from Germany over the summer, I could not wait to take her to Punch. I knew that its funky vibe, mix of vintage and new, and cool decor would be right up her alley. Was I ever right! We must have spent over an hour in that store. Punch is filled with cool little trinkets, that would make splendid, original gifts. Gina purchased some funny vintage-inspired magnets and a big, white cocktail ring. I tried on a lovely Nanette Lepore blouse and some great hats.

This week the store was decked out for Christmas, with glittery ornaments from the 1950s onward, and a pink feather Christmas tree. What I was focused on, though, were the number of sparkly, beautiful brooches, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets that would add some festivity to a holiday outfit. I also noticed all the chic sequined tops, skirts, blouses, and little purses. There were some darling little velvet caplets and a bolero as well. None of these items were expensive, and each would add the perfect, unique touch to an outfit.

So head into Punch and prepare to be dazzled! (And grab a bite at Scarlet Begonia, too.) And, in case you were wondering, neither place has paid me for my endorsement.

Parties and Gifts

With the holidays approaching, the party invitations begin to arrive. I was watching The Chew the other day and liked the Clinton Kelly segment on what to and not to bring as hostess gifts. This is a departure from my usual Wardrobe Wisdom musings, but I think you will find his guidelines timely and helpful.

1. Do not bring a bouquet of flowers. When a hostess is handed a bouquet, she must leave her party in search of a vase, cut the stems, fill up the vase. . . Kelly suggests instead to send a pretty bouquet that day, already in its own vessel. Or better yet, send flowers the next day, along with a thank you note for the party.

2. Do bring a dish of something to eat if the hostess has asked you to. Otherwise, your dish may clash with her carefully thought out menu. A lovely hostess gift is a nice box of chocolates. Give the box to the hostess, telling her to enjoy the chocolates later.

3. Do not bring a decorative item unless it is an elegant holiday one that the hostess can use another time. On The Chew, the guest brought a great soup tureen in the shape of a pumpkin.

4. Do bring a bottle of wine but don't expect it to be drunk that evening. She has already chosen wine for her party so let her know the bottle is to enjoy at a later time.

I blush at the memories of bringing my host a big bouquet of flowers and hope to attend a lot of parties this season to make up for my many faut pas.

Scarf Storage

This one is for you, Laura!

It can be so hard to see our scarves sometimes that we forget what we have. Therefore, storing them front and center, in an organized way, is key. Even before you store them, do some weeding out, only keeping the ones you love and want to wear.

The photos here illustrate a couple of ideas for storage. I store mine in neat stacks (up to 5 in each one) on my closet shelves and on a hanger like the one shown here on the right. Some women use pretty hooks or belt holders to store their scarves. If your scarves are made of wool or cashmere, make sure you have some cedar around them to keep away the moths and other critters.

Pantyhose

Thank you for reading this post instead letting the title scare you off. More than one client has asked me lately if pantyhose are now back in style. What they really want to know is if they are required to wear the dreaded things!

Kate Middleton, of all people, a young, beautiful, hip woman, is the one I hold responsible for this resurgence in leg wear. When she puts on a lovely dress or skirt ensemble, she usually wears pantyhose. I must say that she always looks polished and appropriate, like a princess should be! And that is what pantyhose do: They finish an outfit, giving it an air of professionalism and polish.

For those of you who automatically put on hose when you went to work, wearing hose now may not seem like a big deal. Many women feel better, more together and attractive in pantyhose. Still others swore they would never wear hose again once bare legs became the norm.

So I say that once again you have freedom to skip or participate in this trend. If you feel good in pantyhose, by all means, wear them. If you are like me and only remember the urge to pull them up all the time and the aggravation at how easily they ran, opt for other leg wear. Beautiful, interesting tights and hose are available now (like the ones above from Nordstrom) in all sorts of patterns and colors. They are an instant way to update an outfit and are more durable than traditional pantyhose.

Fashion Tips

InStyle magazine's Makeover 2011 issue had the usual plugs for certain beauty products and clothing must haves. It also included a feature titled "The 50 Best Fashion Tips of All Time." I was eager to cast my critical eye on this feature and was happy to see that the tips were quite practical and practicable.

Here are a few of the best:

1. White cotton button downs "elevate jeans and keep ball skirts from drifting into fantasyland. Buy three and refresh regularly."

2. Accessorize in brights when "you've got a closet full of neutrals."

3. "Hem your pants to a specific shoe height. Hem to either heels or flats--no going back." I have jeans hemmed to flip flop and ballet length and others hemmed to platform or pumps length.

4. "Always check out the rear view. And don't leave the house until you like what you see. Every angle matters."

5. "Consider the wear and care. Don't shell out for clothes you can't, or won't take care of. If you know you'll never hand wash that embellished sweater or fancy bra, walk away."

I would add that you should only hand wash your bras and delicates, using a gentle detergent, such as Forever New, which I purchase at Purrmission Lingerie in Santa Barbara.

Style as Art

What goes through my mind when I see women on the street in outfits that do nothing for their figure? I impulsively begin to make them over from top to bottom: She can wear a knit v-neck top instead of the tube top; she can switch the micro-mini for a flowy maxi skirt; instead of those cheap-looking flats, she can wear a nice pair of beaded platform sandals. . . Sometimes I merely marvel at the sheer confidence required to wear certain garments when the finished result shows rolls of fat and less-than toned legs and arms. Bravo!

The women I am in most awe of are the ones who have clearly taken some time to choose their outfits, and though their finished product may not reflect my taste, I cannot help but applaud their self-possessed sense of style. As stated in Harper's Bazaar, "Our personal style is the most important work of art that most of us will ever create."

How true! I am not likely to produce a brilliant novel or a extraordinary painting, but I can be artful in how I dress every day. We all can, by choosing to add beauty and wit to our look with interesting accessories and fantastic clothing. Last night I was thinking about style and art as I got dressed for a play I was attending with my mom. My outfit needed something as it was rather monochromatic. So I added a sparkly blue rhinestone brooch to my scarf and voila! I had created a little work of art.

At its best, art elevates our everyday experiences, makes us stop and appreciate something beautiful and/or striking, and makes us feel alive. Think of this the next time you are getting dressed.

Scarf Time

I love wearing scarves but have tired of the 5 ways I tend to wear them. Thanks to Sophie, I learned 25 ways of tying scarves via this brilliant YouTube video.

Wendy, the scarf genius, will go far. She makes excellent videos and has a great sense of style.

Scarves shown from Garnet Hill

C-R-A-Z-Y Shoes!

Straight from the spring fashion shows, check out these wild shoes via Bill Cunningham.

Wise Words

From Father to My Style:

" The memory of bad quality lasts longer than the shock of high prices."

Makeup Party

We had a splendid time this week at my house, learning some useful skincare and makeup tips from highly regarded makeup artist Cara Maccianti. She places an emphasis on taking care of our skin, always wearing sunscreen, and washing our faces well every night. I loved learning how to properly apply my foundation (with a brush! Practice, practice). Everyone enjoyed getting one on one advice regarding what makeup is most suitable for our skin and hearing what Cara's favorite products are. The evening was a great success!

On the topic of makeup, go here to see some inspirational photos of makeup brush storage ideas. There are always loads of pretty vessels for brushes at Anthropologie, such as the one pictured above. I have also found interesting glassware at thrift stores.

Fall Trends

Here is a good round-up of fall trends. Which ones will you participate in? I am liking the plaid jumper from Boden (bottom) and this one from Garnet Hill (on top). I am sucker for dresses, though!

Hats

Photo from Nordstrom.com

Every few years designers try to get American women to wear hats. This attempt usually fails, but I am hoping that hats will catch on this season. Look how many women donned fedoras these last couple of years.

When I spoke at a women's club over the summer, many of the women there wore smashing hats. They looked so put together and chic. When you wear a hat, you look like you know what you are doing; you show you are style savvy.

Look at the great hats at Nordstrom. Then try wearing a hat. I think you may like it!

Off Topic

The following has nothing to do with clothing or fashion, but I want to share it anyway.

Clinton Kelly

Yes, I am a huge fan of his. I even watch his new show "The Chew" though the commercials are insufferable. Once I learned he had a new book, "Oh No She Didn't," I could not wait to get my hands on a copy.

My husband paged through the book and pronounced Kelly a misanthrope, a hater of mankind. True, Kelly does seem to make fun of people's wardrobe foibles with a great amount of glee. But I like to believe that he is sincere in his quest to help women feel better about themselves and clothing. His biting humor is part of his personality, and I must admit to laughing aloud while reading parts of his books and having had some similar thoughts.

Here are some highlights, straight from the book, sans the cutting remarks:

1. The shoe always, always, always sets the tone for the outfit. Hence, you should keep them in good shape by taking them to a cobbler now and then. Once the heels are scuffed up or torn, it's time to toss the shoes.

2. Clothes are designed on dress forms. [The] bust on a dress form is halfway between the shoulder and the elbow. So if you want clothes to fit you better, it would behoove you to hoist your boobies [his word] up to that general position.

3. Pajamas should not leave the house! Is it appropriate to wear a ball gown to work? Is it appropriate to wear a bikini to a PTA meeting? Is it appropriate to attend an animal rights meeting in a mink coat? No, no, and no! If you've got errands to run, throw on some jeans, a blouse, and a cute flat, boot, or sandal.

4. Regular upkeep of your hair is just as important to our appearance as maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

5. The best way to camouflage your rear end is to use what I call the "divide and conquer" technique. Look for tops that hit at the widest part of the tush. If you cover the tush halfway, you bisect the butt, reducing its emphasis by half, and keep the leg line nice and long.

6. When in doubt about the most universally flattering skirt length, aim for the knee.

7. If you cannot remove a stain, the garment is unwearable.

8. There is NO good reason for wearing a platform flip-flop.

9. If a jacket doesn't close, it doesn't fit. And I strongly believe that wearing a jacket that you can't close is psychological torture because you'll be reminding yourself all day I'm too big for this jacket.

10. One of the best secrets of getting more mileage out of your wardrobe budget is to keep your clothes classic but sport a modern bag and shoe.

11. Never, ever, let anyone tell you that because you're a plus size you need big, flowy tops and tent dresses to cover you up. What you need is the opposite. . . You need structure, structure, structure.

12. Shapeless dresses are always unflattering. Look for dresses that have shape built into them (via a V-neck, a high, defined waist, and/or a flared skirt) and let the dress do the work for you.

13. If you are on the short and wide size, skip the cropped pants. Opt instead for Bermuda shorts or long pants.

14. Black is absolutely classic and often sophisticated, but best when used in moderation. Black doesn't make you invisible, and as you mature, black is not very easy on the complexion. Focus on fit before color.

15. Tailor, tailor, tailor!

Capes and Ponchos

I remain undecided about this trend. What do you think?

Poncho from Nordstrom.com

Fashion Week

I will leave it to Bill Cunningham to sum up, via photos and verbal descriptions, the colors that made up the recent Fashion Week. I loved the huge bouquet at Ralph Lauren (and his clothing, too!).

The Good Stuff--Cashmere

Oh, cashmere. . . so soft, so luxurious, so expensive! I read Jesse Thorn's Put This On blog daily. He writes about men's clothing and dressing well, but a lot of his information applies to women's clothing too. Below is what he has to say about cashmere. I could not have put it better.

There’s plenty of passable cashmere on the market today - far more than ever before. You can buy cashmere sweaters for $80 at Costco, $150 at Lands’ End or $198 at J. Crew. That Lands’ End sweater is decent quality, but it’s still expensive, and it’s not the good stuff. It won’t last, look as nice, or feel as good.

As the cashmere market has exploded over the past fifteen years or so, the breadth of quality available has expanded dramatically. All cashmere is not created equal. Cashmere’s quality depends on the quality of the fiber, the quality of the milling, and the quality of the garment’s construction. Don’t fool yourself into thinking that there’s no difference.

Good cashmere is made from the longest fibers. It is dense, resilient and lightweight (though it may be offered in multiple layers, or plys). The texture should almost approach a cotton jersey. It will also (new) be a little less soft than the cheap stuff. The short fibers in cheap cashmere are loose right from the start, so they feel soft to the touch. They’ll pill and tear. The best cashmere feels smooth as much as it feels soft. Go to a super-fancy store, and touch some Loro Piana branded cashmere, and you’ll get a feeling for what I’m talking about.

Of course, great cashmere has become surpassingly expensive. A Loro Piana cashmere sweater can cost as much as $1500, and one by a less-well-advertised maker like Drumohr can still go for $500 or more. Perhaps you can swing this, in which case more power to you, but for most of us, that’s cost-prohibitive.

There is good news, however. Because good cashmere wears so well, and because almost all cashmere was top-of-the-line until fifteen or so years ago, used is a tremendous option.

For $30-60, you can buy a pristine Scottish cashmere sweater (Scottish cashmere, by the way, is what you want), from a luxury maker. Look for something from the 1980s or earlier, with a smooth, tight hand. It should be made in Scotland, either for a fancy store (Saks, Nordstrom, Brooks, Wilkes, Niemans, that kind of thing) or by one of the big Scottish cashmere brands (Pringle, Drumohr, etc.). Look for something sized by chest size, not S-M-L-XL. Focus on the basic colors we’ve identified above [gray, navy, and burgundy]. If it’s pilling, has holes or stains, leave it be.

When you’re shopping, take your time. The perfect piece may not come along right away, but it will come. These are basics, after all.

Once you’ve got your sweater - or sweaters - care for them gently. Hand-wash them only when they really need it (once a year or so). They’ll actually get softer with age. If you wear through the elbows, add patches. If you get a snag, have it rewoven. Take care of them, and they’ll keep you warm and stylish for a healthy chunk of the rest of your life.

photo: Talbots

I Like a Blouse

It's that time of year for stores and magazines to tell us what the "must haves" are this season. Hmm. I think I'll hold off on the super pointy shoes but I am liking all of the pretty blouses.

It took me awhile to figure out that I am not a button down shirt person. Such closet staples seemed like something I would wear all the time with skirts and pants. But I never did and finally realized why: crisp, button down shirts feel uncomfortable and confining on me.

Once I had this epiphany, I found it easy to get rid of these shirts and steered clear of them when I shopped. However, now I am seeing a lot of softer blouses and am re-thinking my shirt aversion. What I like about this year's blouses is the soft drape, nice feeling against my skin, a dressier, more put together look than a knit top, and the fact they don't need ironing!

Is there a style from the past that you've avoided and may want to revisit? It's worth thinking about why you have not worn certain looks and if it's time to give them another chance.

Go for It!

A woman came into Renaissance the other day and tried on a number of jackets. The one she liked the best had rather exaggerated shoulder pads. "Do I look okay in this?" she asked me. Her concern was that the pads were too big for her and that she looked outdated.

I told her that pads come in and out of style and asked if she had worn them before, in the 1980s. "Oh, yes! I loved those jackets from that time. I always felt so good in them."

My advice to her was to buy the jacket, wear it with joy, and forget the trends. I love it when my new job at Renaissance allows me to give people some Wardrobe Wisdom. If you adore a certain style and it makes you feel great, wear it! Your confidence will make your outfit shine.

The New Dickie?

I used to laugh when my mom would talk about dickies--those little faux shirts women in the 50s would wear under sweaters. However, I have noticed that every few years someone tweaks the dickie concept, and it becomes the next great thing.

Today's version is called a "topping" and comes from CeCe. Not being a real blouse person, I had not been interested in such nouveau dickies in the past. Now I realize I am the perfect candidate for a topping because I am not a blouse person. I have hated the bulk, the tucking in, the feeling of confinement, all of that ironing. . . But with the topping, these things are non-issues. Heck, I may give it a try. What do you think?

Now THAT is a System

Every fall and spring I change out my wardrobe. Clothing gets carefully cleaned and folded, then put away in breathable canvas bags containing cedar blocks. It is always thrilling to become reacquainted with my pieces when I take them out of storage. I am fortunate to have a large closet with a lot of space up high where I can store my things. My girls' rooms also have space for me to store some some of my things though they are not always happy with this encroachment.

People often ask me about my husband's closet, assuming that I am a total space hog. I must come clean, so above is a photo of his closet. Let me add that he also has a large wardrobe in which to store his folded items! He also has a lot more dress shirts than are shown here. And he does not complain about this seemingly unfair allocation of space. Of the two of us, he has way more stuff stored in our house.

What is my point? That we use whatever space we have. Women who lug around huge purses know this, as do people who make due with very little space. I was floored by an article I read recently about one woman's clothing storage system that she has turned into a business. It is called Vault Couture and is universes away from the kind of work I do in my own and other's closets. WOW!

Missoni at Target

I have always liked Missoni's iconic zigzag patterns. Each season the designers create beautiful, unusual dresses, skirts, scarves, and many more items. Missoni's price tag has made buying anything from them out of my reach, however. Until now! Today's unveiling of Missoni's partnership with Target means I can get something by this brand at an affordable price. Even a bike! Unfortunately, it seems legions of others are interested in latest collaboration as well, causing Target's website to crash! My curiosity will keep me checking back.

Made for Walking

The other day a supremely chic woman came into Renaissance Fine Consignment, where I now work part-time. She was clearly a clothes-lover, trying on interesting garments and exclaiming with glee when she saw something she liked. I commented on her sandals, since she said she travels around the world and brings only two pairs. This led to her giving them a rave review. I checked them out and think they would be just right for times you know you will be on your feet and/or doing a lot of walking. San Miguel shoes are good-looking (overall) and comfortable. I know because this customer let me try hers on. I just had to know!

Clever Video

What a wonderfully creative video, featuring a man and a woman dancing through 100 years of fashion in London. Love it!

Accentuate the Positive

In my work with Wardrobe Wisdom clients, I have heard women complain about nearly every part of their bodies. Sometimes I feel I am in junior high school again with all this self-criticism, and I feel sad. We are so hard on ourselves!

The words below, taken from Diane Pemberton-Sikes' blog, are good reminders about looking at our selves in a positive light.

Instead of feeling down about any imperfections you feel you might have next time you look in the mirror, look for all the amazing features you have that you could be playing up.

What's great about you?

Your face? Your lips? Your hair?

How about your neck? Your back? Or your arms?

What about your waist, your wrists, or your ankles?

I hope you read these words and take them to heart until focusing on your attributes becomes a habit.

The Baguettes of War

Sometimes my interest in food supersedes my interest in what we put on our bodies. And sometimes two of my passions show up simultaneously in unusual ways. A moving and enlightening article, The Baguettes of War, written by Anna Badkhen, appeared in Foreign Policy magazine this month. This following quote helps to explain the photo above: "Snapshots of men wearing their kitchens -- and, indeed, their food -- to confront tanks and tear-gas cannons offered a genuine glimpse into what it is like to live in the ragged margins of the world, not just to die there."

Best Rant Yet on Questionable Footwear Choices

A great piece, posted on Zulkey, made me laugh so hard. I know some of you love Crocs and "barefoot shoes" but I cannot endorse them from a style standpoint. I cannot even muster a sincere apology for my intolerance. Aren't the above shoes creepy-looking?

Another List!

Style Bakery recently created a list called "10 Classic Pieces Every Woman Should Own" As usual, I read the list with some skepticism. Every woman? How about women like my friend Amy, a marine biologist who spends her days mucking around in swamps and testing water in a lab? How about my cousin Gina, a decorative artist who sands, paints, and builds furniture and smaller pieces for people's homes? Does she "need" a pair of pumps?

Still, such lists can be instructive so let's go over this one before you head to the stores.

1. Pencil Skirt: Designed for non-curvy women who like their legs. Wear with a t-shirt or pretty blouse to work or business events.

2. Blazer: Can pull together many outfits, and can give the illusion of a waist and is flattering on most women. Often needs tailoring to fit just right (get it to fit your shoulders and tailor elsewhere if needed). I feel confined in blazers and rarely wear them. Not that you asked!

3. Trench Coat: This looks sharp and can keep you from getting wet. If you are large busted, avoid double-breased ones. Don't rely on a trench to keep you warm.

4. Cardigan: This piece can keep you warm! Comes in all kinds of styles, materials, and colors. Natural fibers can pill and need a good combing after a few wears. Store your wool and cashmere ones with cedar and hand wash them.

5. Feminine Blouse: Can take the edge of a masculine outfit and looks great under a blazer or cardigan at work. Too many ruffles or large prints can look fussy. A dressier alternative to a knit top.

6. Little Black Dress: Only if you look good in black. Sheesh! How many times does the LBD appear on lists with no mention of how ghastly many women look in black? How about a little brown dress, a little teal dress, a navy dress. . . If you like wearing dresses, invest in a solid colored one that is flattering to your skin tone. It can be worn almost anywhere!

7. Dark Jeans: Wear these with a nice blouse and feel fairly dressed up. Dark jeans are more figure flattering than faded ones.

8. Statement Necklace: This means a bold piece of jewelry. If you don't like big pieces around your neck, skip this one. Opt for eye-catching earrings, a ring, or a bracelet instead. Remember that one statement piece of jewelry worn at a time looks best.

9. Classic Pumps: Wear these if you can walk comfortably in them. Of course, some foot experts will tell you never to wear heels, but they do dress up an outfit and are a must with a pencil skirt or fitted dress. I wear pumps only when I know I will not be standing for a long period of time. Darn that bunion!

10. 24-Hour Handbag: Not really sure what this means. The one in the photo looks big to me. Is this something I would bring on a plane? On a long car trip? When I leave my house in the morning and won't return until late at night? I am confused.

From Nick Sullivan

Nick Sullivan is the fashion director at Esquire magazine. The following is included in his ten essential truths of men's style:

"Most people, most of the time, judge you by what you're wearing, and if you care what people think, you should care about what you wear. Life doesn't get much simpler than that."

Four Fit Factors

I am a bit behind in my magazine reading but was happy to come across a section on bras in June's In Style. The following fit guidelines should seem obvious, but most women don't pay enough attention to them and end up with bras that are uncomfortable and do nothing for their figures.

1. The Band: "It should sit snugly around the rib cage. As your bra stretches out, move the clasp inward."

2. The Cups: "Signs of an ill-fitting cup include puckering, gapping, wire that digs, and--of course--the dreaded double boob."

3. The Straps: You should be able to put two fingers comfortably under your straps. The band, not the straps, should be holding up your bra.

4. The Style: Branch out and try some new styles when you go bra shopping. Your old standby may be great, but there could be others out there that are just as great if not better.

Check out this nifty video on Nordstrom's website which shows how to find a good-fitting bra.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

What a splendid quote from Esquire's fashion director, Nick Sullivan: "If you like something, respect it. Hang your pants."

My youngest daughter tends to do what I like to call "stop and drop." This means she simply leaves her clothing on the floor, wherever she has taken it off. A cursory glance around her room gives me a pretty good idea of what she has worn in the past few days. She is not bothered by the mess or clutter at all. Since I am, I ask that she leaves her door closed.

However, Sullivan's statement is a motto I value. I plan to pass his words of wisdom on to my daughter. I have said as much to her before, differently, and hope that someone else's words will have a greater impact.

Do you like your clothes? Think about this. They cover you, make you feel terrific, cost money you have worked hard for, and make a difference in how you are treated. Your clothing deserves your respect, so treat it well!

Makeup Advice

I like the idea of Makeupalley.com, a site featured in a New York Times article on July 28. This website "has a library of well-cataloged, super-specific criticism that allows women to do their prepurchase research among peers they trust, despite or perhaps because of their pseudonymity."

Perusing this site seems like a good way to learn about different makeup products from people who have used them and have nothing to gain or lose by describing their experience. On the other hand, whenever I read about the newest or greatest new product in a magazine, I am skeptical. I know that the beauty editors get sent boxes of free products to try out every week. They are paid to review and judge the products they try, even if they only use the product one time and do not necessarily like it.

I recently worked with a client who was cleaning out her closet. We kept unearthing makeup samples and it seemed there was a lipstick tucked into the pocked of every purse (and there were many) that she had. I suggested she toss out any makeup product that she did not currently use or like and that she begin making a shopping list for makeup. Using the recommendations on Makeupalley.com could be an incredibly helpful resource.

Airline Upgrade

When people first started to board flights in order to travel, they dressed up. It was a big deal! The occasion required serious, classic clothing, including suits for men and well-tailored dresses or skirts for women.

Today most people complain about their upcoming flights even when they are heading for a fantastic place. "Ugh. I have to go through security where I have to take off my shoes, and the airplane seats are uncomfortable, the food is terrible. . ."

Of course I would be happy if people would dress up a bit more on airplanes. Sharing a flight with people in sloppy sweats and Uggs does not make me feel like I am on an exciting adventure. So I was tickled to read an article about those who are chosen on the spot for upgrades into first class airline seats. The reason? They were well dressed!

Go here to read the entire article.

From a Surprising Source

Ann Patchett is one of my most cherished authors. Her exquisitely written novels transport me to different places and introduce me to complex, fascinating characters. While reading her most recent book, "State of Wonder," I was not expecting to find a passage for my blog.

But here it is, a description about a character's high heeled sandals she was ill-advised to wear in hot, muggy Brazil:

"[Doctor Swenson] motioned for Easter to hand her one of the shoes and she looked at it as if it were a rare archeological find. 'It's difficult for me to understand why a woman would choose to do that to herself.' She returned the silver sandal to its mate.

'It is a mystery to me as well,' Marina said. She would not try to defend the shoes. They were indefensible. She would walk barefoot for the rest of her life before she'd put them on again."

Indefensible shoes. I love that description!

How to Wear It Well

In Sunday's Los Angeles Times' Image section, an article on the new movie "Crazy, Stupid, Love" appeared. The article gave a brief summary of the film, and then focused on the makeover given to Steve Carell's character. This sounds like a refreshing twist on the tired theme of women getting an entirely new look.

When I work with Wardrobe Wisdom female clients, they often sigh, "Oh, I wish you would help my husband with his clothing." Of course I tell them I would be delighted to be of help. However, the women give a litany of reasons (excuses) their husbands have for not getting rid of old, outdated clothing, and of not wanting to update their style. How frustrating!

Dayna Pink, who was the movie's costume designer, offers some basic guidelines that any man wanting to look sharp could easily follow. A lot of his advice could apply to women as well.

1. Fit is Foremost: "If you go shopping, take the extra time to make sure you get something that fits you. That means you may have to get a tailor."

2. Lead with the Shoulder: The shoulder is everything and cannot be tailored, so make sure it fits correctly. The rest of the shirt or jacket can be tailored.

3. Simplicity is Key: Dress in clothing that you feel good in--not just clothing that is trendy.

4. Choose the Right Shoes: Purchase classics for work, such as loafers or brogues, and leave the white gym shoes behind when you go casual with khakis. Converse and Puma make cool, simple sneakers that would "be perfect with a pair of jeans or khakis."

5. Accessories After the Fact: Pay attention to your belt, briefcase or work bag, and any jewelry you wear. "Knowing when to forgo the accessories is equally important." In short, keep it simple.

I am pretty excited to see "Crazy, Stupid, Love" and look forward to seeing Steve Carell's character's makeover. To me, Carell is an ideal combination of intelligence and wit. Add a handsome style and he is just about perfect!

Go Gauchos! SB shopping #4

Every time a college buddy or visiter is in town, we end up roaming around UCSB. My husband works there and relishes his role as campus tour guide (that is his hobby, not his job!).

I took my girls to UCSB's bookstore the other day, looking for new school lunch boxes. We were distracted by many enticing things en route to the bag section. When I was a student many moons ago, there were about 3 sweatshirt and T-shirt designs available which featured UCSB letters. Now there is a mind-boggling number of logo wear, from baby shoes to workout bras. Truly, there is something for every member of the family who wants to wear something Gaucho.

We were close to the backpack section when my daughter detoured into the boutique area. Here are darling bags and accessories by Vera Bradley, stationery, scarves, jewelry, and all sorts of gift items. I picked up a pretty little makeup bag for friend's upcoming birthday present.

Finally we reached the desired lunchbox area. What a selection! I found a roomy one for myself in a cute design, and my daughter found a simple blue one that folded down like a paper bag. Once we made our selections, we continued to shop.

If you need an iPad case, a case for your cell phone, a good-looking tote bag, a leather bag, a purse. . . In short, if you need any sort of vessel to carry your stuff in, you should check out UCSB's bookstore.

What Is a Southern California Woman to Do?

Even I use a personal shopper sometimes. For example, I am forever on a quest for something warm yet summery-ish to wear from May through September. Jenelle at Nordstrom is still looking for that perfect piece.

Many women I talk to share the chill I feel in the evenings in Santa Barbara and feel like they have to change clothing several times a day to be comfortable. The mornings can be foggy and cool; the afternoons are downright gorgeous and sunny; and when the sun starts to go down, it is cold (no, not cold, cold, but relatively cool again.

Below are some things I do when the weather is not in my ideal zone (which my husband mockingly describes as between 72 and 76 degrees). He thinks I am a bit wimpy.

1. Carry a shawl: I have a lightweight but warm (cashmere or wool) scarf in my car or in my bag to wrap around me when it cools down. Even putting it around my neck can make me feel cozy.

2. Change shoes mid-day: I may start off in ballet flats or cute sneakers, and then change to sandals.

3. Roll up pants: When I leave my house in the morning, my white jeans are full-length. But when I start to warm up, I roll them up for a great summer look.

4. Layer, layer, layer: You may hear this all the time, but it is good advice. I make sure that every layer I have on looks okay by itself. For example, if I wear a tank under my sweater, I make sure to have on a strapless bra so the tank looks good when the day gets warmer.

I realize that those reading this blog who live outside of Southern California are not crying any tears for me or my neighbors. They regularly have to contend with blazingly hot days and nights and humidity that makes me weep. I admit we are quite spoiled with our weather here, but that doesn't mean we can't complain!

The Three B's

My dad cracks me up. He could not be less interested in fashion, yet he comes up with some sartorial tidbits for me every now and then. He also comments on styles he sees on the street with wonder and curiosity. A funny man.

Recently he cut out a Dear Abby letter from "Reformed Frump in Texas" and gave it to me. I will quote the entire letter here as I found it inspiring and wise.

"Dear Abby: I empathize with 'Loose and Baggy.' When my mom and I would go shopping, it always ended in a big fight with me in tears, I was teased mercilessly by the other children for dressing alike a '40-year-old' and never had the cool things the other kids were wearing even though my clothes cost just as much.

I vowed never to do that with my daughter, and by the time she was 12 she was shopping for her own clothes. Our only rule was that she had to follow the three B's--no butt, no boobs and no belly. At 16 she has an amazing sense of fashion and is often emulated. 'Loose and Baggy' should be given some boundaries and then be allowed to buy what she wants."

My, how wonderful it would be if everyone would follow the three B's. Maybe that could be my new mission in life--to educate people about the B's and enforce their compliance. Such a thing would delight me and save me from sights like yesterday's. My 12-year-old daughter nudged me to look at a girl walking in front of us. She had on a very, very tiny string bikini bottom, a loose top, and sandals. We were far from the beach so what on earth was she thinking? I wanted to cover her up!