Image Credit: AnnTaylor.com
Must-have clothing lists are something I come across often, but I don't always agree with their contents. However, the following list from Apartment Therapy seems quite reasonable. My comments are in italics.
1. A pencil skirt. Pencil skirts are like the subway tile of clothes: they never really go out of style. They're elegant, feminine, a little bit badass. Wear one to an interview (with a sensible top). Wear one to a wedding (with a flirty top). Find one you like, get it tailored to fit you just right, and you'll find yourself reaching for it again and again. A good fit is critical: The skirt should skim gracefully over your figure and hit at or just above your knee.2. Black pumps. Everyone should own at least one pair of really beautiful black pumps. Buy a classic shape and you'll keep them forever. Calvin Klein, Cole Haan, 9 West, and Michael Kors tend to have good black pumps year after year. 3. Jeans that make your butt look awesome. Look for a dark rinse, so you can dress them up or down. If you find a pair that fits and you can afford it, purchase two pairs. 4. A big slouchy-luxe bag you can carry every day. Your purse is pretty much the only thing in your wardrobe that you 'wear' every single day, so it's worth splurging on a little. I look for a bag that's high-quality but doesn't scream 'fancy' (for versatility) and one that has a little slouch to it (so I can stuff a few extra things in my purse without it looking like it's going to explode). Hmm. I find a big bag looks out of proportion on petite women and they can be really heavy. However, I'm all for splurging on a high-quality bag in a color and style you love since it will be with you every day. 5. Sunglasses. Sunglasses are the only accessory you wear on your face, and they are kind of important. They're one of the first things other people will see, and a nice pair of sunglasses will instantly elevate any outfit. Look for a pair that's not too trendy and that complements your face shape. And don't leave them on the seat of your car and then sit on them, like I do. Eh. Some people cannot live without sunglasses (me!), and others rarely wear them. So this item doesn't seem like a must-have for all. 6. A white button-up shirt. The ultimate wardrobe staple. Goes with basically everything. Another thing that's worth getting tailored, because you will keep it forever. What if you don't look wonderful in white? Then get off-white? Not a button-up shirt kind of woman? Then how about a white or cream silky blouse with or without buttons? Joie makes gorgeous (and pricey) ones, and Ive seen reasonably priced blouses at H & M and Forever 21.7. A white tank top. White tank top? I hear you saying, skeptically. Trust me: if you can find the right white tank top, you will wear it all the time. The trick is to get one in an upscale fabric, like silk, so the shape says casual but the execution looks like a million bucks. You can wear said tank top to get beers with your friends at the ice house (it's a tank top!) or to that fancy new restaurant everyone's been wanting to try (it's made of silk!). Also looks great under a blazer. I love a great white tank top and have found them at Old Navy and Michael Stars. Ones by Crown Jewel are quite perfect (and are sold at Indian Summers in Summerland).8. The right black pants. Perfect for any occasion where you don't want to wear a skirt, but jeans just won't quite do. Or navy, or dark brown. Look for non-pleated ones that have no pockets or pockets with slits that lay flat in front. A wide leg is flattering on most but make sure it is not too wide if you are petite. 9. A little black dress. But of course. Or navy or cream or even red. 10. A statement-y necklace that goes with everything. I know a necklace might seem like a not-so-basic thing, but hear me out: jewelry makes any ensemble look more finished. It says: "I do not just get dressed. I wear Outfits." If you can find a necklace that you love to wear, and that goes with everything, that one piece can give your whole wardrobe about 15% more oomph. Worth it. Yes!What are the wardrobe staples you can't live without?
This month's column in Carpinteria's Coastal View News details how to attractively layer your clothing to stay warm, but not too warm, on cold days. Go here and then to page 21 to read about layering.
Last weekend my husband and I attended a holiday ugly sweater party. I guess these are quite popular now, but it was our first one. I borrowed a bright red cardigan with cheerful Christmas trees, snowmen, and reindeer appliqued to the hem. The sweater was festive, and I felt ridiculous which I guess is the whole idea.
As guests arrived, I noticed their sweaters and vests, adorned with all kinds of holiday motifs, sparkly sequins, and fancy embroidery. But my very favorite outfit was one I spotted from way across the room. At first I thought she had a bright green felt tree skirt around her neck but quickly dismissed this crazy thought. When she came closer, however, I realized that she was wearing a tree skirt and I so wished I had thought of doing the same brilliant thing. She looked preposterous and hilarious and was the hit of the party!
If you have professional work clothing that you no longer wear, now is an excellent time to donate it to a terrific program: Job Smart.
Read about this program below, and then read further about dropping your clothing off at UCSB in the coming week.
UCSB's Career Services department is collecting clothing donations for the Job Smart program at Unity Shoppe, Inc.
December 15 -18, bring gently worn work duds you can spare to the Career Services front desk.
We will bring them to the Unity Shoppe after the new year. Call Career Services at 805-893-4412 for more information.
Examples of items needed:
Business suits
Slacks
Button Up Shirts
Blouses
Sweaters
Shoes
Accessories (bags, briefcases, scarves, belts, etc.)
I recently wore my $18.00 Payless sparkly pumps which I purchased last year for a wedding. Let me say again how much I adore these shoes for their comfort and sheer killer look. When my husband and I were walking by a local boutique the other night, we saw a similar pair in the window. They were priced around $500. Sure, maybe they were better made and had real crystals covering their surface instead of glittery fabric, but my shoes are fabulous. And I felt quite smug about my frugal shopping.
Image credit: louiscopeland.com
I volunteered at the ticket booth over the weekend for my older daughter's ballet performance. The booth provided an ideal vantage point for some great people-watching. I saw some pretty dresses, stylish suits, and sparkly, festive jewelry on many attendees, in addition to the usual casual SB style of jeans and t-shirts.
One man's ensemble stood out: He wore a pair of black slacks, a dark blue dress shirt, dark tan jacket, topped off with a lovely cranberry red scarf around his neck. I appreciated the thought that went into wearing the scarf and was reminded at how one accessory can make an outfit dazzling.
The offending shoe
The other day my barefooted daughter had wear the emergency/painting/gardening shoes that I keep in my car trunk when we stopped at the grocery store. Of course she was mortified by the outdated style of my sneakers and tried to get me to trade shoes with her. We ended up in fits of laughter when she abandoned her embarrassment and paraded around the store.
When I relayed this story to a friend, she asked why I had ugly, old shoes in my car. I realized I keep a few pairs of such "emergency" shoes around in case of an emergency (fire, earthquake) in which I have to grab shoes and run. . . somewhere. This excess footwear made me think of the Wardrobe Wisdom clients I have who cling to ancient, ratty clothing for "walking the dog," "gardening," or "painting." I've said it before but it bears repeating: You only need one of these ensembles. So use the remaining ones for rags, toss the icky shoes, and open up some space in your closet (or car trunk).
Photo credit: clubsports.com
I realize I am rather fixated on this pastry chef's book, The Sweet Life in Paris, lately, but he has so many bon mots about clothing and the French that I want to share them. Today's quote reminded me of a very funny event during my family's visit with our cousins in northern France a few years ago. Nathalie and I left our children with our husbands at a huge public pool complex while we did some shopping. When we returned, my husband Don was standing to the side of the lifeguard who appeared to be having a very lively argument with Nathalie's husband, Rudy. We later learned Don was forbidden to enter the pool in his "American style bathing suit." Fortunately, a vending machine in the changing room, sold Speedos (I kid you not) for a fair price.
From the Sweet Life in Paris by David Lebovitz:
"This is also a country where it's interdit [forbidden] to wear anything but a skimpy, religion-baring Speedo in pubic pools ' pour l'hygiene, monsieur!' If someone could explain why strapping on a slingshot-style swimsuit is so much more hygienic than a square-cut swimsuit with two extra centimeters of fabric--and why I, who have less hair on my head than many of the men have on their backs, have to wear a bathing cap--I'm all ears."
Image Credit: Bodenusa.com
Strangely, whimsical socks seem to be all the rage right now, for both men and women. This strikes me as strange because crazy, colorful socks were such fashion outcasts during the past decade or so. But now that socks are de rigueur with everything from pumps to Birkenstocks (for some people), they've made a comeback.
I like to see a cool, striped sock peeking out between a bootie and a rolled up jean. I also like to see a dark or light (depending on the rest of the outfit) tall sock coming over the top of a riding boot. One of my husband's colleagues is a very stylish dresser and has always shown his flair for fashion via his printed socks. Think of them as a wink on your feet.
Image credit: wssdv.org
I have a feeling pastry chef David Lebovitz would be surprised and
amused to learn that I quote him in my Wardrobe Wisdom blog since he
makes no claims to be a fashion writer. However, he is living in
Paris and has a keen, observant eye for how people dress there and why.
His partner used the phrase, " Les francais ne jettent rien" (The French throw away nothing), and David says he fits in well since he also cannot "bear to throw away things either." I love this description he gives to illustrate his point:
"Those perfectly good designer pants that were such a bargain at 60 percent off, even though they felt just a bit snug at the time. In the years since I bought them, sometimes when I'm getting ready to go out, I'll try them on. Yet neither I, nor the waistband, seem to want to change. I reason to myself that parachute pants with more pleats than a Broadway theater curtain will eventually come back in style, even though space is lacking in my French closet."
Now is a good time to look at clothing you have that you try on and immediately take right off. No matter what, you will never feel fabulous in such garments, and they are just taking up physical and mental space. So go do some editing!
Photo credit: Associated Press
I appreciate how New York Times' journalist Vanessa Friedman covered the recent story of scientist Matt Taylor and his questionable sense of style. The themes she highlighted in this column are timeless and important.
In short, British physicist Dr. Taylor "appeared on 'BBC Breakfast' and a European Space Agency live stream to update everyone on the mission [of landing on a comet] while wearing a bowling shirt emblazoned with a print of numerous bodacious women in various cleavage-baring poses wearing skintight outfits and toting guns — and bearing an astonishing resemblance to the girls of the just-released Pirelli calendar." Unfortunately, his shirt became the focus of his televised appearances, overshadowing the exciting news he had to impart.
Friedman states: "I think the real moral of this particular story exists beyond personal politics and is fairly straightforward and universal: What you wear in public matters. Whomever you are, and whatever you do." She continues to make several good and relevant points about the way our clothing sends a message to the world, ending her article with these wise words:
"Clothing is part of any message delivered personally. This is not a new idea — public figures have considered the semiology of their appearance since Cleopatra — but it is ever more important in the social media age. It is part of communication, and communication is a skill that involves practice and planning. It is fully accepted that people should consider their remarks. Why should they not also consider the shape in which they are, literally, framed?"
Photo credit: thestyleceleb.com
This interview on American Public Media's Marketplace program caught my ear this week. Kai Ryssdal spoke with fashion designer Tory Burch about her business and her philosophy behind the Tory Burch brand. I liked hearing about her foundation and how she seems focused on growing her business sensibly.
Photo credit: AGjeans.com
For years and years I avoided black jeans. I just couldn't stand how quickly they seemed to fade to a dull, dirty-looking color. Then again, black jeans are such a nice departure from blue denim and they are so versatile. So I finally got myself a pair.
Today's black jeans are not as prone to fading since most of them contain lycra or another synthetic, stretchy material besides cotton which will hold the dye better. I always wash them in cold water, inside out, and hang them to dry. Now I wear them all the time and wonder how I went without them for so long!
Image credit: buzzkenya.com
My daughter is about to turn 16 and cannot wait to work. When she mentioned asking for applications at a couple of stores downtown today, I realized that I had some advice for her that can benefit others as well. Now is a good time to look for part or full-time work in Santa Barbara's retail world as I have seen a lot of signs in store windows, advertising job openings.
More than once I have been in a local store and overheard young men and women requesting a job application. 99% of the time they have been wearing completely inappropriate clothing for such an occasion (shorts and a tank top, flip flops, bathing suit and skimpy cover up, etc.). Even if you are not planning to be interviewed that day for a position, dress well for your job search. Chances are you will be remembered in a positive way if you were the one asking for a job application wearing a nice dress or a skirt and pressed blouse, or a nicely tailored pair of pants and simple sweater or blouse. If possible, ask for a couple of applications and let the person know you would like to take your time with them and will bring them back after working on them at home. Again, this shows that you are serious and memorable.
If you dress well at each stage of the job seeking process, and are a motivated, hard-working and valuable employee during your holiday stint, you stand a good chance of being hired to work after the holidays and beyond.
Go to page 21 in Coastal View News out of Carpinteria to read this month's Wardrobe Wisdom column. I share my ideas on how to spruce up and plan your outfits for the holidays. My daughter's drawings which accompany the article are especially charming this month.
Photo credit: Kickstarter.com
When we were teens, our moms used to shamelessly try on pants and skirts under what they were already wearing, right in the middle of department stores. These brazen acts made us blush and swear we would never do something so outrageous and embarrassing. Now, more than once over the decades-long years of our friendship, Stacy and I have changed clothes in public. Oh, we tell ourselves and each other that these quick changes are not at all like the ones our moms used to do. We are much more subtle and discreet. It's never really okay though, right?
Enter the "Undress." Some clever, thoughtful designers have come up with a completely presentable halter dress that will allow a woman to get out of one outfit and into another without exposing herself! Go here to see the video and learn all about this rather miraculous dress. (I am not asking you to give to the company's Kickstarter campaign; this link is simply the most informative one about the Undress.)
Now that Halloween has passed, I can release a huge sigh of relief. I've told you before about my aversion to costumes. This year I decided to be Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany's. I had most of the costume already in my wardrobe so it was a no-brainer. Then I realized that very few (if any) of the students at the junior high school where I work would recognize who I was. So instead of Audrey, I dressed up as a cat. This worked just fine for me. I wore a black turtleneck, skirt, and ballet flats. My daughter's cute sequined kitty ears headband and tail from when she was a cat for Halloween worked splendidly. Unlike me, my boss goes all out for Halloween and wore a magnificent Maleficent costume. While my getup could not hold a candle next to hers, I felt comfortable. And I re-learned something: wear an outfit that speaks to you and you will feel good (I love cats so wearing a cat costume made me happy). It's not much different from the advice I give for dressing everyday.
Below are some useful tips from the Huffington Post about caring for your sweaters. I agree with their advice about not dry cleaning your sweaters.
Each winter, there always seems to be one sweater that's sacrificed to the fashion gods. It's been shrunk to doll-size proportions because you swore you could wash it yourself, or it ends up warped and faded in the back of your closet.
It can be downright maddening -- especially when you saved up forever for that amazing Marc Jacobs sweater you had to have, like, yesterday. (Can you tell I'm just a little bitter?)
Here at KnowMore, we're working hard to minimize sweater-catastrophes, so we chatted with Mary Marlowe Leverette of About.com's Guide to Laundry for tips on keeping your garments in fighting shape.
IT'S A CASHMIRACLE:
Contrary to popular belief, cashmere sweaters don't always need to be dry-cleaned. Save some dough by learning when to drop them off and when to drop them in the washing machine.
If cashmere is used to make a structured sweater or coat, the garment should be dry-cleaned.
For soft, unstructured, cashmere sweaters, hand wash in cool water using a mild detergent. Cashmere is, after all, the hair of a goat and is used to being wet!
When hand washing, rinse well and never wring.
Dry your sweater flat and reshape during drying.
Got wrinkles? Iron the garment inside out and while its still damp.
Be sure to place a press cloth between the iron and the cashmere. What's a press cloth, you ask? Basically, it serves as a protective barrier between the iron and the sweater. You can buy one, but clean, household items work just as well. Think cotton towels or dish cloths.
Almost all fabrics can be washed gently, but sometimes it's the inner linings and construction that can't get wet. So if the care label says "dry clean only," believe it!
CLEAN MACHINE:
We know, we know. While it would be amazing to have a sweater stash that's purely cashmere, most of us don't have the luxury. When debating how to wash the other fabrics in your wardrobe, ask yourself these questions:
Are there spots or stains that you don't know how to treat?
Is the garment made from acetate or rayon? Both can shrink or become misshapen in water.
Is there a special finish on the garment? Stiff fabrics have a stabilizing finish to help them hold their shape that water can ruin.
Is the garment difficult to iron? Structured garments, such as suits, can be difficult to iron and often lose their shape when washed.
Is the garment leather or suede?
Is the garment made of a fiber that you're not familiar with and have never successfully washed at home?
Is the garment special to you?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, take your prized fashion possession to a professional dry cleaner.
STAIN SOLUTIONS:
Always remember to treat a stain as quickly as possible after it happens.
Begin by removing any solid matter (like that leftover onion dip -- yuck!) using the dull edge of a kitchen knife.
Never rub the stain because you will push it deeper into the fabric.
Blot the area with clear water and a clean white cloth.
PAGING DR. PILL:
Sometimes it seems like you practically need to be a surgeon to remove pills without leaving a gaping hole in your sweater. Here's how to do it right (sans scalpel, I might add):
Weigh the value of the garment before you attempt to slice. Is it really worth it? Will anyone really notice the pills, or are they simply bothering you?
If they're an eye sore, pull the fabric taught on a curved surface and carefully cut or shave the pill from the fabric.
For a more hi-tech solution, try D-Fuzz-It. It costs about $3.00 and won't harm the fabric.
STORAGE SECRETS:
Always fold sweaters and knits. Placing them on any type of hanger will eventually allow their weight to warp and stretch them.
Photo Credit: TVguide
Sometimes I am stumped, thinking about how to write about fashion and style in a refreshing way. And sometimes I just want to convey some basic ideas and decide to quote or simply re-post what others have expressed perfectly. The latter is the case in today's Wardrobe Wisdom post, taken straight from Clinton Kelly's blog. He lets you know how and why clothes are important and what to look for when you are trying on clothing here. Clinton gets it just right!
Photo Credit: Gordon Wallace L.A. Times Archive/UCLA
I was amused and surprised by an article I read in Thursday's Los Angeles Times: "In 1938, Woman Was Jailed Over Slacks." Since slacks and jeans are widely worn by most women nowadays, it's hard to imagine a time when a judge would say to a witness, "The court hereby orders and directs you to return tomorrow in accepted dress." He claimed her slacks outfit distracted from the "legal business at hand." When Helen Hulick showed up in slacks the next day, she was sent to jail with a five day sentence! In her defense, she said she had worn slacks "since I was 15" and hoped that her going to jail would "help to free women forever of anti-slackism."
Hulick seems like a smart and brave woman to me--maybe not Rosa Parks brave--but she showed an impressive amount of courage to stand up to the judge.
I apologize for giving you an incorrect link to Coastal View News. Use this one and go to page 25.
Go here to read my column on page 25 in this month's Carpinteria Coastal View News. It's kind of a greatest hits of my Wardrobe Wisdom tips. The column also features, as usual, drawing by my younger daughter.
Reading pastry chef David Lebovitz' blog brings me great pleasure. He lives in Paris and writes with humor and affection about this dazzling, puzzling, beautiful, food-loving city. In his book, The Sweet Life in Paris, he describes how he came to live in France and what life was like for him as a newcomer. I love what he says about the time he knew he had become a Parisian:
"I was spending a lazy Sunday in my apartment lounging around in faded sweatpants and a loose, tattered sweatshirt, my ideal outfit for doing nothing in particular. By late afternoon, I'd finally mustered the energy to take the elevator downstairs to the inner courtyard of my apartment building to empty the garbage.
With the elevator door exactly three steps from my front door and the garbage room just five steps from the elevator landing at the bottom, the trip involves basically four movements. . .
The whole process should take maybe forty-five seconds.
So I extracted myself from the sofa, shaved, changed into a pair of real pants, tucked in a clean wrinkle-free shirt, and slipped on a pair of shoes and socks before heading toward the door with my little plastic sac for the poubelle.
God forbid I should run into someone from my building while wearing my Sunday worst."
To me, making an effort to dress presentably means you respect yourself and those around you.
Last week I gave a talk to a group of women at Renaissance Fine Consignment Store in Santa Barbara. I let them in on my consignment store shopping secrets, and along with the shop's expert staff and super owner, Joann Younger, offered advice and guidance. I purchased a chic coat at a fraction of its original price. We all had a great evening.
Here's the scoop on an upcoming sale at the store, located at 1118 State Street in Santa Barbara, near the art museum.
On Saturday I had fun at my favorite local bookstore, Chaucer's in Santa Barbara. Four books on my two favorite topics made their way home with me: Stacy London's The Truth about Style, How to Tie a Scarf 33 Styles published by Potter Style, The Sweet Life in Paris by David Lebovitz, and SB cooking expert Pascale Beale's Spring cookbook.
I'd been wanting to purchase London's 2012 book since it was published. I loved watching her "What Not to Wear" show with Clinton Kelly, mostly agreeing with her style advice and her insistence that paying attention to one's appearance can affect one's life in deep ways. In her new book, London states her intentions: "My book doesn't only deal with how to dress well, and why you should, but it examines why you don't We all put obstacles in our own path toward personal style. If we understood why we constructed these practical and emotional obstacles, we might move beyond them to healthier, happier perceptions of ourselves and, ideally, a better sense of self-esteem." Bravo, Stacy!
I'll let you know how I'm finding the book as I read, and I am quite certain I will have some insightful Stacy quotes to share.
Image Credit: huffingtonpost.com
Some people become very excited about Halloween and wearing costumes. Over the past decade, these are not just little people; legions of adults eagerly anticipate the end of October, counting down the days in which they will get to wear a costume. I, on the other hand, dread wearing costumes. I do not enjoy spending money on something I will wear once; I do not like bringing attention to myself; and I do not feel comfortable wearing clothing that is not my style. Still, since I work at a junior high school, I am expected to not be a party pooper but to wear something festive. Last year I made a weak attempt in a cowgirl getup. This year I was inspired by the lazy person's costume ideas from the Huffington Post. Go here to see them again. I've decided to dress as Audrey Hepburn and if I cannot scare up a pair of long black gloves from a friend, that will be my only investment for October 31. Boo!
Image Credit:thredUP.com
Last week I ran into a client who asked me for a brilliant Wardrobe Wisdom hint, "just one!" She took me a bit off guard and I had to think a minute about what little gem I could pass her way. While I was thinking, she passed along one to me: Thredup.com.
Kristen did a spin in the cute dress she had on, telling me it was purchased from this site, along with several other great things which she wears all the time.
Perhaps you have been to this site which is like an online consignment store/thrift shop. I went home and immediately did some investigating and think it's one of those sites I'll need to visit once a week to find anything I love. There are A LOT of items to look at.
Photos: oscars.org
I am looking forward to an exhibit opening this week, called "Hollywood Costume." According to costume designer Deborah Scott in the Los Angeles Times, "The exhibit is not just about pretty clothes. It's about how we as designers make a film character become a real person." The exhibit can be seen through March 2 at the Wilshire May Co. Building in Los Angeles. Go here to learn all about this unusual and wonderful-sounding exhibit.
I am teaming up with the terrific stores Purrmission Lingerie and Renaissance Fine Consignment in order to raise funds for San Marcos High School's students and programs. Please go here, click on silent auction, and then click on the purchase now items to learn about the two great evenings of shopping and Wardrobe Wisdom that we have planned. I hope to see you at one or both of these events!
Photo from Clinton Kelly's website: http://clintonkelly.com
Of course he has a blog. And it is quite wonderful which is no surprise. Go here to check it out. I love that man.
Image Credit: blogs.cornell.edu
I'm a big believer in lists, whether they for tasks at home or at work, or for things that I need to pick up at Trader Joe's. I also have a list of voids in my closet that I would like to fill. These are not clothing, shoes or accessories which I need immediately; rather, they are a few timeless items I want to choose carefully with the intention of wearing them for many years. This list is not very short so most of it remains in my head. In this way, I can be on the lookout for the items any time I shop.
My list served me well when I was checking out a store I had not ventured into for many years. Remember my black blazer ordeal? Well, I had not really giving up on finding this particular garment, and was super happy to find a rather perfect one a couple of weeks ago. If I had not kept that item on my ongoing list, I would not have looked for it that day. Do you have such a list? If not, look in your closet, think of some basic items that would help you create complete outfits, and write them down. Then have this list with you when you shop.
Go to page 26 in Carpinteria's Coastal View News to read my column. I cover the topic of pants for men and hope the guys heed my advice.
Photo Credit: Sears.com
When I was growing up, I remember thinking my mom got a huge (out of proportion) kick out of buying me underwear every year. Now that I am a mother of two girls, I understand the small thrill and relief she felt upon annually purchasing new underwear for her daughter. How is your underwear collection these days? Look through your drawers (pun intended) with a critical eye, tossing out any holey, uncomfortable, ugly, or tired-looking panties and make a point of buying new ones this month. Head to Target, Sears, Nordstrom, Macy's, Purrmission. . . Heck, I don't care where you buy them; Just get out there and experience the little thrill of having brand new underwear. You're welcome.
Image Credit: Harper's Bazaar
Image Credit: kittiesandcouture.com
I have blogged about the belt cheat sheet that I keep near my closet. Now I have a new cheat sheet. . . for booties.
These shoes can be perplexing. What do you wear them with? Do you wear socks? Tights? Skirts? Jeans? What color? How should they fit around the ankle? Is it best to get a black or to go with something like gray or burgundy?
Since booties hit the scene a few years ago, I have started to cut out pictures from magazines and print out photos I've seen on Pinterest and fashion blogs which show booties looks that I like. I use these photos to inform me how to wear with my booties. I also use them when I shop in order to dismiss or try out booties I see in stores. Here is a link that I found particularly helpful:
http://www.pinterest.com/aszyperski/ankle-boot-outfits/. Wardrobe Wisdom is a big fan of cheat sheets!
I was so pleased to catch this National Public Radio story about a new book called Women in Clothes. I learned from this story that "The book collects essays, conversations, pictures and testimonials from
more than 600 women talking about how clothes shape or reflect them as
human beings." It was refreshing to hear women talk openly of their love and aversion to fashion and looking good. Let me know if you read this book. I am eager to devour its pages!
Image Credits: Dress & Top, Bodenusa.com.
Ted Baker pump @Nordstrom.com
Much to my dismay, my older daughter is not a fan of florals. I
forget this over and over again, but she does not hesitate to remind me
when we are shopping together. I will gesture to a fetching floral
skirt, asking, "Isn't this pretty?" And she will respond exasperatedly,
"Mom, I don't like those prints." However, I have noticed her wearing
some floral cotton dresses borrowed from a friend lately but have not
said anything.
I'm happy to share this recent post from StyleBakery.com about florals for this winter. To me, florals are for every season!
While listening to a story on NPR recently, I learned of a very thoughtful and thought-provoking blog about fashion history, called "Threaded," from the Smithsonian Museum of all places! Go here to read some fascinating posts.
I listened to this story on NPR over the weekend, "If These Shorts Could Talk. . . New Book Tells 'Worn Stories.'" In the book, author "Emily Spivack compiles reflections from Rosanne Cash, Piper Kerman,
Marcus Samuelsson and others about the meaningful articles of clothing
stored in their closets."
When I work with clients, I get to hear a lot of stories about their clothing and accessories. Some stories are funny, many of them are sad, and all of them give me insight into their history and outlook on life. What do your favorite, "worn" clothes say about you?
Pictured above are, inexplicably, one my favorite pairs of shorts. I have had them for at
least 10 years and wear them happily each summer. They're from Old Navy.
I've seen the word shooties in a number of magazines and catalogs recently. It makes me laugh every time. The ones above are by Botique 9. Go here and here to see more shooties (hahaha).
I read a column in last week's Los Angeles Times in which "a handful of Hollywood's top stylists" gave tips on how to look "as pulled together as the stars" without their resources and minions. Here are the tips intended to be for a special event, but applicable to everyday life:
1. Know your body shape: once you figure out if you are curvy, straight up and down, top heavy. . ., you know what clothing styles suit you best. When you shop, you save time by choosing garments made for you shape. Learn how to "maximize the sum of [your] parts."
2. Details, details, details: Pay attention to your hair, makeup, nail color, accessories, and undergarments.
3. Professional help: Use experts to help you achieve the hair and makeup look you want. The stylists also recommend using the Internet, since "almost any question you could think of regarding how to dress one's body shape, how to complement one's complexion, how to create a look using specific pieces, etc. can all be found on the Web."
4. Build on a solid foundation: Undergarments make a HUGE difference in how clothing looks on a person, so find ones that elongate and streamline "to create a smooth silhouette."
5. Tailor: Every stylist quoted in this article emphasized the value of hiring a tailor for a custom fit. I emphatically agree.
6. Take photographs and practice: Had I known that my arms would look ENORMOUS when I posed in a certain way, I would not have done so during the photo session we had with friends for my husband's recent birthday. A test run--even if it's just in front of your mirror--is a splendid idea.
7. Don't deflect, accentuate: "Always work with what you have." If you have great legs, show them off; if you like your shoulders, wear clothes that reveal them; if your smile is an asset, wear bright lipstick, etc.
8. Balance and harmony are key: "Too many beautiful things (jewelry, hair accessories, makeup) just compete and then nothing takes center stage. Knowing how to balance and harmonize and edit is really important, If you;re not sure, always ask.
John Legend knows how to wear clothes. He always looks handsome and comfortable.
For several years, I have been stalking a black blazer by Theory. I have tried it on when I am shopping, I have visited it on the web, and I was tempted to steal it off the back of a co-worker when I spotted hers. This jacket seemed perfect to me for its weight, timeless style, flattering fit, and comfort. HOWEVER, this jacket is priced around $400, which is way out of my budget.
So when I was shopping Nordstrom's recent Anniversary Sale with my friend, Stacy, I tried on the jacket again. Its sale price was closer to $350 which was better but still not a bargain. Stacy told me several reasons why I needed to just bite the bullet and make the purchase, mostly quoting my own Wardrobe Wisdom shopping advice. (She also added that the jacket was worth the price if I would stop pining for it once and for all.)
I bought the jacket and went home feeling giddy. When I returned to Nordstrom later that week, I intended to get its sleeves shortened. This is when things went downhill. The tailor informed me that I would lose a button if the sleeves were shortened, leaving me with only 2 buttons which looks weird. She also said that once they were shortened they would be too tight to roll up, thus depriving me the ability to show off the cool, striped lining. I felt deflated. My perfect jacket was flawed. I returned it with a heavy heart.
Sorry, Stacy. The quest continues!
Photo Credits: Jen7 on top, Saksfifthavenue.com; Spanx on bottom, Nordstrom.com
But I am quite eager to try two new jeans lines: by Spanx and 7 for All Mankind.
Over the years I've recommended Spanx for my clients. These undergarments do what they are supposed to do: they smooth out bumpy parts of our bodies and hold in the jiggly parts; they support our breasts and lift our bottoms; and they offer myriad styles. Women tell me they like how they look when they wear Spanx, but they are not very comfortable. Well, that's the trade off. Tim Gunn, one of my fashion world idols, likes to say that if you want to be comfortable, dressed in your pajamas all day, then don't get out of bed!
Obviously, these new jeans are not pajamas. Founder Sara Blakely claims that the main difference between her jeans and others "is a lot of slimming jeans on the market didn't have the wise waist panel and side zipper. . . We spent a significant amount of time on the back pocket--the size, the shape, how high up on the rear it should be."
According to another article I read in Sunday's Los Angeles Times, "Jen7 aims to offer the tailored fit of high-end jeans without trend-driven teen silhouettes. The Jen7 top block has been designed to have a higher rise that eliminates gapping and allows for more room through the hips than the traditional pair of premium jeans." Vice President of Product Peggi Jewell states, "this top block was built for a woman who is fit but has possibly had children and encountered some inevitable changes in her body."
Sign me up! I plan to try on these jeans and report on my experience this fall. Jen7 will be available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdales, Neiman Marcus, and Nordstrom. Spanx jeans are sold at Macy's and Nordstrom.
Image Credit: saphanloy.wordpress.com
Do you have items in your wardrobe that are pretty, feel good on, were purchased due to their special and unique qualities, but which, nevertheless, are a real pain to get on and off? My Wardrobe Wisdom advice concerning such things is to bid them adieu.
An experience the other night led me to this topic today. I have a beautiful black silk blouse in my closet that feels heavenly on and looks terrific with jeans and fitted skirts. However, getting it on requires patience and a good deal of complicated maneuvers. After failing 3 times to put my arms in the proper holes, I gave up, flinging the top onto a shelf in frustration. Since I have another nice black blouse, I have made the decision to say good-bye to the one that confounds me. I think you should do the same to clothes that are just too darn hard to put on. And if you are shopping, do not purchase clothing that makes you feel like a contortionist in the dressing room.
In Croatia, regretting my decision to wear Crocs on the bike ride. I'm happy with my shorts and shirt, though!
Most of the things I packed for my month-long trip were great and a few were true champions. I wore my jeans over and over, and was happy to have my medium weight, neutral colored cardigan with me. As it has done in past trips, my little black dress made me feel feminine and chic, though I think I will update it by making it knee-length. The navy and khaki shorts I packed went with all of my tops and looked good (especially when I ironed them). I liked having a couple of printed scarves to liven up my outfits. I wore them around my neck, over my shoulders, and under my sweater on chilly evenings. The silk tunic I brought was a superstar, drying in a snap and not showing any wrinkles. I think I'd like another silk print dress to bring on my next trip. The purple rolling suitcase I bought for this trip was such a step up from the tired, black duffel bag I'd had for years. This new bag was lightweight and accommodated all of my clothing as well as the souvenirs I bought along the way. I also liked its useful inside mesh pockets.
This week I will let you know how well I packed for my European adventures this summer. Though I am known as an expert packer, and have packed for many clients successfully, I had a few failures this time around.
You may remember my Crocs angst from a previous post. In the end, I purchased a pair of them in the Mary Jane style, thinking I'd wear them on bike rides and on the rocky beaches of Croatia. These shoes did not pull through for me in either area. Of course since they are made of plastic, they became sweaty and uncomfortable on the bike ride. While they felt okay on the beaches, they were too buoyant once I hit the water. My daughter's classic swim shoes (shown above, from Ebay) were the best option (and were not so much less attractive than the Crocs).
My other failure was my choice of tote bags. I wanted one that would go with all of my outfits, that had a zipper closure, and that would accommodate my important travel papers and reading materials. The Kate Spade navy bag I purchased on Ebay was a wee bit too small to hold everything. I really had to move my items around to make them all fit. It was also made of an unyielding fabric that made it tough to cram under my seats on the plane, buses, and ferries. For my next trip, I hope to find a tote made of soft fabric, leather, or faux leather that is a big larger (like the one above, from Brass Plum at Nordstrom).
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