Psssst....

Valentine's Day is right around the corner and I'm really hoping that Spring is not far behind that.  I love to create gift guides to help a special someone find the special gift, which I still may post.  In the meantime, though, I did want to suggest (some would say self-promote) to my local friends perhaps it's time to receive the gift of a wardrobe service.  If you live outside the West Michigan area we can get creative and do some virtual style/shopping boards or even a Skype style call.   If you live in West Michigan I do want to spend just a bit of time letting you know more about 2 of the possibilities/packages for you to add to your wishlist.  

 Spring is so close and it's that time in the current season where you are getting tired of your Winter wardrobe.  Area consignment stores will soon be accepting Spring goods which is a sure sign it's almost time for the season closet change over.  As I mention often, now is the time to at least purge the items you currently own that you know you won't wear next Winter.  If all of this feels overwhelming I would love to work with you in a Closet Restyle package.  The best part of this is making new outfits from clothes you already own.  Here are a couple of pics of the Restyle "in progress":

Creating new options !!  A girl needs options!

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Making outfits from clothes already in a client's closet!  

The Closet Restyle package allows us to spend 3 hours pulling everything out of your closet, purging what will not go back in, and then creating new outfits from what remains.  In addition you will receive a photo lookbook of all the outfits we created along with a shopping list for some things you still need.  This is probably my favorite service that I offer.  

Another idea, which is really a combo of a couple of options, is something I recently did as a surprise for a client's wife. They were going on vacation and he contacted me to put together (and shop for) several outfits for their trip!  This.  Was.  So.  Fun!  I created virtual styling boards, sent each to him for approval, and once approved I purchased the items.  Next, I put the outfits together and wrapped them in "daily outfit packages".  In each box I included some styling tips for different ways to wear each item beyond the vacation.  I think she really loved it all!  How thoughtful was he to do this????  

Wrapped and numbered.  The gift giver has a "cheat sheet" that describes what's in each box.

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The styling card give some tips...

If you're ready to get started on a new season or just a new closet and live in the West Michigan area, I would love to work with you.  Comment below or contact me directly and let's set a custom package for you.  If your Valentine needs a little help with the perfect gift give them my info and we can do that as well.  Here is a quick link to my services page http://bit.ly/2qW5odj  

 

The story of the $12 dollar skirt

A few months ago on a trip to one of my favorite consignment stores I found the cutest skirt.  It didn't have a label in it and looked to be a one-of-a-kind beauty.  I immediately loved the print of the fabric and the cut of the skirt itself.  It is an A-line skirt and the print is a blend of patterns with blues and greens.  As I talk about often, I love it when a gem in my wardrobe can be worn in different ways.  Not only can I wear this skirt in different ways and in different seasons, again I mention, it was $12 bucks! 

Here is how I wore it first:

Skirt in late November

In late November I wore it with a black turtleneck, jean jacket, tights and my all time fav MaryJanes.  Everything I'm wearing isn't available anymore, but here are some suggestions that are close 

Here is how I wore it today:

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Today I wore the skirt with a simple gray long sleeve tshirt, a black cardigan and black boots.  

The t-shirt is still available here:  http://shopstyle.it/l/vY6N and the cardigan here:  http://shopstyle.it/l/vY7v  Both are on sale!  (p.s. these too are affiliate links, just so you know).

I am looking forward to Spring (I mean is anyone not???).  Here is one way I will be wearing the same skirt when Spring finally shows her face:

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This is a simple tie waist white shirt from Chico's (no longer available) and my favorite pink Dansko clogs (also not available).  I did post some items similar for you to check out

 

All three of these looks are easy to duplicate.  Choose a great skirt and wear it with some simple closet basics - a long sleeve tshirt, turtleneck, white blouse and layer (depending on your preference) with a cardigan or jean jacket.  Add your favorite shoes or boots - simple or with a pop of color or flair and there you have it.  A fun, easy to wear skirt is the star of all of these outfits - it just happens to be a bonus because I got it for such a great price and it's wearable in any season.  Check your closet - if you wear skirts - I bet there is one you can pull from your wardrobe, match with the same items as I have, and wear it multiple seasons.  

Have fun putting together a new look and of course, owning your style.

 

** just a note - there are affiliate links in this post.  Not comfortable using them?  No problem just google for the items or shop for yourself at your favorite sites.  

Still dreaming of Spring, this time handbags...

With temps in the 30's I am happy to be looking ahead to Spring and dreaming of a new handbag.  I.  Love.  Handbags.  I have a collection of them and take good care of each of them.  They are stored in the dust bags that arrived with them or in cotton pillowcases for extra measure.  I have certain criteria that, for me,  a new handbag must meet in order for me to purchase.  I am not brand loyal, but rather choose handbags based on my likes and my preferences.  I do not choose the handbag based on the brand, the monogram on it (or not on it) but more about if I like it.  If it's a satchel, it needs to have "feet" on the bottom to protect it should I sit it down.  If it is made with a "leather look", for me, it needs to be leather.  If it's a soft fabric I prefer nylon as it is more durable.  As with my clothing, I love versatility and options in a handbag.  One that converts to be worn in more than one style is a real bonus for me.  I like both the simple, classic styling of a satchel or a kitschy print of some sort.  I enjoy a large or oversized handbag as much as I like a small clutch, if not more.  However, for me, a larger bags just invites me to put more "stuff" in it which isn't always best.  I have been looking around a bit for Spring and here are a few of my fav picks for handbags:

First up is the Jetsetter from Henri Bendel.  Full disclosure - I do own this bag already but I would love the gray nylon one :).  I love this bag because it can be worn as a backpack, carried by the handles, or use the shoulder strap and easily wear it cross body.  There are sooo many options for fabric and color there has got to be one you would love as well!

Next, the Patricia Nash Ticci bag.  It has a boho vibe for me and I love that.  Again, it can be carried by the round handles or by using the long strap can easily be worn over the shoulder or as a cross body.  Last summer it was available in white as well so hopefully that will be an option again. 

Next up is a nylon satchel from Kipling.  As I mentioned before, I love nylon handbags.  I think the fabric lends itself to any season and is so versatile because of that.  If you are going to choose a fabric bag I think you have to have one that is easy to spot clean and this fits the bill.  This bag can be carried as a satchel or comfortably as a shoulder bag as well. 

The Coach Cooper.  Though I am not brand loyal, I do love Coach handbags.  The quality of the leather is superb.  I have Coach bags already in my collection but none with this silhouette and I love it.  I seem to be drawn to large satchel - tote - handbags lately and I just love the look of this one.  For Spring, the pink tone seems perfect to me.  

The Calvin Klein Lola.  How could you not carry this bag and be happy?  The floral print just reminds me of Spring.  Without meaning to sound like a broken record, this bag can be carried as a satchel or shoulder bag for more options.  The color is neutral so this bag would go with everything in your Spring wardrobe!

I hope this short list inspires you to find a new bag for Spring that speaks to you and helps you own your style!  I had so many choices it was difficult to narrow it down.  I may just pick a bag already in my collection, tie a pretty scarf around the handle and pretend it's brand new :).

Dreaming of Dresses

On a rainy January day in Michigan I am dreaming of warmer Spring days and wearing a dress instead of rain gear.  If you know me at all, you know that I love a piece in my closet that can be worn more than one way.  I found 5 dreamy dresses that can do just that.

1)  A beautiful maxi dress from Anthropologie.  What I Love:

  • The color - what a "shot of color" in the middle of a dreary winter
  • The length - this is available in both petite and regular lengths which is awesome for all of us
  • The possibilities - pair this with mules, as shown here.  Pair with boots in the colder months or flat sandals or wedges to wear when it's warmer 

2)  Flowy midi from Target.  What I Love:

  • The color - such a warm, cheery pattern for now and later
  • The length - another bonus - not too short and not a maxi either
  • The possibilities:  wear now with boots and tights.  Wear to a business casual event with pumps or Mary Janes.  Wear when it warms up with wedges.  Another possibility is paired with skinny jeans and flats -- love it!
  • The price - less than $50 bucks!!

 

3)  Printed Drawstring Peasant Dress from Nordstrom.  What I Love:

  • The color - bright but doable for any season
  • The length - it gives you a ton of options for how to style
  • The possibilities:  wear now with tights and boots or booties or Mary Janes.  Wear later with wedges or sandals.  Wear anytime with skinny jeans/jeggings layered underneath.  Add a long vest or gili for layering over for a totally different look. 

4)  Bishop Sleeve Shift Dress from Nordstrom Rack.  What I Love:

  • The color and fabric - the neutral tones and fabric of this dress make it wearable in any season
  • The possibilities:  Again, wear now with tights and boots.  Dress it up now with sheer hose and pumps.  Wear later with mules, sandals, or wedges.  
  • The extra sleeve detail - with all the craze for different sleeves right now, the bishop sleeve on this dress make it right on trend.  With the simple fabric and neutral color, the dress won't go out of style. 
  • The price - less than $50 bucks!

5)  Tencel Shirt Dress from Gap.  What I Love:

  • The color and fabric - who doesn't love a different twist on a denim dress?
  • The possibilities:  Wear now with leggings and boots or tights and boots.  Wear in the warmer months with sandals or wedges.  Wear with skinny jeans and tshirt and the dress worn as a "jacket" anytime.  Change the skinny cord tie to a belt or scarf for a totally different look. 
  • The price - still less than $100 bucks!

If you check your closet and you already have a dress similar to one of these lovelies pull it and wear it !  If not, it may be time to go shopping!  

Mid-Season Restyle

It's that time in the season, you know the middle.  The middle where you're either sick of everything you're wearing or you're wearing the same favorites over and over again, or both.  I think I have written about this in the middle of almost every season but I think it's worth mentioning again.  It's a great time to take a look at your wardrobe and perhaps do some cleaning up, some purging, some organizing perhaps. 

Let's talk purging in general.  The middle of the season is actually a great time to do this.  If you don't want to do a full a full wardrobe clean-up, just take a look at what you haven't worn at all this season.  If the item is only for certain occasions (i.e. ski sweater for skiing) leave it.  However, anything else?  Now is the perfect time to get it out of your wardrobe.  If the reason is something like - this year you don't like the way it fits or the color or cut - take it out.  If it's showing obvious signs of wear* - take it out.  It's no longer "in style"?  I think this one is a little trickier - pay attention to the item.  Is that the only reason you aren't wearing it?  Maybe it just doesn't fit your style anymore?  That's okay ...take it out.  All of these reasons are great motivators to getting these items out of your wardrobe.  

Next step - clean them (if needed) and get them to their next home.  If they are in great condition it's the perfect item for consignment.  Many of the consignment stores are close to switching from winter to spring so check before you take it.  If that's the case, no worries.  Pack the clean items in a container labeled "fall consign" and put away until then.  Items more worn but still in good condition?  Donate them to your favorite non-profit.  Items not fit for wearing or painting in?  Either trash them, use them for rags or find a non-profit that can take them and recycle.  Please don't take anything you yourself wouldn't wear and donate for someone else to wear.    This same process is true for shoes, coats, and accessories.  Take advantage of the mid-season gray days and do this now.  I know for me, this week alone, my favorite clogs literally split both soles and my favorite rain boots started leaking.  Bye bye to both.  

The good news about all of this is 2-fold really.  First and most important to me...you'll feel better, maybe a little more put together even.  Maybe you'll be inspired to create new outfits with what has been kept.  Second - and * from the paragraph above - those items you love but are worn out?  You will find most of them on sale right now to replace.  You don't even necessarily have to wear it this season.  Pack it away new for next year and it will be a fun surprise when you unpack for fall.  

Here in West Michigan it's that point in the season when you feel like Spring is not coming.  I love doing something like a closet refresh to bring a little sunshine in.  I hope I've inspired you to do the same.  

Thoughts on the fanny pack ...

Fashion trends are a funny thing sometimes.  What is certain though, everything will come around again...it's all a cycle.  A current return is not one of my favs so I though I would politely offer some alternatives.  Let's see what you think...it's the fanny pack.  The last time I remember this little package of wonder being popular was sometime in the 80's.  I can't get behind it this time, sorry.  I get the convenience to it - pack what you need - hands free- no strain on the shoulders or back.  I also "see" the convenience - it sits on your belly or side or perhaps you take it at face value and rest it on your fanny.  For me, this isn't my most flattering look.  It isn't a fashion piece that helps me #ownmystyle.  I prefer an alternative. 

I like the idea of hands free, less strain on the shoulder, fashionable all of that.  So I introduce to you the crossbody bag.  I am quite certain you've met before, especially if you are a fan of handbags as I am.  There are soooo many styles, materials, colors and sizes of crossbody bags it would be impossible for you to not find one you love.  I've pre-shopped for you - here are some of my favs :)  Unless of course you are a fan of the trend - in which case - snap it on and carry on.  

To wear or not to wear ...

Do you have a favorite pair of pants?  You can't count jeans!  I do.  Well, more so, I have a favorite style of pant.  I found 2 pair I love equally, from different brands, so I bought them both.  The pants?  A simple wide leg cropped pant in black.  The fabric on both is a mid-weight washable fabric that makes these pants perfect for almost any time of year.   The styles though very similar, have just enough different details that it was worth buying both.  One pair is plain, zip in the front button closure.  The other pair zips on the side with silver buckles at the waist on each side.  The seaming on both pair make the pants flattering for all body types.  

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This look I paired with my MaryJanes, tights and a layered blouse and cropped sleeveless sweater for a holiday party.  If the temps had been really cold I would do fleece lined tights for warmth but otherwise I love this look for colder months.  For me, the wider leg balances my body shape and helps me own my style.  

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This look is great for fall or spring.  I have the mules I'm wearing in both fur-lined and unlined.  I paired the pants with the mules, a sleeveless mock sweater with a denim jacket.  I love the mulit-strand pearl necklace to add a pop to the outfit.  All these elements together for this outfit again, helped me own my style. I have also worn the pants with a simple long sleeve tshirt and mules and a light cardigan (or the jean jacket) for Spring or Fall.  In the summer I do the same thing with a short sleeve shirt and sandals or wedges, depending on the occasion.  I love all the options for these pants.  I have added a khaki green pair in canvas recently because I am such a fan of this silhouette.  

If you want to get technical, in most cases you see 2 key silhouettes if you are searching for a wide leg pant.  A search for a full leg/wide leg full length trouser will most likely show examples of palazzo pants. A cropped version is often called a culotte which typically reaches either knee length or calf length.  For my style, I like the cropped length better because, you guessed it, there are more options.  I love a full palazzo pant for a dressy look.  I think, if styled with perhaps a glittery top, can easily replace a cocktail dress. But, I digress or trail off... here are some examples of the cropped styles:

One of my favs....

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If I have a fav look, this might be it.  I paired the pants with tights and my MaryJanes (surprise!), a beautiful flowy top and used a scarf as a belt to complete the look.  This outfit I wore in the winter as well and it was perfect, regardless the temps.  This outfit was perfect for a holiday dinner the Mister and I attended.  I topped it off with my vintage pink wool full length coat which adds just the right amount of "dress" for me.  Once again, I was able to own my style in this look.  I am 5'4" which some would say is too short for a cropped wide leg pant but I disagree.  First, I don't like rules like that and second I don't think it's true.  What's always been most important is that you own what you're wearing and make it yours.  I think confidence is the best thing you wear.  

What's your favorite pant?  How are you wearing it?  How are you owning your style?

Gray Dress

I love a piece in my wardrobe that really "pays" for itself.  A piece that can be worn in different ways for different occasions and all the while easy to wear and doesn't cause any stress.  I have mentioned before about investment pieces in your wardrobe.  The pieces that will remain in your wardrobe for any length of time are worth spending a little more money on.  Having said that it's not about always spending more money as much as it is about finding quality pieces to build your wardrobe.  I found this gray dress last year on a sale rack at TJMaxx.  The silhouette of the Aline along with the ease of the fabric makes the dress flattering on many body types.  The neckline allows for so many options of accessories from a simple strand of pearls to a scarf to layers of necklaces.  Options ...we always need options.  I love that I can totally change the feel of the dress based on footwear.  Pair it with tights and boots, tights and my fav MaryJanes, booties or even pumps.  I can layer underneath with a long sleeve tee to give it a more casual vibe or keep it simple with a scarf around the neck and no layer underneath for a totally different look.  

I love going to the closet and pulling something out to wear that didn't take much effort but still looks great instantly.  There is always mention of a Little Black Dress but not often of the gray dress.  A dress like this I would have been willing to spend more than the $30 bucks I spent but I was lucky enough to find a bargain.  If you don't have a versatile dress like this, find one you love like I did and have fun finding all the different ways to wear it.  

gray dress layered
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gray dress layered again

Investing in Winter

If you're like me and it's winter where you live, stay tuned.  

I will state some obvious things first.  Winter is cold.  Fashion is great.  Getting a great item on sale is awesome.  Staying warm while looking great is even better.  Just because you love fashion and live where it is cold right now doesn't mean you still can't look and feel fabulous.  Having stated the obvious, I have to state the practical as well.  You can't forgo function for the sake of fashion.  In addition, and equally important, there are key winter pieces that will be investment pieces.  Pieces you need to spend money on in order to get the quality and function you need.  The bonus?  There are sales everywhere right now so you may be able to find the high quality you need for a lower price.  Here is what I mean:

Let's start with the coat.  If you live in a cold climate winter is not the time to buy the cute lightweight jacket.  You need to invest in a piece that's going to keep you warm.  At the same time I know, you don't want to look like a marshmallow.  I believe the best place for outerwear is Eddie Bauer.  No one told me to say that, I just believe it's true.  (full disclosure, I did work for Eddie Bauer a million years ago).  The coats are down-filled but not overly heavy and guaranteed to keep you warm.  The color choices and design will add the fashion necessary to take away any feelings of frump.  The quality is second to none. You will truly be able to wear this coat for many years and with the classic style you won't have to worry about whether it's on trend or not.   Bonus*--many styles are on sale right now.  Don't forget the gloves.  Look for a pair with thinsulate lining  so even though they aren't think sausage fingers, you hands will be warm.  

Boots - I am not quite as brand loyal on boots but I will say, again this should be an investment piece.  You need to spend money to get a great pair of boots that will not only keep your feet warm, but more importantly dry.  Again, I like a cute pair of boots with heels as much as the next fashionista, but you need function here people!  Pictured are a great pair of Sorel brand boots.  They "check off all the boxes" for what to buy in winter boots.  They will keep your feet warm and dry, they are excellent quality, AND super cute.  I would pair these boots just as quickly with a cute sweater dress as I would leggings and a sweater.  

Speaking of sweaters and dresses.  I love the look of a sweater dress in the winter.  You can still make that happen and look great.  Pair the dress with fleece-lined tights and the boots and you still look like you own your style.  I think it's important to mention, whether it's a sweater or sweater dress - spend you money here.  Don't buy the cheaply made trendy piece.  Either save up fashion dollars for the investment or better still - buy the better quality on sale.  January is a great time to find cashmere and high-quality merino wool on sale.  

I know for many of us, we are thick in the middle of snow and cold cold weather, but at least for me, I want to still own my style.  Stay warm and not frumpy out there fashionistas!!

NYE in...

Whether you're spending New Year's Eve in at your home or the home of a friend, you don't have to leave sparkle behind.  

I love the thought of a casual party at someone's home versus all the mayhem of being "out" somewhere.  Sometimes when the party moves to someone's house the party attire gets left behind.  Regardless of the occasion or the venue, don't lose your chance to own your style.  You can still be comfy but have some sparkle to match your style.  Here is one idea:

A simple gray cashmere sweater paired with dark straight, simple jeans. Jewelry includes a bold statement necklace and crystal stud earrings. I always opt for one or the other - statement necklace and simple earrings or statement earrings and simple necklace.  Next, add an adorable shoe - I love the pop of red from the block heel maryjanes or the simple sophistication of the pointed suede pump.  Finish off the look with a sequin clutch and you are party ready.  If you love a blazer or jacket add a simple tee or screen print tee underneath in place of the sweater.  Not a "heels" type?  Add a great pair of sneakers like the Adidas with the gold stripes on the side.  As I always say, what's most important is that you own your style.  

 

Cheers to the New Year - who's with me??

12 Days of Gift Ideas - Day 12 Last Minute Gifts

It is Christmas Eve and we are at the "Last Minute Gift" moments of this holiday season.  Consider some of these suggestions for your last minute gift ideas before you head to the gift card station first.  

 

Print a favorite picture of you and the person and frame it.  If you have a picture of a place they have been you could easily print that as another option.

Purchase one of the subscription services or boxes I have mentioned previously in this 12 days of gifts series.  Some of the subscriptions offer short time frames or even a 1-time purchase.

Make a grown-up version of a coupon booklet for your person with fun stuff such as:  a day at their favorite museum with you, a movie with you, dinner or lunch with you.  You can customize this booklet just for them as I mentioned in the gift ideas for moms with littles.  Maybe it's someone who needs extra help around the house or help with a project.  You can offer your time in a more creative way by creating and printing something out.

Make a basket of some of their favorite things.  You can be so creative with this.  Choose their favorites from several different things.  For example, a favorite dvd, favorite snacks, favorite socks, favorite bottle of wine, etc. 

Happy Shopping!

A very Merry Christmas to you !