May 22, 2009 at 7:20 pm | In Accessories, Beauty, Fashion Fixers, Floral prints, clothes, color, colorful clothes, fashion, style | Leave a Comment
Scarves! Next to rings, bracelets, necklaces, handbags, shoes, and belts, scarves are my favorite accessory. But it currently has bubbled to the top of my pool of adornments as my current favorite.
Let’s explore because a life without scarves is a life not worth living.
An organic silk chiffon short scarf can be the perfect dose of color to an otherwise simple neutral top. The scarf can be tied in a short, taut bow, dangle loosely to the side (as pictured) or just tie two points behind your neck for a drapey/cowel-like effect.
A long, skinny scarf like this, made from silk chiffon can be wrapped several times around your neck like a faux-turtleneck. Alternatively, you can wrap it one single time, loosely with both ends in front. I even love to tie these in my hair and let the ends hang down my back.
This boho-chic number can be used for warmth on a crisp spring morning and then transforms into an accessory against a crisp white shirt or tank top. Heck, I'd even pair this with a hot pink top (you risk looking like an Easter egg, but who cares?). I like to pair scarves like this with a comfy v-neck t-shirt and my favorite jeans on a Saturday afternoon of movies or errands.
This viscose scarf can provide warmth with your best pea coat or driving coat in fall weather. With the pom poms and ruffle-y layers of fabric, it's feminine and functional, chic and cozy.
How beautiful--a-spring-made-from-wool-for-the-winter! This wrap (super wide as it is long) drapes casually over your shoulders for an effortless pop of color to layer over your coat and again over your shirt when the coat comes off. The colors are delicious and bright, successfully reminding you that spring is just around the corner.
Linen is a natural fiber, lightweight, comfortable and high quality. This casual scarf should be loosely draped around your neck, or for some drama, over your head 50's-style for a ride with the top down in a convertible (if you have one).
Possibly one of the most famous designers of scarves, pictured above is the signature colorful, geometric silk of Pucci. This is a scarf masterfully turned into a top. If you're not this daring, you can certainly tie it around your neck and pin it with a beautiful golden broach. This is a pricey accessory, but Pucci says instant class and will never, ever go out of style.
Make no mistake–scarves are not just for warmth. I’d argue that’s the last thing they’re for! They’re an accessory, a necessary one. They come in all price points, lengths, widths, and functions. There are umpteen books dedicated to just tying a scarf.
Go.
Buy.
Play.
More multiples
May 16, 2009 at 8:53 am | In Floral prints, clothes, fashion | Leave a CommentTags: Cardigans, sweaters
And I’m not referring to children.
Another item to buy in multiples…The Cardigan.
In it’s simplest form, it’s a sweater that opens in the front. How it opens, the way it in which it closes, the fit, fabric and silhouette are all variables that depend on the designer and the way you choose to “cover-up”. Cardigans are worn over everything–camisoles, t-shirts, oxfords, dresses, with skirts, with pants, with jeans…the works. Here are some of my faves right now.
This cardigan drapes elegantly and remains open at the front, but has the cinched waist to add structure and an hourglass shape.
A classic style that's never dated, the crew neck cardigan has a modest neckline and adds a polished effect to anything you throw it over. I'd wear this with a bright floral or loud geometric pattern underneath. The plain cardigan will balance the overpowering pattern.
The crochet of this tie-waist number gives some interest to an otherwise plain color (oatmeal is tasty but can be blah-boring in clothing) that could wash you out. Put this on over a simple black dress for a jazzy effect or a hyper-bright camisole and watch the color peek through the weave of the crochet. This will add dimension to a plain and simple outfit.
This one is sporty with it's thick rugby-like stripes but the twist is in the color combination. It may seem loud but let this cardigan be the focus of your outfit and keep everything else simple. Pair this with jeans or plain, flat front trousers and a simple t-shirt or classic white oxford (cuffs, collar, and tail peeking out). If you're worried the horizontal strips will widen you, button only the middle one or two buttons to create an hourglass shape.
This version is slouchy with an intentionally drape-y fit. But rest assured that slouchy does not equal sloppy if you layer it with a fitted top. Try a bold emerald green or bright orange with this soft navy blue pictured above. And, on the bottom, try your favorite light colored denim or even a classic pencil skirt and heels.
Cardigans aren’t just for sweater sets (snooze). They are a versatile, comfortable, and essential garment that any woman needs more than one of in her closet. It’s a fast fix to punch up a clean look. Find a style (or styles) you like, and buy in basic black, a pattern or stripe of your choice, and your favorite solid color for endless permutations with your various tops and bottoms.
Multiples
April 11, 2009 at 2:36 pm | In fashion | 1 CommentWhile I have a strict personal rule to not repeat an outfit in its entirety more than once in 45-60 days, I do very much endorse buying certain items in doubles, triplicate, and even quadruplicate. Why? Because there are certain pieces of clothing that double and triple in their use. Here’s what I mean.
Multiple-Item-#1: Stretch Leggings
Cotton/Nylon/Jersey/Modal leggings (with spandex!) are one of the most basic pieces a woman can own and apply to different ensemble scenarios in a multitude of ways. Simple black leggings can be worn as pants under a long tunic or sweater with boots that reach the knee (more funky risk-takers will wear them with old-school kicks). Thicker versions (that don’t run the risk of becoming transparent when you bend over…ladies you know this awful sight) can be worn with shorter, loose-fitting tops and pumps. Pair them with comfortable ballet flats and you’re ready for running errands, seeing a movie, shopping or visiting family. Or, just wear them to lounge around in your house or apartment on a rainy Sunday afternoon (as I am, today). Now that we are approaching spring, however, cropped leggings are a great alternative to the longer version.
Leggings Tip: The more expensive they are, the better they’ll hold their shape. After all, cotton is just cotton…not magic.
Multiple-Item-#2: Ballet Flats
The simple flat is such a versatile shoe and can go from work to home, commute, shopping, travel, and back again. I love the ballet flat because the round toe and non-existent heel makes it a blank canvas just about any outfit. The colors and fabrics are endless, making them primed for multiple purchase and endless use. And, the beauty? They come in a range of price points! Once you find a brand and style that’s comfortable for you, buy them in multiples pronto! I’d suggest a black (or even two pair of black since they’ll be your most worn pair), of course. Then, choose a metallic like a silver or a gold; these colors can be used as neutrals and worn with any color(s). Last, try your hand (or foot) at a fun patent leather pair in a bright color. The happy color will bring simple jeans an element of surprise and is an easy accessory that will make you smile everytime you look down. Ballet flats are great with chinos, dresses, skirts (either bare-legged or with tights), trousers, walking shorts, and (if age-appropriate) mini-skirts. Go crazy and plie your heart out.
Multiple-Item-#3: Jeans
Today, the word “jeans” equates to more colors, styles, and price points than countries on a globe. My suggestion is that you buy the best jeans your budget can afford. The more you pay for denim, the better your as$ looks and the less you have to do to make your outfit look amazing. For some of us, that means the price point tops out at $45. For others, it could be $350.
First find the right cut to give your figure the most flattering silhouette. After you determine this (boot cut, straight leg, trouser, etc), choose several washes or colors in that same cut. And, if you want to take it one step further, buy two pair of the exact same pair and have them altered; one for flats and one for heels. Denim is an investment that goes on and on. I have a pair of jeans from Armani|Exchange that I’ve owned for 5+ years. They look as good today as the day I bought them. I have a pair by Citizens of Humanity that cha-chinged in at $200 (post shortening). Guaranteed, I look like a super-model every time I put them on. My experience says that a few (though there are tons) brands for curvy women is Joe’s Jeans (style: Honey) or, Kut, and classic Levi’s . No matter if you buy your jeans from the Gap, Bloomingdales, Banana Republic, or an outlet on the outskirts of your hometown, ensure that they are comfortable when you sit, stand, and lunge (yes, lunge in the dressing room!). At least 2% spandex is essential for the crucial “snap-back” after you’ve been wearing them all day.
Conclusion on Multiples:
There is nothing wrong with repeating as long as you swap out key elements. Wear those ballet flats all week but switch up your pants or dress. Sport your new jeans on casual Friday and movie-Saturday-afternoon; one day with a blazer and simple t-shirt and the other day with a silk blouse and heels. Go and buy, again, again, and again.
This’ll be a “to be continued” feature. There are a great many more multiple-worthy pieces to be had. Stand by…
More things I love
February 28, 2009 at 10:25 am | In Accessories, Floral prints, Hand bags, clothes, color, colorful clothes, current trends, fashion, style | 1 CommentTags: Green handbags, Sweatshirts
Continuing on through my Loves in wardrobing and accessories, I bring you these juicy nuggets of fashionable, useful perfection.
Non-leather bags with popping patterns:
(Splurge) – Orla Kiely: I’m seeing this bag, in every style, on the shoulders of some fabulous women all over the city. Young, older, funky and more conservative, it doesn’t matter the woman. This bag has a style and a pattern to fit your mood, functional needs and overall aesthetic preferences. The fabric is canvas (100% cotton) and they’re coated for extra strength and durability (and you can take a sponge to them to clean them up!). Below is one of my favorite styles.
(Steal) – Jane Marvel: Marvel’s bags are the same concept (coated cotton canvas in sumptuous patterns and striking colors) but with a lower price tag. This make the bag more palatable to my taste buds and in this economy, yours too. Below is the style I personally own (in the Stars/Night pattern).
Sweatshirts that act as everyday, work and play clothes
Don’t know about you, but the older I get, the more I value comfort as much as style. Long gone are the days when I’d sit all the live-long day in a stiff button down blouse. Now it’s all about fluid materials that move with me and allow for maximum comfort but are still pleasing to my body shape and appropriate for my everyday activities (a la work!). I own both of the items below.
Brooklyn Industries Iris Zip Fleece: The off-set zipper and oversized, bias collar, and 3/4 length sleeves give this sweatshirt (really, a faux-hoodie) chic and urban details. And, if you choose the alternate colors (i.e. not heather gray) and pair it with trousers (denim or classic), you’re bound to be cozy, comfy, and polished.
Smitten One Button Belted Sweatshirt: I own this one as shown in the classic heather gray. But the big button at the collar and the tie waist along with the trapeze style make this the new, comfy swing jacket. This is perfect for the in-between seasons. Heck, I’d wear this to and from the gym. It goes anywhere! I like to put it with a short neck scarf to add color near my face and either a rich-colored pair of pants or pencil skirt and heels.
Finally! I’m Skinny!
February 22, 2009 at 8:54 am | In fashion | 4 CommentsTags: Citizens of Humanity, Denim, designer jeans, skinny jeans, straight leg jeans
I did it! I finally found skinny jeans! I know, I know…who cares? But the truth is, I do. I care because I really, really love the look of skinny jeans. They flatter so many figure shapes, including those who are curvy! In fact, I think they work best to our advantage 
My issue with skinny jeans was that they fit, well, skinny. I’m not used to “feeling” and being “aware” of my clothes. Every time I took a step, I’d feel them crease at the back of my knee. They were always too low-rise (I’m 30; I can’t do the g-string popping out look anymore). And, when I walked, the jeans would pull themselves down because they never properly fit over the thickest part of my thighs.
I’d sigh, throw yet another pair to the side in the dressing room and resolve to notion that if I wanted the skinny jean look, I’d have to do it via leggings. But I tell you ladies that now, I believe every woman can have the skinny jeans no matter what!
My secret? I bought straight legged jeans which on my body, act as skinny jeans. They taper, they tuck in, and they streamline my lower half.
What’s so special? Take a look.
CITIZENS OF HUMANITY; ELSON IN TEMPEST (COLOR)
- Wash: Tempest (dark rinse = sophisticated and slenderizing)
- 34″ inseam (great to ruche at the ankles, fold up, or just tailor if necessary)
- 8″ rise (this is key!! not low-rise, sits just at your naval)
- 98% cotton, 2% elastin (this is the other key – you want stretch and preferably no less than 2% spandex or elastin)
- 14″ in the knee (for those who don’t have a super-slim leg, this is an average opening that allows for comfort)
Cost: $189
Pricey? Yes. But these jeans will last you at least 5 years or as long as you deem them stylish. I have jeans that I bought in 2004 that are still alive and kicking. Essentially, it pays to pay. I recommend dry cleaning no more than once every 3 months and never, ever wash them. Once you break them in, keep them broken in. Washing will only tighten them up and stiffen the cotton. We’re not children anymore dealing with stains of grass and dirt. Keep your denim clean and it’s not necessary to wash them often, if at all.
Go try on the different styles of Citizens denim. They have a ton of straight and skinny leg styles. The key message–Citizens knows what it’s doing when it comes to comfy, skinny jeans. I know…I can finally wear them!
White Ts – Your Basic’s Basic
February 12, 2009 at 1:42 pm | In clothes, fashion, trendy clothes, women | 1 CommentTags: T-shirts
There’s nothing more standard, more comfortable, more accepted, more versatile than the white T-shirt. It takes on many forms: v-neck, crew neck, 100% cotton, some spandex, henley, long-sleeve, short-sleeve, ballet neck, tank top, long tank top…you get the idea. It really doesn’t matter what style of a white T you like, we all need them and we all default to them as the basis for many an ensemble.
Some tips when buy cotton T-shirts, particularly white:
- Try to buy a cotton blend (cotton/spandex; cotton/modal; cotton/nylon). They offer snap-backability so they keep their shape and don’t stretch out.
- When you go to buy a T-shirt, make sure it stretches lengthwise and widthwise. Tug on it from the neck down and from one side to the other to ensure a good stretch and bounce back.
- Thickness: tissue thin is great but it’s just that…thin. So make sure you know how you want to use your Ts–underneath versus on its own.
Some of my favorite Ts are below and here’s why…
White Tanks
These layer under the itchy sweater, under a semi-sheer top, work for you in a workout, can be dressed up with jewelry and a blazer and offer the best in sleeping comfort. I typically will take advantage of the “Buy 2 for $15″ at some chain store, wear them for the season, throw them away and replenish. Cheap tanks are fine for sleeping or lounging around. But they don’t necessarily take well to the streets or work or play. Some alternatives that my be a bit more pricey but well worth it. They last a little longer, they hold their shape a great deal better, and they are a mix of cotton with other soft, stretchy fabrics to make them more comfortable than your average cotton tank.
James Perse: $45–The key is the fabric, cotton and modal. Premium stretch and superb snap back. Finally, a rib knit that doesn’t stretch out!
Splendid: $44–This is an alternative to a body-skimming tank but still maintains the integrity of the definition. A loose, flowy fabric offers you max-comfort and it still works as a layer underneath jackets and sweaters.
White V-Neck
The v-neck is a flattering neckline for most any woman, particularly those who have am ample chest. It also makes for a great framework for a beautiful necklace or scarf. Long-, short-, or somewhere in between, the V-neck is clean and crisp with dark denim or any dark colored pants, and uber-comfy underneath your favorite hoodie.
Michael Stars: $46. This style does a world of good for two reasons. First, the V is wide and elegant. Second, a 1/2 length sleeve that hits at the elbow is very flattering for women who have larger arms as it hits the narrowest point on the arm. It’s long enough to peek out underneath a shorter cardigan or sweater and it covers the belly if you’re wearing low-rise bottoms.
LA Made: $41. Long sleeve v-necks look great underneath short-sleeved tops, sweaters or cropped jackets. I have two myself and they serve as the basis for many winter outfits for a layer of warmth and a peek of slouchy style under a brightly colored sweater.
Camisoles
Camisole is the cousin of the tank. The basic difference is that the strap is spaghetti in width rather than the 1″ width of the tank. Every woman should own a variety of camisoles in a variety of colors. I use them under any top that plunges too far in the neckline making it appropriate for work. I wear them around my apartment, I wear them on a super hot day when I’m running errands, and I wear them under most sweaters or cardigans.
Hanro Grace 1927: $54. The lace at the top is a pretty detail that renders jewelry unnecessary, but for a simple pair of hoop earrings. It’s smooth to the body making it an easy layer without adding bulk and long enough to cover any peeking tummy from the waistband of your bottoms. This same simple style is also available without the lace…and in every color under the sun.
Ella Moss: (sale) $55 Ella makes flirty and feminine clothes in comfortable fabrics. This camisole is loose and flowy, pretty classic white.
the power of your clothes
February 1, 2009 at 7:41 pm | In fashion | 2 CommentsI had a bunch of clothes that were in wonderful condition but weren’t working for me anymore. I didn’t necessarily just want to give them to charity or try and sell them at the thrift store in Brooklyn. Instead, upon making my two friends brunch today, I pulled out the bag of clothes and started to go through them to see if either of them sparked to any of the garments I was ready to let go.
Amy took several pieces that I must say, looked way more fabulous on her than on me. And I felt like a good Samaritan. Why? Because good clothes went to a good woman and put a smile on her face. That’s what clothes are about. Smiling and feeling good about ourselves.
The beauty of clothes is that they can make you feel a certain mood or emotion. You put on a suit and you’re powerful, assertive, and almost intimidating. Throw on the LBD and you’re hot. Slouchy sunday jeans make you feel fun, fluid, and ready for a movie or the paper and some coffee. Of course, in a woman’s life, the one thing that makes us feel the ultimate emotion is the wedding gown. Clothes have that power if you give it to them.
I say, give the clothes the power. Let your wardrobe pull out emotions from you. Let your outfit remind you of the emotions you haven’t felt in a while. Let the colors lift your spirit when you’re not able to do so on your own. Put on a fabulous bra and matching panties when you feel fat. You’ll feel insta-pretty. Wear your expensive boots and hand bag with your t-shirt and jeans and feel chic without trying. If you’re feeling sick, try a bright yellow or citrus color and breathe in your health. I swear on my Cole Haan tote, clothes, colors, and fabrics have the ability to take you from low to high.
That’s my insight for a Sunday evening. Let your clothes pull out the best in you. You’ll get compliments and your mood, spirits, and attitude will be elevated and prance around on the good words that people throw your way. Between that and the morning cup of coffee…what else do you need for a kick-start to your day?
Things I love
January 24, 2009 at 9:56 pm | In Beauty, Coats, Shorts, body image, color, current trends, self-image, shopping, style, style consultant, summer clothes, women | 1 CommentMy sister sent me a message saying that it’s been nearly four months since I last posted. And prior to that, someone questioned if I even had a right to blog since I hadn’t written in so long. I get the message. So I’m writing now.
I don’t have a specific topic in mind. Rather, I’d like to just post on the stuff I love.
ITEM #1 I LOVE: the color navy blue.
I heart navy blue. It’s my new BF (best friend, for those who don’t spend much time in the IM/Text world). It’s my fabulous alternative to black and gray. It’s my neutral to go with any pink, purple, cream, brown, stripe, dot, green or orange. It’s my dark for the days I want to look more lean. It’s my transient color for every season. Navy is my new black. I even wear it with black because I don’t fear dark on dark.
When you think black, think Navy Blue for:
Accessories: a wallet or hand bag
Trousers: they can be your new basic black pant
Coats: they go with every color in your closet – it’s your neutral coat for the chilliest of winters
Shoes: I mean, navy shoes with chocolate brown trousers or hot skinny jeans, does it get better? (PS – skinny jeans with super high heels means even us girls with thicker thighs look long and lean…and still girly-curvy)
ITEM #2 I LOVE: PONCHOS (AKA WRAPS, CAPES, AND ANY OF THESE WITH A HOOD)
Ponchos are a savvy alternative to a thick coat when the temps are mild. They come in so many colors, styles, and fabrics which make them a standout jewel in your closet. Throw over a cotton turtleneck, a thin cashmere sweater or even a t-shirt (no one will know) and don’t even bother taking it off during the day. It acts as your top.
Here are some of my faves:
Big, thick stripes. Throw this berry colored number over your favorite pair of black pants, dark denim, or even light khakis and you’re comfortable, warm, and sporting an easy-peasy splash of color in your outfit
Embellished, ready for evening: This gorgeous, charcoal poncho with the lacy-loopy border is begging to be worn out on the town. Put on a pencil skirt and knee-high boots or put on a tissue thin white tank (extra long) over sleek black pants with peep toe heels. Think big hoop earrings and big silver rings. And if you want to tone it down, put it over a simple shift dress as a point of interest for an office ensemble.
Poncho as a coat: This is great way to rid yourself of the wool coat in more milder climates or those lucky NY days when we hit 50+ in the winter. Simple heather gray is fine, but put on a brightly-colored kerchief around your neck and a matching bangle and you’re toasty on your commute, in your office, or in that freezing meat-locker of a movie theatre.
ITEM #3 I LOVE: CROSS-STRAP BAGS
I’m thinking forget those gi-mundo hand bags with heavy leather and metal work fit for a high-rise welder (I love you Marc Jacobs, but sometimes your bags weigh me down). How about a sleek, flush-to-the-body messenger or envelope bag? Throw a truncated version of a wallet (i.e. a zippy change purse with your ID, debit card, metro card, and a couple $20’s) your mobile of choice, lip gloss and your keys, secure it across your body and you’ve got hands free chic.
My personal picks are:
Envelope Bag: You don’t have to go designer, but you can go basic black and thin.
Envelope Bag #2: How about a little rock star in your life?
Flat, Messenger-type bag: Do it in color
Weave It and Go: Beaten-in brown goes with all
ITEM #4 I LOVE: DARK NAILS.
I’m over that pale, non-color, natural, white-ish look. Go dark. Go hot. I like straight black. But there are a ton of classy, all-appropriate, dark and uber-Euro looking polishes to suit all needs. It’s winter; go dark! (And a tip that’s obligatory–do not wear these colors on long nails. They must be short to avoid looking like a h…well you know what I’m getting at. Don’t say I didn’t warn you)
A little purple you like? Try OPI’s Lincoln Park After Dark
Feeling a bit blue? OPI’s Russian Navy is subtlely sparkly and deep
Chocolate Addiction: It’s all about Essie’s Chocolate Kisses
Very, very vamp if you’re feeling seductive: MAC’s Vintage Vamp is your best bet
And those, dear sister, are the things I love.
Sometimes you just let it go
September 30, 2008 at 8:27 pm | In fashion | Leave a CommentIn the last few days I have been encountered several times with clothes that I love, love, love. Unfortunately, they have been clothes that I can’t, can’t, can’t wear. Why? Because they don’t work for my body.
I’m 5′2″ and my body shape is a modest hourglass. But I’m full in the thighs for certain. That said, between my height and my lower half, things that emphasize hips just don’t work.
Example: High-waisted, wide-legged, pleated trouser jeans or pants.
Unfortunately, even if I’m wearing heels, the wide legs of the pants make me look short and squat. I’m not particularly long-torsoed either, which means there is not a whole lot of room between the high waist and my breast line making me look even more squat. Even though I love them, I have to let them go.
Example: Large puff or kimono-sleeved tops
I have a small frame with a small head and shoulders. If I wear a very voluminous garments on top, I look like I’m drowning in my clothes. I look overwhelmed and almost silly. That said, I have to be super careful in applying this trend (because I love these shapes!). I have to be very fitted or tailored with whatever garment I pair a voluminous top. Or, I have to incorporate some structure to an otherwise fluid fabric and shape with a belt or tailored pants. But the default is usually, “I love it, but I have to let it go.”
Important Lesson: Not all things that are trendy look good on everyone. Not all things we love are good for us in fashion. Not all things we want will be harmonious with our inherent features. Appreciate your body’s own natural lines and shape and work with it, not against.
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