Here is a great dress to wear for a nicer lunch or casual dinner. It can be dressed up a little more by adding different jewelry or a higher heel.

Notes: The turquoise jewelry is a great combination with brown. It’s easier to tie it all together when you have some brown coloring in the stones. Notice the necklace is on a brown cord. I often choose earrings and bracelets that are “multi-stoned” or “mixed metals”.  This allows much more versatility with your jewelry and keeps you from the “matchy-matchy” look. I will continue to share examples of this in upcoming posts.

-There are two choices for a clutch depending on how daring you want to be.

-Self conscious about your shoulders and arms? Add the shrug to cover up or for another layer when it cools off in the evening.

Accentuate Winner

Thank you everyone for reading and commenting. Congratulations to Comment #10: Laurie! Thanks to all my faithful readers for making a comment. I’m excited to see some new names as well. Keep reading and entering everyone. I have several new giveaways coming–and there will be a mix of local businesses AND some for long distance readers.

Accentuate Boutique Giveaway Part 2

If you did not have a chance to make a comment on Part 1, there is still time! The Gift Certificate will be waiting at the counter with the winner’s name. While it might be fun to check out Camas this weekend, it will be good for six months. Check out the Accentuate page on Facebook to stay updated on new arrivals.

When I first walked into the store a couple of years ago, two things struck me: 1.The price point was very reasonable. There were some higher end bags and clothing, but also things I could easily afford. 2.There were styles for every age group. How often do you see that in a small store? For this post, I will let the pictures do the talking. Hats off to store owner, Sandra Koceja and former owner/present employee, Rhonda Ackman for their great sense of style and keen eye for what women love. Rhonda and Sandra tag team at market to find some unique pieces.

Accentuate specializes in tops for a special occasion. In our area, Vegas is a popular destination. Any of these combinations could also be worn for a fun night out locally.

A little more dressy..

Dresses: Something for a wedding and some a bit more casual.

Career Wear (Department stores have even stopped carrying many options for women who need a tailored look in the workplace)

Casual Tops

Jewelry! A full selection of Brighton pieces including charms (sorry, no photo) and unique designs such as Holly Yashi and Jazzola. Accentuate is one of the only stores to carry Brighton in Clark County.

Denim Bar: Joes, David Kahn, AG, Mavi, Jag, Kut from the Kloth and Worn. You can find a pair of jeans at Accentuate for $69.

I asked two employees to pick something they loved from the store and be my models. I wanted to further emphasize that there would be some things teenagers would like and be able to afford at Accentuate.

Savannah Cooper will be a Senior at Camas High School in the fall.

Angela Kern will be a Freshman at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma. A big thanks to both girls for modeling.

What caught your eye? Remember to post a comment (deadline extended to July 23 @ 7am PST) and you’ll automatically be entered for the Giveaway. And if you haven’t “read between the lines” I am also employed at Accentuate. Come and see me and I will help you put together a look you will love. I am sure I can help you find the perfect fit in denim.

Accentuate Boutique Giveaway Part 1

Accentuate is truly a unique boutique located in Camas, Washington. I’ve featured clothing and accessories in previous posts. This article will tell you a little more about the shop. It will be a two-part post. Make a comment today or Thursday by midnight PST. Friday morning the winner of a $25 Gift certificate will be announced! Perfect timing for Camas Days July 23-24. Come and check out Camas this weekend. You won’t be disappointed.

Accentuate celebrates six years this summer. Unique handbags, shoes and other accessories were featured originally when the store opened. The following year they branched out and added clothing. I’ll  begin with handbags– showing photos of many sizes and styles for various occasions. Thursday’s post will feature clothing and accessories. Previously I discussed my personal taste in handbags. Now you’ll be able to see much more. Accentuate carries the popular brands: Hobo, Lodis, Brighton, Nino Bossi and Maxx New York. I listed the brand name if you are not a local reader. You can do a search for a retailer in your area.

Large/Medium Sized Bags:

Nino Bossi, Maxx New York, Maxx New York

 Brighton, Lodis and Nino Bossi

There are special events when a smaller clutch is the perfect accessory:

Unique evening bags by Brighton:

Wallets by Lodis that can serve as a small clutch and add a pop of color to an outfit:

There are some events where you just need the basics in your bag. Large bags can be cumbersome. These options with longer strap are perfect. All by Brighton

Many women are opting for a very flat cross-shoulder bag: Brighton

Love these 3 different looks by Hobo: Large handbag, smaller wallet/clutch. Lodis bag is perfect to carry a Laptop.

Did you see a bag that would work for you? Make a comment and you’ll be automatically entered. More to come in the next post!

Belt it!

This topic has been on my list for some time. Today I will tackle the controversial fashion topic of belts. When waistlines dropped and tops stayed untucked, many women put the belt aside. NOT me. I LOVE BELTS!  20 pounds lighter, I wore  interesting, embellished belts with my jeans. Sometimes I tucked in the top and put on a jacket, other times I found one with a flat buckle, and wore the top out–just skimming over the belt. I usually layered a cami underneath that stayed tucked, outer top was out. If the top crept up, my belt showed. I still like this look, and you’ll see from the photos below that it is still in. Photos from Ann Taylor Loft.

Pants tend to slide down my hips; belts keep them in place. But…styles changed, tops got longer and my waistline got a little thicker…

I realized belts could now be worn with a longer top to add interest.  My collection of belts increased dramatically. How to wear belts? Let me show you the ways:

For some body types and thicker waistlines, it is better to wear the belt a little lower. I actually like wearing the belt looser around the hips. This really gives the outfit an added dimension and interest. The belt becomes a focal point and jewelry can be more subdued. I often combine a belt with great earrings or a bracelet. If you carry your weight around the middle, and are well endowed, this looser, lower fit is great. Make sure you are smoothing any “inconsistencies” with the proper garment underneath. Then go ahead and put on a belt. Still self conscious about your middle? Add a jacket or loose fitting cardigan. It’s difficult to give the exact belt solution for every body type through a post. If I shopped with you in person, perhaps I would find the perfect combination or I might say…belts aren’t for you. The goal of this post is to get you to think about belts in another way. Below is a chain link belt that is worn loosely and adds to the outfit.

I have found wider belts with soft leather do the trick when covering what is known as the “muffin top”. I own this belt from Silpada and love it! It is a discontinued style and is also available in black. Get it while supplies last.

Another look from Silpada… modeled by Silpada consultant, Kristi Thomas. The belt really adds to her jeans and white tee. The same belt is also shown around the waist of a dress. Click HERE to order a Silpada belt. There are several others to choose from. Kristi loves the belts, and will guide you to the right one. Silpada is known for their jewelry, and in a few weeks we’ll be doing a Giveaway, but don’t forget about the belts!

Clothes from Accentuate Boutique.

If you carry your weight below the middle or just have a small waist, belts are your friend. Show off your smaller waist with all types of belts which will highlight the waist and take the eye away from the hips or other flaws. For more tips on belts, check out Angie’s at advice at You Look Fab. She addresses belting long waist/short waist as well as blending/contrasting the color of the belt with your outfit.

Here are a couple outfits I’ve put together with a skinny belt and chain belt. Belts can be found at many price points at almost every store. Don’t overlook this section of the Accessories Department. What do you think? Will you give belts a try?

Belts from Nordstrom Rack and Macy’s.

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

It started yesterday at 7 am. I refuse to fight traffic and crowds. For years I’ve chosen to go late afternoon or early evening. Last night we headed to our largest store in the area in DT Portland (we are fortunate to have 5 stores within 40 minutes) I only had two hours, but oh the ground I can cover in that time. First stop: shoes! Then upstairs to Point of View, tbd, and Individualiast which are my favorite departments. Then a quick run through Narrative for coats.

I look forward to this event every year. When my children were young, it was a huge treat to go when my husband came home from work. I enjoy shopping this sale alone. I love taking piles of clothes into the room and playing. If time doesn’t allow, sometimes I will go back to take in the departments I miss. I could spend hours alone in the cosmetic and accessories departments. Truly the sale is an experience. I can’t say it disappointed this year, but with the early access shopping (reward for certain level of spending) it really cut down on the choices in sizes. I can’t recall ever going the first day and seeing sizes XS and XL and nothing in between.

I talked to several sales associates who have mixed feeling about this Early Access shopping. Personally, yes it’s fun to get a sneak peek and purchase early, but it just isn’t the same experience looking at a limited amount of items behind the curtain. It appears exclusive to some who wonder why they can’t go in that area. Well, that’s Nordstrom’s call, not mine. I’m just a shopper. I still found plenty of great items to share with you. I posted some on Facebook and below are even more choices. My family is in shock; my bags were very light this year. Perhaps I’m learning to follow my own advice: Less is more!

Here are a few of my favorites by category: I chose to do photos rather than links. You can search by name brand.

JACKETS: Bernardo, Guess, Athracite by Muse (personal choice)

TOPS: Halogen, Filtre, Classiques Entier (personal choice)

TEES: All Caslon

CARDIGANS: Caslon, Hinge, Bobeau(I chose this one in cream)

PANTS/JEANS: Michael Kors (LOVE THESE!) Kenneth Cole Leggings, CJ Leggings. I own the first two in black and brown and purchased the last one… great fit! Sorry-they all look the same! Lots of great choices from Kut from the Kloth at GREAT prices (not pictured) Higher end jeans now are all around $109 in t.b.d

DRESSES: Trina Turk, Classiques Entier, Halogen (personal choice)

Boots/Booties: Born, Sam Edelman (over the knee is all the rage this year!) Frye, Cole Haan, Me Too , Franco Sarto (personal choice)

ACCESSORIES: Anthology–beads and pearls are a hot trend that I love. Handbag by B. Makowsky

COATS: Guess; Guess,  DKNY

There is so much more I could share, but this gives you a few highlights. How about you? Is the Anniversary Sale a yearly event for you? What did you love? How was the selection in your area?

Piecing it Together

Here it is–your first layout of a complete outfit! I have to admit, this is fun. It brings me back to the days I used to spend playing paper dolls as a little girl. Anyone relate to that? You could layer pieces and create outfits quickly. It also reminds me of playing Barbie dolls. I spent hours changing outfits and always wanting more choices. Then I moved up to a larger “Velvet” doll with blond hair that grew. My sister-in-law made clothes for her, and how I would debate about the patterns and fabrics I wanted. Oh my, I guess all this really did start at an early age for me.

 I wanted to create a versatile outfit that could be worn several places: Casual summer party, the movies, work, casual lunch or dinner. I often hear from women: What do I wear to ________?  How do I put something together to go_______? I chose khaki, red and neutral shades of creme and brown as it is a pretty versatile combination. I like the darker shades of khaki. Khaki can be overdone and it can be really unflattering in the wrong shade/style. It can be so BLAH! If you’ve been turned off by khaki, perhaps this is why. 

1. Khaki skirt should sit right below, right at the knee or perhaps just above depending on what is age appropriate or suitable for your height and body type. This basic neutral can be substituted for ankle length pants in the same color. I like skirts. They stand out, are cooler than pants and often more comfortable and flattering.

 2. Red/white striped tank could be belted and worn out if it is not too long on you with a skirt. Could also be tucked in with belt worn around skirt’s waistband. Skirts have higher waistbands and you can get by with tucking in when it’s belted. 

 3. Fly-away cardigan is lighter weight and often cooler than regular style cardigans. If you don’t like bare arms, this is a good choice. 

 4. Accessories: I added a mixture of color and neutrals. Red is bold and you want to be careful about adding too many red accessories. The neutrals just blended well. I would NOT wear all those pieces of jewelry together. Find your focal point–one bold piece with the others more subdued. I gave 3 choices with necklace, earrings and a bracelet. At the bottom of the layout, I added in pieces that could be substituted: 

-higher heel to dress things up a little 

-denim jacket could dress it down 

 -pants if you dislike skirts 

 -white top if stripes aren’t your thing. If you nix the stripes, you could add in another colored accessory.  

Discount Stores

I realize that many of you reading may not be a fan of discount stores like Ross, Marshalls, TJ Maxx and the Nordstrom Rack. When you walk into stores like this does your head spin?

It is easy to become overwhelmed. Many clients I work with do not know where to start. I want women to get the most clothes for their money so I highly recommend learning how to shop here. It just takes a little practice and persistence. Check back frequently; you may not always hit it right. I remember years ago being frustrated at shopping The Rack. I just never found a thing. One year I was looking for a Christmas gift for a friend. She really needed clothes and I wanted to stretch my dollars. I found a couple of things, but it took forever. Oh, have I come a long way since then!

Shopping a discount store is much like learning to shop clearance sales. Be careful or you will end up with things that you don’t wear and really were not such a good deal after all.

I have my best luck at the Nordstrom Rack. In fact, there really isn’t a time I go in now and don’t find something. Unfortunately my budget does not allow me to purchase all things I find! I have also had great finds from TJ Maxx over the years but admittedly for some reason am out of the habit of going there. My hair stylist finds great handbags at TJ Maxx. I have not shopped Ross in some time but in addition to clothing, I have found decorative items for my home. Marshalls is more convenient than it was previously; I’ve been a fan for years. My greatest LBD of all time came from there. My sister called describing a dress she found at Marshalls in another state. I went to my store and there was the dress in my size for 29.99. You just gotta love that!

Here are a few tips that have helped me:

1. Know your brands for fit. Scan the various departments at Nordstrom looking for things you like. Take note of brand/section. The Rack’s rounders are often divided by department or brand name.

2. Check out the front of the store displays first. You will often find the most recent arrivals. You can also get on a list from The Rack to learn when new shipments are coming.

3. Get a cart and fill it up. Take 2 different sizes if you are unsure of fit. Try on jackets, sweaters in front of a mirror in the middle of the store if you don’t feel too conspicuous. This way you’ll have less to take into the dressing rooms.

4. Bring a friend or your stylist! (I honestly believe in years to come more people will have personal stylists to give advice) Here is why another person helps. Typically you can only take 10 items into a dressing room. If your cart is full and you have to leave it outside the dressing rooms, be sure and ask for a sign so someone else does not take it. Once you have tried on 10 things, you need another person to return the 10 and grab another 10 to take into the room. You are not going to get dressing room attention like stores and boutiques. There is no one running to grab you another size. That’s why it’s a discount store.

5. If you don’t feel like dealing with trying on clothes, be sure and check out ALL DEPARTMENTS. You will save big on handbags, jewelry and other accessories, lingerie, hosiery. If my feet were not such a problem, I would also be saving a bundle on SHOES!!

6. Know your return policies. Most are 30 days for full credit, but read your receipt carefully and keep a special envelope in your handbag for receipts if you shop frequently.

Soon you too can become an expert discount store shopper. Make it fun and I guarantee you will be bragging to your friends and family about how much you’ve saved. One of my best stories: I helped a client find $1400 worth of clothes for $475. In this day and age we need our dollars to go further. Check out the discount stores and let me know how you do.

Pack Your Trip

It’s that time of year! SUMMER VACATION! Many of us take vacations year round, but since school is out for summer it seemed the perfect time for a post about packing. I have learned a great deal about packing for trips over the years from trial and error. I have been known to take WAY too much (I like choice!) I also have been the laughing stock of my family when it comes to loading for the airport as I always have the heaviest luggage. I usually weigh in at 48.5 pounds- thankful for my scale that weighs heavy and prepared to take something out if need be. Travel has changed in recent years. Gone are the days of taking 8 pairs of shoes and as many outfits as our suitcases would hold. My luggage is only 3 years old, yet is quite heavy before clothes. In December we went to Hawaii and I knew my ways had to change. I still over-packed. Within the last months I have helped several clients pack their trip as it is an additional service I provide. Here is short version of what I teach. While it is better done in person, I can give you some basics that will help. Bear with me, it takes a few more words to explain this one!

1. Plan outfits carefully including each accessory. Lay each outfit out on your bed to get the visual of mixing/matching. The capsule concept is the best when it comes to cutting down numbers of garments (see below) If you have choices, go for the lightest weight option.

2. Try on each outfit as you plan to wear it before you put it in the suitcase. Even if it is something you wear regularly, trying a new combination may not look just right on. Weight fluctuates. Take the time to try on to avoid disappointment and unexpected purchases (well that may not be a bad thing!)

3. Plan ways to layer and be prepared for the weather to be different than the forecast. Lightweight cardigans are the best way to add warmth quickly especially if it cools off in the evening or you’re hitting heavily air conditioned places.

4. You already know how I feel about scarves. This is the perfect thing to slip in a suitcase to cover bare arms. One of my clients was going on a European cruise. Even in June she wasn’t sure what to expect. She gets cold easily. Solution: A scarf.

My best tip is from my personal experience. LEARN TO LET GO OF THE LUXURY OF CHOICE IN YOUR CLOSET AT HOME. Simply said: You can’t take it all!

The best way to learn the concept of mixing/matching is by creating CAPSULES. This concept is one many stylists use when helping clients shop. It works beautifully for packing.

1. Choose one or more capsule colors depending on the length of your trip. When creating a capsule, you want to center around your NEUTRAL colored bottom pieces: Pants, skirts, shorts. Good color choices are black, brown, or navy. Brown capsule bottoms could be varying shades from chocolate to khaki. Black could include gray or even white. The amount of pieces in your capsule depends on if you are able to do laundry, amount of space you have and how tired you can become of wearing the same thing. A 5 or 7 piece capsule can give you up to 12 outfits depending on if you count the combinations without the jacket separately.

2. Next add tops that will go with EACH BOTTOM. I think prints add variety–your choice. Please keep in mind that I’ve chosen pictures where the pieces coordinate in color– style was not my first preference.

3. Finally add a jacket or cardigan that will go with BOTH tops and ALL bottoms.

4. If possible, ONE pair of shoes with this capsule, two at the most. It will depend on amount of walking required on trip. Obviously the Puma street sneaker shown wouldn’t work with the skirt. I also left out accessories. You’ll see more of that in another post.

My friend Leigh Anne over at Your Homebased Mom asked for a phone consultation about packing. She blogged about her outfits and took photos which I recommend to everyone. Note the multi-colored brown, black, pink, coral top with brown rosettes around the collar. I wore this one day to her house and she asked about it. It is the ultimate capsule piece as it goes with 3 neutral colors and several cardigan options. Although Leigh Anne didn’t take the photos in capsule groupings, you can get the idea of where she was going with her packing. Layout in capsule format is a visual that can help you see quickly what could be eliminated. She wanted more choices and I think she did great!

And now to “unveil” a black capsule…I’ve been experimenting with a site called Polyvore. I’m so excited as now I’ll be able to group items into outfits like magazine layouts with the links to purchase! This layout was created especially to show a capsule. As you can see, some pieces would even work with the brown capsule. Two Capsules: So many possibilities and less space taken. What do you think? Will this work for you?

Grads and Dads Pt 2

We’ve covered grads and now it’s on to DADS! I hope that you all had a lovely weekend celebrating the dads in your life.

Weeks after starting my blog, I received a note from a local radio station DJ asking if I would write about men’s fashion. I have to admit that I wasn’t sure where to start. It was about that same time that Oprah did men’s makeovers and the term “Dad Jeans” became almost as popular as “Mom Jeans.” Enjoy the before/after photos from that show. Note the significant differences in fit!

The networking groups I attend to promote my styling business are often dominated by men in the insurance and mortgage business. They ask… “Do you provide the same type of service for men?” I feel so comfortable helping women, yet somewhat intimidated by the thought of styling men. In reality, men are probably easier to work with–less issues and hangups than all of us women. A client recently asked me if I would help with her husband’s closet. Always up for a challenge I told her YES!

First, I consulted the founder of Holobi where I received my training. She plans to add stylist training for men in the next year. I’m excited. I think there is a market for it and hope to add that in 2011.

Next, I consulted my husband who was raised in a very “fashion forward” family. In college he worked in the men’s suit department at Dillard’s. In fact, when we met, he was probably more fashion conscious than I was. He often found clothing for me and had a different eye which encouraged me to step outside my box. He has not kept up every retail trend, but I believe it’s fair to say that he still knows how to dress! I have suggested that we tag team to help men who want a closet makeover and personal shopping. He’s still thinking on that one. In the mean time, he gets his fashion fix by buying used men’s shoes at Goodwill (some hardly worn) and selling them on E-bay. His selection varies week to week so check it out here. His seller name is Northwest Shoes where you’ll find him when searching under the E-bay community.

Now it’s time for all of you to weigh in. Does your husband need a closet makeover? Does he hate to shop and hasn’t been in a store in years? Down the road, I’m considering offering a fashion makeover giveaway for men. What do you think?

With my husband and I collaborating, we came up with these tips. We only scratched the surface trying to highlight the priorities. If the man in your life is breaking any rules, go easy and start with one thing at a time.

1. It must fit!! No differences here between men & women. Just as women hide behind baggy clothes, men do the same thing. Fit is crucial especially for jeans. It can take off pounds and years! By the same token, pleats add pounds. You probably know this, but pleated khaki Dockers need to go!

2. Do not be afraid of color and pattern. Many men stick with the drab dull colors because they are afraid color is feminine. Step out of the box gradually adding a splash of color or pattern.

3. Observe and Copy! This rule also applies to men and women. I say it all the time. When you see someone well dressed, take note of what you like and make it your own.

4. Take care of your clothes and shoes. When you think of what image you want to present there is nothing that makes a stronger negative statement than clothes that are pilled, stained or worn. My husband is a stickler for shoe polishing. Men’s shoes are expensive and can last for years if they are taken care of. Worn, unpolished shoes can ruin a look very quickly.

5. Your clothes must fit your lifestyle. Evaluate your clothing needs based on the typical week. I tend to ignore the generic lists: “Ten Pieces Every Wardrobe Needs” because they are too general and do not take individual jobs and lifestyles into consideration.

Well, it’s only a start. I’ll be curious to know your opinions on men’s fashion and if you would like more info on the subject!

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