Stella & Dot Giveaway

I had my first opportunity to see Stella & Dot jewelry last fall. My friend Sherra clued me in about this “up and coming” company a few months earlier. When I looked at the website, I wasn’t sure it was my style. I love jewelry. I enjoy checking out new things so when another friend Leigh Anne had her party, I was game!

Stella and Dot consultant Nancy Conway traveled from Fresno, California to show us the jewelry. Immediately I could see the photos didn’t do it justice. I loved it and had a very hard time deciding what to get! I was in major debate. Stella & Dot does a great job of mixing it up. Their jewelry is unique with gold and silver equally represented. Their designers also do a beautiful job of adding many different elements (pearls, chains, crystals and ribbons) Some designs are inspired by vintage pieces found at flea markets, others are trendy & very contemporary. The combinations are fabulous (as is the packaging)! Thank you Nancy, Heather and Leigh Anne for modeling!

 

Celebrities have been featured wearing pieces in almost every magazine from In Style to Lucky. Stella and Dot is known for “statement pieces”. My definition of a statement piece is a necklace that does just that—makes a statement! When you are wearing a statement piece, the eye is drawn up to that necklace. Statement piece necklaces are usually bold in style or color, are a bit “chunky” with lots of detail. This is one of my favorite tactics for steering the eye away from a flaw.

Don’t see anything you love quite yet? I’d say Stella & Dot’s biggest selling point is choice. If you like jewelry that is more dainty or not quite so bold–they have that too. I believe it’s all about choice when it comes to style, size and metal. Stella & Dot offers it all! Prices range from $20-200 with half the catalog being under $50

In January I convinced my friend Mollie to consider selling Stella & Dot. She was so impressed with every aspect of the company. She couldn’t stop talking about it. To seal the deal, I told her to give Sherra a call. Mollie signed under Nancy and already has her own recruit. I’m pretty sure she is happy she listened to Sherra & I.

It’s so much fun to help other women get started. Now for the Giveaway!

1. For Entry #1: Check out Mollie’s site, find your favorite piece and tell me what you like about it in your comment and you’ll be entered for a $50 Gift Certificate.

2. Entry #2: Check out my Facebook page to see even MORE photos of favorites. “Like” my page  and make a second comment here on the blog that you are a fan of Style by Karen and you’ll be entered again. (I love it when you comment on my FB page too, but the extra entry is for the comment here.)

3. Entry #3: Send my blog to a friend or invite them to be a fan on FB and make a comment about who you invited.

It’s a little more work this time, but a chance for triple entries!

Here is the best part. Style by Karen local readers are invited to a Stella & Dot party at my house on Sunday, February 27th from 2-4 pm. It’s a “Pre-Oscar” Party to watch the red carpet arrivals and see great jewelry. I will be doing a short presentation on how to combine the S & D jewelry together or with pieces you already own.“Glam it up” with Stella and Dot. Come wearing lots of sparkle and shine and of course your bling.You’ll go home with ideas how to layer your pieces and new ways to wear your strands of pearls.

You know the one “lonely” thing about writing a blog is the fact that I do not even know most of my readers! I would love to meet you. CONTACT me for more details and address.

Remember up to THREE comments for THREE entries.

If you live in another party of the country and want to see the jewelry in person, Nancy may be willing to travel so contact her HERE.

 CONTEST ENDS, Monday, February 14 @ 9 PM PST. You’ll get a chance to see what I have purchased on Tuesday when I announce the giveaway. We have an extra fun surprise for you so SUBSCRIBE to my blog so you don’t miss a thing!

Scarf Tying VideoTutorial

Here you go– a few simple ways to work with your scarves. A big thanks to my co-worker Rhonda for filming on her I-phone before we opened the store. If you have a difficult time hearing or seeing, give me your feedback and I can re-do at another time. Technology is a beautiful thing, but it takes time to perfect! Videos are such an easy way to explain a concept. Look for more in the future.

This your last day to enter in the $100 Giveaway Contest. Remember to send to friends and check out Facebook too. I’ve enjoyed working on the blog all week. I have really appreciated your feedback and all your wonderful comments. Blogging is interesting at times because you really don’t know if many are out there reading. Thanks for letting me know you’re there and that you appreciate the info!

If you can’t see the video, click the direct link: Scarf Tying Tutorial

Brighten up your Day with GRAY!

We only have two more days for entries in the $100 giveaway. Get on your e-mail and invite friends to subscribe. Get on Facebook and make comments. Post a comment on the blog. Remember it’s a $50 gift certificate to a store of your choice and $50 of consultation time.

As promised on Monday, here is a follow up to COLOR ME GRAY. Honestly, when I started wearing my gray pieces I wondered if I had overdone it! Once you go through color analysis training, it causes you to look at at color in a very different way. I knew gray was more flattering, totally IN but I was looking for a very certain “brick” red to “warm up the gray”. It’s been hard to find. Most things have a lot of pink tones. Not that this is bad–but not as favorable to my coloring.

By the way, it’s been interesting to hear many of you talk about black vs. gray. I enjoyed all your comments and suggestions. Certainly gray is a muted shade of black and for many, much softer around the face. In addition to wanting to enhance your hair, skin and eyes, I believe there is a direct correlation between age and wearing black. Many women come into the store where I work and say their closet is full of black. They want something else. They feel as they age, it’s not as flattering. Black is pretty hard to eliminate when it’s everywhere. I still wear it but I’m very aware of what I wear WITH IT!

Back to gray…Because it is muted and not as sharp as black, sometimes it can be a little harder to make it pop. By showing my own clothes, I was trying to emphasize that making an outfit better can take time. Some outfits come together immediately. Others evolve.

Below you will see the Before/After #1. I kept the jewelry neutral and added the color only one place. General rule of thumb: Add color in 1-3 places.The handbag color is perfect; patent leather croc gives the shine and texture needed. Other options for this outfit: BIG RING. The gray pearls are long under the ruffles but you could skip the necklace completely. The earrings are my new favorites. They are perfect when you have a lot of detail in a blouse and can’t wear a large necklace. Instead of a bag, you could add more color with shoes or a bracelet. Any jewelry with a gray pearl combo is a personal favorite and I like the long silver chains from Silpada.

BLOUSE: CABI outlet–Fall Season 2008, VEST: Here We Go Again Consignment, JEANS: Gap, ACCESSORIES: Accentuate Boutique  This outfit was under $100 before the handbag. I enjoy combining things from many different sources and price points.

PHOTO #1 I want to call attention to the belt currently available from CABI. Although it may look pearl, they are actually silver “halves”. I LOVE this belt because it is unique and it brightens up black or gray. Half of the belt is black leather so depending on how you adjust it, you’ll have more black or silver. I actually like this combination. I will leave as is except I threw the necklace on for the photo and there are better options for this. I would also add a touch of color in a different way than I did above. So instead of the handbag, maybe this time it’s the shoes and earrings. PHOTO #2 It’s the same BLACK WRAP: Sloan Boutique, SKIRT: Nordstrom, RED SWEATER: Ann Taylor Loft, NECKLACE: White House Black Market. It’s hard to see the 3 strands in photo. WALLET CLUTCH: Lodis from Accentuate or Nordstrom, BELT: Nordstrom Rack, SHOES: Sofft (skirt and shoes from this season)

PHOTO #1 The black/gray top has a unique texture that actually goes fine with black or gray. Although it’s hiding under the coat, I’m wearing the Cabi silver belt which I thought at the time brightened it. Obviously not enough. My jewelry is gray pearls and it’s much too delicate. I need more of a statement piece either in necklace or earrings. PHOTO #2 I added a sweater from Ann Taylor Loft in “Beet”. Cabi belt. Scarf and silver BRIGHTON accessories from Accentuate. You will see that scarf later on in the video tutorial.

Notice the 3 touches of silver (necklace, earrings and belt) The combo of silver/crystals catch the light and brighten the dark colors.

My scarf is crooked, the necklace is off to the side and doesn’t show up. Above, the wrap collar covered my necklace which was the focal point… So goes it in the life of an “at home” stylist who depends on male family members who don’t pay attention to detail to take photographs. I hope you were able to get some great ideas. I became a bit obsessed with gray outfits this week. I have enough for a whole other post. Coming later I’ll have combinations using lime green(yes lime!) teal, blue and purple. In addition to the usual accessories of shoes, handbags and jewelry, I will show gloves, a brooch, umbrella–many great options! Let me know what you think.

Dressing the Part: The Outdoor Sports Mom

Dressing to stay warm and dry for outdoor spectator sports can be a challenge, especially when there is no covered stadium! I laugh now about the days of watching baseball in the spring. One particular game comes to mind. It was windy, pouring down rain and in the low 40s. The wind caught my umbrella and turned it inside out. I reached for my Starbucks on the bleacher in front of me, only to have the wind whisk it away. It tumbled down and spilled on the cement below. It was not a good day at the ball field. And while that was extreme, there were similar scenarios.

Looking put together for outdoor sports in a colder/rainy climate is tough. Remember: lightweight NOT bulky layers. Here are some things to try. Even if you are not a sports mom, I hope you will find a helpful tip or two.

1. Start your layering with silk underwear from Eddie Bauer. I have recommended this to clients who get cold easily for every day wear. Lightweight, natural fabrics close to your skin is key.

2. Depending on the temperature, you can start with a long sleeved tee, lightweight sweater or both. If it has a little wool, this will help add warmth, yet shouldn’t be too itchy with the silk underneath. Vary your layers depending on temperature. You might just need a tank or cami under the tee/sweater. All the options below are from Ann Taylor Loft. I loved what I found! Their sale right now is: Buy ONE and get the 2nd 50% off!

Photo #1 is the perfect lightweight sweater to layer. Photo #2 is a fitted cardigan(you will love the back) with pockets. It has a bit of wool. You may not have to put on a coat for quite a while if you layer underneath and add a warm scarf and gloves. Photo #3 is a basic v-neck cable also great for layering.

3. Next you want to find that in between jacket that can serve many purposes. I love the look of a North Face Jacket, but there are many options for less money. Remember to look for a great fit–especially in the back. When the online photos don’t show all the details, read the written descriptions carefully. This NorthFace Denali Jacket has princess seams–a great feature that will show your shape if you are a size 2 or 22. The curved seams will bring in the sides and the small of your back. When you have a good fit in the small of your back, you automatically look thinner. No more boxy coats and bulky sweatshirts! These jackets are from Nordstrom. Many are marked down as the Half Yearly started today.

4. A great source for waterproof longer and warmer outerwear is Land’s End and Eddie Bauer.  I also love vests and find they can be pretty warm with layer underneath. I’ve only highlighted a few; there are pages of stylish possibilities

All from Nordstrom. Sanctuary, NorthFace and Guess

5. Boots!

Oh the fun boots that are out now! There are many options for rain. The orginal suede Uggs are great for dryer climates or cement stadiums and they will keep your feet toasty. This model is not so great for wet grass as they are not waterproof. However, Uggs does have some waterproof options as well.

Grab a waterproof bag from Gigi Hill to keep all your stuff. Then find a fun large umbrella, scarf and gloves and you should be set!

What about indoor sports? Coming next time along with a few ways to organize your closet just for your sports mom clothes!

Treats Giveaway

Congratulations to BeautiControl winner, Ann who was Comment #8. Don’t forget to check out Jenni’s website or give her a call.

You are lucky readers this week–Back to Back Giveaways! A couple of years ago I met Eva Johnson and was quite intrigued with her business card which highlighted an accessory business she ran out of her home. I knew I had to check this out. Located on the West side of Vancouver, it is an easy commute for those of you in the Portland area. Jewelry, Scarves, Handbags and Sunglasses Galore!

Eva works full time as an elementary school secretary. Her creative/decorative side comes through after hours with TREATS, a unique accessory store she runs out of her home on 6014 Cherry St. in Vancouver. Eva partnered with her sister-in-law when she opened who showed her the ropes when it came to those NYC buying trips. Now Eva is on her own and does a fabulous job of choosing great accessories for her store.

TREATS is housed in an expanded, remodeled garage complete with its own separate entrance. Two things will strike you: LOW price point. GREAT Displays. It’s fun to shop here!

Eva is giving away a TREATS Gift Certificate worth $25! I’m telling you–this will go a long way at her store! Post a comment and you will be automatically entered. Contest ends Wednesday 9 AM PST. Now go to her Facebook page, become a fan, set up an appointment or visit during shopping hours! TREATS is also a part of the 7th St Courtyard in Vancouver. Call Eva for details at 600-8281.

Quick Tip: Jewelry Storage

As I continue to encourage jewelry as one of the best ways to accessorize, the thought may come to mind… “Where in the world am I going to store it?” I have shown some photos in the past of solutions I’ve created for myself. The main thing to remember is storing the jewelry so you can SEE it and it is convenient. I go to many homes/closets where the jewelry is nowhere in sight. It’s stuffed into a jewelry box in a drawer and is forgotten about. Again, the answer is very simple:

When you see it, you will wear it!

Many women have space issues in their closets. However, even if you just have a small area of wall space, I think the ideas below may work for you. I usually try to find a small area in the closet where you can put a piece of pegboard. It’s a great way to display jewelry. The photo below is an example of what a client created after my suggestion.

The following photos show the same idea with cork board, straight pins and a belt holder for the heavier necklaces.

 Have you found a great way to store your jewlery? Is it out in the open so you can see it and combine with your outfits?

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.

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. Contact Kristi at kris_thomas@comast.net 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.

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.  

KikaPaprika Scarf Giveaway

I love finding new companies to promote on my blog! This Giveaway introduces an organic clothing company out of California: kikaPaprika.Meet Ruth Cekola and learn a little about this awesome company and opportunity!

I am a native Michigander who was raised in the small town of Saline, just outside Ann Arbor. When I graduated high school, I moved to Kalamazoo to attend Western Michigan University. A mutual friend introduced me to a fabulous man who became my husband seven years later. Tony grew up in a large family in Kalamazoo and my family is still nearby, so we have stayed in the area. We have a daughter, Victoria, who is a huge blessing in our lives. We enjoy spending time with family, friends and one of my favorite hobbies is scrapbooking.

 I am a naturally organized person, so I started my own organizing business a few years ago while I was working as a full time Chiropractic Assistant. My organizational skills are now being utilized with my husband’s home based business as an office manager/accountant. Working with Tony afforded me the opportunity to join kikaPaprika as a premier launch consultant in August 2008.

 I am passionate about our company and mission of helping women dress in comfort AND style! It has been so rewarding to see how kikaPaprika has changed the way women view themselves by dressing in styles that are flattering and feel amazingly soft. Our MADE IN THE USA company is unique in many ways: We bring the shopping experience into the comfort of your own home, we only use organic fabrics and eco-friendly dyes and we offer custom coloring of your favorite garments. I enjoy talking to women in all states about bringing kikaPaprika to their area, especially right now because we are accepting applications for our fall season.

And now, on to the Giveaway! If you read Scarves of Summer I know you’ll agree that there really isn’t a time you can’t use a scarf! Ruth is giving away a beautiful, soft coral scarf from kikaPaprika. I chose coral because it coordinates with so many colors. Sometimes women are fearful of corals because they see it as orange. I believe it can brighten up your whole appearance very quickly. The organic cotton fabric is “oh so soft” you may just want to wrap it around your neck this summer despite the heat! The lightweight cotton however is not going to add a lot of bulk making it the perfect summer scarf!

This scarf sells for $25 and comes in a variety of colors. 100% of proceeds help women in shelters near their LA warehouse. Kika Cares! They gave back to the community by donating the sales of a different LTD item each season. You may want to grab one while you can. AND you’ll be helping someone less fortunate.

View #1:  Coral is a great complement to Navy Blue. It’s paired with a very casual jacket that can be worn with jeans or sweat pants and a patterned tank. The solid scarf pulls the coral from the top and makes a typical casual outfit look a little more fun!

View #2 I LOVE a coral and turquoise combo. Above the scarf is just wrapped around the ruffled cap-sleeve tee to show as a “wrap” if you wanted to cover bare arms in the summer when you go from warm to very cool places. The turquoise capris hanging behind combined with white would be a fine combo. Add the coral and it becomes a different outfit. You could also put a coral piece of jewelry with this outfit. Trust me, coral and turquoise are a hot combination for summer and you’re sure to get compliments.

 View #3 The strapless small print dress is just begging for the Kika coral scarf!

 View #4 You really don’t need a scarf with this print and detail. Sometimes when women are not used to wearing prints, a solid “tones” it down. You really need scarves with prints AND solids in your closet. This view sets up #5where I showed the same top with a jacket. Also note the length of the Kika scarf. It can be wrapped around your neck twice. I twisted and wrapped to get this “scrunchy” look. This jacket and top are from my own closet (Cabi outlet and Anthropologie sale rack) While there is enough going on in the outfit, I’d throw in the scarf if I was out & about. NW wind and rain can come up out of nowhere and without a scarf, I’d be freezing.

Here are few more ideas for you… Thanks Ruth for sharing.

Would you like to win? Post a comment and you will automatically be entered.

Contest ends Wednesday, June 2: 9 AM PST.

See more about kikaPaprika on Ruth’s site Once you contact Ruth, she will connect you to her Facebook page where you will see more photos which makes long distance shopping a breeze. If you are a Michigan reader, give Ruth a call!

(Other clothing & accessories featured above are from Accentuate,a unique boutique located at 500 NE 4th Ave in Camas, WA They will be featured in a upcoming post)

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