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.

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!

Grads and Dads Part 1

Congratulations to our Amenity Shoes winner, Comment #2 Renee. Thanks for all your comments. I can tell from your interest that I may be spending a little more time on shoes in upcoming posts. I’ve had to take a 2 week hiatus from Friday Fab Finds on Facebook due to my schedule. This week I had technical difficulties. Shoe photos are coming on FB.

In the month of June we get used to the retailers referring to Grads and Dads. While I am challenged at working my typical fashion advice into this post, I felt that the topic deserved some space since this year I have a Grad at my house! My oldest son Ethan graduated from high school last week. You may recall from a previous post, last fall I was encouraged to co-chair the All-night Senior Grad Party. I stayed up until 5:30 AM, threw a party for family/friends 36 hours later AND I’ve lived to tell about it. Honestly, it never would have happened without the help of my dear husband. It was a team effort. I am also grateful to family and friends who helped me the day of the party. Needless to say I was exhausted by Sunday, but oh the fun we had!

Since we’ve been having an unusually wet spring, it wasn’t about to let up on June 10th. It rained the WHOLE DAY! Friends advised me to do pictures at home rather than try to gather at the stadium as it would be sheer chaos. Good plan. I was also grateful for my covered front porch as you can see the wet pavement in the background.

At one point we finally just had to move inside for the group photo.

Then it was off to school to oversee the bag check for the party. Love this picture of excited Seniors.

It was COLD at the stadium so what I wore for photos was not appropriate. Instead I’ve switched to my wool coat and a scarf! My mother-in-law and sister-in-law are from Texas and needed to adjust quickly from nearly 100 degrees to 50!

By the time they seniors had to line up on the track the sun was peeking through. It was a perfect evening without rain.

On Saturday we had a wonderful outdoor party and it was 80 degrees!

And now for at least ONE fashion tip. The short sleeved cardigan is Bobeau from Nordstrom. At $39 it is reasonably priced– super comfortable and flattering. They appear to have different colors in the stores. I wore it with a lime green tank. White capris are WORN from a local boutique. The shoes from Sofft almost passed the test–still undecided if they are keepers. Here is another version  that may work for you. My apologies for the lack of details in the photo. No time for posed photos of the hostess!

It’s June: Graduations, Weddings and Travel

Congratulations to our Kika scarf winner: Comment #10, Amy B. Thanks everyone for commenting. I’ve been asked how I choose the winners. I have a very scientific method: I ask an impartial person who has not read the comments or names to pick a number. If a number chosen has been a recent winner, I would choose again. So far that has not happened. Until my readership and comments increase, your chances for winning are great so keep the comments coming.

It is June! You would not know it in the great Northwest. We are used to rain, but the month of May has almost been unbearable. If you sign up to live here, you just know that rain must be tolerated for certain months so we can be known as the Evergreen state. We also have grown accustomed to “living with it” because the months ahead make living here worthwhile. From mid-June through October, it is one of the best places in the country. 75- 80 degrees, no humidity, rivers, mountains and the ocean an hour away. We pay a price and this year that price is big. Comments about boats and arks are all over Facebook, the weather forecasters have never seen anything like it and everywhere you go people are complaining about the rain! The 10-day forecast looks promising; we can only hope.

June is known for Graduations, Weddings and Travel. I will cover these topics with a fashion perspective in the weeks ahead. First up: Graduation. My oldest son is graduating from high school next week. It’s an exciting and busy time at our house. We have family coming from out of town. I’m the co-chair of the all night party(yes I must stay up until 5 am) and we are hosting an outdoor party two days later for family and friends.

I worked fashion into a Mother’s Day post. That was relatively easy. Fashion tips for a graduation ceremony in an outdoor stadium in unseasonably cool weather may be more of a challenge. I will do my best and post pictures of course!

 A week later I have a wedding to attend and will take note of what women are wearing this year.

 I’ve been helping several clients pack for trips and will share that as well. And I haven’t forgotten: Swimsuits! I’m doing the research and will hopefully have the post ready soon.

And in between all of this valuable info, I have a Giveaway from a local shoe store and possibly several others which are in the works. I’ll work hard to keep on schedule and bring you great tips. Let me know if you have a request.  Happy June!

The Scarves of Summer

It might seem a little odd to have a post about scarves as we end the month of May. Well in my “neck of the woods” we can wear scarves nearly year round. Even if you live in an extremely warm climate, I believe you may have a different perspective on scarves after reading this. The scarves you wear in Spring/Summer are much different than in winter months. You also may find that you’ll wear them differently. Wear them away from your neck and you’ll still stay cool, but add variety to an outfit.

FABRIC is key. The stores are full of lightweight fabrics that just add color, not warmth. My favorite sources are Target, Kohl’s, Nordstrom Rack and small boutiques. Below are some inexpensive choices from www.kohls.com 

Scarves can also take the chill off if you are in a heavily air conditioned room (like a movie theatre or restaurant) If you live in a hot & humid part of the country there can be a drastic temperature change from outside to inside. A scarf can be wrapped loosely over your shoulders and be just enough. I often take one in my purse to a movie theatre in the heat of the summer.

Here is a way to add color and interest to an outfit without adding bulk and warmth. I love how scarves do the elongation trick as well! You simply tie each end of the scarf in a knot and let it hang. SO easy!

I often choose scarves with many different colors which increases the versatility. Here is one of my favorites shown with black and brown. Picture it with green or teal for summer. It is 100% silk and is much lighter than it looks. I also plan to wear it with an all black sleeveless outfit. Just draping it over the arms takes the chill off AND can cover the upper arm that many women consider to be a “problem” area.

This is another favorite. It is a really light fabric and has a fun edge. Look for scarves in boutiques and you’ll find some unique pieces at a reasonable price. It’s difficult to see the dark brown, but wearing it with that color gives it a different look. It elongates and when paired with on open jacket it can drape over the middle thus providing another camouflage trick. This adds no warmth-just color!

Spring is cool and can be windy in the Northwest. You may recall I have given up turtlenecks. Scarves fill that void. Unbelievably, this photo was taken on Easter Sunday. The coat was a FIND from the Nordstrom Rack, Skirt was on sale at Anthropologie and the scarf is from JC Penney.

Scarves make a fashion statement. I love what scarves add to outfits. If you struggle to wear scarves you’ve purchased, try the simple way shown above. This fall I’ll do a scarf tying video so you can learn ways to work with scarves that are easy and you’ll remember.

Coming Next: Scarf Giveaway!

Creating Illusions Part 2

Statistics show only 1% of women are completely satisfied with their bodies. We never seem to be happy with what we have. I believe that is especially true when it comes to bust size. Those who don’t have it, want more. Those who are amply blessed would like a little less. Then there are the women who complain about their hips and rear. These two ”flaws” really do work together. The last post dealt with the middle, this one will take on bust and hips.

The main message I want to convey in this series: Embrace your assets and learn to create illusions that hide what you don’t love. I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not happy with my weight and haven’t been for a number of years. Yet I’ve learned to fool many by wearing the right styles. No one would guess what I weigh, and I look taller than I am. If I mention that I need to lose weight, people look at me like I’m crazy. We all have a certain standard in our minds, and we long to be at that ideal weight. I urge you to also be realistic when it comes to that perfect number. Weighing what I weighed in high school or college is not where I’m going  to be and I’m Ok with that. Weight loss and dieting is a very extensive topic to deal with in a blog. I may attempt it later on. For now we’ll focus on hiding our flaws correctly.

I feel I can relate to women’s struggles to hide flaws. It’s one of the main reasons I love what I do. I’m on a mission to teach women the tricks to dress their shape instead of hiding behind unflattering styles. In a previous post on turtlenecks, I thoroughly explained body types. Be sure and do your measurements at www.holobi.com if you missed this. Women who have larger hips often have smaller shoulders and bust. We want to bring the eye up and create volume on top which will visually balance the bottom. This season’s styles are perfect. This post touched on t-shirt styles to create volume on top. Since then I’ve even found styles that have chiffon layers right on the chest. No need to worry about a small bust this season!

If you want to add volume on top and minimize from the waist down, choose styles with lots of detail(ruffles and embellishments) on top and something a little longer to cover the hips. The tunic styles that are all over this spring work well. Here are a couple of ideas–they also hide the middle. Photos are from www.nordstrom.com and I searched: Tunics. Note the asymmetrical styles. This design is flattering for petites who don’t want to drown in length.

 

If you want to minimize the bust, middle or hips, your best choice is a “cascading” cardigan.  What about minimizing a large bust and hiding the middle?

Again, things that drape beautifully are the key. Caridigans, tunics in the right fabrics will do the trick. Note how the photo of the black top is on a plus sized model, but it still shows her curves.

Large bust, thick middle and smaller hips? V-necks, long necklaces and A-line skirts with a little volume.

Still confused? Take advantage of my 30 minute FREE phone consultation. We can “shop” over the phone by both being on the computer and searching item numbers. (My sister and I have shopped long distance for years.)

Soon your eye will be trained to look for what is best for your body type. Check out my Fab Finds on Facebook this Friday and I’ll have more photos of flattering tunics.

Creating Illusions Part 1

Most women I know are trying to hide a flaw or two. Even if they have few flaws, they are their own worst critics and are quick to point out every tiny inconsistency. This is Part 1 of a three part series on creating illusions. The problem areas? Chest, Middle and Hips. This series could also be named ”How to Look 10 lbs thinner!” 

Choosing the right styles create illusions to highlight one area and downplay another which takes off lbs. It is healthier to lose the weight; the right clothes can perform a lot of tricks in the mean time. Rather than hide behind big and baggy, try this.

 I’ve become an expert at hiding my middle with or without shape wear. This post will focus how to do it without shape wear because so many women have aversions to “sucking it all in” with a support garment. I’ll address shape wear at another time!

1. I know low-rise jeans are hip/cool, mid to higher rise is much more appropriate when you carry weight in the middle.

2.  Wear skirts and dresses. Skirts have a higher rise. The right style dress can hide many sins. I find skirts to be extremely comfortable and flattering.

3. A Camisole adds an extra layer that can cover a slight muffin top. I hear women “freak out” when suddenly there is a little “extra” by their waistbands. Honestly it can be smoothed so easily with one layer and a flattering top.

4. Prints and texture hide more than solid colors. Avoid large prints especially if you are petite. I try to couple a print with a solid cardigan or jacket.

5. This brings me to my next tip: Layering! Not so easy in the summer… but there are many lightweight fabrics in sweaters and jackets. Click the link to review cardigans and how to wear them.

6. Choose fabrics that do not cling. Don’t judge a top on the hanger. SOME, looser tops show off your shape because they are designed using the right fabric. There are designs that show the curve of your waist, yet can hide the flaws. Wear looser tops with fitted jacket if possible.

7. Empire Waists. Women cringe when I show these because it reminds them of a maternity top. It is one of the biggest misconceptions of this style. If the garment is well made and has a structured band or elastic underneath the bust, it will drape beautifully over the middle. If it “poofs” out and adds volume at the wrong place–leave on the rack!

8. Ruching, Gathers, layers, knots, V-necks, wraps. (see photos)

9. I’ve said it before and I’ll be saying it again. The RIGHT fitting bra does wonders in lifting your assets to the right place and creating a definition between the bust and middle.

10. Take the eye away from the middle with scarves, handbags or jewelry!

Photos from Nordstrom, Anthropologie and White House Black Market  Each link will take you directly to tops. If these styles do not suit you, study the characteristics so you know what to look for when shopping. Designers truly get it. Some are better than others-choose carefully. You will find even more photos this Friday on my Style by Karen Facebook page. Check out my first installment of Fabulous, Flattering Finds which will be a set of photos each Friday!

Color: The Eyes Have It!

 COLOR! One way to give your wardrobe some new life is to add colors you do not typically wear. Most of us are drawn to certain colors because they make us feel good, and we’re pretty sure we look great in them. Many women have VERY strong ideas about colors they will and will NOT wear. Many times our natural instincts are correct, other times way off base. The right colors are important for your overall look. The wrong colors can cause you to look tired, cast shadows on your skin, wash you out or even overpower you. This video from the women who write Fabulous after 40 reinforces some of the same philosophy I have on color.

Years ago color analysis focused on putting women in one of 4 categories: Winter, Summer Spring and Fall. Perhaps you were classified in one of these categories OR you heard others going around saying…”I’m a spring!” We were draped with large pieces of fabric trying to determine our best shades and given small swatches to take shopping. For years I thought I was wearing the correct colors for my hair and skin tones. Imagine my surprise when during color analysis training I learned I was NOT a Winter who could wear bold, dramatic, and cool colors. I do not favor the cool side of the color wheel at all! Color analysis has changed in that we do not “box” people into one of four categories. Instead we give a personal palette based on the tones in your hair, skin and eyes. Most women will favor one side of the color wheel (warm or cool) but can wear some shades from both.  

It’s all in the eyes!

 Take a close look at your eyes in the mirror. This is fascinating. Typically the main color–the iris is the one seen by others. Next, look at the rim going around the iris. It is probably a darker version, or it can be a completely different color. The photos below show some very interesting eye colors. You will be amazed at the mix of colors found in eyes! Even in blue eyes you will find flecks of brown, amber, gold and taupe. One minute blue eyes can look blue, the next time green. Brown eyes often have green, gold, and a variety of shades of brown.

Up until 3 years ago I wore  brown contacts which caused my eyes to look very dark. Even as a young child before contacts, my eyes seem darker in photos. I swear they changed, but I cannot find any research to document why eye color could change!  As you can see below, there are many warm colors in my eyes and lots of of gold. The rim going around my eyes is green(this is hard to see in the photo). Notice how the colors I’m wearing in the photo complement my hair, skin and eyes rather than competing or “fighting” my natural coloring. The colors brighten my face, yet do not overpower. The colors in the scarf bring out some of the same gold and green in my eyes.

 

 More on color coming next week in Part 2. Take a close-up look at your eyes. Were you suprised at what you saw?

Cardigans:The Long and Short of It

Cardigans–long and short are a wardrobe staple for me! Simply said, I LOVE cardigans. Solids, patterns, embellished… I have to really be careful not to buy too many. Cardigans are very IN this season and can be found in every store. They are lightweight, easy to pair with a sleeveless top, perfect for packing vs. a jacket, and they provide a little warmth needed in cooler climates or heavily air conditioned rooms. The cardigan can add that extra layer hiding many of the same “inconsistencies” around the middle that a jacket hides. I wear the light weight ones as a top (with a cami underneath). Next to the jacket–it is my “2nd best friend”! It’s time to get rid of those misconceptions and images of the cardigans from days past. I’m certain the photos will help you see cardigans in a new way!

 How to wear a cardigan:

1. Close two buttons under the bust. An open top and bottom creates a natural curve showing off your shape. Pair it with one of the embellished tops shown in my last post and you have a great look. Believe me, women petite to plus sized can wear a cardigan this way. I’ve seen it first hand with clients in the store dressing room. They are always amazed what two buttons can do!

2. Pair with a wide or skinny belt

3. Wear open. It’s nice to have a more fitted or belted top underneath if you choose this version.

Nordstrom had the best variety from long, short, embellished to draping. Anthropologie has the most unique styles. Cardigans are everywhere…The Gap, Target, Kohl’s.

 First–the shorter, embellished styles.

Note: you can close the top two buttons if you have a fuller chest, or leave open–still shows some shape. The models in the green (above) orange (below) would have shown more of their shape had a few more buttons been opened.

The cascading, draping styles below hide a lot of flaws. Be sure to choose something that still has some shape or is fitted in the back. I have ”sold” view #1 to 3 clients. Very flattering. Too blousy and it will add pounds!

The longer styles cover hips.

The boyfriend cardigan is all over this spring.

Some unique styles from Anthropologie. Note the front/back view of  the gray. I own this one!

Solid, patterns, floral, short, long, belted, buttoned or with long necklaces… Here are some ways to wear them! Cardigans are perfect with a skirt, pants or jeans. Longer styles can look great with leggings and skinny or straight cut jeans.

Do you have cardigans you are not wearing? If you have sweater sets that were popular in years past, get rid of the matching “shell” and find a new way to wear your cardigan!

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