Back to School Fashion

It’s back to school for many students today. Some parts of the country have been back at it for a couple of weeks. Still others will start after Labor Day. In honor of a new school year, I decided to put aside my typical topics and give you a taste of some teenage fashion! Whether your kids are at this age, out of the house, or just toddlers, I thought it would be fun to show what kids today are wearing!

All photos by Barbara Hill Photography. A big thanks to Barb for working with me. I will be featuring more of her work in an upcoming post/giveaway.

Middle School can be a turning point for many kids when it comes to fashion. For some,(girls especially) it certainly starts in elementary school. I don’t recall clothes ever being an issue for my boys until about the 6th grade. Shopping for them was relatively easy. But then middle school rolled around. Our favorite inexpensive stores were no longer “cool”. Places such as Amerian Eagle, Abercrombie and Hollister entered the vocabulary. I soon learned to shop the sales at these stores. I grew accustomed to the loud music and limited conversation when shopping. (well not really!)

I asked Emily, a middle school student, to show some of her favorite “Back to School” looks. Skinny jeans are from Abercrombie Kids, shirt from Target and sweatshirt from Hollister. Don’t you love those purple Converse shoes? (Nordstrom)

Next I wanted to show some trends from High School. My son Collin asked some of his friends to help us. Barbara Hill brought along two girls she had previously photographed. It was fun to see the 6 of them(from high schools on the opposite side of town) work together showing off their different styles. I loved seeing each of their personalities come through in what they chose to wear.

Of course a photo shoot would not be complete without the jumping pose! Now that they are in High School, they told me the stores they want to go to are different than what they liked in Middle School with just a little overlap. Favorites are Pac Sun and Zumiez. They like Jeans/shorts from American Eagle and also Abercrombie. The girls liked Forever 21, Nordstrom, Wet Seal. A new hit for a few of the kids was Rue 21 which offered very affordable choices. I’m also putting a vote in for the Nordstrom Rack because we always manage to find things there.

Emma’s dress is from Rue 21, yellow bag by Nino Bossi from Accentuate and the boots shown above are from her MOM’s closet!

Mariah is wearing jeans (jeggings) from American Eagle. Her jacket is from Wet Seal and shirt from Charlotte Russe. Just like Emma, those great boots are borrowed from her mom. Orange handbag is from Accentuate.

Kennady chose jeans from Abercrombie. Green LODIS bag is from Accentuate. Her top and cardigan as well as her Toms are from Nordstrom. Not familiar with these shoes? Click on the link. With each pair purchased, one pair is given to a child in need.

Are boys less particular about what they wear? I’ve learned that some care a whole lot, others not so much! Above Collin, Luke and Russel are all set for their sophomore year. Collin is wearing jeans from AE, and a VERY inexpensive V-neck tee from Rue 21. Luke and Russel are both in combinations from Pac Sun, Rue 21 and Zuimez.

Emma’s sweater vest, burn out tee and owl necklace are from Rue 21.

Mariah’s dress is from Forever 21 and denim jacket is from Nordstrom.

Kennady is wearing a strapless floral dress by Tulle from Accentuate. I can even picture it with a denim jacket and boots or even leggings.

 

Collin’s lightweight sweatshirt is from Rue 21 and shorts are from American Eagle

Luke’s “military” style jacket: Rue 21

Russel is wearing a Pac Sun shirt and a hat by Hurley. In the photo below you’ll see the guys all have different styles of Vans. Yes, I’m told that that length of socks or no socks at all is the way to go. As for me, I’m just saying–that look takes a little getting used to!

Let the classes begin!

A big thank you to my models. Have a great year!

What did you think? Was it fun to see what kids this age are wearing?

Do You Prefer Patterns or Solids?

Our winners for the Silpada Giveaway are: Comment #2: Cynthia D. Comment #3: Kristi G. Winners were chosen by random.org. Congratulations to you both. Kristi Thomas will be contacting you soon. Thanks for reading.

Does your closet favor solids or patterns? If you are ”anti-pattern” could it be that when you think of prints this is what comes to mind?

For some of you, it really just boils down to personal preference. But often women admire pattern on others, yet they have completely taken pattern out of their life because they feel it adds pounds. Some aren’t sure how to choose a pattern appropriate to their taste, or they worry it will become dated quickly. Still others fear they are “too old” to wear pattern. 

I have outfits that are completely solid. I admire a monochromatic look. I also have a lot of patterns in my closet.

I hope that after reading this post you will start looking at patterns in a different way.

1. They add variety to your closet. Prints and patterns allow  for versatility when combined with solids. You have way more combination possibilities not to mention it adds interest! When I go to a client’s house to work in her closet making new combinations, my job is easier when there are patterns!

2. Small patterns can camouflage the middle. The right style top with pattern hides a lot of sins.

3. Still not sure? Add a jacket or cardigan in a solid color so just a touch of the pattern is showing

4. Start with a very subtle pattern like a super small print or very narrow stripe.

5. Just NOT you? Stick with your solids but add some jewelry, a belt or scarf (even a solid in a contrasting color will add some interest)

Look at all the possibilities for combinations in the tops below. All these tops are great examples of pieces that mix and match with 2-3 basic neutral colors. Brown, black or gray for skirts/pants. You could add sweaters/jackets in brighter accent colors OR stay neutral. Small colorful patterns as shown below bring the eye up–to your face! Patterns allow you to mix in several of your favorite colors along with a color that perhaps isn’t your best in a solid shade. And, I’ll be honest, when you are wearing the wrong color solid it can be drab, boring, cause you to look tired and even older.

 Yes, patterns on plus size models. They look fabulous!

 

More patterns. One a little more abstract and bold, the other very subtle. And the asymmetrical hemlines are becoming a huge favorite of mine!

Let’s weigh in here. I’d love to hear from you. Does your closet favor patterns, solids or a nice mix?

(All photos from Nordstrom.com)

Fall 2010: What’s Hot?

It’s hard to think about fall clothes. In the Northwest we’ve had summer for approximately 6 weeks. I’m hopeful our summer lasts through September. However, if you went to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale or have been in a shopping mall, you know the stores are full of fall clothes. The ads in the paper are all about school supplies. In reality, when August hits, fall is right around the corner.

Here is what I’m seeing for Fall 2010:

1. Leather and Fur. I don’t know if leather ever left, but it does come and go and this year you’ll see lots of pleather that looks really good. Imagine washable leather! I have yet to find my perfect leather jacket at a reasonable price. But it is on the list. The motorcycle style jacket is big this season.  

(Leather from Macy’s, Fur from Nordstrom)

2. Boots have been all the rage for a number of seasons. The last couple of years boots have become even more popular (jeans tucked in) We need more boots and there are more choices. Now you will see a little of everything: Over the knee, mid calf, booties and more booties. I like the look of a bootie with the skinny jean or legging. I have one pair and am looking for another. These are different than the ankle boot we’ve seen in past years. All the detail is meant to be shown. They also look great with skirts/tights. The third picture below is what I refer to as a “shootie”. Love them!  (All shoes from Macy’s)

3. Jeans and leggings.

I’m excited to see options. I still love my boot cut with some outfits, but am moving to more straight cut, and have added a modified skinny and jegging to my collection. The latter options look great with the long sweaters, jackets and tunics. And it doesn’t appear that leggings are going anywhere anytime soon. You have the leggings that are worn as pants and the leggings that are worn mid calf under a dress (see below). Check Leggings, Jeggings and Skinnies for a quick review.

4. Romantic is in!

All from White House Black Market

5. Jewelry trends: layers of pearls and mixed metals. You will see silver, gold and copper. I’ll be covering this in detail next week. But look at all the pearls from Nordstrom and White House Black Market!

What new trend are you drawn to?

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.

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?

A Mother’s Day Tribute

Congratulations to our Here We Go Again winners: Comment #2: Sandi has a GC waiting at the Broadway Location. Comment #8: Eva, GC at John’s Landing locale. Have fun!

Happy Mother’s Day to all moms! I hope you enjoy a day of pampering. My boys are growing up and sometimes I feel like they do not need me quite as much anymore. However, there are times when mom still saves the day. (reminders, schedules, money!)  Being a mom is a tough but rewarding job. Whether your children are young or all grown up, give yourself credit for a job well done and enjoy this day!

This post is a tribute to my own mother. My mom passed away suddenly when I was in college. I was 20. Sadly, this was several years before I met my husband and had a family. I always wished they had the opportunity to know her. My husband has heard so many family stories that one time he said to me,”That sounds like something your mom would say!”  There is remarkable power in a story since obviously he had never met her. And you know what–he was right on. Can any of you relate to sounding/acting like your mother?

When I started my new business and blog, my oldest sister made an interesting comment, “Mom would have been proud of you.” I had to laugh a little because we both knew that my mom was not a “fashion plate” in any way. She was actually kind of a tomboy. Mom liked to be outside and played fast-pitch softball. In fact she played well into her thirties when she had three small children. My parents owned a dairy farm and started out in 1941. Life was tough, money was tight and they worked very hard. Fashion was not a focus in her life. She was fortunate to have a dress to wear to church. My siblings and I had a frugal upbringing. Of course, being the youngest of five, I was spoiled. (so I’m told) Still, it was never easy convincing my mom to buy me clothes. She always thought I had enough, and I always wanted more! My sister and I are pretty sure that our love for fashion is a direct result of not having a large selection of clothes when we were young. If you have been reading for several months, you’ve seen I have an eye for nice things. However, I do have a very practical side when it comes to prices, amount of clothing needed, making WISE choices and now consignment. All of this stems back to how I was brought up.

Since I started working one/one with women, thoughts of my own mother have come up frequently. My mom did not have a lot of confidence with dressing . She didn’t really have a knack of putting things together for herself, yet loved to pick out suits & ties for my dad. I was born when she was 42. Can you imagine? Today this is common, but in that day and age-not so much! When I hit my forties, I realized how difficult that must have been. I always remember my mom saying if others asked, “she keeps us young!” When it came to dressing though, she lost her shape. Losing weight after 40 just is not easy. There were not personal trainers, diet books or designs that camouflaged your middle. I now can completely relate to her struggles. 

Shortly before she died, my mom and I went on a shopping trip with my aunt and a friend. Living in a small town in the Northwest corner of Washington, the stores were not plentiful. A trip to Seattle was a treat. Keep in mind: My mom HATED shopping. A day in a mall was NOT her idea of a good time. But something happened. She had fun. She found clothes (even boots) that looked great. Looking back and knowing what I know now, I believe that a few flattering outfits helped raise her confidence to a new level.

Today I meet women just like my mom who may not have the confidence in dressing, hate shopping and putting things together. A common pattern among women is to take attention away from themselves and focus on their families. They give time and spend money on someone else, but rarely on themselves. I encourage you to change that pattern and take time for yourself.

Although we did not share the love of fashion, my mom was a role model in so many other ways that helped me become who I am today. For that I’m grateful. I love you Mom!

I wanted to share some photos of my mom over the years. I love looking at old photos and thought you would enjoy the nostalgia AND styles.

 

 Mom at age 42 with me!

There are few photos of the two of us in later years. Below is a photo at my parent’s 40th anniversary the year before she died. I’m wearing her wedding dress and pearls. (For a short time in the Forties and Fifties, some women wore suits or dresses that were not the typical wedding white.) The photos provide such great memories. Oh to fit in that dress again!

Style Potpourri

Today your blog post is a potpourri. I had a list of a few random topics. Individually they are not enough for one article; thus the perfect potpourri post. There are several links to follow. Just use your arrow key to navigate through the links and article. Congratulations to Cindy, Comment # 7 who won a FREE color analysis!

If you read my post about cardigans, here is another spin from Snapshot Magazine. I hope you enjoy my article and the entire magazine in what sadly is the last issue.

If you had a question about how to wear leggings and skinny jeans in the spring, this visual should help. The boots change to flats or heels, and the top changes from a sweater/coat to a boyfriend cardigan or longer tunic top.(not shown) Of course if you’re not concerned about covering a particular area of your body, then the sky is the limit on what you pair with them.

Shoes: Ok, you might think I’m obsessed with shoes since I write about them frequently. No doubt I love my shoes. I get many questions about shoes from readers and clients. I want to keep you updated on what I’ve found. Since my last posts on spring shoes, I’ve had a chance to try a few more you may like. I received questions about ankle straps after this shoe photo. I agree with everything I’ve read: Ankle straps can create an illusion which causes your leg to look shorter. I didn’t feel this would happen with a neutral color. Red or black high ankle straps on my short legs-definitely an issue. That’s my two cents; I have not tried this shoe yet.

 View #1. LOVED these because they are the perfect neutral shoe that extends your leg line and will go with a variety of colors. This is one of the Sofft styles that does not come in Wide. They have to go back–I so wanted these to work and hope they might for you! View #2: Pikolinos. Not only does the soft leather “give” for my wide foot, the shoe is well cushioned and the rubber sole allows for shock absorption. Notice in the description that they contain materials which allow your foot to breathe– so important especially in the summer months! It’s worth the extra price you pay. These are a winner and I found them locally at www.amenityshoes.com. I will be featuring this store soon and giving away Gift Certificates. View #3 Onex. I own a similar style and am going on my 4th summer to wear it. You may find another style in this brand. Perfect casual and dress options at a great price point.

A couple of months ago I wrote about jewelry organization. Since then I’ve found myself collecting a few longer necklaces. They just were not fitting on my new system. I had to get creative with space. Rather than pound more nails in the wall, I decided to use the space on the back of my free standing mirror. By the way, if your closet space does not allow a mirror, I strongly recommend something like this. It was a Christmas gift a couple of years ago and I love it! I purchased the hooks at Bed, Bath and Beyond. Mine is a little different than what is shown. You may also find something similar at other stores in the organization section.

Coming Next: Gigi Hill Give Away

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!