The truth of the matter is, I’ve been having a few technical difficulties. I’ve come to the realization that my laptop computer is on it’s last leg. It is a “dinosaur” by tech wizard standards. You know–the larger heavy type that weighs several pounds? Purchased in 2006, it has served me well over the years. However, it takes me 3 times longer to write a post with a lot of freezing up and re-booting along the way. Adding photos–another problem. I definitely see an I-pad with keyboard in my future.

Then to top things off, my trusty, speedy desk top computer had a nasty virus despite my anti-virus software. We’re back on track now–hopefully!

I received some great feedback from the last accessories post. I’m so glad it was a helpful system. Just remember–it is a GUIDELINE, not your accessories Bible. Make it work for you, but do not become obsessed with the points. I had some good questions about LARGE EARRINGS & GLASSES. It is very difficult for me to make a call on that one without seeing the whole outfit put together. It’s a judgement call. In fact, I probably take more time deciding on the balance of accessories than what clothes I’m going to wear. I certainly think at times you can combine large earrings if you wear glasses. Balance!

I also was reminded that hair accessories should have been included. So true. THANK YOU readers!

On to the topic for today: LINEN

Working retail, every single day I hear: “Oh, I don’t want linen. I hate to iron and it gets too wrinkled!”

What most women don’t realize is that the new look for many linen casual pieces is now slightly wrinkled! Say goodbye to the perfectly pressed linen of years past. I recall a linen sheath dress I bought just ten years ago for a wedding. It was supposed to be perfectly pressed. However, just a few minutes of sitting and that look was gone! Linen was a frustrating fabric to wear.

Here are some examples from Nordstrom.com:

There are still many dress linen pieces that may require the pressed look. Many are linen blends which helps decrease the wrinkles!

What do you think? Will you give the new casual linen a try?

My friend Missy, who is also a stylist and blogger, recently wrote this post about some “rules” for accessories. After a little research, I could not find the origin of this “16 Point Rule”, although I remember talking to a Mary Kay consultant about it at one time. She referred to it when I explained my business. This was taught in a training she had attended years ago. I get the impression it’s been around for a while.

There are some rules that are made to be broken. While I think this idea is a guideline, I would like to put my own spin on it. First read Missy’s post,then see what you think of my revisions. Some of you might like the original version better because you need all the points you can get and so be it!

I’ve adjusted the point system to stay in tune with current trends. The trend in jewelry is all about statement pieces and layering. I wholeheartedly believe in a combination of classic and trendy. I think my new version is the best of both worlds. My revisions are in parentheses in BOLD.

• One point for each of your shoes (ONE point for a PAIR of shoes. Who wears one shoe?)
• One point if you have a pretty pedicure and it is showing because of open-toe shoes
• One point if you have on fashionable tights or leggings (pantyhose do NOT count–and you do not get count these as again as a garment)
• One point for each garment you have on.  If your garment has more than two colors, give yourself an additional point. For example, if you have on black jeans, a black jacket, and a multicolored blouse, you get 4 points. (Any pattern is as an additional point regardless of color)
• One point if you are wearing a belt.
• One point for each of your rings (your wedding ring set counts as one point) (Layered rings count as ONE)
• One point for any watch, bracelet or bangle. (2-3 narrow layered bracelets count as 1 wide bracelet – ONE point instead of one point per bracelet)
• One point for a necklace. If your necklace has a double or triple strand or it is very large, give yourself two points. (Statement piece=2 points or 1 point per necklace)
• One point for each of your earrings, that you can see. (Again ONE point for a PAIR of Visible earrings )
• One point if you are wearing glasses.
• One point if you have makeup on.
• One point if you’ve had a compliment on your hair in the last two weeks.
• One point for nice, taken care of nails (no chipped polish please).
• One point for your handbag if you will be carrying it 100% of the time, if not, zero points.
• One point for a shawl, hat, scarf, wrap or other add on accessory item.

0 points = you’d be naked
12 points or under = girlfriend, you need some accessories
12-14 points = you are almost there but not quite. Where can you add something? Maybe a bracelet, a scarf or another ring?
14-16 points = well done
Over 16 points = too much sister, time to take some things off.

PHOTO #1 If I were to follow the “16 Point Accessory Rule” I would be at 19 Points. My System: 14 Points

It’s hard to see everything in this photo. I am wearing large visible hoops, but in a neutral color. I have a statement piece layered with another necklace–again pretty subdued in color. I think this outfit works and the amount of accessories is just right.

PHOTO #2 16 Point Accessory Rule: 19 Points. My system: 15 points

It would be crazy to think you should add up points each time you get ready. I would use this system ONLY WHEN IN DOUBT. Soon it will start making sense. 1. If you have a bunch of long layered necklaces, skip the belt. If you love scarves–then wear less jewelry.

2. If you have a statement piece or layered necklaces, wear small earrings or skip them altogether. If the bracelets are your focal point, play down the necklace. Remember it’s all about balance with accessories as well as balancing your color and texture in every outfit.

So I’ll be curious to see what you think of the 16 Point Accessories Rule and my revised system. How did you score? Do you need to add, take away pieces or did you come out just right? I would love to hear.

Here are the bags I think you need in your wardrobe:

1. Cross body  I never would have put that in the list several years ago. I thought they were totally impractical. I thought I always had to have a bag large enough to fit everything at all times. However, last year I found a great cross-body that was a good size and fit the basics. I realized how convenient it is especially when shopping. Cross body bags are also perfect when you have small children to carry and when traveling. I think you need to be somewhat particular on the size. If you want to carry your phone, a set of keys and a credit card you’ll get by with a pretty small bag. If you want to carry a little more, you’ll find larger sizes too.

2. Mid-Size Handbag  This is your “everything” bag. Many of you probably choose to go with this size in various styles and colors and consider that to be your handbag wardrobe.

3. Clutch or small bag  It can be dressy or casual, but this just holds the basics for an an evening (or afternoon) out.

If you don’t like the clutch style, there are many choices in small bags with a strap or chain.

4. Tote This bag comes in a huge variety of styles and sizes. You can use a bag in this category for the beach or business. Inside you store anything from a change of clothes to an I-pad.

What do you think? Do you have bags in these categories? Tell me about your favorite bag. I’d love to hear. All bags are from nordstrom.com. Remember to scroll over the photo for the style name for easy searching.

There are many sources. I’ve found some great bags on E-bay over the years. I also check TJ Maxx occasionally and they have great deals.

Rain or shine, I usually do the Closet Switch the first of April. It’s about this time that I am just plain tired of my fall/winter clothes. In a previous post, I’ve shown how to wear it now and wear it later. Here is what I wore for Easter. I know it’s been months since you’ve seen a photo of me!

Although it was a fairly nice day, it was still cool and I wasn’t ready to bare my arms quite yet with this sleeveless top. Here is a closeup of the pieces I’m wearing.

Halogen pencil skirt $59 from Nordstrom. I forgot to take a photo without my jacket but I thought sure this skirt would be online. It is NOT! Nordstrom.com just shows the solid colors which I love as well. But really–where is the photo of the print? Check a Nordstrom store close to you because it is a winner. You can wear it all spring and summer with periwinkle, turquoise and lime green. Then put it with black in the fall. I paired it with navy blue. I will definitely show it again. Beware–runs a bit snug!

Swoon Tee and Sandy Trench from CABI

Next is my jewelry. Statement piece from Stella & Dot. When I saw this I knew I had to have it because of all the various colors I could pull out. And I didn’t even know about the skirt at that point! This piece has so much color that I felt it was a nice contrast with the light colored jacket.

And I have shown these before, but the fishnet hose really help when you don’t want to bare your legs quite yet. They are tightly woven and don’t really look like fishnets. They take the edge off white legs.

Lightweight jackets and sweaters, scarves, and brighter colors are a great way to transition into spring.

Over at You Look Fab,  Angie wrote a great post with some excellent tips to help you embrace spring even if it is dull and gray outside. Check it out!

If you live in a warmer climate I hope you are enjoying spring. What do you think will be your favorite “go to” outfit this spring? Are you partial to a certain color? Let’s hear it in the comment section!

 Neutral choices are the perfect complement to all the bright colors  this spring. You might need a couple of pairs in various heel heights.

All photos are from Nordstrom.com. Be sure and scroll over the photo to get the brand and style name to make your search easier.

What do you think? Will you be adding more neutral heels or wedges this spring?

I have tried many of these brands. I first found Fidji 3 years ago. The heel is lower, but I have to add a cushioned Dr. Scholl’s insert. Helle Comfort is still one of the best on my foot. Pikolinos is a favorite along with Eric Micahel. Earthies, Naya, and Everybody are options I’d like to try.

Comfort does not come without a price. If these are out of price range, you will need to watch sales. All of these brands DO come on sale. Find your favorite shoe websites and put them in your favorites so you can check back frequently. What do you think? What catches your eye?

Spring weather can be streaky in any state. I thought it would be a good idea to do a post on layering brighter colors. It is easy to grow tired of our dark colors about now. It’s time to change it up. Yet sometimes it can be difficult to invest in pieces you can’t wear until July. You need to come up with ways you can wear it now and wear it later.

Below you will see a pair of neutral linen pants, jacket, a merino wool v-neck, striped tee and closed-toe shoe. You could even add a scarf for more warmth on a cool spring day. The bright sweater and bag help give it a spring feel. As the weather warms up, you shed the jacket, sweater and shoes and add a summer sandal and more jewelry for color.

J Crew knit sweater
$73 - jcrew.com

Madewell striped tee
$90 - madewell.com

Topshop blazer
$130 - topshop.com

Wallis linen pants
$42 - wallisfashion.com

Seychelles gold high heels
$100 - modcloth.com

Nine West shopping tote
$100 - amazon.com

Stella & Dot chandelier earrings
$49 - stelladot.com

Madewell straw fedora
$58 - madewell.com

 

 

Wear it Later by stylebykaren featuring antique gold jewelry

Madewell stripe t shirt
$90 - madewell.com

Wallis wide leg linen pants
$42 - wallisfashion.com

Aerosoles wedge shoes
$56 - meijer.com

Nine West leopard tote bag
$100 - amazon.com

Amrita Singh antique gold jewelry
$120 - amritasingh.com

Roberta Chiarella crystal hoop earrings
$68 - maxandchloe.com

Betsey Johnson heart sunglasses
$52 - zappos.com

Flower belt
$9.99 - stylesforless.com

 

If you’re like me, my feet can swell a bit and almost “stick” in a closed shoe without a sock. They don’t seem to breathe. I don’t think my feet necessarily sweat a great deal, but it just feels better to wear something like this.

The first view shows a very low cut sock with the toes cut out. This will allow you to wear a peep toe with a “sock”. The other view shows something that covers the toes. The only thing I can say for this is DON’T LET THE SOCK SHOW if you have a flat that is cut low on the sides. I’ve seen this and it’s not a good look. These are available in hosiery sections of most stores.

Now on to some heels. This year the wedges are high and low. (remember to scroll over the photo for the brand/style name to do your search)

The last one makes me laugh a little bit. There is no way that most of us could wear that, BUT, those type of wedges are out there in full force. I do think a wedge with a bit of a platform is an easier heel for most women to wear.

So what do you think? Will you be adding a fun flat and a wedge this spring?

I want to thank all of you who took the time to give me some feedback. I really appreciate your input. You are still welcome to contact me anytime if you have an idea you would like me to cover.

I’ve been doing a little research, gathering some new ideas for Giveaways, and now it’s on to shoes for spring. It may be a bit before we can wear spring/summer shoes in the Northwest, but if you live in a warm climate or traveling this spring, this should give you some ideas!

 Last year I wrote about wedges and you will see some of those same styles in the stores this year.

Let me just say that there are is a LOT of choice this season. First off– the flats category with nearly 700 choices at Nordstrom. Unless it’s a torrential downpour, you should be able to wear many of these styles right now.

Let me narrow it down for you a little. Here are a few of my favorites determined by price point, comfort and style. If you scroll over the photo, you will see the brand name and style name. This allows you to take that info and search your favorite shoe site. For example, choice #1 is: me too kaden. The brand name is ME TOO and the style name is KADEN. You can use Google to do price comparisons on this style or just place that info in the search box of the site you are looking at. Comparison shopping made easy for you!

 What to wear with flats? As you can see below, just about everything.

I can only recommend that you do your research. Be in the know before you shop. Thanks to Deborah Kirkendall you have the Top 10 ingredients to look for in your products. This will help when you shop whether it be the department store, drugstore or through a consultant. Be prepared with your list and start reading labels. You might also want to re-read my interview with Deborah.

Remember, the best thing you can do for yourself and your skin is to get professional advice. Make an appointment for a facial TODAY. A professional can help determine the best product and treatments for your skin. If you are local, be sure and take advantage of Deb’s discount for Style by Karen readers. 10% off all services.

1. Vitamin C is one of the workhorse ingredients in skin care. It is backed up by a considerable amount of clinical research that demonstrates its benefits: An increase in collagen synthesis, antioxidant activity, boosts the effectiveness of Vitamin E– important in protecting our cell’s membranes and thickens the skin.

2. Vitamin E is a highly effective antioxidant. It works to protect the membranes of cells, lipoproteins, and many other bodily structures.

3. Retinoids are derivatives of Vitamin A. Current forms include: retinol, retinyl palmitate, tretinoin, tazarotene. The first two can be purchased over the counter; the final two are prescribed by a physician.  Benefits include: increased cell turnover, repair of cellular structures, shrinkage of oil glands and increases production of new collagen.

4.  Oligopeptide-34, a new ingredient that works to reduce pigmentation by decreasing melanin synthesis within on a cellular level for brighter, more even skin is a new entry in the battle against age spots. 

5. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) which are derived from milk and fruit sugars work by exfoliating damaged surface skin cells.  This allows newer skin to grow in its place.  It improves the appearance of wrinkles, blotchy pigmentation and rough skin.

 6. Salicylic Acid  Like AHAs, salicylic acid is an exfoliating agent for the outermost layer of the skin.  It’s lipid characteristic allows salicylic acid to penetrate the oil in pores, helping to unclog and cleanse them of debris. It also possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. These actions make it an ideal choice for individuals with oily skin battling with blackheads and acne.

7. Sunscreen Filters  We can rave about the latest anti-aging skin care ingredients, but most skin care specialists would agree that without protection from UV rays they’d all be a big waste of time. There is no other facet of skin care that comes close to the importance of UV protection since sun exposure is responsible for approximately 90% of adverse skin conditions commonly associated with aging.

8. Green Tea The benefits of green tea may be attributed to their constituent poly phenols, a subclass of flavonoids, found in many plants. Green tea possesses powerful antioxidant activity, reduces inflammation, and can reduce the harmful effects of sun exposure.

9. Peptides are protein fragments that have been shown to have beneficial effect to the skin. Two peptides in particular deserve further attention – copper peptides and palmitoyl pentapeptide 3 (also called Matrixyl).  Peptides have been show to help regulate the exchange and growth rates of skin layer cells, limit potentially harmful oxidation, and create an anti-inflammatory environment.

10. Soy’s benefits may be attributed to their component isoflavones, which have antioxidant properties that help prevent free-radical damage to DNA.  They also help to decrease effects associated with skin aging, which includes a decrease in thickness, dryness and reduction in skin elasticity.

There you go. A big thanks to Deb for sharing her knowledge with us. She and I worked hard to keep the wording as simple as possible.

Let me know if you have any questions and I will direct them to Deborah for the correct answers or better yet schedule your appointment.