Can the clothing you wear make you feel more or less confident? Does looking good make you feel good? I believe the answer to both of these questions is yes.

 

Dressing a certain way can boost your attitude and performance. Whether you are leading an important work meeting or spending time out on the golf course, the clothing you choose does matter. When you dress in your “best uniforms” you know you look good and therefore you feel empowered and exude a confidence in the way you carry yourself throughout the day.

 

(Best uniforms are those outfits in your wardrobe that if no one was looking you would wear again and again because you feel your best in them.)

 

We have all had those moments when an unexpected social situation sends you running for cover. The thought that stops you in your tracks is, “why did I wear this today?” Ugh! My advice is to only have your “best looks” hanging in your closet. If it doesn’t make you feel confident, out it goes. So whatever you are holding onto that doesn’t make you feel proud to wear; it’s time to send it back out into the world. It could quite possibly become someone else’s best uniform!

 

I think there is a reason we shop and have the desire to have new clothing. It’s because putting on the right outfit makes you feel like you can do anything!

 

Dawnn Karen is the youngest professor at The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York. She is a self-described “fashion psychologist”. She defines fashion psychology as, “the study of how color, image and fashion affects human behavior”. Karen is not the first to explore this blending of fashion and psychology. The University of Delaware offers a course called “Social Psychological Aspects of Clothing”, and The London College of Fashion added an undergraduate major in the psychology of fashion last year.

 

In my experience of dressing clients over the years, I have come to realize that some things just don’t change. Clients want to fit into the social norms of dressing and to feel like themselves. My job is to incorporate the current styles with the client’s needs depending on their tolerance for color, trends, social status, and personality. This is where I think the psychology comes in. We are all individuals and carry our own biases whether we heard a negative comment from a mother, father, friend, co-worker or fashion expert. It doesn’t matter who said “you can’t wear that color”, it can stick with us.

 

I think all of this psychology about what we wear and how it affects us does matter. Colors you wear affect how you feel and how others feel about you. Check these insights on the psychology of color, do you have similar feelings when it applies to you?

 

Black is the power color if you need to exude confidence and control. The negative side of wearing black is you can seem too serious or unapproachable.

 

Blue is a color of trust. Most people like blue tones and feel comfortable wearing shades from navy to teal. But, if the tone is too pale it can come across as weak.

 

Red is a color of intensity and it can trigger emotions. If worn during a large group presentation where you need to be the focus, it can be a great color to be the center of attention. At other times its best in small doses if you are in a corporate environment.

 

Wearing high contrast clothing is a sign that you are very comfortable with yourself. Low contrast or wearing muted colors, depending on the situation, can make you appear to be more approachable.

 

I have a vivid memory of my own relating to color from early on in my career. While working as a wardrobe consultant, I was interviewing my potential new client proudly in my chartreuse green linen suit and the client (confidently, in her black suit) says “I hate that color green, no one should wear that hideous color, and I hope you are not thinking of putting that color on me!” Of course I convinced her that not every color or style looks good on everyone and that I knew the chartreuse would definitely be the wrong color for her skin tone, and the rest is history.

 

The bottom line is to wear what makes you feel good in any situation. I’m here to help you find your own personal “best outfits” that are just right for you.

 

 

 

 

 

Sustainable clothing: What is it, and should we care? Can I make an impact?

 

I ask myself this as I scroll through my e-mails from Athleta and Patagonia. What these companies do that’s different, is that they get us consumers to think about our relationship with clothing, and the contrast between fast fashion and purchasing with sustainability in mind; Which at times, seems like an oxymoron.

 

Sustainable clothing refers to fabrics derived from eco-friendly resources, such as sustainably grown fiber crops or recycled materials. It also refers to how these fabrics are made.

 

Sustainable fashion is a “trend” that encourages environmental awareness around the production of clothing to lessen those impacts on the environment. This includes the use of pesticides in growing cotton, the dyes used for various colors, water and waste treatment, and sometimes even packaging. More and more companies are making a commitment to offering sustainable fabrics within their lines of clothing.

 

The average US citizen throws away 70 pounds of clothing each year. The production of new textiles does have an environmental cost. Reusing and recycling can be part of the answer. Many closets have usable, but no longer wanted clothing.  This unwanted apparel could be put back into circulation again by donating, consigning, passing to a friend, or to “Dress for Success”, an organization that provides professional attire for women getting into the workforce. https://twincities.dressforsuccess.org/

These are ways to help with the social sustainability question of what to do with items that are no longer useful to you, and to dispose of them in an ethical way.

 

Patagonia will repair any worn clothing, to keep you in your well-loved jackets and vests longer. The “worn wear’” team can fix about 40 garments a day. Last year they had a truck that toured the country hitting college campuses and engaging students in learning how to fix their own clothing.

 

Fair trade guarantees that the products produced in certain factories take into consideration the well-being of the employees along with the environmental conditions. Companies that commit to these fair trade standards pay a premium to the workers and the workers themselves get to decide how the extra monies are spent. Every worker gets a vote. Some decide to build daycare centers within the factories, set-up scholarship funds or evenly distribute profits to the workers themselves.

 

There are 40 million workers globally that work in the garment industry. It’s a very small percentage of garment producers that are certified fair trade factories. But companies promoting more environmentally, socially, and ethically conscious production and consumption are starting to get attention. One of the companies that are working on changing that is Patagonia. In 2014 Patagonia had only 11 certified fair trade styles to offer its customers, and in 2017 they had over 300 certified fair trade products.

 

Some would say that sustainability and fashion are not compatible considering the fashion industry is known for its churning out “mountains” of the latest trends. The great thing is we all get to make our own decisions. So, take a little time to treasure what you already own and pass on what no longer serves you!

 

To answer my own question; yes, we can be more mindful about how we approach fashion and sustainability. I think awareness is the first step, and change is good even for fashionistas.

 

On that note – check out these cute vegan handbags by Matt & Nat the company name stands for MAT(t)erial  + NATure each lining is made from recycled plastic bags.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vegan bag from Melie Bianco!

 

 

 

Nothing welcomes winter and the holiday season like a cozy sweater. This winter it’s all about the sweater!

 

 

 

Its the one item that never goes out of style. A sweater in a layered look is essential for our cold climate. A colorful chenille says you are in for a cozy night at home, while a rich berry wool says its holiday party time!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wear your “ugly holiday sweater to work” days are more exciting if you put a little thought into it. Of  course, you can always head to Ragstock. But if you want to up your game, Nordstrom has just the look to impress your co-workers at this year’s party.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Men – pay attention; this is for you too! There is nothing like a “sharp dressed man” in a sweater (Wait, isn’t that a ZZ Top song?!?). What I’m trying to say, is that a man dressed in a sleek sweater worn alone or with a dress shirt popped under it, looks fabulous!

 

 

 

St. Croix men’s sweaters are handcrafted in the USA. If you are going to grab one sweater and wear it for years, this is the one to get.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The embellished sleeve adds a fresh look to a black sweater. I love black, as it goes with everything… even dark navy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shopping is easy with such a wide variety of styles and price points out there to choose from.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Have you noticed the ribbed turtleneck is back too? I know, heavy sigh… Here’s the thing, the old ribbed turtleneck sweaters of yesterday were constructed of a heavy cotton fabric that was stiff, especially after a few washings. The natural non-synthetic fabrics of today are mostly made of pima cottons, rayon, and modal (which is made from bamboo). These sweaters claim top spot with their superior softness.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wrapping yourself in a beautiful cashmere poncho isn’t a bad choice with a cool cropped wool pant.

 

Let’s be realistic; it gets darn cold in Minnesota in the winter! Go buy yourself a couple nice sweaters to keep warm and enjoy the season! Happy Holidays!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With the first signs of fall here you may be thinking, “Oh no, I have nothing to wear!” We all tend to cling to our black & grey staples that have been hanging around in our closets for the last few seasons. This fall dressing is a mix of rich colors patterns and fabrics.

 

Top Fall Trends:

 

Velvet          

This year it’s all about velvet; from purses and boots, to dresses and double breasted blazers. Velvet has always been a very traditional fabric, mostly worn in black. But, this season velvet is a day-to-evening staple, modernized this fall by its rich bold colors, and soft, pink hues. So, no excuses, this is the year for velvet!

 

 

 

 

Pattern Boots and Shoes 

If you make one purchase for fall, it should be a pattern bootie or pump. Picking suede for sure says its fall, and you will be right on trend.

 

 

 

 –CLICK ON PICTURES FOR LINKS TO PRODUCTS —

 

 

 

 

Bell Sleeve 

 

Bell sleeves come in many shapes. It can be as subtle or dramatic as you want it to be. Put a bell sleeve sweater or blouse over a fitted pant, and no jacket needed.

 

 

 

 

 

Plaid 

 

Something about plaid screams, “it’s fall!” Add a choker neck detail to make the look more feminine.

 

 

 

 

Plaid pairs with jeans of course, and to dress it up even more, throw on a cashmere cape.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Seasonless Stripes

If you own a stripe blouse, keep wearing it into the season. A good crisp blouse always looks cool.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The “It” Color is Cherry Red

The one color that seems to be everywhere this fall is every shade of red. Wearing red isn’t complicated, so don’t be afraid to add this pop of color into your wardrobe.

 

 

 

Racing Stripe Jeans & High Low Hems 

If you’re tired of your straight skinny’s, the new twists on jeans for the fall are a wide leg crop, the high-low frayed hem, or the racing stripe side seam.

 

 

 

 

 

 

With so many new and exciting fall trends, this is the year to put a little more style back in your fall wardrobe. Whether we add a velvet piece, a patterned shoe, or a frayed leg jean, let’s get shopping together!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Summer party season has arrived. Is your “dress wardrobe” ready?

 

The Floral Dress

Floral dresses are here for at least another season, and paying attention to the size of the floral pattern matters.  If you have a smaller frame and are under 5’ 5”, stick with a pattern no larger than the size of your fist.  For those of you with a bit more height, go for it!  A large statement flower is for you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dark neutral is the perfect backdrop to pulling off any floral on the body. The contrast color against the skin grounds the pattern, so as to not overpower your body shape.

 

 

Remember, the cut and proportion are the most important factors to looking your best. Sometimes a print can get overwhelming even if you are very tall.  If a flower print is just too sweet, think about a dress style that incorporates other just as worthy trends, like the bell sleeve, choker neck, or halter.

 

 

The Lace Dress

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We all thought that the lace trend had run its course, but think again. Lace dresses in every color are still hot.  The updated style for this season includes a flutter sleeve or the new midi length.  By the way, the midi dress is perfect length (not too long and not too short) to wear with a square heel, ankle strap sandal.

 

Going Bold

 

 

 

Being dramatic means you pick one aspect of the dress that draws attention for fashion sake; and it need not necessarily be body flattering.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you pick a solid color it can be a big A-line cut, with a scalloped hem and sleeves.  Or a fitted dress with an extra neck or sleeve detail.

 

The Kimono

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tired of the standard shawl or shrug to slip over your shoulders on a chilly night or in the air conditioning?  Add a silk kimono for a new look that is right on trend. I love these!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Little Black Dress

Not much needs to be said for the little black dress… everyone needs one!

 

 

 

 

 

The Perfect Leg

Achieve a smooth sleek leg that is pantyhose free with Sally Hansen. The cream in the tube has a bit more coverage without the smell of a self-tanner. The spray has a little lighter coverage with a pretty shimmer. Bare legs with confidence.   https://www.sallyhansen.com/skin-body/airbrush-legs

 

News

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale pre-sale starts July 13^th for cardholders book your appointment with me now.  Sale opens to the general public on July 21^st.

 

 

 

 –CLICK ON PICTURES FOR LINKS TO PRODUCTS —