Oh, you know I’m joking. After more than a year of virtual meetings, you might be thinking about getting your wardrobe prepped for fall.

Clients I have talked to say the dress code has changed in recent months, and a less formal look is needed. I say this new look should be refined and comfortable. Make it look easy and relaxed with a bit of structure somewhere in the outfit.

When you are meeting in person your personality and style can be easily detected. When you are behind a computer screen, things get magnified and not always in the best light, so purchase a good desktop ring light. If you have a window in the room that you are working in, be sure the light is coming from in front of your computer, shining natural light on you. You don’t want the light coming from behind you.

Virtual calls require a mostly solid look. Wearing a stripe can be too distracting, as is a large bold print. A little contrast is good, but keep it simple. Just as if you were in person, wear what best represents you. Your clothing should not detract from what you are saying.

When you have meetings in front of a computer all day it can be draining. The good news is you only have to dress half of your body. When considering what to wear, think about it as if it were a headshot photo shoot.  The color you wear and accessories do make a difference. Putting a little thought into what you wear shows that you care. It can be a balancing act between a relaxed, yet professional outfit.

For women, try wearing denim on top. This denim dress is a great choice. The modified puff sleeve is on trend and looks sharp for work or going out.

A pop of color and some fun texture in this little top make it perfect for a Zoom meeting.

This navy knit has just the right amount of ribbing to make it interesting.

Buying the basics is not always as exciting as buying statement pieces – a solid collared shirt is timeless and seasonless.

A simple look with this vest will transition into fall.

For the men a 1/4 zip seems to be the new norm for replacing a shirt and tie. If a dress shirt feels a bit too formal in these more casual times, try a performance dress shirt, it will provide the comfort without being too casual. Vests are making a comeback for both men and women. Throw one over any long sleeve tee or dress shirt to elevate the whole look.

Creating a professional look that shows off your individual style can be fun. Just look at this knit blazer; it’s all about comfort. A solid tee shirt would also be great under this jacket. How easy is that?

If you really must wear a hoodie, wear a bold, not muted color.

Wearing a shirt under the hoodie makes a statement – no tie needed.

A refined sweater jacket is a classy, yet casual look.

Many of us are dusting off things and quickly finding out that some of the outfits you thought you liked, feel somehow, not right? A bit too formal?  Too loose? Too tight? “Looking good and feeling comfortable” is what clients are looking for. Dressing more casually can mean many things, depending on your work environment. That said, dressing for success will never go out of style.

Fashion is fun, and sometimes a risk-taking adventure. Try something new. Maybe a tie and hoodie are in your future!

Let me help you get your game plan set for fall!

Lynnekehne.com

Lynne@LynneKehne.com

612-708-2244

** Click on Images for Link to Products **

We have all found some comfort in wearing stretchy pants this last year, and “dressing up” has been mostly abandoned. That said, I’m convinced the pendulum will swing back. But how we shop and how we produce fashion in the future, will be forever changed. The large fashion houses are not making as many collections to push out to consumers. They are listening to their customers about how they are shopping and what they are shopping for.

Designers and manufactures are having to be more sustainable and work in a direct-to-consumer market. Gone are the days of designers creating unnecessary pieces and falling under the pressure of retail buyers. The fast-paced fast fashion cycle might be broken. The upside is that we will all benefit as seasonal demands will lessen, therefore making way for designers to go back to designing for body shapes and lifestyle, rather than for an unrealistic demand and over the top runway shows. I guess you could say maybe we’re getting back to basics.

The fashion industry has battled the surplus problem for a number of years, and this last year, thanks to COVID-19, the problem has not improved. Even deep discounting hasn’t helped with the surplus of unwanted inventories. Somehow, manufacturers must find a way to absorb the excess volume through upcycling in creative ways (meaning turning unsaleable mountains of clothing into treasures).

You may have heard the story in 2018 of Burberry burning unsold clothing in order to keep their brand “pure” – or prevent their products from being discounted and possibly cheapening the Burberry brand. Burberry has since joined the Make Fashion Circular Initiative that aims to prevent waste in the industry and support sustainable alternatives to throw-away fashion. Many notable retailers like Nordstrom have signed on to make the fashion world accountable.

Many retailers have gone out of business due to the pandemic in part due to reduced mall traffic and the rise in people working from home. Authentic Brands Group is a company that buys up struggling Iconic retailers including Brooks Brothers, Lucky Brand, Forever 21, and Barneys New York. ABG brokers deals to license their intellectual property out to other firms for big profits. It will be interesting to watch where these clothing lines will be in the years to come.

So, what is the future of fashion and how will we dress?

First off, I am hoping that malls make a comeback, as that is where I have spent the better part of the last decade!

I do not have a crystal ball and I won’t pretend I can predict what you might be wearing this season. Well ok, I can’t resist! Here are my picks… Tie-dye 2pc loungewear, wider-leg high-waisted crop pants, boxy cardigans, and hands-free fanny packs.

Let’s talk about trends. Have you been listening to the chatter about skinny jeans? Are they on their way out? Trends are often made up by the clothing designers and manufacturers to force a shift in our focus and make us covet a new look. Let’s face it, if something becomes too popular, we grow weary of it and want something new. Being part of a trend gives us a sense of belonging, especially in our social media driven society.

True confession; I wear joggers to fit in. I would much prefer to wear a black fitted ankle pant and a cute sweater. That would be my uniform pre-COVID-19. And as long as I am confessing, I still think that leggings should be saved for yoga classes and Peloton bike rides!

I say trends are just that – trends! Not something to get crazy over, especially in these uncertain times. Some trends are lasting and some flit in and out so fast it makes your head spin. That said, a fine line can be drawn between being fashionable, and wearing outdated looks. Trends are also tied to how we see our place in society; fitting in and feeling like we are a part of something. The good news about trends is that they can become new classics – that’s why it’s important to pay attention, remembering to wear what’s true to your own personal style.

Will we go back to the old days of buying clothing for their good quality and lasting style? Will we want to stop buying disposable fads and count on our own good taste to dictate what we purchase?

It’s hard to believe that we are coming up on a year of wearing sweatpants. I do believe we will go back to dressing up. My husband stumbled upon a pair of dress shoes in his closet, noting that they hadn’t been worn in a year! He was thrilled! I guess it’s hard to tell how quickly we will get back to the office and to our social lives again, but, one thing for sure is I can’t wait!

You might find this story about how department stores can change the landscape of a city interesting:

Macy’s Windy City blues

The department store is closing its Magnificent Mile location in Chicago. Some who remember Marshall Field’s wish it had never arrived.

https://www.retaildive.com/news/macys-windy-city-blues/595578/

Finally, here is a bit of inspiration for those of you heading out of town on a spring break soon!

–Click on images for link–

There is no better time than the present to embrace the outdoors

Well, this time of year I would normally be writing about fall colors and trends. Not this year. I’ve been on my own personal quest to find clothing that will help me to withstand Minnesota temps below 70 degrees. You might think I’m joking, but anyone that knows me can understand how much I hate cold weather. I bet many are tired of hearing me complain that I am cold all of the time. Yes, I’ve had my thyroid checked! I can thank my grandfather for this trait. He would work in his garden on hot, muggy afternoons, in his long pants and a flannel shirt, loving every moment of it, with the rest of the family asking him “aren’t you hot?”

It’s all about wearing layers. I’ve been hearing that for years and evidently not listening. My advice to my clients has always been that comfort is not the key; Come on, we want to look good! I would get a chuckle when I would see my very fashionable Italian neighbor coming out of her house wearing a down jacket in May, as I thought to myself, “Wow, doesn’t she know it’s spring for gosh sakes?”

All of you skiers already know this, you dress for the weather not the season. Call me late to the party, but now I get it!

Here we go, winter gear for the hardy and not so hardy.

Heated Vest

This vest from Ororo has a rechargeable battery that slides into an inside pocket. It will keep you warm hours out on the trail! I bought this last winter and it’s my saving grace for winter walks.

Base layer

Layering is the key to staying warm, and merino wool is the best base fabric; it’s non-itch and breathable. Smartwool is my favorite.

Outerwear

I find a windproof jacket keeps me the most comfortable. If you tend to run hot this might not be the best for you. In that case, choose a down jacket for its flexibility and breathability. New to me is the Killtec brand of ski apparel.

Boots

Bos. & Company boots have ice grip technology soles with a Primaloft and wool lining that keep your feet toasty.

Ice Grippers

This item is not to keep you warm, but safe. These are lightweight, and pull over your tennis shoes or boots for a little extra traction. Who knew I shopped at Fleet Farm? Desperate times call for desperate measures! Truth be told, I shop at Fleet Farm once a year around the holidays to find ice fishing lures for my fishing-obsessed son, and I always seem to find some other useful items as well.

Visit Fleet farm for pull on traction for tennis shoes or boots.

Tights

Hanes footless tights are easy to throw on under jeans, dress pants or sweatpants.

Sweatshirts

Just for fun, try this Vuori sweatshirt from The Foursome. They now are carrying women’s sportswear for the outdoors. Perfect timing, I would say!

Resources:

Smartwool

Bos & Co Boots

Ororo

Fleet Farm

The Foursome

Killtec

Sun Ski and Slope Wayzata

Wishing you all a memorable Thanksgiving! I know I have more blessings in my life than I can count, including all of you!

Do you have your family photo all picked out for your holiday card yet? Did that just send a chill down your spine? If you do have a photo ready, I’m guessing you had a professional photo shoot done recently.

This fall I had the opportunity to connect with Jeannine Marie at Block Portrait Studios. Jeannine had just completed an outdoor photo shoot for my client to use for a magazine cover to be published in December. I had styled the family of five for the wintery shoot in September. Jeannine contacted me about my styling business in hopes that in the future I can team up with her and her photography clients to guide them on how best to prepare for business portraits.

Here is the guest blog I wrote for her website about how to look your best for a business portrait. Of course, Jeannine can help with any type of photography. She will even help you decide what setting is best, depending on where you will display your beautiful portraits in your home. From kids & family to business headshots and branding, Jeannine can help you achieve your portrait goals.

WHAT TO WEAR FOR BUSINESS PORTRAITS | TIPS FROM A TWIN CITIES STYLIST

• BLOCKSTUDIOS2
• SEPTEMBER 29, 2020

We are very excited to welcome Lynne Kehne of Wardrobe Solutions on our blog today! Lynne is a personal stylist in the Twin Cities who helps both men and women look great, save time and money, and conquer closet clutter. Her experience managing retail clothing stores and being a personal shopper led her to launch her own personal shopping and closet consulting business in 2008.

Today, Lynne is sharing with us her best tips for styling your professional business portraits and choosing what to wear.

Lynne’s Tips for What to Wear for Professional Portraits

First off, when selecting an outfit for a headshot or a professional video, keep things understated. The goal is for the viewer to be looking at you and not be distracted by what you are wearing.

With that being said, what you wear is important.

Here are a few guidelines to follow for a stress-free shoot:

·  Wear something you feel your best in. If you feel good, you look good – and that will shine through your portraits. 

·  Wear a rich, solid color that compliments your skin tone. A little contrast is good when deciding what color to wear. A muted or muddy color may wash you out.

·  Wear clothing that fits properly – not too loose or too tight.

Ladies…

·  Avoid front pockets on your blouse.

·  Keep jewelry to a minimum – it must be classic and timeless.

·  For long hair, have a professional blow-out done beforehand.

Men…

· Be sure to have a crisp, collared shirt.

· If wearing a white shirt, be sure to contrast it with a navy, black, or dark charcoal blazer.

· Ties should be a classic with a small pattern that isn’t too bold. 

Now that you know the secrets, we hope these tips will help you as you go through your closet and select your outfit. If you are still struggling to find the perfect outfit, Lynne would be more than happy to help! Visit her website or email her at lynne@lynnekehne.com to learn more about her styling services and closet consultations.

Ready to book your business portraits with Block Portrait Studios?

SCHEDULE YOUR DISCOVERY CALL

We are probably all in the same spot; we need to change things up before fall. Some of us are working from home, some not. A few of you are in the throes of helping someone move to a college campus or a new apartment (as in my case). Whatever is happening, it’s for sure much different than a year ago. Let’s plan for the next season, peek in your closet beyond the 3 outfits you have been wearing since March.

August brings the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale – Better late than never!

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Early Access

If you haven’t shopped the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, I highly recommend it. You can hop on the Nordstrom website and pre-shop the sale anytime before the sale opens to the general public in stores and online August 13th . Your Nordy Club status determines when you can start purchasing, just add things you want to buy into your wishlist. it’s that easy!

Ok, if that doesn’t sound easy, just fill me in on what you have planned. I know you all have important Zoom meetings, social distancing BBQ’s, nights out at a brewery, or boat rides on Lake Minnetonka this summer. Out of ideas? No problem; I’m working with clients in a new way for the sale. Kinda like a mystery shopper, only I know you all so well. I will shop for 1 hour online and send you my picks and you can decide what to purchase. I provide styling ideas and take care of the returns too!

Here are few things I like from the sale:

These throws are so soft. The perfect pop of color for a chair, sofa or bed!

The best towels money can buy!

Hey guys, are you in need of a new 3/4 zip for a Zoom meeting?

And one final favorite of mine that isn’t at Nordstrom:

Since summer is far from over here is the real deal, no pleather (synthetic leather) here. This Michael Kors leather jacket comes in a few colors, that can be part of your fall wardrobe as well.

Click on photos for link to website

Lynne

612-708-2244

I often find companies or products that are doing things well. Here are a few of them, along with a few products that you might find motivating during this up and down time.

I was scrolling through my Target app looking for a little pick me up (per the pandemic). Did you know that Target sells Pureology hair products? Well, this was an exciting discovery.

So, along with my hair products, I purchased this cute little tee. I highly recommend the fast and easy drive-up option at Target. I placed my order and when it was all ready, I got a text letting me know. A very easy way to get instant gratification!

Essence One– is a local company that caught my eye in the last year. Lauren VanScoy developed her 100% natural aromatherapy-based products out of a need of her own. Lauren was suffering from depression and anxiety and was looking for a more natural way to combat her symptoms.

I am a frequent purchaser of the Morning Calm essential oil and body lotion.

https://essenceone.life/products/essential-oil-blends?_pos=2&_sid=a1e6ad86a&_ss=r

My husband and my dog are reaping the benefits too! The beard oil is a must for any bearded man. And my doggie lets me give her a bath with much less fuss since we’ve been using the Adventure Dog Shampoo Bar.

I love the hand sanitizer spray too!

The Laundry Evangelist– Patric Richardson is the ultimate laundry detective. I am a new convert to the laundry flakes replacing my beloved Tide! I wasn’t even sure why I needed to part ways with my laundry detergent, but, Patric enthusiastically explained that the flakes get clothes clean because they are actually soap and not detergent. I learned all of this because, I had just recently been on a trip and was looking for a way to clean my swimwear and coverups. I’m just saying it works wonders on my workout clothes too!

All of the laundry must-haves can be purchased online and very soon at the Mona Williams store at the MOA. Let’s cross our fingers for a June 1^st reopening.

Billie Razors– Do you hate spending money on razor blades that seem to get dull only after a couple of uses? I do, and I have an answer – the Billie Razor subscription service. Billie makes affordable quality shaving supplies for women. The blades last longer than any other blades I’ve tried.

The Starter Kit is your first shipment and it includes a Billie ergonomic handle with two blades and a magic (magnetic) holder to keep your razor stored on your shower wall for just $9. Each shipment of four replacement cartridges cost only $9 and they ship for free. I also highly recommend ordering the travel case for $5 you won’t be sorry.

I will see you all sometime soon, and I will be wearing a cute mask that matches my outfit, of course!

–-CLICK ON IMAGES FOR LINK-–

A new way of life was just thrust upon us without much warning. We’re all at home riding out a storm with no defined ending. But hey, how are you looking in all of your zoom business meetings and happy hours? To feel good in these times we must look good, right?

Looking at life in a new way!

I think we are all looking for new ways to conduct business, shop, and connect with friends as we navigate this “new”, yet temporary, normal. I’m saying temporary, because I have to believe it.

I’ve always called myself an extroverted introvert, and boy, have I found out how true that is. I need people; I think that is why I love my job so much. Meeting and connecting with people through styling or shopping keeps me going. Now I schedule walks and phone calls, and shop online.

Change Can Be Good? Heck Yes!

There have been more than a few times in my life when I had to change course and think in a new way. I had a mentor, Jacqueline Murray, who thrived on change. Jacqueline passed away last month, so she’s been on my mind lately. She challenged each of us to shake up our worlds, and to believe that anything is possible.

Jacqueline encouraged us – almost demanded – that we get out of our comfort zones. She suggested that if you were a night owl, go to bed early. If you were a late sleeper, set your alarm for 5:00 am and watch the sunrise. Sleep on the opposite side of the bed than you usually sleep on. Give yourself less time to ponder and prepare for an appointment, then go out there and wing it! Get uncomfortable, she would say.  I was blown away at these crazy ideas; frankly they made me break out in a cold sweat! What she was doing was making us believe in ourselves.

Working from Home? What’s That?

While at home one evening during week #1 of the shutdown, I got a call from a client. She works for a bank, an essential business, and was explaining to me her frustrating attempts to do her spring shopping online. Timing is everything! I was having my own frustrating day trying to figure out how, when all of the shopping malls were closed and we’re ordered to social distance, I was going to reframe how I do my business. So, we chatted, made a shopping list together, and I started shopping.

Within a week I was on my way to her Bloomington home to deliver the goods. As I sat on her patio on a beautiful Sunday afternoon, she modeled her new spring clothes and sandals, and we made wardrobe decisions, just as if we were in a fitting room at the mall or in her house – and all the while, keeping our social distance!

I know a few of us have a little extra time on our hands. Maybe you have even organized a few spaces in your house! Spring is here (thank goodness) regardless of the situation going on in our world!

When things open up again here are a couple of resources to donate your gently used clothing:

Donate at Resale Select

https://davmn.org/donate-volunteer-veterans/

https://www.epilepsyfoundationmn.org/make-a-difference/

Time to talk men’s shopping opportunities in the Twin Cities. I bet you were thinking, it’s 2020 and time to organize and de-clutter – after all, it is January. I’m not here to stop you from cleaning out your closet (shameless plug), if that’s your January goal, just click here to book an appointment: https://lynnekehne.com/contact/

Back to shopping for men. If your significant other is like mine, he will claim he gets dizzy and loses his will to live as he enters any type of clothes shopping situation. Lucky for him I am a personal shopper! Below are my favorite men’s shops around the Twin Cities and why you should check them out.

Shopping Destinations

Plymouth

The Foursome – My first shout-out goes to The Foursome in Plymouth. The Foursome is a premier men’s clothier with all the bells and whistles. This fine store is family-owned with a professional, classy, down-to-earth style, from custom suits and shirts, to the Tasc Performance line.

Speaking of shirts, The Foursome Byron shirt program is an innovative new way to shop for custom shirts! They take 3 simple measurements and the client can pick from hundreds of fabrics and can choose their collar, buttons, and shirt style.

If special sizing is what you are shopping for, the Big & Tall selection is the best in town. Not to mention they have one of the best tailors in-store to perfect the fit on any suit, pant, or shirt. I tend to hang-out in the seasonal clearance area, hunting for bargains.

North Loop

MartinPatrick3 is a one of a kind shopping experience. This internationally recognized men’s boutique offers apparel ranging from upscale casual to custom suits. You will also find contemporary furnishings, artwork, JB Hudson Jewelers, its own barbershop, and interior design services through MartinPatrick3 Studio.

Jaxson Grey – Michael Druskin, the former CEO of Len Druskin’s, has set-up a men’s Shop in D.NOLO a fashion cooperative in the North Loop. Michael has a rich family history in retail; his parents owned a women’s boutique on 50^th & France in the 1970s and his grandmother was part owner of Jackson Graves. Jaxson Grey sets itself apart by offering new and innovative “digitally native brands”, meaning that the majority of these company’s business comes from on-line sales and they get their exposure through social media.

Notable names, such as Untuckit, Warby Parker and Allbirds shoes, all started out as digitally native brands.

Bonobos

Askov Finlayson

Atmosfere

The Galleria Edina

Twill was opened in the Galleria in 2004 by Scott Dayton. Yes, a famous last name with a lot of retail history. Scott ‘s father owned Harold, a specialty women’s clothing store that once stood in downtown Minneapolis. Twill offers traditional staples along with its sportswear brands, including Vineyard Vines and Peter Millar crown shop. The innovative fabrics and styles by Peter Millar make it a great line for the man who golfs.

Allen Edmonds

Filson

Hammer made

Suitsupply

Trail Mark

Linden Hills

Circle Rock – Shop online or in-store. CircleRock’s House of Style founder Paul Grangaard is the owner and the former Allen Edmonds CEO. Their specialty is custom suiting, with wool fabrics sourced from Italy. Price points start at $995.

Downtown Minneapolis

Hubert White

St. Paul

Heimies Haberdashery This iconic store has been in business for 100 years! I guess that means that they are doing a few things right. Heimies’ suiting selection is second to none from ready-to-wear, made-to-order and made-to-measure suiting options. The pant fabric choices are endless; like gabardine wools, silk and silk wool blends, plus polyester and rayon blends for easy care, and even linen trousers. Oh My! They even have an in-store cigar shop and a fly-fishing department with a full line of clothing, bags, and accessories.

Milbern Clothing Company

Scout

Wayzata

Judd Frost Clothiers

Excelsior

J. Novachis – High fashion for men with unique brands not seen everywhere. J. Novachis was located in Edina for many years and was a staple on the 50^th & France shopping scene. Now J. Novachis lives on in memory of its late founder John Novachis. This treasure of a store is now located in Excelsior, and John’s son Anthony has the reigns.

The good old department stores

Nordstrom – Customer service is real at Nordstrom.

Von Maur – Coats and traditional suits are their strong suit, no pun intended.

Macy’s – Moderately priced clothing a step above Kohl’s & JCPenney.

Consignment

Fashion Avenue on 50^th & France is a treat for the thrifty shopper. It’s a wonderful place to snag a “previously owned” designer brand. It’s no joke, Fashion Avenue is known for its discriminating eye when it comes to what they will accept for consignment. Don’t be sad if they won’t accept everything you bring in for their review, believe me, their vetting process makes for a superior consignment shopping experience for all of us.

Now that you have checked out some of these fine men’s clothiers (or called me to do it for you!), here are a few tips on how to keep your suits in tip top shape.

Caring for a suit

A good quality wool suit is quite sturdy and can last for many years, if care is taken in maintaining it. Stains, wrinkles, or smells should be addressed as soon as possible in order to extend the life of the garment.

When it comes to dry cleaning, a little goes a long way. Spot cleaning is best in most circumstances. Dabbing the stain with a light-colored cloth dipped in water and a dab of spot remover, should do the trick. Investing in a natural fiber cloth brush and giving the suit a good brushing will give it new life.

When its time to have the professionals clean it, take both the jacket and the pants in to get them cleaned together to prevent the unfortunate possibility of the suit not matching after dry cleaning. The harsh chemicals can do a good job of cleaning but they are rough on fabrics. 

Tackling wrinkles requires a soft touch—that means no iron. Steaming is the best method, as it prevents that dreaded shine that comes from pressing with a hot iron. The steam will open up the fabric fibers and will release any odors that might be lingering too!

A natural deodorizer like vodka or white vinegar can be sprayed 6-8 inches away from the fabric without soaking it, and as the suit dries the smells disappear.

Now go out and wear those suits confidently!

As the leaves begin falling and the brilliant palate of fall colors show their glory, what do I think of?? “Oh no, its time to give up wearing my sandals!” As many of you know, I am a warm weather person. My toes get cold if its below 60 degrees. I wish I was kidding!

Go ahead, keep wearing those sandals, but I’ve moved on to “the bootie”!  To add some spice to your fall bootie game, here are a few I can’t resist.

Most of us wear jeans as the main staple piece in our wardrobes come fall. That means we have to find a way to update that look, especially when a change in season is upon us! This is the perfect boot to take your outfit from basic to cool!

This knit bootie is perfection when paired with a dress and tights. It’s also a great swap when you don’t want to wear a pump with pants. Don’t let the pattern in this one stop you. Consider this a solid black when styling.

Ulla Johnson! I love the subtle details. Animal prints are on everything this fall, my advice is to keep it simple

Rain boots have come a long way in the style department. They also keep the chill out, even if it’s not raining.

If you haven’t been to the new SJP Sarah Jessica Parker shoe store at MOA, you must! This camo bootie is from SJP and its so darn cute.

The SJP store is also filled with classy pumps in a rainbow of colors. If you are searching for a unique hue to make a black dress pop or to match colors to a bridesmaid or special dress this is the spot.

Looking for a bit of guidance searching for the right fall footwear? Look no further. Whether its shopping for a bootie or clearing out your sandals, I am here to guide you!

CLICK ON IMAGES FOR LINKS TO PRODUCTS

Link to website: LynneKehne.com

How does one acquire a “style”?

I grew up on shopping. As a young girl, one of my favorite things to do was to shop with my grandmother. She was ahead of her time in so many ways. She golfed and sold real-estate and hosted countless women’s gatherings at her house in Minneapolis. This was the “Dayton’s era”, when we were just two of the many that would travel to downtown Minneapolis to shop. From the Dayton’s bargain basement to Young Quinlan, on Saturdays we would scour shops for something new.

Back then, as it still is today, style is about how things fit your body and how clothing makes you feel. I learned from the best. We bought the finest quality we could afford, and splurged once in a while when the piece was just perfect. Each treasured purchase was scrutinized by my grandmother and I, and sometimes by my mother and sister, if we were able to drag them along. Those two didn’t enjoy the process; they couldn’t comprehend how you could spend an entire day searching for “what”? That was a valid question.

Sometimes it’s hard to describe what the hunt was all about. Looking back on those shopping experiences, I was walking a fine line between fitting in, at my young impressionable age, and gaining confidence in not wanting to wear what everyone else at school was wearing. I guess you could say I was searching for “my style”.

My grandmother had style and she helped me develop mine. Sometimes she would push me out of my comfort zone and encourage me to try something I wasn’t 100% sure of. Usually she was right. The questionable item always made me feel special and ended up being one of the best things in my closet.

My grandmother’s sister, Bernice, would come to town from Michigan City, Indiana every August, at the height of the fall shopping season. I was working for Dayton’s FYI shopping service at the time, so the downtown store was our first stop. Chicago and New York were her usual stomping grounds to shop. But, when she came to Minneapolis and found a Bob Mackie dress in the Oval Room, Minneapolis became a worthy shopping destination!

As each August came and went, and I assisted Aunt Bern with her shopping, I realized that picking just the right things for one’s body type and lifestyle takes a little practice. I was in awe at how Bern, with a discerning eye, could find the most unique and classy pieces that perfectly fit her vogue style. Little did she know she was training me for my future.

In my grandmother’s later years, I became the mentor. When she was in her 90’s and still caring about fashion and how she looked (which was no surprise), we were in a fitting room trying on a blue silk Eileen Fisher dress and jacket. As she peeked at herself in the 3-way mirror, as she always did to get the view from every angle, a darted scowl came across her face as she said, “See that hump on my back? I can’t wear this!” Of course I thought it was beautiful on her, but we were headed back to the sales floor to continue our hunt!

I’m telling you this story because I was reminded of those earlier days this past June, when I was privileged enough to be a part of a fashion show with the residents of Deephaven Woods Senior Living.

The models ranging in age from 70-90 years young, descended on Chico’s of Wayzata to select outfits for their first annual Spring Fashion Show. Each of these ladies had a “style”. They were all fashionable, confident women. It wasn’t difficult assisting the models in selecting the outfits that best featured their personality and made them feel special. This experience confirmed what I have always believed; that we acquire and develop our own sense of style over time, and I realized you can’t put an age on it.

Approximately 80 people from Wayzata, Deephaven, and Minnetonka attended the Fashion show. Attendees embraced the sheer joy of these women in all their glory. A shout-out to my friend Kelly Clarno, the Sales and Outreach Director of Deephaven Woods, for inviting me to be a part of this wonderful lesson on style!