Speaking about trends is tricky business. Some like to ignore the changes that go on in the fashion world and some of us like to jump in with both feet. Just because the designers decide to jolt us out of our skinny jeans and into the new modern flare doesn’t mean we all will take the plunge. It still goes back to body shape and proportion, so not every new style that comes out is for everyone.

 

We occasionally need a little nudge to take the leap from a style we know and love to something a bit fresher. We all are guilty of hanging on to our old standbys well past their prime, and that’s why our closets are overflowing into our bedrooms.
(Time for a closet consultation?)

 

Here are some of the new trends out there to explore!

 

 

Swap out your button down shirt for an off-the-shoulder blouse. This Gingham blouse combines two trends for summer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The utility jacket in blush is the perfect replacement for the moto jacket; save the moto for fall.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If the utility jacket is not your thing, try a black embroidered bomber. This trend will carry forward into fall too, as anything floral has proven it has staying power.

 

 

 

 

 

Shoes are the next trend that can offer a lot of bang for the buck.
This Soludos mixed leather and denim wedge is the perfect
neutral with shorts, pants or a dress.

 

 

 

A cute, flat, minimal, non-gladiator adds a kick of texture without taking over the outfit.

 

 

 

 

Did you finally invest in that handbag the size of a small carry-on? Well, clutches are back in a big way – especially if it’s in this cute rectangle shape. I love this rattan; it screams summer!

 

 

 

Speaking of small, Bandolier has come up with this iPhone accessory that I am crazy about. If you don’t own one, this is a must have.

 

 

 

 

Accessories are probably the most noticeable when it comes to changes in trends. As soon as everyone has committed to the chunky necklace, the fashion gurus decide thin is in, silver is out, and you gotta have a hot Tassel necklace.

 

Trends come and go; not to be taken too seriously. So if you miss out on these, you most certainly will get another chance. Watch for the next hot trend blowing in the summer breeze!

 

 

 

Planning a family spring break getaway? Have some upcoming work travel? Does the change in season or temperature have you wondering what to pack? Getting ready for travel can be exciting and stressful.

 
Sometimes we throw all good taste and sense out the window when traveling. Opt for a simple and classy look. Success means you feel great from the airplane to your destination, and back. And, you didn’t over pack!

 

Tips for getting started:

 
A light grey or black open cashmere sweater is a must for traveling in any season. It’s a versatile layering piece to keep the chill out, whether you wear it under a coat in New York City, or over a dress on a cool Arizona night.

 
Don’t pack a lot of separate items that you will have to match each day on the trip. If you have a favorite item that has to come along, make sure it coordinates with at least two other pieces.

 
To help me plan, I get out the travel bag I will be using ahead of time. That way I can be realistic about how many items can be packed. Shoes are the heaviest and the most space stealing item, pack those in the bottom of your bag.

 

I like to use Packing Cubes to stay organized. They are small rectangle zipper containers, lightweight enough to fit inside your suitcase. If you don’t want to be fishing through your bag to find your swimsuit, these little organizers come in handy.

 
Roll clothing! This is a simple technique that prevents wrinkling. Lay clothing out and layer pieces on top of each other, starting with the largest long sleeved item, followed by those with short sleeves, then top off with pants or skirts. Press the entire stack as flat as you can and roll in one large bundle.

 

What to pack:

 
Lightweight jacket or blazer
Black t-shirt or turtleneck; depending on the season
White t-shirt or blouse
Print blouse
Jeans
Black pants
One dress or skirt
Low profile Adidas shoe for walking
Neutral colored, mid-heel shoe for daytime (metallic or cork)
Evening shoe with a heel
A bright colored pashmina shawl

 

If you are headed to the beach
1-2 swimsuits
Cover-up
Flat sandals

 
Finally, think in terms of outfits or uniforms
• Airplane outfit
• Daytime outfit
• Evening outfit
• Beach

 

 

 

 
Now your only worry will be whether or not you need that new purse for the trip!

 

 

 

Time to get real about your cluttered closets!

 

A closet that is bursting with clothing, shoes and accessories can be overwhelming.

 

Clear out your jammed closets of past bad choices, including clothing that has never been worn, and those good deals in the size you were hoping to be.

 

Start with an empty closet. Only things that you “love” get to stay. It’s worth the effort. Imagine opening your closet to find all of your favorite pieces hanging freely for you to choose with ease.

 

Knowing what you should really hold on to is the million dollar question. Often clients ask about keeping clothing in the hopes that they will come back in style. You must ask yourself, if you had the chance to pull it out again, would you have the guts to wear it? If the answer is no, then say goodbye.

 

If you have a few things you can’t seem to part with, store them in a clear bin and label it so you know what is inside. You can keep one box for what I call “keepers” (no judgment!). This will prevent you from sabotaging the process with indecision. Only things that you are currently wearing should have the privilege of being a part of your working closet.

 

In my many years of cleaning closets for clients, I have discovered that most of us wear a small portion of what we own. We all wear our favorites and the most recent additions.

 

Another tip on organizing your closet space is making sure the structure of the closet works for you. Don’t settle on the given set-up of the hanging rods in your closet. If the hanging bar is too high lower it. Never position upper rods too close to the lower ones, as the clothing bumps into the lower closet rods. This is annoying and it makes searching and sliding clothing impossible. If you make the space pleasing to the eye you will stay motivated to keep it neat and tidy. Make sure shelves are open and accessible.

 

Once you have things set up, organize your clothing by lifestyle. Keep your go-to items up front and center. Lesser worn items like formal wear and keepsake box should be in the back.

 

 

Here’s an idea to keep favorite items at your fingertips. It’s a portable organizer that I found at Urban Outfitters that could be added to a closet or bedroom. This would also be handy for staging outfits before a big trip.

 

This is a great time of year to revamp your closet. Letting go and ridding your life of clutter can truly be a life-changing experience. Contact me for a closet consultation, and start living in the present. Take a deep breath, get real, and begin your journey into 2016!

 

 

 

 

 

What to Give

Oh my! It’s that time of year when gift giving is at its peak. Not a difficult task at all, right?? Keep it simple and think about what the gift recipient would like to receive, not what you want to give them.

 

A great gift is often something the person would not normally buy for themselves. That’s what makes gift giving so fun! Don’t rule out the practical gift if the receiver is open to a gift that is less than whimsical. But, know your audience. If unsure, error on the non-practical side; surprise gifts such as jewelry, bath & body products or services, even a special piece of clothing, can make wonderful gifts.

 

I know what you are thinking; how am I going to accomplish this? First, contact me. I have been gift shopping for clients for many years and it’s my passion. I can assist you with personal gifts for family and friends, or office and corporate gifts.

 

I can pick things out, have them wrapped, and deliver them right to you. I also offer gift giving consultations by phone to get you headed in the right direction.

 

Gift certificates are another option for those that are still undecided. I can send any dollar amount for either a shopping trip or a closet consultation. All services are $75.00 an hour.

 

In the end it’s the thought that counts! So put your best foot forward and enjoy the season of gift giving. Make this the year that you get a little expert advice from a seasoned professional shopper.

 

What to Wear

Holiday office party? Entertaining at home? Meeting friends for some holiday cheer? No need to stress about what to wear. Holiday dressing, December through Valentine’s Day is special, and it should be. One exception is the “ugly sweater” party. Go for it! Wear that fun sweater you picked up at Ragstock. I like to call those items non-commitment pieces!

 

That said, don’t keep and wear holiday outfits that are outdated. If you pull on your red sweater from 1985 and feel frumpy, trust your instincts and wear something more on trend.

 

Your outfit doesn’t necessarily have to be red and green to make it a “holiday outfit”. Try wearing a sequin sweater or blouse in a color that looks great on you. A little sparkle feels festive! Pair the sweater with a fitted black pant or leather skirt, and you have an updated look. Finally, don’t forget the shoe of the season, the bootie!

 

 

 

 

 

 

I don’t mean a stylist to the Hollywood stars. I mean a stylist for you!

 

 

I’m talking about styling what you already own. If part of your favorite outfit is looking tired, we can take the piece that’s still wearable and repurpose it into a new look. Maybe it’s that forgotten print tank you used to wear under a long-gone cardigan. Or that black blazer that was once part of your power suit but now collects dust in the back of your closet. Why not take that black jacket and pair it with a boyfriend jean for a new fall look?

 

This is not about purging. This is about “Lifestyle”. Do you work 5 days a week and all you have in your closet is Lululemon? Often, the solution may be already hanging in your closet. I can help you pull together the right mix of outfits for your specific lifestyle. Let’s make sure to put all your great pieces to work. We can also dig through your jewelry and scarves that are waiting to be worn.

 

Good for you if you come home with another black cardigan and you proudly donate the three others hanging in your closet. However, many people tend to purchase clothing and forget about what they already own. Let’s face it; some clothing is just easier to buy. And who can pass up a great deal? But, buying a piece just because it’s cheap is not always the best strategy.

 

Regardless of whether you work outside of the home or not, everyone wants to look good and feel fabulous in any situation. So, the answer to the question is yes, you do need a stylist!