I'm lucky to work with all different types of clients and I've learned that each of us has our "thing." We may not realize it until we are talking about it. Sometimes it's a certain type of clothing, for example tailored or boho. But, more often than not, it's something a little bit more unexpected: Does the retailer have a fair return policy? I really like fabrics with birds on them. Or, I prefer if the retailer has a generous charitable giving program. It's pretty incredible, as each client's desires offer a new challenge as we embark on updating his or her style.
Read MoreAnd neither does your car or your house or your job. Who you are is defined by your actions, your words, your thoughts.
Your clothes are tools to communicate to others who you are and how you see yourself. For those of us who love clothes and shopping, they can also be a creative expression -- what is more gratifying than finding the exact pair of shoes to go with a dress?
Are you funky and unconventional as a recent client of mine described herself? Or sophisticated, vibrant and inspiring confidence? Do you value yourself enough to invest some time into looking and feeling great each morning? Or are you in a constant battle with the clock to prioritize your needs in the overall balance of your household? It's not always easy, but how we look does impact how we feel and how we behave. It also greatly impacts how others treat us.
So, as we head into rainy weather and the half yearly sale at Nordstrom, I thought it might be nice to pass along a few tips to help you, dear reader, feel good about how you look out in the world, even if you only have a few minutes and even less motivation when getting ready.
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Chicks who wear glasses are hot. True story. Sadly, I've always had incredible eyesight and just sat on the sidelines as other ladies rocked some spectacular frames. I know. Clear lenses exist, but it just didn't seem right.
Read MoreFor those of you who have been around me, you undoubtedly know that one of my very favorite things is telling random people how to find something I'm wearing that they like. Yup. Conversations commonly go as follows, "I love your (let's go with dress)."
"Thank you so much. I got it at (let's go with Target). You should go get one. They have several colors and it was only $28."
Read MoreIt is about time. If you are like me, you have a million ideas about how things could be easier if only someone were to invent X. One of my personal favorites is the, "why hasn't someone invented a GPS for my handbag or my keys?" As it turns out, your friend can call your lost cel phone, but she can't dial up your handbag.
Look no further.
Read MoreI am loving all the real world fashion questions that people have been asking me lately. My good friend, Sara, was so kind as to post one on the Facebook page. A challenge! I'm in.
Read MoreI am obsessed with these pants and I don't bike.
Read MoreWelcome to autumn in Seattle. With the recent cold foggy mornings, it's no wonder we hear the call of our favorite yoga pants. If you're a mom of young children, the call might be more like a shout.
Don't give in. You can still be comfortable and look great. One answer: the maxi skirt. It's just as easy to throw on as a pair of sweat pants. Pair it with the same v-neck t-shirt and a cardigan you were planning to wear, add a scarf and you are suddenly chic.
Most maxis are super functional, but take care to find the one that fits your needs. A few of my favorites:
Read MoreClient after client seems to think that current trends are for someone else. Not true! Of course, it is imperative that your style reflect who you are and not just the latest fad. But, your look can be authentic & current. Often times, you just need one new piece to change everything. Such as:
Read MoreToday I'm surfing the world wide web on the behalf of a client who falls into that small corner of the style world between preppie and edgy. One of my favorite corners, if I do say so myself.
On this venture I stumbled upon the term, "Treggings." I'm sorry what? Yes. Treggings. Thank you, Top Shop for making sure we have ample opportunity to latch onto this one. I thought I'd make sure that you, dear reader, are never in the dark at a dinner party or on a shopping spree when the various iterations of leggings come up.
Read MoreA huge thanks to the folks at Elegant Affairs for sharing Poplin with their blog readers. As a special thank you, today's blog post answers one of the most common questions brides ask: I have the perfect dress. Now, how do I stay warm on my wedding day?
Answer: The faux fur shrug. Let's face it, few things are more on trend right now than leather, faux fur and animal prints. But you can bring an unexpected, sophisticated AND uber practical touch to your big day by rocking a quality (hand-made in Seattle!) shrug like these one from Foxglove Bridal. This one even has pouches for your hands!
Read MoreThis year, I've been fixated on finding the perfect pair of brown boots. And, I did! Thank you, Nordstrom. They can be worn over the knee or slouched down. Dressed up with a fitted dress or down with leggings. And, they are super comfortable. Thank you, Frye.
Sadly, like many other slip on boots (ack, no zipper!), I couldn't get them on my feet. With high arches, this is a common issue for me. However, I had the salesperson of dreams, Alec at the downtown Seattle store. And, he showed me this week's Genius Trick of the trade: Getting those boots on.
Read MoreIf you've been in a store in the last several months, you've undoubtedly seen leather, vegan leather and vinyl everywhere. Maybe at first you thought, leather pants, no way! But, now, the pants, the jacket, a shirt perhaps are all starting to seem possible.... make that essential, if only you knew how to make it all work. Here's a tip to get you started:
Find a unique signature piece that can also be a staple.
Read MoreThings I love: fashion, design and projects with our 3 year old son. Things I LOVE: when the three collide. Thanks to the genius of Martha Stewart and her crew, a few years I ago, I discovered the magic of dying wood beads to make necklaces. It's an incredible project with kids of all ages as they can participate easily. Addie helped me make the necklace below. His favorite part is using a disposable chop stick to push around the floating beads to make sure they are covered evenly.
Read MoreOne magical day last year, I discovered Tsubo. Fashion forward with a focus on comfort and craftsmanship, the brand won my heart. I found a pair in the incorrect box at the Rack, clearly hidden away from other shoppers. I won.
I've had that pair of Tsubos for over a year and they are a clear go to when I know I'll be on my feet for a substantial amount of time AND I want something edgy that attracts attention.
Read MoreIn any other city, you might consider an umbrella. Not in the great Northwest. We only use umbrellas as accessories to complete a look (if the umbrella is exceptionally stylish or we have a job interview), in extreme weather or if we absolutely MUST walk across downtown during a rainstorm.
What's a girl to do?
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