COLOR HIM FABULOUS!

Guy's Guide to Spring/Summer Accessory Must-Haves!

New-Wave Boat Shoes
Nothing wrong with traditional brown boat shoes, but with everyone from Sperry to Gucci doing creative new riffs, why not go for something more up to date than the ones JFK sported? Try a streamlined new silhouette or a splashy color instead.

Patterned Pocket Squares
By now you've caught on to the 1960s Mad Men pocket-square thing—and so has everyone else. Stay a stride ahead by mixing plaids and checks in your rotation. Just be sure to pair them with solid shirts to avoid pattern overkill.

Plastic Aviators

Wire-framed aviators have been a stone-cold classic for decades—now they've gotten a timely update. This new riff co-opts the chunky plastic cool of Wayfarers and applies it to the timeless fighter pilot's silhouette.

The Straw Fedora

Dressing seasonally applies to your headwear, too. That means going with a straw—not felt—fedora come spring and summer. The coolest version right now is known as "stingy," in reference to its super narrow brim.

 

Brightly Colored Faces

Even if all the dudes at your office have thrown a chunk of cash at an impressive watch, they probably don't have one quite like this. A red, blue, or green face will add a shot of badass-itude to your otherwise conservative business look.

 

A Brighter Striped Tie

It's time to take the striped tie—the preppy staple that never goes out of style—to another dimension by adding a couple of doses of bold color. Yes, you can wear these ties at work, where they'll make even a well-worn suit look vibrant and new.

THE BEST STYLE SITES

Whether you are wanting hot new trends or fun ways to wear what you already have, jump start your spring look with these amazing style sites!

BEST MERCH

ShopBop.com The Shopbop was started in the year 1999 as a store called Bop. Shopbop is a premier online shopping boutique for the female fashion.

Bluebee.com Blue Bee is our original store where you will find unique and fun contemporary and young designer collections ranging from dressy tops, suits and dresses to casual pants, jackets, t-shirts and sweaters.

Farfetch.com Farfetch.com unites Europe’s best independent fashion boutiques, so that you can buy from the most interesting designer fashion brands in the world in one easy-to-shop website. Our aim is to provide an exciting range of designers and labels, while maintaining the personality of unique, independent boutiques. This new concept means you can shop from boutiques in Paris, London, Florence and Copenhagen in just a few seconds, all from the comfort of your own home or office.

Stefanibags.com Like most little girls out there, we too, loved our mommies handbags.  We adore clutches, hobos, satchels and totes so much we decided to share our passion for this notorious accessory.  StefaniBags.com brings you the best selection of handbags to help you distinguish who you are every day.  StefaniBags was developed to fill a growing demand for the freshest, “coolest” handbag designers online.  We love the convenience of shopping at home and had the fantastic idea that it would be fun to be able to find all the bags we love in a sophisticated and stylish boutique setting.

$$$ SAVING

ShoeDazzle.com ShoeDazzle's fashion experts choose the hottest shoes for you every month based on YOUR individual personality and tastes. The shoes we pick for you will express your individuality and sense of style. Distinctive, yet trend-right.

Ideeli.com Ideeli is the first members-only shopping community in the U.S. We offer limited-time sale events that feature the most sought-after brands in fashion, home and beauty -- at up to 80% off. Membership is by invitation only and there is no fee to join.

PriceGrabber.com PriceGrabber.com is the industry innovator in online comparison shopping. Millions of consumers use PriceGrabber to quickly obtain free and unbiased information about products, services, merchants and sellers before making a purchase decision. Through continued innovation and consistent focus on providing the best comparison shopping experience on the Internet, PriceGrabber has established itself as the most trusted and effective online destination for savvy shopping.

TheFind.com Find every product from every store, every coupon, and every review.
Everything you need to decide quickly what to buy and where to buy it.

Gilt.com Get access to today's premier fashion and luxury brands at up to 70% off retail. Membership is free and we accept new members daily.

CELEBRITY STYLE

CelebrityStyleGuide.com CelebrityStyleGuide.com was launched in 2005 by Heather Campbell-Green and is dedicated to celebrity style and fashion, clothes and accessories.
Heather's insight as seen in Celebrity Style Guide has brought fashion to a new and exciting interactive level...we put "the fans with the brands!"

Coolspotters.com Coolspotters is a online service that makes it easy to discover and buy the products, brands, and fashions being used by your favorite celebrities – in their real lives, and in movies and television.

SOCIAL SHOPPING

Polyvore.com Polyvore is redefining how people around the world experience, create and shop for fashion on the Internet. Polyvore's easy-to-use virtual styling tool lets people mix and match products from any online store to create their own fashion collections called "sets". The Polyvore community consists of trendsetters, shoppers and aspiring stylists, who create more than 30,000 sets daily and spend an average of 10 minutes on the site per visit. With over 6 million unique visitors and 140 million pageviews per month, Polyvore is the largest fashion community site in the world.

Polyvore members also share their creations on blogs and social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter, extending Polyvore's reach by an additional 22 million impressions per month. This viral distribution network fosters the exposure and discovery of new products, brands and styling insights across a large global audience.

StyleFeeder.com  StyleFeeder is a personal shopping engine that learns your style and helps you shop for apparel, accessories, shoes, furniture, home goods, jewelry, gadgets. Think of us like a Pandora or LastFM for shopping, or a personal stylist who shops the web on your behalf.

Happy Shopping!!!! xoxo

5 SPRING BEAUTY TRENDS

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but behold the new trends in beauty for Spring 2010. From lips to eyes and skin, we've got you covered. Gone are the days of dark, moody as we welcome the days of color explosion and glowing skin.

1. PAINT ME PASTEL. Understated hues that are eye-popping in shades- lavender, turquoise, pink, and sage green- in matte to shimmer are capturing the lids this season.

How to achieve this look: Start slow, one color at a time. Limit your shade below the crease of your lids. Fresh and clean is the name of the game. Have no fear, pastels work on all skin shades, from porcelain white to olive, these universal hues make the whites of your eyes brighter. Stick to a lil eyeliner to create the drama and a nude lipgloss to complete the look. (Our favorites: Chanel Soft Touch Eyeshadow in Bambou, Lancome Color Design Eye Shadow in Personal Style, Clinique Colour Surge Eye Shadow in Frost Blossom.)

2. ORANGE you RED-Y for SPRING. Vibrant red adds a jolt of color and panache to your lips. Jump into Spring full throttle and embrace this fabulous hue. Toss out the dark purples from the past, this is RED HOT!

How to achieve this look: Start with a lip liner that matches the color of your natural lip. Mix a red-orange lipstick with a lil lip balm and apply with a brush. Make sure to keep the rest of your face fairly neutral and then kick it up a notch in the evening with a lil liner on the upper lids. Remember this color transitions from day to night! (Our favorites: Dolce & Gabbana Classic Cream Lipstick in Fire, Tarina Tarantino Conditioning Lip Balm in Paramour, and Kat Von D Painted Love Lipstick  in A Go-Go.)

3. TOUSLE ME TENDER. Slightly effortless and a whole lot of sexy, tousled, romantic curls are in. Get a modern, yet edgy look that looks like you just rolled out of bed.

How to achieve this look: Blow dry your hair with your hands and not your typical round brush. Once dry, add a texture spray (we love Shu Uemura Art of Hair, Liquid Fabric Mineral Texture Spray). Then section hair into 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch pieces and curl with a 1.25" barrel. After your whole head is curled, gently run your fingers it to give movement.

4. NATURAL BEAUTY. Go for glow. Luminous skin is IN. Gone are the days of the matte skin, radiant complexions are all the rage!

How to achieve this look: Remember that you should illuminate or accentuate your cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of your nose. Select a color of foundation that has a luminizer in it to make your life easier. Apply with a foundation brush and blend into your own skin. Dust with a translucent powder to seal the look. (Our favorites: Nars Orgasm Illuminator liquid luminizer, Laura Mercier Radiant Creme Colour, and Dior Poudrier Dentelle Illuminating Lace Effect Powder in Rose Dentelle.)

5. LIKE PUTTY "ON" YOUR HANDS. Nail polish is one of the best accessories to top off an outfit, so with that said, say goodbye to the blacks and navy blues, but definitely try Putty, which is a brown/grey tone.

How to achieve this look: A lighter color can replace a french manicure lovers typical fare, where as, olive skin and darker tones can definitely make a statement with this subtle taupe color. (Our favorites: RGB in Toast, OPI in You Don't Know Jacques, and Deborah Lippmann in Waking Up in Vegas)

NYFW REWIND

Last Thursday marked the end of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York City and the last time the event will take place in Bryant Park, its home of 17 years.
More than 100 designers showcased their Fall 2010 Ready-To-Wear collections at one of the most talked about fashion weeks in years due, in part, to its somber beginning.

On Feb. 11, the first day of fashion week, the news of British fashion designer Alexander McQueen’s suicide shook the entire fashion industry. Vogue Editor-In-Chief Anna Wintour release a statement calling McQueen “one of the greatest talents of his generation.” Curtains shrouded the glass windows of the McQueen store in New York City and flowers and cards were left lying against its walls by fans. However, the shows did go on.
The first show of the week was BCBG Max Azria showing color-blocked silk dresses, paired with white tights and black platform heels. But the BCBG show hardly set the tone for all the major trends that were to be seen in the days to come.
One of the biggest trends from the fall collections was fur. Real or faux, fur was everywhere from coats, to hats, to shoes. Oscar de la Renta used it as a hem for his vibrant jewel-toned skirts and coats. Thakoon’s coat collars and hoods were lined with it, and J. Mendel used it on just about everything.
While the fall collections were not without an abundance of the season’s traditional dark colors, there were plenty of graphic prints, metallic fabrics and sequins to balance it out.
Proenza Schouler showed pants and shirts with a paint-splattered effect. Peter Som, in his ’70s inspired collection, mixed and matched colors and prints that worked surprisingly well together. Diane von Furstenberg used vivid colors and embellished fabric in one of the more glamorous collections in recent seasons.
The final shows of fashion week were that of Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger. Both designers brought their unique takes on American style to the table.
Ralph Lauren showed his classic floral prints and equestrian inspired ensembles but with a bohemian twist. Floor length dresses were paired with masculine coats, multi-colored beaded necklaces and beanies. But the collection was still signature Ralph Lauren with its impeccably tailored separates and whimsical, country club sensibility.
Tommy Hilfiger’s collection was surprisingly more relevant and had a more youthful edge than his recent collections. There were sequined skirts and cuffed leather shorts. This change could be due to the fact that fellow designer Peter Som consulted on the line. But the change in tone seemed to be a positive turn around for the recently lackluster brand.
With the last two shows radiating optimism, change and a sense of looking ahead to the future, New York Fashion Week ended on a better note than which it began. New York Fashion Week will take place again Sept. 9 to 16 at its new venue Lincoln Center.

LIFE IS A BEACH!

Swimwear 2010 takes a new turn, . . .here are some of the hottest swimsuit trends for 2010

FASHION WORLD LOSES AN ICON

PARIS—Provocative British designer Alexander McQueen has died, the company that owns his fashion house said Thursday.

"He has passed away," said a spokeswoman for Gucci Group, part of Paris's retail-to-luxury group PPR SA.

Alexander McQueen at his fall-winter menswear collection in Milan in January.
More on McQueen

* McQueen's Last Tweets
* Twitter Reactions to Designer's Death
* McQueen's Primordial Reveries (10/06/09)
* McQueen's Theatrics Revs Up Audience (03/10/09)
* McQueen Holds (Goth) Court (03/01/08)
* McQueen Pays Tribute to Isabella Blow (10/06/07)

Samantha Garrett, a spokeswoman for the British fashion icon, said the designers body was found at his London home Thursday morning. "We don't have any information in terms of circumstances," she said.

Police didn't directly comment about how Mr. McQueen died, but said the death wasn't being treated as suspicious.

Mr. McQueen was the creative chief behind the brand he founded in the 1990s and sold to Gucci Group in 2000. His dramatic designs, such as reptilian dresses and hoof-like shoes, were met with critical acclaim, yet he struggled to get commercial success.

Mr. McQueen, who was also once the designer for French fashion house Givenchy, was due to present his collection during Paris fashion week less than a month from now.

"McQueen influenced a whole generation of designers. His brilliant imagination knew no bounds as he conjured up collection after collection of extraordinary designs," said Alexandra Shulman, the editor of British Vogue. "At one level he was a master of the fantastic, creating astounding fashions shows that mixed design, technology and performance and on another he was a modern day genius whose gothic aesthetic was adopted by women the world over."

Mr. McQueen received his training at London's Central St. Martin's College of Art and Design, long recognized for its fashion-forward approach and encouragement of young designers. He worked for traditional Savile Row tailors Anderson and Sheppard, and Gieves and Hawkes before branching out into his own more theatrical designs.

His edgy creations have been seen on numerous red carpets, worn by celebrities including Lady Gaga, Sandra Bullock and Cameron Diaz.

News of Mr. McQueen's death came as New York fashion week kicked off, sending shock waves through the industry. "Everyone in this tent is shocked," said Cindi Leive, editor in chief of Glamour magazine. "He was obviously incredibly talented and had a creative energy. There was a real sense of energy in everything he did."

Hal Rubenstein, a fashion director for InStyle magazine, said Mr. McQueen started out tough and angry—in his work and attitude—but softened over time as he felt more appreciated by the industry. Mr. McQueen, he added, was a master of integration of technology into fashion. "He changed the way so many of us see shows," Mr. Rubenstein said.

Fashion designer Richard Chai, who learned of the news as he was preparing for his 11 a.m. show at Bryant Park, called Mr. McQueen's death a tragedy. "He was a genius. I really have no words. It is just sad," he said.

The British designer's death comes three years after the suicide of fashion guru Isabella Blow, who helped launch Mr. McQueen's career.

WHO DAT?

Welcome to Miami! Miami is a fashion destination that celebrities flock to for vaca, some call it home, and others come to unwind, this weekend is no different. SuperBowl XLIV is what most have their eyes on, . . but my eyes are on SUPERBOWL Fashion. Celebrities turned out in style for all the pre-game festivities. And although some would choose a team based on colors, Black & Gold is always in! Blue & White is so last season.

How did Hollywood's hottest look in the sizzling Miami heat? HOT! HOT! HOT!

Rihanna dazzled in a Christian Siriano strapless dress as she hosted the Pepsi Refresh Project Kickoff Party at LIV Nightclub in Miami Beach on Friday night (February 5).  Rihanna accessorized with statement jewels and Jimmy Choo shoes.













Kim Kardashian is heating up Miami.  In town for Super Bowl 2010, Kim rocked a sexy mini, accessorized with matching pumps and a matching clutch to the Leather and Laces Super Bowl Party hosted by the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism. 

Joining in on the Super Bowl festivities, Fergie attended Playboy’s Super Saturday Night Party in Miami Beach, Florida on Saturday night (February 6).
Held at Sagamore Hotel, the Black Eyed Peas frontwoman was joined by her bandmates for the annual southern Florida extravaganza.

Quite possibly the swankiest of all of the Super Bowl parties in town, the biggest names in show business and sports gathered together at the W Hotel: South Beach on Saturday night (February 6).
Joining together for the Creative Artists Agency Super Bowl fete, Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes met up with Cameron Diaz and Alex Rodriguez during the course of the evening soiree.

Keeping quite the busy schedule during her trip to southern Florida, Olivia Munn was spotted all over South Beach on Saturday (February 6).
Looking simply stunning, the Olivia brunette beauty wore an olive green dress as she was accompanied by an officer to The Raleigh for the Maxim Super Bowl party - during which time she celebrated her cover issue of the popular men’s magazine.

Among the many events taking place in southern Florida this weekend, the 2nd annual Big Game, Big Give fundraiser drew out top Hollywood names on Saturday night (February 6).
Hosted by Michael Bay at his Miami Beach estate, AnnaLynne McCord and Kellan Lutz were among the stars on-hand at the shindig held to benefit the Giving Fund.

FIVE LESSONS IN SEXY

Sexy doesn't mean Victoria Secret model. Sexy is an unspoken confidence. It's actually the best accessory that will complete any outfit. It goes with anything and it always fits you!

Here are 5 Lessons in Sexy

1. If it sparkles, you shine. Remember the song, "Diamonds are a girl's best friend"? Well, all that glitters is gold, my friend. They instantly bring glitz to your body. Here's a tip to keep in mind: Go for fitted, not loose when it comes to sequins. Keep accessories to a minimum when your dress is practically jewelry in itself.

2. Long legs are never out of style. The shorter the hem on the skirt or dress, the longer the legs! Try adding a gorgeous heel to the mix and you instantly get supermodel elevation. Simple and chic is never out of style, opt for a V-neck tee, rolled up the sleeves, and a bold necklace to tie it all together.

3. Zip it, good! Zippers are everywhere, therefore, if it zips, it's HOT. Zippers give a sense of youthfulness and playfulness without being childish. Zippers are not being hidden anymore. From heels to jackets, . . .zip to the store to get a piece!

4. Give them the cold shoulder. Everyone's got sexy shoulders, so show them off! And notice that whether its a jumpsuit or asymmetrical dress, cinching the waist with a bold belt will make this ensemble fierce. Another trend is bold shoulders: try sequin shoulder pads to add some pizazz to a basic outfit.

5. Skin is in. Just a hint is all you need. A tiny sliver, no larger than a slice of pizza. Peek-a-boo cutouts are so on trend, yet glamorous at the same time. Whether it's sheer or geometric cutouts, show a glimpse of what you are most comfortable in, your skin!

HATHAWAY HALF NAKED IN GQ

Anne Hathaway donned lingerie and talked to British GQ about movie kissing. "It's a totally different experience," she said of the forceful movie kiss. "But really you have to be Angelina Jolie to pull that off and still look good. I don't know if you've noticed, but I ain't no Angie."
"If you're both unattached and you get along, of course kissing in a movie is fun," she went on. "But you can never get truly deep down and into it. Well, I can't. Jennifer Garner -- now that girl can movie kiss!"

NARCISO RODRIGUEZ GOES VIRAL

On February 15, 2010 the Narciso Rodriguez for eBay Collection will officially be on-sale. The designer’s first-ever original capsule collection will be sold exclusively through the Narciso Rodriguez eBay store (www.ebay.com/narcisorodriguezforebay) and redefines how and where savvy shoppers can buy designer fashion at extraordinary value.

The eight-piece limited-edition collection bears the designer’s signature, streamlined look and sophisticated color blocking, created in a red, black and white color palette. The collection will be offered at accessible, fixed price points ranging from $65 - $350, in sizes 0 to 14, and available for purchase exclusively through the Narciso Rodriguez eBay store.

Download the eBay iPhone app now to shop the Narciso Rodriguez for eBay Collection on the go starting February 15.

WARDROBE BASICS

Ever wonder what are 12 super-easy basics that all women should have to support a fabulous wardrobe?


Undergarments. I am sure you are thinking, “duh, yea that is obvious.” Well I am actually talking about proper fitting undergarments. They are the solid foundation for a great outfit! Without the proper fitting bra and panty, you can end up looking like a stuffed sausage or droopy drawers in some of your favorite ensembles. (Read Tips & Tricks to Finding the Perfect Panty and How to Get the Best Bra for your Body)

Little black dress. Also known as, the “LBD”. This is super essential for date night, post work cocktails, or the art gallery opening on 3rd. Choose a silhouette that flatters your body type. (Read How to Find a LBD for Your Body type)

Trench coat. Whether it’s a chilly spring day or a nippy autumn afternoon. A trench coat is classic and timeless. The best part of a trench coat is they are for every body type. They can create curves for those without them and they can enhance your shape even more. Perfect coat on top of a dress, over jeans, and even a great slack.

Classic dress pant. Pleats are actually trying to make a comeback, however, if your tummy is not taut, I’d suggest opting for a flat-front slack. Stick to basic colors: black, white, khaki, and navy blue.

Classic white shirt. You can never go wrong with a white fitted shirt. It can compliment a pencil skirt for the office, a V-neck sweater for lunch with the girls, and your favorite dark jeans for date night. This versatile piece will have more friends in your closet and can go with almost anything!

Skirt/Short. If you are more on the feminine-side, I’d suggest looking for a skirt. If you are more the tom-boy girl, then an appropriate-length short is perfect for you! Skirts come in many varieties, from full length, tennis, above the knee, pencil, and even flare. Select the shape that compliments your body shape. 

Blazer. This little jacket works wonders on every body type and can even make you visually lose 5 lbs instantly. Button up one of these beauties and you have an instant waist line and you can adapt this from the office to the company party in no time! 

Day dress. Fun, flirty, and another essential that many might not be sure of. Think of a Sunday brunch, baby shower, or a errand dress. I suggest a maxi dress in a soft cotton in a fun pattern. If you are 5’9” or taller, I’d suggest a floor-length maxi dress for a chic sophistication. If you are shorter, then maximize your body length by going for a shorter hem. Comfort is key, but remember comfort doesn’t equal sloppy at all. 

Belts. One of the most overlooked essentials in anyone’s wardrobe. A belt is the finishing detail to an overall outfit. Just like eyeliner and mascara complete a beauty look, belts define your waist and keep you polished!

Jeans. Every human owns them, but I can already read your mind, but I can’t find jeans that fit me. No matter what your issue, there is a jean for you! (Read Be a JEAN-IUS)

A comfortable alternative to a sweatsuit. My best suggestion to cure the “sweatsuit” is comfy leggings and a tunic. Both meet the comfort factor that a sweatsuit has, but with a bit of panache. Belt it and add a long strand of necklaces and you are good to go! With flats for errands or heels for a casual stroll down Robertson. Like I will always say, a sweatsuit serves 3 purposes ONLY! 1.) @the gym, 2.) @home, and 3.) @LAX when you are traveling on a long flight! 

Studs. Sparkle and shine. Every girl needs a basic pair of earrings to balance off every ensemble. If you are a conservative, try a simple pearl. If you like more bling, opt for a diamond stud. Either way, you need a great earring to complete this list!

STRATEGY FOR A NEW WARDROBE IN 2010

Strategy is a systematic way to become a fashionable woman who is appropriately dressed for every occasion.
Many of us are adapting to new roles, and it is time to revamp our wardrobe with these changes in mind.
Some of us simply fell into our current look without giving it much thought. Over time, it’s become outdated or inappropriate for the lives we now lead.

Do you have clothing in your closet that you bought 10, 20 or more years ago? Unless these are fabulous designer fashions that cost thousand of dollars, this may be a clue that it's time for a new you.


 

Step One: Understand
Your Image

Whether you are a sophisticated urbanite, like Metis, or a gal who would rather be fishing, like Artemis, there are women’s clothes that feel comfortable and just right on you. Visit your closet and figure out what styles you love. This is the start of creating a coherent image.

Create Visual Illusions to Flatter Figure

A fashionable woman uses clothing lines, such as seams, stripes, belts, and the cut of a garment, to create visual illusions. Mississippi State University Extension Service has an excellent display of drawings that show how to use clothing lines to choose figure flattering clothes. There are also some good planning documents there.Another basic wardrobe planning document may be found on the page for this ultra-practical work wardrobe. Learn how to make $200 last for a week's worth of outfits.

Coordinate Colors for
Versatility & Value

Basic wardrobe planning includes knowing what colors look best on you. Limit yourself to a few colors and the neutrals that look best with these. This makes it easier to mix-and-match wardrobe pieces.
Shopping becomes a snap, too.
My eyes automatically focus on the jewel tones of blue, green, aqua, purple and deep reds look best on me. I go through a sale rack quickly, because I don't bother to stop to look at size, price, or garment care for all the other items.
The sporty wardrobe, right, for town-and-country uses black and tan neutrals for the main pieces. These are highlighted with neon colors to add pizzazz.

Step Two: Organize What You Own

List your daily activities. Decide what types of women’s clothes you need and how many hours a day or week you spend in them. This helps us see how to best use our clothing budget.
Some of us wind up with too many comfortable weekend togs and not enough for work, clubs, or church. Basic wardrobe planning brings balance into our closets and fashion spending.

Sort, Discard, and Declutter Your Closet

Now, it’s time to ORGANIZE. Declutter your closet. Be tough with yourself.
Identify figure flattering clothes that are in style and fit your lifestyle. Don’t be afraid to split up suits. Jackets often outlast skirts and slacks, which receive more stress on the seams and wear on the seats.
Pile #two is clothing worth keeping that needs minor alterations or cleaning.
Bring a big box for the third pile – clothing to get rid of because it no longer fits your figure, your lifestyle, or is out of date.

Identify Outfits for Your Daily Activities

Here's the creative part.
Now that you know what you have, identify basic outfits for your lifestyle.Get creative. Try clothing items in new combinations. Experiment. Find new items that work together.
Discover what's missing. I end up with tons of colorful shirts, because they are cheap and easy to buy. Finding neutrally colored, reasonably-priced pants and skirts takes shopping commitment, persistence, and patience.
Figure out what you need -- such as that all important black skirt or navy blue shoes. How about the unusual textured blue shoes, above, from Beyla, at Zappo's to add zest to an ordinary blazer?
Every fashionable woman needs -- but too often we forget to buy -- a versatile white blouse.

Step Three: Shop Wisely for
Multi Use Women's Clothes

Make the best use of your women’s clothing budget by buying pivotal pieces of good quality that offer lots of wear. Never buy anything unless it’s figure flattering and you can wear it with at least two or three other items you already own.
Tuck the list of key items that you need into your purse. I often find a clothing sale when I am shopping for something entirely different. Carrying the list with you is also a chance to make thrift shop and garage sale stops super productive by looking for missing items.
To summarize, three principles of basic wardrobe planning are strategize, organize, then shop.
Now that your wardrobe is up-to-date and organized, find some fun activities to show off your great new look.


(Source: FashionAfter50.com)

10 DO’s ON GETTING STYLISH WITH AGE

The most common question that I receive as a Personal Stylist, regardless if they are a celebrity or a private client is, “Can I wear this?”, “Am I too old to pull this off?”, or “What is the age limit for wearing, . . .?” It’s almost like a broken record, so I thought I’d set the record straight.

Is there such thing as ageless fashion? To an extent, yes! Most clothing and how it is styled is “pulled off” by the confidence you exude. With that said, confidence can be achieved through lots of hours at the gym, a little cosmetic help, and by staying true to yourself. If you feel great, you can pretty much wear anything! I say ‘pretty much’ with the exception that you are staying true to yourself and not by trying to be someone you are not. No one would like to see a sophisticated 65 year old dress like some teeny-bopper Hollywood pop princess.

DO’S

• Age is just a number, so think young and it will radiant in your every move, word, and fashion step. If you would traditionally wear black, try to incorporate pops of color.

• Take care of your body. We only get one of them. A gorgeous outfit is only as great as the body that it’s on. Don’t get too skinny, at the same time. Be proud of your shape as you get older.

• Stick to clothes that are structured or a little tailored. A great blazer is an investment piece whether you are 29 or 99. It can make anyone’s body look trim and slim!

• Choose solids: red, gray, khaki and especially black and white. In fact, when in doubt, go for black and white. You can't go wrong with this combo. Think Chanel: eternally timeless, elegant.

• Make sure that you stick to your WARDROBE BASICS and only enhance your wardrobe with accessories to define new trends. (See WARDROBE BASICS)

• Details are everything. Remember a shorter length hem is traditionally more youthful than one that falls at the knees. If you have nice legs, show them off! Also keep in mind, the details can make a huge difference, large plastic or gold buttons can age your great jacket. Opt for a zipper for a youthful touch.

• Embrace new trends with open arms. If scarves are still in style, invest in one that makes you feel good. If it’s bold jewelry, try to wear a piece. If it’s sequins, remember less is more, but sequins don’t have an age limit!

• Remember the life lesson, “Age is just a number. You are only as old as you feel.” So if you still feel 32, then you are still 32!

• Find a haircut that suits your face shape. It's your time to take a chance and embrace your gorgeous face. A fresh hairstyle every year can definitely revamp your look and boost confidence.

• Become best friends with your tailor, as you get older, your body will change. Whether it's fixing a hem or taking a seam in, this person can make all the difference in your wardrobe!

CELEBRITY PAYCHECKS FOR FASHION WEEK'S FRONT ROW

Some stylistas would give anything to sit in the front row of fashion week's hottest shows...but can you imagine being paid to place your derriere right next to the runway? How about being paid hundreds of thousands of dollars to do it...and, of course, going home with a designer gift bag? After a little bit of research, Fashionista compiled this list of celebs and how much they earn for sitting in a coveted front row seat:
A-List
Rihanna ($100,000 or more)
Beyonce ($80,000-$100,000)
Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen ($80,000 each)
Julianne Moore ($60,000)
Maggie Gyllanhal ($60,000)
Chloe Sevigny ($60,000 or more)
Jennifer Lopez (circa 2005: $80,000; circa 2010: $30,000)
Lindsay Lohan (circa 2006: $60,000; circa 2010: UNINVITED)
Colin Firth (pre-A Single Man: $5,000; post-A Single Man: $15,000)
B-List
Blake Lively ($50,000)
Leighton Meester ($40,000)
Hillary Duff ($40,000)
Other Gossip Girl cast members ($25,000 a piece)
Jared Leto ($25,000)
Cliven Owen ($10,000)
Kristen Bell (unpaid, but airfare, makeup and clothing are taken care of)
C-List
Kim Kardashian ($35,000-$50,000)
Amanda Bynes ($25,000-$30,000)
Eliza Dushku (unpaid, but airfare, makeup and clothing are taken care of)
D-List
Paris Hilton (free or UNINVITED)
Jersey Shore cast (UNINVITED)
America's Next Top Model Winners (free)

BARNEYS NEW YORK WAREHOUSE SALE!

Los Angeles

Picture this...the brands you adore and consistently covet, think: Marc Jacobs, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Proenza Schouler, Prada, Yves Saint Laurent and Manolo Blahnik, all 50%-75% off regular prices! I know it sounds too good to be true, but once in a blue moon, fashion dreams become realities! So get your Louboutin’s in gear, because the legendary Barneys New York Warehouse Sale is upon us, and making its first stop in Los Angeles, starting TOMORROW! Trust me, this is one event to which you will not want to be fashionably late.

With an impossibly glamorous selection of the finest designer clothing, shoes and accessories for both men and women, as well as gifts for the home, the Barneys New York Warehouse Sale has something for everyone. The sale schedule is as follows:

·      2/4 and 2/5: 8am-9pm
·      2/6: 9am-7pm
·      2/7: 10am-7pm
·      2/8 and 2/12: 10am-8pm
·      2/13 through 2/15: 10am-7pm

With that said, clear all other engagements off your calendar and get ready for some fashion mayhem—in the best way possible! xoRZ

Availability: Barneys Warehouse Sale begins Thursday, February 4th and runs through Monday, February 15th at the Los Angeles Convention Center, South Hall. 1201 South Figueroa Street. (310.777.5700).