Fashion Advice
Fashion Advice: Should You Get a Stylist?
Juanita asks: What do you think about stylists?
Kathryn Answers: I think stylists are a great option, especially if you’re caught in a style rut or hate to shop. To find a great stylist, head to the Association of Image Consultants International (believe the web address is www.aici.org). Members are working consultants who have completed a certain number of hours in an accredited image consulting program and have been certified by the association. Expect to pay between $75-$250 per hour for a consultant, but a great consultant can change more than just your closet and may even save you money in the long run.
Word of caution: There are a lot of people who claim to be “image consultants” and “stylist”. Make sure you interview prospective consultants, asking for references, a list of course work they’ve taken and their style philosophy. Do not sign a contract until we’ve had a chance to meet with them in person.
Fashion Advice: The Best Colors to Wear in a Photo
Tessa Asks: What’s the best colors to wear in an engagement photo?
Kathryn Answers: First, CONGRATS!! Blessings to you and your fiance
Now to business… Your best bet is to wear a sheath dress in a color, a la first lady Michelle Obama. For colors, think purple (which is a HOT color this season), blue, and green with the exact shade of the color reflecting your skin/hair color (deeper for pale skin/dark hair, brighter for darker skin/dark hair, softer for pale skin/light hair).
Some photo tips
- Keep hair simple and straight. Photos aren’t three dimensional- that perm/curly weave may be cute in person, but will look flat in a photo. bring mousse or gel with you to the photo shoot to smooth down any flyaways.
- Keep jewelry simple and non -reflective (except for your bling!). Pearls works well in engagement photos.
- Place you body at an angle. Here’s how to do it:
1. stand facing the camera,
2. slide your right foot slightly forward
3. turn your body away from the camera
4. place one hand on your hip (this may not be practical in your case)
5. turn your head towards the camera with a slight tip away from the camera.
Fashion Advice: Designer Discounts at Outlet Malls
Kristine Asks: I’ve heard a lot about the Woodbury Commons Outlets located outside of New York City and it is suppose to be a designer mecca. Do you think I could find a deal on a high-end designer bag, like Chanel?
Kathryn Answers: It really depends on what you consider a deal. The Chanel outlet does carry handbags at a discount, but your chances of finding an “it” bag is pretty slim and in my experience, the bags available are usually without the iconic interlocking “CC”.
But all is not lost at Woodbury… The Last Call Neiman Marcus outlet often sells designer bags- like Marc Jacobs, Prada, etc for up too 50% off retail price, there’s a pretty good Kate Spade and a Bottega Veneta outlet. The Gucci outlet carries handbags as well.
To increase your chances of scoring a great deal on a designer bag, shop during the week (avoid, if you can, the weekends) and make sure to head to Chelsea Premium Outlets (http://www.chelseapremiumoutlets.com), sign up for their VIP club, print out a coupon for a coupon book as well as print out exclusive VIP coupon deals.
We’ve got the Photos: Jimmy Choo for H&M Photos
Think of this as an early christmas present. More photos after the jump.
More Photos
Skin Is In at NY Fashion Week
What: Bellies are back. At least judging by many of the looks on the Fashion Week runways in New York, where designers like Charlotte Ronson, Yigal Azrouel, Alexander Wang, and Cynthia Steffe showed off midriff-baring tops alongside other ‘80s inspired looks like shoulder pads, leggings, and acid-wash jeans.
What They Say:
“The bare-belly tops that have emerged as a popular look on the runways were well represented here — some skirts had the midriff cut out — and plenty of skin…”
What We Say: If you’re like us and don’t feel like showing off your midriff for the world to see, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re out of luck when it comes to being in fashion for spring. Instead, use the ‘80s theme as inspiration for your own fashion forward looks, pairing leggings with wide-shouldered blazers and sweaters. After all, there are a million ways to interpret the ‘80s theme without breaking the dress code at school or work.
Luxury’s Losing
What: More and more is being revealed about the luxury apparel market. Even though prices have started to stabilize, luxury clothes just aren’t coming off the shelves and racks fast enough for retailers. It’s not just the “Recessionista” who’s taking advantage of lower prices - even the rich are scaling back their clothing budgets. That means the luxury market isn’t recession-proof - as originally thought - and may endure more long-term than short-term effects. That’s okay news for shoppers, of course.
What They Say:
Shoppers will see more merchandise focusing on the low- to mid-tier luxury prices. That means more dresses from $400 to $600, and fewer priced over $1,000. The average prices for European luxury handbags are now anywhere from $1,600 to $1,700, lower than the $2,000 average seen more than a year ago, acccording to Hana Ben-Shabat, a partner in the retail practice of management consultancy A.T. Kearney.
What We Say: We have to wonder why the luxury market used to be so economy-proof, and suddenly isn’t. We also have to wonder if perhaps high-end apparel was just way overpriced pre-recession and is only coming back down to planet earth now. While the recession certainly won’t hand us over any couture for rock-bottom prices, it will make it easier for us to splurge from time to time.
Do you think the gap between high and “low” fashion is starting to shrink?
Photo by Ileana
How to Wear Clogs: Fashion Advice
Lindsey Asks: Here’s a challenge. Could you do an article on what looks good with Dansko clogs with some pictures? I have recently acquired plantar fasciitis and
these are the shoes everyone keeps recommending. So I have bought a pair, but I still want to look fashionable. Help Me!
Answer: Well, Lindsey the key to staying fashionable while rockin’ the clogs is to maintain balance. Clogs weigh down the bottom half of your body so you want to make sure you balance your upper half with a cool jacket or statement necklace. Another key style tip for wearing clogs is to pair them with tights (please, for the sake of all that is good in the world, DO NOT wear them with nylons or bare legged) and you can go as crazy or as colorful as you like. Note that themore extreme the color and pattern of the tights, the more it may make you look like a kindergartener.
Option #1
Dansko Professional Clogs, $120 at Zappos
Assets Black Tights, $9.80 at Target.com
White stretch fitted shirt, $44.00 at Gap
STUDIO STRETCH HIGH-WAIST PENCIL SKIRT, $49.50 at Express
Fab Cheetah Skinny Belt, $2.50 at Forever21.com
Mossimo Supply Co. Boyfriend Cardigan - Ebony, $19.99 at Target.com
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Option #2
Clogs- Sanita Professional Red Patten Leather, $124 at Zappos
50 Den Tights, $8.00 at TopShop.com
Dark Wash Denim Skirt, $25.00 at Old Navy.com
KNIT DOUBLE-BREASTED MILITARY JACKET, $79.50 at Express.com
Also don’t forget to check out the Dansko Outlet
Where to Find a Wrap Cardigan: Fashion Advice
Rosie Asks: Where can I buy (I will try to describe the sweater) a sweater you put your arms in and then you can then wrap the ends it around your neck like a
scarf?
Answer: Rosie, these sweaters are called “wrap cardigans” (although one of my dearest friends call them schmattas , which is the yiddish word for “rags” or “garment”)
You can find wrap cardigans, regardless of the season. at stores like Target, Dillards, Macys, and Bloomingdales. Here’s some of my favorites:
1. Three Dots Lightweight Wrap Cardigan- on sale for $40.80 at Bloomingdales
2. BCBG Silk Cashmere Shawl Wrap Cardigan for $42- $166.00 at Saks Fifth Avenue
3. Mossimo® Black: Long Sleeve Wrap Sweater - Grey, $9.78 at Target.com
1. Shape FX wrap Cardigan, $19
2. Slub Wrap Cardigan, $38.00 at Ardenb
3. Lucky Brand Knit Tie Dye Wrap Cardigan, $81.00 at Zappos.com
Best Budget Underwear
It seems that undies are a lot like high heels. When they look good, they don’t feel good. And when they look bad (or just plain boring), they feel awesome. So, lingerie makers - why can’t you seem to mass produce a pair of underwear that’s cute and comfy? Oh and also, here’s the real kicker, affordable? Ladies who want seductive, stylish, and/or snug panties are forced to search high and low for the right pair at the department store. And then, shudder, they may just feel compelled to try on several pairs in the dressing room before checking out!
We already know to buy the bulk of our undergarments at Wal-Mart, Kohl’s, and Target, and we love online warehouses like BareNecessities.com, but we want your opinion - what brands and what stores deliver high-quality, low-cost underwear?
Fashion Advice: What to Wear to a New York Wedding
Dear Budget Fashionista,
I need help! I live in south Florida and I will be attending a wedding in October In NYC. I have no clue about fashion, can you please give me some ideas as to what I should wear?
Answer: When in doubt wear black…
A nice black cocktail dress and a stylish pair of black pumps (with at least a 2.5 inch heel) is a safe look for New York and works with all shapes and sizes (just make sure the dress hits you between your lower thigh and knee). Jazz it up with piece of colored jewelry (red is a really hot color this fall or break out your turquoise from last season). Black may be boring, but it’s a great option for NYC.
Fashion Advice: Summer Wedding Outfit
THIS PRODUCT IS NO LONGER BEING SOLD
Dear Budget Fashionista
I am attending a night wedding aboard a river cruise in Newport Beach. Is it appropriate to wear a floral-ish print skirt, solid color sweater top with pashmina scarf and white sling back shoes? Or is this too “daytime” for a wedding?
A: Although this outfit would be fine for a day time wedding, it’s a little too “day” for a night wedding. The wedding is in the evening on a boat, so think about what you would wear to a dinner on a cruise or what you would wear to a cocktail party. My advice would be to wear a floral printed cocktail dress (not skirt), like the one shown to the left, for $59.00 at Spiegel.com .
Fashion Advice: Budget Wedding Dresses
Dear Budget Fashionista,
I am wondering if you have any advice on finding a couture wedding gown on consignment/resale or at an otherwise great price. I refuse to believe that I have to pay $3,000 for a fab gown.
Answer: Here’s some places to definitely check out—
- Last Call Neiman Marcus. LC Neiman Marcus often carries a selection of gowns from major designers like Vera Wang
, Reem Acra, etc. for a fraction of the cost. A friend got a Vera Wang
- Filene’s Basement. They have an annual bridal gown sale that is one of the most hotly anticipated wedding-related events of the shopping season. You’ll find deals from major bridal designers (although most things are a size 10 and below). Head to www.filenesbasement.com for locations and dates for the event.
- eBay. I know it sounds crazy, but you can find great high end wedding dresses online at eBay.com. Just do a search for Vera Wang, Carolina Herrera, etc and see what comes up. Many are brand and are being sold by women who weren’t able to use them for some reason (left at the altar?).
Mother of the Bride Outfits for Hot Mamas
Dear Budget Fashionista,
My daughter is getting married in the fall. She is having a casual wedding and I still have not bought an outfit. I am interested in either a dress or a pants outfit. Any suggestions. Color is my choice—I do not prefer black. I am in my early sixties and wear a size 8-10. I would like to get something a little more than the run-of-the-mill outfit. Can you help? I live in northern NJ and drive so I am flexible on where to shop.
Answer: Why not try wearing a casual pants suit? Budget Friendly stores from Macy’s to Lane Bryant to Off Fifth, Saks Fifth Avenue Outlet (Jersey Garden Mall and Bergen Mall), all carry stylish yet simple pant suits (stay away from the sequins) that you can easily jazz up with a large bright flower or stylish church lady hat. Depending on when in the fall your daughter is getting married, you could wear a nice khaki color or fabulous orange (early fall) or a darker green/navy blue (late fall). For the most part, avoid colors that are too bright (shocking red, bright yellow, etc), as that will take the focus away from your daughter and you will dominate the photos.
Another idea is to check out the dress collection at stores like Lord & Taylor (Which, by the way, ALWAYS have coupons. Head to the store on Fridays for the best deals). Inspired by 40s sirens like Rita Hayworth and Greta Garbo, this season’s dresses provide coverage (knee and below length, with sleeves), while adding a bit of pop (form fitting and hint of cleavage).
And, make sure to ask yourself these two questions before purchasing: 1—How does it make me feel? and 2—Can I wear it again? For more tips on finding a great mother of the bride outfit, head here.
Tips for Finding Mother of the Bride Outfits
Budget Fashionista:
I am a young (49) soon to be mother-of-the-bride. I have been searching for something stylish, but all the dresses I’ve seen are for 60 year olds! What are some tips to help me find a hip mother of the bride dress without spending a fortune?
A: When I got married, my mother, who is relatively young, hip and fabulous, faced the same dilemma. Here are some tips that we used to help her find a hip mother-of-the-bride dress:
1. Check out your favorite designer. Buy a dress from your favorite designer that you can wear after the wedding, getting more mileage for your bucks.
2. Think outside of the box. Unless it’s a formal wedding, leaving the sequins at home. Try a different option like a nice pant suit. Stylebug.com has some classy evening suits by designers like Valentino and Escada.
3. Avoid Bridal Shops. Bridal shops tend to carry ugly, sequined nightmares in horrible muted pastel colors. Try online stores like Bluefly.com , and SmartBargains.com
4. Get it made. This is great option if you know someone who can really sew. Also, try calling your local fashion design school and get your dress designed by an up and coming designer.
5. Bring your daughter. In an effort to be hip, make sure you are following the style that your daughter has set for the wedding.
Holey Jeans: Yea or Nay?
It’s probably safe to assume that holey jeans were an accident; someone somewhere fell down, ripped their jeans, and thought “uh oh… wait, that looks cool.” But many of the world’s greatest inventions were accidents, so that’s not saying much. The holey jean phenomenon—new expensive jeans that look worn out and used, on purpose—is back; just look at this selection at American Eagle. Whether you paid top dollar for them at the stores or sliced and diced them yourself, you’ve been guilty of sporting see-through jeans at least once in your lifetime.
What is it we love about these torn up pants? Do they simply give us that extra edge, that “I don’t care how I look (even though clearly I’ve put a lot of money and/or effort into it)” image? Destruction is creation, and all that jazz. Or maybe we’re just running out of ideas on what to do with our eleven pairs of blue jeans.
Would you feel humiliated or happy if caught in holey jeans? If happy, would you do the cutting yourself or is there a more strategic style to them that you can’t find anywhere but at the mall?
Listen In: Lesley Jane Seymour, EIC of More Magazine on Shoptalk
Click on the player below to listen:
Today I chat with Lesley Jane Seymour, editor-in-chief of More magazine- the magazine for fabulous women who just happen to be 40+.
Three things you’ll learn from my interview with Lesley
- More magazine is showing that women over 40 are sexy, cool, and have better arms than you (stop playa hatin’ on our First Lady’s amazing arms!)
- Nylons were probably invented by a very evil man who was stood up on prom night and decided to take out his angry at his prom date by creating the most uncomfortable pair of leg coverings ever. Unless your a church lady or have a bit of an ash problem (you know exactly what I am talking about), throw your nylons away.
- This Wall Street mess could have been avoided if the powerful women of Wall Street were allowed to wear something other than boring gray/blue/black pantsuits (check out More’s Wall Street Project).
Click on the above audio player to listen.
Don’t forget to call me with your advice related questions at (201-984-5633). I will select a few to answer in an upcoming edition of shoptalk.
Interview Looks on a Budget: Community Knowledge Project Wrap Up
A great interview outfit can only help your job-hunting odds, so we asked you for the best stores to find interview looks on a budget, and you came through with plenty of helpful suggestions.
-Many of you said it’s all about eBay and Overstock.com for separates and suits from name brand stores.
-Discount stores like Ross, T.J. Maxx, Filene’s Basement and Marshalls were some of your favorite resources for separates and accessories like tops, belts, bags, and shoes—though you said the selection of suits in these stores can be limited.
-For suits, you hit department stores like JCPenney and Herberger’s when they have sales.
-At Benetton Outlets readers found items for 50 to 60 percent off, and bought an entire suit (blazer, white shirt, skirt/trousers) for under $100.
-For younger, trendier-cut suits readers head to J. Crew, Banana Republic, Ann Taylor and Express—but for the best deals you shop these stores’ outlet locations, where you can score deals up to 50 percent off.
-Target is your never-fail source for trendy pieces, though you thought their quality could be disappointing.
-You said New York & Company is a great place for interview pieces, like neutral pants and white shirts, at a great price, especially if you scour their clearance racks and sign-up to for their mailing list to receive coupons.
-Susie’s Deals was a reader’s favorite for professional pieces for men and women, all for $5.99 or less.
-And you said thrift stores are always an option for suits and separates—just find quality pieces and have them tailored to fit. Check out TBF’s guide How to Shop a Thrift Store for shopping tips and advice.
Know a store that isn’t on the list? Add it below
Flutter Sleeve Tops: Spring 09 Fashion Trend
“THESE PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”
Okay, we’re not even going to try to hold back here—we love, love, love a flutter sleeve blouse. Love. Arms, after all, are a sensitive area for a lot of women and when we have to break out the short sleeves there’s really no option that’s more flattering to most arm types than the flutter. It’s also unarguably feminine without being so cute that you can’t wear it if you’re over the age of, say, 12.
In this economy, any pieces we add this spring will have to be versatile, and the flutter sleeve blouse fits that bill too, found on pieces ranging from casual to dressy, and can be worn with everything from dress pants and skirts to jeans to shorts. There are so many options out there, we had a hard time narrowing it down, but here are four tops we’d put at the top of our wish list (note: Express had about a kajillion, so it might behoove you to just peruse their site for a style that suits you).
Flutter Sleeve Tee, $24.50, Express
ING Plus Size Flutter Sleeve Top, on sale $32, Macy’s
Wilda Silky Top, $17.80, Forever21
Flutter Sleeve Blouse, $39.50, Express
Get More Mileage Out Of Your Wardrobe Investments
In case you missed it: How to get more mileage out of your closet.
Save your favorite warm weather piece by learning how to unshrink a wool sweater. (Pst, its easy: all you need is hair conditioner.)
Learn how to lock a zipper, and keep your jeans, tight dresses and boots from slowly slipping off. Huh? Who even knew that zippers could lock?
Can’t wait to pull out your silk scarf and sunnies for warm weather? Learn how to keep a scarf on your head letting it falling off.
Take care of your best shoe purchases by wearing them properly. Learn how to break in new shoes without breaking the bank, the shoes, or an ankle.
The Ultimate Guide to Undergarments: Finding Great Fitting Bras and Panties on a Budget, and More
In case you missed it: there’s no excuse for wearing ill fitting undies, no matter what size you or your budget are. Yet, many of us keep terrible panties around for too long, and wear uncomfortable bras from day to day… we open the door to uni-boobs, ripped hose, sore backs and shoulders, unsightly bulges, whale-tails, panty lines… Does any of that sound familiar? If it does, you must check out The Budget Fashionista’s series of tips and Ultimate Guides to Undergarments.
The Ultimate Guide To Undergarments, Part 1: The Rules for Finding A Great Fitting Bra. Don’t be bashful: knowhow often and when to get measured, and learn how to focus on the rights signs of a perfect fit. Also, learn how to take care of your bra, to make sure it lives long.
The Ultimate Guide to Undergarments Part 2: Your Bottom Half. Don’t do disservice to your best designer finds by being lumpy in the trunk. Don’t forget to wash after buying! And, learn whats comfortable, and looks polished.
What’s the deal on pantyhose? To Pantyhose or Not to Pantyhose has a Big Discussion by our dear readers (that’s you!) on when its okay.
Where can the well-endowed find affordable bras? Get the sizing range from Lane Bryant and other well-priced C-cup and bigger selections chosen by The Budget Fashionista.
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