Beautiful Skin: Part I

Come Fall, I tend to focus on my skin more than I do in other months. Perhaps it's because the changing weather makes my eczema flare up a bit, requiring a little extra care… Perhaps it is that I am without a tan (faux or otherwise) to camouflage imperfections….Or perhaps it's because with the layered clothing of cooler weather, my face feels on display. So over the next couple of months, I am going to try out and review different skincare treatment options. 

First I checked out the facial treatment available at Smart Skin Med Spa. You may know Smart Skin from their Homewood and Crestline locations, but now, conveniently for me, they have a location inside one of my favorite stores, Gus Mayer at The Summit. Tucked in the back of this luxury department store is a tranquil treatment room, equipped with the latest and greatest, cutting edge equipment skin care has to offer. Rachel, my knowledgable and lovely aesthetician, introduced me to 2 treatments that felt very high tech - colored lights and all! 

The HydraFacial is a non-laser skin resurfacing procedure that utilizes super-serums filled with antioxidants, peptides and hyaluronic acid to boost hydration, help address the signs of aging and protect skin from environmental leaving it recharged, renewed, and invigorated. In a nutshell, the procedure combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, and hydration resulting in better-looking skin. Apparently, the Vortex-Fusion® serum delivery system is what sets the HydraFacial apart from other procedures. The multi-step treatment cleanses, evenly exfoliates and extracts to remove impurities and dead skin cells while at the same time replenishing vital nutrients including Antioxidants, Peptides and Hyaluronic Acid. Thanks to the devices’ superior delivery system, these performing ingredients are able to more effectively reduce the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles for results you can see and feel instantly. Check out some of the photo results here.

Next came the Pro-Light Therapy, which is like a disco for your face. Red, Blue, and Amber lights are used in combination to combat aging, reduce redness, irritation and rosacea as well as killing acne-causing bacteria. I don't know how it does this, it's "SCIENCE!" (in my best Thomas Dolby impression voice) The primary goal of ProLight LED Light is the stimulation of new collagen, which visibly improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles without damage to the overlying epidermis. Plus you feel super fly while it's happening.

Finally, we moved on to SmartSkin's other popular offering, the Signature Ultrasound Elite Facial.  The entire procedure feels more ticklish than it does painful, with high-speed oscillations courtesy of ultrasound waves. First, exfoliation via light microdermabrasion is performed to remove the top layer of dirt, oil, and make-up; Second, ultrasound with LED lights and custom masque (a lifting and hydrating gel is applied to your face and neck that is much like the gel applied during sonograms) to completely empty oil ducts and shrink pores from the inside out, tighten, tone, and help with fine lines and wrinkles; and Third, an oxygen jet treatment to re-hydrate and preserve your skin for longer lasting results.  My aesthetician Rachel said, "The ultrasound skin-tightening device reaches deep under the skin, penetrating underneath the facial muscles." This treatment offers results like those of much more dramatic, invasive procedures, with none of the downtime.

Ultrasound treatment was recently featured on Entertainment Tonight as a way to combat aging and delay more invasive surgeries.

My consensus of the whole experience? I admit I'm a sucker for anything high-tech when it comes to my skin - if great minds can come together to combat the aging process, I want to be a part of that. So while this treatment may not have had all of the soothing smells and bells of a regular spa, my skin felt tightened and hydrated when I left, like I had done something beneficial rather than just relax for an hour. Fortunately, SmartSkin offers monthly memberships so my skin can benefit from their expertise on a regular basis. 

Confessions of a Stylist: 5 Myths, Busted*

One of the things I set out to do when beginning my career as a wardrobe stylist almost 16 years ago was to dispel the myth that a stylist was a luxury only afforded by celebrities or wealthy people. Thanks to stylist-to-the-stars Rachel Zoe, who has made a name for herself dressing A-list clients and having her own TV show, the general public now knows what the heck a wardrobe stylist is. However Zoe has not done much to promote the image of a stylist as accessible to all, as the majority of people don’t spend their lives walking red carpets. I wanted to be - and believe I have become - a “real world stylist," if you will: approachable, non-pretentious, and accomodating to clients from all walks of life. In my view, just as not everyone has a knack for decorating their home - so they call in an interior decorator, nor does everyone have a green thumb for making their yard bloom - so they employ a landscaper, so should those who lack the skills or desire to put together an appealing wardrobe be able to seek style assistance. In order to reach that audience, I have to continually banish assumptions. Here are the top 5 myths about stylists that I hear most often.   

Myth 1: Stylists only buy the most expensive brands.
“I’m sure you only wear designer clothing."

Even if I made Rachel Zoe money, I wouldn’t exclusively buy designer clothing. I am brand conscious in the sense that certain ones tend to fit my shape better than others, but I would never select an item solely based on the brand. And I loathe blatant logos. Take one walk down Rodeo Drive and you will see that money doesn’t buy taste. What matters more than how much you pay for your clothing is how you outfit pieces together. As my July Style Icon, fashion industry legend Arlene Goldstein, said, “It’s all in the mix.” Like Goldstein, in my closet you will find high and low end: Topshop next to Theory, H & M next to Helmut Lang and so on. What is fun for me is to observe designer looks, whether in magazines or on runways, and then reinterpret them for my own lifestyle, figure and budget.

My proportions certainly aren’t the same as Victoria’s Secret model Alessandra Ambrósio, nor is my pocketbook (her Gianvito Rossi sandals alone are $1,095), but that didn’t stop me from loving her summer street style. From my existing wardrobe, I pulled items to emulate the look, but make more sense for my lifestyle: Instead of a genuine suede mini skirt, faux suede shorts from Fabrik Homewood. American Rag jacket (Macy’s); Fabrik v-neck tank; Charming Charlie fringe bag; Stella & Dot stud earrings, aviator shades and long necklace; Banana Republic crystal cuff; Seiko watch (my late father’s); Charlotte Russe leopard wedges.

When clients lament that they love but cannot afford designer duds, I encourage them to use those styles as inspiration to create their own "looks for less.” That said, as I’ve aged and feel less obliged to follow every fashion trend, I make an effort to choose quality over quantity. Tommy Hilfiger hit the nail on the head when he said, "Quality always wins. If you're wearing something of incredible quality it will outshine any trend, any fashion idea, and anything that's funky or groovy."

While I loved the 2-piece Tibi ensemble ($625) on the left, a midi length skirt isn’t flattering to my petite stature, and a strapless cropped top not practical for everyday wear. So I was delighted when I found a dress (in Petite sizing no less!) with a similar feel at the LOFT Outlet for $19. I wear it to beat the Alabama heat while running around town, therefore pair it with my comfortable Qupid wedges from Fabrik Homewood.

Myth 2: Stylists have no fit issues.
“You’re small so you look good in anything.”

At 5’1", I am below the national average of 5’4”, and shy runway stature by almost a foot. I’m pretty sure that my legs are the same length as Giselle Bundchen’s torso.

At 5’1” (if you round up, and I hope you will), I have my own fit challenges, so can easily relate to the myriad of style issues my clients report facing. I find that monochromatic dressing lengthens my petite frame, so I decided to try pattern from head to toe with this Free People jumpsuit. Stella & Dot cuff and earrings; Cordani sandals.

Some assume that just because I am small, I can wear anything. Consider that the average fit model (the bodies upon which clothing sizes are based) is 5’7” and a size 6. If that is your size, congratulations, you are in the tiny percentage of the population who can successfully wear off the rack. The rest of us have to take proportion into consideration, and either strategically mix our pieces, invest in alterations, or both. Proper fit is absolutely key to looking polished, but it doesn’t always come easy. From my mentor Tim Gunn I have borrowed the phrase, “Make it work!” Looking great is, after all, a bit of eye trickery. The idea is to camouflage those parts of our body we’re not crazy about, and accentuate those aspects we do like about ourselves. Have killer legs? Wear more skirts and shorts. Love your collarbone? Highlight it with boatneck tops. As a “super petite,” I find I am best flattered in hem lengths above my knee, shoes with at least 2 inches of heel, pants no shorter than my ankle bone, and sleeve lengths no longer than my wrist bone; and I avoid ruffles and bows lest I resemble the 12-year-old girl whose height I mirror.    

Myth 3: Stylists follow fashion rules.
“I bet you never make fashion faux-pas.”

In our current “anything goes” fashion world, what IS a fashion faux-pas these days anyway? Those who know me well know that I usually roll with the motto, “It is better to ask forgiveness than permission.” Rule following isn’t my strong suit. When advising clients, I might invoke guidelines, but I never use the word “rule.” In fact, in my typical wardrobe seminar for businesses, I have a whole segment based upon antiquated fashion rules now meant to be broken - like wearing white only between Memorial Day and Labor Day (see the addendum following this article) or avoiding color combinations like pink & red or black & navy. I’m not a proponent of limitations when it comes to creativity, especially when it comes to personal style. I must admit that when a new client tells me that according to her Color Me Beautiful chart circa 1996, she is a “Winter” and can only wear certain colors, I roll my eyes (but on the inside of course…most of the time). I’m a fan of wearing what makes you happy. Love yellow despite the fact it’s not on your color wheel? Wear it! Want to wear white in December? Go for it! Finding one’s personal style is achieved though channeling one’s authentic self, so avoid censorship.

Myth 4: Stylists never make fashion mistakes.
“I’m sure you never have buyers remorse."

Sometimes when I get undressed at the end of a day, I think, “Wow, that outfit was an epic fail. Thank goodness I never have to wear it again!” And therein lies the beauty: fashion is not permanent. If anything, it is a lifelong experiment. I give myself, and my clients, permission to constantly evolve. While I admit it is rare (thanks to years of experience), I do from time to time make fashion mistakes. And guess what? That doesn’t make me a bad person or stylist. Give yourself a break! Buying mistakes are all part of the learning process, whether you’ve stepped a bit too far out of your comfort zone with a particular garment or played it too safe and brought home something exactly like ten other things in your closet. Analyze your mistake so you can avoid making the same mistake twice, then move on. To keep your closet clutter free of such items, I recommend keeping nearby a bag for giveaways. If you put something on then take it off for whatever reason, into the bag it goes. When my bag fills up, I take it to my local charity bin. Comedienne Rita Rudner once joked, “The saleslady told me the dress looked better on. So I took it home and put it on and I wondered, ‘Looks better on what? On fire?'"  

Yes, even I make purchase mistakes. Like this Topshop vest bought in a Magnificent Mile shopping frenzy during a trip to Chicago. After trying it out in a few outfit combinations, I realized that, alas, it was not the couture lookalike I hoped it was. Moving on!

Myth 5: Stylists are judgmental of the fashion choices of others.
“I didn’t know I’d run into you today; don’t look at what I’m wearing!”

I truly hate the fact that some people feel the need to greet me with a disclaimer: “Oh my gosh I just threw this on to run errands, you must think I look awful!” Actually, Suzy Q, I was thinking how nice it is to see you. Sigh. Contrary to the belief of some, I do not have a filter through which I see everyone with black bars over their eyes. (Also, see Myth #4.) If asked to critique, I can certainly shift into that mode and do so. Otherwise, I’m “off the clock,” so to speak. In a similar vein, I don’t expect my style to be your style. A prospective client once asked me, “How do I know you aren’t going to try to make me look just like you?” To which I retorted, “My style is MY style, you can’t have it! You’ve got your own and we will find it!” Part of my job is to help people find their best selves and learn how to communicate to the world that self through his or her style choices, even if those are choices I wouldn’t make for myself. 

*As published in B-Metro Magazine, August 2016.

Addendum: The Memorial Day to Labor Day Limitation on Wearing White is an Antiquated Notion

Here's why: in the old days, families had coal-burning furnaces in their homes. These heating systems emitted tiny bits of soot into the air, which would make light or white clothing appear grayed and dingy. So when the furnace was turned on - which in some parts of the country was around Labor Day - those particular clothing items were moved to the back of the closet. When It was time to turn the furnace off for the season, which was around Memorial Day at the latest, that clothing could come back out to play. Therefore, unless you're still running a coal-burning furnace, in which case I think you might have more trouble with the EPA than the Fashion Police, you're good to go wearing white anytime of year as long as it's temperature appropriate.

Chic Tip

A wardrobe is like a garden that requires constant weeding. Don't let it get overgrown! I keep an empty bag in my closet for discards. When I put on a clothing item then take it off because I don't like the way it fits or looks, into the giveaway bag it goes. When the bag is full, I drop it off at the nearest charity bin, which in my case is the King's Home recepticle at Whole Foods Market Birmingham. ‪#‎reduce‬ ‪#‎reuse‬ ‪#‎recycle‬

What the heck is a Transition Shoe?

It took 15 years of my being in the fashion industry for the mainstream to finally come up with a name for the type of footwear appropriate during that sometimes warm/sometimes cold period between the end of Winter and full-on Spring. A shoe to fill the style space between boots/booties and bare sandals. While I have been using the term "transition shoe" for a few seasons now, I admit to using other less-eloquent sounding descriptors, including, but not limited to, "in-between shoe," "like a bootie but not really," "more covered-up sandal," and "high-heeled gladiator." No matter what you call them, get yourself a pair to wear with your jeans and tops and even dresses. Here are some of my picks of the season. (Note: be sure to click the arrow to see all of the columns, they like to hide.)   

Chic Picks: Neutral Flats for Spring

While I'm known for always wearing some sort of heel, most of my (less height challenged) clients prefer something more sensible. In the South, there is that span of time in between boot weather and sandal weather, otherwise known as Spring. What to wear before baring those pedicured toes? A ballet flat in a neutral nude or metallic is the most versatile, easily coordinating with the whites and colors Spring brings. When I was recently asked by a client to find online  some of my favorite options in this category (that take comfort into concern and will stay on her feet), I decided to share the wealth here. Click on picture for more information on each style. (Want a transitional style with a heel? Stay tuned!)   

My Stylist's Kit

One of the bits of advice I share with clients during consultations is about the tools and products I use to make being stylish and polished just a little easier. Here are the Top 4 Tools of the Trade:

1) Fabric shaver (Fave: Evercare's Giant Fabric Shaver, below)

Add life to your pilled sweaters with a fabric shaver. This gadget is instantly gratifying in that the attached container catches all of those nasty little fuzzballs. Most models come with a plastic guard which should be used when shaving more delicate knits like cashmere to prevent snagging. Tip: Don't think you can shave your sweater and head out the door. To get the most benefit, spend a minimum of 10 minutes running the shaver over the garment.

2) Seam ripper (Fave: Mighty Bright Lighted Seam Ripper, below)

Whether removing a price tag, label or vent stitch, avoid damaging your garment by having a seam ripper on hand. You'll end up finding a multitude of uses for this little tool. Tip: Invest just a few more dollars in a lighted, magnified version. Your eyes will thank you!

3) Wrinkle release spray (Fave: Downey Wrinkle Releaser, below)

This product actually works and has changed my life. After burning myself with an iron as a kid (ok, I was doing one of those faux stained glass craft projects, not ironing clothing), I pretty much swore off the chore. I have prepped entire photo shoots with this stuff, not to mention how great it is for travel! Simply spray the wrinkles, pull/tug taut and let dry, and voila! Wrinkles gone. Tip: Don't be afraid to saturate your garments. While I don't receommend for silk, I have had no problem using on cotton or synthetics.

4) Personal steamer (Fave: Jiffy ESTEAM Hand-Held Travel Steamer, below)

When stubborn wrinkles just won't relax with spray, the situation calls for a steamer. While I do own an industrial steamer, I find I don't want to dedicate the space required to keep it set up 24/7 nor do I have the patience for the heat-up time. Back in the days of Parisian being my biggest fashion event client, I was introduced to Jiffy Steamer’s ESTEAM,  the most powerful hand-held steamer on the market (3 times more power than most others), and the only one I would ever use. This simple-to-operate steamer is ideal for use at home, in the office or on the road. With a quick heat up time of less than 2 minutes, it will steam continuously for 15 minutes per filling. Tip: This steamer also works for upholstery. It has proven invaluable for my linen slipcovered furniture.

Chic to Be Pink: MAKE TIME FOR A MAMMOGRAM

I've said it before and I'll say it again...being healthy is STYLISH. And I don't just mean wearing your cute organic cotton dress to shop at Whole Foods. I'm talking PREVENTION, folks. And why am I talking about it? Because it is CHIC and SIMPLE to be smart about your health.

THE 411

You already know October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, but did you know Brookwood Medical Center is hosting an all-day (as in 6AM to 10PM!) mammogram event on Thursday, October 22? With those hours, your excuses are really falling by the wayside (you know you were going to DVR How to Get Away with Murder anyway.) So call 205-802-6900 to get an appointment that fits into your schedule that day or evening. Parking is FREE, just bring your ticket for validation. 

THE FUN STUFF

There will be entertaining and informational activities going on throughout the event (no boring waiting room here): a fashion show, cooking demonstration, holiday makeup consultations, swag bags for all, breakfast/lunch/dinner served (hello?!?), and bra fittings by Belk/Wacoal. If you think that last offering sounds funny, consider this: 80% of women wear the wrong size bra. I see evidence of this all the time when working with clients, and a proper fitting is where we begin. Belk & Wacoal are partnering with BMS on this event, donating $4 to Susan G. Komen for every woman who participates in a complimentary fitting. (No purchase necessary.) I will be at the event from 9:45-12:45 with the B-Metro Magazine Live Blogging Team. Stop by then or Tweet/Facebook message me to tell me you got your mammogram earlier or later!

THE MEDICAL STUFF

No referral is needed for a mammogram screen.  Baseline mammograms are recommended at the age of 35 and annual mammogram screens are recommended annually at the age of 40. 3-D Mammograms will be offered as well. This technology helps doctors find breast cancer  earlier. All patients may upgrade to a 3-D mammogram for an additional $50.

Here's the clincher that made me decide to make time for a mammogram: do you know someone special to you who has been touched by breast cancer? What's the one thing you could do in their honor that would have the most impact? Yep, so do it. Make your appointment for 10/22.

Style by the Numbers

1666: Year King Charles II of England copied French king Louis XIV by demanding that men in court wear waistcoats, trousers, and ties. Alas, creating the first "dress code." This is on my mind as I head out today to give a style seminar to a group of bankers on how to spruce up theirs.

Issuing a dress code was where the similarities to the French ended, as Charles specifically wanted to get away from "French fashions," placing out of favor the big wigs and red high heels popular at the time.

Instead, court would adopt what essentially became the three-piece suit: a long waistcoat to be worn with a knee-length coat and similar-length shirt (made of English wool, not French silk). The emphasis was on cloth and cut, not ruffles and accessories. One could argue that the English suiting tradition began here – concentrating on silhouette and quality of wool rather than colour or decoration. The outfit was finished off with a sash, stockings and buckled shoes. Over time the waistcoat became shorter and shorter, until by around 1790 it reached the length we recognize today. It has been sleeveless since the 1750s.

Splurge or Steal?

Sometimes, after careful consideration, there are items we feel worth the investment. Sometimes we just want a quick fashion fix. The options are always there, so you decide!

Lanvin, $2,790:

Steal, $24-$265:

How to Pack Like a (Chic) Pro

Buffy York of The Style Gathering asked me to contribute to her fabulous blog, with some advice on how to reduce the stress of packing for summer trips (and avoid overpacking!), whether business or pleasure. So hop on over to The Style Gathering for my tips and tricks!

Packing Like a Pro - guest post on The Style Gathering

A "must-have" travel product mentioned in the article is wrinkle release spray. I use the Downy brand, but there are plenty of options out there, like for those who might prefer all-natural or fragrance-free.

Internship Posting

Seeking a 1 month summer Intern (age 16 & up welcome) to begin Monday, July 6th, ending Friday, July 31. Weekly hours will vary, some weekend work may be required. Internship is unpaid, for course credit or experience only. Tasks to include assisting Tracy with clients (shopping & closet revamps), fashion editorials, on photo shoots, at style seminars and daily at Fashion Camp (7/9-7/31, 9am-2pm each day). Fashion experience and writing skills preferred but not required. If interested and for more information, please send an email to tracy@chicmadesimple.com with "Internship" in the subject line.

Bye-Bye Bags (undereye, that is)

From Preparation H (gross) to green concealer (been there, done that), women have tried just about everything to tackle undereye circles and bags. I don't know about you, but I've never found anything that works. Well, my fellow bloggers and I were blown away tonight at the MD Wellness & Aesthetics Grand Re-Branding event to see in action Instantly Ageless, a powerful anti-wrinkle microcream that acts quickly and effectively to diminish the visible signs of aging. Peeps, I'm here to tell ya, this stuff actually works!! Lindsey Lutz of Life Lutzurious graciously volunteered her pretty peepers to the cause, and HELLO?!..look at her results!! The "After" picture was taken 2 minutes after the first - it looks like she has been photo-shopped under her eyes! 

Let me reiterate that the photo on the right is NOT retouched! That's Lindsey just 2 minutes after applying Instantly Ageless to her under-eye area.

Apparently the key ingredient is argireline: a peptide that works like Botox, without the needles. Here are the benefits claimed by Instantly Ageless, and I gotta say, none are BS! 

-VISIBLY DIMINISHES THE APPEARANCE OF FINE LINES & WRINKLES

-ERASES THE APPEARANCE OF DARK CIRCLES & PUFFINESS UNDER THE EYES

-MINIMIZES THE APPEARANCE OF PORES

-HELPS TO EVEN SKIN TEXTURE

-MATTES SKIN FOR A FLAWLESS FINISH

-RESTORES SKIN TO OPTIMUM APPEARANCE

Here's the bottom line: Instantly Ageless comes in a package of 50 applications, each of which lasts til you wash your face, and costs $75, which equals out to about $2.50 per day. Seems like a reasonable price to pay to get rid of some baggage! Swing by MD Wellness & Aethetics in Inverness Corners to pick up some and try for yourself!  

Printed Britches (How to Wear them & Not Look Like Wallpaper)

"Florals? For spring? Groundbreaking." OK, so Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada had a point. But it wouldn't be spring if we weren't ditching our dark winter duds for bright prints. While florals (feminine to funky) certainly abound for spring/summer 2015, a variety of other patterns are splashing their way across garments this season. Of those garments, my hands-down favorites are the cute, semi-dressy shorts in stores now. (Full disclosure: I have a bit of a shorts addiction, owning no less than 20 pair.) Not comfortable in shorts? Not to worry...there are just as many super chic printed pants out there that offer the same advantages as the shorts: eye-catching style and fabulous comfort.

A print with a black background makes these shorts easily transition from day to nighttime wear. Feather print shorts and top from Fab’rik Homewood

I love mixing prints and textures. This BCBG top and shorts combo at Belk at The Summit has a a bohemian vibe, but is also simple and polished. One quality I like about shorts is that they are unfussy.

Palazzo pants are back! Resist the urge to go matchy-matchy, and instead, pair printed palazzos with a neutral top. And to keep proper proportions, select a fitted or slightly cropped top (as shown with the Flying Tomato boho hippie palazzo in magenta). Image credit: shopwsw.com

Shorts with pockets? Bonus!! Heels with shorts? If your gams are game, go for it. In keeping with the summery feel, stick to open-toe styles, like sandals and wedges. Animal print shorts and flowy crop top from Fab’rik Homewood.

My affinity for printed shorts and pants is in part because I like fashion that defies predictability. When I work with clients who are style beginners, I initially teach them to "paint by the numbers," so to speak. Solid-colored wardrobe staple bottoms, paired with printed tops. But once they have that down, I offer tips and tricks to spice things up - how to mix patterns, create creative color combos, etc. Or, simply reversing the initial formula, and selecting printed bottoms and solid tops. There's something about boldly printed shorts and pants that seem slightly impractical and thus frivolously fun. As if to say, "Take THAT, boring black pants and khaki shorts!"

A great example of how to make printed britches office-appropriate: a slim-cut pant with a ladylike heel and something tailored on top. Remember, when it comes to pants length, ankle = yes! Cropped, never! Image credit: crushculdesac.com

Don’t think this trend can only be worn by the younger gals. Paired with the right elements, it can be rocked by women of any age. Image credit: gurl.com

Flat-front shorts, like these from Trina Turk at Belk at The Summit, are usually the most flattering. Only choose shorts with pleats if you have a slim middle. Some mistakenly think pleats camouflage girth, when in fact they add volume.

A question I often receive is, "Can women with pear-shaped figures wear print on the bottom?" The answer is YES. To borrow a phrase from my mentor stylist Tim Gunn, I am a "make it work" kind of girl. Dressing to flatter involves camouflaging those areas we aren't crazy about and highlighting our attributes, and while there are many tricks of the trade to achieve this, in most cases, keeping proportion in check is key. Therefore, if you are pear shaped, a slim ankle or track style printed pant, paired with a loose top may be a better bet than a loose, flowy palazzo pant. That said, I am a big fan of wearing what you love and makes you happy, so if you love the printed palazzo pants, wear 'em! Just pair with a shorter, more fitted top to avoid looking overwhelmed or tented.     

Funky, snake-print, palazzo pants from Fab’rik Homewood. What are palazzo pants anyway? Palazzos flare out evenly from the waist to the ankle, and are therefore different from bell bottoms, which are fitted until they flare out from the knee and also from gauchos, which only extend down to mid-calf length. Harem pants are yet another loose style, but they have a snug cuff around the ankles. $54 at fab’rik in Homewood

Track pants, just like the name implies, are simply gussied-up versions of what you wore to run cross country in junior high. They offer a bit more options for tops—wear tucked, untucked or half-tucked, loose or fitted. If you have wider hips or tummy trouble, you may want to pair with a blousy top that covers these areas. Fashion is all smoke and mirrors, my friends! Image credit: MichaelKors.com

Easy breezy: these silk pants by Haute Hippie in a soft floral are in a silhouette many figures can wear. Image credit: luckyshops.com

When it comes to shorts, many ask about proper length. Inseams range from 3" to full Bermuda, and your choice is a personal preference based on age, leg shape, etc. The 3" and 4" inseams are the most prevalent, but if you are more comfortable in a longer length, selecting a slim cut will keep the look current.

‘Tweens and teens can wear shorter, fitted styles. A high waist and demure top tempers the short length. Image credit: gurl.com

Remember your favorite Umbro shorts? These are the grown-up version, in cute prints on silly fabric with a comfy loose fit and drawstring or elastic waist (which, hopefully it goes without saying, is worn with an UNtucked top). Pictured: shorts by Dance & Marvel and TCEC, from Mia Moda

Simple, but chic, formula: printed short + solid-color tee. A half tuck works great with shorts, especially those with drawstrings. Image credit: lovely-pepa.com

So pick the printed britches that speak to you - floral, abstract, graphic, painterly - there is an option for everyone. Find the one that best expresses your own personal style. 

Note: this article was originally published on 5/7/15 as a guest post for StyleBluerprint

Lilly Pulitzer & Milly Collaborations Arrive at Target & Kohl's

Designer collaborations with discount stores have been all the rage for the past several years. The Lilly Pulitzer limited-edition collection for Target lands in stores early Sunday, April 19. Then on April 23, Kohl’s will debut MILLY for DesigNation, also a limited-time collection.

Target’s Lilly Pulitzer collection is huge - as in 250 pieces! - including apparel, accessories and shoes for both women and girls, along with outdoor entertaining décor, beach gear, travel accessories and home accents. Prices range from $2 to $150, with most less than $30. Some items will be sold online only, like plus-size clothing, a new and welcome offering for the brand. Along with scarves, sandals, totes and clutches, clothing choices include a palm print jumpsuit for $44; eyelet shorts, $26; palazzo pants, $28; and strapless maxi dresses, $34, and shift dresses, $38, in different prints. Check out the rather innovative webpage for the promotion, where you can "mingle" at a party of Pulitzer-decked guests via a 360 degree virtual tour. Check out the party and the Collection Lookbook here. 

Lilly Pulitzer, a Palm Beach hostess, founded the brand in 1959 after making print dresses to hide the juice stains that happened while working in her husband’s citrus grove juice stand. The dresses caught on with those in her social circle. Pulitzer died in 2013, but her iconic brand continues.

Kohl’s MILLY collection was inspired by designer Michelle Smith’s trip to Capri. Influenced by her Parisian training at Christian Dior Haute Couture, Louis Vuitton and Hermes, Smith is known for merging American sportswear with French style. 

The 71 pieces of women’s apparel feature stripes and florals, and  include conversational T-shirts, full skirts with sheer detail, feminine dresses, pencil skirts, shorts and jumpsuits in a chic but Prices range from $38 to less than $100. Browse the Milly for Kohl's offerings here.

Both collections are expected to be a hit, with sell outs in a short amount of time.

Spring Awakening

One of my favorite aspects of Spring is designers bringing color to the fashion party. While the versatile neutrals of winter - black, grey, cream - are always comforting and classic, by the time warmer weather finally rolls around, my visual senses are ready to be reawakened! And Spring 2015 has not disappointed! Hues run the gamut from the softest blush pink to the boldest orange and cobalt. Shopping in Gus Mayer today, I loved seeing all of the shades of this season represented all over the store - in shoes, cosmetics, accessories and clothing. 

Prints abound in a variety of ways - florals, abstracts, graphics, and painterly designs. Add a colorful handbag or jewelry piece for a fashion forward mix, or let your accessories pack all of the punch against a clean slate of head-to-toe white. When it comes to cosmetics, Chanel has a new collection of both delicates and bolds. I've officially traded in my vampy winter nail polish for more delicate and bright shades, so I want to try Paradisio, a super-soft icy green, and Desirio, a vibrant berry-licious pink. Sun-kissed hair and (faux) bronzed skin looks great complimented with a shimmery lip gloss. Kevin Aucoin's glosses have been a recent fave of celebs.

So now that I've got you making out your wish lists as I was today, here's some good news - Gus Mayer is offering TAX FREE shopping ALL DAY this Thursday, April 9, in conjunction with their Girl's Night Out event that evening, 4PM-8PM. In addition to the tax-free shopping, the event will feature a Style Bar showcasing the latest trends, a Color Lab at which you can discover the best way to freshen your look this Spring, and of course, hors d'oeuvres, cocktails and prizes throughout the night. Come one, come all - it's April, peeps! Spring has officially arrived! 

Calling all Fashion Campers!

Registration is now OPEN for my 8th annual ORIGINAL Fashion Camp at Brookwood Village, THE day camp for budding fashionistas aged 5-13! With various date choices throughout July, visit the official page for information on this year's fun agendas and how to register. Don't miss the chance for your mini-fashionista to attend this confidence-building camp that launched all of the others!

Activities include:
□ the ever-popular "Accessories Game" at Claire's
□ how to care for & style your tresses at Belk Salon
□ how to match & coordinate clothing pieces
□ learning the proper names for various handbag styles, shoes, sunglasses and fabric patterns
□ a sit-down lunch with etiquette lesson
□ end of day runway show

When It Comes to Accessories, Don't Paint by the Numbers

Just as I try to avoid being too "matchy-matchy," I've never been a fan of jewelry that comes as a set. This is just a personal preference, mind you, but there's something about the matching pieces that is too predictable for me…a bit too "paint by the numbers." There's no decision to be made, no creative hand to play. Alternately, when jewelry pieces are mixed, it creates a feeling that one is wearing collected pieces, thus making the overall look more interesting, and in my opinion, making the pieces themselves appear more expensive.

So I have been delighted by the trend that began several years ago of layering necklaces and stacking bracelets, as this truly presents the opportunity for custom accessorizing. This is a great example of a trend that can be interpreted in a way that fits your lifestyle, age and personal style. You can layer/stack traditional, preppy pieces or artsy/funky pieces, and everything in between. As designer Kate Spade said, "Accessories are what make an outfit just a little bit more YOU."

No where have I seen this on better display then at the recent Valentine's event at Diamonds Direct. The place was packed with individuals and couples from all walks of life, each coming in to find pieces that reflected their own personalities. The jewelry line highlighted for the evening, 
Gabriel & Co., had a variety of pieces that could be mixed and matched. (I know, because I created several custom combos!) From delicate gold necklaces that when layered give the effect of passed-down heirlooms, to hip silver shapes, some sprinkled with stones, that would make any fashionista swoon. Perhaps because I animatedly speak with my hands, and because the hands and wrists are such a visible and oft-noticed part of one's body, I am a big fan of bracelet stacks. I especially love a stack that tells a story… one bracelet a gift from a special someone, another a souvenir from a favorite destination, and so on. I have no problem mixing costume jewelry with fine pieces. (Gabriel & Co's simple, slim diamond cuff looked fab added to my own bracelets I wore to the event.) The point is to actually WEAR your jewelry - too many leave it in the safe, waiting for a special occasion! 

While watching the action at the event, it occurred to me that Diamonds Direct has truly tapped into the modern way of selling jewelry - offer gorgeous choices and let the customer customize. For it is those items that we feel reflect our personalities the best that we love the most.

ChicTip

A client with a difficult-to-fit calf recently reported back a rave review on a pair of boots to which I had directed her, so I thought I should pass along my source!  When searching for tall boots, many of my clients have issues resulting from either skinny or wide calves. Because I know the styles and brands to look for, I can often find workable pair, but when that fails, I turn to DUO BOOTS. This UK based company handcrafts each season’s unique collection of boots in up to 21 calf sizes. In addition, they have recently added shoes and ankle boots in three width fittings: narrow, standard and wide. Sophisticated, made-to-measure style with a tailored fit. Prices are much more reasonable than you would expect, with free shipping worldwide. New customers receive 15% off.

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Even Fashionistas Get the Blues

As "wardrobe prepared" as I like to think I am, that does not immunize me from the occasional malfunction. Just yesterday I was expressing love for my "travel boots," my oh-so-comfy tall waxed leather Clarks (not the sexiest brand, but a guilty pleasure of more than one in the fashion biz) that have pounded the pavement of many a city, this week the streets of Chicago. Had I followed the advice I would have given a client, I would have had said boots preemptively repaired at the beginning of winter when I realized the zipper of one was a bit sticky. But instead, as I slipped on the right boot this morning...you got it, the zipper gave out. Unlike some wardrobe malfunctions that can be temporarily repaired with a bit of creative rigging, there was no fixing this baby. I always carry a few safety pins, which come in handy for a broken bra strap or snagged hem, but 2 pins wasn't going to do the trick here.

Because I like to pack light, the only other pair of shoes that traveled with me were my suede stiletto platform booties - perfect with a sweater dress and tights for dinner out, but not so much with my BCBG skinny pants and heavy Burberry sweater for a day during which I would surely log 16,000+ steps on my Jawbone...not to mention the risk of unsightly frostbite on my ankles.

So what's a girl ready to hit the streets of Chicago to do? I'm proud to report I solved my issue within 30 minutes, here's how:

1. After changing my brunch reservation via Open Table to give me a cushion of an additional 30 minutes, I Googled Clarks, finding there was one only 3 blocks away (the benefit of staying in a hotel on the Magnificent Mile).

2. I fastened my boot together with the 2 safety pins I had, not winning any beauty contests, but improvising enough to get me 3 blocks. (If only I had about 100+ more, I could've resurrected the vibe of Elizabeth Hurley's infamous 1994 Versace dress.) 

3. Walking out of the hotel, I telephoned Clarks to alert them of my dilemma, asking salesperson Jake to pull every similar black boot in my size (for travel boots, I always buy a 1/2 size larger to accommodate a full gel insert) and set aside for me.

4. Arriving at Clarks a mere 10 minutes later, Jake was still setting out options, but in looking at the styles already before me, my choice was clear. I had already decided my skilled cobbler back home could indeed replace my zipper, so I knew I didn't want to get a second pair exactly like them. Therefore, I eliminated those styles. As for the others: wedge boots - got 'em, laced boots - 'got em. The only style not represented in my closet were the moto mid-boots that were the first I spied among the choices. Add to that the durable lug sole and waxed leather finish, not to mention the 50% off price...sold!

5. After grabbing my gel insoles from my old boots and inserting them into the new (since my insoles were already molded to my foot, this took out any worry of having to "break in" the new boots), I popped the old boots into the box of the new boots and handed them to Jake, who was going to ship them back to Birmingham.

I was in the store barely more than 10 minutes, thus still made my brunch reservation in River North. Today was a day I was able to demonstrate my motto (borrowed from mentor Tim Gunn), "Make it work!"