Dinner plans, check. Appropriate manly-yet-romantic gift for the man you love, check. Candles and music for the...ahem...after party, check. But the day of love is approaching and you haven’t answered the million dollar question: What are you going to wear!? Here are some classy suggestions for outfits sure to make his heart beat a little faster:
This floral sheath from Aqua hugs you in all the right places. It is sure to brighten up any evening outing. And since it’s on sale for $75.60, the price is right to buy now for V-day and wear through spring.
Keeping your Valentine’s day low-key? Or just not the type to dress up? Then I recommend wearing your favorite love story. From the romantic Great Gatsby to the sensual Lolita, Out of Print clothing carries a variety of T-shirts, fleece, and totes featuring famous book covers. Wear one of these T-shirts under a blazer and pair with high-heels or boots for a casual look that is timelessly chic.
Planning a long walk on the beach? This jumpsuit is a stylish and cute way to strut on the sand. The red rose print is also very fitting for Valentine’s Day wear.
If you’re going somewhere a bit more formal, this dress by French Connection has great movement and is a fun but classic option.
These tanks by Haute Hippie are playful and perfect for V-Day. Wear with leather leggings to make a flirty statement.
These d’Orsay pumps by Jean-Michel Cazbat can be worn to work and to play. The mint and pink choices are perfect for making a V-Day outfit pop. Oh, and that back detail – walking sex!
I am not really a Hello Kitty kind of girl. But even I have to admit these heart-print Hello Kitty pumps I found on JustFab.com are quite cute.
Going somewhere glitzy? If you’re visiting a local hot spot or going dancing, these glittery sandals by Kate Spade will have you standing out and feeling good.
If your taste is edgier or you are looking to bundle up by wearing some cute booties, these studs are the perfect mate. The toes are capped with spikes and crystals, and the boots come in red or black. Who doesn’t love a hot shoe on sale? For only $70 you can have a trendy boot to wear with a LBD or some great skinny slacks.
This studded heart bag will win yours over. And for $48 this deal is no heart (or bank) breaker.
Jacquie Aiche shows us how to show our love: by wearing it on our ears. The ear cuff is a new, trendy way to wear jewels on the ears. I love how this piece peeks out at the top of the ear, so unexpected and fresh. 
This necklace from JustFab.com is a true gem. It has every color on it, so it can go with anything! In fact, you may want to gift yourself with this beauty come V-Day.
Don’t wait for a guy to put a ring on it. You can do that yourself. Stack and layer this cute bow ring also on (JustFab.com) for a truly pretty sight.
Whatever your plans may be for February 14, show yourself some love and indulge in a wardrobe update. Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be about just lingerie. Buy something that you will actually wear on other days of the year and that you absolutely love.
Over time, our lives and our closets can get bogged down with things from the past. As a professional stylist, I know how important it is to shed the trends of seasons past and focus on what’s hanging right in front of you. It’s a daunting task indeed, but the benefits of cleaning out your closet should inspire you to TRY IT! Imagine waking up each morning and knowing instantly what you want to wear for that very important presentation. You can go into your closet and see all that you have and you can even mix and match to create a number of fun, new and stylish outfits. If one of your New Years resolutions was to clean out your closet and step up your style in 2013, then this year will be the year that you should actually do it!
Since this is a big project, it’s important to enlist help – whether a good friend with an unbiased opinion and (of course) great fashion sense or an expert who can really see all the potential for your closet as well as suggest ideas for maximizing it.
It’s also important to make it a FUN experience – turn on some tunes, maybe pour yourself a glass of wine, and grab some snacks...this could take awhile.
Cleansing, Editing & Styling Your Closet
When I work with clients, I like to start with the items that they’re already questioning (be it the fit, cut, style, color, etc.) so we can get through those quickly. Often times, we’ll find gems in this pile around which we can create a number of new outfits. Most will likely be quickly donated.
Go through your wardrobe by category (sweaters, blouses, pants, skirts, etc.) and pull out all your items. Try them on. Inspect them. When was the last time you wore it? Why haven’t you worn it? Would you wear it now?
If it’s something you haven’t worn in a while but you feel like you would still wear it, try to create 2-3 outfits around the item right then and there. Take pictures to document the outfits. If you love your new looks, it’s a keeper. If you’re indifferent, it’s time to move on.
Make note of what you have multiples of – white tees, black cardigans, black pants, etc. Find the pieces that are the best quality, shape and condition and keep those. Donate the rest. And make a note that you want to find replacements for some of these items, but in COLOR.
Throughout the process it’s important to be ruthless. Take no prisoners! If you want to streamline your style and your morning routine, it makes no sense to keep pieces that will only confuse you as you’re getting ready. You should only own pieces you LOVE and that make you feel fabulous … even your boring black pants!
Finally, it’s time to find your old pieces a new home. If it’s a piece that you’ve had a hard time parting with because it’s good quality, designer and still in good shape but it just isn’t your style anymore, I bet there is a good friend who pops into your head who would LOVE it. Some items might also be a good fit for Ebay or a consignment store (if it’s current season, on trend and in saleable condition). Finally, I guide my clients to donate the rest to their local battered women’s shelter or Dress for Success (as opposed to Goodwill) to be sure that the clothes go to those who really need them. BONUS: you get to keep on giving well after the Holiday season is over!
If you’re anything like me, the first thing I think about when a man asks me out is, “what in the world am I going to wear?” Made Women are always fly, but the first date outfit should involve a bit more thought and effort than your everyday look-- you want to make a lasting impression!
What you wear on a first date depends on where you are going. Location, location, location. You don’t want to be in an evening gown and end up at Pink’s eating their world famous hotdogs. To avoid having you end up overdressed and quite possibly embarrassed, I have come up with a few date scenarios and outfit choices to keep you dressed appropriately for however you spend your night.
Movie/ Coffee
Although I think it’s a terrible idea to go to a movie on a first date, it happens all too often. If you fall victim to a date who can’t think of anything else to do on a first date besides catch the latest flick on the big screen, suggest grabbing coffee after so you can have an actual conversation. You know, to see if you even like the person you’re out with.
For this type of occasion, you can mix a casual pair of jeans with a blazer and a fabulous pair of heels for a polished look. Dark denim is very versatile and can be worn in the day or at night. Boyfriend jeans are also very comfortable and stylish.
Dinner Date
Ask your date what type of restaurant you’re going to so you can ensure you’ll be dressed appropriately. (Pink’s, anyone?) Every woman should already have a little black dress in her closet. You can dress it up with a pop of color in your shoes, lip color and bag. On the flipside, a red dress is a sure way to grab your date’s attention and a high slit will give you just the right amount of sex appeal while still keeping it classy. A colorful dress mixed with stocking is a fun, flirty, sophisticated look anyone will love.
Club/ Bar
I know it may be a bit unconventional to go out to a club or bar on a first date, but you should be prepared for anything these days. Getting dressed to go to the club on a first date may be a bit difficult because you don’t want to look like you’re giving the milk away for free, but you also don’t want to look like Mother Theresa. Show off your curves in a tight mini but pair it with an oversized top to create balance. If you opt for a dress, be sure to either show off your legs or top--but not both.
Remember: you only have one chance to make a first impression. You don’t want to come across as something you’re not, and trying too hard is never cute. The most important thing is to just be yourself! We all want to be comfortable, stylish, classy, fun and--of course—sexy, but please don’t overdo it. You want a man to pay attention to what you have to say….and not stare at your boobs all night.
You know that feeling you get when you first leave the salon after a great haircut? The one where you want to run into everyone you know (especially exes) or maybe go out on the town and show it off? I bet you also know the feeling of walking out with a bad haircut as well, huh? Where you want to go buy Target’s entire selection of hats or maybe call in sick for a month? Well, if you want to avoid ever having that bad feeling again you should stick to cuts that flatter your face. By basing your cut on your face shape you can find what works best for you. Here is some celebrity style inspiration to help you figure out which is the best style for your face shape:
For a round face you want to find a style that elongates and slims. A simple mid-length bob with little volume is perfect. Also, a piecey pixie cut brings focus to your eyes and cheekbones. Ginnifer Goodwin wears this look perfectly.
If you want longer hair, long layers below the chin and wispy bangs elongate the face and add flattering angels. Zooey Deschanel shows a great way to style bangs to make your face look longer and more lean.
Quick Tip: Avoid center parts; they tend to emphasize a full forehead.
For a square face it’s best to find styles that downplay the sharp angles of the jawline. Long and straight hair with feathered bangs and light layers soften square angles. Beachy waves add depth and will bring focus to the layers and not to the jaw line. This look worn by Lea Michelle softens her sharp angles.
Quick Tip: Avoid heavy bangs that accentuate the square shape.
For an oval face you want to find a style that draws attention away from the long jawline. Center parts with curved bangs shorten the length of the face and the curve of the bang brings focus to the eyes. Just look at how the deep blue of Liv Tylers eyes are brought out by the cut.
Or maybe try a shaggy bob like Emily Blunt which looks great on longer faces.
Quick Tip: Avoid lots of layers because they will overpower natural angles and make the face look long.
For a heart-shaped face you want to focus attention downward, away from a full forehead. A chin length bob like with blunt bangs does this perfectly. Christina Ricci shows us exactly how it’s done.
Also, deep, low volume side parts like the one seen here on Reese Witherspoon accentuate the cheekbones without making the look feel too top-heavy.
Quick Tip: Avoid any style that brings the focus to a bare forehead such as a center part or harsh, choppy layers.
They are as inevitable as the extra calories you will consume: holiday parties. Whether it’s an office work party, a friendsgiving, or a New Years Eve out on the town, they are in full swing as we speak. While I’m sure our resident fitness expert, Christine Kwok, can help you keep your calories in check, I am here to help you figure out what to wear.
Sparkle:
Some girls (like yours truly) really love piling on the bling for holiday parties. But for those of you who think too many sequins can be blinding, there are more classic options as well:
Wear a sequined separate if you don’t want to be overwhelmed. A skirt or top paired with solids can add just the right amount of festive. I love these two options: one is a trendy ombre and one is a classic pencil.
For those of you like me who like going bold and mixing trends, you will love this color block sequin dress. Simply throw on a blazer and pumps and you are good to go. No jewelry needed.
Good news, shoe fanatics: you can now wear your sparkle on your feet! If you work in a conservative office environment, simply change into these heels after 5 o’clock and head out, ready to party.
Shine:
A great alternative (or addition) to any sparkle is a spot of shine. Look to textures to pair with any piece, be it patterns or basics.
This is your classic blazer, except it has a super slick collar done in leather. Wear it with literally anything. Think: the leather jacket, gone formal.
Brocade is trending right now. That means great patterns with great shine. I love the way this shows up on a pant; it’s just the right amount of something special without going overboard.
A skirt or dress in any metallic will be the perfect pick for a party. I like this skirt from ASOS because you can wear it with a strapless bodice or a long sleeved blouse, depending on how flirty you want to look.
Feathers:
Everyone is flocking to the trend of attaching plumes to everything for a festive and flirty look. Give this a try:
The perfect party frock. Black, so it is great for evening, and feathered for the right amount of fun. At $158 it’s extremely affordable too.
If a dress isn’t your thing, choose a fun, ombre feather skirt. This one’s affordable and can work with a blazer or collared shirt.
I am all about a feathered purse. This one from Nordstrom is so fun in red and is under $100, but it looks like it cost so much more!
I think adding feather lashes to an otherwise ordinary outfit is a fashion “do.” I would love to see someone rock these at a New Year’s party.
Sometimes something as simple as a headband can completely elevate an outfit. This feather fascinator is affordable and can be used time and time again. Opt for black or another fun color to veer away from a bridal look.
I love the idea of this bodice. Wear with a pair of skinny jeans, heels and a blazer, and you’ll have a fun, sexy ensemble.
Accessories:
Your outfit is only as good as its accents. Add these into the mix to be even more festive.
I love these tights. You can never go wrong with black tights under a skirt or dress, and the dash of rhinestone is genius.
You may not need to wear gloves the whole evening (this isn’t the 1950s) but with these crystal embellished stunners, you may want to.
If you are absolutely against buying more clothing or buying anything “sparkle motion,” you can just get a statement piece of jewelry. This necklace from Tasha Bib is only $28 and it comes in a variety of colors, so you can match it to any outfit you want to party in!
Whether you want to try a trend or stick to a classic, make sure you wear what is most comfortable for you. When you are most confident, you have the most fun. Happy Holiday dressing!
You already know how to coordinate your outfits to look like a power player, but what about your accessories? Focusing on the details can do a lot to complete the picture of a self-assured, capable business woman. Whether you’re climbing your way up the corporate ladder or hustling your way to the top as an entrepreneur, it’s important to look the part. Here are some items that can help you do just that:
Statement necklace
Don’t go unnoticed. Make a statement with a bold necklace like this one from Aldo. Made of metal but woven together in a braided design, the “Frigold” is a sure attention-getter. At only $18.00, it’s a steal!
Here’s another option for a statement necklace. While simple in design, this “Capri” necklace by True Birds draws the eye. Wear it with a button up blouse and a skirt and show them who means business.
Studs
I love catching a glimpse of sparkly studs. Tiny in size but big on classic style, these “Lubine” studs from Aldo are just plain cute. Add them to any outfit as a way to show off your style in a subtle way.
The Purse
This “East End” purse from JustFab is definitely a bag for a busy power player. The black faux leather, gold zippers and hardware demand attention. And the snakeskin pockets on the outside offer extra space for organization. The rich, deep blue lining on the inside also add to the expensive feel of this bag. But it’s actually a bargain at only $39.95, and no businesswoman should turn down a bargain!
Bangles
Like a little color? How about these bangles by Vince Camuto? Bold but sleek, they will brighten up any outfit for $78.00. Not ready to commit to so much bang in your bangles? You can opt for a smaller set for only $48.00.
Subtle and chic or big and bold, don’t forget the details when planning your next outfit for the office!
Ah, yes... We all get a little sad as the heat from the summer sun fades. But fear not, Made Women, that stunning summer wardrobe you purchased doesn’t have to sit in the closet for a whole year. Here are some easy ways to smartly transition summer staples into your fall wardrobe:
Neons & Colors
Brights were in this year, so maybe you bought neon clothes or bright jewelry. Instead of color blocking them for maximum summer impact, pair a bright with a neutral for fall perfection. I love this look:
Boot Up
Instead of wearing sandals everywhere, wear ankle boots or even your rain boots with shorter skirts and dresses.
To the Max-i
Maxi dresses are essential for summer, but you can easily work them into your fall wardrobe by throwing a jacket and scarf over them.
Layer
If you have a favorite summer tunic or short dress, you can get more wear out of it by throwing it over jeans or leggings and adding other fall accessories like a great hat. Layering is perfect for tops, too. Add a summer tank under a new fall sweater to keep warm and create visual interest.
That’s Tight
If you love the look and feel of holey jeans for summer, consider wearing tights under them for fall. Not only will your legs be warmer, but there will be a cool pop of color or a pattern underneath your denim.
Dress it Up
I love this year’s Alice + Olivia fall campaign. They feature a bunch of dresses that could be good for any season and simply added berets and boots or tights or high socks. Buy a hat and some hosiery and you can transition that favorite summer dress in an unexpected way. Here are some examples:
Going from summer to fall doesn’t mean your wardrobe has to be dull. Try these tips and add some longevity to the summer items you love.
With new online shopping sites popping up every other day, it’s hard to decide which is worth your time and will provide a much needed upgrade for your closet. I recently checked out JustFab.com to see if it was bookmark-worthy and I was pleasantly surprised. The setup of the site is one you may have seen before. First, you take a “fashion personality quiz” that will determine what type of style you have. Are you more of a diva than a debutant? More boho chic than business casual? Whatever your style, once you complete the quiz you will be served up some shoe, purse and jewelry options that are handpicked by a team of style experts.
So did those experts “get” my style? They offered tons of suggestions for me but out of everything I really liked the “Power Player” tote and the “Liza” booties. I was surprised again at the quick turnaround from “add to cart” to a big box arriving at my door step.
My “Power Player” tote is bright, deep orange color with gold decorative hardware on the outside. I was impressed by the quality of the bag with its luxurious lining and substantial weight. The ostrich-embossed faux leather feels real and the removable goal chain makes it versatile. The best part? All of the compartments on the inside of the bag! A busy business woman like myself needs all the help I can get to stay organized. This will be great to take to meetings or power lunches.
Always in need of great flats for work, I was excited to try on the “Liza” booties. A casual ankle bootie, I loved the buckle detail and the two tone faux suede and leather. Comfy and cute, I think they will be a great addition to my shoe collection that I can wear with leggings or shorts.
Overall I was pleased with JustFab.com's easy sign up, style profile and quick delivery time. I think the big win here are their purse options for fall 2012. Have you tried JustFab.com or is there a site you like more? Tell us in the comments below!
For fashion fanatics around the globe, September kicks off a glorious season. I’m not talking about the start of fall; I’m talking about the four major Fashion Weeks in the industry.
Fashion’s Night Out traditionally kicks off the week of festivities in New York, and fell on September 6th this year. FNO began three years ago. It’s sponsored by Vogue and the CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) and is meant to fuel the economy and fashion industry alike. Stores are encouraged to stay open late, host DJs, serve cocktails and the public is encouraged to spend, spend, spend. Since several editors, designers and fashion aficionados are in New York for Fashion Week, they attend several of the FNO events.
So New York Fashion Week begins with a party and the party doesn’t really end. From the 4th through 13th of September, designers such as Max Azria, Tommy Hilfiger, Victoria Beckham, Donna Karan, Diane von Furstenberg, Marc Jacobs, Vera Wang, Perry Ellis, Oscar de la Renta, Betsey Johnson, Michael Kors, Rachel Zoe, Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein--to name a few--showcased their wares. With so many fashion powerhouses unveiling their work near and around Lincoln Center, it is overwhelming to think of the many different and dramatic Spring 2013 ready-to-wear collections. Rag & Bone collaborated with Oakley for a sportier look; Alice + Olivia showed a variety of fun and funky looks to throw on and go; while Oscar de La Renta and Marchesa dreamt up dramatic eveningwear. Oscar de La Renta was definitely my favorite. His collection was fabulous as always, dripping with crystal and flower embellishments. Since it was a spring show, the sharp turquoise and bright pinks stood out brilliantly. He was also genius to include sleek whites and creams for fans of minimal yet elegant looks.
September 14th through the 18th is London’s turn to have their designers strut their stuff. London Fashion Week included Matthew Williamson, Temperley London, Tom Ford and Burberry Prorsum, among others. Shine and color were big on the British runways. The metallic effects on Burberry and Mulberry’s pieces would sunny up any wardrobe. The color stories in the Burberry and Vivienne Westwood Red Label collections predict next spring will be another bright one. So if you are a fan of color blocking and boldly hued accessories, you have much to look forward to. My London collection of choice was Burberry by far. Christopher Bailey not only reinvents the trench coat season after season, but he has reinvented this 150 year old label as well. Burberry is far more than tartans and outerwear; it is about a new sleekness that is rich in texture and color.
Gucci kicked off Milan Fashion week, which ran from September 19th to the 24th. Other Italian shows of note were Emporio Armani, Prada, Moschino, Versace, Fendi, Pucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Missoni and Roberto Cavalli. The Milan shows portrayed a spring full of good times. Gucci articulated this through slender, colorful pieces with dramatic details such as puffed sleeves or extra flowy pant legs. Moschino showed us many stripes and prints in primary colors. Roberto Cavalli featured lacey and laser cut whites with a rockstar edge. But my personal favorites were Gucci, for its understated boldness and Dolce & Gabbana, for the opposite reason. Dolce & Gabbana’s show was full of the ornate and overdone, with stripes, color, print and lots of accessorizing. Their collection screamed summer fun. And while I would wear every piece from Gucci, I would also wear several of the pieces from D&G, which inspired me to mix print and pattern for an unexpectedly cool look. As someone who loves stripes, I loved the varying sizes and blends of stripes with big earrings and color-splattered shoes. The inspiration in these collections will fuel me for seasons to come.
In the spirit of saving the best for last, Paris rounds out the world’s fashion celebrations. Shows from September 25th to October 3rd concluded the Spring 2013 ready to wear collections. Paris, of course, features many of the names synonymous with fashion, including: Balenciaga, Balmain, Lanvin, Dior, Gaultier, Hermes, Galliano, Givenchy, Stella McCartney, Chloe, Saint Laurent, Chanel, Valentino, Alexander McQueen and Louis Vuitton. I appreciated much of the androgyny at Saint Laurent and Valentin Yudashkin. Both collections showed women in tailored, yet sexy adaptations of the suit, complete with great hats. The hippie feel to Saint Laurent, with its long maxi skirts and wide brim hats, made me yearn for a very chic and laid back spring season. Chloe has been one of my favorite fashion houses for a long time, and their latest Paris show did not disappoint. Complete with girly ruffles in all the right places and splashes of pastel among whites, this collection was very wearable for a wide range of women.
Moral of the story: the fashion world is forever evolving. The outpouring of social media chatter has made it that much easier to feel like you have a front row seat at many of these shows. Take away the trends and inspiration you enjoyed from these runway reviews and incorporate it into your style to get a head start on Spring fashion.
You heat it, you strip it, you dye it, you cut it. Every day your hair goes through major trauma. So what are the staples that you use to protect and care for your hair all year long? We asked our staff (since they always look so good) what their must-have hair care products are. No matter what your hair type, the products we use might be right for you too. Take a look:
Redken Smooth Down Butter Treatment: My hair is relaxed and I've been trying to grow it out. Redken allows me to easily comb my hair. – Brook Turner
ANTI.GRAVITY by Kevin Murphy: Smells AMAZING and gives my hair great volume for two to three days! Even in humidity. – Lindsey Jones
I really like Redken Clear Moisture shampoo and conditioner. I have very thick, naturally straight hair and it makes it so soft and light without adding the static most moisturizing shampoos do. – Lindsey Tewell
I love Oyin Handmade products for my hair. I have super thick hair and their products keep my hair moisturized and soft. – Nailah Blades
Hai Flat Iron. It always makes my hair smooth and instantly fixes a bad hair day. – Beth Livesay
Mixed Chicks. I have really curly hair and it's the only thing that can tame the frizz but keep my hair soft and touchable. Hard curls that lack body are not the biz. – Lindsey Day
My hair is fine and straight. I have to use conditioner, otherwise it's impossible to get a comb through it! I like Dove's line. – Amanda Szalasny
My hair is naturally kinky/curly and I style with tools that add heat, so I like Neutrogena Triple Moisture Cream Lather Shampoo because it hydrates my hair but gets it very clean. – Serena Watson
I have thin, curly/wavy hair so I need something good to define and hold curl shape. I swear by Curls Rock cream from Tigi. – Jessica Dumont
Have you tried any of the products we mentioned or know about a product you think works wonders? Tell us about your experience in the comment section below!
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