Lots of Luxe

25Feb

Pants During the Pandemic

February 25, 2021 Lots of Luxe

It’s time to get dressed up again!

Real pants have literally been closeted since 2020, but pants are making a comeback in 2021. Since the onset of the pandemic, you’ve probably been living in leggings, sweatpants, or yoga pants daily, thinking, “will I ever wear dress pants or jeans again?”

If you look back into time, the historical evolution of fashion during global hardships has been quite interesting. After WWI, women began to wear pants when they were called to enter the workforce. After the Spanish Flu Pandemic of 1918, began the Roaring 20s, which, was an iconic, liberating era in fashion. Now, we can relate to the flappers who just wanted to dress to the nines for a decadent night on the town after a period of being homebound!

Loungewear is our new normal, but what if we started getting dressed up again? Perhaps we’d feel better, more ourselves, or more productive.

Now, I don’t mean wearing anything uncomfortable at home. I’m talking about comfortable pants or denim that you look good in and feel good in.

Getting dressed and putting on real pants might make Zoom calls at home feel more professional and productive.
Getting dressed and feeling good can boost your spirits.
Wearing pants instead of leggings to the grocery store might promote a sense of normalcy.

The good news is, there are tons of comfy, soft pants that you can wear during the pandemic and start feeling really great! The following can be dressed up or kept casual. Pair these with cozy sweaters, chic blouses, or basic tees.

Satin Pants

Luxurious-feeling satin pants are perfect for staying home or going out. Comfortable, soft, and trendy, satin pants can be worn casually or jazzed up. Choose a pair with ankle ties so you can show off your footwear, too.

Stretchy Denim

Denim that stretches is the best of both worlds: the classic look of denim and the forgiving comfort of pants that stretch. Stretchy denim is one of the best ways to find jeans that fit like a glove, too. The stretchy material is perfect for cinching your waist and molding to your body while remaining suitable for staying home on the couch.

Pull-On Stretch Pants

Upgrade your yoga pants with pull-on stretch pants! Sleek stretch pants look professional, not to mention slimming, and you won’t be trading in any comfort. Look perfectly polished while you stay totally cozy.

Sleek Leggings

Leggings that look like pants are a chic way to take your quarantine look up a notch while remaining incredibly comfortable. These leggings are a classic wardrobe staple for at home or in the office.

Personal Styling For Busy Women

Have you neglected yourself lately? Busy women like you are struggling to juggle everything right now. Working from home, keeping up with the kids’ online schooling, and trying to create a balance while your family is largely stuck at home.

We take a backseat often, I know. But, there’s a way to indulge yourself in a beautiful wardrobe that makes you feel good without any compromise of time or energy.

The stylists at Lots of Luxe are here to help make that happen for you and with ease. Whether you choose to shop online or make a one-on-one virtual personal styling appointment, we’re available with style advice to ensure you get only what you need, what fits your personal style, and your budget.

Making yourself a priority has never been easier or more accessible with Lots of Luxe.

03Feb

Fashion Trends that Can’t be Ignored

February 3, 2021 Lots of Luxe

We love fashion and if you love fashion there is always interest and curiosity around the latest fashion trends. Here at Lots of Luxe, we like to focus on wearable trends. Trends that make sense for our personal style and wardrobe. In this blog post, we’re sharing some lovely fashion trends that are wearable and perfect for these early months of 2021.

Structured Bags

Structured handbags, specifically top-handle bags are trending. Elegant, polished structured bags add a touch of refinement to any of your looks. Dome satchels or ring-handled bags are a classic trend, really these don’t go out of style. For an extra fashionable touch, tie a delicate silk scarf to your structured bag and nail two trends at once.

Silky Scarves

Silk scarves, bandanas, and wraps are one chic trend. Use them however you wish, in your hair, around your handbag, or around your neck. Beautiful neutrals look wonderful when paired with a patterned scarf or wrap.

Chunky Chokers

If you love the look of chunky jewelry, you can find it everywhere now. Chunky necklaces, chokers, and earrings, especially gold, are very big. Chunky chains can give any outfit an edge, and chains can be incorporated into your look several different ways. If statement necklaces aren’t your thing, you can enjoy this trend by wearing a chain belt or even a chain-embellished handbag.

Elegant Elbow-Length Gloves

Nothing exudes elegance more than elbow-length, or “opera” gloves. If you love this trend and have been just dying to break out your fanciest pair, these are hot! Many fashion trends this year have been “borrowed” from decades past, including this comeback. If you happen to be attending a formal event (with social distancing built in, of course), opera gloves can be paired with a stately dress.

Riding Boots

It’s time to break out the boots! Playing into the western inspiration trends that we saw in the fall collections are riding boots. Boots of all kinds are a welcome fall and winter trend for many of us. This year, relatively flat-heeled, up to the knee boots are very popular. This looks sharp with a pair of skinny jeans or leggings. But, really, wear any of your favorite boots, you just can’t go wrong with a classic pair of boots.

Western-Inspired Accents

Along with riding boots, which have really turned into a fall/winter staple, other equestrian-inspired looks seem to be everywhere. You’ll see western-influenced belts, hats, and boots everywhere. From brimmed hats to fancy belt buckles to fringe, this trend can be one to add to your already classic neutrals.

Slim-Silhouette Sunglasses

Tiny sunglasses are everywhere right now, thanks to many models and celebrities bringing in the trend. Thin oval, rectangle, and cat-eye lenses are options if you want to try out this trend. Of course, if you don’t think thin frames suit your face, stick with the sunglasses you love.

Statement Earrings

Bold statement earrings are big, as well. If small, dainty studs are more your thing, don’t be afraid to try chunkier dangles. You’ll tend to see a lot of oversized pearls and gems in many statement earrings now and into the new year. Any kind of statement jewelry can really make an outfit pop.

Simple Suits

Let it be simple! Sometimes, the most stunning looks are the most simple. Chic suit basics are classic and always in style. Mix and match neutral polished blazers, collared shirts, turtlenecks, and bottoms for easy outfit options. Along with the simple suit trend, is to wear a tonal (solid color from head-to-toe) simple suit. Tonal dressing doesn’t mean all pieces have to be the exact same color, but they do need to be in the same “color family” and agreeable together. Check out what all the former FLOTUS wore to President Biden’s inauguration. Simple (except for current FLOTUS) tonal suiting.

Polished Patterns

To add some flair to your camel, cream, ivory, or black fall neutrals, add some of these season’s edgy patterns. Mixing your dreamy neutrals with classic tweed, tortoise, jacquard, or even animal print is a no-fail look that is always in style.

Busy Women Can Stay Up-To-Date on Trends, Too

Trendy clothes are fun and they can be a way to experiment with new looks.

If you would like to incorporate trending pieces into your wardrobe each season, the best way to stay up to date without all the fuss is to get a personal stylist on your side.

Keep your wardrobe fresh while staying as trendy or as classic as you like. Personal styling is all about you and your wardrobe wishes. Want to see how it works? Get in touch with a stylist to be in the know!

12Jan

Pantone’s Colors of the Year are Illuminating 2021

January 12, 2021 Lots of Luxe

Each year, Pantone chooses a color to represent the year’s upcoming trends in fashion, art, home décor, and the like. In December, Pantone chose two colors for the year 2021. After the miserable 2020 year we all experienced, I think we can all agree that we are hoping 2021 will be a brighter one. Pantone thought the same thing; therefore, they came up with 2 colors of the year. One to represent 2020 and one to represent 2021.

For 2021, Pantone picked the two colors of…Ultimate Gray and Illuminating.

Most view the color gray as a gloomy color, therefore Pantone chose Ultimate Gray, to represent the dismal 2020 that we just survived. Ultimate Gray is a neutral gray, smack dab in the middle of the gray shade spectrum. It’s not a dark gray, nor is it a light gray, but a neutral that can stand on its own or complement a brighter color. And to represent 2021, Pantone selected Illuminating, a funky, bright, happy yellow. Ultimate Gray and Illuminating can be paired to create a stunning color combination. Pantone rarely picks two colors of the year, but in 2021 we’re getting a 2-for-1 deal.

Gray and yellow are complementary soulmates, the kind of colors that match so well. The colors are better together than they are apart. Gray is sleek and formal, while bright yellow is eye-catching and vibrant. Here’s how to flawlessly wear Pantone’s Colors of the Year.

How to Wear Ultimate Gray

Gray is a neutral favorite. If your skin has cool undertones, nearly every shade of gray will flatter you. If you have warm undertones, be sure that Ultimate Gray doesn’t wash you out. But the good news is everyone can add Ultimate Gray to their wardrobe and look great. If you’re concerned about the color making your skin tone look dull, try gray pants instead of a top. Or add gray accessories.

Pair gray with other neutrals like black, white, or even nude. Monochromatic gray works well if you want to wear different shades of gray at the same time. Gray alone can seem a little dull, so if you desire pops of color, jewel tones look incredibly elegant with gray. Pair gray with royal blue, ruby, or striking purple. For more variety, you can also add different textures or bold prints to a gray outfit.

How to Wear Illuminating

Bright yellow is one of the most cheery colors, and it will help you get noticed! Bright yellow looks best on those with medium, olive, or dark complexions. Women with dark hair look especially good in bright yellow due to the contrasting colors. However, everyone can wear Illuminating if it’s done right! Even if you’re too shy to add bright yellow to your wardrobe, a vibrant yellow accessory will do the trick. Add a yellow bag, shoes, or accessories to brighten up your look.

How to Wear Ultimate Gray and Illuminating

Gray and yellow are often seen in home interiors, creating a fresh mix of colors that brighten up a room. In clothing, the pair are rarely put together. However, gray and yellow can be tastefully paired as they are a match made in heaven. Gray neutrals are a great start, and then we can add mood-boosting yellow into the mix with a yellow blazer, cardigan, shoes, or a statement necklace. If you have a yellow sundress or top, add gray for a complementary look. It’s that easy! Don’t be afraid to try this color combo as it’s sure to get noticed!

You’re Your Own Best Fashion Stylist

Women like you know what they want and what works for them. You already know what your preferences are and how your wardrobe should fit your lifestyle.

When it comes to finding assistance to build your dream wardrobe, finding a personal shopper, or a curated clothing box, you probably know what you want out of it. You’ll look for and find a brand that saves money, saves time, and offers the highest-quality clothing to fit your lifestyle.

Even during the pandemic, Lots of Luxe offers the guidance you want for your wardrobe and styling needs. You’ll be happy to know that when you need it, virtual consultations are always available.

23Dec

How to Wear a White Shirt

December 23, 2020 Lots of Luxe

Create Dozens of Outfits with this Versatile Closet Essential

Let’s talk about one of the greatest wardrobe-essentials. A classic, chic piece that every woman needs (at least one of) in her wardrobe. Perhaps the most versatile article of clothing you could own.

The white shirt.

A white shirt can go from jeans and sneaker pairings while running errands to a stylish night out when paired with black leather pants and heels. The same crisp white shirt can be paired with work pants or casual denim. White shirts can truly adapt in any situation, so I have to say that I recommend every woman has at least one white shirt she loves, if not more!

Here’s how to rock this wardrobe staple at work, date night, and beyond.

How to Wear a White Shirt For Work

I can’t begin these work outfit suggestions without noting a crisp white button-down and a blazer is endlessly chic and always in style.

For work, wear a white shirt with a pants suit, a blazer, and jeans, or with a pencil or a pleated skirt. Wearing a white shirt that peeks out from a sweater or vest is also clean-cut and classic. Collared white shirts are perfect for work, but of course, several styles can easily be worn in a professional setting. White shirts are classic, go with truly anything, and look immediately professional. The greatest thing is, if you buy white shirts for the office, they can work no matter the season. You’ll have a tried and true staple for creating polished work outfits.

Add polished accessories to complete your look.

How to Wear a White Shirt For a Night Out

The chameleon of clothing can go from a chic work outfit to something perfect for a night out.

Oversized white button-downs or longer white tunics can be paired with leggings or skinny jeans, with your choice of shoes. You can get creative with a white shirt by tying it at the waist or belting it. White shirts can even be worn over a slip dress or maxi dress.

Fitted white shirts can be tucked into jeans or pants for a more polished look. Of course, in the colder months, white shirts are great for layering.

Don’t forget to play with accessories. The right hat or statement necklace can completely transform an outfit.

How to Wear a White Shirt While Traveling

Travel is on hold for now, but it’s good to remember that white shirts are a traveler’s best friend. Packing a few white shirts can make it easy to create more outfits while packing less.

You can wear a white shirt with shorts and slip-on sneakers. Long white shirts can be used as a bathing suit coverup while on the beach or by the pool. Or, try wearing one with a maxi skirt.

If you’re headed to a colder vacation spot, white shirts are great layered or under sweaters. White shirts can be buttoned over a tank top or t-shirt, or worn with a sleeveless dress.

White shirtdresses are versatile and can be dressed up or down on vacation.

When choosing white shirts for travel, knits are a great wrinkle-free choice, as are no-iron white shirts. Banish wrinkles with steaming, and you’re good to go!

Need Help With Finding More Closet Essentials?

Closet versatility is a must for any busy woman. When your closet is versatile, you can easily mix and match outfits effortlessly. The white shirt is a classic must-have for creating countless outfits from casual to elegant. And for travel, this is a must, so pack white shirts for many outfit creations for the next time you’re on vacation for work or play.

If you’re wondering how you can add white shirts that flatter your figure into your wardrobe or need help creating effortless outfits, schedule a consultation at your convenience.

If you need additional help creating a wardrobe of essentials that make dressing easier, Lots of Luxe has many helpful services from personal shopping to wardrobe styling.

The last thing any woman needs is to fret over her wardrobe. Getting dressed should be one of the easiest parts of your day.

29Oct

The Art of Minimalism: The Famous Wardrobe Organization Strategy that Will “Spark Joy”

October 29, 2020 Lots of Luxe

There are so many closet organization strategies, but recently, a decluttering queen has become quite famous for introducing us to her method for a complete closet overhaul.

If you haven’t heard of the decluttering queen Marie Kondo, she is a tidying expert who has shared her method for organizing that has become a sensation.

With Marie’s method, you ask yourself “does this spark joy?” and you only keep possessions that spark joy within you.

If we apply this to our wardrobes, you will be left with only the clothes you love and wear, and everything else will go. With this method, your entire wardrobe will spark joy every day, making it easier for you to define your style and effortlessly put together outfits.

Ms. Kondo’s minimalist method called the KonMari method can bring you the confidence to organize your closet and get rid of anything that no longer serves a purpose for you.

What Does it Mean to “Spark Joy?”

According to the KonMari method, look at each piece of clothing, accessories, handbags, etc. and ask yourself, “does this [insert object here] spark joy?”

If it does spark joy, you keep it, if it doesn’t, you lovingly toss it or donate it. We can easily know what sparks joy for us, because you will be instantly aware of how much you love a certain purse or pair of shoes, just like the first day you bought them. But, if you feel indifferent, you’ll know right away.

Maybe you have dozens of items that you begrudgingly wear but they don’t spark joy, so it’s time to let them go and keep and wear only what you L-O-V-E!

It might seem daunting to look into your closet and decide to get rid of everything that doesn’t “spark joy” but if you do it, the process is easy, and afterward your entire closet will spark joy. Now, that sounds fantastic!

The Steps to Sparking Joy

When applying the KonMari method to our closets, there are some essential recommendations from the organization expert.

1. Fully Commit to the Organization Process

You might start by scheduling a day to begin your organization journey or set up an appointment with a wardrobe stylist to assist you with the hard decisions. Know that organization is refreshing and can be the start of a new you. Especially while the seasons are changing, committing to getting rid of old clothes that don’t fit can feel really rewarding.

2. Imagine Your Ideal Lifestyle When Organizing Your Wardrobe

Do you know how to define your personal style? When you begin the organization process, it’s good to have an idea in mind about the types of items you want to keep. Luckily, with the KonMari method, asking if each item sparks joy is an easy way to figure it out. When you’re done, you’ll have a closet full of clothes you absolutely love.

3. Decide What Sparks Joy

Sort through your closet and while looking at and holding each item, decide if it sparks joy. If it does, you automatically keep it, of course!

Anything that doesn’t immediately spark joy, will be kept in a separate pile. According to Marie, she recommends saying “thank you” to the unwanted item and give it away in gratitude. This can make the separation process a lot easier for many people. Have gratitude for the pieces that no longer spark joy and resell them online or donate them, bringing joy to another woman who will love them.

A third pile can be for things you are unsure about. You can go back to them and reassess your feelings about them. After you’ve made your “joy” pile and “donation” pile, it will be easier to determine how you feel about the items in the “uncertain” pile.

4.Organize By Category

Now that you have clothes that only spark joy, you can easily organize and enjoy a clutter-free closet full of the clothes that make you feel your absolute best.

Need Extra Wardrobe Help?

While Marie Kondo’s minimalist method is very helpful, you might worry about doing it alone. So, that’s where a professional wardrobe stylist can assist your organizing efforts. Everything is easier when you have an expert by your side. If you feel overwhelmed, get in touch with us today!

17Sep

The Key to Easy Outfits is Mastering Monochromatic Dressing

September 17, 2020 Lots of Luxe

Want to make dressing easier with one simple step? Try your hand at monochromatic dressing for a surprisingly stylish look with little effort.

If you struggle with getting dressed every morning, you might be tempted to try anything to change that. There is an effortless way to look chic every day, and that is using monochromatic looks.

The good news is, you probably already have plenty of outfits to start with, and you might not even know it. You might be wondering what I mean by a monochromatic look, and simply put, it’s all about wearing separates of the same color, but with different textures and tones for some flair. You might think the same color from head to toe is dull, but au contraire! Monochromatic dressing can be incredibly chic and powerful.

Here’s how to create a monochromatic look the next time you step into your closet. You might surprise yourself with how simple this is!

When picking out a monochromatic outfit, start with what you already have. Decide which colors you have most in your wardrobe. If you already organize your closet by color, you are a step ahead! After seeing what you have in the same colors, you can mix and match; creating outfits, you may not have thought to put together. You can choose seasonal colors or neutrals, whatever works for you!

White/Cream

“No White After Labor Day” rule be damned, it doesn’t exist anymore. Wearing monochromatic white or cream is done by wearing the lightest tones of white or cream at the bottom and similar hues in the same color family, be it the identical cream/white color, oatmeal, or taupe colors on the top. Wearing cream, taupe, and oatmeal colors top-to-bottom will give a monochromatic look a bit more depth.

Black

If you decide to wear monochromatic black, having all the same shade of black will elongate your silhouette, and you will appear taller and slimmer. This is also true for navy and browns. For many women, this is exciting news! But, it’s essential to add some excitement to the outfit. This can be done with different textures or delicate patterns. You can also add pops of color with a scarf or handbag.

Gray

You can definitely wear all gray (or any neutral). Gray can look classic and chic. If you want to try a monochromatic look but don’t want to try bold colors, gray is an excellent place to start. There are so many shades of gray, and silver tones can be integrated too.

Try Sticking with One Color Family

Many people might shy away from wearing a bold color from head to toe, but it can be done. Just like with all black, sticking to any one color can elongate and slim you. Monochromatic looks can be done with jewel tones, neutrals, or a “color family.” The key is to keep all your separates in the same color palette. Don’t be afraid to experiment with monochromatic looks!

Add a Pop of Color

If you want to break up a monochromatic outfit with a pop of color, you can! Adding a brightly colored accessory can make it pop. While your outfit will remain a visual relief from patterns and colors, a bright accessory can add some interest. Add a hat, handbag, or outerwear in a different color than your outfit. A great necklace or bracelet and earrings with color can be a great way to add that pop-of-color, too.

Welcome a Stylist’s Opinion

If you need an opinion or want a wardrobe stylist to help you create a monochromatic look (or any look), we are available. If you aren’t sure about a particular look, a second opinion from an expert eye is helpful. If dressing is a struggle, we have so many solutions available, from wardrobe styling to personal shopping to a Box of Luxe. If you want to see how it works, reach out for a consultation. See you soon!

27Aug

Size Isn’t Standard

August 27, 2020 Lots of Luxe

Body Positive Changes to Finding Clothes that Fit

Women have cursed their size for decades. Some decades have been worse on us than others (think the gaunt models of the 90s when anything more than super thin was out), and thankfully we’ve made some progress on how we view women’s bodies. Lately, the media shows a variety of shapes, from petite to full-figured, and models are more diverse than they ever have been. Still, worrying about size is a common problem for women. If we aren’t a particular size, we feel bad.

It’s safe to say that most women have worries about their size, whether it be “comparisonitis” with other women or how personal size stacks up with the “ideals” we see in the media. There is no shortage of women who are not happy with their clothing, size or visiting the fitting rooms. I think it’s time to change that!

Here’s the thing: It’s less about your size and more about fit. Let’s emphasize a good fit over a number that comes on the tag. When women wear well-fitting clothes, they feel good about themselves, regardless of size!

Clothing size is merely a number, a measurement. It has no emphasis on how kind, funny, or astonishingly beautiful you are. Size cannot quantify your beauty and worth. Let size be just a number and focus on how you feel instead.

One thing that can help you achieve feeling good in your clothes is connecting some valuable words to your personal style. What is your truth when it comes to your style? Is it cool, posh, outrageous, iconic, luxurious, or striking?

Here’s what to ask yourself: What words do I want to attribute to my personal style?

As I write this, I am reminded just how powerful words are. Having powerful words assigned to the clothing you wear gives your personal style definition that you can rely on when putting outfits together or purchasing new items each season.

This idea is an inspiration from Brenda Kinsel, who has written about her search for the perfect sized jacket. She finally narrowed it down to a petite medium, after trying on a few sizes, saying, “And you know how I knew it was the right size for me? The standard-sized jackets felt dowdy on me. I wouldn’t have bought it. I’m a spunky, spirited kind of gal, and dowdy isn’t in my style vocabulary. When I got to the petite medium, it felt just right.”

Brenda makes an excellent point here. If your personal style is defined as “spunky,” for example, then anything “dowdy” just can’t be right for you!

Want some more tips? Here are five tips for nailing your personal style and focusing on fit, not size.

1. People notice when you look and feel good, and size is irrelevant. Size is for you (and your personal stylist) to know. Nobody else knows or cares for that matter. When you walk into a room as your-best-dressed-self, you get noticed regardless of your size. That’s why focusing on fit is so much more important. When clothes fit, you know it, and you feel good. You’ll also attract a lot of compliments. Fit is more important than any number.

2. When you wear clothes that fit, you are much more comfortable AND your confidence level immediately goes up. Comfortable fitting clothes allows you to relax, be yourself, and focus on more important things. Time spent tugging and pulling on ill-fitting clothes is time wasted. Don’t waste your time trying to fit into the clothes. Instead, concentrate on how well your clothes fit and watch how you’ll have an extra pep in your step.

3. Remember that size is often relative. Have you ever been one size in a store and a totally different size in another? Clothing sizes for women fluctuate from designer to designer. Some designers’ silhouettes might run small and others larger. Clothing size varies a lot, so don’t be so hard on yourself. If clothing size isn’t even down to a science, then it shouldn’t be fretted over! Even if you think you’re sure of your size, it’s always a good idea to take two or three sizes into the fitting room, so you can decide which fit feels best.

4. Your body changes a lot. Give yourself some credit for being a woman, first and foremost. Over the years, our bodies change, and therefore, clothing sizes change. Even if your weight has been the same for years, our bodies can suddenly hold weight in different areas, or water weight can be a culprit in tightly fitting clothes. Cut yourself some slack because this is normal, and it happens to every body. If anything doesn’t fit you anymore, it’s time to consign it or donate it! You get to buy new clothes that fit right and make you feel wonderful while another woman will get to enjoy your previously-loved clothing.

5. Fashion changes and so do sizes. That has nothing to do with you or your body. Designers change the way clothes fit and fashion trends can change the way things fit on us. Once again, find clothes that fit your body without worrying too much about the numbers.

Finding Clothes that Fit With a Personal Stylist

Finding clothes that fit can be a frustrating task for many women. But it doesn’t have to be. If you need help implementing the tips above, we’re always available. Sometimes, finding clothes that fit and make you feel great can be accomplished by using professionals, from tailors to wardrobe stylists. If you need help finding clothes that always make you feel fabulous, contact us for a consultation.

16Jul

Don’t Leave the Fitting Room Without Knowing These Rules for a Perfect Fit

July 16, 2020 Lots of Luxe

Sometimes the perfect fit can seem rather elusive. And, it doesn’t matter if you’re petite, really tall, or full-figured. All shapes and sizes of women seem to have a common problem — finding clothes that unequivocally fit. When you’ve found that perfect pair of jeans that fit like a glove, we tend to cherish them like a prized possession, and that’s how you know the perfect fit is rare!

Aside from having a wardrobe stylist who can find you the perfect fit, the following fashion secrets are your best bet for finding clothes that truly fit. If you’re shopping on your own, here’s how to ensure all of your clothes fit properly.

If you’re trying on pants…

Give yourself a little extra wiggle room when trying on pants. You should be able to put two fingers inside the waistband. The truth is…sometimes we’re bloated. Women can’t expect to measure the exact same way all the time. So, having a bit of room will ensure you’re always comfortable in your pants and you won’t have to worry about them being suddenly too tight. It’s important to keep in mind that there should be no puckering or wrinkling in the front panel of the pants, and if that’s the case, they are too tight. On the flip side, if the fabric doesn’t lie flat, especially when you sit down, the pants are too big.

You have heard me say this before, having a tailor is crucial when it comes to the proper fit. Even the best quality pants’ pockets can gap when you sit down. And, many times, pants are too long. An easy fix is having a tailor remove the pockets to create a smoother silhouette and of course hemming the pants to create the perfect length for you is also easy and a must.

If you’re trying on blazers or jackets…

The best test to see if a blazer fits perfectly is being able to give someone a big bear hug. If you can’t comfortably give someone a hug or you can’t drive comfortably with it on, your blazer is too tight. When trying on blazers, make sure they aren’t too snug by wrapping your arms around yourself. Sometimes, blazers seem to fit until we decide to button them. If you prefer an open blazer, as long as the blazer isn’t too tight across your shoulder blades, it’s okay to leave them open. If you prefer a buttoned blazer, be sure it’s not too tight in the front!

When it comes to the seams, the shoulder seams should sit right on your shoulders. If the seam is too far over it is too large and will probably look a bit sloppy. Sleeve length is a personal preference, entirely up to you. Getting blazers to fit your exact proportions can be done with alterations.

If you’re trying on jeans…

Have you ever brought five or more pairs of jeans into the dressing room with no luck? You’re not alone in this. Many women have trouble finding jeans that fit, regardless of size. Many companies use models with a specific waist to hip ratio, so it’s no wonder that most women don’t find trying on jeans easy. The trick is to find a pair of jeans that fit fairly snug, especially because most jeans are made with Spandex or Lycra these days. With the addition of Spandex or Lycra in jeans, they will maintain their shape for longer periods of time which is a plus.

Again, for an authentic fit, getting a tailor to help create the perfect jeans for your body type may be necessary. If you find a perfect brand and size for you, stick with it and let your tailor make them perfect!

If you’re trying on button-up-the-front blouses…

With button-up blouse, the seams should lie flat, and be sure there is no gap between the buttons, a common fit issue with large-busted women. Button-ups, with a little stretch to them, tend to look better and provide a better fit. If the blouse is flattering but you still have some gaps between the buttons, a tailor can add hook and eye closures to help fix that. The length of a blouse’s cuffs should lay just below your wrists, just enough to peek out from a blazer. If there is extra fabric that reaches down to your hands, then getting the length shortened is recommended.

Be sure that the area of the blouse that covers your hips isn’t too tight or doesn’t ride up as you walk. Stroll around the dressing room to make sure.

In addition to jackets, make sure your blouses and your knit tops fit in the shoulders. Only blouses and tops with inset shoulder seams will need to sit right where your arm and shoulder meet. This is a location that you will want to fit first. Once the top fits you in the shoulders, you may need to tailor the sides or bust area. If your top has another shoulder design such as a drop-sleeve, ragland sleeve, or dolman sleeve where the shoulder seam sits off the shoulder, then the shoulder fit is not an issue.

If you’re trying on skirts…

Know your body type and based on this know which skirt silhouette looks the best on you. Is it a straight, pencil/pegged, A-line, or a fit and flared skirt shape? Like pants, pockets should not pull open, you should not have any puckering or “whiskers” across the front and no “cupping under” in the hips. What is “cupping under?” If I said, “bubble butt,” would that help? In other words, you don’t want a skirt that’s too tight across your hips.

If you are a woman whose waist is smaller than your hips, get the size that best fits your largest point. In this case, your hips. Then you may need the waist nipped in a bit.

If you have the opposite issue, your waist is larger than your hips, then you will want to purchase the size that fits your waist the best. You may need to have the sides of the skirt “pegged-in.” This is when the sides of a skirt tapers in. This is easily remedied by your tailor taking the back center-seam in, giving the skirt a tapered silhouette. It makes all the difference in the world.

Knowing which silhouettes fit your body type the best, will help you eliminate additional alterations.

In addition to knowing which skirt shapes look best on you, you should also learn the various lengths you should wear your skirts.

If you’re trying on dresses…

Dresses can be a hard fit for a lot of women. If you are the same size on the top and bottom, you’re in luck. I recommend you use the same tips mentioned above for blouses and skirts when shopping for dresses.

A couple of additional tips for dresses…

If you’re trying on an empire waist, be sure it doesn’t sit too high on your bust because tailors might not be able to fix this. If the bust line does not look right, the dress isn’t for you!
Be aware that dresses without structured waistlines flatter most figures.
You can easily spot-check if a dress is going to fit by how the shoulders fit. The width of the hanger should be the width of the shoulders of the dress.

A simple way to always make sure your clothes fit…

If you’d rather not go it alone, a wardrobe stylist is the easiest way to get the look you want with the least amount of effort. One of the greatest benefits of a wardrobe stylist is that we are trained in the area of measure and proper fit, meaning you get a fabulous fit, every time.

Fit is important. And it doesn’t have to be hard! As always, consultations are easy and I’m always here to answer questions. And, I have connections to some of the best tailors in town.

18Jun

A Closet Love Affair: How to Love Every Piece of Clothing in Your Closet

June 18, 2020 Lots of Luxe

Do you have that feeling that you have nothing to wear but your closet is jam-packed with clothes? That feeling comes from not loving everything you have. It’s probably safe to say that most of your clothes aren’t your favorite. There are ways to turn that around and finally know what it feels like to love stepping into your closet to pick out an outfit.

We all know that incredible feeling when we put on a really special outfit. When you try it on and it’s perfect. You get so excited to wear it out for the first time. When you do, you feel stunning and attract tons of compliments.

Imagine having that feeling every day?

It’s so important to adore every piece of clothing in your closet. When you love everything in your closet, getting dressed is a breeze. Everything fits, you feel great in everything, and outfits are easy to create. You will never feel like you have nothing to wear when you love everything!

It’s time to say goodbye to anything that’s “just okay.” Life’s too short to wear anything that doesn’t make you feel great.

Here’s a quick guide to getting the wardrobe you want by creating a closet that you love.

Take a minimalistic approach

First things first: starting a wardrobe of all lovely things doesn’t start with a shopping spree, it starts with a purge. If you’re on a journey to love every piece of clothing in your closet, you’re about to learn that you probably love only a fraction of the things you currently have. It sounds almost awful to have fewer clothes. Who would want less?! But, here’s the thing: It’s more about quality over quantity. It doesn’t mean you’ll have less than you need or want, but it’s about having less clutter and fewer pieces of clothing that you don’t absolutely love. When you embrace the art of minimalism, you will only invest in pieces you love and get rid of anything that “doesn’t spark joy”, as Marie Kondo would say.

So begin taking inventory of what you have and get serious about donating or tossing anything that just isn’t quite right. If it’s old, worn-out, the wrong color, doesn’t fit (or flatter) it goes!, And don’t hold onto things out of guilt. Just because you spent money on an item and maybe didn’t wear it, doesn’t mean you have to keep it. Donations are a great way to not feel that guilt! When purging, remember, if you don’t love it, you won’t wear it.

Ponder your daily needs

It’s important to create a wardrobe that caters to your lifestyle. A practical, sustainable closet can be yours when you think about who you are, what you do, and what your wardrobe goals are. Where you live and what you do are definitely two determining factors when it comes to creating the perfect daily wardrobe with pieces that you love. Being realistic about your lifestyle can help you determine what to pack your closet with. Ruthlessly get rid of things that don’t fit, anything that doesn’t suit your lifestyle, and anything you don’t love.

When everything in your wardrobe fits your lifestyle, it’s easy to love everything! If your wardrobe is cluttered with blazers and pantsuits that you haven’t worn in years because you currently work from home, maybe it’s time to purge! If you don’t wear it, make room for what you’ll love and wear all the time.

The quickest way to a closet love affair…

What’s the secret to loving your closet? It’s having a personal stylist. If you’re feeling ambivalent about your wardrobe, it’s time to change that! That’s where a personal shopper and wardrobe stylist comes in.

A personal shopper takes the guesswork out of picking out clothes you’ll love. With a personal shopper and a wardrobe stylist, you can get the assistance you need to purge anything you don’t love, and only keep everything that suits your lifestyle, plus you can:

Pick a color palette, which makes creating flattering outfits so simple.
Define your personal style, which boosts your confidence and individuality.
Organize what you already have, toss what needs to go, and fill in the blanks you’ve been missing.

You’ll save time, save money, and learn how you can maintain a closet full of clothes you absolutely love. Life is simpler when you don’t have to worry about what to wear.

If you’re ready to love everything in your closet, schedule a consultation to learn more about working with a personal wardrobe stylist. We’re ready to help you love everything in your closet.

28May

What’s Your Power Color?

May 28, 2020 Lots of Luxe

Colors have the power to make us feel emotions, and it’s truly fascinating!

There is psychology in how we perceive colors and it’s used everywhere, from interior design to advertising, and yes, you can use it to your advantage in how you dress! It’s true, colors can affect our spending habits, appetite, stress level, and more.

So, the next time you dress, imagine the feelings you will provoke when you step out into the world. I encourage you to find a power color or two!

Finding your signature power color can help you establish your personal style, increase confidence, and help you influence how others see you personally or professionally.

While some say that black makes them feel powerful, sophisticated, confident and the like, this blog will steer away from all neutrals. Neutrals like black won’t stand out in a crowd and finding your power color is definitely about confidently standing out, so I will specifically focus on bright colors.

Red

Wear red if you want to feel: Passionate, lively, ambitious, sexy, motivated, or in charge.

This ultimate power color stimulates emotions like strength, determination, and desire. Red is associated with love, energy, passion, and action. Some people shy away from red because it’s a color that can’t go unnoticed! Red is such a powerful color that the sight of it raises blood pressure, increases the metabolism, and boosts breathing rates.

Not only does red automatically put you in the spotlight, but it also looks good on everyone. Red is a universally flattering color, regardless of skin tone or hair color. So, if you don’t frequently experiment with wearing red, try it out for yourself.

Power it up: Red is one of a few colors that stands on its own and doesn’t need any help! If you want to wear it as a power color go for crimson, ruby, or cherry red, instead of something muted like burgundy. If you don’t usually rock red, try just some red accessories or red lipstick to get noticed.

Blue

Wear blue if you want to feel: Confident, wise, relaxed, smart, stable, or sincere.

Blue is the power color of corporate America because it’s linked to stability, intellect, precision, and leadership. It’s often named as the best color to wear to an interview, as it’s a sign of sincerity and devotion. Blue is associated with productivity and is likely to be used to decorate offices and studies. This color is also calming and steady. The sky and ocean are blue, which we usually connect with tranquility.

Wearing blue is non-threatening, yet it kindles feelings of someone who is a leader. Blue is the color to wear if you want to position yourself as an authority and be someone that people trust. It’s reliable, secure, and a sign of high intelligence.

Power it up: Wear royal blue, electric blue, or sapphire. While light blue is associated with peace, health, and softness, deep blues as a power color provoke influence and integrity.

Pink

Wear pink if you want to feel: Energetic, playful, feminine, compassionate, or hopeful.

Pink as a power color is positive and bright. In color psychology, pink is a sign of hope, love, and tenderness. Pink is seen as the most feminine color, and it’s almost impossible to not feel girly while wearing it, which is why it’s most often used for women’s events and charities.

Wearing pink brings on feelings of warmth, excitement, and energy. The color is cheery and has youthful vibes. When you want to feel vibrant, pink is the way to go!

Power it up: Choose brighter pinks like hot pink or magenta to wear pink as a power color, as light pinks are soft and nurturing. If pink isn’t a color you typically wear, balance this super feminine hue with charcoal or other dark colors.

Yellow

Wear yellow if you want to feel: Optimistic, happy, positive, or cheerful.

Is there a happier color than yellow? Yellow is the color of sunshine, the color we associate with fun, cheerfulness, and positivity. Yellow stands out from a crowd, much like red does, and it’s one color that can be seen from a distance, which is why taxis and buses are often yellow.

As a power color, yellow is received warmly by others and you’ll be seen in a positive light. Yellow increases mental activity, activates memory, encourages conversation, and builds confidence.

Power it up: Wear bright yellow tones, that signify the positives of yellow like clarity, confidence, and energy because the psychology of dull yellows can be seen as caution or sickness.

Purple

Wear purple if you want to feel: Luxurious, ambitious, regal, wise, or imaginative.

The psychology of purple combines fiery red with calm blue, and purple is somewhere in between. Often associated with royalty, purple elicits feelings of dignity and grandeur. Purple also inspires the imagination, deeper thoughts, spirituality, and fulfillment.

Wearing purple will affect the mind and body with uplifting emotions and introspection. As a power color, purple is both balancing and intense. Purple is the color of imagination and creativity.

Power it up: Purple is the kind of color that any shade of it can be a power color. Purple is almost always eye-catching, from deep gem hues to light purple. Light purples like lavender are rare in nature and also much rarer in clothing versus, something like light pink. Lavender is perceived as graceful, elegant, and can be used to identify wealth.

Power Up Your Closet with Color

Feeling powerful is a personal thing so I can’t say there is just one color that will do this for you, it’s your choice! We all have a color preference and feeling powerful will be affected by our confidence level and how good we feel in our clothes.

I hope you find your power color; wear it, feel it, own it!

Want to learn more? Need help finding your authentic style? That’s what I’m here for. From wardrobe styling to personal shopping, I can help with it all. Get started by contacting me today!

Lots of Luxe

Body Positive Changes to Finding Clothes that Fit

Finding Clothes that Fit With a Personal Stylist

Join Our Team

Stay Connected

Shopping for a special occasion?

Contact Us