Lots of Luxe

21Apr

What to Look for in a Personal Stylist

April 21, 2022 Lots of Luxe

Some folks believe that Personal Stylists are just for people with lots of money and no time. And stylists can help those kinds of people for sure. But the truth is that anyone can benefit from the services of a stylist. And those services can actually save you money. With someone advising and guiding you to the right clothing choices and helping you build your wardrobe with quality pieces that work with everything you already have in your closet, you will avoid making mistakes on your shopping trips and thus save your hard-earned cash.

Why Consider a Personal Stylist

We all make mistakes in this arena. Impulse buying, especially at bargain prices, feels like a win, but unless the piece you buy is fantastic and really works for you and the rest of your wardrobe, the excitement is quickly gone. The thing about clothes shopping is you have to buy strategically and intentionally. Otherwise, you’ll end up with piles of items that don’t work. If you buy clothes randomly, one piece at a time, and not with your entire wardrobe in mind, you risk having an item not fitting in or matching with anything in your more extensive collection of clothes. And because of that, you’ll end up not wearing it and having wasted time and money buying it. Shopping in malls, boutiques, and even online can be time-consuming and can easily result in clothes that don’t fit, are of poor quality, and may require the dreaded returns process. A stylist will select pieces that will fit your body perfectly, as well as work with your existing wardrobe.

You don’t want a closet full of clothes that don’t align with your personal style. You want a cohesive look that you can build on. And a Personal Stylist can help you achieve that. She can help steer you toward buying an outfit rather than just one piece or purchasing items that don’t go with what is already in your closet. The stylist can also update your wardrobe every so often, so your clothes feel fresh and exciting, while also providing suggestions on how to mix and match the clothes you have. The stylist helps you invest not in trends or fads but in things that you will love and wear for years to come.

I primarily work with women who have full lives, whether they’re corporate executives, moms, leaders, or volunteers. Partnering with them over time, I create a wardrobe that works for their personal style and life. And what I offer my clients is what you’ll want to find when looking for your own Personal Stylist.

Communication Skills

A good Personal Stylist will be an exceptional communicator and offer advice on what colors look good on you and what colors look good together. You may love lavender and wear it a lot, but it might not be the best choice for your skin color. A stylist will also make recommendations on how to dress for special occasions and events, as well as what to pack for a weekend getaway or vacation. She will consider your body type, skin tone, current style, and taste when selecting items for your wardrobe. On occasion, she may help you organize your closet and assist you in letting go of pieces you don’t wear, no longer serve you, or never worked in the first place. And she will need to be an excellent communicator to do that without upsetting her client!

Skills For the Job

Educate yourself on the stylist and preview her work online or on her blog or social media and see what kind of references she has. Is her content helpful and delivered simply? Did you learn something from her you didn’t already know? If so, she might be the one. Read her reviews because they will offer clues about how it is to work with her.

My work with a new client is to get a complete understanding of her style preferences and body type and what features she likes to highlight, and those she would prefer to downplay. You, too, will want a stylist who gathers all of this information upfront before shopping with you or selecting items for your closet. A stylist must consider every aspect of her client’s style, life, and physical attributes when planning additions to her closet. Her goal is to help her clients create a cohesive wardrobe that makes getting dressed for any occasion easy.

I educate my clients on capsule dressing, the best layering techniques, how to dress as the seasons change, and how to accessorize. These services make what to wear painless, and easy and you’ll want to be sure your stylist understands all the different dressing techniques.

Compatibility

Styling is a very individual thing, and the relationship between you and your stylist should be that of a partnership. She should be someone you trust and get along with. The most important thing you’re looking for in a Personal Stylist is compatibility. As you interview and shop around, you’ll want to ask yourself, do I like her, or can I see myself having a long-term relationship with this person. Can I trust her? And, just as important, is she a good listener? It would help if you looked for someone who takes in and truly understands what you are saying, your likes and dislikes, and what you want. You don’t want someone who suggests $600 shoes when your budget stretches only to $150. The superior Personal Stylist will listen to your preferences and not try to put you in clothing that just doesn’t suit you.

Establishing a relationship with my clients is essential to our work together. This trusting relationship helps them find their own style so that everything in their closet is true to who they are, and each outfit gives her confidence in how she’s showing up each day. A good stylist will help her clients feel their best, discover their needs, spend their personal style budget wisely, bring together their look, be a good listener, and solve problems quickly.

Attention to Trends

While you don’t want to dress in an outfit held together with safety pins just because skin is now in, you still want to stay current with what’s happening in the fashion world, and a stylist should help with that. She will keep you on-trend in looks that feel fresh and of the moment but won’t bare your midriff.

Knowledge of Fit

Make sure your stylist is a fit expert. Fit is crucial to your clothes looking good on you. You can have the most beautiful jacket in the world, but if it hangs on you like a limp tea towel or is too small, that doesn’t matter. Your stylist should probably also have a relationship with a tailor who will assist in making sure you get that fabulous fit.

Fees

Because I represent several lines of designer ready-to-wear women’s clothing and work exclusively with these collections, I do not charge a fee for my expertise and guidance. However, you can expect to pay an hourly fee to work with most Personal Stylists. You can work with them regularly (i.e., on a seasonal basis) or just for specific events or occasions.

Virtual Styling

Look for a stylist who can offer you virtual styling. Styling over the internet has taken off since the COVID pandemic started, and let’s face it, online appointments give you and your stylist much more flexibility with scheduling. A stylist can run virtual appointments with you at any time that’s convenient. This way, you won’t have to wait for, as in my case with clients, in-home trunk shows.

Style Subscriptions

Boxed clothing subscriptions are an easy way to align yourself with a Personal Stylist. Several companies offer subscription-style boxes (i.e., StitchFix, Nordstrom’s Trunk Club), and these companies pair you with a stylist.

Because of the number of collections I represent, I offer what I call a Box of Luxe. This allows me to work with clients from anywhere in the States. I create a box of pre-styled looks from my collections. Clients try them on in the comfort of their homes and purchase only what they love. Returning what they don’t is easy. It’s all about convenience. And I’m happy to offer that to my clients.

If you’re interested in working with a Personal Stylist, there are four of us on the Lots of Luxe team. Let’s connect and see exactly what you’re looking for in a Stylist.

15Mar

Clothes as Semaphores

March 15, 2022 Lots of Luxe

We all know that clothes are more than clothes.

Yes, they protect you from the elements, keep you warm and dry.

But, as you also know, clothes are semaphores (apparatus to create a visual signal) for so much more. Fashion, the prevailing style of dress at any particular time, is used as messages and symbols that we all decode in an effort to understand who and what we are seeing. If you see a homeless person shuffling down the street in rags, you will interpret her differently from a woman wearing a smart, on-trend dress with hose and heels.

If a woman is carrying a (genuine) Louis Vuitton purse, it means she has a high degree of disposable income and wants to spend it on the best. A pair of jeans speaks a different but equally clear message. Casual, laid back, comfortable (except when there’s a designer label on them). A woman in pearls is seen and decoded differently than one in Goth makeup and dagger earrings. The woman with pearls is seen as a classic, traditional dresser with style. The Goth woman is seen as dark, counterculture, and a little scary.

What we choose to wear reflects how we see the world and how we want the world to see us. Whether it’s as someone cool and powerful who keeps up with all the trends, or as a street-style type who joins a march with her political beliefs emblazoned on her T-shirt.

Obviously, clothing codes are tied to historical fluctuations so what we thought was great last year now looks outdated. But the overriding power of fashion is that it is dual and opposite in nature: it symbolizes class and socio-economic status – dividing us into social groups – but it also somehow unites us because everyone, high or low, wears clothes.

Because clothing is a matter of taste and the ultimate in personal choice and is irrevocably tied to our need to express our individuality, it tells a story and it’s that story we all need to consider when we’re figuring out our own personal style. Because they are right next to our skin, clothes, faster than anything else, tell the story of who we are – or want to be.

Let’s face it, we all judge people by the way they dress, what house they live in and what car they drive. We shouldn’t, but we do it automatically, and that’s why what you wear matters. Each piece means something, and I believe it’s important to figure out what that is and what you want to say.

And color matters, too. Black speaks to minimalism and is an anti-color that gives people options. Blue is much more open, red might indicate an extrovert, and pink is the most romantic of colors on the spectrum. And of course, it’s essential to be aware of the meanings of particular colors, which vary a lot between different cultures. The late Vogue editor Diana Vreeland, for instance, once proclaimed, “Pink is the navy blue of India.”

At Lots of Luxe, our stylists can help you define and refine your personal look and ensure that what you wear will give the right impression to the right person. We can guide you on what trends work for you and help you choose clothing that truly reflects who you are. We love helping women delineate their wardrobe needs and look forward to working with you in the future.

08Feb

Spring-Summer Fashion Trends

February 8, 2022 Lots of Luxe

Ready to skip the rest of winter and plan your spring wardrobe? Your personal stylists with Lots of Luxe are here for you and ready, too!

There are a host of spring/summer trends for this year, as usual. Designers must have their say and boy did they say it, showing underwear as outerwear, the skimpiest minis known to man, crochet, cutouts to reveal midriffs, patterns, all-white ensembles, and lots and lots of color. Think neon pink and highlighter yellow. (Get out those sunglasses, ladies.)

Don’t worry. We’re not going to dress you head to toe in pink or yellow. Or suggest you wear just a jacket over your bra. Our Carlisle and Etcetera design team always works with the most wearable trends. Below are a few that we’re loving this season, and we hope you will too.

KELLY GREEN

Bright colors: orange, fuchsia, lime green, and so on, were all over the runways in Paris, New York, and London. The brighter, the better. Bold, vibrant, and a bit flashy, these hues might strike you as too much, but don’t be afraid of them. Give one a whirl.

A safe way to add color is to opt for classic Kelly green, a rich, saturated green far too luscious to ever be called “grassy” again.

Designers showed a host of different greens for spring/summer but the Kelly green sheer wrap dresses and skirts by London’s Supriya Lele were so fun and attractive. At Rejina Pyo, the green was on shirts, midi dresses, and handbags, and at Molly Goddard, on some delicate wrap-ankle ballet flats. (Kelly green can be injected into every part of an outfit.) Former Bottega Veneta designer Daniel Lee started the trend for the color a year ago, and it hasn’t abated. It’s lighthearted, cheerful, and will get you noticed. In a good way.

We have a couple of pieces in Kelly green that we think you’ll love. One is a Carlisle shirt-style full-length, belted dress GERANIUM, with a pop of color in its fuchsia moire taffeta sash. The ultimate in stylish chic, it can be worn everywhere and in several ways.

Carlisle has also given us a Henley knit sweater dress with multi-directional Ottoman ribs made in a silk-enriched Italian yarn rightly named, DELIGHT. It’s easy and comfortable to wear and we all care about that!

GINGHAM

A cheerful, warm-weather print, gingham is an old favorite and looked great on the runways in unusual applications. While the Michael Kors Collection showed an Audrey Hepburn-style, classic-shaped sundress in black and white gingham, Brandon Maxwell showed jumbo gold checks and at Carolina Herrera, gingham got glossy with shimmer and sequins.

At Carlisle, we have the most gorgeous pannier-shaped skirt in sky blue Spanish organza that anyone can wear, BELLE FLEUR. It’s appliquéd with mini-gingham flanges in a swirling rose pattern while layers of tulle and a horsehair-stiffened lining hold the dramatic shape. Teamed with a white T-shirt or blouse or a little cropped cardigan, this piece is so versatile it can go from the office to lunch and then to dinner. An elastic waistband makes it easy to wear even if you do have that tiramisu at dinner.

FLORALS

With designers focused on the renewal of classic prints, florals are here, there, and everywhere. But these are not all Laura Ashley florals. This season’s botanical graphics range from bold, big, and bright to feminine and tender. YSL did tight catsuits in oversized red roses on a bright white background. Emilia Wickstead (one of Kate Middleton’s favorite designers) offered up a belted, midi dress created in green rose-printed taffeta faille.

At Carlisle we have the POSIES dress, a polo dress in denim-colored Italian cotton poplin emblazoned with a white floral print. The ease of this dress makes it a wonder to wear. Wear it as a runaround dress or pair it over white pants as a tunic.

Then we have a tailored jacket, IN BLOOM, in a Spanish stretch cotton with a floral design in lavender, teal, and white, printed in Italy. There are matching, cropped-length pants that when paired with the jacket gives you a floral pantsuit, which are trending for spring especially if you love lots of pattern and color. You’ll find IN BLOOM in the Carlisle spring collection.

A chicer than chic Italian silk chiffon blouse with an adjustable sash belt/necktie bears a floral print that includes 10 colors. ESTELLE, also from the Carlisle spring collection, is clean and feminine and will look great with pants or a skirt.

From Etcetera, NICOLETTE is a pretty blouse in a small white and blue floral print that’s made in a European fil coupé floral jacquard. It has convertible 3/4-sleeves and, while simple, has a lot of impact.

An organza sleeveless shift dress, FIORE, has luscious floral embroidery in several colors. This knee-length pullover style has olive satin binding at the neck, armholes and hem.

The FRANCESCA skirt and blouse are spectacular together or as separates. Both are made in a soft European twill and from the spring Etcetera collection. The ebullient flower and scroll design is skillfully framed in brilliant blue.

STONE COLD NEUTRALS

In amongst all the blinding colors for spring and summer there were lots of pieces in restful white. Etcetera has slim, drapey white dress pants, TREVI, that are so stylish and swanky. Carlisle has a great looking, jacket, CHAMPIGNON, in the softest European double-faced leather. It has the storm flaps of a trench with a much shorter length, along with removable epaulets and belted sleeves that bespeak a smart, military vibe.

Carlisle’s HELENA, a beautiful cool linen-blend tunic in European floral fil coupé with a rich luster. The easy fit and drop shoulders make it an A-list dressed-up option. The matching pants are an easy pull-on fit combined with a luxe fabric for dressed-up ease. These full-length lounge pants are crafted from a European jacquard with the same elaborate placed floral devore. Paired with the blouse you have a complete neutral silhouette.

We know that so many of you love being on trend but shy away from some of those runway looks. Our designers never fail at making some of the best runway trends wearable for you and we would love to help you add a trending piece to your spring wardrobe.

That’s what we’re here for, to make creating that perfect wardrobe with you easy and fun, season after season.

01Feb

Where and How to Get Rid of Your Luxury Items

February 1, 2022 Lots of Luxe

When a year ends and a brand new one starts, there is something in the air that makes us want to start fresh in all areas of life. It’s all about releasing the old and beginning anew. One of my favorite places to purge the old is my wardrobe, and I know many of my clients agree!

If you have clothes or accessories that no longer fit or just don’t appeal to you anymore, it’s a good time to release them. Some unwanted clothing can be donated, but what can we do with luxury items that have a higher value? A good option is to sell the items and get back some of your investment (if only to put it towards new items!)

So, where can you sell used luxury items? Glad you asked! Let’s go over a few great options for selling designer items. The good news is, you have plenty of convenient choices.

1. Take luxury items to a consignment shop near you

Typically, most consignment shops require an appointment before you bring in belongings. Some shops are pickier than others and don’t accept everything you bring in. However, if you have high-end goods, the odds are they will accept them if they are in good condition. Consignment shops will offer you a percentage of the sale when an item sells, often 50/50. The only effort you pay is dropping off the items, which is easy enough. Be sure to understand the store’s contract, so you know what to expect. If your items don’t sell, some shops allow you to take them back.

2. Try out resale stores

If you don’t want to wait to get cash with consigning, you can try taking high-end clothing, shoes, or accessories to resale shops instead. Here’s how it works: You bring your clothing and you will receive cash up front, which is different from traditional consignment stores. There is a sense of convenience here because you will leave with cash without waiting or risking the shop not selling your things. Another perk of resale stores is that they aren’t seasonal. Many consignment shops will take what’s in season right now, which might leave you with items you wanted to get rid of. Generally, these stores don’t require an appointment either, but each one will operate differently.

3. Online resellers are a popular choice

Here is an option if you want control over the items you are selling. However, it does come with more work. Generally, online selling requires you to take pictures of your items along with detailed descriptions so buyers know what they are getting. You may have to interact with buyers to answer questions or concerns. These websites safely process transactions and cash will become available to you once the buyer has approved of your items.

There are both upsides and downsides to these online used clothing shops. The upsides include control of your items, pricing, and a plethora of buyers. However, online options can be more time-consuming. The time it takes to list items and ship them can be a turnoff to some. There is also a bargaining culture that you may come across if buyers are looking for a cheaper price. Lastly, many websites will take a cut of your sales, depending on the platform, but this is similar to consigning.

Some popular reselling websites are ThredUp, Poshmark, Vinted, and The RealReal. Sites like ThredUp are less time-consuming because you can just send out your designer clothing and be done with the process, but keep in mind your payout will be lower. TheRealReal is similar to a high-end consignment shop but will require a bit more effort. One positive about online used clothing shops is that you will have potentially millions of eyes on your unwanted items. You may be able to easily sell things as there are tons of buyers looking for designer clothing at a discount.

Also, keep in mind that this can take time and you might want to update your items regularly to make sure to push them to the top of people’s feeds. You want your listings to be boosted and seen in buyers’ search results.

Wardrobe Purging with Professionals in 2022

Wardrobe organization can be overwhelming, especially if you aren’t sure what to get rid of and what to keep. If you’re busy, this can seem even more like a struggle. But, with the right person to help you, your wardrobe will be refreshed and ready for a new year!

Expert opinions, fashion industry experience, and no-nonsense standards are a must for your next wardrobe overhaul. Check out wardrobe styling at Lots of Luxe to see what we’re all about and how we can be of service in the new year. I’m looking forward to hearing from you!

03Jan

Pantone Color of the Year – Very Peri

January 3, 2022 Lots of Luxe

After two years filled with unrelenting uncertainty and challenges, is optimism something we can regain? The folks at Pantone think so. Living in transitional and transformative times as we are, between isolation and normalcy, virtual and real, sameness and difference, the color authority’s cheerful color of the year for 2022 speaks to rebirth and vibrancy and adds drama to anyone’s wardrobe. Very Peri, a pulsating, purplish periwinkle blue with violet/red undertones, is the first shade that the company has ever created and encapsulates, it says, the uncertainty, cautious hopefulness and newness of our moment in which we’re all reimagining our futures and searching for a fresh start. The really good news is that the appealing springtime color is universally flattering for all skin tones because it’s a balance between cool and warm.

How to Wear Periwinkle

Periwinkle was all over the spring/summer runways in Europe (but not New York), from a short cape dress at Valentino to a long overcoat at Balenciaga, tailored pants at Saint Laurent and romantic ruffled dresses at Alberta Ferretti. It’s even showing up on bicycles, sneakers, KitchenAid mixers and sweat pants.

And yes, the color is bright, but that’s no cause for concern, even if you’re someone who usually favors neutral and muted palettes and doesn’t experiment much with color. A little of the hue goes a long way and you don’t have to wear it from head to toe. (None of us wants to look like a popsicle!) You can get a dash of periwinkle with accessories: earrings, sandals or a soft, silky scarf. And if you like the color but are unsure how to style it, simply start by pairing it with black. A textured periwinkle crochet, or popcorn-stitch cashmere sweater over some black pants looks great. (And Periwinkle also looks fabulous with jeans!) When worn with white, periwinkle dazzles. And if color is still a little too bright for you, you can always confine it to the lower half of your body and wear it as pants and skirts.

Colors That Go Best With Periwinkle

On the color wheel, yellow is the complement of violet and blue-violet which means citrus, sunflower and gold shades contrast nicely. White, salmon and dark blue look the best with periwinkle but the color also goes with pink, beige, turquoise, green, apricot and other blue hues. For shoes, try some black patent leather, silver, beige or pewter. And for a dash of glam, you could opt for a sandal style with glitter.

Help is at Hand

Of course, you are a woman who already knows what you like to wear and what works for you. And trends are just that, trends. Only you know how your wardrobe should fit your lifestyle and all the subtle details involved in getting into clothing you like – and which likes you.

When it comes to finding assistance to build the wardrobe you’ve always dreamed of, Lots of Luxe is here to help guide you through all your styling needs. We offer high quality clothing that can fit any need you may have. We look forward to working with you on what you’ll be wearing this spring/summer.

Virtual consultations are always available.

02Nov

What’s in Your Handbag Collection

November 2, 2021 Lots of Luxe

If you want to update or improve your handbag collection, you’ve landed in the right place! Every handbag collection should have something for each of your needs; even the minimalists have several bags, one (or more) for each occasion.

Let’s explore the different kinds of bags you’ll need in your wardrobe — everything from functional and practical to luxurious … and maybe a tad over-the-top.

The “Everyday” Bag

You’ll definitely need that go-to bag that you love to carry for its functionality and neutrality. The elements of a great everyday bag vary because you’ll need to tailor it to exactly what you need! Some women like to carry a small bag with essentials that effortlessly match their typical outfits, and other women need a large bag that can hold a laptop and whatever you’ll need for a busy day.

So, consider your daily needs when choosing an everyday bag. In any case, I have some recommendations.

Choose a durable bag — this bag needs to stand the test of time! As the handbag you’ll carry most often, choose quality. Personally, I look for handbags with feet on the bottom for added protection.

Find the right size — find a size that will allow you to bring what you need but will also be proportional to your size. You want the width, height, and depth of your handbag to be relative to your height, bone structure, and body shape. You don’t want a bag that overwhelms you or one so small it goes into hiding.

Shoulder straps or Not – if you like shoulder bags, make sure the straps are adjustable or the straps are a length that allows the bag to hit you at the right location on your side. Once again, it is about proportions. Not only do you want your sleeve length and hems to be proportional to your body, you want your handbag to also follow the rules of proportion.

Keep it versatile — this bag needs to match most of your day-to-day outfits.

Finding that “Everyday” bag keeps you from having to “change it out” frequently; therefore, keeping panic attics from occurring. Have you ever changed purses only to find out when you arrived at work or a meeting, you forgot to transfer your wallet, or lipstick?

The Little Black Bag

Just like its counterpart — the little black dress — the little black bag is reliable, timeless, chic, and oh so necessary. Finding a little black bag is adding a classic to your wardrobe that never goes out of style. You’ll likely have this bag (or multiple versions of a LBB) for years to come. Make sure it’s versatile and the right size for your needs.

The Tote

Everyone needs at least one tote! These bags are not only utilitarian, but they can look absolutely polished and professional, too. It’s wonderful to have a super roomy bag that can handle anything. If you are going to work, running errands, hopping on an airplane, or just heading to yoga, you’ll love having a practical bag that looks great too. Usually, totes are open tops, but you might prefer zip tops, which you can also find.

The Wristlet/Wallet on a Chain

When you want to carry as little as possible, grab a wristlet or a wallet on a chain. Having both of these options in your wardrobe is ideal! A wallet on a chain is just enough to carry cards and other wallet essentials, with a chain for a bit more pizazz if you want a more elegant look. Or, for something less dressy, a wristlet is the perfect little carrying case for essentials. Wristlets come in all shapes and sizes, from casual to professional.

The Crossbody

Hands-free all day? Crossbody bags are convenient, stylish, and carefree. While out shopping or running errands, one less thing to carry is just what we need! Crossbody bags can also be your everyday bag, depending on what you need. This bag should be versatile and durable.

The Belt Bag

Hands-free, but make it super trendy! Belt bags have been big in the last couple of years, and they’re on the 2022 runways. Belt bags are usually pretty small, just enough to carry a few essentials – ie. Phone, lipstick, credit card/license. Perfect for commuting or running errands, belt bags allow you to carry what you need while looking put together and having both hands free.

The Structured Bag

No accessory says “polished,” quite like a structured bag. A structured bag can instantly transform your look if you dress up, making it even chicer and put-together. Structured top handles are sophisticated and pull together a professional outfit or transform a casual outfit into a more ladylike and refined look.

The Clutch/Evening Bag

An evening bag is a wardrobe essential, although it’s probably the least used out of the bunch. There will always come a time when you need an evening bag for vacation, a wedding, or any event where you will be inclined to dress up, so it’s nice to have a few on hand. It’s a good idea to choose evening bags that will be neutral and paired with multiple outfits. Although most evening bags come in colors like black, champagne, or cream, you can always find a flashy one if that’s what dazzles you! If the clutch has a chain that you can convert to a shoulder bag, then you’ve got two for one

Personal Styling — More Than Just Purses

When was the last time you did something entirely for yourself? Sometimes, we all need a pick-me-up. Personal styling is a treat to give yourself when you want a fresh new look, trending clothing options, a personal shopper, or a wardrobe overhaul.

Whether you’ve just started a new job, you’re entering a new phase in life, or you just plain want to treat yourself, Lots of Luxe offers several options for busy women to get the wardrobe they love. If you’re shopping for a special occasion or just upgrading your look, contact us anytime to schedule a consultation.

07Oct

How to Makeover Your Closet: Inspiring Tips to Get Organized

October 7, 2021 Lots of Luxe

There is something refreshing about organizing a part of your home. It’s a new start; everything feels better, looks better, and your space feels rejuvenated. After making over your closet, you’ll feel better about getting dressed, you’ll find it easier to decide on outfits, and you’ll probably discover clothes or accessories you haven’t worn in a while!

Ready to finally organize your closet once and for all? Sometimes the inspiration to get organized strikes, and you realize the task may be more daunting than you thought.

If you want a fresh start with your closet, here are some tips and tricks to help you check this task off your to-do list.

Declutter First

The first step to organizing is to declutter. Don’t waste time organizing things you don’t want to keep! Before you start, clear out the clutter for a new beginning with only items you love and want to wear. This step will make organizing much easier. If it helps, make “yes” and “no” piles. The “no” pile will consist of anything outdated, doesn’t fit, or doesn’t suit your lifestyle.

Sort Clothes by Season

Don’t just organize to tidy up, but rather make your closet easily accessible so you can quickly choose what to wear each day. Separate your clothes by season and make the clothes you will wear now easily reachable for the next few months. Place out-of-season clothes in another area. You can also organize clothes by length, volume, or color. Perhaps you choose to put tank tops first, then sleeveless tops, then short-sleeved tops, and so on. Whatever makes the most sense or feels best to you, do that.

Keep Similar Items Together

Want your closet to feel like a boutique? When you are shopping for pants, you know exactly where to go. Make your closet as organized as a clothing store and put all like clothing together! If everything in your closet is hung up or folded at random, it’s time to change that. Find what you need quicker by putting items together. All pants, jeans, dresses, and tops go together. Feel free to narrow it down further by organizing by color, activity, or most often worn.

Add Closet Accessories

Want to get extra organized and stay that way? Use closet organizers! If your closet is busy and it’s hard to find what you’re looking for, do yourself a favor and use some excellent organizational tools. Use extra hooks, bins, shelf dividers, additional shelves, over-the-door organizers, or whatever else you think will help—keeping smaller items like belts, scarves, wallets, etc. together by using helpful organizers. You can choose clear organizers if you want to see what’s in them or opt for something colorful to brighten up the space. Using labels can be helpful too! If you’re going to get serious, install drawers if you need extra storage space.

Tie a Bow on It

After you’ve organized your closet and made it clutter-free, beautifully coordinated, and accessible, you’ll want to make it look more appealing too. Make your closet a place you want to be in by making it look fabulous. If it needs paint, a new light source, or any maintenance, be sure to get that done. Display your shoes, jewelry, and accessories as if you’re stepping into a small boutique every morning. Add some fun wallpaper or a new mirror. If you have space, decorate your closet and make it like new again!

Relax and Know You Conquered Your Closet

You did it! Organizing is no easy task, and it’s usually in the back of your mind to complete, but it doesn’t always get accomplished.

After you’ve finished organizing your clothes and refreshing your space, you might feel like you have some gaps in your wardrobe. After everything is separated and categorized, it’s easier to spot the things you need.

Wardrobe styling could be your next step. You’ll save time, feel your best in your clothes, and save money by avoiding making the wrong purchases. It’s a win-win for busy women!

01Sep

Which Shoes Are Right for You? A Guide to Feeling Confident and Comfortable in Your Shoes

September 1, 2021 Lots of Luxe

Women appreciate good footwear — shoes that make us feel good and look good. When you wear shoes that make you feel good, you know it — and everyone notices! The right shoes can even make an impact on the impression you make. Footwear can also completely change the mood of an outfit, not to mention lift our spirits.

Shoes can be practical, extravagant, eye-catching, outrageous, comfortable, make a statement, or literally just carry you through your day.

Want to know how to find shoes that flatter your body type? Here’s a quick guide for that.

Above all else, just know that you can choose to wear whatever you love and feel comfortable in — regardless of your body type!

Short and slim:

If your legs are short and thin, shoes with height are a great choice for you. Platforms, heels, and wedges all flatter you. If you want to make your legs appear longer, opt for shoes without straps at the ankle, which can create the illusion of shorter legs.

If heels aren’t your thing, but you want to make your legs look longer, you can choose skirts or dresses with high hemlines, giving you the appearance of longer legs while you wear comfy ballerina flats.

Short:

If you’re short, don’t fret, it’s easy to find shoes that flatter you. Simple heels are best! Choose bright statement shoes or prints that draw eyes downwards. Other choices include open-toed shoes or below-the-knee boots. Less flattering looks for short women include shoes that wrap around your ankle. Many fashion magazines will say that wearing flats will make your legs look even shorter, but if you want to wear flats, you should! Choose comfort and happiness first.

Tall and thin:

Now, on the flip side, forget the myth that tall women shouldn’t wear heels. Long, slim legs are flattered by heels, too. If you don’t want any extra height, choose flats, strappy sandals, or mid-calf stretchy boots are good choices. You could avoid pointy shoes or chunky platforms if you want to choose a more flattering option for your body.

Tall and muscular:

If your goal is to elongate your legs, wear heels, especially pointy, open-toed shoes. Wedge sandals with a 2–3-inch heel are another option.

Muscular women often have a hard time finding tall boots that fit over their calves, but you might find wide-calf boots with side zippers. Also, finding boots with a bit of slouch can give you some extra room. The least flattering shoes for you are rounded toe pumps, kitten heels, or small squared heels.

Universally flattering:

Stilettos. All women look great in stilettos, regardless of body type! Wear them if you love them, leave them if you don’t.

Get a Stylist’s Opinion

Busy? That’s okay, most of my clients are! That’s why they come to me to build their wardrobes, get expert advice, organize their closets, and get high-quality clothing delivered directly to their doors.

Sometimes, it’s a relief to get an opinion from someone you can trust. If you’re uncertain about your wardrobe and you want a partner to assist you with whatever needs you have, that’s what I’m here for.

18May

Are Your Clothes Making you Look Bigger?

May 18, 2021 Lots of Luxe

Tips & Tricks to Strategically Camouflage Flaws While Flaunting Your Best Assets

Want to learn the tips and tricks to accentuate your best assets and camouflage your flaws? The answer often lies with the clothes you choose.

Every woman’s body is unique. With that said, we all have our favorite and least favorite parts of our bodies. For confidence’s sake, we can learn exactly how to showcase the features of our bodies that we love and hide anything that we’d rather not. As always, it’s not about hating those parts we’d love to change but simply embracing them and accentuating the positives.

You may be wearing clothes that make you look bigger, hide your silhouette, or mask your favorite features. The great news is that we can slim down or make our bodies look fabulous within a matter of minutes with the right outfit.

Here are the top culprits for not looking your best.

Ill-Fitting Undergarments

Your bra, underwear, and shapewear are your foundation for looking good. If they don’t fit right (either too big or too small), even perfectly fitting clothes won’t look flattering. Too tight bras can cause bulges. Improperly fitting underwear can produce panty lines that make your rear look unfavorable. If shapewear doesn’t fit correctly, its purpose is no longer to your advantage. Always make sure you have the proper fit when it comes to undergarments. Getting professional fittings is a must to allow your best silhouette to shine through. What’s more, having underwear that fits right is just more comfortable!

Too Tight Clothes

This one is a given but let me elaborate. Often, tight-fitting clothes are fashionable, so we choose them based on their trendiness (read: skinny jeans). But we should be selecting clothes based on how good they make us feel and look rather than following the trends.

Clothes that are too tight can make us look larger. If you find yourself squeezing into anything, re-think it! Always choose clothes that fit you comfortably, even if it means going up a size. When you wear clothes that fit well, you won’t have to worry about unflattering angles.

Oversized Garments

On the flip side, wearing that oversized t-shirt, tunic, or jersey-style shirt with leggings is not doing your figure any favors. We probably feel more comfortable in large clothing, but if you want to flatter your figure, this is not the way to do it. This rule also applies to puffer jackets, chunky sweaters, and other pieces of clothing that add volume. If you want to look smaller, focus on well-fitting garments. If the sole goal is comfort, by all means, wear the oversized shirt!

Prints and Patterns

You’ve probably heard wearing horizontal stripes adds width to your figure. But what about other patterns? Many other prints can indeed add dimension and can create the illusion of a bulkier body. The two biggest culprits that make bodies noticeably fuller are large prints and horizontal stripes. If you love either of these prints, feel free to wear them, regardless. But if you are consciously trying to appear smaller, they are not your friend. Instead, try vertical stripes or small prints.

Chunky Footwear

Maybe you haven’t thought about how specific shoes can be unflattering to your figure, but it’s true. If you want to create the illusion of longer, slimmer legs, opt for sleeker, thinner, pointed-toe shoes. Wearing clunky heels and platforms adds more bottom heaviness and can make the legs appear shorter.

Need a Second Opinion?

If clothing fit is the last thing you have time for, you are not alone. Many women desire to look better, but their wishes fall to the wayside while taking care of everyone else. Finding a tailor, personal stylist, or wardrobe consultant takes the time and guesswork out of it so you can look your best while living your busy life.

Sometimes the best way to make sure your outfits are complementary to your figure is to ask a professional. Getting an unbiased, qualified expert to help you figure out what will make you look slimmer and chicer is just the ticket.

I’m here if you need me! Melrose

07Apr

Spring 2021 Skirt Trends

April 7, 2021 Lots of Luxe

How do you feel about skirts? Some women absolutely love them, and some women are skeptical about how they look in skirts. I’m here to bring skirt skeptics around to trying this trend! With the many skirts on deck this spring, you’re bound to find one style you love wearing.

There are so many reasons to invite more skirts into your daily wardrobe repertoire. Skirts are flattering, comfortable, and easy. Skirts can transform your look, so if you don’t usually wear them, you’re going to turn some heads when you start!

For skirt lovers, it’s time to rejoice as this season brings in your favorite wardrobe staple to the forefront of fashion.

Skirts can range from flowy to flirtatious to totally professional. There is a style that’s waiting for you to try, so without further ado, let’s look at this season’s skirt trends.

Belted Skirts

Belted skirts are worn at the natural waistline to cinch a naturally narrow waist, or to create the illusion of a whittled waist. There are many different kinds of belted skirts, from wide belts to skinny belts. Tuck in a blouse or wear a bodysuit if you want a slimmer silhouette with your belted skirt. Choose a neutral, breezy belted skirt that is versatile enough to pair with different tops and footwear all the way through the summer.

Pleated Midi Skirts

Midi skirts are timeless and can be worn in the office or on vacation, as they truly look stunning in any setting. Pleated skirts have made a major comeback this season. These skirts are versatile and flattering for everybody. Pleated skirts give an outfit texture and flair, so pair with simple top like a crisp white blouse or a crewneck sweater. Check out this elegant, floral pleated skirt perfect for any spring occasion.

Maxi Skirts

Maxi skirts are the well-known super comfortable skirt that can be worn throughout spring, summer, and even into the warm fall days. The greatest thing about maxi skirts is how flowy and put-together they look while you stay totally cool and comfortable. Depending on the style and fabric, maxi skirts can be worn to the office, the beach, and anywhere in between. Wear a chic maxi skirt with your choice of a tucked-in blouse, t-shirt, denim jacket, tank, or a top knotted on the side at the waist.

Leather Skirts

Ready to make a retro statement? Investing in a great leather skirt will be a trend you can wear this spring and again in the fall. If you love a good leather statement piece, try a skirt for a classic, yet trendy way to wear leather. Leather can be paired with other fabrics like silk, denim, sweaters, or basic tees, making this statement piece surprisingly versatile. Try this belted leather pencil skirt with a statement blouse.

Wrap Skirts

A stylish comeback from the 1960s and early 70s is the wrap skirt. Decades ago, wrap skirts were typically long, at least ankle-length, but today, wrap skirts come in a variety of styles and lengths so you can find the one that’s best for you. Wear a wrap skirt at the waist, and you can also adjust the waist and hip sizes allowing for a comfy, customized fit. Try an asymmetrical A-line wrap skirt with a button-down shirt for the office or pair with a floral blouse and denim jacket for a day out.

Ask Melrose: What Kind of Skirt Looks Best on Me?

There is a skirt (or many) for every body type. Looking your best doesn’t mean being perfect, but finding the styles that are perfect for you. Shopping and deciphering can be difficult, especially if you aren’t sure what you’re looking for.

That’s where a personal stylist comes in to do all the work for you. I know you’re a busy woman and the last thing you have to worry about is shopping and choosing, so that’s why the women I work with leave that to me.

Get in touch to learn how you can have the wardrobe of your dreams, complete with this season’s best skirt looks, or whatever you choose!

Or, shop online to see more trending skirts at Carlisle or Etcetera.

Lots of Luxe

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