29Apr

Life, Simplified: How Home Delivery Services Have Changed the Game

April 29, 2020 Lots of Luxe

Let’s get straight to the point: We are always busy. Especially women who tend to wear many hats. We juggle careers, marriages, kids, finances…all of it. Even while under a stay-at-home order, we’re busier than ever. And what we’re learning during this stay-at-home period is how convenient delivery and subscription services really are.

We can get anything delivered, from meal subscription kits to bags of fresh groceries to essentials from the pharmacy. Subscription services are also in every niche imaginable, from makeup to coffee, all tailored to your tastes and delivered to your door. We can even get food from restaurants that traditionally don’t deliver brought straight to us wherever we are via food delivery services. Even when we’re not super busy, it’s easy to use concierge-y services to help us out while we kick-back.

Another benefit of these delivery services is they can be automated, so we don’t even have to think about them. And the coolest thing is, none of these services break the bank…not even close. I’m trying really hard to see any downside here!

So if you’re already using UberEats, Instacart, Home Chef, Ipsy, and others, have you tried our Box of Luxe yet?

Box of Luxe allows you to stay on top of your wardrobe needs with beautiful pieces from the Carlisle and Etcetera collections. For no additional fees or commitment of a subscription, clothing pieces are selected by a Personal Stylist who carefully considers your lifestyle needs, your likes and dislikes, and even fit issues. These carefully curated wardrobe pieces, your Box of Luxe, is then delivered to your doorstep.

Box of Luxe makes managing your look, adding new pieces to your closet, and updating your clothing each season easy. You can consistently maintain a stunning, fresh wardrobe without shopping.

Honestly, it’s a no-brainer, and you’ll have a team of Stylists behind every choice, guaranteeing you’ll love everything. If you don’t love it, return it within five days, no questions asked.

How it Works

Complete a Style Profile. Tell us about your style so we can pick the perfect items for you.
Receive your box. You’ll receive 4-6 pieces personally selected for you by a Stylist from our Carlisle and/or ETCETERA collections. Your Box of Luxe will be shipped to you free or hand-delivered by a Stylist.
Try on your clothes You’ll have five days to try on the clothes. Keep what you want. If needed, exchange what you want for another size, or return anything you don’t want hassle-free.

The Benefits

Your time is respected. Save lots of time by having clothes shipped straight to you; avoiding those time-consuming trips to the mall.
You’ll have a stylist on your side. A Personal Stylist can help you make purposeful decisions about your wardrobe. Take the guesswork out with a Personal Stylist.
It’s tailored to you. Box of Luxe picks pieces from the Carlisle and Etcetera collections that match your lifestyle, size, body type, and personal preferences.
There are NO FEES! You will never pay any membership, styling, or subscription fees. No deposits and no return shipping fee.
You have control over delivery. Get a box when you want it. You will not be committed to a subscription. If a subscription is your preference, no problem. We can arrange that for you and help determine the timing.
Use your preferred payment at sign up. You only pay for what you keep.

Style, Delivered

Box of Luxe brings you the freshest pieces each season from the Carlisle and ETCETERA Collections. You can count on the finest fabrics, a fabulous fit, and superior service that consistently delivered with each Box of Luxe. If you have questions or you’d like to know more, contact me.

Ready for your first Box of Luxe? Complete your Style Profile here.

15Apr

A No-Fail Wedding Guest Style Guide for Her

April 15, 2020 Lots of Luxe

Weddings are exciting events to look forward to! Getting the invitation is a moving experience as you anticipate the big day with loved ones and friends. And then, the invitation addresses attire in two words that don’t even go together: Beach formal. What’s that even mean?

Before we decide exactly what to wear to a wedding, we have to decide how dressy to get. That’s where it gets tricky. What’s the difference between white tie and black tie? Black tie optional? What about an invitation that is vague and doesn’t mention a dress code?

Don’t worry, I have answers.

I’ve created a quick guide on wedding attire and what to wear, in all scenarios.

Quickly though, some very general rules:

Women wear dresses and men wear suits.

Women don’t wear white, in any form. This rule is an old rule that falls within the social norm to not outshine a bride on her wedding day. Unless the dress code is specifically noted in the invitation, e.g., a “white wedding” or “black and white attire only”, stay away from white dresses.

Time of day matters. Day weddings and night weddings mean different things in terms of how formal to get. Day weddings are automatically less formal than night weddings. So, an early afternoon ceremony followed by a brunch reception means lighter colors, cocktail dresses, sundresses, informal maxi dresses, and the like. Evening weddings that go on into the night mean more formal dresses, longer lengths, deeper colors, fancier accessories, etc.

White Tie

This is the most formal dress code for a wedding, and it’s typically not too common but it happens. Be sure to wear a formal, full-length gown in rich hues or black. Most white tie events happen in the evening, so night wedding rules apply. Feel free to go all out on your ultra-formal look: Updos, makeup, and statement jewelry.

Black Tie

Black tie is more common and these weddings are less formal than a white tie event but still require proper dressing up. Wear a floor-length gown or formal cocktail dress. Depending on the venue, a formal jumpsuit can be appropriate as well.

Black Tie Optional

The name may be confusing, but it simply means that this event is a bit more toned down than a typical black tie event. You have some wiggle room here on how fancy to get. The black tie dress code is a good jumping off point: Wear a floor-length or cocktail dress.

Cocktail Attire

Cocktail attire is fancy but more laid back than black tie. These weddings are festive events where you are free to dress less formally than the previously mentioned style rules. Cocktail dresses or skirts and blouses are appropriate.

Beach Formal

Beach formal is an upscale beach wedding where flip flops are never allowed. Maxi dresses, knee-length sundresses, and wedge sandals all fall within the beach formal dress code. Remember that wedges and espadrilles are your best friend, as heels and sand never work. Makeup and hair should be polished, yet much more relaxed, like beachy waves or a simple chignon.

Casual Attire

Casual attire is laid back wedding attire. There is still some dressing up to do, just much less formally. Wear sundresses, relaxed maxi dresses, or a skirt and blouse. Subtle accessories are fine.

What to do when the invitation is vague?

When the invitation doesn’t mention the dress code, there are a few clues to follow to gauge how to dress. First, how fancy is the invitation? The invite is a good clue as to the formality of the coming event. If the invitation is very formal, consider black tie or cocktail attire. A more casual invitation means less formal.

Second, with a bit of investigation about the venue, you can also gauge how dressy to get. Where will the wedding be held? Use the venue space as an indicator.

Need extra assistance during wedding season?

Formal dress codes often mean getting help from a personal stylist. New gowns and cocktail dresses definitely require tailoring to look and feel your best at the event. I can guide you through wedding season! If you need anything, consider reaching out. That’s what I’m here for

XOXO, Melrose.

26Feb

How to Recycle Outfits: Here’s How to Wear the Same Outfit Twice

February 26, 2020 Lots of Luxe

While some would consider wearing the same outfit twice a huge faux-pas, we all do it because we’re human and we use what we’ve got. Why not wear something twice -or three times- a month if we love it, it’s comfortable, or we just feel confident in it? I say if you love it wear it, and really, who cares if we’re caught wearing the same outfit twice? If celebrities and even Duchess Kate Middleton have been caught wearing the same thing twice, we can too.

But, there are ways to make it seem like your wardrobe is endless and you wouldn’t dare recycle an outfit. Sometimes we’d like to wear the same dress to two different events but not get caught in pictures wearing the same thing. If you want to create the appearance of an abundant wardrobe or just add more creativity to what you wear, here are some great ways to add diversity to your favorite outfits.

Here’s how to wear the same outfit twice and fool everyone. A few subtle tweaks are all it takes.

Play with Makeup and Hair

Makeup and hair can completely transform your look even if your outfit is the same. The art of playing with a bold lipstick or new hairstyle can change the vibe of an outfit. It also completely takes the focus off your outfit and onto you! Using celebrities as an example, typically, when a celebrity wears the same dress twice, she will have changed her hair or makeup to try to throw us off. An evening gown look can look different with an elegant updo versus a long, flowing hairstyle. Using that image for inspiration, why not get creative?

Style, Restyle, Style Again

A quick way to easily get away with wearing the same outfit over and over again is by restyling! Changing up how you style an outfit can add some flair, dress up or dress down any kind of garment. A t-shirt and jeans can be switched up by knotting the t-shirt, to create a casual look. Switch heels for flats or sandals for sneakers for a fresh look to your outfit.

Add or Subtract

On a similar note to the above suggestion, don’t underestimate the power of accessories when restyling your look. Add a belt, hat, blazer, or jewelry to your restyled outfit. Layering is fun, great for seasonal wardrobe changes, and a must-do when recycling outfits. A sundress with a sun hat is a much different look than a sundress paired with a leather jacket. Contrarily, subtracting from your outfit can drastically change the look of it.

Capsule Dressing

One of our favorite ways of creating a wardrobe that is versatile enough to utilize pieces more than twice is to create capsules. When updating your wardrobe each season with new pieces, think about what’s in your closet and then select pieces that allow you to easily mix and match creating the perfect capsules for a weekend getaway, business trip, or an easy dressing work week.

Create a Purposeful Wardrobe with Box of Luxe

Most women don’t have time to be constantly thinking about their wardrobes, which results in recycling outfits. It’s just easier that way! But, there is a way to build a wardrobe without having to do any of the work and it’s called Box of Luxe. Box of Luxe is the answer for busy women who don’t have much time to put in the effort of shopping and creating the wardrobe of their dreams. With Box of Luxe, a personal stylist uses your personal style, body type, and preferences to deliver 4-6 pieces of clothing to you. Keep what you love, and return what you don’t. No subscriptions, no fees. Any questions? Contact me and I’d be happy to help!

15Jan

The Art of Self-Confidence: How Does Confidence Affect Your Image?

January 15, 2020 Melrose Fisher

It’s true: confident women are better at most everything. Confident people attract more support from others, tend to be effortlessly graceful, and are even more successful. It’s easy to see that confidence can get you ahead. Simply put, confidence attracts more than insecurity does. Feeling good about yourself can help you level up in all areas of life.

Exuding more confidence can change your image in countless ways, but here are a couple of examples.

Self-confidence makes you more attractive

Imagine walking into a room full of people you don’t know. People who are getting to know you for the first time will notice and even feed off of your confidence. Posture is a good indicator of a confident, self-assured person. Stand up tall, keep your head up, and make eye contact with others. A good attitude is another attractive trait of a confident person. Talking to others, asking questions, and engaging in conversation are all attractive traits that will help you come off as an amazingly self-confident woman.

Self-confidence leads to more success

Whether in an interview, casual lunch, or meeting potential clients, self-confident people are more likely to land a new job or client. We know that confidence increases your chances of getting hired or nailing your dream employer. Portraying positive energy and leadership qualities helps you assert your power. When you feel good about yourself and your skills, others will easily feel good about you too!

So, let’s talk about building confidence because we could all use a boost!

Confidence is never about perfection or caring about what others think about you. You don’t have to be perfect to be confident. Let’s be honest, everyone, from everyday women to cat-walking supermodels have insecurities. Confidence is more about being unapologetically you.

Confidence isn’t about impressing others, but more about impressing yourself! Here are a few ways to feel your absolute best, and portray an image of a fearless, happy woman.

Smile more

It’s the simplest way to boost your happiness and feel good. Sharing a smile with others shows them you are approachable and fun to be around. Smiles are contagious.

Eliminate negative self-talk

If we’re working on upping our levels of confidence, use positive words when talking about yourself and your situation. Silence that inner voice that says you aren’t good enough. Optimism and positivity attract more feel-good thoughts.

Invest in your appearance

Confidence comes from within, but it starts with feeling good. How can you start to feel really good? Imagine how good you feel when you buy a new outfit and wear it for the first time. When you look good, you feel good. Simple things like buying a new outfit, getting a haircut, or spritzing on your favorite perfume can be great confidence boosters.

How we express ourselves shows others how we feel about ourselves on the inside. Clothing is one of the easiest ways to express self-confidence, personal style, and the image you want to portray.

Does your wardrobe add to your confidence levels?

Want to increase your charisma with your personal style? Maybe you aim to find clothes that make you feel more luxurious. Or, perhaps, you are looking for clothes that flatter your unique figure. Whatever your wardrobe goals are, building a wardrobe can impact your confidence levels. Looking your best means feeling your best, and putting your best foot forward. If you want to change or improve your self-image, clothes are one of the simplest ways to start!

If you need some direction on where to start, I’m here to help you on your journey. I believe every woman deserves to feel confident and building the right wardrobe can definitely make all of the difference.

13Nov

Fashion Trends: Love Them or Leave Them?

November 13, 2019 Melrose Fisher

Your Ultimate Guide for Deciding Which Fashion Trends Will Work for You

Are you a trend chaser or a trend avoider? What thoughts inevitably come up when you hear the word “trend’? If trends are working for you, I would never challenge you to leave them. Of course, fashion is meant to be playful and fun. But, if you are a trend chaser familiar with the cycle of buying clothes, neglecting them and ending up with a closet full of “nothing to wear”, then this article could be your saving grace.

If you avoid trends completely, you could be missing out on some exciting new ways to showcase your personal style. The following tips will help you embrace changing trends in a way that doesn’t intimidate or fill up your closet with trends you won’t wear in six months’ time.

Trends come with the seasons and we sometimes have a love/hate relationship with them. You see a new trend made popular by a celebrity, you buy it, wear it once, and then never again. Sound familiar? So, how can you know whether to embrace a new trend or to let it be? Trends can be a fun way to experiment with fashion and self-expression. They can also be challenging to fit into our current wardrobe if our goal is to create longevity with our clothing.

Here’s how to decide whether to welcome a new trend or to leave it on the rack – The next time you’re tempted to try a trend, ask yourself the following questions:

Will the trend seamlessly fit into my current wardrobe?

We want to create and maintain a fluid wardrobe that works well as a whole unit. A wardrobe works best when we can step into our closet and easily choose an outfit, for any event or situation. Wardrobes should be cohesive. If the trend is the opposite of anything you typically wear or if you would have trouble pairing it with your current clothes to make an outfit, then don’t buy it. However, some trends can be easily worn and introduced into your wardrobe; these are the trends you’ll want to invest in. You will be more likely to wear a trend that easily aligns with your current wardrobe.

Is the trend classic or ostentatious?

Some trends are classics that come and go over the years. Classic trends include prints, colors, and fabrics. For example, you’ll notice prints such as stripes and florals pop up over the years, then disappear, and then reappear over time. With a classic trend, you will never look back at old photos and wonder, “What was I thinking?”. It’s the best of both worlds: you get to wear something on-trend and you can wear it for seasons to come.

But how do you differentiate between a classic trend and one that’s ostentatious? The classic trends tend to be more subtle, like a hot color or a popular fabric. While an ostentatious trend is meant to make a statement, such as unique styling. Some trends we’re seeing this fall are satin, shades of purple, and bike shorts paired with blazers. Items in purple or satin might be safe bets to add to your closet, but what about bike shorts with blazers? If this trendy look is a far stretch from your personal style than it may not be for you. However, if you’re a statement-maker, then give it a try! If not, try a more classic trend so you’re still dressing in a current fashion.

Some trends are merely showy and may be popular for a season but won’t stick around as effortless classic trends do. Ask yourself if a certain trend will be worth buying for the long-term goals of your closet.

Does the trend flatter my figure?

Trends might look fabulous on a model, celebrity, or even a friend, but will the trend flatter your own unique body type? Wearing clothing that flatters your body is important for your confidence and for creating a wardrobe that excites you every day. You want everything in your closet to comfortably fit and flatter your curves and body type. If it doesn’t fit in a way that makes you look and feel wonderful, then leave it. Comfort and confidence trump a trend every time.

Does this trend work with my personal style?

Okay, here’s where I can help. A lot of women don’t know how to define their personal style. If you can categorize the way you dress in a couple of words, you will have a template to consider for all your future clothing purchases. You will be able to easily decide what works best for you and your lifestyle, including colors, fits, fabrics, and more. Building a wardrobe is suddenly easier. This step can be especially trying, but an extra opinion from a stylist can be a huge help. Want to define your personal style and make your wardrobe work for you? It’s my specialty! And I always welcome calls or emails if you have questions.

06Nov

How to Determine Proper Pant Length

November 6, 2019 Melrose Fisher

When shopping for pants it’s common to consider the style, the color or print, and the size of the pant, but have you considered the length? One length does not fit all. Here are some basic guidelines to follow when determining the proper length for different pant styles:

1. Cropped Pants

Let’s get right into it with cropped pants – one of the trickiest styles to get right since they are intentionally worn shorter than typical. When not cropped to the proper length, an intentional cropped pant can look like an accident (think: unattractive ‘highwaters’). The hem for a proper cropped pant should hit right at the top of the ankle, showing a few inches of skin between the hem and the shoe. This rule is true for both slim-fitted and wide-leg styles.

2. Straight Leg/Classic Fit

Now back to the basics. A straight leg or classic fit pant needs a proper hemline to keep the look polished. You’ll want the hem to hit right below your ankle bone. Too long and your pants will look too big on you, causing your overall look to appear messy. Too short and, again, we get the dreaded ‘highwaters’ effect. You’ll know you’ve got the proper length when you look in the mirror, stand up straight, and your pant leg makes a clean straight line from waist to hem. Occasionally you may get a slight break in your pant, this is when there is a slight crease in the front pant leg due to the hem meeting your shoe. This is okay when it’s not overdone, as demonstrated in the 3rd image below.

3. Slim-Fit/Skinny Pants

A slim-fit pant looks best when the hemline sits right at the bottom of your ankle, above the ankle bone. This works when worn with flats or heels. If the hem is just slightly longer on a skinny pant, it can still work. If the pant gathers slightly at the top of the foot, this isn’t a problem. You just want to make sure you don’t end up with skinny pants so long that the bottom is completely scrunched up around your ankles.

4. Wide Leg

A wide-leg pant can already be overwhelming on a body, so choosing the proper length for this style pant is especially important. The hemline for a wide pant should graze the top of the foot. You need to find the sweet spot here – wearing a wide leg pant in a cropped length is okay, but you need to be sure to go with a true cropped length (as mentioned above in #1). Going too short can make a wide leg pant look silly and disproportionate. On the other hand, going too long can cause problems as well. You’ll know if a wide leg pant is too long if the pants are dragging on the floor. Even a little bit of the hemline skimming the ground can end up ruining your pants, not to mention your overall look. However, a quick fix to donning wide-leg pants that are too long? Wear a heel – elongate your leg to give the wide leg pant more length to keep them off the floor.

If you’re having trouble finding the right length in a style of pants that you just love, don’t hesitate in making your purchase. A good tailor can take your measurements and accurately hem any pair of pants to the proper length. If you need help, give me a call (919-819-9054). We have a professional Tailor available at the Lots of Luxe Studio every Wednesday and we’d be happy to assist you!

15Oct

6 Tips for Putting Together a Super Stylish Outfit

October 15, 2019 Melrose Fisher

1. Let’s Get Practical

First things first: Deciding what to wear requires a few logistical considerations. You need to think of the weather, your schedule, and activities for the day. When we dress, we want to start with practicality; so begin by asking yourself a few questions:

Is the weather predicted to be consistent all day or will you be needing to put on/take off layers? Should you wear pants and a sweater, or will pants combined with a sleeveless blouse and a cardigan be a wiser choice?

Will you have to walk long distances or stand for long periods of time? Will you be more comfortable in heels or flats?

Does your schedule call for dressy or casual clothes? Are you dressing for your workday, the weekend, or a special event?

Do any of your activities throughout the day require, or limit, particular items of clothing? Are you doing anything that could, for example, dirty your clothes, like gardening, painting, or hiking? Will you be doing any activities that would make it impractical to wear, for example, a dress or skirt?

Women who are confident and look polished all day think about these things. Don’t worry – This doesn’t have to be daunting, just remember that you want to feel comfortable, dress appropriately, and look your best!

2. Choose Comfort

Myth: Dressing for comfort means that clothing will lack style and personality and will be rather dull.

Fact: Dressing for comfort does not mean you need to walk around in something drab. Clothing should be comfortable in the sense that you feel your absolute best in what you’re wearing.

Comfort does not mean boring! Quality fabrics and proper fit should be the top criteria when considering comfort. If you don’t feel comfortable in clothing that you have to wear all day, chances are you won’t wear it. Or, even worse, you’ll get stuck wearing something that doesn’t feel quite right, which can affect your mood and really throw off your entire day.

When choosing comfort, consider your signature style. If you’re dressing true to your authentic self, then you will feel comfortable and confident in anything you put on!

3. Start With The Basics

Now that you’ve considered the external factors, start building your outfit with the basics. Your basics will be the clothing items that make up the foundation of your outfit. These are your solid starting pieces to getting dressed.

Imagine, your ‘body’ is your blank canvas and your ‘basics’ are the first layers of paint. You want to start with a good foundation, then adorn and style.

Your basics for any outfit can be examples like the following:

A casual day? T-shirt and jeans.

A day with clients? Pencil skirt and blouse.

A night out? A dressy top and black pants.

4. Jazz Up Your Basics

Now that you’ve laid the foundation of your outfit, add some flair in the way that you style the pieces that you’re wearing. Play with textures, lengths, patterns, and colors with whatever you choose to add to your outfit. Keep it functional, with your choice of layering pieces or accessories, or choose self-expression through the creativity of the pieces you select.

This might mean swapping a classic silk blouse for one that features smocked sleeves. Or, elevating a standard sweater by donning one that features a knit texture or an embellishment, like beading or embroidery. Add some flair to your typical solid-colored pants by trying a unique wrap overlay or cropped style pant, or simply opt for a printed pant.

5. Choose Your Shoes

Shoes can make or break an outfit. They can also drastically change the tone of an outfit. Think, jeans with sneakers or jeans with heels – very different vibes, right? Choose shoes that fit the practicality of your day, but also consider your mood and the style of your outfit. Some days a skirt goes better with flats and, other days, heels are needed to add that extra oomph to the same skirt.

6. Pick A Conversation Starter

You’ve created an awesome outfit! Now, to accessorize. Want to add some fun to your outfit? Choose a piece that will start a conversation. A beautiful headband, a bright necklace, or a fabulous fur scarf will surely do the trick. Some other examples are to incorporate a statement-making belt or an eye-catching handbag. Dressing to start a conversation can be a fun way to experiment with your style. Find the WOW piece that will take your ensemble to next-level style.

There you have it – Six steps to creating a stylish outfit every day.

What about the other fashion fundamentals?

If you have questions about tips for figure flattery, the best color palettes for you, or dressing to express your unique personality, I can help with that. Outfit creation is not always one–size–fits–all, pardon the pun. Every woman is unique and therefore her style is too. I am always available to help you to feel your best, and only an email away – melrose@luxenc.com.

23Sep

The Continuity of Classics: How to Build a Functional Forever Wardrobe

September 23, 2019 Melrose Fisher

“I feel like I’m constantly buying new clothes and I still feel like I have nothing to wear.”

“I typically wear the same outfits week after week.”

“I feel overwhelmed when shopping for new clothes.”

“I have so much trouble creating new, fresh outfits from what I have to choose from.”

Sound familiar?

The conundrum: a closet full of clothes and nothing to wear. It’s all too common. So, how can we fix a problem like this and have plenty of clothes to choose from, shop smarter (without the dread) and always feel like we have a fresh mix of classics and on-trend clothes?

If we focus on keeping classics and adding in a few new trends each season then we can accomplish putting together a functional wardrobe that will last – timeless yet different each season.

HERE’S HOW TO GET IT DONE:

1. START WITH THE CLASSICS

Build the Basics

Classics in neutral colors will never go out of style. The bulk of your wardrobe should come from classics. This way, you always have a solid foundation of clothing to wear, no matter the trends nor the season. Pieces like button-down cotton shirts, solid-colored tank tops, little black dresses, cashmere sweaters, black slacks, and blue jeans are classics that never go out of style.

Choose a few of each of these basic pieces in neutral colors. A neutral color palette will give you the option of building a variety of outfits from just the basics. You can mix-and-match separates, layer additional pieces, and add accessories to create a variety of different outfits.

Layers on Layers

Next, focus on layers. Keep these classic and neutral too. Denim jackets, camel trenches, leather jackets, and cardigans are some good layers to add. Again, these can be added to neutral outfit basics when the weather gets cool or simply to make outfits more interesting.

Functional Shoes

Shoes can change the whole look of an outfit. Be sure to choose shoes in neutral colors that will be a functional part of your wardrobe… and lifestyle. Some basics to consider include neutral-colored pumps, casual sneakers, tall boots, flats, and sandals. Having timeless shoes on-hand will always lead to a perfect match for your classic outfit choices.

Add Accessories

Curating a collection of timeless accessories will allow you to easily match your accentuating pieces to any outfit. Accessories like classic-printed scarves, neutral-colored handbags, leather belts, and simple jewelry will add a timeless finishing touch to any look.

2. ADD IN SOME TRENDS

A wardrobe without some trends can become a tad boring. Trends elevate our outfits, giving our classic pieces that little bit of extra umph to turn them into new and interesting outfits each season.

But don’t start your shopping trip seeking out the hottest trends. If you start buying trends first, things get messy. You buy too much, you will end up with too many outdated pieces, and not everything will match. This is where wardrobe trouble starts and it is quite literally a closet full of (trendy) clothes and nothing to wear. This is why it’s important to build up a wardrobe of classics first. Once you build the foundation for your wardrobe, adding trends is simple and easy.

Trends are fun and allow you to experiment with your unique style, but they aren’t the building blocks of a functional wardrobe. So, add them as individual pieces to your classic looks, like through the use of an in-style print, a statement-making accessory, or on-trend pops of color.

If you have a closet full of basics in neutral colors that you can layer, you will always have enough to wear. Adding on-trend pieces will boost your personal style and help you to mix-and-match, creating unique looks with each new season.

Need more help?

If you aren’t sure where to start, I completely get it. You aren’t alone! Strategically building a wardrobe is some work and it can be overwhelming. This is what I do – I can help you build a working wardrobe of basics, sprinkled with season trends that fit your style. Our Carlisle and ETCETERA collections make this easy; each include both basics and seasonal trend pieces. Call or email me and we can set up an appointment that works for your schedule.

14Aug

How to Build a Wardrobe for Each New Season

August 14, 2019 Melrose Fisher

Each season brings forth new energy and excitement about getting last year’s clothes out of storage. Suddenly, everything feels brand new again! Or, does it? Well, it should if each season’s wardrobe is properly prepared in advance. Rotating clothing for the change of seasons can be an easy process if you know how to do it and have the right help.

The benefits of seasonal wardrobe rotations:

You’ll get inspired by clothes you already own.
Periodic inspections of clothing keep you from having a cluttered closet.
You’ll be forced to consider getting rid of ill–fitting, outdated items and make room for new clothes that make you look and feel great.
There will be fewer items in your closet, which means that it will be easier to dress every day.

Here’s how to evaluate, rotate and pare down your wardrobe for each new season:

Step 1: Evaluate Each Item

For each article of clothing in your closet, ask yourself if there is a purpose for each item. There should be a purpose for every piece of clothing you are keeping (e.g. for work, leisure, special events, etc.) or else it is just clutter and it needs to be donated. If you don’t have a purpose for the clothing, let it go.

Next up, ask yourself if you actually like each piece of clothing. Tastes change and so do trends, if you aren’t in love with an item, donate it. You aren’t likely to wear it if you don’t love it.

Do all of the items in your wardrobe fit well? If it doesn’t fit or feel comfortable, set it aside. Anything that doesn’t fit can either be donated or altered.

Lastly, donate or toss any clothing or accessories that aren’t in great condition.

Step 2: Sort Through the Seasons

There will be three categories of clothing to sort through: the incoming season, the outgoing season, and the season–less items. Choose the outgoing season’s items that you wish to keep and then prepare them for storage.

Before you put every piece of the previous season’s clothing into storage, take a few minutes to consider the following:

Do you still like the piece?
Does it still fit well?
Is it too worn for another season?
Do you think you’ll wear it again next year?

Use these deciding factors to keep or donate the outgoing season’s clothing and you’ll save yourself time and aggravation when pulling out your clothes a year later. The change of seasons is the best time to let go and make room for the new.

Step 3: The Incoming Season’s Rotation

Once you get your incoming season’s clothing out of storage, it’s time to reintroduce it into your wardrobe.

While you spend the effort to bring out next season’s pieces, consider a few of these questions:

Is the item in perfect condition?
Do you like wearing it?
Do you need any additional items to pair with the piece?

Step 4: Decide What You Actually Need

Now you have evaluated each item based on its condition, purpose, and wear-ability. You have also sorted your clothing by seasons. However, you may still have some questions:

What kind of pieces are you missing?
Are there gaps in your seasonal wardrobes?
What’s on trend for upcoming seasons?

Need more help?

Building a wardrobe can be a daunting task, but the easiest time to do it is when the seasons are changing. You’re likely to already be in your closet, rotating out one season’s items for the next. While you’re at it, it’s a smart choice to build the perfect wardrobe for the season and to prepare last season’s wardrobe for next year (you’ll be happy you did).

It will be fall before we know it. Now is the time to be taking your fall clothing out of storage and to consider how you can reintroduce it into your wardrobe. You will also want to do a review of your summer items before packing them up until next year.

I’ve given you the steps to build your wardrobe for each new season, but I understand that it may still sound like an overwhelming process, or perhaps you simply don’t have the time or don’t want to do it. If you need additional help, that’s what I’m here for! I can help you decide what goes and what stays, how to pair clothing, revive clothing, and how to set you up with a perfect wardrobe for every season. Call or email to set up an appointment!

15Jul

What to Do When You Have a Closet Full of Clothes and Nothing to Wear

July 15, 2019 Melrose Fisher

A closet full of clothes and nothing to wear is something that every woman can relate to. This is a popular conundrum to have, but why? This is one of the most frustrating situations to be in when dressing for work, special occasions, or just everyday events. You know you can relate!

Typically, when we have a full closet and feel like there is nothing to put together it’s because we haven’t actually made a functional wardrobe. Making poor judgements in the fitting room or hasty decisions at checkout are a couple of reasons for a wardrobe that doesn’t work well for you.

Why isn’t your current wardrobe working for you?

You refuse to let go of old clothing
Out with the old, in with the new! If you are holding onto ill–fitting or outdated clothing, then it’s merely taking up space in your closet. If you haven’t worn a garment sometime over the last year, odds are you won’t wear it again; so, let it go.

Your clothes don’t fit properly
Don’t keep clothing that doesn’t fit, it’s not good for your wardrobe or your psyche! If the fit isn’t right, then you won’t feel comfortable in that garment and you won’t want to wear it anyway, so don’t keep it. Make way for new clothes that fit your body and make you feel comfortable and confident.

You buy things you don’t absolutely love
Sometimes we shop and buy things just so our efforts aren’t squandered. Shopping can be time-consuming, so in order to feel like it wasn’t a waste, we go home with a purchase, regardless of whether we absolutely love it or not. Clothes are meant to be loved; if you don’t love it, don’t buy it!

How can we can fix a less than desirable wardrobe?

Everything fits
When consciously building a wardrobe, instead of aimlessly buying clothes, make sure that everything fits and that everything fits well. All of the clothing in your closet should make you feel good, if it doesn’t you aren’t likely to wear it! Choose clothes that make you feel fabulous.

Define your personal style
When building your wardrobe, choose a cohesive selection of clothing that represents your individuality. Instead of choosing clothing at random every time you shop, create a wardrobe that showcases your unique style, and keep building on it.

Create your color palette
We tend to choose similar colors all of the time, so you may relate to this. Always grabbing the black clothing on the rack? Well, it’s important to know what colors suit your skin tone and hair color. There are certain colors that you may not be considering (or even avoiding) when you shop. It’s important to know what colors suit you and to start integrating them into your wardrobe.

Everything complements your lifestyle
Do you tend to buy things on trend? Sometimes we buy trendy pieces of clothing or clothing that looks great on a friend only to find ourselves scarcely wearing it. Buy clothing that fits your body type and lifestyle, or else your closet will be filled with rarely worn clothing. Define what fits your daily needs – whether it be comfort, function, or style – and build your wardrobe based on those criteria. Your aim is to have a functioning wardrobe that you love, so embrace the kind of clothing you need for everyday wear.

Create easy outfit combinations
When you have created a wardrobe of items that look great and feel great, creating outfits will be much easier. If you’ve chosen the colors that flatter you, everything fits as it should, and all of the garments reflect your personal fashion and lifestyle, dressing is easy.

Need some help building your new wardrobe?

Creating a wardrobe that works for you can be a bit intimidating or even overwhelming. Maybe you aren’t even sure where to start! That’s where I come in – I’m here to help you with donation decisions (see: wardrobe auditing), understanding your personal color palette, and determining which garments will fit your lifestyle. Together we can work on perfecting your wardrobe!

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