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!

19Jun

First Impressions Are Everything: Here’s How to Always Make a Stunning One

June 19, 2019 Melrose Fisher

Clothing speaks before you do. It’s human nature to make a quick judgment about someone upon first appearance. Even those of us who have been taught to not judge a book by its cover can’t help but to quietly assume someone else’s values, work ethic, personality traits, and probable lifestyle.

Imagine how we view people in uniform. We might view a police officer as stoic, brave, or stern. A farmer could be seen as humble, hardworking, and down to earth…literally. Thinking of any other professionals now? I bet you can decide what kind of person a teacher, real estate agent, or construction worker is just by a first impression. Now you might be imagining how others view you!

First impressions are not reserved for job interviews and business meetings alone. It’s important to always be on top of your game no matter where you go or who you’re around. Why? Because first impressions are everywhere! You truly never really know when and where you’ll meet a potential new client, friend, or even your next boss.

Fortunately, there is no need to put forth job-interview-effort when choosing everyday outfits. If you create a wardrobe that suits your body and lifestyle, dressing to impress will be truly effortless.

Make your first impression before you even speak. Here’s how to do it:

1. Mind your posture

Project confidence by standing and sitting up straight. Walk with purpose and keep your head up, chin parallel with the ground. Good posture is important for first impressions because you can either radiate confidence or appear to be insecure. Whether you’re walking into a board meeting or walking into the gym, be mindful of your posture and what your body language may be expressing. Body language can tell others how you feel about yourself, so show them you love and respect yourself just the way you are.

2. Be comfortable in your clothing

In order to appear confident and capable, it’s important to be comfortable in whatever you choose to wear. Being comfortable can make you feel more empowered and that will translate to how you make first impressions. Make sure your clothing fits your body the way it should. Clothing that is too loose can come off as a bit sloppy, while clothing that’s too tight can look inappropriate. If your clothing doesn’t fit you perfectly, get it tailored to suit your body. The investment in properly fitting clothes is well worth it when you look and feel your best. Not to mention, once tailored properly, you’ll be able to start wearing all the ill-fitting clothing you’ve neglected to wear since you bought it.

3. Represent your profession

Your clothing should always be appropriate to the setting you’re in. Keep your look neat and tailored no matter the occasion. It’s just as important to look tidy in the grocery store as it is at work. Remember that your clothing represents you, your status, and the company you work for. Decide what your “uniform” should be to represent what you do. Should your signature style be conservative like a banker or super chic like a master hair stylist? Especially if you want to establish yourself in your field, your outfits will let others know what kind of work you do.

4. Make a statement

Choose to show the world who you are with the clothing you wear. Wear styles that flatter your body and colors that compliment your skin tone. One of the best things about building a wardrobe is showcasing your personality with it. Your clothing says a lot about you, so use it to show off elements of your personality. Bright accessories, bold handbags, and stylish prints can give others a first impression they aren’t likely to forget. But it’s also okay to make a more subtle statement with understated style to portray a more reserved look. The important thing to remember is, be true to you – make the statement that you want to make.

Lastly, remember to mind your head to your toes. Make appropriate makeup choices and don’t forget that people notice your shoes.

Need some styling advice?

Are you still not sure how to properly make a statement or represent yourself with your clothes? If you need some advice in styling your wardrobe to make a killer first impression every time, I’m here to help! Reach out and let’s get your wardrobe first-impression ready!

29May

Why You Should Establish Your Own Signature Style

May 29, 2019 Melrose Fisher

What do some of the most powerful people in the world have in common? From the founders of tech companies, to celebrities, to political figures, some of the most influential people in the world define and maintain their own signature style.

Johnny Cash wore black. His signature style was summed up in his words as, “rebellion against the status quo.”

Steve Jobs is well-known for wearing his standard uniform consisting simply of a black turtleneck and jeans.

Albert Einstein wore gray suits. He didn’t want to waste “brain power” on deciding what to wear each day.

A pioneer of androgynous style, Marlene Dietrich is famously known for her penchant for menswear.

When you hear the name Jackie O, you immediately picture the chicly dressed former First Lady, most notably seen in her signature pillbox hats and boxy Chanel suits.

No matter your profession or lifestyle, creating and maintaining a signature style can make a lasting impact, from basic functionality to self–expression.

Developing a signature style can be the hallmark of your individuality.

What you wear can become your personal brand. A signature style can be an empowering way to step into your authentic truth. Almost every fashion icon in history has created a recognizable signature style, from Audrey Hepburn to Madonna. But, you don’t have to be a style icon to have a signature style. You can set yourself apart from others. You can be a memorable person in the industry you work in. Clothing should be a way to express yourself, first and foremost. Creating a signature style makes you appear more confident in the eyes of others, too.

Your reputation comes from repetition.

Creating a signature style doesn’t have to mean wearing the same thing every day, nor does it mean always wearing a bold, over the top outfit. The key is consistency. It can be a certain color, style of clothing, or signature accessory. Not only does this consistency create your signature style, but it also has many practical applications. Consistency in your wardrobe makes shopping and dressing easier! How wonderful would it be to have a clear idea of what you need to buy and always know that you can effortlessly create stunning outfits?

You can shop smarter.

Have you heard of the 80/20 rule? We typically wear 20% of our clothing 80% of the time. Not only does this mean we buy things we rarely wear, but it also means that our daily outfit choices get stagnant. If you choose to create and maintain a signature style, you will likely wear more of the clothes in your closet, and you will be able to match more outfits together in an aesthetically pleasing way. You will choose the best quality every time, because you know you can invest in pieces that you will wear long term. There will be no room for poorly fitting clothes. When you shop with your personal style in mind, you will only choose pieces that fit your lifestyle, flatter your body, and make you feel confident.

The Final Word on Creating a Signature Style

Need some assistance? If creating a signature look sounds fantastic but seems like a daunting task, then I can help. Together we can refine your personal style into something that will work for you. We can work on keeping everything that fits your personal style and getting rid of anything that dilutes it. Set yourself apart from the rest, simplify your life, and step into your authentic self. Call or email me to set up an appointment at your convenience.

03May

Building a Closet with a Sturdy Base

May 3, 2019 Melrose Fisher

Figuratively speaking, of course. Although we love a good DIY project, we’re here to help you renovate your wardrobe, not your house! While trends come and go, there are some wardrobe essentials that could last a lifetime. Having a few neutral staples in your closet sets the foundation for a classic wardrobe.

Here are 5 pieces we recommend to make getting dressed easy and effortless:

1. Fitted Camisole

A camisole in a neutral color can serve many purposes. It can be the base piece in a layered look, under an embellished jacket or cardigan. It can be a modesty layer under a sheer blouse. And, done in a fabric with some stretch, it can also double as shapewear to help smooth things out under a fitted dress or tunic, for example.

2. Your Favorite White Blouse

This should be the piece that, when you ‘have nothing to wear,’ you can always turn to your favorite white blouse. Classic, yet chic, a crisp white blouse can be worn sleeves-rolled and paired with jeans for a casual look, dressed up with a skirt and heels for cocktails, or ready for a board meeting with slacks and a blazer.

3. Light Cardigan

A light cardigan can help you transition from the summer heat to the blasting a/c indoors, or from heated rooms to the lower temps brought in by the colder months. You know- that ‘chill’ that you get from being in the cold; it’s hard to shake and often lingers throughout the day. A light cardigan is easy to throw in your bag or have handy in your car so you can pull it out and put it on whenever you feel that chill coming on.

4. LKD – “Little Knit Dress”

We’ve all heard of the “Little Black Dress” but a “Little Knit Dress” can be just as valuable, if not more so! A knit dress is perfect for virtually any occasion. Worn with flats and a ponytail, your little knit dress will take you out for a day of shopping, running errands around town, or brunch with the girls. And, paired with heels and fabulous jewelry, a little knit dress can be made appropriate for the office, after-work drinks, or your weekend dinner date.

5. White Denim

You may already have a pair of classic blue jeans in your closet, but have you considered what white denim can do for you? White denim jeans are classic, yet chic. They can be dressed up or dressed down when paired with the right blouse, shoe, and jewelry. And, remember your mom’s rule, “No white until Memorial Day” – Consider that old-fashioned because the runways have loved seeing white denim worn all year round!

If you’re unsure of where to begin when putting together the ‘essentials’ for your closet, the pieces above are a good starting point. And, you should notice a theme when looking at the pieces we’ve shown here. The key to building a ‘sturdy’ foundation for your closet is to choose pieces in neutral colors. Keeping your basics ‘basic’ will ensure you get a longer life out of each piece. If you need further help or would like our suggestions, send us a message and we’ll make sure you have everything you need to create a wardrobe with a timeless foundation.

17Apr

5 Reasons Why You Need to Understand Your Unique Body Type

April 17, 2019 Melrose Fisher

Clothing trends change rapidly and it can be tempting to wear a new trend. The question you need to ask yourself is, “How will it look on me?” Perhaps one of the reasons why trends come and go so easily is because not everyone benefits from wearing them.

We’ve all had that moment when we see a new clothing trend in a magazine or on another woman and think how fantastic it looks. Admiring a trend and trying it for ourselves is a huge hit or miss and, inevitably, not all trends flatter everyone. Finding something that you love on the clothing rack but then loathe on yourself is disappointing. So, what can we do to totally avoid that disheartening dressing room moment?

The answer is: Know your body.

Bodies come in all shapes and sizes; every woman is unique. You can find the shape that closely matches your own with “The Foolproof Way to Find Out Your Real Body Type”. By identifying your body type, you can then read on to learn what types of clothing to choose and what styles to leave behind.

Here are the 5 Reasons Why You Need to Understand your Unique Body Type:

1. You will always look your absolute best

Knowing how to make your body look horizontally and vertically proportioned will flatter your body type. Each outfit will be balanced, perfectly fitting, and virtually made for you. You can forget about feeling uncomfortable, looking bad in photos, or worrying that you don’t look fabulous.

2. Play up your assets

Certain clothing can emphasize the body parts you love. By simply knowing which styles match your body shape, you can highlight the curves you feel good about. Examples include hourglass–shaped women wearing waist–cinching styles to emphasize their curves, or apple-shaped women showing off their legs.

3. Minimize your flaws

We spend a lot of time trying to hide our flaws, but it gets much easier when we buy clothes that automatically flatter us. One extra perk is that you won’t be creating flaws by wearing the wrong things. Wearing the right pieces can balance out your body by highlighting the good and minimizing the bad.

4. Create outfits with ease

You will be able to easily decipher lengths, cuts, and styles that fit you best. Shopping will be much easier and, if you hate online shopping, it will become less stressful. You’ll save time and money by knowing what’s right for you and leaving all of the rest. Shop by style when you know the go-to pieces that make your body look great.

5. You can build a killer wardrobe

Out with the old and in with the new and flattering! Much of our wardrobe typically can go neglected while we stick with the pieces we’re comfortable with. If you create a wardrobe based on your body type, you can never go wrong.

Still need some help?

If this is all too complicated and you still feel like you need some help with dressing for your body type, that is what I am here for. The most effective way to understand your body type is to take measurements and help from a Personal Stylist. As always, I am available when you have questions or you want to make an appointment.

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