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.

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.

03Feb

Fashion Trends that Can’t be Ignored

February 3, 2021 Lots of Luxe

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

Structured Bags

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

Silky Scarves

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

Chunky Chokers

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

Elegant Elbow-Length Gloves

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

Riding Boots

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

Western-Inspired Accents

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

Slim-Silhouette Sunglasses

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

Statement Earrings

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

Simple Suits

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

Polished Patterns

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

12Mar

10 Ideas to Easily Transition Your Wardrobe From Winter to Spring

March 12, 2019 Melrose Fisher

It’s that time of year again – those few weeks between the chilly winter weather and the soon–to–be budding springtime. Dressing for this time of year, or in between any of the seasons for that matter, can be tough.

I’ve created 10 tips to help you transition from winter to spring with ease! The weather might not be predictable, but I can show you how you can work around it while looking flawless no matter the weather.

1. Wear Scarves

There’s still a chill in the air and scarves are great accessory for 2 reasons: they’re fashionable and they’re functional. All you have to do to make your outfit more spring–forward is to add an eye–catching scarf. Try stripes, floral prints, or checked prints in lightweight wool.

2. Choose White

It’s time to add lightness to traditionally dark winter clothing! Adding a pop of white to any outfit brings light to it and it’s super easy to incorporate into your winter wardrobe. Pull out your white blouses and start wearing them more often. Add a necklace with some luster or sparkle and you’ve pulled together a perfect winter to spring look.

3. Show Some Ankle

Jeans are a favorite for any season. When the weather is still cool but slowly warming up, roll up your jeans or choose a cropped length to show some skin. Pair jeans with sandals, sneakers, or pumps.

4. Add Colorful Accessories

It’s time to add a pop of color to your winter wardrobe. A colorful accessory like a bright moto jacket or anorak or a bold bag can instantly transform dark clothing.

5. Denim Jackets

Ditch your heavy coat for a lighter jean jacket for an added spring vibe. Denim is versatile, looks great, and adds a layer for warmth.

6. Lighter Knits

When it’s chilly but you still want to look season-appropriate in spring, reach into your stash of lighter-colored, finer-weight wool sweaters. You can also swap out pants for skirts to wear with light–weight sweaters.

7. Transitional Footwear

Booties and mules are great for winter–spring transition. Show a bit of skin or pair them with nude fishnets or lighter colored tights. Perforated, lighter-colored booties are a great fashion catch if you can find them.

8. Wear Layers

Layering is multi–functional because it looks great and it will help keep you warm when the temperature is still low. When wearing loose knits, layer a tank underneath in silk or polyester. The tank will cut the winter chill that could still be lingering in the air.

9. Put on a Poncho

Ponchos, capes, wraps, or shawls are transitional must-haves. They’re warm, stylish, and they are made for in–between weather. Heading into spring, choose a wrap in a pastel color – baby blue, blush pink, or mint green. Or if you prefer neutrals, look for one in sand or dove gray.

10. Trench Coats

Trench coats are a perfect transitional piece since they are more lightweight than heavy winter coats, yet still provide protection from the elements. Instead of black, go for classic tan or white, or introduce trenches in fresh, unexpected colors or patterns. Checked or striped trenches are also perfect for spring.

Transitional seasons can hang on longer than we’d like. Call me at (919) 819-9054 for a styling session. I’ll pull pieces from your closet to make outfits that look like spring but feel warm enough to wear if winter is lingering. We could also do some shopping to get your wardrobe working all year round. I’m eager to help!

20Feb

Spring 2019 Fashion Trends

February 20, 2019 Melrose Fisher

Spring is an especially celebrated season for many reasons, including in the fashion industry. Spring is a time for new beginnings and for warming up after a long winter. So, in the spirit of spring, here are the trends from Carlisle and ETCETERA for this year’s upcoming season.

Natural Neutrals

In the spring of 2009, Vogue said, “Fashion’s strength this season comes from its quiet authority; dress softly and carry a leopard-spot purse.” Neutrals were big that year and, although neutrals have never left us, they are big again this spring. Neutrals come in all shades of beige: camel, cinnamon, coffee, and chestnut. Earthly neutrals are the perfect basics for building your spring wardrobe. Head-to-toe neutrals are a trendy way to wear a luxe monochrome look. Feel free to add pops of color to neutrals if that’s your thing. Neutrals provide us with plenty of options. Natural colors are graceful and elegant, and they can be easily styled.

Bold Brights

On the flip side of spring’s neutrals, comes spring’s brightest colors. Vibrant shades can enliven your wardrobe whether you choose brights for the office or casual wear. The shades of this season’s brightest colors include taffy, persimmon and all shades in between. Office style gets more than a pop of color this spring. Don’t be afraid to mix spring’s brightest shades for a fun, fabulous look. Color blocking is in style this spring season, and many styles of color blocking are using either bold brights or sandy neutrals–or both for a fresh look.

Fresh Florals

Florals are an absolute spring classic! Florals are far from new, but they are feminine, whimsical, and flirty. Nothing lightens up a wardrobe quite like fun florals. Wearing florals can be casual and light or even dressed up for the office. This year, spring’s blooms come in prints, lace, appliques, and embroidery. If florals aren’t typically your style, try black florals for a more demure look. Edgy black florals are a glamorous way to add flowers to your wardrobe.

Beyond Beige

The season’s new neutrals come in a plethora of earthy shades in a spectrum that flirts with yellow, grey and brown. Neutrals are incredibly easy to work with, especially when adding to your wardrobe. Neutrals can be easily added to build a number of different outfits to choose from.

Think Pink

This spring delivers exciting shades of pink ranging from pale blush to hot fuchsia. Blush is one of the universally flattering colors because, regardless of your skin tone, blush flatters everyone! Wear your favorite shades of pink as solids, stripes, ombre, color blocks, and more. Spring has never looked so bright!

Neutral Ground

Black and white is a classic combination that always delivers. Go graphic this season with a myriad of ways to mix black and white. The elegant and dramatic opposite shades provide a canvas to add to. Black and white clothing comes in color blocks, stripes, solids, and even stunning python. Add a bright scarf or blazer to black and white to automatically upgrade the look.

Bright Lines

This season’s lines go beyond simple stripes, playing with texture and tones for modern twists on a classic. A new take on pinstripes is chic for the office and is a great way to add texture and something new to your wardrobe. Stripes are an easy way to make any outfit a little bolder.

Need A Fresh Spring Makeover?

I’m here to help! If you need a styling consultation to renew and refresh your wardrobe for spring or are in a dilemma with what to wear for a special occasion, it would be my pleasure to help you decipher what you need. Wardrobe styling and shopping when you aren’t sure what exactly you need can be overwhelming and frustrating, but I can take the confusion out of it.

If you’re ready to take your wardrobe to the next level, organize, fill–in, and revitalize your closet, give me a call! Or, get in touch here.

08Jan

How to Build a Dream Wardrobe in 7 Easy Steps

January 8, 2019 Melrose Fisher

Building a wardrobe is a truly daunting task. How many of us can devote the time to create a flawless, versatile wardrobe that never leaves us wondering what to wear?

Most of us buy more and more clothing without consciously building a wardrobe that allows for easy access to outfits for every occasion. If we don’t build a functional wardrobe, then we are likely to end up with a closet filled with clothing to mix and match at random. Of course, it ends in wearing the same outfits repeatedly or obsessing over what to wear.

It’s worth it to create a wardrobe that suits your needs, but you may be wondering where to start. It takes some time and strategy to build a wardrobe, so how is it done?

Starting with your own personal wardrobe stylist; I can help you do each of the following steps in order to build a cohesive, varied wardrobe. The end result will be a wardrobe that suits your lifestyle, flatters your body, and expresses your personal style. Here’s the run-down of the steps to create a dream wardrobe easily and quickly.

Establish Your Body Type

You must know what body type you have before building a wardrobe. We are all unique in shape and size and knowing the types of clothing that suits your body type is crucial to looking flawless all of the time. Finding clothes that flatter your body can boost your confidence and ensure you have a closet full of clothes that make you feel great.

Determine Your Color Palette

Just like with body types, we all have a unique skin tone. Skin tones range from not only light to dark but also cool to warm. Knowing your skin tone is key to knowing which colors enhance your look and which colors don’t. Wearing colors that don’t compliment your skin tone can make you look tired, washed out, or simply not your best. Conversely, choosing the perfect colors for your skin tone can enrich your look automatically.

Shop to Fit Your Lifestyle

It’s important that the clothes in your closet suit your daily needs. We can easily buy clothing that is momentarily trendy on impulse, but does it really suit our lifestyle? For example, a wardrobe filled with 40% career-minded outfits, 30% clothing for social events and outings, 20% leisure, and 10% formal special event attire could be suited for your lifestyle.

Detox and De-Clutter

If you’re going to build a wardrobe you love, you will have to get rid of all of the items that you don’t love. Sort through your closet and remove any ill-fitting, unflattering, out of style clothing. Make room for pieces you’ll love and wear frequently.

Create a Foundation of Basics

Building a wardrobe around classic basics makes dressing simple. Choosing neutral-colored tank tops, black pants, pencil skirts, white button-ups, and cardigans are good basics to build from. Most of your outfits will begin with these basics, so having many on hand will create the foundation you need to build a wardrobe.

Add Statement Pieces

You’ll need to let your personal style shine with statement pieces in the colors and fabrics that you love. These statement pieces can be added to your wardrobe basics for easy pairings. Tailored investment pieces can be added here as well.

Maintain your Wardrobe

You’ll need to add to your wardrobe to keep things fresh. This will ensure you’ll always have something new to wear and new outfits to create. The easiest way to maintain your dream wardrobe is Box of Luxe, a time-saving home delivery box of 4-6 hand-selected pieces of clothing.

If you don’t have time to shop and maintain a wardrobe, this is the answer for you! It’s as easy as completing a quick style profile and your Box of Luxe will be delivered to you filled with pieces that suit your style needs. You’ll have five days to try on the clothing and if you decide something isn’t for you, simply return it hassle-free.

Another option is to schedule a consultation call or to meet me for a cup of coffee. In 30 minutes I can help you determine your wardrobe needs and guide you through the services provided by Lots of Luxe. A Personal Stylist could be your answer to a wardrobe that works.

10Oct

Add These Accessories to Your Fall/Winter Wardrobe

October 10, 2018 Melrose Fisher

When it comes to a new fashion season, the thought of shopping for a new wardrobe might be overwhelming. A great alternative is to choose a few new accessories to make your existing wardrobe feel brand new.

Here are some ways you can do that.

Scarves

The newest style in scarves is long, long, long. Don’t be surprised if you wrap a scarf around your neck and the tails come to your thighs. In addition to long, cozy scarves are blanket scarves. These scarves come in fabrics that are rich, lush and voluminous. Even more than an addition to your wardrobe, they can become the main attraction of your outfit.

Fingerless Gloves

You know we need our fingertips free for on-demand texting. This accessory is functional and beautiful when it’s in velvet or suede. Choose gloves that come close to the elbow for glamorous flair. Have fun with all the colors available to you.

Tights

Black tights or bare legs are so last years. Branch out into tights of many hues. Wear them with your skirts and dresses for pure fun. If colorful tights are too bold for you a lace tight will update your look.

Hats

Hats add so much personality and punctuation to your outfit. Maybe start by identifying your favorite historical period. Styles include the sombrero, the cowboy hat, the matador, the fedora, and other wide-brimmed styles. Do you prefer caps? Try one in plaid. Use hats to express your personal style. This could be the accessory you wear all season.

Statement Earrings

Are you ready to make a statement? “Ears” how to do it (wink, wink). Big on the earring scene are oversized double and triple hoops. Feathers flock the ear whether they’re real feathers or silver ones. Large jeweled crosses bring lots of bling. Tassels continue to adorn the ear.

Statement Necklaces

Or should we say necklaces! Whether you layer multiple necklaces from your collection or buy one that does all the layering for you, this look could cover your whole décolleté area. This look may not be best on a larger chested person. You decide if you’re a good candidate for this trend. Other choices are chokers high on the neck or necklaces layered over turtlenecks.

Statement Bracelets

Bracelets aren’t just for summer over bare arms. Wear bracelets of different widths and stack them on your wrist or on top of your sweater sleeve. A very pretty look is to wear large cuffs full of lustrous colors. A cardigan, jacket, or coat with three-quarter sleeves is just begging for a statement bracelet or two or three.

Belts

Belts ruled the runway. Looks included buckle belts, leather belts, tie belts, corset belts, bustier belts, and the doubling up of belts. Use any of these on coats, dresses, or skirts of any length. Consider wearing belts that contrast with your outfit colors or choose one in animal print.

Purses

Logo purses are big for fall. Enter the fanny pack, the belt purse or the backpack. For ladylike looks, go for a framed handbag. If you have a busy running-around lifestyle, a tote may be best for you. A new purse adds so very much to your look. Getting a new one could be your number one fashion priority.

To ease into the season, consider starting with accessories. I can help you find the right ones or help you begin to incorporate them into your transition wardrobe before all the woolens come out. The great thing about accessories is that you can start wearing them right away! Let’s get a date on the calendar, okay?

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