The Closet Coach

Site Spotlight: Taking a style journey with J’s Everyday Fashion

Closet Coach — Thu, 17 May 2012 14:00:31 +0000

This month in the Site Spotlight is J of J’s Everyday Fashion, a style and fashion advice blog that shows you how to translate professionally styled looks from catalogs and magazines into outfits anyone can wear. I especially like her description of her blog as a “safe place for style questions.” Don’t we wish every site were like that?

About J

My professional background is in corporate marketing. I lost my job due to the economy about 6 months into blogging and decided to do J’s full-time. I am now a successful entrepreneur and freelancer.

The blog is my full-time job, and along with my position as the Shopping Expert for VISIT FLORIDA, I do retail consulting for one of my favorite brands, a makeover show on IzonOrlando, personal shopping and closet consultations, and lots of public speaking throughout the year.

Above all, my goal is to provide content that helps women with their style journey. There is so much joy in looking great, and I feel honored to be a part of that for women across the globe!

About J’s Everyday Fashion

J’s Everyday Fashion was created to be an accessible, all-inclusive fashion destination, no matter who you are or where you are from. I want everyone to feel welcome to enjoy fashion as much as I do.

We’ve all made fashion mistakes, and we all struggle with bad shopping habits, body issues, small budgets, or even just having enough time to dedicate to getting dressed.

J’s is a place to talk about those issues and get inspired for new ways to conquer the ever-daunting question of “what should I wear?”

What she writes about

J’s Everyday Fashion provides outfit ideas, budget tips, shopping resources, and is a safe place for style questions. The purpose of J’s is to provide an accessible, pared-down version of fashion that makes anyone feel welcome to give it a try.

I share fashion disasters, experiments and successes, all in the hopes of passing along what I’m learning to my readers.

Her favorite posts

[Site Spotlight is a feature on the third Thursday of every month that brings you a new or noteworthy style and fashion blog.]

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Thanks to J for participating in this month’s Site Spotlight, and thank you for reading. Did you like this post? Please leave a comment or share it with someone else; just use the handy sharing widget below.

(Want to get more shopping tips and fun insider stuff? Join The Style List. It’s like a secret club in your email inbox! And when you join, you’ll get my free email series, 7 Days to Better Shopping. It’s my gift to you!)

Outfit photo + review: Beach chic from Fresh Produce [Level 2]

Closet Coach — Wed, 16 May 2012 15:00:36 +0000

I like to think I have a consistent personal style. I favor clean lines, fitted garments, classic cuts and minimalist design. There’s a reason why I love Calvin Klein so much :)

So I was surprised when Fresh Produce asked me if I’d like to review an item of their clothing. At first glance, their aesthetic is quite different: simple, loose silhouettes in soft knits and bright colors.

Unsure what to choose for a review, I looked through the site. That’s when I found the Effortless Dress. As soon as I saw it, visions of the beach danced in my head.

I chose the color Reef, which is a vibrant lime green. I liked that it had the feeling of the very current neon trend without being so bright that it would be instantly out of style next week.

(Two other things I like: most of Fresh Produce’s clothing is made in the USA and founder and designer Mary Ellen Vernon is a female entrepreneur.)

When the dress arrived, I was surprised to discover that it wasn’t just an ordinary cotton knit. The little bit of added Lycra gives the fabric a smoother feel, heavier weight and much more fluid drape than a typical cotton dress.

When I put it on, it fit perfectly and felt great; it really is comfortable, especially in its normal unbelted state. (I’m wearing a size Small, which the size chart says is the equivalent of a 6-8.)

Although I’d originally imagined it as an easy-to-pack option for summer beach travel–and I still think I’ll get most of my wear from it in a casual setting–here I’ve dressed it up to wear to meet friends at the movies.

Silver seemed a perfect companion for a bright, cool color so I went all silver in my accessories: necklace, belt and shoes.

If this kind of simple, casual everyday clothing speaks to your personal style, Fresh Produce might be a great option for you, too.

[Disclosure: All reviews are my honest and unbiased opinion regardless of product source. I do not write paid reviews. The Effortless Dress was provided to me courtesy of Fresh Produce.]

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Why your flaws are really assets

Closet Coach — Tue, 15 May 2012 15:00:31 +0000

We women seem to spend a ridiculous amount of time focusing on what’s “wrong” with our bodies, and what we can do to hide our flaws or erase them completely. (Just read the cover lines on any women’s magazine, just about any month.)

But where does that get us, other to further internalize feelings of insufficiency?

This is a call to change your thinking, to change our thinking.

What if you stopped thinking about the attributes of your body that make you uniquely yourself as flaws?

What if you not only accepted them, but saw them as assets?

What if your “minuses” were pluses?

It’s not just positive thinking. There is plenty of historical and personal precedent, if you only stop to think about it.

Marilyn Monroe turned the mole on her upper lip into a signature beauty mark–and so did Cindy Crawford, years later.

Lauren Hutton refused to fix the space between her front teeth and graced countless magazine covers.

Brooke Shields made thick eyebrows the height of fashion–and Arizona Muse has brought them back.

For every girl who’s “too tall,” there’s another who stalks the catwalks at 5’10” or the basketball court at 6’2”.

For every girl who was called “chicken legs” in elementary school, there’s another who’s glad to have slender legs today.

For every girl who takes a straightening iron to her curly locks, there’s another subjecting her hair to hot rollers or perms.

Everything about your body that makes you unique on the outside is no more a flaw than the things that make you unique on the inside: your sense of humor, the way you write or draw or sing or dance, the way you’re there for your friends and family.

Confession #1: I’m the “chicken legs” girl (5th grade classmate to me: “Are those your legs or are you riding on a chicken?”). And I’m not always good about practicing what I preach.

Confession #2: I have an 8-year-old daughter and I struggle to find the right words when she criticizes some part of her appearance–and, even worse, when she reports that some other girl has done so.

So maybe this is a better headline for this post: Love yourself the way you want your daughter to.

Your turn

What have you learned to love about your body?
What would you say to a young girl to help her love herself just the way she is?

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(Want to get more shopping tips and fun insider stuff? Join The Style List. It’s like a secret club in your email inbox! And when you join, you’ll get my free email series, 7 Days to Better Shopping. It’s my gift to you!)

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Outfit photo: DVF wrap dress variation #2 [Level 4]

Closet Coach — Wed, 09 May 2012 15:00:50 +0000

I call Level 4 of the 5 Levels of Working Mom Outfits “Client Meeting” because it instantly communicates a specific kind of dressed-up-for-the-office. No matter how casual the workplace, we tend to dress better when we’re going to be meeting with our clients and customers.

That’s exactly what this outfit was for. It doesn’t get much career dressier than a DVF wrap dress, does it?

Once again, I was looking for ways to make this sleeveless wrap more office appropriate. In the winter I put a turtleneck underneath; for spring, a T-shirt did the trick.

It was neither warm enough nor the appropriate situation to skip hose, so I opted for these tights in a lighter taupe rather than the chocolate brown ones I wore in colder weather.

Because the dress is a pattern of black and brown, I went with contrasting black shoes. I love the shape of these!

The perfect jacket to go with the dress was this cream-colored faux leather one from the Limited. It almost looks like the jacket and dress were made to go together!

T-shirt: Gap (similar, $15, American Apparel).
Dress: Diane Von Furstenberg (similar, $218, Bluefly).
Jacket: The Limited (similar, $50 on sale)
Necklace: Stella & Dot (similar, $54 on sale)
Shoes: Indigo by Clarks Plush Weave ($109.99, Zappos).

Working Mom Outfit Level: 4/Client Meeting

[Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links.]

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Best boutiques for the curvy girl: Where to find stylish plus-size clothes online

Closet Coach — Tue, 08 May 2012 15:55:42 +0000

Best Boutiques for the Curvy Girl by closetcoach

When Lena Bryant first began creating and offering clothing for larger women over 100 years ago, she could hardly have imagined the breadth and range of plus size labels that would one day exist (or the amazing success of her Lane Bryant stores).

Now there are more choices than ever. The hardest part, in fact, may be figuring out where to start!

Here are some of the best places to shop online for stylish clothes in the plus-size range, usually considered to be size 14-24.

The standard-bearers. Devoted entirely to plus size fashions, Lane Bryant actually began as a maternity shop before expanding into-and then focusing entirely on–plus size clothing. You can find a Lane Bryant store, and/or relative newcomer Avenue, at just about every mall.
Subsidiaries of larger brands. Many brands now offer either plus size sister brands (Torrid, ASOS Curve, Eloquii by the Limited) or plus size ranges of their primary brands (like Old Navy, which goes up to size 30 in its Women’s Plus, or Fresh Produce Plus Size).
Unique boutiques. For truly unique options, search for plus sizes on Etsy; what you find may be one-of-a-kind.
Multi-brand stores. Some online boutiques that sell clothes from multiple labels include offerings in plus-size ranges. You can search for plus sizes on Zappos and ModCloth’s sizing goes up to 4X (U.S. size 22).
Department store departments. Visit any department store website and you’ll find a section or “shop” devoted to plus sizes, from Nordstrom to Macy’s to Neiman Marcus.
Specialty lines. Plus size garments aren’t limited to dresses, tops and pants, either. Brazen Lingerie offers plus-size unmentionables and Always for Me sells swimsuits and lingerie in sizes 14W-24W.

As with any online shopping, price ranges and quality varies from brand to brand. Once you find a line that works best on your body, start your searches for new garments there (and sign up for the store’s email list so you can be the first to get notices of new sales and styles).

Your turn

If you’re plus size, where do you shop online?
Are any of these sites your favorite?

What to buy

Short cocktail dress
asos.com

Flutter-sleeve Top
eloquii.com

Old Navy halter top
oldnavy.gap.com

Ruffled Surplice Sundress
lanebryant.com

[Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links.]

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Gap Perfect Bootcut jeans really are [Level 1]

Closet Coach — Wed, 02 May 2012 15:55:09 +0000

My friend Jenn was the first to discover Gap’s Perfect Bootcut jeans. So when I went looking for another pair of this always flattering cut of denim, I thought I’d give Perfect Bootcut a try.

She was right!

The secret, I think, is in two things.

First–just as in premium brands costing twice as much–there’s just enough stretch in the soft denim fabric to act like shapewear where you need it most.

Second, the waistband is wide. It wraps around your middle section like a built-in belt, adding to the shapewear effect. And it also means that even though the top edge comes up to just below the belly button (a plus to those of us with non-flat bellies, which is 99% of us, amirite?) the bottom edge starts where you’d expect the waistband on low-rise jeans to be, so they don’t look like overly high waisted mom jeans.

All of which makes them perfect for Fab Mom weekend wear, like this. Put on heels and a dramatic choker necklace and I’d be off to Date Night.

(And nope, this isn’t a sponsored post. I don’t write those. But if the Gap happened to see it and felt like sending another pair of Perfect Bootcuts my way, I wouldn’t turn them down, cough cough … :)

T-shirt: Gap (similar, $16.50, LOFT).
Denim: Gap 1969 Perfect Bootcut ($69.95).
Shoes: Kate Spade (similar, $137, 6pm.com)
Working Mom Outfit Level: 1/Weekend Casual

[Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links.]

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How to shop your mom’s closet (or your grandmother’s)

Closet Coach — Tue, 01 May 2012 13:00:54 +0000

If you’re really lucky when you shop your mom’s closet, you’ll find vintage ’70s Halston, like this.

One of the best ways to expand your wardrobe without breaking the bank is to incorporate non-new pieces, such as those from a vintage, consignment or thrift store.

But there’s an even better way to do that, and it doesn’t cost a dime.

If you’re lucky enough to be the same size, look for fashion discoveries hidden in your mom’s wardrobe–or even your grandmom’s or aunt’s. (It helps if she doesn’t clean her closet out every year and give it all away to Goodwill!)

Here’s how to shop your mom’s closet

Retro is modern. Many looks from the ‘80s, ‘70s and even the ‘60s are popping up on runways today. Think wide-legged pants or mod, color-blocked shift dresses. See if your mom has any of these tucked away.
Dresses are a do. Of all the garment types, dresses are usually the easiest to pull off in vintage shapes and styles. A ‘70s maxi dress probably won’t look as clearly dated, for example, as super ‘70s bell-bottoms or platform shoes. And some dress silhouettes (like that maxi dress) don’t require the fit to be as exact as pants or a top would.
Don’t forget accessories. Has your mom cleaned out her closet? Try her jewelry box. She may have kept heirloom or vintage necklaces, bracelets and earrings longer than a pair of pants that seemed too dated.
One piece at a time. If you hit the treasure trove, congratulations! But don’t make entire ensembles out of your discoveries. One vintage piece, or even two (if one is an accessory), looks retro cool. Several vintage pieces together can make you look like you’re an extra from the set of a historical documentary.

As for me, I once had a super cool ’60s skirt suit of my mom’s. Alas, I outgrew it (darn you, Freshman 15!)–but even worse, I didn’t keep it. Even if I couldn’t put it on any more, I’d love to have it as a memento of the times; and who know, my daughter might have fit into it one day!

Your Turn

Have you inherited any special pieces of clothing from your mother, grandmother or other older female relative?
How do you incorporate previously worn or vintage clothing into your wardrobe?

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Outfit post: Fab Mom Style Upgraded T-shirt, jeans and casual shoes [Level 2]

Closet Coach — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 13:00:05 +0000

This week is my second of two outfits demonstrating the Fab Mom Style Upgrade for jeans, T-shirt and casual shoes. (The first one is here.)

Once again, I chose a fitted, solid color T-shirt. I have several of these crewneck style tees; they’re so basic and versatile.

Last week I wore wide-legged trouser style jeans; this week I’m going in the opposite direction with black skinny leg jeans. I love these cobra patterned Habituals, which explains why you’ve seen them before. They have the versatility of jeggings without being so body-unforgiving.

(By the way, if you compare the two photos, you can see how the two pant leg silhouettes affect the perception of my body shape differently. I look a lot curvier in the hips with the skinnier jeans. Just another example of why it helps to understand your body shape and how different garment types will fit and flatter it differently, whether you want to minimize your curves or accentuate them.)

I kept the overall outfit simple, and feeling a little bit French, with a green scarf at the neck to match the shirt, and little black flats to match the pants. Ooh la la!

T-shirt: LOFT (Similar, $66, Michael Stars).
Skinny jeans: Habitual Cinch Hi-Rise Skinny (similar, $159, Bloomingdales).
Shoes: DKNY Pure (similar, $66, Zappos)
Scarf: Gap (similar, $33, The Limited)
Working Mom Outfit Level: 2/Weekend Chic

[Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links.]

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How to give your casual shoes a Fab Mom Style Upgrade

Closet Coach — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 13:00:35 +0000

Fab Mom Style Upgrade: Casual shoes by closetcoach

So you’ve upgraded your jeans and you’ve upgraded your T-shirt. You’re ready to step out the door looking like a Fab Mom, even if you’re only running errands.

And then you put on a pair of beat up running shoes–or, ack, Croc clogs–and your whole outfit instantly drops a notch.

It’s time to give your casual shoes a Fab Mom Style Upgrade, too.

Go classic. On the list of classic pieces for any wardrobe, right up there with the LBD, are ballet flats. Channel Brigitte Bardot (and max out your credit card) with a pair of the original ballet flats by Repetto. Or find similar styles from just about every major footwear brand.
Be sporty. Keeping the trainers for the gym doesn’t mean you can’t opt for sportier casual shoes. Puma and Nike, for example, have myriad options; look for categories called “flats” or “lifestyle” when searching online.
Break out of the usual. Despite the thousands of options out there, it can definitely be a challenge to find a pair that speaks style. Look for embellishment or unusual detail or a sassy print (think leopard!).

You don’t even have to give up your Crocs completely. If you like the feel of the clogs, leave them for gardening; the brand now has many more fashionable options for casual wear.

And now you know how to be a Fab Mom from head to toe.

What to buy

Adidas Asheni by Stella McCartney
$110 - couture.zappos.com

Toms Gisele leopard flat
$79 - toms.com

Puma Winning Diva Bling Ballerina sporty flats
$65 - zappos.com

Puma El Ace ballerina flats
$55 - zappos.com

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Double Tongue Ox low-cut sneakers
$35 - 6pm.com

Restricted Cape Cod Loafer
$50 - endless.com

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Outfit post: Fab Mom Style Upgrade example outfit 1 [Level 2]

Closet Coach — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 13:00:24 +0000

If you’ve been reading my series on giving yourself a Fab Mom Style Upgrade you know that last week we talked about T-shirts and yesterday we covered jeans.

You might even know that next Tuesday I’ll be wrapping up the series with flats. (The shoes, not the tires.)

So for today’s outfit post–and next Wednesday’s, too–I thought I’d demonstrate an outfit that combines all three. Walking the walk, if you will.

I’ve had this Banana Republic T-shirt for ages; because I’m a triangle or pear shape (hips larger than shoulders/bust), I find the boatneck particularly flattering. (Here’s why: How to buy a T-shirt for the pear shape.)

These trouser style jeans are new, thanks to a sale score at LOFT. Because I already have more than one pair of bootcut jeans, I’ve added wider legged denim trousers like this to my wardrobe as well. I wear them to work or on the weekend when I want to feel a bit dressier while still wearing denim.

The flats are a sale splurge (is that a thing?): leopard print Stuart Weitzmans. I’m here to tell you, leopard print is a neutral. They gave this otherwise muted palette outfit a little kick. Brown would’ve worked, too, but wouldn’t have been as interesting, don’t you think?

These particular flats and the Stella & Dot glass bead necklace with ribbon tie closure take this outfit from Level 1 to Level 2; if I were just running to the grocery store, I would skip the necklace. (But I might still wear the flats!)

T-shirt: Banana Republic (similar, $36, Lord & Taylor).
Trouser jeans: LOFT (similar, $50, White House).
Shoes: Stuart Weitzman Lastikon ($285, Endless).
Necklace: Stella & Dot (similar, on sale for $53)
Working Mom Outfit Level: 2/Weekend Chic

[Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links.]

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