AK Personal Styling & Shopping

Pant Lengths & How to Wear them...

2017-02-15T10:13:00.000-05:00

With so many different pant options available for purchase, it's hard to know which will flatter your body the most and the types of shoes and shirts you should pair with each. Luckily, I've got you covered. Check out my tips below to find the right fit for you!

Capri Pants
Although these pants are typically reserved for warmer weather, I think a pair of bold, cuffed capri trousers or cute, cropped skinny jeans are great for day looks this time of year. If you're on the shorter side (like me!), wear them with ankle booties or a closed-toe wedge heel, and throw on a neutral button-down blouse and minimal accessories to complete the look. Work-chic!

Ankle Pants
Similar to capri pants except a bit longer, ankle pants hit exactly where you'd think: right at your ankles! Women with shorter legs tends to shy away from this style, but truthfully, any girl can rock 'em since it's more about the shoes you choose than anything else. As a rule of thumb, bear in mind that heels always elongate your legs, so if you're concerned about looking short or stumpy, don't wear flats! Otherwise, oxfords or ballet flats look great with ankle pants.

Full-length Pants
These are by far the most common length of pants and literally look fab on every shape and size. For that reason, they can be paired with practically any type of shirt and shoe, giving you endless options when it comes to putting together fashion forward outfits. Do some experimenting to discover which styles complement your legs the most: skinny, straight leg, wide leg or perhaps boot cut?

Shorts
Shorts come in a variety of lengths - some are barely there, whereas others hit close to your knees. My personal favorite for a night out is a pair of little leather or scalloped lace shorts. Worn with a pretty, long sleeve silk (or chiffon) blouse and some sky-high pumps, they create the ideal outfit for a night out on the town! But remember ladies, these are usually best for the younger gals - make sure you are age-appropriate!

Makeover packages make a great gift for the holidays...

2016-11-22T11:47:00.000-05:00

The holiday season is upon us again, so this is the perfect time to treat that someone special in your life to a makeover. What better way to start the New Year than to give yourself or a loved one a fresh start and a fresh look?

I can help do that with the many different packages I offer. From Closet Audits to Mommy Makeovers or Special Occasion Shopping, whatever your needs are, I can help you get the look you want.

I am offering special deals for the holidays, so please call me to find out more about how you can make your loved one's day by giving them a gift certificate for a personal makeover! Most people are so busy taking care of others that they put themselves last on the list - so maybe now it's time they took the time to do something for themselves, or maybe you can help them get started. I promise you, people feel so good when they actually take the time to do something for themselves. A Style Consultation could be just the right gift to get your loved one motivated again and have them spend time on working on themselves. Let me help start the journey to feeling better about who they are!

Remember that gift certificates can be redeemed anytime, so there's no expiration date to worry about. Also, don't just assume that this is a gift for women only! Men also need an overhaul sometimes so surprise him with a gift to get that new look!

Call me now to find out more about this unique and worthwhile gift on 412-996 5200.

Outfits for your Thanksgiving Day!

2016-11-21T20:18:00.000-05:00

Is it just me or can it be difficult to come up with cute and comfortable Thanksgiving dinner outfits? You want to look stylish but not overdone, and you also want to be comfy and have enough room to eat as much pumpkin pie as possible! Am I right? Well here are three outfit ideas for you to think about for your Thanksgiving dinner this week.

Heading to your in-laws or significant others' for dinner and need to look chic but not overdone? Try a wrap dress and heels. The last thing you want to do is wear something that is overtly sexy or seriously slovenly! These two pieces are polished but take little effort to put together. Also, the wrap dress is a universally flattering piece, so you won't go wrong with this choice!

Just hanging with your family? Leggings, an oversized sweater and comfy flats should do nicely. Your pants and top enable you to hide that food bump (hey, it happens!), while flats are easy to kick off should you decide to take a mid-afternoon nap!

Staying put for a simple Friendsgiving instead? Jeans, a blazer, t-shirt and ankle boots are your best bet. It's essentially what you could wear to any other laid-back dinner party.

So you see, there's no need to panic about what you're going to wear to Thanksgiving dinner this year. There's an outfit for every scenario, whether formal or casual. But remember that more important than what you're going to wear, is to be thankful for all the blessings in your life, and enjoy this precious time with family and friends. ENJOY!!!

Ways to Sparkle this season...

2016-11-17T11:45:00.000-05:00

With party season almost upon us and holiday invitations coming in, now is truly your time to shine! Whether you like a lot of bling or just a little, the holiday season is the perfect excuse to either go all-out mega bling or small but still sparkly!

Sparkle was supercharged on the runways this season, with designers like Oscar de la Renta and Vera Wang putting the spotlight on shimmer! Whether crystal clusters, shimmering sequins, costume gems and elaborate embellishments, everything from statement sweaters to fancy footwear got the glam treatment!

To perfect your show-stopping style this festive season, take a peek at these collections to help you shimmer and shine at your holiday parties!

How to look great in Winter Whites...

2016-11-07T14:17:00.000-05:00

We're no longer living by the no-white-after-Labor-Day rules - save for being a guest at your best friend's wedding, there really are no rules when it comes to wearing your white pieces. That said, there can be a little trepidation around wearing the color during Winter - but now it's time to change that! Read on to find out how you can make the most out of your winter white clothing!

Contrast your basics...a creamy mohair sweater has a quintessentially Winter feel. Contrast this cozy top with soft leather pants (very on-trend right now!), and a pair of studded loafers, then add a pair of pretty earrings for an everyday outfit with a little pizzaz!

Go boho...create a bohemian Winter look by pairing a furry vest (fake fur of course!), with a long white maxi. Layer up with your favorite popover and style it up with a bucket bag and easy ankle boots.

Make a statement...give white denim cool-girl edge by pairing your seasonal pullover with biker boots and a statement satchel - and don't forget your shades for those cold but sunny days!

Add some edge...make your LWD (little white dress) appropriate with a leather jacket and booties that speak to the season with luxe shearling lining.

Go white on white...don't be afraid to embrace white on white. A creamy sweater feels extra fresh against skinny white bottoms, standout jewels, and a pair of edgy ankle boots.

Be chic in white...one of my favorites is to top my outfit with a white or creamy winter coat. There's something about a white winter coat that screams luxurious, and it feels so good. Pair with a bright scarf and luxe leather gloves for that classy winter look!

Lace Looks to try this season

2016-11-03T11:01:00.000-04:00

With the party season looming I'm sure many of you are getting all decked out in your finery for the different social events you have to go to. But some of you may also be struggling with what different looks to put together for these parties, as obviously you can't possibly be seen in the same outfit more than once, right?

Well instead of trimming yourself with glitter, crystals and sequins, how about you deck out your dressy ensemble with romantic lace to set the right tone for all your festive functions? There's something inherently feminine and festive about lace - it's ladylike and shows just enough skin to make it party appropriate. Lace can be done in so many different ways, not just the staple lace dress that we see everywhere! Be different with how you add lace to your party outfit with a lace overlay, or lace pants as shown by Tom Ford. See how the designers did lace on this season's runways to take inspiration or your holiday attire.

Lace Overlay at Valentino

Lace Top at Tom Ford

Embellished Lace at Dolce & Gabbana

Lace Peek-a-Boo at Emilio Pucci

Lace Trimmed at Louis Vuitton

Shimmering Lace at Badgley Mischka

Colored Lace at Erdem

Sheer Lace at Barbara Bui

Lace Skater Dress at Alice & Olivia

Lace Coat at Jason Wu

Lace LBD at Elie Saab

Lace Pants at Tom Ford

Shades of Pink & Red for Fall...

2016-11-01T14:12:00.000-04:00

Fall may bring a chill to the air, but this season's color trends will make you feel warm. Envision pinks, blushes and wine tones from your lips to your toes.

Wine

Spice up your wardrobe for Fall with wine-toned pieces ranging from ruby to carmine. The rich shade instantly adds a note of sophistication and opulence to your look. Incorporate this color with leather accessories, garnet-toned jewelry, wine-stained lips and pieces of suede. The intense hue blends well with other autumnal neutrals and is universally flattering, making wine one of this season's most seductive colors.

Deep Pink

While this ultra-feminine color might be traditionally reserved for warm weather, pink is definitely on right now - specifically, a vivid rosy tone that's just a shade more subtle than magenta. This season's deep pink is a grown-up version of the girly tint, with a freshness that is unexpected and modern. Inject a bit of playfulness and warmth into your fall palette with flirty dresses, bags and shoes in bold pink - and don't forget a pretty pink pout!

Halloween outfits...

2016-10-31T10:49:00.000-04:00

I know I'm a 'no fun zone' when it comes to Halloween, but I just can't help it, sorry folks! I've never been a fan of, and don't get the whole madness and excitement that is Halloween, but I guess some people just love to dress up in silly costumes! Anyway, despite my better judgment I am going to at least post some fun pics of celebs in their Halloween costumes over the years. So if you haven't been able to come up with any ideas for your Halloween outfit yet for your party, maybe today's post will give you some ideas and help get you in the mood!

As for me, I'm going to be avoiding the madness! But for all of you who enjoy the day, have fun and stay safe!

Fall's top color trends...

2016-10-29T10:06:00.000-04:00

It's been long understood that Fall is the time to bring out your cozy colors. And by cozy, I mean safe; the blacks, navys and grays that you can get lost in and be totally unself-conscious wearing. This is the time to sink into baggy sweaters and comfy pants, right? No need to worry about how you're going to look in that skimpy sundress anymore (thank goodness!). I too am guilty of playing it safe sometimes with the dark colors and baggy sweaters. But I also love color, especially bold colors, and this year designers are challenging you to don color. There are still ways you can stay comfy and warm while being the bright spot of the day!

It's not about bodycon, but showing off your style in a way that gets you noticed for your skills mixing up shape and form. Ralph Lauren and Stella McCartney used purple to amazing effect, one keeping to slim layers, mixing textures, the other keeping it ultra simple with a flowing dress that could be belted or worn loose, depending on your mood. A few designers decided to borrow Valentino red and make it their own. From a chic little sweater and skirt set to a velvet gown, they show there's truly no wrong occasion to wear the hue. That's not all, check out my favorite color trends for fall. And yes, for all of us who refuse to let go of black and gray, you'll be inspired by interesting styling that will have you thinking twice about your typical go-tos.

Going to the game? Here's what to wear to cheer on your team!

2016-10-27T11:30:00.000-04:00

It's that time of year when sports fans are in their element, especially here in Pittsburgh. Whether you're a football fan cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers or a hockey fan and routing for the Penguins, there's sports madness everywhere! As many of you may or may not already know, I am not a sports fan (I still haven't got my head around American football!), but I will always cheer on the Pittsburgh teams if I happen to be at a special sporting event (which to be honest, is rare!).

Anyway, my lack of sporting awareness aside, I think that it's still important to look the part when cheering on your favorite team! So instead of wearing the usual black & gold colors which are the uniform seen at most sports stadiums here in Pittsburgh, why not try wearing comfy, stylish basics and show off how great Pittsburgh fans can look? Show up at that tailgate party looking fabulous in leggings, and a great comfy slouchy sweater! Footwear can be comfy and chic too, so instead of wearing those sneakers, don a pair of over-the-knee flats. A leather moto jacket would also look great and add an extra layer of warmth. You don't need to overdo it ladies, a simple outfit will do just fine, and trust me, you'll look so much better as you cheer on your team!

Here are four different looks to give you some ideas of what to wear to your next game....

Feather-adorned pieces are a fun must have...

2016-10-26T15:59:00.000-04:00

The 'it' embellishment of the runways were without a doubt feathers. Gorgeous, delicate, and feminine wisps were seen all over the Dries Van Noten runway; Hakaan added feathers to peplums; Gucci used (of course) bigger, bolder feathers on necks, arms and chests. As gorgeous as these looks are, it would be a mistake to think that feather fancy is meant only for the runway.

Retailers have been offering their own versions of this delightful and eye-catching trend, whether it be on a simple black cardigan, a statement necklace, an evening bag, or a mini skirt.

Challenge yourself to add in a feather accent or an entirely feather-adorned piece into your look this fall and winter, you won't be sorry. Check out the looks below from the runways and retailers as a guide.

Brocade for Fall...

2016-10-25T20:02:00.000-04:00

Brocade is a trend that has come and gone over the years, and this fall it's back again with a vengeance! It used to be known as something your grandmother would wear, or a fabric only good for drapes, but not anymore! Now it's become more fashionable than ever as showcased on the recent runways and by celebrities like Lily Collins, who combined two trends in one by opting for a metallic brocade dress.

If your style is more rock chic like Kristen Stewart, try replacing your leather jacket with a brocade blazer to update your style. I loved the way Emma Stone recently wore it - brocade can be a difficult fabric to pull off in the daytime, so she opted for a lighter shade to avoid overwhelming her look. Dakota Fanning added a pair of ankle boots with her brocade dress for an instant style update, and Alexa Chung makes a brocade dress suitable for the office by pairing it with a tailored shirt.

So if you feel like this is a trend you'd like to try this season, don't be afraid to experiment with this opulent fabric that can really add something special to your outfit. Start small if you're unsure, and work your way up to going full-on brocade beautiful!!

Take a look at these pics to see different ways this trend can be done....

Plaid...how to wear it!

2016-10-24T21:46:00.000-04:00

When we think of plaid we think of Scotland, kilts and bagpipes, right? However, plaid can be very stylish when it is worn in the appropriate way. Plaid does not have to be the ultimate symbol of the Scots; it can be funky and even, dare I say it, sexy! Best of all, plaid is perfect for any shape or size. It's so versatile, there's just no reason not to wear plaid! And this year, yet again, it's being seen everywhere!

Plaid can look chic any way you want to wear it. When shopping for a plaid shirt, think about what look you want to convey. Do you want a more clean and tailored look? If this is the case, a form fitted blouse paired with nice tailored pants will keep your look more sophisticated. For a more casual look, instead of a short fitted plaid shirt, go with the oversized, longer button up versions.

Plaid shirts come in a variety of colors and different fabrics, and even the print can vary from smaller "squares" to ones that are more spread apart. The look can get a little overwhelming if the colors are too bright. If you want to play it down, opt for a plaid shirt in subtle muted or neutral colors, like browns, tans, creams, blues and grays.

But let's face it, there's a lot more you can wear than just shirts in plaid! I've seen plaid in dresses, skirts, vests, & pants as well as many accessories. As many of you know, I'm not a huge fan of playing it safe when it comes to being creative with mixing textures, colors and prints. So why play it safe with plaid? Done right you can wear different types of plaid in one outfit - but - it has to be done right otherwise you'll look a hot mess! Think carefully about how you're going to mix plaid on plaid. Will it be different colors of plaid or different sizes in pattern? Take a look at some of these great, and sometimes ecclectic looks and get inspired to try the plaid look now!

Silver is my color pick this month...

2016-10-18T10:07:00.000-04:00

You know one of my favorite things to talk about is color...I love what color can do for an outfit, whether it be the focal point or an accent color. I love bright bursts of color as well as the more subtle muted tones, and today I want to talk about the color silver. It's very popular this season and is very versatile.

You will shine in this versatile metallic, which offers a festive counterpoint to winter's darker hues!

Why I love it - gorgeous and gleaming, silver is a quick way to heighten any ensemble!

How to wear it - a mercury column is perfect for parties. Keep it sophisticated with minimal jewelry (no giant silver hoops), and a neutral bag. For day, add a dash of sparkle. A glimmering shell or shoe is work-ready when mixed with businesslike knit or tweed separates.

Silver plays well with gunmetal, winter white, cobalt, or acid green. Try adding a blue purse - this color accents the metallic's cool undertones.

Remember to adjust your makeup! Try a bright splash of color on your lip with a raspberry-plum shade.

Knits Greatest Hits!

2016-10-17T20:25:00.000-04:00

Today....knits greatest hits! Despite the unseasonal warm weather that we've been experiencing this week (and I'm not complaining about it!), I do love the fall - from the beautiful fall colors and the crisp air to the great knits that I can finally wear. Once the weather reverts back to fall (and trust me, it is coming!), it will be time to review your wardrobe again and get out the fall knits that you've kept hidden during the summer months. For fuss-free cozy-comfy chic, you can't beat the ease and adaptability of these classic pieces.

Cardigan - here's how to spin a yarn! Take a chunky sweater, then add character with a shawl collar and rustic toggles. Pair it with smooth leather for an intriguing mix of textures - and you've got an outfit that lives happily ever after! But there are various ways to wear your fall cardy. Try belting it with a skinny belt to emphasize your waist, or pair it with a pretty cami underneath with a pop of color or a great print. Don't forget that accessories always come in handy here - so remember you can add a pin, scarf or chunky jewelry depending on the kind of look you're aiming for.

Vest - whether you opt for boyish or slinky, this layer can be a focal point. A color-tipped vest calls out the hues in a busy print and unifies the whole look. Keep your accessories neutral - tan and black harmonize and won't distract. Add a belt to finish the look. For a different take, wear a vest with a plunging top, worn with silky trousers. It's both sexy and casual in an off-hand kind of way! For structure, a sharp two-toned clutch and T-strap high heels.

Dress - I love a garment that leaves a lot to the imagination and a knit dress can do just that! You can wear it different ways; wear a strong jacket over a body-skimming silhouette. Pretty accessories like bright jewels and a great scarf will finish off the look. The ideal knit dress offers texture without bulk. You provide the definition, with a wide belt, floppy hat and suede boots.

Tomorrow check in for more knits and how to wear them this season...

The Mod Look? Try it...

2016-10-13T12:32:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite runway trends for fall layering (and you all know that I'm a huge fan of layering!), has to be the overt historical references to Sixties style. While you can find bohemian touches in any number of collections pretty much every season, recent collections are an homage to the bright colors, shift dresses and psychedelic prints of the Mod girl.

I loved some of the looks, and I urge you to look at these for inspiration. Feel free to mix plaid with a mini or a shift; don't be afraid of the psychedelic saturated prints and colors; or for a more sophisticated look try the boxy double-breasted jacket, white knee-high boots and mini skirt a la Salvatore Ferragamo! Proenza Schouler also went the white shoe post-Labor Day route, putting those myths to rest that you can't wear white after Labor Day!

Not sure where to begin for your Mod look? Check out my shopping picks. If all you're trying to do is test the water, I won't hold it against you - a bold patterned tight is just the thing to get you started off right!

Shopping, Style & Saving Tips...

2016-10-12T18:00:00.000-04:00

Today I'm going to share some of my best shopping, style & savings tips. These are things every girl should know before heading out the door on a shopping splurge, but many of you don't know and often end up spending way more money than you had wanted to or anticipated. Armed with these tips you will be able to buy, save and style like a pro!

Shopping tips...

1. You all need the basic staples and pieces that you will wear over and over, as well as being able to mix & match to create different looks. This includes a good blazer, a crisp white shirt, pants, pumps and a skirt. In terms of everything else in your closet, make sure you like it and it fits. The goal is to have a functioning closet where everything else is game.

2. Buy into a trend one piece at a time. A common shopping mistake is overdoing a trend. You don't need a gazillion peter pan collars! Instead, buy one piece and wear it all the time, mixing and matching it with other items in your closet.

3. Don't be seduced by the store display. Clothes are often organized by color and trend, which makes you feel good and draws you in. But before you fall into the buying trap, think: "Do I have something at home to wear with this piece? Or will I need to buy four other things to make it work?"

4. Avoid shopping when you're stressed. When you're really hungry, you shouldn't go to the grocery store - so when you're stressed, don't go shopping! You'll end up making bad buying decisions!

Style tips...

1. Know your sizes! Wearing the correct size in everything from undergarments (your foundation piece!), to jeans will make you look slimmer and more polished. Don't obsess about the number, but on how the clothing looks on you! Squeezing into a size 8 because you refuse to buy a size 10 will not do you any favors!

2. Find a good tailor - you can be wearing the coolest new trends and designers, but if your clothing doesn't fit right, it's a waste. The tailoring can be as simple as cinching in the waist of a dress or jacket or hemming a pair of pants. Believe me, it will make all the difference!

3. Have fun with statement jewelry. It can instantly change an LBD, a basic tee or even a sweatshirt! To get the most bang for your buck, think big: chandelier earrings, a bib necklace, a chunky cuff, a stack of bangles or a cocktail ring. You can buy them cheap at places like Forever 21 and J. Crew!

4. Invest in flattering ankle booties - they're a fashion secret weapon! Try pairing a black leather or suede platform heel with tights or cigarette pants - they lengthen your silhouette and work for day or night.

Savings tips...

1. Buy off-season! If you can wait, it's the best time to shop! Get sundresses and bikinis in November or holiday dresses in January - just stick to classic, timeless styles.

2. Don't go too long without shopping - it's like dieting - if you deprive yourself for a long period of time, you'll end up bingeing the next time you're in a store. It's good to know what's out there, even if that means just window shopping.

3. Don't turn your nose up at shopping at thrift stores or consignment shops, where you can make some great vintage finds! I have found some amazing things at some of these places, including designer (real not fake!) handbags, coats and boots! It may take a little longer to rummage through the racks, but it will be worth it when you find a great Prada piece of clothing for a fraction of the regular price!

4. You can often find great savings if you shop online. A lot of places now offer free shipping, so it's worth browsing online for some good finds!

How to Recycle your Outfits...

2016-10-11T20:35:00.000-04:00

The days of never being seen in the same thing twice are long gone. Even celebrities and royalty (think Kate Middleton) are recycling looks - including gowns. And every time they pull a dress, bag, or scarf from their closet, it's cost per wear goes down! Even if math isn't your strong suit (and I know it isn't mine!), it's a simple equation. Divide the original price by the number of times you plan to wear an item - daily, monthly, bi-annually. If the final figure is close to what you can live with, it's a good purchase. Put simply, if you're going to plop down some serious money, it should be for a piece you're going to wear again and again.

This thought process is one that I'm learning (albeit slowly!). There was a time when I would buy something if I liked it, without giving any thought to how much wear I would get out of it. Now when I look at the ridiculous amount of clothing in my closet, I can honestly say that the majority of items in there have been worn once or maybe twice, and there are a handful of things I wear again and again and were worth every cent!

So what I'm saying is put some thought into what you're going to purchase, especially if it's expensive. Now I will add that there are some things that are timeless and always a good investment, like a good quality coat or a great jacket, but don't go overboard on things that are just a passing trend. Learn to recycle your outfits, and get more wear out of the things you love.

If you have a black dress that you love, there are different ways to wear it. Add a great belt, or a piece of statement jewelry to change the look. I promise you no-one will notice (or probably care!) that you're wearing the same dress. The same thing goes for a great scarf or a bag - pair them with different outfits. You'll be surprised at how creative you can be!

Take a look at how some celebs and royalty recycle their outfits, and give it a try!

Novelty Knits for every age group...

2016-10-10T23:45:00.000-04:00

Cute, sweet and fun are just three words that sum up many of the novelty knits we're seeing this fall. And this look that was seen all over the runways is great if you're young and cute, but if you're in your forties then it's best to stay away from this trend.

Novelty knits that do work for the over 40s are graphic ones, with the dramatic lines and patterns looking more chic than sporting a sweater with a row of puppy dogs! You could also try a zig-zag sweater, with a great mix of colors, cool patterns and body conscious fit that skims your curves.

If you're going to wear a novelty sweater then keep the bottom half simple, as too much will be an overload on the eye and most likely unflattering. For the 20-somethings wearing the cutesy sweaters a safe bet is to keep it simple with a great pair of jeans, blue denim or colored skinnies; for the 40-plus women try a solid pencil skirt or tailored pants to add some chic and simplicity to this look. Accessories should be kept to a bare minimum if at all!!

Here are some looks for every age group....

Fall Denim Trends...

2016-10-08T10:52:00.000-04:00

A couple of days ago I posted about the American staple of Denim. Today I want to continue the conversation and share some of the Fall denim trends that were recently showcased on the runways. And it's going to be a season where anything goes when it comes to wearing denim! Gone are the days where denim was available in few washes, few sizes and no stretch! Thankfully, that's all changed! It's no longer all about a certain cut, color or shape.

Check out some of these new and creative ways to wear denim this Fall.

I love this dress. This piece from Rachel Comey presented a deviation from dark Fall denim with a couple of washed out looks. The lightest of blue also ties in nicely with this fall's pastel looks. This dress, the peplum, the leather gloves...lovely, with some edge all at once!

Look for slouchy, comfy style in stores; it was all over the runways. Good for all the girls who've been pouring themselves into bodycon pieces in forever! This great pair of pants is ideal for running around on the weekend or having Sunday Brunch with the girls!

Patchwork denim is another Fall trend. While some will opt for varying shades, think of lace appliques to add a unique touch. Fabulous!

Studs, denim and punk all go together! Don't be afraid to channel your inner tough girl with a mini studded denim skirt and leather jacket look.

Yes, these jeggings are ultra skinny, but I'm willing to bet they're ultra stretchy too, and provide lots of movement. I particularly love the leather pieces that run down the inner thighs to the ankles that keep these fresh and different from your typical skinnies.

This little mini skirt in a perfect medium-dark chambray is flirty, fun and versatile. While paired with darker colors here, it can definitely be worn with lighter pieces too.

Underneath this amazing fur vest is the chambray button-down. Let it serve as a reminder that your denim shirt needs to stay front and center in your closet this fall. Work it in with vests, jackets, sweaters, cardigans and skirts.

Karen's Wardrobe Makeover

2016-10-06T17:26:00.000-04:00

I recently did a 'closet audit' with new client Karen. Karen contacted me because she felt she needed some help with her current wardrobe, putting outfits together and learning how to accessorize in a way to create new looks.

The wardrobe consultation is perfect for ladies who want to update or freshen up their look with items they already have in their closet, and perhaps by just adding some new accessories and wardrobe staples, a whole new look is made possible with lots more options.

After meeting with Karen and discussing her lifestyle & goals, it became evident that she needed outfits that would transition easily from office to running the kids to their activities and running errands. Many times she doesn't have time to change when she gets home from work and has to rush out, so comfort was key here. She is lucky to work in an environment that is smart/casual and with this in mind it certainly made it easier to put some options together for her. Adding color was also important here, which with her coloring was easy. She also had two dressier events approaching so we put together 2 slightly more formal looks. The photos here are just a few of the many looks we put together. All of these items were things she already had, and with a few more staples that we decided she needed and will be purchasing, she has a whole new look!

With Karen's coloring, she is definitely a 'spring' season, and her build is tall and athletic. Fortunately for me my job was made easy as Karen already has a great figure and lovely coloring. It really wasn't very difficult making her look even better than she already does!

This look we put together for a formal work event that Karen has coming up. It is a lightweight green dress with small ruffle details, and the gold wrap adds a nice accent. A multi-strand gold necklace finished off this look.

This dress is for a wedding that Karen has this weekend. It's a vibrant multi-colored fit-and-flare dress that accentuates her great figure and emphasizes her waist. We added small blue beads as a statement piece.

This is a more casual look for work that can easily transition to the evening for running around with the kids. This is a simple blue maxi skirt worn with a printed peasant tee and blue denim jacket.

The same look minus the jacket for warmer days!

The same blue skirt with a fuschia tank, denim jacket and a scarf that brings out the colors of the skirt and top.

Deep olive green wide pants paired with a paisley tee. This is a great look for travelling for Karen's upcoming Europe trip.

This is a pair of dark wash jeans worn with a tank and burgundy fitted jacket. The wrap was made by Karen and the colors really complement the color of the jacket. She has a great pair of burgundy colored ballet flats that work well with this look.

This look is one that can be transitioned from spring to fall (see below). This maxi dress looked great on Karen and the deep red colored jacket brought out the red in the dress.

The same dress can be worn for fall by changing the jacket to a heavier textured deep burgundy jacket, a scarf, and boots.

Best Plus-Sized Buys for Fall

2016-10-05T10:45:00.000-04:00

Fall is one of my favorite seasons, and with that come the fabulous fall trends. But with that can sometimes come discouragement for many women who are not a size zero, as it is difficult to be a fashionista when the world doesn't exactly cater to you! It's a sad truth that it's a struggle for many plus-sized women to find fashion-forward clothes. The good news is that the choice and selection is improving somewhat, and with e-commerce from places such as H&M, ASOS and Forever 21 (just to name a few), it's becoming much easier to stay looking great and on-trend when you're not a skinny minnie!

So today I'm going to share some great plus-sized finds for fall, from killer pants and frocks to a fab moto jacket. So despair no longer ladies, you can look great and on-trend if you know where to shop! Enjoy!

This is a great moto jacket - and you don't need a motorcycle to wear this ladies!

A pair of basic black pants can be worn with everything, from Fall and beyond.

These pants are a great buy from Forever 21 at just $22.80. What a steal!

Another jacket to try this fall for that tough-girl look!

Try this sweet top with the contrast collar. Looking good!

Wine is one of the 'it' colors for fall, and these cords are totally calling you!

Love stripes! They can be worn all year and never fail to look great! Who says bigger girls can't wear horizontal stripes?

This is a great party frock. Love the graphic print; and you can also try it with black opaque tights and knee length boots for a different spin.

Brenna's Makeover Part Two!

2016-10-02T10:05:00.000-04:00

Here are some more pics from Brenna's makeover. These looks are easily transitioned from day to evening and are comfortable and flattering. The two jackets (gray & red tweed) are also a great choice for a weekend look to be worn with jeans or leggings & boots. A simple scarf and/or skinny belt are easy ways of accessorizing to change up your look without trying too hard!

Brenna's Business Makeover Part 1

2016-10-01T16:44:00.000-04:00

I recently met with the lovely Brenna who hired me for a Business Makeover. Brenna's job involves a lot of travel but her attire needs to be dressy and professional. Due to the extensive travel involved, comfort was a major factor here, and she is also young, so I thought that it was key to keep the clothing fun and young but at the same time work-appropriate.

Brenna was not difficult to make look great. In fact, everything I picked out that she tried she looked fabulous in, so choosing the final pieces was the hardest part! I took her to White House Black Market, where we found a wide array of great pieces and did what I like to call 'build a wardrobe' on the basic wardrobe essentials. We chose fitted blazers in black and gray, as well as pants & pencil skirts in those colors too. With those as the foundation of her wardrobe, we were able to build on that to create numerous outfits that she would be able to wear to work and some that she would be able to transition to after work social activities. Being able to mix and match was key here to creating her new wardrobe with some fabulous pieces and fun accessories. Take a look at some of the looks we put together. I think you'll agree that she looks great!

A Tweed Jacket for Fall...

2016-09-30T19:10:00.000-04:00

One the most important pieces in my wardrobe is the blazer. I am a huge fan of this item and have them in many colors, styles and prints. In the summer I wore linen blazers in tangerine orange, fuschia pink, white and black. And now for the fall I have them in blue, gray, green, and red - as well as my floral print, leopard print etc, etc...the list goes on! I just can't get enough of the blazer!

Not only is a blazer stylish and always fashionable, but it's an item that is flattering (when the cut is right), and can really pull an outfit together by adding the finishing touch. You can dress it up or down, depending on the occasion, and it usually has a slimming effect, especially when it has structured shoulders and nips in at the waist to accentuate your waist.

However, today I want to focus on the tweed jacket. Tweed is something that is back in style again (did it ever go out of style?). This menswear classic reveals its feminine side, and it can work at any age. Tweed doesn't need to be something your grandpa used to wear - now it's a fall staple, so give it a try!