http://theclassicwoman.me/http://theclassicwoman.mea guide for classic livingenMon, 09 Apr 2012 20:26:34 PDThttp://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.1hourly1http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/2.0/Theclassicwomanmehttp://feedburner.google.comThe Women Who Started the Classic Look of Pantshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Theclassicwomanme/~3/ALr45Qtjhm4/Fashionhigh-waisted pantsKatherine HepburnMarlene Dietrichtuxedo look for womenwide-legged pantsClassicWomanMon, 09 Apr 2012 20:26:34 PDThttp://theclassicwoman.me/?p=1294They wore pants to work in the factories.  They wore pants to ski on the slopes and they wore pants to ride their horses.  However, a proper woman in the 1930′s did not wear pants under any other circumstances.  That is, until a couple of Hollywood starlets decided to go against the wishes of their studios and started a most scandalous trend:  women wearing pants instead of dresses. This move cost them dearly in the world of public opinion, but being the strong-willed women that they were, they continued wearing what they saw fit — pants.  The actresses were Katherine Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich and they totally changed the way people viewed trouser-wearing women. By the 1950′s the idea of women wearing slacks for casual wear exploded, and, in the 1960′s, designers introduced the first pantsuits for women.  Today, thanks to Hepburn and Dietrich, slacks are as much a necessary part of the Classic Woman’s wardrobe as the little black dress.

 

Source:  ghetto_vcam on photobucket

Katharine Hepburn was the first woman to wear pants in a major motion picture.  Her signature look consisted of wide legged pants, a classic blouse, a tailored jacket, and stylish loafers.

Source:  http://www.glamamor.com

Marlene Dietrich  followed suit by wearing pants in the 1930 film Morocco.  She started the tuxedo-look for women.

A Classic Woman’s Take on the Katharine Hepburn Look:

Look One:

1.  High waisted, wide legged pants

Lafayette 148 New York Ludlow Pants

2.  Button down shirt

Equipment Signature Silk Shirt

3.  Loafers

Salvatore Ferragamo Casper Bit Moccasin Loafers

Look Two:

1.  High waisted, wide legged pants

Ralph Lauren Collection

2.  Button down shirt

Equipment Super Vintage Washed Signature Shirt

3.  Loafers

Tod’s Leather Moccasin Loafer

A Classic Woman’s Take on the Marlene Dietrich Look:

Source:  http://chanceplus1.com

Runway collection by Balmain

A Tuxedo just for Her

]]>They wore pants to work in the factories.  They wore pants to ski on the slopes and they wore pants to ride their horses.  However, a proper woman in the 1930′s did not wear pants under any other circumstances.  That is, until a couple of Hollywood starlets decided to go against the wishes of their studios and started a most scandalous trend:  women wearing pants instead of dresses. This move cost them dearly in the world of public opinion, but being the strong-willed women that they were, they continued wearing what they saw fit — pants.  The actresses were Katherine…http://theclassicwoman.me/?feed=rss2&p=12940http://theclassicwoman.me/?p=1294The Style and Grace of an American Princess: Grace Kellyhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Theclassicwomanme/~3/0OGVUk1ldPs/Style Icons: The Classic Lookclassic fashionclassic styleclassic womanconservative stylelifestyle fashionprincess grace of monacoClassicWomanFri, 06 Apr 2012 06:28:25 PDThttp://gator1579.hostgator.com/~skt4284/?p=1068 

Source:  landrygaucher on photobucket

Where does one begin in describing Grace Kelly?  She was beautiful, stylish, graceful, and an Oscar winner.  She was mother, wife, daughter, the girl-next-door, and Her Serene Highness Princess Grace of Monaco.  As a young actress, she dressed according to her rules and her’s alone.  She knew what looked good on her and she had the confidence to wear it even if everyone else dressed differently. Consequently, off she went to audition at the theater, which was often quite dusty, wearing white gloves, neutral hose, low-heeled shoes, slim wool skirts, camel-hair coat, horn-rimmed glasses and minimalistic makeup. Thus entered Grace Kelly into the world of acting.

Source:  http://gracepage.tripod.com/gallery.html

Her modeling experience gave her insight into what looked good on her and imbedded within her the importance of good posture – knowledge that served her well. She had the inner strength to say “no” to bad scripts, directors with whom she did not want to work, and costumes that did not bring out her best features.   Although considered soft-spoken and shy, she was strong-willed enough to get what she wanted, and when it came to fashion and movie costume designers, Edith Head was whom she wanted. Head understood Kelly’s style; it was classic, yet understated.  Tommy Hilfiger once described style as being something “enduring and forever. It’s something you cannot buy.  There is a chic-ness to conservative style done in an elegant way”.  And no one did conservative more elegantly than Kelly.

Her intuitive ability to accessorise – a gift that separates the well dressed from the fashionably turned out, even today – gave her an even more enviable edge. She converted many of her signature shirtwaist dresses and skirt suits from the 1950s from simply pretty to arrestingly different with strategically pinned brooches, those ever-present gloves, a hair clasp, jewelled band, or cocktail crescent fastened into her moonlight-blonde bob, or a sliver of silk pleated into her neckline.

Read more: http://www.theage.com.au/lifestyle/fashion/a-style-full-of-grace-20120203-1qwxj.html#ixzz1rChdMIym

Source:  dnzz on photobucket

 

Kelly knew that simple clothes looked the best on her.  She could accentuate her best features, her waistline with a belt or a cinched waist and her neckline with a scarf or a strand of pearls.  This attention to detail allowed her to look just as good  in a pair of cut-off trousers and loafers as she did in a couture gown.

 

Source:  EnchantedFairytale on photobucket

Source:  AnneFrank284 on photobucket

Grace Kelly was beautiful, refined, and well-mannered.  She was strong-willed, yet polite.  She genuinely enjoyed being in “her own skin” and celebrated by dressing in what looked good on her, regardless of whether or not it was in style or featured on the runway.  She truly had that something special called “style”.

 

The Grace Kelly look:

white gloves

clothes that accentuated her shape

monochromatic color schemes

neutral colors

leather shoes with kitten heels that completedt the monochromatic color scheme

strand of pearls

big sunglasses

simple hairstyle that complemented her face shape

natural looking makeup palette

hats

sheer scarves

good posture

Hermes “Kelly” Bag

INTERESTING FACTS:

The Pattern Dress

Source:  http://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/67388490.html

The first meeting of Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier of Monaco had been arranged by a French magazine as a photo opportunity during the 1955 Cannes Film Festival.  However, everything that could go wrong prior to their meeting did just that.  The hotel she was staying at lost power so she could not dry her hair or iron a dress. In fact, Kelly even considered cancelling the meeting.  She, however, decided to make the best out of a bad situation; she pulled her hair back and pinned in some plastic flowers and put on the one garment that was not wrinkled — a floral silk taffeta dress made from a McCall’s dress pattern that she had worn for the cover of their Spring 1955 pattern book.  It was a far cry from Kelly’s usual look, but she wore it confidently and won the Prince’s heart.

The Hermes Kelly Bag

Source:  http://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/67388490.html

In 1956, a photo of Grace Kelly, who had become the new Princess of Monaco) carrying the Sac à dépêches bag to shield her pregnant stomach from the prying eyes of the paparazzi. Photographs of her covering her stomach bulge with her hallowed Hermès were splashed all over the world and made it onto the cover of Life magazine. Thus, the company — or possibly more like the public — renamed it the Kelly bag, and it became hugely popular.

The Ring

The engagement ring Kelly’s character in High Society wears is actually the ring given to her by Prince Rainier of Monaco

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A

 

]]>  Source:  landrygaucher on photobucket Where does one begin in describing Grace Kelly?  She was beautiful, stylish, graceful, and an Oscar winner.  She was mother, wife, daughter, the girl-next-door, and Her Serene Highness Princess Grace of Monaco.  As a young actress, she dressed according to her rules and her’s alone.  She knew what looked good on her and she had the confidence to wear it even if everyone else dressed differently. Consequently, off she went to audition at the theater, which was often quite dusty, wearing white gloves, neutral hose, low-heeled shoes, slim wool skirts, camel-hair coat, horn-rimmed glasses and…http://theclassicwoman.me/?feed=rss2&p=10682http://theclassicwoman.me/?p=1068The Classic Woman: How to Dress as a Guest at a Weddinghttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Theclassicwomanme/~3/NVRQ82IPjdc/Fashionclothes for a beach weddingclothes for a church weddingclothes to wear for a garden weddinghow to dress for a weddingwedding guest attirewhat to wear for an outdoor weddingClassicWomanMon, 02 Apr 2012 10:38:12 PDThttp://theclassicwoman.me/?p=1132Springtime ushers in the wedding season and, as many a Classic Woman knows, it also brings with it the need for a special garment or two to wear to the big events.  The guidelines for such a garment are that it be modest, yet not dowdy; makes a statement, but does not overshadow the bride; keeps with the style of the wedding, but yet has a certain sense of timelessness to it.  In addition, the Classic Woman searches for clothes that accentuate her best qualities.  The Classic Woman never wears white to a wedding as it would compete with the bride, nor does she wear black during the day.  Regardless of the location of the wedding, the formality for the wedding is set by the invitation itself. Beach weddings can be formal and a church weddings can be informal. When it doubt, a dress or suit for day weddings and a black dress for evening weddings will generally work.

 

 CHURCH WEDDINGS

One of the first things to remember about a wedding in a church or synagogue is that the venue is considered a holy place and should be treated with respect. Some denominations prohibit the wearing of pants or sleeveless dresses by women, while others require a head covering.  The Classic Woman is aware that the bride and groom chose a church because they wanted a religious ceremony, therefore she must dress accordingly. If the wedding is in a church belonging to a denomination that she is not familiar with, she will inquire about any clothing restrictions.  Even if the church does not have a “dress code”,  the best rule of thumb is to dress modestly — nothing too low in the front or in the back and not too short.

MORNING/AFTERNOON

A dress or a suit is perfect for either an informal or formal daytime wedding.  If the wedding is formal, the classic woman simply adds a hat and a pair of gloves to the ensemble to create a more formal look. (Opera gloves are only worn with sleeveless or strapless dresses.)

 

Gathered Silk-Jersey Dress by Issa

nude pumps

Via Spiga ‘Jessica” Pump

Diane von Frustenberg Perforated Leather Clutch

Tahari Peplum Jacquard Suit

 

A CHURCH WEDDING — AFTER SIX

Weddings held after six are formal affairs and require cocktail dresses.  Also, wraps are totally acceptable for sleeveless dresses and gowns as the guidelines for modesty still prevail.  If the wedding states that it is black-tie, long dresses or  dressy cocktail dresses are the styles of choice.  Beading is acceptable.  Occasionally, a very formal wedding will be billed as a white-tie event; in that case the dress code is long gown complete with diamonds and furs.  In other words, think red-carpet worthy.

Formal Wedding

little black dressSt. John Matte Jersey Dress

Jimmy Choo Luna Patent Peep-Toe Platform Pump

accessories for little black dressDiamond Tennis Necklace

La Regale Rhinestone Clutch

cocktail dressPhoebe Couture Strapless Rosette-Bodice Gown

Badgley Mischka Sandals — Walda Strappy

Black-Tie Wedding

Sue Wong Beaded Dress

Issa London Cap-Sleeve Maxi Dress

Jimmy Choo Crisscross Mirrored Sandal

Lauren Merkin Diana Metallic Snake Clutch

White-Tie Wedding

Theia Crystal-Bodice Strapless Gown

Badgley Mischka One-Shoulder Organza Ruffle Gown

Jude Frances – White Topaz, Diamond, 18K Gold and Sterling Silver Earrings

Jimmy Choo India Glittered Crisscross Slingback

Judith Leiber Natalie Beaded Clutch

 

 OUTDOOR WEDDINGS

Outdoor weddings require sunglasses to shield eyes from the sun, a shawl or long scarf in the event of a cool breeze or the coolness of the night after the sun goes down, and either a hat or a parasol to protect the face from the sun.

A BEACH WEDDING

The Classic Woman is keenly aware that although a beach wedding may sound like an informal affair, it is not a shorts and halter top event.  Soft colors, tropical prints, or a tie dye look work well for beach weddings. Footwear should be flat, although plastic flip-flops are never acceptable; a pretty leather sandal works nicely.  Maxi dresses are perfect for this venue as they are comfortable and can be accessorized to fit the tone of the wedding.  Cotton dresses tend to be more informal while satin dresses are more formal.

maxi dressJean Paul Gaultier Tiered Maxi Dress

maxi dressGUESS – Abby Tie Dye Maxi Dress

 

dress for beach weddingKay Unger New York Ikat-Print Halter Gown

 Kate Spade New York Falyn Flower Sandals

KOTUR Clutch

 

 

A GARDEN WEDDING

Garden weddings are generally dressy affairs; floral designs and pastels work well with the surroundings and theme of the venue.  Shoes should be flat or low heeled for easier walking on the grass or on garden pathways. Dress length follows the guidelines based on the formality of the wedding.

Tory Burch Melba Poppy-Print Dress

shift dressLauren by Ralph Lauren Charlotte Sheath Dress

Trina Turk Lynde Bouquet-Print Maxi Dress

Manolo Blahnick Betsy Crisscross Slide

KOTUR Clutch

 

]]>Springtime ushers in the wedding season and, as many a Classic Woman knows, it also brings with it the need for a special garment or two to wear to the big events.  The guidelines for such a garment are that it be modest, yet not dowdy; makes a statement, but does not overshadow the bride; keeps with the style of the wedding, but yet has a certain sense of timelessness to it.  In addition, the Classic Woman searches for clothes that accentuate her best qualities.  The Classic Woman never wears white to a wedding as it would compete with the…http://theclassicwoman.me/?feed=rss2&p=11322http://theclassicwoman.me/?p=1132The Classic Woman and the Little Black Dresshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Theclassicwomanme/~3/Gs_ceUIkm9k/FashionStyle Icons: The Classic LookAudrey Hepburncarolyn bessette kennedyclassic womanCoco ChanelJackie Kennedylittle black dressmichelle obamaqueen rania of jordanthe long black dressClassicWomanFri, 30 Mar 2012 19:56:49 PDThttp://gator1579.hostgator.com/~skt4284/?p=1070Karl Lagerfeld once said, “Since it was invented there has always been a little black dress in the spirit of the moment.Women are never over- or underdressed with a little black dress. A woman never looks bad in one; she can always trust that look.”

Born in the 1926 issue of Vogue, the fashion world welcomed the Little Black Dress with sneers and jeers.  After all, black was a color reserved for funerals and periods of mourning, everyone knew that.  However, when photos of Coco Chanel’s black sleeveless knee-length jersey sheath hit the newsstands, women in the United States were ready for a change and instantly threw tradition out the window and wanted the dress for their own.  Women loved the versatility of the LBD; it could be simple or majestic, all with a change in accessories.  Soon it became the dress than no woman could do without.  Although designers after Chanel created their own version of the LBD by varying the length, by adding frills, lace and other adornments, and by using a wide array of fabrics from leather to velvet, one thing has remained constant — the importance of the LBD in the Classic Woman’s closet.

 

Take a peek at some Classic Women who not only trusted that look, but claimed it as their own.

 

JACKIE KENNEDY

Source:  National Archives, John F. Kennedy

 

CATHERINE, THE DUCHESS OF CAMBRIDGE

Source:  Getty Images

 

PRINCESS DIANA

Source:  Princess Diana Archive, Getty Images

 

 

MICHELLE OBAMA

Source:  Pascal Le Segretain, Getty Images

AUDREY HEPBURN

Source:  shadrenys on Photobucket

GRACE KELLY

Source:  Sweet1_033 on Photobucket

QUEEN RANIA OF JORDAN

Source:  Getty Images

CAROLYN BESSETTE KENNEDY

Source:  markdsikes.com

 

]]>Karl Lagerfeld once said, “Since it was invented there has always been a little black dress in the spirit of the moment.Women are never over- or underdressed with a little black dress. A woman never looks bad in one; she can always trust that look.” Born in the 1926 issue of Vogue, the fashion world welcomed the Little Black Dress with sneers and jeers.  After all, black was a color reserved for funerals and periods of mourning, everyone knew that.  However, when photos of Coco Chanel’s black sleeveless knee-length jersey sheath hit the newsstands, women in the United States were…http://theclassicwoman.me/?feed=rss2&p=10700http://theclassicwoman.me/?p=1070A Classic Woman’s Guide to Tipping While Travelinghttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Theclassicwomanme/~3/ak_8QH3JLA0/Etiquettecoat checkeremily post instituteetiquettemannersrestroom attendanttippingtipping while travelingtips for hotel sfafftips for restaurant staffClassicWomanWed, 28 Mar 2012 12:24:57 PDThttp://gator1579.hostgator.com/~skt4284/?p=1038Traveling.  Eating Out.  Getting to the Salon.  These are all things on the Classic Woman’s calendar, however, with each activity there is also the delicate matter of tipping.  The Classic Woman is well aware that tipping not only benefits the person giving the service, but is also a reflection on the Classic Woman herself.  Therefore, it is crucial to know how much to tip and which services need one. The following guidelines are based on information from the Emily Post Institute and the web article “Basic Tips on Tipping:  How Much and To Whom?” by J.D. Roth.

RESTAURANTS:

WAIT SERVICE (Sit Down):  15-20%, pre-tax.

WAIT SERVICE (Buffet):  10%, pre-tax.

HOST or MAITRE D’:  No obligation for greeting or showing you to your table; $10.00 – 20.00 for going above and beyond to find you a table on a busy night.

TAKE OUT:  No obligation; 10-15% for extra service (curbside) or for a complicated order.

BARTENDER:  $1.00-2.00 per drink or 15-20% of the tab.

BARISTA:  No obligation; may throw coins in a jar if Barista provides something extra.

COAT CHECKER:  $1.00 per coat.

RESTROOM ATTENDANT:  $0.50-3.00 depending on the level of service.

VALET:  $2.00-5.00; tip when the car is returned to you.

 

HOTEL STAFF:

BELLMAN:  A “smile” and a thanks when he opens the door; $1.00-2.00 per bag ($2.00 minimum) for carrying luggage; $1.00-2.00 for hailing a cab (add an extra $1.00 if it’s raining); $1.00-4.00 for going above and beyond the call of duty.

BELLHOP:  $2.00 first bag, $1.00 additional bag; $2.00 – 3.00 for each additional service, such as room delivery.

CONCIERGE:  No obligation for answering questions; $5.00 – 10.00 for tickets or restaurant reservations; $15.00 for hard to get tickets or reservations or 10-20% of the ticket price.

HOUSEKEEPER:  $1.00-2.00 per person, per night; in higher end hotels, $3.00 – 5.00 per person, per night; tips are left daily with a note “Housekeeping — Thank you”.  If staying one night in a motel, tips are not necessary, however, the $1.00 – 2.00 guideline is used for multi-day stays.  Note:  Housekeeping is not considered by most U.S hotel guests to be a tip-based service, however, it is much appreciated by the staff.

VALET:  see Restaurants

ROOM SERVICE:  $5.00 minimum (unless gratuity is included in check).

 

TRAVEL:

TAXI DRIVER:  15-20% of the fare, $2.00 minimum; $2.00 for the first bag, $1.00 for additional bags.

BUS DRIVER (not mass transit):  $1.00 – 2.00 if he handles luggage.

CHAUFFEUR:  10-15%.

PORTER/SKYCAP:  $2.00 for the first bag, $1.00 for additional bags; $2.00 for heavy items.

 

PERSONAL SERVICE

BARBER/HAIRSTYLIST:  15-20% to be split among those who served you.

MANICURIST:  15-20%.

SPA SERVICE:  15-20%.

MASSEUSE:  15-20%.

FACIAL, WAXING:  15-20%.

SHOE-SHINER:  $2.00 or 3.00.

 

THE FINER POINTS OF TIPPING according to the Emily Post Institute:

Always treat servers with respect.

Leaving a generous tip doesn’t make up for ordering someone around or treating them dismissively. While tipping augments servers’ incomes and rewards them for a job well done, treating them kindly is just as important.

Try to carry some cash.

Some places it is not possible to put a tip on a card.

If you are in doubt about whether to tip, ask in advance.

In some situations, leaving a tip could be seen as demeaning. Taking the time to find out what’s expected can spare you an embarrassing moment.

It is acceptable to tip on the pre-tax amount of the bill.

For large parties this can be quite different than the total.

Tipping discreetly is classy.

Tipping is a private matter. Don’t act like a “big spender” and flash a lot of bills.

Money is the tip of choice.

Gifts should be reserved for the holidays to top-off the tips you have given regularly throughout the year.

 


 

]]>Traveling.  Eating Out.  Getting to the Salon.  These are all things on the Classic Woman’s calendar, however, with each activity there is also the delicate matter of tipping.  The Classic Woman is well aware that tipping not only benefits the person giving the service, but is also a reflection on the Classic Woman herself.  Therefore, it is crucial to know how much to tip and which services need one. The following guidelines are based on information from the Emily Post Institute and the web article “Basic Tips on Tipping:  How Much and To Whom?” by J.D. Roth. RESTAURANTS: WAIT SERVICE…http://theclassicwoman.me/?feed=rss2&p=10381http://theclassicwoman.me/?p=1038LINKS À LA MODE: THE IFB WEEKLY ROUND UPhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Theclassicwomanme/~3/0voXN7oFifY/FashionClassicWomanMon, 19 Mar 2012 13:00:11 PDThttp://gator1579.hostgator.com/~skt4284/?p=1030The Classic Woman was featured on the Independent Fashion Bloggers, Links Á La Mode! Check it out below.

 

Spring has Sprung!

Spring has Sprung!

Edited by: Collette Osuna of Statements in Fashion

How absolutely amazing has the weather been in your neck of the woods? It has been sunny skies and warm temps these past few days in Michigan, and I have to say….”it’s about time”. We seriously dodged the Winter bullet ,and I’m hoping for smooth,warm sailing from here on out. Afterall, it is Michigan, (it could be snowing as I type this right now:) Spring is a wonderful time of year, not just for the warmer temps, but it’s a time for renewal, to clean out the old and replace with the new. Renew your closets sisters and brothers! Do a major closet cleaning and see what new spring inspired pieces you can add to your collection. I am adoring the sweet pastel colors I see everywhere! This weeks links are chock full of variety from DIY’s, mens fashion, Fashion In Detroit, what’s in your makeup bag? and more. I loved reading through this weeks links….awesome blog posts friends! Have a wonderful month…Flip flops and tanks tops friends!

 

THE IFB WEEKLY ROUNDUP: LINKS À LA MODE: MARCH 15TH

 

 

SPONSOR:

New Dresses at Shopbop: Black Halo, Candela, Alice+Olivia, Brose, NSF, ISSA, Joie, LNA dresses, Tess Giberson, Zac Posen, Rebecca Taylor, Work & Night Out Dresses

]]>The Classic Woman was featured on the Independent Fashion Bloggers, Links Á La Mode! Check it out below.   Spring has Sprung! Spring has Sprung! Edited by: Collette Osuna of Statements in Fashion How absolutely amazing has the weather been in your neck of the woods? It has been sunny skies and warm temps these past few days in Michigan, and I have to say….”it’s about time”. We seriously dodged the Winter bullet ,and I’m hoping for smooth,warm sailing from here on out. Afterall, it is Michigan, (it could be snowing as I type this right now:) Spring is a…http://theclassicwoman.me/?feed=rss2&p=10300http://theclassicwoman.me/?p=1030A Peak Inside a Classic Woman’s Suitcasehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Theclassicwomanme/~3/gcnc68gQhLs/Fashionclothes to take on vacationmix-and-matchpacking listvacation wardrobegoldilocksSun, 18 Mar 2012 21:00:38 PDThttp://theclassicwoman.me/?p=340Vacation season is just around the corner, and traveling is one of the things that a classic woman does best.  Vacations are not only a time to “get away from it all” but a chance to learn and explore by embarking on new experiences.  Although a classic woman does want to dress comfortably while on vacation, she does not want to sacrifice quality for comfort.  As a discerning shopper, she demands the best of both worlds and will settle for nothing less.  Knowing that down-time is crucial for a successful life, she plans her vacation accordingly and, consequently, prepares a travel wardrobe that is versatile, easy to care for and easy to pack. Of course the climate to which she is going and her particular agenda — the beach, a destination wedding, a cruise, or a series of Broadway plays — all determine whether her wardrobe will be more casual in nature or more dressy.  However, the criteria for the garments she chooses is the same — they must be high in craftsmanship and timeless in design.   In order to capitalize on getting the most wear out of the fewest number of clothes, the classic woman chooses a color family with which to build her travel wardrobe around,  thus allowing her the flexibility to mix-and-match pieces. Regardless of the destination, her suitcase will likely be packed with the following items:

  1. slacks (light weight for warmer weather)
  2. jeans  (white for warmer climates)
  3. knee length shorts/capris
  4. skirt
  5. polo shirts
  6. shirt
  7. t-shirts/sleeveless tops
  8. walking shoes
  9. dinner dress
  10. simple jersey dresses
  11. heels
  12. swim suit
  13. coverup
  14. sandals
  15. flip-flops for by the pool
  16. cashmere wrap for cooler evening
  17. lingerie
  18. robe
  19. slippers
  20. shower slippers
  21. undergarments: bras, pantie/thongs, spandex
  22. jewelry
  23. big scarf
  24. wide-brimmed hat

 

Classic Woman’s Suitcase

Primary Color:  Blue

Destination:  Coast

Itinerary:  Sight-seeing, Shopping, Swimming, and Dining at Local Restaurants

A Peek Inside a Classic Woman's Suitcase

 

 



]]>Vacation season is just around the corner, and traveling is one of the things that a classic woman does best.  Vacations are not only a time to “get away from it all” but a chance to learn and explore by embarking on new experiences.  Although a classic woman does want to dress comfortably while on vacation, she does not want to sacrifice quality for comfort.  As a discerning shopper, she demands the best of both worlds and will settle for nothing less.  Knowing that down-time is crucial for a successful life, she plans her vacation accordingly and, consequently, prepares a…http://theclassicwoman.me/?feed=rss2&p=3400http://theclassicwoman.me/?p=340Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge: A Classic Woman in the Makinghttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Theclassicwomanme/~3/sr6w3RgZ44E/FashionStyle Icons: The Classic Lookclassic wardrobedressing professionallyKate MiddletonKate's fashion stylethe Duchess of CambridgegoldilocksSun, 11 Mar 2012 21:00:49 PDThttp://theclassicwoman.me/?p=251During the nine years that Kate Middleton has been in the public eye, she has gone from being known as “Waity Katie” to Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, and from dressing like the college co-ed she once was to becoming the style icon she was meant to be.  The refreshing thing about Kate’s fashion evolution is that during her transformation she has stayed true to herself.  She dares to wear off-the-rack High Street clothes one day and Couture the next and all the while seemingly never missing a beat.   She truly exemplifies how women in their twenties and thirties can develop a fashion sense that is both contemporary and classic without sacrificing their individual personalities.  As Anne Hathaway put it during an interview with USA Today, “I’m just very grateful to Kate Middleton for making looking appropriate really fun again”.

Kate has learned over the years the aesthetic value of clothes that are sleek and simple — they have a certain feeling of timelessness to them. Kate also realizes that the quality of a garment is not dependent upon the price. This has allowed her to skillfully maneuver between the two worlds of High Street and Couture in a way that no Royal has done before her.  The result is a  professional wardrobe for the working woman that is never dowdy or boring and always reflects a bit of  her own personality.

While visiting riot damaged Birmingham, Kate wore a wool-crepe skirt and a silk georgette blouse by Alexander McQueen. The entire ensemble with its military look and streamlined skirt exudes professionalism while the slit in the skirt adds personality.

On the day that she and Prince William announced their engagement, she wore an electric blue silk wrap dress by Issa.  Drawing subtle attention to her waistline, the dress with its fabulous drape, for which Issa is known, included a ruched neckline that kept the v-neckline from appearing too revealing.
For the official engagement picture, Kate wore a white dress by Reiss that featured a paneled waist band and side pockets with an overlay on the front skirt.  Interestingly, she bought the dress two years prior to wearing it for this photograph.

Recently, during the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Tour, Kate wore a classic jade jacket and skirt by LKBennett. She gave the outfit a personality infusion by cinching the jacket at the already nipped waistline with a black belt.  The result:  a hint of the currently trendy peplum look.

Even when dressing casually in jeans, she achieved a sophisticated look on their Canadian Tour by pairing them with a ruffled white shirt, tucked in to accentuate her waist and curves, navy blazer and espadrilles.  Wearing the same pair of jeans again on their Tour, she topped it with a Burberry shirt and wore Sebago Bala loafers giving the ensemble a put-together, yet relaxed look.

In keeping with her professional image, Kate always wears tights, usually nude in color, with her dresses and suits and, more often than not, a pair of pumps. She also keeps her hemlines modest, but adds interest by wearing fabrics that drape and move with her as well as an occasional slit on the side to reveal a bit more leg.  When it comes to make-up, Kate favors a natural look.  She draws attention to her eyes by lining them and wearing a neutral gloss on her lips.
LESSONS LEARNED FROM KATE:
1.  Keep the lines simple.
2.  Keep the look unified from head to toe.
3.  Keep it modest, but not boring.
4.  Pay attention to the details: Tights and Pumps add an element of sophistication.
5.  Buy quality garments that can be mixed and matched with other pieces.
6.  Keep it natural:  Wear clothes that are a reflection of who you are.
]]>During the nine years that Kate Middleton has been in the public eye, she has gone from being known as “Waity Katie” to Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, and from dressing like the college co-ed she once was to becoming the style icon she was meant to be.  The refreshing thing about Kate’s fashion evolution is that during her transformation she has stayed true to herself.  She dares to wear off-the-rack High Street clothes one day and Couture the next and all the while seemingly never missing a beat.   She truly exemplifies how women in their twenties and thirties can…http://theclassicwoman.me/?feed=rss2&p=2512http://theclassicwoman.me/?p=251The Classic Woman and the Rules of Engagementhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Theclassicwomanme/~3/QIL2k-MwV04/Etiquettehow to talk to peoplemanners. party etiquettegoldilocksSat, 10 Mar 2012 19:59:41 PSThttp://theclassicwoman.me/?p=318With the return of Spring and Summer comes a host of social occasions for the classic woman:  bridal showers, weddings, graduations, barbeques … the list goes on. The classic woman knows that being the perfect guest requires an adherence to certain social rules.

1.  Arrive on time; do not be late.  Also, never arrive more than a few minutes early, your host may be busy with last minute details and not quite ready for receiving guests.

2  Upon arriving at the social function, the first order of business is to find the host, greet them  and present them with a gift  such as a bottle of wine, a bouquet of flowers, or a box of chocolates.

3. Start conversations with others in attendance.  Breaking the Ice is always a little awkward, just remember to ask questions of the other person and keep the subject matter light and cheerful.   Never, never, divulge too many personal details to a total stranger.  The goal in mingling is to meet new people and make new connections; it is never a substitute for a therapy session.

4.  Avoid stepping into a conversation that is already taking place, rather look for someone who is not talking to anyone and start there.

5.  When talking to people, always look them in the eyes.  Even if you have a million other things on your mind, make them feel that they are the most important person in the room at that moment.  Ask the other person questions and wait for him to answer.  After he is finished, add your own thoughts, always being careful not to hijack the conversation.  Remember, good conversation is like a game of ping pong, each person must have a turn to talk and then to listen.

6.  Although considered a bit old-fashioned, it is still a good idea to avoid discussing sex, politics, and religion unless you are quite familiar with the other person’s viewpoints.  Not everyone is comfortable with a lively debate and a party atmosphere is not always the best place for that discussion.  Instead, start the conversation by asking general questions.  Hopefully, you will hear a response that will trigger  a mutually shared interest; if not, try talking a little bit about yourself or something you have done and let the conversation branch off with some questions from that angle.

7.  Additional conversation pitfalls:

  • Letting people know that you are richer than they are.
  • Bragging.  Boasting.
  • Talking about yourself nonstop.
  • Be sensitive.  For example, if you pick up on the fact that someone may be struggling financially, do not talk about how you throw money around and never blink an eye.

8.  Barbara Walters’, in her book How to Talk With Anybody About Practically Anything (1970), states: “Deep breaths are very helpful at shallow parties.”

9.  Always inform your host that you are leaving and thank them for a wonderful time.

10.  Although not required, sending a thank you note after attending the party is always a lovely gesture and, in today’s social environment, often quite unexpected.  Your thoughtfulness will neither go unnoticed nor unappreciated.

]]>With the return of Spring and Summer comes a host of social occasions for the classic woman:  bridal showers, weddings, graduations, barbeques … the list goes on. The classic woman knows that being the perfect guest requires an adherence to certain social rules. 1.  Arrive on time; do not be late.  Also, never arrive more than a few minutes early, your host may be busy with last minute details and not quite ready for receiving guests. 2  Upon arriving at the social function, the first order of business is to find the host, greet them  and present them with a…http://theclassicwoman.me/?feed=rss2&p=3181http://theclassicwoman.me/?p=318LINKS À LA MODE: THE IFB WEEKLY ROUND UPhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Theclassicwomanme/~3/Ne6bBdSTjMo/Fashionfashionfashion blogsstylegoldilocksThu, 08 Mar 2012 12:22:20 PSThttp://theclassicwoman.me/?p=247

MAN, I FEEL LIKE A WOMAN

Edited by: Victoria of vmac+cheese

There was a time in the mid-90s when girl power was all the rage (thank you, Spice Girls!). While midriff baby tees might have fallen out of fashion, now more than ever bloggers prove that girl power is still in full effect.Whether it’s donning a lacy top, a beautiful lip color, or even raising a glass to the original girl power movement of Rosie the Riveter, fashion bloggers know better than anyone else how to celebrate being a woman! In honor of National Women’s History month, check out these posts that are all about the things that make being a woman fun.

THE IFB WEEKLY ROUNDUP: LINKS À LA MODE: MARCH 8TH

SPONSOR: :

New Sandals at <a style="text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold; color: #000000;" href=" http://www.shopbop.com/actions/designerindex/viewAlphabeticalDesigners.action?folderID=2534374302158864“>Shopbop: Ras, Yosi Samra, Kalmanovich, LK Bennett, Aquazzura, Minkoff, Rachel Zoe, Acne, Miista, Premiata, Loeffler Randall, Sam Edelman Sandals & Pelle Moda Shoes

PLEASE READ IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO PARTICIPATE

If you would like to submit your link for next week’s Links à la Mode, please register first, then post your links HERE. The HTML code for this week will be found in the Links a la Mode group will be published later today. ~Jennine

]]>MAN, I FEEL LIKE A WOMAN Edited by: Victoria of vmac+cheese There was a time in the mid-90s when girl power was all the rage (thank you, Spice Girls!). While midriff baby tees might have fallen out of fashion, now more than ever bloggers prove that girl power is still in full effect.Whether it’s donning a lacy top, a beautiful lip color, or even raising a glass to the original girl power movement of Rosie the Riveter, fashion bloggers know better than anyone else how to celebrate being a woman! In honor of National Women’s History month, check out these&#8230;http://theclassicwoman.me/?feed=rss2&p=2470http://theclassicwoman.me/?p=247