Cardigans can conjure up images of twinsets and more, so I decided to choose this fun cardi that could be worn diagonally or simple like most cardigans and off to the side.
Don’t be afraid of color- as you can tell from this gallery- the bright color really can act like a neutral and when paired well, it instantly can transform an outfit versus the typical black cardigan.
Get ready for the next blog challenge, something totally new and very exciting for me. The top 100 pieces in the woman’s wardrobe and how I style them.
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I LOVE, love the layering piece of this ruffle tank. Ruffles are perfect for a little romantic, feminine touch to an otherwise masculine look.
Neutrals are best for your layering options.
Next week and to complete the top 10 pieces to have in YOUR working wardrobe, the cardigan.
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I am a firm lover of vests. I really think they can transform every and all outfits. This vest is really great left open or belted.
Unfortunately within this color palette ( when using the pieces most women have) I was limited to using this just over the pattern blouse. But normally it’s peeping out of most of my outfits.
Next up, one of my favorite layering pieces; the ruffle tank.
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Who doesn’t love a pattern or color to escape from some of our boring outfits?
This Tucker for Target blouse rocks and fits perfectly well in this collection these past weeks. Remember do not be afraid of pattern or color- just be sure it flows smoothly in your 10. ( If you are petite, be aware of shapes, avoid patterns or shapes that are bigger than your fist.)
Next week, open vest.
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The white shirt? Absolutely love it. Chic all the time whether it be under a crisp suit or with a dark denim and pumps. A bright lip and some jewelry, you are good to go and look stunning!
Check out http://the-shirt.com/; genius hidden buttons to hide the gaping we all hate.
Next week; pattern blouse.
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A great skirt is a MUST have in any woman’s wardrobe. It’s such a versatile piece. From work to play- it can take you through late evening and you will still look FABULOUS!
I have used a leather skirt in this beautiful burgundy because it works well with the color palette and pairs beautifully with the textured jacket ( you can mix textures) Understandably it may be a bit too edgy in some work settings, but the color and length are spot on.
Next week, the white shirt.
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The neutral pant is a great staple in any woman’s wardrobe. It can break up the rut of suit looks only and can also be worn really casually and fun outside of work.
Next week the pencil skirt ( leather…and how it’s totally office appropriate)
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A closet staple? The little black dress (something we all have in our closets for those back up- look great any time moments.)
This jumper style dress is both date night hot and work appropriate when layered (while looking tres chic!)
If you like this idea and don’t know if your LBD will work. Buy one in a heavier knit to be able to layer more easily.
Next week, the neutral pant takes various forms.
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Last but not least- the various outfits that the textured pant can create.
Next up? Spice up it a bit from the typical work pairings and show the working twist on your LBD ( little black dress)
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You may be surprised at how many looks the textured jacket can create but once again, be sure to stick within the same color palette when mixing. If you are unsure, check out my custom collection service.
In the service we create a collection- 10-15 pieces, like the work I have been showing here, but we make sure it works with your lifestyle, color, needs etc. It’s pretty magical when you have a specific group of clothing knowing that it can be worn together. Voila, easy!
Next week, the textured pant!
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The textured suit is an important staple to the working woman’s wardrobe to give you fresh looks and to help you have some character and depth to your wardrobe.
Next week you’ll see how the textured jacket can be worn well with other solids. Just stick within the same color palette- ( I chose black because more women have black but a deep brown/chocolate would have been beautiful paired together.)
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Closet organization can literally change the way you dress. Having an organized closet can bring fun and a lightness to getting dressed in the morning versus overwhelm!
I bet you have 20 new outfits in your closet if it were organized by style and color.
Look at all these hidden gems hiding in this closet- beautiful! Interested in giving the gift of organization to someone in your life this holiday season? Contact me and we’ll talk possibilities!
s
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We all love a black pant right?! This too can take so many various forms but see below for the options with the other 9 pieces.
Another amazing pant to have in your wardrobe? Ivory or white can do wonders for holiday season- I love it paired with a little bit of sparkle, but we’ll get to that post later.
Enjoy! Next week moving on from the black suit and its pieces to a textured suit.
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The black blazer, an essential to throw on- wear casually or to work. I suggest also having a boyfriend blazer in your wardrobe. I have it in our top 10 because it’s a great transitional piece, especially with the cuffs flipped up.
Next week: the black pant and its various forms- get ready!
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A working wardrobe staple for most women? The black suit. See the blazer take various 15 fresh forms next week (with only the other 9 pieces in the top 10)
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Thank you, thank you artist Cindi B! Cindi B. created individual paper doll pieces around the 10 essentials for the busy working woman.
More to come but for now a BIG BIG thank you!!!
I have not seen the professional photos yet but have gotten a few sneak peeks from others snapping shots.
For more of her work see here: (she is artist extraordinaire specializing in murals, sketches, paintings and anything your creative mind can think up- she can do!)
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Another sneak peek into our swag bags for the event, you’ll be receiving one surprise from Bombshell Cosmetics by ShanaMarie!
Shana will also be at the event November 11th; so whether you are a new fan or an old one- come say hi! Haven’t gotten your ticket yet? See the toolbar to your right!
Check out more goodies on the link below and start dreaming what you may receive in YOUR swag bag. ( Trust me- it’s something perfect!)
http://bombshellcosmeticsbysm.wazala.com/
Want more? Check her blog out www.Theshanamarieshow.com
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I have been an avid Goody product user for as long as I can remember. I know I use at least one of their products daily ( love their bobby pins- blonde!)
The generous and kind people of Goody have donated items for our swag bags! Here’s a little preview. Thank you again Goody for being so GREAT and having extraordinary products. We love you!
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Donate one of these pieces (gently used please) to Bridge to Success November 11th and receive 20% off your next Fashionably Efficient package.
These pieces will make a profound difference for Bridge to Success and their clients.
The top 10 pieces to create efficiency:
- Solid suit
- Textured suit
- Skirt
- Neutral pant
- White shirt
- Pattern or color shirt
- Cardigan
- Neutral vest
- Shell
- Little black dress
Soon to come! 10 pieces morphed into 35+ looks.
The top ten pieces in a busy woman’s work wardrobe: donate one of these pieces and receive 20% off your Fashionably Efficient package.
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Meet one of our fashionably efficient gurus: makeup artist Jen Brown!
http://www.jenbrownmakeup.com/
*One lucky winner will receive a free one hour full face makeup application.
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Getting excited? I wanted to share what you first 75 attendees may be seeing in YOUR swag bag…
Big THANK YOU to Jack E Ohs NYC for your generosity and ease! We LOVE you! XO
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Designer Haleigh B. is hard at work designing, creating and sewing for her unique take on the 10 Fashionably Efficient pieces.
Sneak peek! You will be thrilled to see these pieces November 11th and discuss possible designs created just for YOU!
If you have not gotten your tickets yet- be sure to do so! http://fashionablyefficient.eventbrite.com/
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Styling for artist, Laurie King, was so much fun and in the beautiful setting of her work- easy! While shooting biography pictures with your art it’s important to have an elegant fuse of the two, allowing both to POP.
When using the same colors, seen here, use different textures to add visual interest.
More options to be viewed soon!
Featuring her art in New Buffalo, MI.
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More “after” looks! When adding an animal print to your wardrobe, keep the rest of the outfit neutral. Pair with a bright lip and voila! 
Her hot date night look may not be so practical for mom at home but to feel sexy again? Yes!
A velvet jacket adds a great touch to any outfit- casual or dress. Very versatile!
When choosing stripes well- wow! These accentuate all the right places. And, again, a bright lip, loose hair, neutral shoe- lovely!
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Before/during the first wardrobe change: simple makeup can transform a face!
See Lieve taking part as well (waiting for her application.)
Up next? A dark denim makes Jen’s legs look miles long. A simple sweater dressed up with an accessory adds a punch of color brightening her face!
A perfect outfit for a lunch date with the ladies or a parent- teacher conference.
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While Jen is extraordinarily beautiful and super mom, her style has been stuck in a rut. (And rightfully so! While running after 3 children, 5 years old and under, she has a full time job! Plus some.)
Her typical dress up look? A plain black dress- easy and comfortable.
Throughout this short photo session (1 hour) we had kids crawling, combing and bathing. So much fun! ( Wait for the photos, the tale they tell.)
Three looks later, the end result is, truly, magical. Wait until Sunday to see her hot date look!
From left: Liev, Jen & Raif. Below: Finn.
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Whether you’re a busy mom trying to manage the kids or a corporate professional (sans children) or both; you don’t always have time to create and plan your outfits. It could be with your current wardrobe or a new piece you want to wear but don’t know how or where. Here are some examples of my outfit planning services. Cheers!
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Artist- Samantha Morden
Introducing my cousin, 11 year old Samantha Morden! After asking me if I considered myself blonde or brunette (I said blonde) she still included some “brown streaks”- well, because I do have lots of brown right now. Either way LOVE IT. Love how detailed it was down to my dark, big brows and messy bun.
Of course a stylist could not be without her wardrobe pieces.
Thanks Sam!
(She will soon have her own art website available, I will let you all know!)
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See what a difference a simple color change and heel height can do? Transform an entire look! Danita is stunning either way but with a few tweaks she becomes her most extraordinary self!
Color change and heel height accentuate her amazing legs!
Wrong colors can wash you out. Heel height makes her fabulous legs shorten.
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Turn an old piece into one of spring’s hottest trends- COLOR.
One of my favorite DIY projects?
RIT dye! Every so often I will remember how amazing RIT dye is. Spring is approaching and exciting color trenches are hot. I wanted to join!
I had a (too stark) white Colors of Benetton trench coat in my closet for years.
And the times I wanted to wear it? I felt like a doctor in a bright white lab coat.
So I went through my color options and chose one of my favorite colors- a royal blue purple. An easy and inexpensive alternative to buying the new color trenches for spring. UPDATE my friends, update!
(If you haven’t played much with RIT dye be sure to test some pieces first- choose an old t-shirt. Obviously white pieces work best but others can be dyed as well.) Checkout their color chart on RIT.com.
Next up; my updated Chanel and YSL trench.
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When I have mentioned baby powder (in my hair) some have looked confused or a little intrigued. Then I begin to explain- and I cannot believe some ladies have not heard of this simple, cheap and convenient trick. So for all you gals that don’t use baby powder in your hair (especially us faux blondes) you can thank me later! Cheat a little to lighten those roots and skip washes (absorbs oil.) Simply dust in hair and slightly tousle so it is blended.
My other blonde savior? Kiehl’s sunflower shampoo and conditioner. Seriously. Feels & smells amazing. After using and styling my hair I feel like I just got done at the salon (sans complete hair perfection.)
A bit pricey ($18-21) but if you are paying for (let alone the time to be blonde) you need to take great care of your color!
Next week; one of my favorite DIY projects with RIT dye. Too stark white trench turned into one of spring’s hottest trends- a fun color!
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Also an avid polish collector – I typically change colors probably once every week- or, if I love a polish color I will at least refresh my nails. A fresh manicure (or at the very least, a barely there pink) is a must for me; I think nails speak loudly.
To switch things up a bit I picked up a new color from OPI’s new Dallas collection- “I vant to be a lone star:” an icy blue/white/grey color. I have never gotten so many compliments on a nail color before. (Maybe because I was signing many receipts but even so, loving it!)
My best-kept secret weapon to remove your color? Panty liners! Cut in half so you don’t waste. I don’t quite know how I stumbled upon this secret but it has been a complete lifesaver when it comes to removing polish. Sturdy- soaking the remover in so you need less and doesn’t leave the typical residue like other paper products. (Red doesn’t look so sexy.)
Next week- a saving blonde moment!
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Being fashion obsessed and short (5’3”)..meant at an early age I was having pieces constantly hemmed, then waists taken in, sides etc. It honestly transformed my wardrobe and how pieces begin to fit me.
For all you men and women that haven’t gotten pieces altered- I urge you to RUN and find your perfect seamstress. Your wardrobe life will be changed forever.
Here I have taken a Chanel piece (grandma’s) and altered it to a fresh, younger piece- a vest. Yes- some of you will think “Oh the horror-” of altering this Chanel jacket- but I was not wearing it (a lot because of the color) and it was simply a little too outdated. And of course this style can be worn with a shirt underneath but I like the spin and am thinking it will be great worn with a pair of wide leg pants for spring and a few chunky bangles.
The second piece- again was wide in the sides so I simply had those taken in- a great seamstress will create the hourglass shape within the piece itself to accentuate or (fake) the curves we all want!
A word of caution- please, please- make sure you have read reviews or have tested the seamstress/tailor before going all the way with a piece.
More seamlessly couture(d) pieces to come in the following weeks.. another Chanel due to come at the end of February, exciting!
Hanna
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I stumbled across these pictures and it got me thinking …people often wonder how or why I became a stylist. My immediate reaction? My grandmother.
My grandmother; bold and beautiful she was. The pink chiffon dress as a mother-in-law of the bride? Extraordinary! Covering her arms while still showing skin? Amazing. Two tones of blues and dressing her husband similarly? Beautiful.
She was unassuming, unafraid and looked stunning. I still aspire to pull things off that she did (as I have, as many of you know, been able to keep many pieces from her wardrobe.)
My grandmother’s use of color in her wardrobe and her ability to mix and match jewelry, to wear three rings and it not look tacky; this is a feat alone.
At my grandfather’s funeral she wore a charcoal Escada skirt suit with faint purple pinstripes; it was beautiful. Sitting on the couch next to me, she said, “Is it weird I didn’t wear black?”
It wasn’t weird at all. Was she sure to make sure she followed the “dress code?” Sure. But she did so with her own joie de vivre, and added a touch of gold along the way. And undoubtedly her best accessory? Confidence my friends, confidence!
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Velvet blazer
We all love holiday parties right? Not always. Holidays can be pretty stressful between shopping for gifts, wrapping and keeping them hidden! Hopefully these outfits will inspire you or the man in your life to be the best dressed. Or at the very least, your attire could be a conversation starter and confidence booster.
The first, a very traditional combination, can be injected with some fun- a bow tie. Such a fresh alternative to your typical tie, love this marashino cherry one from Barneys.
If you are a tie guy- go for it and add a cool pocket square. Want to skip the tie? Keep the colorful pocket square. Try to jump out of your box a bit this season and play!
The second take on our velvet blazer trend- the oh so fun Robert Graham shirts. Some of the shirts may be “too much” for you. But- paired with dark denim and a dark black velvet blazer, you will be fine, I promise.
Shoes? Simple. John Varvatos makes some of my favorite men’s shoes, simple and clean. We’ve often used them for commercials too! They are a universal go-to.
We’re supposed to enjoy this time of year and be merry, right? Live a little!
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It seems so simple, your hair. But we dye it and we cut it, we put fake hair in it: sometimes it can be our best asset or our worst enemy. Because I have found an amazing, inexpensive hair tool, I have to spread the hair love. Those of you that know me- I often have my hair up in some shape or form (and I would argue I’ve gotten more creative in this field alone.) Similarly to playing dress up in your closet to find that perfect outfit; your hair and its style, takes time and practice. While I know my hair looks better worn down, I still prefer it up as I run around the city finding your perfect shoes or carry clothing racks from my car to your house. BUT I also know, similar to those of you that live in sweatpants, it’s nice to push the boundaries outside of comfort and well, look your (my) best.
I have been, unable, for years to curl my hair with a curling iron- it sounds crazy but I have found I am not the only one who always has a cramp in her ends.
Introducing at an incredible price point- Infiniti Conical Curl Wand. Try this curling iron for easy, fresh waves, hopefully you’ll love it as much as I do!
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Jack E Ohs NYC
Sorry I missed last week- assistant styling for a Cricket Wireless commercial, I’m back!
Recently at STYLEMAX Chicago to see the upcoming spring trends and to shop my favorite Jack E Ohs NYC jewelry- I bought this amazing jeweled owl ring- LOVE IT. Jewelry is such an important part of your wardrobe, it can dramatically change an entire outfit! Keep your eyes peeled for more JEO in future posts..
Transcending trends (one piece at a time): Denim tunic
Featuring Jack E Ohs NYC ring
It has been unseasonably warm here in Chicago and much to our delight fall has been extended! So why not use your summer staple and stack up on outfits?
- Stomp around town in this sturdy boot, denim tunic and a great pair of tights with a different hue- choose a fun color and feel great.
- Chasing after the kids? Wear your trusted legging, a cozy long sweater and this amazing jeweled owl ring by Jack E Ohs-this burst of color will make your hands happy and compliments will follow.
- Need to dress up a little? Throw your tunic under a skirt (choose one with enough fabric to hide tunic underneath) Add a vest and top with a waist belt- you’re ready to go!
Enjoy transcending this week’s trend: Denim tunic. Cheers!
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I was recently on a print job and we always tell our “talent” (yes, models you are talented!) to bring wardrobe; there are colors we emphasize or try to avoid, etc etc. If we are really lucky the models bring half their wardrobes and we stylists LOVE IT (more choices!) For many print jobs there are the simpler outfits- it doesn’t matter if the pant isn’t perfect but it certainly needs to look great on and photograph well.
Last week a model brought a couple pairs of khaki pleated pants and was almost in shock when he found out that pleats were not in. We needed a flat front khaki, absolutely not a pant with pleats! They aren’t flattering and let’s be honest- pleats make you look OLD.
Pleats are defined as:
*Pleats just below the waistband on the front typify many styles of formal and casual trousers, including suit trousers and khakis. There may be one, two, three, or no pleats, which may face either direction. When the pleats open towards the pockets they are called reverse pleats (typical of corduroy trousers) and when they open toward the zipper, they are known as forward pleats.
If you’re reading this and wondering, what will I wear now? Don’t worry! There are so many great options to choose from. Old Navy has a great pant right now in numerous colors called the “Everyday Loose-Fit Khakis” or a dressier khaki from Nordstrom called Nordstrom Smartcare™ Flat Front Supima® Cotton Pants for $79.50. And for a bit of a step up checkout Façonnable Flat Front Corduroy Pants for $195.00.
Top it off with a simple shirt, great olive jacket (check out Marc New York Oxford Weave Military Jacket and a pair of cute aviator’s- voila! Pleats no more.
“Trousers.” Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. Web. 14 Oct. 2010. .
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11 Pieces 24 Looks
After reading answers to the style survey I gave a few months back, the most common answer to the question “What would you do if you had a stylist for a day?” was to learn how to use items currently in the wardrobe or key pieces. We could argue there is a typical key piece list, but for many wardrobes, key pieces are so unique to each lifestyle.
With that said, I have taken 11 pieces that I believe many women have existing in their current wardrobe. And, for the pieces you do not have, use the idea (not a red blouse? you have may have a more structured work shirt that could be used for play versus work only.) During print and commercial jobs we try on dozens of looks to get that one “perfect” look. If you allowed yourself the freedom to play in your closet, you may not only realize that you have more useful clothing than you thought, you may also have dozens of fresh looks just waiting to be worn. Cheers!
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Don’t put away your Maxi dress just yet! I am loving the fresh look of longer skirts for fall. Not only does the maxi dress look great on most body types (AKA it hides quite a bit) even better it can be dressed up or down. Follow these three easy steps to create your own maxi dress look.
• Layer a few fall sweaters over your maxi and cinch your waist with a fun skinny (or wide) belt.
• If you cannot imagine wearing an animal (see vest) choose a simple, open cotton vest in a contrasting color and add some jewels.
• Want a cute look without trying too hard? Throw on a tee and military jacket. Go ahead and look great!
Enjoy transcending this week’s trend: the maxi dress. Cheers!
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What better season to launch my blog? The crispness of the air, the breeze in our hair and an array of colors. Fall has arrived.
Fall brings fresh beginnings. Maybe this year we’ll learn how to layer creatively and look like our best friend that always seems to be so pulled together.
As a stylist, I can tell you that more often than not, the general fall trends are typically repeated, it’s just your (or my) job to make them uniquely yours. Season after season you pack these items away and I can almost guarantee they will come out to play again.
Leopard, velvet, trench coats, military, scarves, layer, repeat, layer, repeat. As a stylist I help my clients, people just like you, stay current on trends. More importantly, I help you infuse the trends into your own wardrobe. You may find you have all necessary items or need just a few, to transform you wardrobe. Something as simple as a vest could add an extra five outfits. You don’t have to be a fashionista to create fresh outfits.
My job as a wardrobe stylist is to provide fresh and creative alternatives to your typical outfits. Let the playing begin!
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