But before we step into Spring Styles, I wanted to remind you that February is the BEST time to purchase a bathing suit (yes, I said bathing suit) as the biggest selection is available and when purchasing swimwear it’s best to have the odds in your favor!  Not sure which is the best cut for your Body Silhouette?  Regardless of where you purchase your beachwear, visit www.landsend.com and check out their Shop by Silhouette guide to help you make the best choice.

 Now, on to my top three picks for Spring 2012!

COLOR BLOCKING- Color blocking fashion is one of the hottest new trends for the season. It combines the use of two or more blocks of color in an outfit. Simply it means – creating an outfit by putting blocks of different solid colors next to each other. It can include monotone, bright colors, muted colors, contrasting and complimentary colors. Clothes, shoes, handbags and accessories can all feature color block designs or can make up different blocks of color to be put together for a color block outfit.  The beauty of color blocking is that it is a powerful tool in balancing out body symmetry.  For instance if you are more generous in your hip area than your upper body, wear a bright color block on top and a dark (black, brown or navy) on your lower half.

 HOT COLORS- Two beautiful color trends for 2012 are the refreshing tiffany blue and the clear warm bright of geranium.  Grab a few pops of color in a blouse, scarf, shoes, handbag or sparkling fashion jewelry.  These beautiful tones will keep your wardrobe looking fashion forward.

SHOES-  Let’s begin with the preppy inspired espadrilles.  You may have some hiding at the back of your closet.  Pull one of the Hot Colors in with your espies or go with a NAUTICAL navy to keep in line with yet another trend of this year.  This spring the kitten heel is also a big hit.  A great choice for feminine, classic and comfortable.

When is it time to begin wearing Spring Trends?  As soon as they hit the market.  Ok, I get it… you may be living in the snow and not ready to pull out your espadrilles, but you can refresh your winter warmies with a pop of color in your scarf or as simple as a springy new lip color!

Do you have a Spring Trend item you are dying to wear?  What is it?

In guiding women (and myself) to complimentary styles, I teach balance and placement of details.  For instance, if you are more generous above the waist, accentuate your hip area with your best cuts and details to create an even silhouette.  How?  Read on…

But before you do… I want to thank In Style Magazine for some of the tips I am sharing with you today!!

Let’s begin from the top and work our way down!

If you love your chest, wear fitted tops or semi- low cut (how low is your personal choice ).  Keep the rest of your outfit fairly simple.  Some key top details would be wide straps, nipped waists, supportive bras and open necklines.  Avoid showing too much cleavage and keep your necklaces above your neckline.

If you don’t want to draw attention to your large chest, stock up on wide leg pants and A-line skirts.  They will balance your frame by adding width to your lower half.  Tops and jackets that are dark, paired with light skirts or pants are perfect for you.  Your sleeves should be simple and narrow and defined shoulders are essential.  High-neck sweaters and wide belts should be avoided at all times!

Are you flat chested?  Have a ball by creating interest at the neckline with ruffles or a medium to large loose bow.  If you’re petite, go for smaller ruffles and bows.  If statuesque stick with fuller ruffles and larger bows.  These all add volume to your bust-line.  Look for tops with horizontal stripes.  Should be a piece of cake this year with the nautical look goin’ on.   You should avoid simple fitted tops and chest-length statement necklaces.

Now let’s discuss your BOOTIE!

If your bum is something to be proud of, choose a tucked in shirt with a high-waisted jean.  You best fabrics are jersey.  Bright colored bottoms are a fun way to accentuate your bottom.  Loose-fitting skirts and pants, and untucked tops will add 10 pounds where they don’t belong.

Wanna keep the eyes away from the BOOTIE?  Pairing a print top with a plain bottom is key for you.  Your jackets and tunics are best at finger-tip length and go with a straight legged jean.  Avoid anything high-waisted and NO white, ivory or light khaki bottoms.

Is yours bottom flat?  Add some bulk to your backside with a simple pant or skirt and a peplum top or jacket (image above).  What’s peplum?  Fitted at the waist with a skirt-like bottom.  Pleated skirts, low-slung waists and rear welt pockets with bling are a great way to add the appearance of volume.  Stiff denim and leggings are a definite NO for you!

Having written this, I realize there are a few things I need to donate!    Now I have a question for you?  Have you been able to identify anything in your closet that needs to go?  Take action!

I view it this way.  A woman makes the decision to begin working out to get rid of a few pounds and makes an appointment with a trainer.  Do you think the trainer will take a look at her when she shows up and laughs at or criticizes her client’s extra weight or jiggles?  I think NOT.

Just like the exercise, when a woman makes the decision to work with stylist, it can be a vulnerable place for her. I provide a place of safety, love and encouragement to educate her to dress the very best for her!

As a stylist is is my JOB and billboard to be well put together (although there are times I am running around in my (cute) workout clothes with a baseball cap (that is a good color for me) on with no makeup!!)  I had a client recently say that when she first met me and saw my image, it was a bit of an intimidation to her because in her words “It seemed like I would never be able to look as well put together.”  And I say… NO!!  No matter our body silhouette or challenges we can look smashing!  My secret is twofold- I treat every day like a special occasion AND as if I might just run into that old flame that broke my heart !

One size does not fit all!!  The beauty of working with individuals is exactly that… they are individuals!  Although I use the same formuals for color consulting and body silhouette analysis, when I work with a client, we take into consideration what she wants to share with the world about herself through her wardrobe (her Style Essence), her desired image, professional and personal roles and lifestyle!!  No two of you lovely ladies can be the same because you are UNIQUE!

There isn’t a day that doesn’t go by when I run into a woman who  says, “Don’t look at what I’m wearing today.  I look like heck!”  I care for and love people for who they are on the INSIDE and the only time I assess (not judge) someone’s clothing is when I have been hired to do so and even then, it is done in a loving and encouraging manner.  I am only human so if I am observing a woman who I would LOVE to work with I am envisioning her in all of the right colors and styles, not mentally tearing down what she currently  has on.

Are any of the above been reasons you have resisted making an appointment with your stylist??  Let’s chat!  Schedule your FREE 30 Discovery Call with me !!

Today I am highlighting shift dresses.  These classics have a beautiful columnar cut and no defined waist.  It can be tricky to find just the right one for your body silhouette so here are a few tips to help!

If you have a large bust focus on vertical or diagonal darts and a slight A-line will help balance your body symmetry.  As always, try to avoid upper body details (like ruffles) that draw even more attention to your bust line.

If you have a tummy (like me) look for a cut that is neither tight or boxy.  Your dress is most flattering when it skims your outline.  Dark color blocking is great for slimming your midsection.  Details at the neckline or hemline will further direct the focus away from, well let’s just say, your pooch!

If you have full hips and thighs the A-line is perfect for you!  Vertical lines always elongate your body.  Lining is a plus as you have a smoother look overall.

If you have a straight figure, a shift dress with some detailing, whether it’s pleating, darts, a pattern or a lower neckline, adds curves and definition to your figure.  Avoid plain styles that are stiff or loose as they will add visual pounds!

Now to add the FUN!  Depending on your neckline, choose a bib necklace, a long strand or a pendant to SHINE your Style Essence.

Do you have a fave shift dress?

Between Christmas and New Year is a week of extra reflection and
organization in my mind and household.  A bit about my reflection…
(next post about organization!)

New Year, New YOU!!

Discover Your Empowered Style LIVE Workshop
(we extended the early bird pricing thru midnight Friday- don’t miss out!)

When you take the ACTIONS to honor and care for yourself you FEEL fabulous!

What action(s) will you take today??

Much of my clientele is in their 40’s and 50’s and are often asking to freshen up their look, moving it a bit more fashion forward, while maintaining age-appropriateness.

Well ladies… let’s move fashion forward!

What’s aging your look?  Mom slacks.  They are the professional version of mom jeans, with a pleated front and high waist.

Try… a flat front, mid-rise trouser with a straight or boot cut.  Pants should really sit at the hip and drape from there.  The pants should barely hug your thighs and gradually get a bit wider toward the hem to balance you out.

What’s aging your look?  Visible Panty Lines (VPL).  The make for a lumpy rear and to take that a step further an unsupportive or ill-fitting bra can drag you (and the “girls”)down.

Try... If your’e not into trying a thong try Vanishing Edge Underwear from Soma.  Get professionally fitted for a bra.  I usually send my clients to Nordstrom or Soma for great fitters.  For more on bras, check out my previous post.  Your Breast Foundation Ever.  Your Proper Bra Size and Care for more great tips.

What’s aging your look?  Boxy cuts.  Ok.. your 22 year old body is long gone.  That’s no reason to hide under muumuu-esque tunics, manly suits or those pajama-like separates.  “The older you get, the more important it is to have properly fitting clothes,” says Kim Johnson Gross, the author of What to Wear for the Rest of Your Life.

Try… Well tailored or draped garments- for example, a structured jacket with a nipped waist or a ruched jersey dress- hint at your figure while camouflaging the parts that you’re not so crazy about.  No matter your size, formfitting (not tight, just more tailored) clothes make you look younger, because you’re showing that you have a bust, a waist and hips.

 What observations do you have about styles that age?

Stay tuned for Parts Two and Three!!

First (and you know I’m all about comfort) it will keep you warm!  So often I go to holiday parties and want to show off my cocktail attire, only to be shivering!   Donning your snowball of a cropped jacket will give any outfit that festive feeling and keep you toasty!

Secondly, your addition of glorious plush will step any outfit up a little (or a lot)!  Pair it with jeans and a fitted tee or turtleneck and you will look fab for a more casual night out with your hub or the girls!

Which style to choose? First a quick lesson on dressing for your Body Silhouette.   The key is to balance the symmetry of your body.  For instance, if you are more generous in your upper body, you want to try and go for a longer style with the detail or flair at your hips.  If the opposite is true and you are more generous in your hips, go for a style that will draw attention to your upper body, like a puffy sleeve or embellishment above the waist.

Take a look at these furry resplendent additions to your holiday look!  Tie Tie Front Fur Vest by Karen Kane (pictured above) or this beautiful animal print cropped jacket at Nordstrom.com (pictured right) .  

Do you have something furry and warm to add to your festive holiday attire?

Time to pull out your Perfect Black Dress (PBD).  Take it out today and make sure it is clean!  Below I will share a few ways to keep your look festive and fashion forward.  If you don’t have a PBD, I put together some tips on how to choose one.

Before we step into the perfect cut for your Body Silhouette keep this in mind.  It MUST be comfortable!  My fav PBD is from Karen Kane.  When I slip it on it feels like I’m wearing my pajamas!  Made from a combination of a knit rayon/spandex blend.

No pulling or shifting or sucking it in.  It’s tough to feel confidence when you are worrying about whether your bra is showing or feeling the need to focus the whole evening on sucking in your tummy.

Having said that, Nordstrom and I put together some tips for choosing that Perfect Black Dress (PBD)!

 Petite:

The PBD for the petite frame elongates and flatters like this three-quarter sleeve Donna Morgan dress with ruffle trim (Buy Direct.)  Look for a dress with a lot of shape and horizontal seaming — and is scaled just right for your figure. The hemline should hit at or slightly above the knee.  Avoid too-cutesy looks (like puffed sleeves or giant bows) so you won’t look little girlish.

 Sensitive About Your Arms:

Don’t worry: you don’t have to look matronly to cover up your arms. The trick is to keep the sexy element with embellishment or peekaboo cutouts on your PBD. A sheer-sleeve dress is another great way to get some sex appeal and still conceal arms. (Buy Direct)

Curvy:

Just because your figure has curves doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a PBD. And nothing looks sexier than showing a little skin in an elegant scarf draped dress. (Buy Direct).  Look for designs enhancing and make you look and feel even more beautiful than they already are.

 Wide Shoulders:

You don’t need to hide your upper body in your PBD if you have wide shoulders. Instead, look for body-balancing details like the trendy asymmetrical neckline, like this one-shoulder style (Buy Direct) Avoid puffy sleeves or voluminous tops paired with slim bottoms that will exaggerate your shoulder width.

 Wide Hips:  

The easiest way to balance a bottom-heavy figure is to choose a PBD that skims over the lower half of the body. Fuller skirts, like this Monique Lhuilllier dress, (Buy Direct) disguise heavy hips, while showing off the waist. A fitted halter or strapless silhouette — which accents a trim upper body — is very flattering for bottom-heavy figures.

 Full Bust:

Balance a top-heavy figure in a PBD by opting for the most flattering necklines for the full bust: the V-neck, square neck, wrap or portrait style like this Maggy London dress. (Buy Direct). Look for fabrics that skim (jersey is good), but aren’t clingy or too stiff. Also, avoid ornate necklines, embellished bodices and blouson styles.

 Small Bust:

Most clothing actually hangs better on women with smaller busts, but if you want to add more volume up top look for embellishment or fullness on the bust. This dress (Buy Direct) has ruffles on the bust that give it volume, plus a defined waist which flatters the upper body.

If you are still struggling to find the PBD, choose separates.  Choosing a skirt and top (using the same tips above) can give the same elegance as the PBD.

 Now Accessorize It!!

Now that you have your PBD (or separates), here are a few tips to make it a timeless piece that you can wear it multiple times and keep the look fresh!

Bring color and festivity in by wearing a statement shawl or pashmina.  Not sure how to wear it?  Take a look! … or…Faux fur is all the rage this season so bring it on with a wrap or short jacket!  Warm and cozy!

Your jewelry plays a key role in your look!  Wear small fine jewelry for the Classy Lady look or chunky fashion jewelry for a more fashion forward City Chic look.

Your SHOES!  This is the perfect time to step into some statement shoes.  Do they need to be black.  NO!!  Have fun with a red patent peeptoe! 

Your handbag!  Just like with the shoes, have FUN!  No, the bag does not need to match the shoes.  Fun to go with black, head to toe and then pop some color with your evening bag.

Once you check the PBD off your list, it’s time to celebrate the season with family and friends!  Hope your holidays are fabulous and blessed.

What accessorizing tip will you use this year for your PBD?  I love to learn from you, so please do share!

Smiles, J

Necklaces

Women of average height and weight, those with oval faces, and thin, tall women can select almost any style of necklace. Necklaces of same-size pearls or gemstones are especially attractive on tall women. Chokers help de-emphasize height.

The rectangular face needs jewelry that adds width and disguises its length. Both chokers and U-shaped necklaces reduce the length help break up the angles to flatter the face. These styles also help soften the sharp chin of a triangular or heart-shaped face.

Longer necklaces help lengthen the look of square or round faces. They also add stretch to a short frame when worn below the bust line but above the waist.

For the full-figured, longer styles draw the eye downward elongating your height. Pieces with larger stones and/or thicker chains are also preferable to small, delicate pieces

Bracelets

Wider bracelets are more proportionate for women of average height. Narrow bands and bangles are great choices for petite women. Delicate bracelets make longer arms look gangly. Depending on height, either several narrow bands worn together or a couple of wide bands adds balance to a full figure.

Rings

Select rings according to the size and shape of your finger.  Long fingers can handle almost any style of ring. However, oval or round settings soften the look of overly thin fingers and wider bands are more flattering than thin ones.

If your fingers are short, measure the area between the knuckle on your hand and the first joint of your finger. Make sure the setting and stone don’t extend past the knuckle. As well as being uncomfortable, rings that cover the knuckle tend to make fingers look shorter. Narrow bands are definitely a better choice for short fingers!

Jewelry can play such a key part in your LOOK, so have fun!!

 Based on what you learned above, what piece are you going to pull out and wear??

I decided to share with you the 10 Things I Think Every Woman Should Have in Her Closet”! Not all are what you might think!

1.  Column of color- a matching solid colored pant (or skirt) and underpinning or layering top. Winters are best in black. Springs go for a light to medium brown. Summers choose a light to medium gray. Autumns look great in rich chocolate brown. Not sure about your colors? Check out My Perfect Color Palette.

2.  Jeans with a dark wash- These make all of my lists! So versatile you can dress ‘em up or down.

3.  Neutral Colored V, Scoop or Cowl Neck Cashmere Sweater. If cashmere bothers you, go for a tightly woven good quality cotton (with a bit of stretch) knit sweater.

4.  Metallic shoes- Winters and Summers choose pewter and Springs and Autumns go for bronze.

5. A matching metallic purse! Your metallics are your BEST neutrals! LOVE em

6.  Scarf in a POP Color! Nothing better than a scarf to bring color reflecting light to make your skin look radiant!

7.  A WOW necklace or choker. While making your choice be a little BOLD and go for one that really makes a statement.

8.  A FRESH sachet! Lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, cedar and orange essential oils are eco-friendly moth repellants and are safe!

9.  A clothing steamer!! I LOVE my TObi Steamer! I use it every day.  Take a look at my instructional video on how to use it.

10. An attitude of self-love- When we step into the closet and make the choice to put our best foot forward in really caring about our appearance it makes a difference in how we feel about ourselves, our relationships and our business success!

What would YOU add to that list?

To YOUR Empowered Style!