Why does that matter? It’s all very scientific. I am certified through a company called Color Me Beautiful. CMB was founded in the early 1980‘s by a stylist and a scientist. They took into consideration a person’s dominant color characteristic~ their hair, and their secondary color characteristic~ their eyes. They paired the hair color/eye color into four different combinations and came up with a color palette for each one~ naming them after the seasons~ Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter. Spring and Autumn have a warm tone palette and Summer and Winter have a cool tone palette. In short, the colors they chose for each palette compliment a woman’s coloring from a natural harmonious standpoint.

Why is this important? Wearing the wrong colors can make you look sick, tired and accentuate any facial imperfections. Wearing the right colors makes you look more vibrant and healthy, your eye color pops, your teeth look whiter and you look YOUNGER!! When the colors you don are in harmony with your own coloring, you are more attractive and more approachable. Good for business? YES! Good for relationships? YES!! Good for your confidence? DOUBLE YES!!

Back to Sue! As women age, they begin to lose color. In their hair, eyebrows, eyelashes, lips- well… you get the picture. She felt safest in black. Sound familiar? As I worked with Sue, it became clear that she was a bit insecure about showing up in color. Once she stepped out of the box and began wearing color~ little by little~ she received compliment after compliment and became MORE confident. See how it all works?

Are you ready to embrace YOUR best colors?? We’re so excited to highlight our NEW FEATURE  at Wardrobe Rx.  You can self-determine your OWN color palette and purchase a Wardrobe Color Wallet with colors that will make you SHINE!!

Have a colorful DAY!!

Blazers polish your look and take it to the next level.  Think of your blazers as the finishing touch.  Keep your Color Season, Style Essence and Body Silhouette in mind when choosing yours.  The practical side of me says, choose one or two of your foundation colors, but the free spirit in me insists you grab one in one of the bold colors of 2012!

When shopping for a coat, make sure to purchase at least one matching piece.  If you want to create suiting, choose pants or a skirt.  At a minimum, add a matching underpinning or blouse.  Take a look at the ensemble I just purchased (above).  If you have not already entered the KK Sweepstakes (before 4/15/12), make sure to do it and let them know I sent you!

Step into Empowered Style and pick up a blazer next time you’re shopping!  You’ll be the best dressed woman in the room!

Then I began my profession as a Personal Touch Consultant with Nordstrom.  I began to make mental notes about the women who seemed to shop successfully.  NOOOOO, they were not all size 2 with an unlimited budget!  They were the women who came prepared and with a positive attitude.  I though I’d pass on some of  those tips to you!!

*Set your budget and stick to it.  If it helps you to be more disciplined, take cash!

*Make a list of your needs and prioritize them.  Try not to be discouraged if you don’t end up with everything on your list.  That is where the beautiful internet comes in!!

*Pre-shop online.  Search engines ROCK!!  Use them to track down what you are looking for and find the best price.  Searching online saves you time and money.

*Primp!  Take extra time on your hair and makeup.  Make sure you begin the day looking your very best!!  It WILL affect your shopping mood and success!  Your attitude towards yourself that day is the single most important element in accomplishing your shopping goals!!

*Dress comfortably and wear the appropriate undergarments for what you are shopping for.  For instance, if you are on the hunt for a dress and usually wear shape-wear with your dresses, bring the shape-wear with you.  In choosing your outfit for the day, consider the ease of on/off when changing!  If you wear flats to shop, tuck a pair of heels in your “shopping bag” (see below) for try-on and hemming purposes!

*Pack a “shopping bag”.  Remember your Wardrobe Color Wallet, second pair of shoes, shape-wear, socks/nylons peds for trying on shoes, and SNACKS .  I like trail mix, granola bars and apples.  Lighten up your purse contents that day and tuck it in the bag.

*Allow yourself plenty of time.  No need to rush and make unnecessary impulse purchases.

*Shop alone if possible.  If you want a second opinion, ask store management for the most knowledgeable sales associate or take a trusted and fashionable friend.  Be sure to make sure that you are making your purchases for YOU, not to please the sales associate or your friend!!

*Turn your phone on silent.  This is YOUR time.

 Do you have any additions to my tips?  Please do share!

 Have an amazing time treating yourself!  Now that you are armed with these shopping tips, you’ll be sure to find exactly what you are looking for!!

Smiles, JuliAnn

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?