Wardrobe Therapy

2010 puts the decision in your hands

Have you ever paid attention to a person’s uniform?  From gas station employees to astronauts in space, everyone is wearing one.  I guarantee the uniform being worn by any person you encounter will in some way influence your interaction with them, and vice-versa.

The uniform you wear tells people who you are.  If a guy is wearing a football uniform, you know he plays football, or a woman in a suit is more than likely some sort of executive.  And if they aren’t a football player or an executive, they have made you believe they were by what they were wearing.

So what is your uniform and what does it say about you?  With spring on the way, I am sure you are already thinking about dragging your spring/summer clothes out and swapping them with your winter garb.  I know that I totally have the itch, but before you do make sure you are clear on what your new spring 2010 uniform will be.

So what trends am I seeing?  Well, it’s a mixture of decades and lifestyles; royalty meets military, the Rat Pack hanging with James Dean.  But one thing is for sure, it’s back to class.  If you have held on to the right pieces from 1990, well, you’re also in luck.  We are already beginning to see items such as vintage leather bags and jackets, cargo pants, denim shirts, cuffed trousers and plaid galore.  My personal favorite in stores right now is the military inspired clothing.  However, my dear fashionistas, remember one important thing, when going with the military/royal inspired wears, don’t overdo it! Your look should feel military inspired, not military issued, and unless you want to look like Elton John, please leave the powder wigs and royal jewels at home!

(to finish reading this article in its entirety, please pick up the March issue of Outlook Magazine!)

Cheers!

Ryan

If there’s ever a good time to join the gym… it might just be this season for our fearless fashionistas!
The hemlines are getting a little shorter… but of course, with everything in moderation! At the Spring 2010 runway shows, designers such as Alexander Wang, Brian Reyes, Erin Fetherston, and Phillip Lim enjoyed showing off a “little leg”.

Brian Reyes, Spring 2010

Erin Fetherston, Spring 2010

Alexander Wang, Spring 2010

3.1 Phillip Lim, Spring 2010

When taking this runway look and applying to your everyday life, this definitely is not one we recommend for a formal office. But look for opportunities to pair your favorite mid-length short with a soft blouse and a boyfriend cardigan or blazer.  It can be a great look for the casual work environment or meeting, just make the hemline a little longer.  To take into evening, try a little shine, like metallic or sequins, like this one from Alice + Olivia. Pair with a more formal blouse or jacket… This is a look we are recommending only for women who are confident showing a little leg!

Adam, "Emma" short available at netaporter.com

Alice + Olivia, Metallic Short $198

Is anybody else ready for Spring?  Good bye Old Man Winter… hello fabulous Spring!

Keep Making Everyday A Runway!

Do you have the Blues? I’m hoping so! One of the hottest trends this spring in both Men and Women is Denim. On the top, bottom, or anywhere in between, Denim is Dangerous and that makes this our Trend Alert #2.

On The Top:

The Denim shirt is so demanding, it’s impossible not to take notice. Not to mention it is also versatile with a capital V!

Calvin Klein Denim Shirt, Featured in GQ

Casual: Layer your denim shirt over your favorite tee and hit your local hangout for a casual day or evening get together.

Classic: Under a suit vest, cardigan, or a skinny tie, paired with your favorite jeans, this look is ready for that night out on the town.

Chic: Layer under any color suit with a colorful tie or bow tie and your ready for the office or that red carpet event!

On The Bottom:

Nothing wears a man like a great pair of denim, so when you are on the hunt, believe me, when I say there is such a thing as the “perfect pair”. If you get it right, it will be like having your childhood blanky all over again!

Levi

Casual: Pair them up with sandals, vintage graphic tee, and afternoon cocktails…need I say more?

Classic: Throw on your light blazer and your trusty Chucks to look classically relaxed.

Chic: Give your tux a fresh new feel by simply replacing your suit pant with your favorite denim.

In Between:

Denim is one of the most reliable fabrics out there, that’s why we often refer to them as our “Trusty Jeans”. Since denim is so trust worthy, I’m sure you wouldn’t mind allowing it to hold your cash and credit cards, and many designers knew you would feel that way. Check out this wallet from Burberry.

Burberry Black Label, Denim Wallet

Casual, Classic, and Chic all rolled into one.

With all of the current snowfall, and winter dragging on (and on), I have a feeling that it’s the Fashionistas that will be coming in like the lion this spring. So go ahead; get Dangerous With Your Denim!

Cheers!

Ryan

Anything from soft flesh-tone hues to earthy neutrals is going to be on the hot list for spring. They are delivering now to our favorite local stores but you can also find them in your own wardrobe. Since nudes are AKA neutral colors, they go well when combined with either bright or dark colors.  Yes, lime yellow or dark navy paired back to nude is very chic.

Need-the-Nude know how?

1.  Fabric is everything.  Make sure the piece you find isn’t too tight or that the body-hugging silhouettes look like another layer of skin. (We’re sure you can image it done wrong).  It’s all in the drape.

2.  Choose shades wisely.  Because nude colors tend to wash out some skin tones, mix nudes with black and darker neutral tones like navy and gray.  You will instantly feel polished and on-trend.

3.  Proper undergarments are key! With all of the pretty underpinnings for Spring 2010, we’re sure you won’t struggle finding a simple nude set that doesn’t show through your new favorite, nude blouse or jumpsuit.

Blumarine Spring 2010

Donna Karan, Spring 2010

Hermes, Spring 2010

3.1 Phillip Lim, Spring 2010

Nude isn’t just uber fabulous in the clothing collections.  You’re seeing it on shoes, handbags, and accessories.

Jimmy Choo, Net-A-Porter

Maison Martin Margiela, Net-A-Porter

Miu Miu, Net-A-Porter

What are you waiting for?  Get Nude!!

Make Everyday a Runway!

Calling all Cupids.  With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, what are you doing for the woman who can’t wait to brag to her girlfriends about your fabulous gift? Or what about the Men who play it cool, but care just as much?  Or even more so… just need an excuse to share the experience together.  Have no fear.. the cupid twosome is here!

Couple’s Therapy

The Twosome

Wanting a wardrobe update for you and your better half?  Allow Ryan and Elizabeth to work together in creating the perfect twosome.  Ryan is here for the men.  Elizabeth will work with the ladies (or your lover) .  What a better way to get your Spring Wardrobe running then doing it together?  Isn’t that what Valentine’s Day is all about?

What you get: 4 hours total working within your wardrobe.  Call to receive more information on this fabulous package!

For Him
Ryan will work his magic.  Tired of the morning routine.. “Honey, does this match?”  Save some time and energy allowing Ryan to make the perfect outfit combinations, so your man can be the talk of the town, not just the water cooler at the office.

What you get: 3 hours of Wardrobe Consulting putting together 10-20 outfits that can take you from the lake to the bank.

For Her:
Isn’t our fav word “love”? Enjoy being pampered for 3 hours reviewing your current wardrobe to make you look and feel “Springtastic.”   Doesn’t every woman want to feel like a celebrity for the day?
What you get: 3 hours of Wardrobe Consulting reviewing the items you currently own and indicating what items you need to add in!

Hurry Cupid! Time is running out! Call before Monday, February 15th to receive these fabulous packages!!

Make Everyday a Runway!

Have you ever walked past a man and recognized their cologne, or felt the urge to recommend one? Did you give them a second look or did you keep on walking? As we all know, scent is one of the 5 Human senses, and certain smells instantly evoke specific memories or feelings which can control your reaction rather you want it to or not. Now imagine someone walking past you on the street, or standing next to you in line. What emotion are you evoking in that person by your scent? The wrong scent can give that person a negative impression, where the correct scent can create quite the favorable experience. Finding the right scent for you is just as important to your overall image as the latest fashions in your wardrobe.

It’s important to know that every scent or cologne smells different on every person. The way a scent reacts to your body is a question of chemistry. While you like what your friends are wearing, it could make you smell more like you borrowed your grandfathers Old Spice.

With this in mind, it’s always important to try cologne before purchasing it. But cruising the cologne counter smelling little paper cards isn’t necessarily the best way to go. You need to take time to really ‘bond’ with the scent, and see how it makes you feel and how people react. But how can you do this without hitting the department store every couple of days? Well, I have the perfect solution for you!

Start with the Deluxe Fragrance Sampler at Sephora. This unique item is the perfect gift, or for yourself when you’re not sure which one to choose. This set includes twelve samples of top-selling men’s fragrances to try. But what makes this item extra special is a gift voucher that can be redeemed at any Sephora store for a full-sized bottle of any one of the samples included. Try them all and see not only the reaction you receive from your friends and family, but also how each scent makes you feel. Once you have found the perfect scent, exchange your gift voucher for a full size bottle! How easy is that?

Now if you are anything like me, everyday has a different vibe, which deserves a different scent, right? And you may not want a scent that has already been created. Well this is perfect! Called the Coffret, this collection allows you to create your very own scent, unique only to you. With descriptions such as, Seductive, Sexy, Provocative, Confident, Successful, Charismatic, Romantic, Desirable, Sensual, Adventurous, Creative, Experimental, Hypnotizing and Delicate, how can you not find the right combination for yourself?

Remember that when you are experimenting with all the different colognes out there, try smelling coffee beans between each scent. The coffee will neutralize the scents, allowing your sense of smell to accurately analyze several scents in one sitting. Also remember that it’s always best to ask the opinion of others….after all, they can smell you long after you have grown immune to the aroma of you. And if you like to fog yourself in cologne 10 times a day (I’m so guilty) make sure it’s the right one!

Cheers!

Ryan

Alexander Wang

Alexander Wang

Alexander Wang=Simple and Sporty.  Long Wavy Braid.  So chic.  Completely effortless. Hermes also embraced this hair trend.

Adam

Blumarine

Adam left the hair almost feeling untouched.  No fussiness.  And thank the hair goddesses, no extensions! Blumarine was playful and loose.  Loving the waves. Think of the sand, sun and beach.

Badgley Mischka

Badgley Mischka

Badgley Mischka continued with the simplicity.  Everything from wear to work suits to cocktail suits and dresses… the hair remained the same. Simple.  Pulled-back elegance.

Long or Short hair= keep it simple.  Sophisticated.
Keep Making Everyday a Runway!

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of men’s accessories? For me, it is watches. They can say so much about a man. Where he’s been.  Where he’s going.  What he’s doing. Or what he wants to do. Right now, every watch I see on a man leaves me wondering “What made him pick that one?” From a fashion stand point, there are so many different styles, colors, finishes, and from a man’s standpoint, it’s about the mechanics, durability and reliability. In my quest to answer this question, I have spotted a few watches that in my opinion meet all the qualifications and most importantly, I want them all. And the best part is you can find them all at Macy’s!

My first pick says to me… that he is a mix between the fashionable gentleman meets the modern man. This handsome D&G watch features a cognac croc-embossed leather strap and round stainless steel case. It can take you from the weekend cabin to the boardroom. With seconds etched in bezel, silver tone chronograph dial, date window and three sub-dials, this watch is definately for the man who needs to stay on time, no matter where he is.

D & G Chronograph Brown Leather Strap, $275

My second pick is multi-functional with a classy style. Meeting up with a few of the guys at the gym for a quick game or workout? From Hugo Boss, this silver tone stainless steel watch is the perfect way to stay on time while playing at the gym, and look great doing it. This watch features a black rubber strap, stainless steel round case, round black dial with three sub dials and date window. Not to mention that it has chronograph movement and it is water resistant to 100 meters. Go on, hit the showers…..the other guys will be jealous.

Hugo Boss, Black Rubber Watch, $395

My third pick is definitely for a man who wants to be noticed. This watch from Rado is the perfect modern, classy style for the man who has it all. From sun up to sun down, no matter where you go, this black ceramic bracelet and square case watch will arrive before you do. Featuring a square black dial with four sub dials, it is sure to be the envy of all.

Rado Black Ceramic Bracelet Watch, $3600

Sticker shock? Check out this much less expensive watch from Citizen with a similar look. This watch features a black textured stainless steel bracelet and case, black dial, date window, silver tone indicators and geometric markers, and it has solar powered movement!

Citizen Eco Drive Black Stainless Steel, $275

My final pick is for the man who has never lost his boyish imagination. Gear up for bold style with this dashboard-inspired watch from Diesel. Featuring a textured black dial with silvertone and black detailing, logo, one analog and one digital subdial.  This watch will not only keep time, but also everyone’s interest.

Diesel, $225

So when you are looking to replace your existing watch, or just in the market for a new one, remember that the watch you choose will tell much more than just time. Like your own personal crystal ball, it can tell people who you are. Don’t believe me? The next time a man reaches out to shake your hand, I bet you check out his watch!

Cheers!

Ryan

Trend Alert:  Peep-Toe Booties.  You didn’t think they would be around for long… right? They are.. and we couldn’t be happier! They will be everywhere for Spring 2010 … and designers have even began sharing with WWD sketches of the Fall 2010 collections.. the peeps are here to stay for a bit.

So let’s let out our toes…and embrace this trend.  So stylish.

Steve Madden $109, Available at macys.com

Glamour Girl.  Style these Steve Madden’s with your skinny denim or cotton leggings and a feminine blouse and long sweater cardigan.

Dolce Vita $175, Available at shopbop.com

More of a trendsetter?  Make the outfit with these pair of booties.  Great price too.  Perfect for spring.. and will last through fall.

Report Signature $250

If Classic is your style.  Don’t be afraid to pair back to a classic black sheath dress, black opaque tights and a classic blazer.  Move these into the springtime with a classic fitting pant and pretty blouse.

Elizabeth and James $360, Available at Nordstrom

Need a pair to throw on with your favorite party dress?  Look no more.  These can be dressed up… and toned down.

Jimmy Choo $995, Available at Saks

For the serious fashionistas.  These will become a priority when picking out your favorite outfit.  Don’t we always pick the shoe first?

Proenza Schouler

Always the risk taker.  Always the glory.

Make Everyday a Runway!

New Clothes into wardrobe + New Year - Old Clothes not being removed=Chaos in Closet

Isn’t this equation so true?  At the start of each new year… we always think that we’re going to to get rid of the old, and make room for the new.  But it’s not always as easy as we think.  Because, seriously do you want to get rid of your live-in cardigan, that is pilling.. but so perfect for a Sunday, Funday? Or what about the boots that you haven’t fixed the heel yet, and only remember to when putting them on for that certain outfit?  Therefore, they get thrown back in the wardrobe… until the next time
(and never get fixed?)

Simple steps to shape up your wardrobe… and not feel guilty later.

1.  Use the Back of Your Closet Door

Over-the-door organizers are perfect for storing shoes, ties, handbags or other small accessories without using shelf space.  We love this one from Home Decorators collection.  It’s only $29… and holds 12 shoes (or be creative.. can hold jewelry and ties too!)

2. Free Up Your Closet Rod

Empty hangers are one of the biggest space takers in your closet. Don’t keep more hangers than you have articles of clothing. Take your wire hangers to your local dry cleaner.. they will recycle!  If you have a small wardrobe.. wood hangers can be over used.  Yes, they are easy on your clothing, however they take up valuable space! Try these instead.  Non-Slip Flocked Hangers.  You can find them just about anywhere.  We found these at slimlinehangers.com

3.   Store Off-Season Clothes

Take the off-season clothing in your wardrobe.. and store in another location of your home.  If you have storage space in an attic, basement, or another room,  pack off-season clothes in bags that are properly sealed and store them out of your closet. This will allow you to see what items you are currently working with in your wardrobe for the particular season (and not to mention add space!)  Both from The Container Store.

4.  Donate.

Any items that are in your wardrobe and still have tags (from previous years’ clean out.  Donate.)
Use the “two-year” rule. If an item has been there for two years and has not been used or worn, get rid of it. Chances are it is not needed and it is taking up much needed space.  Give to your local charity.

We’re getting ready for the New Year, are you?
Make Everyday of 2010 a Runway!