STYLEnosh

HAVE YOU LET YOURSELF GO?

I’m not specifically talking about what’s hanging in your closet. Think holistically. Consider your self-confidence and your career aspirations in addition to your wardrobe. Have you become one of the walking dead?

It’s so easy to crawl out of bed each day and exude the general attitude of “I just don’t give a crap.” Sometimes we see this behavior displayed through what we wear, disguised as, “I don’t have time to think about what I wear everyday.” And sometimes, we may even be bold enough to tell people that we really just don’t care about anything these days. But often, the sentiment that drives these feelings is ingrained so deeply into what we’ve become that it’s no longer identifiable.

So whatdaya do? I say, you need rejuvenate your soul. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Identify the problem – If you need to update your look, check out my previous post on recapturing your style. If yours is a more internal issue, take the time to uncover what’s causing the problem. Read books or blogs on self-improvement. (I highly recommend Steve Pavlina’s Personal development for Smart People site.)

• Create an improvement plan – Need a better wardrobe? Create a plan that gets you one over time. Interested in living a healthier lifestyle? Research ways to make positive changes in your life today.

• Take small steps - Implement short steps. SARK calls these actions microMOVEments. It's an ingenious way to break down a daunting task and actually drive it home to completion. The point is don't feel like you need to make huge changes all at once.

• Reward yourself! - Give yourself credit for identifying the problem and taking action to correct it. Buy a new cd or book. Treat yourself to a nice lunch. Or do whatever makes you feel good after a major (or minor) accomplishment.

By taking action to make a change, any positive change, you can move from letting yourself go to watching your life, wardrobe, or career grow.

STYLE TIPS: FASHION IS FLEXIBLE

Do you have certain trends permanently housed on the “I wouldn’t be caught dead in that” list? I’ve definitely added a few such trends to my list. But over time I’ve come to realize that even though some styles may not work for you initially, making slight adjustments can make the look work after all.

Here are some trends to reconsider:

Skinny jeans – I know. You hate me right now don’t you? I understand because I was completely against this trend too. And while I’m not suggesting you get a pair of stovepipes, you can get a pair of jeans with a straighter pant leg. Balance your leaner, lower silhouette with a more voluminous top.

Shorts – Shorts are tough. Let’s face it, who wants to show the world their thighs unless they absolutely have to (i.e. primary care physicians and paramedics come to mind). However, with the longer length currently seen on shorts today, you don’t have to forego this comfortable summer trend. Please note that if you’re on the shorter side, your legs will look longer if your shorts hit at or just above the knee.

Floral prints – How many times have I heard people say, “I hate floral prints.” Oh wait, that may have been me. Anyhoo, the point here is that floral prints are big from jackets to shoes and every article of clothing in between. There are tons of options to try. If your upper body is larger than your lower half, try a solid color shirt with a floral print, A-line skirt.

I do agree that all trends are not meant for all people. But having an open mind just might lead you to a stylish new look.

STYLE TIPS: WORK & PLAY

I purchased this cool, little jacket from the Target Proenza Schouler line and I've only worn it once. Recently, I thought of two new ways to work this piece.

The plaid jacket looks great for Work when paired with red, wide-leg pants.

And the jacket easily transforms to Play when you add a basic pair of khaki shorts and a hobo, white bag.

FASHION TIPS: WHAT TO WEAR TO THE BBQ

I know that many of you are going to barbeques and cookouts this time of year so I thought I give you a few quick tips on how to dress comfortably without sacrificing style.

• Think loose – If you’re going to be out walking around in the hot sun (i.e. enjoying a festival) or gorging yourself with turkey burgers and baked beans (okay, maybe it’s just me), it’s probably not the day to wear you tight shirt and second skin jeans. Select clothing that’s comfortable enough to accommodate sticky weather and all day eating.

• Select light fabrics – I like silk as much as the next person but I don’t think it’s the most comfortable selection for outdoor activities. You’ll feel more at ease if you’re wearing breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.

• Kill the PJs – Hanging out at a cookout or walking through a beautiful park are typically quite relaxing activities. However, these scenarios don’t justify leaving the house wearing clothing that’s better suited for bedtime. (I especially hate those baggy, printed pants that some men wear with a tight A-shirt screaming out, “Hey look me! I work out. A LOT!) Remember, comfort doesn’t mean sloppy.

My basic cookout outfit is pretty simple. Jeans, tank top, and strappy sandals. I’m comfortable and chic. Now if I could just get someone to grill me a turkey burger.

PLACES TO DONATE YOUR EXCESS CLOTHING

In a previous post, I talked about overspending and buying things you don’t need. Just in case some of you get the notion to clean out your closets and purge some of those items that you haven't used, I thought I'd give you a list of places that can actually use your stuff. And if you’d like to donate your gently used clothing to a particular cause, go to Google and search those types of organizations in your area.

Salvation Army - Still a great place to donate anything you no longer need or don't have space to house.

Goodwill - Same as above. They even have convenient small trailer locations in some shopping plazas.

Society of St. Vincent de Paul – I became familiar with this nonprofit organization when I lived in Michigan. They too have a large network of stores around the country.

Dress for Success – This organization provides professional attire for disadvantaged women looking to improve their work image.

And don’t forget to inspect all clothing for holes, smells, and stains. Remember, the people that will receive your previously owned merchandise want decent quality too.

TOP 5 SIGNS YOU MIGHT BE A SHOPAHOLIC

I’ve often joked about being a shopaholic. I’ve paid money for things I didn’t need but had to have. And I’ve definitely spent money on things that I couldn’t afford. But I managed to emerge relatively unscathed. Mentally and financially thank goodness. Then I decided to use my shopping talents for good not evil.

My past behavior has been the butt of many self-inflicted puns, but was it really an indication of a larger issue? Take this quiz on compulsive shopping to see if you are indulging in damaging behavior and tips for correcting it.

Below are the signs that you may have a compulsive shopping problem: *

• You shop when you’re upset, sad, or depressed.

• You feel "high” while shopping.

• You feel remorse or shame after a shopping binge.

• You use credit cards to finance your shopping needs.

• You never use or wear the items you purchase.

Also check out the debt consolidation blog for information on how to reduce your spending and improve your financial security.

* Information obtained from http://www.betotallyfree.com/articles/Are_You_a_Shopaholic.pdf and http://moneycentral.msn.com/content/SavingandDebt/P61942.asp

INEXPENSIVE WAYS TO GENERATE A FASHION PICK ME UP

Sometimes you need a little fashion pick me up to boost your style motivation. In days gone by nothing could boost my fashion spirits like a new Kate Spade handbag. But there are times (like now) when your wallet can't support such extravagances. So what do you do? Think small. And cheap.

By think small (and cheap), I'm referring to those slight purchases that don't cut into your grocery money but still provide you with a good burst of joy. And I've found that these types of items can boost your personal style too. Here are my recommendations for quick style pick me ups that won’t ruin your budget:

Magazines – By far, this suggestion is my personal favorite. You get new information, fashion tips, and tons of other stuff for under $10. You gotta love that!

Sunglasses – Let me start by saying, this option doesn’t work if you stop at the designer counter and fork over $200. Why not try an affordable, fun pair from Target, Urban Outfitters, or Old Navy.

Beauty Products – A bottle of nail polish or a new lip-gloss shade can work wonders during a lackluster style phase. And if your have a few extra dollars to spare, you can add a pedicure or a facial for maximum beauty inspiration!

SHOPPING TIPS: CONSIDER THE COST PER WEAR?

You’re walking through the mall on a quest to find a particular item when you spot them. They’re shiny and beautiful. This scene is similar to the moment in the movies when the heavens open up and “the light” beams down. They are the most wonderful pair of shoes you’ve ever seen. And you want them on your feet. And after the haze wears off, reality reappears and you wearily ask yourself, “Can I afford to buy this?” Surprisingly, the answer just might be yes.

Let’s say the object of your affection (and I’m talking shoes here people, keep it clean) costs $300. That’s a lot of dinero. But if you think about how often you expect to wear the shoes, they may turn out to be an affordable investment.

If the shoes are well made, not too trendy, and fit nicely into your current wardrobe, you should be able to get a lot of wear out of them. And wearing them often translates into a cheaper overall price or cost per wear as it’s commonly referred to. That $300 deduction from your wallet becomes $5 per wear if you prance around in them 5 times a month or 60 times a year.

Things to remember when applying the cost per wear rule:

Quality is critical – You can’t extend the wear of an item if it’s poorly made.

Be real about your money – If buying the item leaves you short on something important like rent or your car payment, you can’t afford the item even if you literally live in it. (And you might have to live in it in the streets if you don’t take care of your basic necessities.)

Consider the item in question – Some things work well over time like jeans, shoes, handbags, or jackets and coats. Paying more for these pieces could easily translate into a small cost per wear calculation. Beware of trendy clothing or things that don’t fit your personal style. These items can kill your cost per wear ratio.

CREATING STYLE 5 MINUTES AT A TIME

Stop. Now look down at what you’re wearing. Need a “do-over”? Don’t worry, I completely understand. Some days you’re doing good just to make it to work on time. Relatively speaking of course.

If you didn’t take my advice from a previous post and determine your workweek attire on Sunday night to prevent the Monday morning scramble, don’t fret. Maybe you don’t have time on Sunday due to all of your lamenting about going to work the next day. Hey, I’ve been there too. There is another approach to consider.

If you find yourself sitting at your desk looking like you got dressed during a power outage, don’t panic. Take five minutes tonight and create a look for tomorrow. You can spare five minutes. Select a shirt and pant combo tonight. Don’t forget to consider the shoes. And just think, a little time dedicated to your work look tonight, can add a boost of confidence to your workspace tomorrow.

DEVELOPING "HOME STYLE"

I finally made it home!!! I survived a week week my family and not only did everyone live to tell about it, I managed to infuse some style in my very limited selection of travel clothes. I've never been so happy to see my entire closet! I had returned to "home style".

Peering into my stunted clothing space is inspiring to me because I know that anything I bring into it must work well with what I already own, because there really is no room for error. Having parameters, like limited closet space or large thighs (so I'm told), will make you very discriminating when selecting items to add to your wardrobe. And that's a good thing.

Take the time to evaluate what's in your closet. Are your clothes too big because you recently lost weight? Do you feel energized when you dress for work each day or frustrated? What does your closet say about your style? If you don't like your answers to the questions, it's probably time for a change. Take one step. Eliminate a few items that you haven't worn in the last year or two. If you're ready to take a bigger step, make a shopping plan of the clothing you would like to purchase to improve your look.

It's important to align the internal persona with the one that is being reflected through the external layers. To me, that's the true meaning of "home style".

PACKING - WHERE TO BEGIN

When people hear my packing strategy, they usually look at me like I’ve taken preparing for a 3-day trip and parlayed it into an Olympic sport. And in some ways, they’re right.

The foundation of my packing policy is derived from The Lucky Shopping Manual. The ladies from Lucky magazine recommend the following rules for packing – regardless of the length of your trip:

• Take the things you love to wear
• Bring wrinkle resistant clothing in dark colors and prints
• Select more thin items versus fewer bulky ones
• Consider how all of your items will work together
• And the one that hurts the most – only take 3 pairs of shoes (breathe ladies, breathe)

The “shoe rule” is the one that makes people run away screaming, “No, no, anything but that!” But shoes are typically the bulkiest things in your luggage. And if you can reduce the number you pack, you instantly increase the amount of space in your suitcase.

A great place to start when preparing for a trip is to determine what you need for the trip. Are you juggling business meetings for 3 days or sipping fruity drinks with umbrellas in them? Or will you be doing a little bit of both?

Once you determine what you need to be dressed for, you can make some selections. Start with the basic pieces like your favorite pants or jeans and a great jacket. After you pick the basics, add peripherals like t-shirts, tanks, and woven cotton shirts. And finally, don’t forget to select 3 to 4 pairs of shoes that will coordinate with the clothes you’ve packed.

Things to remember if you want to take one carry-on suitcase instead of two checked pieces:

• If you’re traveling for 5 days, you typically don’t need 5 pairs of pants. Take fewer basics and mix and match them with various shirts.
• It’s essential that you pack the minimal amount of shoes possible. You can’t get 5 pairs of shoes in a carry-on bag and expect to have room for your clothes too. (Remember, you have to leave room for other essentials like underwear.)
• Try on all of your outfit combinations before you pack them. There’s nothing worse than getting to your destination only to discover that your tan dress doesn’t look right with the only blazer you brought. Testing everything out before hand gives you time to work out the kinks pre-travel, which translates into less stress.

STILL ON THE ROAD....

I received some feedback that some of you haven't been able to post comments to my blog. I'm still traveling this week and I think the pre-scheduled posting may prevent you from leaving comments. Anyhoo, I should be back at home with regular blog posting and commenting on Friday, May 18th.

Thanks for the feedback! Have a stylishly wonderful day!!!