STYLEnosh

HOW CAN I MAKE STYLENOSH MORE USEFUL TO YOU?

Happy New Year! With the start of any new year brings fresh perspective. And lately I've been thinking a lot about how to hit the refresh button on this very site. There's a ridiculous amount of content online these days. And I really want to add value to the bunch and not just a bunch of noise. (We have reality tv for that, right.) I've been writing this blog for almost 5 years. (The stylenosh anniversary is in like 3 weeks!) And I think it's time to upgrade not only the look and feel of the site but also what content is delivered to you. So I need your help.

Your Feedback is Greatly Appreciated

You can provide your feedback by answering a few short questions. Here's a link to the official survey. If that's not your thing, feel free to submit your answers via email at stylenosh@gmail.com. Or you can even leave your two cents in the comment section. The only thing I ask is that you give constructive feedback that will enable me to make this site better. I can't guarantee that I'll respond directly to every comment provided. But I will definitely consider all feedback when making changes or updates.

 

Here are some areas to consider when weighing in but feel free to talk about any aspect of Stylenosh you'd like to see improved.

TOPICS

 What fashion issues are you dealing with that you'd like to read about including:

• How to build a better wardrobe
• Store sales (e.g. 25% off at Macy's)
• Trends and how to wear them
• Style tips (e.g. pictures of outfits I'm wearing)
• Celebrity fashion (who wore what and how to duplicate the look)

Are you interested in reading about other topics like:

• How to make better food choices (e.g. smoothies, raw foods, light meals)
• Managing your money
• Maneuvering through your career

What other issues or problems would you like help solving?

 

FREQUENCY OF POSTS

Would you like to see at least five (5) posts per week?

Would you rather see 2-3 more detailed posts per week?

 

TYPES OF POSTS

Do you like to read longer posts that thoroughly cover the topic being discussed? Or do you like to read short blog posts?

Do you like "how-to" articles or informational ones?

What types of videos (if any) would you like to see?

Do you enjoy reading posts from other sites like the Today Show or Yahoo's Shine? 

 

MISC.

Are there any other suggestions you have regarding what you'd like to see on Stylenosh.com?

Please indicate your age.

•  Under 25
•  25 - 30
•  31 - 35
•  36 - 40
•  Over 40 

Thanks so much for your time and feedback! I'm looking forward to reading all of your suggestions and working hard to deliver them.

Let's make 2012 the best year yet!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE EVIL SIDE OF THE OFFICE DRESS CODE

Images: morguefile.com

It's your own fault that companies even have mandatory office dress codes. They know if they didn't have something explicitly written and recommended, half of you would show up in flip-flops and old, ratty jeans on a regular basis. So now we have wardrobe guidelines for work. And I understand their purpose. But sometimes these guidelines are just cruel. Honestly, is it really necessary to wear pantyhose to work in these modern times?  You'll typically find this antiquated rule at companies that are so conservative they think the sight of a woman's bare leg will render men unable to function  thus causing work productivity to suffer. 

But no woman should have to wear hosiery between the months of May - October.

It's oppressive. I'm certain that most men have no idea how hot pantyhose can be. The thought of wearing a pair actually makes my skin itch. So not comfortable.

But men have their own fight with the dress code too since some workplaces still require them to wear a shirt and tie. Every. Single. Day. Which in my book can be classified in the same category as pantyhose: Oppressive. If you're sitting in a cube all day without meeting clients, why do you need to wrap a tie around your neck? Just plain cruel.

So how do you get around the evil office dress code? This question is tricky territory. You don't want to lose your income over your wardrobe. But you don't really want to be sweltering everyday in order to eat either. I usually test the waters a little bit. If I see other people going sans pantyhose, I'll try it too. But if anyone takes the time to you remind you of the company rules, HR comes to mind, you might want to go back to nylon oppression. Hmm...entrepreneurship sounds real attractive right now. 

 

A WORD ABOUT FESTIVALS....

It's mid April so that means it's officially festival season. You know those events typically held in your favorite local park with the requisite overpriced, greasy food and way too many people. Fun times, right? Let me give a few tips so your experience will be enjoyable for you and the people around you.

1  Leave the heels at home.

You never know what to expect at these mega park events. But one thing you can count on is a lot of walking. More than likely, you'll have to park your car and walk a bit just to get to the park. So your feet will be crying long before you reach that giant smoked turkey leg stand. Wear comfy flats and save your feet the agony.

2  Are daisy dukes really back in style?

In a short one word answer, no. Unless you have the body to make the look work. Then you can wear whatever you like. But cut-off shorts with butt and thigh parts spilling out in all directions is not attractive ladies. No, men don't find you sexy. No, you're not successfully claiming your big and beautiful body and making a statement. Yes, you are making a mockery of yourself. I know it's the weekend and you want to let it all to hang out but can you please hold some of it in? Please.

3  You can skip the funnel cake.  

You know you're old when you think the funnel cake will only cost $3. For those over 30, things have changed. Those fatty, sugary treats are $7 or more now. I can hear wallets wrenching in pain. The food smells delicious- that's how they draw you in. But instead of going into debt over festival food, just walk around park and enjoy the time with your friends. Then when you're ready to eat, go to a restaurant nearby for some real food without the crazy price gauging.

Enjoy the sunshine! 

 

Image: tripsmarter.com

HOW ARE YOU PLANNING TO SPEND YOUR TAX REFUND?

It's April 15th and that means your taxes are due. Well, not exactly. Because of an obsure D.C. holiday known as Emanicaption Day, your taxes are actually due on Monday, April 18th this year. But many of you (overachievers?) have already filed and are eagerly anticipating your refund.

So, what are you going to do with the money?

I keep envisioning handbags, shoes, and maybe a new suit magically finding their way into my closet. But I won't succumb to this mesmerizing temptation. Instead I'll be responsible and pay some bills. Well, not before buying at least one fun thing. Think of it as the 80/20 rule for tax refunds. My theory is that you take 80% of the refund and pay debt or store it in savings. And the other 20% can be used for a little wardrobe upgrade or a big concert or some other item that you want but wouldn't normally buy.

How are you going to spend your 20%?

Note: If you owe the IRS this year, disregard the aforementioned idea. I can practically hear you telling me to take my 80/20 rule and shove it. But still feel free to comment anyway.

 

 

Image: Morguefile.com loose change by darrenhester.

MUST READ: STYLE (& LIFE) INSPIRATION TO LIVE BY

For every woman still searching for her own signature style or in the middle of a style reintervention, this article by Refinery29 is like a jolt of fashion juice for a barely breathing wardrobe. This slideshow, titled The New 40, provides personal style insight from four women in their very fashionable 40s. But the information is perfectly relevant for the young 20-something crowd to the young 35+ too. Besides, it's never too early (or too late) to plan your beauty/fashion strategy.

Image: morguefile.com

WARNING: WINTER FEET AND SPRING SANDALS DO NOT MIX!

It's the middle of March and most of us, outside of the usual hot spots (Florida, Southern Cali, Arizona), are not expecting the thermometer to tip close to 80. Well someone forgot to tell Mother Nature because several cities will be 20 degrees warmer than their average temps for this time of year. (If you want the deets on the weather click here.) The warmth is awesome after a long, snowy winter. But this crazy warming trend can cause us to lose all rational thinking and go hog wild with our wardrobe choices. And the number one mistake people make when the weather gets warms is displaying their haggard, winter-worn feet before they're ready.

I'm talking about sandals, open-toe shoes, and slingback pumps. I know you're itching to break out a pair of your super cute sandals or open-toe lovelies this weekend. It's a welcome change from the boots you've been stuck in for months. And it can be just the boost your wardrobe needs to gear up for spring.

However, please don't wear any shoes exposing your feet if your feet still look like the dead of winter.

You know what I'm talking about. Your toe nails haven't been polished and/or clipped since November. Your heels are still sporting that winter protective layer of ash on them. If any of this sounds familiar, no sandals for you! (Which is why I won't be wearing any shoes with my heels showing. They're so not ready.) Now, if you have time to get a pedi or do it yourself, proceed with whatever shoe choice you like. Enjoy!

CREATIVE WAYS TO HELP JAPAN DISASTER RELIEF

We've all been fixated on the devastation that has occurred in Japan following last week's earthquake and tsunami. And if you're still looking for a way to give support (cause that's what citizens of the world do), consider these options as a way to donate.

Purchase

This beautiful red and white wristband comes from the Lady Gaga official store. Joining the Little Monster fan club is not a requirement for purchase.

The message is simple and poignant: We pray for Japan. Spelled out in English and Japanese. It sells for $5 with all proceeds going toward relief efforts in Japan.

Note: You can order the wristband now and it will ship around March 25th.

 

Image: ladygaga.shop.bravadousa.com

Check Local Deal Sites

Those local discount sites are not only good for sending you 60% off deals for your favorite restaurant. You can also look for sites like Living Social and Groupon to provide ways to donate to a worthy cause too. When you visit Living Social, there's a link to donate to the Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Relief. You can make a one-time gift or set-up a monthly recurring one. 

 

Don't Forget Social Media

Twitter and Facebook pretty much keep us plugged in to everything going on in the world. So it's no surprise that both social giants play a big role in times of disaster too. Even if you don't tweet, you can search for current topics on Twitter. The site becomes your own personal up to the second search engine, allowing you to easily follow donation information and updates concerning Japan.

And there are several  relief pages dedicated to Japan on Facebook. A quick search will lead you to people around the world coming together over this tragedy like this group titled, Pray for Japan Earthquake and tsunami relief.

 

For more potential ways you can donate, visit the Refinery 29 disaster relief link. 

 

GOT PLENTY? DONATE AT LEAST 1 THING IN THE NEXT WEEK!

Image: Simon Howden/FreeDigitalPhotos.net  

Recently, I wrote a typical post on Valentine's Day gifts. A day later, I received this comment from los angeles donation:

"Great content! Perfect idea for Valentine's Day Gift. But take a look for people in need. We can give or donate anything to make them happy this Valentine's Day."

And I responded with:

"Thank you los angeles automobile donation!!! You are right. I'm sure there are plenty of things we can donate to those in need. Thank you for the reminder!"

The nudge from los angeles donation to be more considerate of other people's needs got me thinking. Most of us have plenty of clothes, shoes, electronics, etc. And how much of that do we really need?

Today marks the official start of Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week. This week-long celebration of fashion, art, showmanship, and beauty conjures inspiration and creativity in many us. Maybe it can motivate us to give too.

What can you do?

Here's my simple request: Take at least one item from your closet and donate it to a charitable organization like Dress for Success, Salvation Army, Goodwill, or St. Vincent de Paul. I'm not requesting that you give some old, misshaped sweater you can only wear around the house. Donate a fabulous designer jacket or maybe a fantastic pair of shoes. Or give cash or a bigger donation, like a car, if you're in a position to do so.

Provide something that you know will be useful to someone else.

And then, spread the word. Because giving is really the true display of human beauty.

 

If you enjoyed or deplored this riveting point of view, please click the green Share This link below to Retweet, Like, Email, Digg, etc, etc. And feel free to leave your praise or gripe below. Thanks! Remember, sharing is caring.

IT ALL BEGAN 4 YEARS AGO...

In January 2007, a dear friend gave me a deadline for my blog to be up and running. She said it must be presented to world by the end of the month. On the last day of the month, this site was born. And four years later, it's still kicking! Woo-hoo!

Image: Morguefile.com

You may not believe this (unless you have a blog of your own) but, writing a blog is a challenging endeavor. And like with most challenges, it's simultaneously rewarding. And the rewarding part flows from the people who actually read this thing. So thank you for checking your RSS feed, email, or simply bookmarking this blog. There's an infinite source of things to devour online and I appreciate you dropping by my little corner of the web.

So what's next? (There's always something next, right?) I think a blog redesign is imminent. I've changed the look periodically but now it's time to move to something a little more permanent. And there are a few other changes planned so keep reading, commenting, and letting us know what's on your fashion plate. Okay, that was a wee bit cheesy. Even for me. So, just share what's on your mind. Capisce?

Many thanks to all of you!!!

STYLEnosh

NEW DECADE, FOCUS, AND BASICALLY ALL NEW EVERYTHING

Hello, world! Happy New Year to you!!

Yes, I'm still alive. And actually kicking. I made it through the holidays. (Thank you God because my car successfully died after the 800 mile roadtrip.) And now it's time to get to work. On my wardrobe. Oh, and of course on actual work.

Have you ever been going through life with a particular formula for something, like getting dressed, and one day you realize that it no longer works for the person you need to become or life you wish to live? (Why can I suddenly hear a soap opera voice over asking that last question?) Well that's where I landed recently. The last few months I've been engrossed with moving to Atlanta (yes, again) and expanding some new business ideas including what direction to take this blog. In the middle of the process, I became keenly aware that I need to approach everything from a new perspective. Especially my wardrobe. So, here we are with the fresh slate of the new year. Sweet! 

It's the perfect time for reinvention.

 Normally the first week of the new year would prompt a few "clean out your closet" and "it's time to update your wardrobe" posts from this site. This year I'm thinking bigger. For me and for you. (See, I'm always considering you even when you don't know it.) Maybe our lives require more serious changes than a new pair of jeans and another blazer. We might just need a whole freaking new wardrobe! And possibly a new way to approach life in general.

So let's begin. I'm going to be asking you questions and probing your brain, because I love to hear how people think. And I get absolutely giddy over planting a new seed inside of that thinking. Today I want you to look down and really look at what you see. The question is simple: does what you're wearing today provide an accurate representation of who you are? And if you're in a sharing mood, leave a comment here or on Facebook or Twitter telling us what you see and why it's right or terribly wrong. If asking the question makes you groan, feel free to share your gripes too. (Warning: I have a cure for that.)

IS GREEN FASHION WORTH THE FUSS?

Happy 40th birthday Earth Day!

Okay, guilty as charged. I'm a tree hugger. I care about waste and consumption. I carry my own bags when I shop, whether I'm at the grocery store or the mall. I recycle old clothing throughout the year at my local thrift stores. Overall I think I'm pretty decent when it comes to being eco-conscious. But the one area I haven't focused any energy too is eco fashion.

In theory, I'm all for green or ethical fashion. But I can't say that I actually seek it out when I'm ready to spend my money on clothes. This earth day, I'm wondering why that is. I can't be the only one. Maybe we steer clear of ethical fashion because we don't know what it means and honestly, it just sounds a little too granola for fashionistas, right?

Maybe it's time to take a fresh look at eco fashion. Let's find out if green fashion is really worth fuss.

A Closer Look

First, check out Global Action Through Fashion for a wonderfully straight-forward definition of the term ethical fashion. It sounds reasonable to me. We're becoming more aware of what we put in the body. Shouldn't we apply that consciousness to what we put on it? So where can you find these world changing frocks without blowing an entire paycheck?

A quick search led me to numerous eco-friendly sites that focus on sustainable clothing. I perused The Alternative Consumer first. If you're not interested in sussing out new eco based lines on your own, visit The Alternative Consumer blog and they'll introduce you to upcoming clothing, shoe, and accessory designers. This site led me to Stewart+Brown. I love these clothes! This ethical fashion line duo officially has my attention. Here are a few offerings from their collection but I say, take a break and see all of it. I'm enamored with its simplicity and femininity. If I was wearing one of these dresses, I would feel responsible and pretty.
 

Images: stewart+brown.com

Conclusion

I think this concept of green fashion is starting to sink into my brain. If you care about how your clothes are produced, how the workers who made them are treated, and whether or not your lovely new dress is a carrier of harsh chemicals, you might want to start paying more attention to what you wear. And when that happens, we'll start to see more ethical fashion options in our boutiques, stores, and malls.

Flower image: morguefile.com

GET YOUR MAGAZINES ONLINE INSTEAD OF IN THE MAIL

This ideas has me so excited, I can barely concentrate on work! I knew you could get magazines digitally instead of the traditional printed versions but I didn't know the selection was this vast! I've been perusing Zinio, who appears to be the prominent digital magazine provider. And boy, is it cool. You can buy a magazine subscription in some cases for less than $8 or you can buy a single issue. Magazines not your thing. Zinio has books too.

The process is pretty simple. You create a new account. Then you download the Zinio reader- all for free of course. And then you're ready to rock! You can read your selections on the reader, online, or on your iPhone. There are hundreds of magazines to choose in all of the major categories including business, home & garden, health & fitness, and of course, fashion & style.

I will continue to receive the hard copies of my favorite mags like Lucky and Marie Claire. But now I can expand my magazine collection without killing any trees. And that's pretty sweet.