Welcoming Spring Into Your Wardrobe

Spring 2011 is upon us, yay!  Let the sunshine pour in the windows (on days the rain subsides).  Spring is a time of rebirth, reawakening and really bright, beautiful colors and styles.  Spring is beautiful in nature and in fashion.  Is your wardrobe spring ready?  If not, it's time to reinvigorate your closet.

Spring 2011 trends include, but are not limited to, caramel browns (especially for shoes), nudes (for every skintone), florals, lace, 70s inspired flavors, Bohemian updates, mini dresses, updated maxi dresses and tea length skirts.  Braids and beach-wave hair are definitely a do when styled accordingly for the occasion.  Small barrettes are the hot hair accessory of the moment.  Spring makeup is generally more sun-kissed and fresh, but bright eyeshadow is perfect for spring (and summer).   

While shopping for spring clothing and accessories, remember to have fun and be positive.  You are beautiful, and your body is unique to YOU.  You may try on several items that may not work for you, but you may also find several items that do!  So keep that last part in mind.  Please don't worry about the size tags.  Focus on clothing that fits, flatters and boosts your confidence.  The ultimate goal is to look and feel fabulous, not to worry about what size you wear.  We are usually our toughest critics, but show yourself some love.  You are amazing so your clothes should emphasize just that.  

And you have standards.  When trying on different pieces, remember to aim for only purchasing clothing that rates at least an 8.5 out of a 10 scale.  L-O-V-E each piece you buy; otherwise it may just sit in your closet taking up the very valuable boutique closet space.  

Speaking of closet space, how much clothing do you have stuffed in your closet that just doesn't fit quite right?  If you do not already have a tailor, I highly recommend hiring one- definitely worth the small investment.  Some dry-cleaners, clothing stores and tux rental shops have tailors on hand.  A tailor can help you transform an ill-fitting piece of clothing into a custom-like favorite, if there is enough material to do so.

Have a very happy and fabulous spring!  As always, please email me at cs.stylelife@yahoo.com with any questions, comments or to schedule an appointment with me.  Thank you.

Fearless Fashions

Fashion is a fabulous art form that serves to help us express ourselves. Following fashions is fun. But follow trends too closely and it can be expensive and risky considering that trends typically last for only one or two seasons until new trends are the focus.

Incorporating classic looks into each outfit helps to balance out the trendy pieces and keeps the trends grounded and everyday wearable. I recommend investing the majority of your wardrobe budget into your main staple wardrobe pieces. These main pieces should be the backbone of your style. Your accent pieces and any trendy pieces should be the less expensive pieces as you probably will not wear them as often as your staples.

In addition to evaluating the value and cost of trends, remember to evaluate how the trend looks on you. Is the trend flattering on you? How will you feel 1, 5 or 10 years from now when you look back on photos of you wearing this particular trend? Are you following this trend simply because you saw it on the runway or on a celebrity? Only wear what suits you and makes you feel and look fabulous. Don't let the clothes wear you.