Packing Tips for the Ultimate Thanksgiving

The holidays are upon us and that means lots of travel. This can overwhelmingly painful for many since the joy of packing is right up there with moving. The experience is just on a much smaller scale, but it still stings if you can't get it right.

It does not have to be brain surgery, you just need to realize you DO NOT need to bring the kitchen sink. Thanksgiving may be somewhat of a fashion show to most, but nothing more then a carry is needed for 5 days of travel. I am very serious about this:)

Let's take it step by step. Shall we begin with the suitcase? A compact, cute, rolling carry on is your best bet. Stay away from black when it comes to any suitcase. Let this Diane Von Furstenberg $90 piece pop against everybody else's boring black. You will never lose your patterned, bright option again! This duffel style is also slightly smaller then your average carry on, but is extremely expandable and has many pockets to store things separately.

Since I am only allowing one suitcase per person, it is time to learn how to make the most of your small space. Roll it up. This method can easily double the amount that you get in your suitcase. It also saves you from wrinkled clothing!! Think about that, there are no folds so there are no creases when you take everything out. You will be able to stuff things in corners and spaces you never thought were useful. Do not waste any opportunity! Use your shoes to put socks and underwear in. Every space should be utilized.

Just in case you do come across a wrinkle or two, owning a mini steamer/iron is necessary. For $30 you can instantly look like everything just came from the dry cleaners. If you don't have time to pick one of these babies up, you can hang your wrinkled clothes in the bathroom with you when you shower. The steam helps to loosen up the creases, but nothing works like the portable steamer will.....

The other quick items that you should keep on hand are a sewing kit, double sided tape and a tide stick. Each of these can be a life saver when a wardrobe malfunction hits. The sewing kit will tighten up that loose button, the double sided tape will fix a ripped hem or possible low cleavage situation and the tide stick will get out the gravy. Three items that will save the day.

Now let's talk clothing. What do you actually roll up in your cute suitcase? Packing for a trip is all about great foundation pieces with a few pop items. Accessories are your friend and will change up the look and feel of every piece you bring. Start simple, think basic. This is a great example, a black dress will be useful from day to evening. We are not after skin tight clothing, after all, this holiday is all about eating! Empire waist or silhouette skimming styles are your best options. Empire is fitted just below your bust leaving your tummy the chance to expand. Silhouette skimming styles are comfortable, do not look like a potato sack and still leave room for LOTS of turkey.

Tights are a quick way to change up your black dress for different activities you may be attending. Bring a few pairs, you may not wear all of them, but these are reasonable options that can be stuffed into your suitcase anywhere. Choose patterns for extra funky and solids for simplicity.

For even more casual days during your holiday, plan on having 1 pair of jeans. Yes, I said one. A basic skinny style is all you are going to need if you follow all of my packing rules. They should be darker in color so they can go from day to night, lots of versatility. The skinny style is easily tucked in the boots you will also be bringing. More on that later... In addition to your jeans, choose 2 sweaters, one thinner and one super cozy and thick. The thicker one will be what you travel in. You always want to wear your bulkier items during travel leaving more room for other clothing in your suitcase.

The other choice for a bottom half is black leggings. This means that all of your layering pieces have to be slightly longer to cover your bum. If your leggings are thinner, add a pair of tights under them. You know you packed them!

Meagan Fox may look a bit sloppy, but she has her foundation pieces in order. Make sure to pack lots of different T shirts, tanks and long sleeve T's. These are the perfect backdrop for everything else you have brought!

Just like this picture and all before it, you better bring your best boots. You can bring up to 2 pairs. You are wearing one pair while you travel so you will pack the other one. People get crazy with shoes and keep throwing them in, but this is your worst enemy! They add weight and take up too much room. Aside from 2 pairs of boots, you may want to grab a pair of heels just for the dressier activities, but no more. Stop the shoe insanity!









Last up to really complete your holiday packing is accessories. These are what is going to make every foundation piece you have brought really become an outfit. Do not think that I have told you to pack super boring items! I have told you to pack super simple items that can styled fabulously different!!! Here come tons of scarves, hats and jewelry. You can really stuff as much as you want into your suitcase so this is where you have options when you get there. You never know how you are going to feel each day and maybe you want to switch it up at the last second, let your accessories do the switching. Buy a great traveling jewelry organizer that can be filled to the brim. Think everything. Necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings.... Scarves are also fun and can be stuffed into your shoes right along with your underwear and socks. Have fun with this category!

The finale to your holiday looks is going to be one fabulous medium sized neutral bag. This can mean anything to you! Pick a bag that is super versatile within your style and can be worn day to night. This Marc Jacobs bag is a perfect example of something that is sassy and realistic. It is your "one personal item". You can stuff it to the brim on the way to your holiday, and they use it as a cute purse any where you go while you are there. It is expandable and yet flattens out just as easily when there is nothing in it. Wonderful.

I think you should be ready to go now. Packing is just a nightmare until you buckle down and do it following the above rules. You need to stop worrying what you didn't bring and focus on what you are going to bring. With the right basics, you can build any look through accessories. And always remember, unless you are in the middle of no where, there is a store just around the corner.....

Alice and Olivia: Voted Best Pants

Pants might just be the enemy sometimes. They never seem to fit perfectly. Well have no fear, I have a designer that seems to hit the nail on the head every time.

Enter Alice and Olivia by Stacey Bendet. Almost all of my client's own at least one pair of these fabulous pants (including myself). She just really seems to understand a woman's curves, most notably, a woman's waist. Jelly roll is never pretty. You know, the part of your stomach that hangs over your pants. Not fun. That is the genius of the Alice and Olivia design. There is a thicker waist band at the top of the pants so they never cut into you. Please see the lovely example of these black wide leg pants. Divine.

Next up, skinny red pants. Do not be scared, I know these are not for everyone. You definitely have to be on the slender side, but curves are not rejected by this style. They still feature a wonderful wide waist band, but are much more modern in the silhouette. A cinched ankle is often a tough thing to pull off, but if your leg is on the straighter side, it can be your friend. Skinny pants are great because they can be worn with any size heel. Go from super flat to ridiculously high and they will always work! I love anything with millions of styling options:) Aside from the fun style, the color of these pants is a super pop to any look. Stop wearing dark colors on the bottom and switch it up. Who said you can't wear brights on the bottom and dark colors on the top? Try it!

Ah, leather bell bottoms. Who knew I would be suggesting these? They are the style of the season though, yes, bell bottoms are back. They are not for everyone, but if you have longer, skinnier legs, these are for you! It is very difficult to have a large flare at the bottom if you are not taller because the pants will just drag you down. They accentuate the lowest part of you, often shortening and certainly widening you. Not good. So if you are tall, have fun and go bold with a leather pair. It is never out and makes a fantastic statement when worn with any look.

So stop cursing out your pants and try on a pair of Alice and Olivia. They might just make you re-think your hatred.

Missoni for Target: On the Scene

It has arrived.... Missoni for Target. The only problem is that it is already gone. I wish I was kidding. As the picture shows, by 10:30am this morning, Missoni had left the building. I thought I was so good showing up just 2.5 hours after Target in Queens opened, but apparently it wasn't good enough. I was told that just a half hour after the doors opened, everything was basically gone.

The best part of all of this is that I convinced my friend Jackie to come out to my place and then we would drive to Queens. Well, the car didn't start. So we hopped on the train and off we went to a store full of nothing. Thank God I am friends with people that have a sense of humor because a fashion show I promised and a fashion show you shall get.






When I say there was nothing left, I really mean it. We had to go to the kid's section just to play. My friend Jackie is teeny tiny so this plan was not all that bad. Unfortunately, the clothing was a bit of a let down.....

There were some pieces that were classically Missoni and other's that well, just looked cheap. Obviously the quality is going to be of lesser value since we are at Target and not Barney's, but you never want to be the girl wearing cheap, imitation Missoni.

In her best pout face, Jackie shows us what CAN work from the line. Some cute, throw on pieces that can put some funk in any look. Exactly what Missoni is all about. When buying a less expensive version of the original, go with non-fitted items. Accessories and loose silhouettes don't show off that the fit might not be perfect.






Try out a hat and gloves for example. It is the perfect Missoni pop to any ensemble. You know I look good in this hat made for a 2 year old. In fact, this line at Target is perfect for a youngster. You don't need to be spending crazy prices for the "real" thing. Have the best dressed toddler in town.

I do love this adorable dress. Easy, comfortable, stylish. Obviously it is a bit short, but if Jackie shrank to the size of an 8 year old it would be perfect. If it was her size, throwing on a dark pair of tights and high brown riding boots with be the best additions. Add a structured jean jacket and you are on your way!





Being a good sport, Jackie went the full mile. Without me even asking, she decided it was good for the post to model ALL of the items, including lingerie. Right over her pants, Jackie shows off Missoni's effort at patterned panties. Honestly, I think they are great!

In my professional opinion, it was definitely worth the trip to Target. If and when another shipment comes in, I will certainly be first (or 100th) in line. It is always good to mix and match high and low end pieces. Just use your discerning eye carefully and recognize the difference between inexpensive and cheap. It is a very fine line and never needs to be crossed!

Fall Trends 2011

Fall 2011 is just around the corner and that can only mean one thing: It is time to reinvent yourself yet another time and make way for the best trends of the season! We all know that all trends are not made for all people. It is important to pick and choose what works best with your lifestyle and personality. Price points are just numbers and there are always less expensive options to fit any budget. You can be on-point this fall, stay within your financial range and look great re-branding yourself with successful style.

The female tuxedo is a trend that loves to come round and round and round….. It is sexy and sophisticated and makes any women, no matter what age or background, an instant power player with a vixen flare. Fit is key in any tailored piece such as a fabulous tuxedo. This Alexander McQueen piece at $2,240 is super pricey, but will live on forever. Purchase a cheaply made jacket or pair of pants and you will look exactly that, cheap. This does not mean you need to spend your entire piggy bank on a tuxedo. It just means that you either A) Need to pick either the jacket or pants to save a few dollars OR B) Opt for a middle of the road price point on the full deal and realize this is an investment. A great, tailored tuxedo will never go out of style and you can wear each piece over and over, styled many different ways. This is high on the "cost per wear" meter. Meaning, you are going to wear it for years to come so if you break down how much you spent on it vs. how much you will wear it, it is worth the price.

Designer's always tell me that they never look backwards, only forwards, but this next trend proves them very, very wrong. 60's Mod is back (yet again), so pull out all of those great items that have been hanging out for years. it is time to get the psychedelic party started and the first step is looking groovy. Alberta Ferretti's Fall 2011 certainly understands this. Mod essentially means lots of color, lots of graphic, bold prints and boxy silhouettes. You don't need to overwhelm yourself in this fall trend, just opting for one piece shows you are "in the know". The younger you are, the more you can brand yourself funky with this fun trend. If you are a more mature lady, choose a top or jewelry, nothing that will completely overwhelm you.

Kooky, mixed up prints are an easy way to get someone's attention when making a first impression, but make sure you manage this trend correctly. It is a fine line between crazy and stylish!Custo Barcelona, the designer of this dress, knows how to bring crazy and realistic together. If your personality is bold and vocal, then this is the perfect trend to represent your own personal brand through your wardrobe. Always remember your destination though, wearing an overwhelming print from head to toe at the office might be a bad idea. Leave the complete look for the weekend. But, choose a top or a belt to punch up your "work wardrobe" and be the talk of the office… in a stylish and positive way!

I love fur. I know this is a faux pas in many circles and I accept that I am not always PC (ask my friends!). Obviously there are many designers that side with me because the use of fur on beautiful clothing really isn't going anywhere. Burberry clearly loves fur and knows what to do with it, as this amazing sweater suggests. The newest trend for fall 2011 is fur on clothing. Not just as a jacket, vest or earmuffs, but actually worn as an "indoor" piece. It truly is a bit over the top, but heck, isn't that what great fashion is sometimes about? Now obviously this is a pretty expensive trend if you are not wearing faux fur. Don't "go for broke" if you can't afford it, just choose a very good faux fur as an alternative. It really can make your entire ensemble look incredibly cheap so please, I beg of you, be careful in your choice. If you question yourself at all, don't buy it. You always want to look expensive and put together no matter what. Successful style may be "faux" sometimes, but never cheap.

A trendy style that almost any gal can latch onto is the longer skirt which is very big for fall. The shorter you are the more difficult it is to wear, but as long as you keep any garment on your upper half ending at your waist, you should be fine. Proportions can be your worst enemy and your best friend. Keep any purchase flowing and fun, do not opt for stiff materials. This style is great for the girl who is a bohemian at heart. You can rock it at the office when styled appropriately and still feel like yourself. The best part is that it is universally awesome in that it can be worn any day of the week, work or weekend.

A trendy fall, a trendy (re-branded) you. Style represents who you are and who you want to be. What does your wardrobe say about you? When choosing your trendy fall 2011 pieces, always keep in mind what you want to project to the world. Clean out your closet and find current trends lurking in the depths of your wardrobe. Re-work them for this season. Purchase those great pieces that will advance your current wardrobe and style. Buy what you need. Use what you have.

Top 5 Trends for Spring

It may still be freezing outside, but it is time to start thinking warm! Well, at least warmer. Spring trends are starting to make their way to stops around town and it is time to choose your favorites. Every season there are a few pieces that always stand out, trends are what make the fashion world go ‘round. Knowing these trends and understanding what works best on you will constantly keep you ahead of the fashion curve. Here are the top five fabulous styles making their way down the runway for spring:

They say orange juice is good for you, well apparently so is the color. Bright, citrus shades are all the rage this spring. Out with the bland neutrals and in with fun, deliciously loud color! Aside from being vibrant and brightening anyone’s day that you may encounter, the look also allows you to never get lost in a crowd! High fashion, fabulous color, useful in large groups, the choice of orange really seems like a no-brainer. If you are overwhelmed by the shade or feel that it washes you out, choose accent pieces like a purse or jewelry to stay on trend.

This style of jeans loves to make a comeback. Much like John Travolta, just when you think they are officially over, here we go again…. High waisted and extremely tight through the thighs before flaring out to widths unknown, bell bottoms are not for everyone. It certainly explains why the trend lasts a few years and then mysteriously disappears, only to re-appear once designers have forgotten this fact again. There is a love for bell bottoms, but it is from ladies with slender, long legs. If you are lucky enough to be in this category, rock the look like it is 1975. They are fun and flirty and can instantly add a youthful feel to your look.

And yet another style that has made its way from the ‘70s into 2011, clogs. Apparently the time travel machine was large enough for a few pieces. Often looked at as an orthopedic option or service industry footwear, the clog has never fully gone away, it just wasn’t exactly “a trend”. Spring 2011 has changed all of that, clogs are in. High, low, bedazzled, studded, these shoes are out in a big way. One of the best parts of this particular trend is that they are quite simply one of the most comfortable options you can buy. Seeing as they are designed for people with bad feet or individuals that stand all day, you can bet that strutting your stuff in these babies will be pretty cozy. Looking hot and comfortable never felt so good.

Sexy and sophisticated are two words that deserve to go together and with the explosion of sheers this spring, they can. It is just the hint of skin that classy ladies all over the globe are looking to show off. No need to put it all out there, just the idea is enough to get hearts racing. Whether it is draped, flowing or taught, sheer materials give an element of sexy danger with a feminine touch to any look. Be wary of cheaper versions as they can lessen the value of your outfit. Tailoring is very important in any piece with sheer materials because it is so easy for them to fall incorrectly. So choose wisely and add sexy sophistication to any ensemble!

Jackie O made the trench coat uber-famous years ago with her easy, breezy style. Now in 2011, the coat has been revamped from its original glory. Don’t worry, the trench coat is not ever going to completely make an exit, it just has a new face. The trench dress is ready for spring! The classic ease of the coat makes altering this piece a simple and smart idea. The trench coat has always been a great option for any body type because of the body skimming style with cinched waist. Not too tight, not to loose and it accents your waist allowing your curves to shine. The trench dress will show off your shape in the same positive way making you spring ready for any day to evening event. Accessorize your look with big, bold bangles and you are officially on point this coming season.

Hemline Heaven

Hemlines are a tricky thing. Just an inch too short or an inch too long can completely throw off the proportions of your body. This is why including tailoring in the price of your garment is a necessity. Do not think of it as the aggravating extra $20 on top of what you already paid, think of it as what makes you look like a million bucks. I cannot stress the importance of a perfect hemline!

Example number 1: Wearing pants that are too short will actually shorten and widen your legs. I have heard of a lot of fads in my day, but fattening one’s legs has never been one of them. There is certainly such a thing as ankle length pants, but there is a huge difference between pants that are too short and a “style”. Be sure you and your tailor know the difference.

On a positive note, if your flare and wider leg pants are hemmed just above the floor, you can look long and lean. This means that there should be a slight break in the front and they should be as long as possible in the back without dragging on the floor. Longer pants equal longer legs. Remember, you cannot hem a pair of pants for both flats and heels, you must pick one or the other. The only time this is even possibly an option is with kitten heels (very, very small) to flats. Otherwise, it is time to make a decision ladies!

With a skinnier leg, you cannot go as long because your foot becomes suffocated. The added bonus of this style is that you can see some of your shoes! Those things are expensive and deserve a chance to shine! For the hemline on these, you should go as long as possible before the pant leg begins to stretch. This usually means about half way down your foot. Show off your shoes!

With skirts, hemlines can often be one’s ultimate demise. Sounds scary, but with just one inch, the garment can swallow your entire body and help to lose its shape. For most women, the safest length is just above the knee. This works on all heights, shapes and sizes. It keeps the body in a classic hourglass shape. Appearances can be everything and an inappropriate hemline can immediately ruin your look. Just play in the mirror for a second by folding up a longer hemline and see how quickly your entire shape can change! It is the cheapest miracle in town.

This length is only possible on the lucky, few women who are very tall and very skinny. If you are not within this range, this hemline will instantly make you look dowdy and old. Looking like a nun has never really been chic and I don’t personally see the trend making its way to the forefront of fashion any time soon. Truthfully, even for the tall, skinny women of the world, unless the skirt is an extreme pencil style, it truly isn’t that flattering. My vote, stay away!

And finally, the mini. So scary and so fun at the same time! There is a bit of an age limit on short skirts and pushing your hemline too high can give you instant cougar status. Not something this stylist is aiming to do! If you are in shape, you can really rock this look until about 35. Adding opaque tights and boots give it an even longer life because you are toning down your bottom half and covering up appropriately.

So, no matter who you are, where you live or what you do, find a fabulous tailor. One of my favorite taglines (yes, I have them) is that a tailor is like a good (cheap) surgeon. He or she can instantly give your wardrobe a boost without ever setting foot into a store!

Top Ten Fall Shoe Styles

Fall is by far my favorite season. 100 degree weather has finally subsided, the air feels crisp and something about life just seems calmer. Although all of these things really do put a smile on my face, let's just be honest, fall fashion is one of my reason's for living. It may sound a bit extreme, but the excitement of being able to layer on fabulous new trends is sometimes almost too much for me to take! And then there are the shoes......

So, as discussed this morning on Martha Stewart's Sirius radio channel, here are my top ten picks for the best shoe trends for fall:

Back again, for an encore presentation, the over-the-knee boot. Love them. They are incredibly sexy without the "I am trying really hard" connotation. Surprisingly, they are pretty acceptable for most age groups. Of course, you have to be in fairly good shape to pull these off if you are over 45. In addition, as you become "more mature", you should delete the heel. It just becomes a bit too over the top.

This particular pair by Dolce Vita is a great option. The cut out behind the knee is a superb design allowing for the boot not to get crunched and caught. Also, remember that neutrals can be more then just black or brown. Taupe is a fabulously fantastic choice!




Apparently over-the-knee just wasn't enough for designers, so along came the thigh high. This really takes a special kind of lady to pull this shoe off. People always want to know if it is "age appropriate", well this boot really should be put back on the shelf after 35..... Sorry! It is the ultimate in sexy, men are going to love you, footwear. Realistic no, fabulous yes. Christian Louboutin knew what he was doing when he pushed the envelope with this $2,375 pair. Meow!







Up next, brogues. I nearly fell over myself at fashion week chasing down a girl wearing these YSL shoes. For $1000, you better love them, but does it get any better then studded, patent leather lace-up brogues? I don't think so:) This menswear inspired look began last spring, but has really blown up for fall. Look modern, fun and trendy buy adding these to any outfit.



Just this past Friday I was working with a client and got stopped in my tracks by these Libby Edelman shoes. Granny chic is so in right now! It is rare that I purchase something when working with a client, but she knows me well enough and my fashion conscious would not have allowed me to leave the store without them. They were priced at $49 (holy cow!) and I got an additional 30% off leaving them at $34. I am really good. Without the leopard print and studded toe, these shoes could be just as doubty as you remember on granny. Libby Edelman (of Sam and Libby ballet flat designers of the 80's) added this punchy material making them uber modern and super fun.

I LOVE LOVE these Kelsi Dagger boots for $200. Ankle booties will not be going anywhere for a while, so invest now. They can be a tricky shoe if you have bigger calves, so choose a lighter color if this is an issue for you. You are always looking to elongate your legs and wearing a darker color will do the opposite by cutting you off at the ankle. This pair is fabulous because it is classic and simple, but adds in a fantastic architectural toe. This is a big look for fall and instantly ups the glamor quotient of any ensemble.



Military is back! I have fond memories of my Doc Marten's from high school and apparently I am so old that they are back again. Sad for my psyche, happy for my feet! This studded pair by Free People is pricey at $388, but really fun and interesting. The studding is not too over-powering to the boot meaning that they can be worn with multiple looks. Sometimes, when a shoe is too overwhelming, it loses it's ability to be worn regularly. Be ready to rock these boots with everything from dresses to skinny jeans. This is a fairly young shoe and should be limited to a "Forever 21" type of crowd. The great thing about them though is that even if you are not an alternative rocker, you too can pull this boot off. Have fun and go out of your comfort zone!


Don't worry if you can't wear the studded military boot anymore, you have another high heeled option! By toning down the sharp utilitarian feel and adding a heel, these boots become instantly more sophisticated. They are so much more accessible to every age and style. Try pairing them with a simple ensemble such as jeans and a blazer to add some trend and edge to your look. If you are really feeling fun, a simple, straight style dress is a great combination as well. Push yourself to try something new! You won't break the bank in these Guess boots for $150.


Ahhhh, riding boots. I loved them 3 years ago, I love them today and I will love them 3 years from now. These babies aren't going anywhere and I am thankful for that! They are so chic, so fantastic, so rugged. I instantly feel like I should head out to the Hampton's for a polo match when I put them on. I don't know a thing about polo (other then hot men seem to play it), but I sure do know how to dress for a match. The great thing about riding boots though, is that you don't have to be going to a polo game to wear them! Rock them in the city, rock them in the suburbs, rock them in the country! Throw on leggings and a longer sweater and you are ready for a casual stroll in the park. You really just can't go wrong with these boots no matter your age, social status or style.

One of my personal favorites for fall shoe trends is the funky sneaker. Realistic for function, realistic for style. These PF Flyers are just above what I would pay at $130, but will really kick your outfit up a notch! I walk around NYC for a living, so comfort and style must go hand in hand. These two concepts do not have to live separately. I refuse to wear sneakers unless one of two things is going on: 1. My back is killing me. 2. I am going to the gym. This allows me to be happy and comfortable at the same time. Yea for dressy sneakers.


Rounding out my top ten for fall is the platform pump. Just when you thought they couldn't get heels any higher, they did. The great thing about this trend though, is that the higher you make the platform, the flatter your foot actually is. Your foot is not technically painfully arched because you have balanced out the heel with a toe platform. Finally, designers have caught onto the fact that pain should not equal fashion!!!! These Brian Atwood Maniac pumps for $575 have been all the rage for a while now and have spread what some would consider an epidemic of platform heels across the nation. I am just happy it is an epidemic I can handle:)

So ladies, even if you purchase just one new pair of shoes this fall season make sure you will love them, cherish them and most of all, wear them. Enjoy!

HOT Summer Work Looks: Own the Right Pieces

Just because the temperature is up doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style! Let's face it, according to me, unless you are traveling through the insect infested backwoods of the country, you should never sacrifice style. Come down on me summer heat, I will fight back and do it in fashion.

The key to fighting this insane heat that is about to descend upon us is to layer on, layer off. Going to the office is much different then being IN the office. Why do they always put the thermometer at a lovely 50 degrees when it is pushing 100 outside??? Apparently the person paying the bill is not setting the temperature.....

Just as this look from J Crew is showing you, the most important thing in summertime is to look like you weren't trying too hard. It should be easy and breezy, just as your summer attitude is! Nothing too structured, nothing too overwhelming, the layers should almost always be able to go from daytime to nighttime. This lovely variable gives your summer wardrobe a lot more flexibility then any other season. Materials are light and breathable, meaning that any sort of lining might be stifling. Only suits should really present the possibility of having 2 layers to contend with.

The sheath dress is a fabulous option to play with during the next couple of months. You can easily layer items on during the warmer months and utilize it later in the year by layering under! I love versatility. A neutral color, such as this tan, allows you to truly play with it as a foundation piece and change it up completely depending on what you put with it. Change the belt, necklace, shoes, layering piece and bam, it is an entirely different outfit. The style works on most body types from straight to curvy, it really just depends on how you style it. Make it works ladies!

If you work at a location that requires you to wear a suit, don't fret. I can style you fabulous no matter what! Again, the most important factor is to keep it looking like you didn't try too hard. I know, I know, "How do I do that with a suit???" Easy. It is all about how you "wear" the suit and style it. Rolling up the sleeves is key. This automatically gives it a more laid back feeling. It becomes a bit more accessible rather then stiff and uninviting. Adding a blouse that is colorful and printed will help to brighten the overall look. Keeping the material loose and the shirt un-tucked may seem inappropriate, but remember ladies, you are wearing it under a suit! You are already so put together that wearing the undergarment in a more casual way will NOT throw off the entire ensemble. No one in the office will be staring you down for your inappropriate attire!

The final touch on any FAB ensemble is the jewelry! It is easy to buy, easy to style and a fairly inexpensive way to pump up any look, any season. For summer I always promote colorful stones. It pushes whatever outfit you have created into the playful, summer outfit you aspire to create! From necklaces to bracelets to earrings, adding a fun summer bauble is the final touch that your amazing outfit needs! Remember ladies, don't overdo it. A fantastic look really only needs one pop piece. Choose one great item and make it shine! Then, your whole outfit will be like a ray of sunshine.............

J Crew Leopard Skirt/Top/Cardigan
J Crew Sheath Dress: $158
Banana Republic Jacket:$150
Banana Republic Pants: $79
Ann Taylor Loft Necklace: $39.50

Over the Knee Boots: Can You Pull it Off???

Which one of these is not like the others? Come on, you can do it! You remember this little challenge from your grammar school days.... Let me give you a hint, two of these women should realize that although they are hot, this boot style is for a "less mature" woman. Sorry gals.

Rihanna hits the nail on the head by vamping up this cute and simple sweater dress. By pairing together these two pieces, she is keeping it sexy yet appropriate. She pulls in a very big trend right now, the over the knee boot, while keeping the look grounded.

And then there are the other two. Mariah Carey always causes my fashion brain to hurt. She just can't accept that curves can be beautiful when they are not completely being hugged by spandex material. Adding a pair of "hooker" boots only puts this already over-the-top look, more over-the-top. This outfit would be best worn by a 20 year old girl who is about to go out to the club. Not by an almost 40 year old woman in broad daylight. It is time to put away the spandex dear. You are a beautiful woman that does not need to have it all hanging out even if that is what you consider "your style". That is not a style, it is actually known as your late teens and 20's.... A time that is over:(

Now there is a bit more hope for J. Lo. I still think that she gets it right most of the time, but there are a few slip ups here and there. Mostly, she is now 40 and it is time for her to reflect that. Her thighs are more in shape then they have ever been, but unfortunately that does not mean that they should be wearing thigh high boots. I have been asked if there is a cut-off age for this trend and my simple answer is yes. Anyone over 35 probably should pack this possiblity up along with their spandex clothing. Hot or not, age appropriate clothing is a big plus in my book. THIS DOES NOT MEAN THAT YOU SHOULD NOT STILL BE SEXY. This just means that certain trends are not appropriate for you anymore.

For those of you that reflect Rihanna more than Mariah and J. Lo, here are two options for you. First we have the very pricey Christian Louboutins, totally hot, totally expensive. If you can pay this price, well then I am totally impressed and I want to be friends with you:) If not, you have a less expensive option that you can totally rock. Either way, this look will be here for a few seasons so it is worth investing in a pair. Choose high heels for a flashier version, but you can completely wear flat ones during the day with a longer sweater and leggings. Have fun, be sexy and remember that Julia Roberts in "Pretty Women" is not the only hooker who can wear hooker boots.

Photo courtesy of whosdatingwho.com
Christian Louboutin contente over the knee boots: $1995.00
Lucky Brand "Gwen" over the knee boots: $239.00