Now that my kids are back in school, I had a little bit of free time to go to the stores that I really wanted to visit. Stores other than Target, the grocery store, etc. I have to say it was a lot of fun, but I had to ask myself...Is now a good time to shop?
Even though the kids are back in school, it's still summer according to the calendar. Labor Day is still a week away, and the weather is gorgeous!!! Who wants to even think of wearing fall clothes, let along trying them on in stores.
So, what do you buy? Fall merchandise or clearance summer merchandise or do you try to find an item that you could wear multiple seasons?
So as I visited these clothing stores, the first thing I noticed was the temperature. It was freezing in the stores. Of course, it was a good ploy by the stores. They purposely keep the temperatures down so shoppers are more willing to try on fall clothing. Putting on that merchandise makes shoppers fell comfy and cozy. It's completely psychological but brilliant!
And most of the merchandise in the stores are fall merchandise, full price fall merchandise. A small percentage of the merchandise is clearance summer items. And you know I love a deal, but there were slim pickings!! Yes, there were a few good deals, but you really had to look and search far and wide. I did find a black Juicy Couture dress that was originally $138 marked down to $29 and another black dress from Oonagh by Nanette Lepore that was $200 marked down to $39. Now, I bought both dresses but will only keep one of them. I really like trying them on at home in good lighting and with dual mirrors. And I know what you are thinking, another black dress! My husband would definitely say that, but it's a casual fashionable dress that I can wear when I freelance for Macy's. They require their employees to wear all black on the selling floor, even if you freelance for them. Anyway, I really like the one from Oonagh! That's the one I am going to keep.
Anyway, let's keep back to the question...is now a good time to shop? What do you think?
Enjoy your day!
Lynn
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Fall Shoe Trends!!
Today was the first day of school for my kids, which means freedom for me, but it also means fall is right around the corner. Honestly, I really wasn't ready for summer to be over. I'm in complete denial! However, it also means that the fall fashions are upon us, especially shoes...or should I say most importantly SHOES!!!
I am loving all the different shoe trends for this fall. The styles, textures, and colors are to die for!!! There are just too many to choose from!
First let's talk about style. You've got platform stilettos, peep-toe stacked heels, high heeled loafers, embellished heels, bow tie ballerina flats, platform peep-toe booties, and menswear inspired Brogues (those would be lace up wingtip flats). I haven't even gotten to the boots, yet. But let's save that for another day.
How about texture and fabric! Well, just to name a few...plush fabrics, velvet, suede, supple leathers, tassels, wood, embossed leather, patent leather, calf hair, satin, grosgrain, beads, mesh, python, chains, jewels, metallic, studs, wool, Swarowski crystals, rhinestones and silk. As you can see by that list, anything goes!!!!
Now for the hot fall color trends for shoes! All colors are in. You've got red, burgundy, Sapphire blue, gold, metallic, black, Bordeaux, purple, bright green, hot pink, silver, nude and gold. I really can't believe all of the different color shoes available this fall. You will not be disappointed.
So, as I sit here writing this blog in my slippers (I was wearing black patent leather flip flops today), I wonder what type of shoes I will purchase this fall. And now that the kids are back at school, I will have time to shop (and I'm not talking about Target or the grocery store either).
Enjoy your day!
Lynn
I am loving all the different shoe trends for this fall. The styles, textures, and colors are to die for!!! There are just too many to choose from!
First let's talk about style. You've got platform stilettos, peep-toe stacked heels, high heeled loafers, embellished heels, bow tie ballerina flats, platform peep-toe booties, and menswear inspired Brogues (those would be lace up wingtip flats). I haven't even gotten to the boots, yet. But let's save that for another day.
How about texture and fabric! Well, just to name a few...plush fabrics, velvet, suede, supple leathers, tassels, wood, embossed leather, patent leather, calf hair, satin, grosgrain, beads, mesh, python, chains, jewels, metallic, studs, wool, Swarowski crystals, rhinestones and silk. As you can see by that list, anything goes!!!!
Now for the hot fall color trends for shoes! All colors are in. You've got red, burgundy, Sapphire blue, gold, metallic, black, Bordeaux, purple, bright green, hot pink, silver, nude and gold. I really can't believe all of the different color shoes available this fall. You will not be disappointed.
So, as I sit here writing this blog in my slippers (I was wearing black patent leather flip flops today), I wonder what type of shoes I will purchase this fall. And now that the kids are back at school, I will have time to shop (and I'm not talking about Target or the grocery store either).
Enjoy your day!
Lynn
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Macy's Glamorama 2011
I was hired last week to work on Macy's Glamorama Show. It's a show that fuses music and fashion and is held at the Chicago Theater. The post-party is held at the Macy's on State St., Chicago, on the 7th floor. This event benefits the Ronald McDonald Children's Charities.
I have worked on this show since it started as Marshall Field's Fash Bash way back when. And I have worked with the same freelance fashion stylists every year, which is always a joy as they are my close friends.
The theme of this year's show was Artrageous. The headliner was Cee Lo Green with a performance by Far East Movement. The fall fashions were from Sonia Rykiel, John Paul Gaultier, Armani, Bar III, Kenneth Cole, Karl Lagerfeld Capsule, Marc Jacobs, Tracy Reese, and Papi (which is men's colorful underwear...yes, male models in very small, very colorful, very tight undies).
The fashions were amazing this show. I absolutely loved the platform shoes from Sonia Rykiel. What fun! And I loved the ladylike looks of Tracy Reese. So chic! The male models looked great in their Kenneth Cole outfits with their pants tucked in their Wellies!! How cute! And Marc Jacobs, as you can imagine, was so much fun!! I liked his looks more than I thought I would.
The other stylists and I were lucky enough to attend the post-party, which is a blast. And it's also a great people watching place. WOW!! People were wearing everything under the sun. You saw major gowns to shorts and jeans. Crazy! Below are a few photos from the party. The first photo is my husband and I. The other one is Robin Overman (freelance fashion stylist and antique specialist, who worked on the show), me, Amy Olson (former Fashion Office Coordinator at Marshall Field's and currently a fashion show producer-she's the best), and Tangee Harris Pritchett (freelance fashion stylist and a fabulous handbag designer...check out her website at tangeeinc.net, who also worked on the show).
It was a fun event to work on but very exhausting. I'm pooped!!!
Enjoy your day!!
Lynn
I have worked on this show since it started as Marshall Field's Fash Bash way back when. And I have worked with the same freelance fashion stylists every year, which is always a joy as they are my close friends.
The theme of this year's show was Artrageous. The headliner was Cee Lo Green with a performance by Far East Movement. The fall fashions were from Sonia Rykiel, John Paul Gaultier, Armani, Bar III, Kenneth Cole, Karl Lagerfeld Capsule, Marc Jacobs, Tracy Reese, and Papi (which is men's colorful underwear...yes, male models in very small, very colorful, very tight undies).
The fashions were amazing this show. I absolutely loved the platform shoes from Sonia Rykiel. What fun! And I loved the ladylike looks of Tracy Reese. So chic! The male models looked great in their Kenneth Cole outfits with their pants tucked in their Wellies!! How cute! And Marc Jacobs, as you can imagine, was so much fun!! I liked his looks more than I thought I would.
The other stylists and I were lucky enough to attend the post-party, which is a blast. And it's also a great people watching place. WOW!! People were wearing everything under the sun. You saw major gowns to shorts and jeans. Crazy! Below are a few photos from the party. The first photo is my husband and I. The other one is Robin Overman (freelance fashion stylist and antique specialist, who worked on the show), me, Amy Olson (former Fashion Office Coordinator at Marshall Field's and currently a fashion show producer-she's the best), and Tangee Harris Pritchett (freelance fashion stylist and a fabulous handbag designer...check out her website at tangeeinc.net, who also worked on the show).
It was a fun event to work on but very exhausting. I'm pooped!!!
Enjoy your day!!
Lynn
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Fall Jean Trends
Jeans, Jeans and More Jeans!!! That's the motto this fall season. The jeans this season are coming in every size, shape, color and style that you can think of. Everybody, and I mean everybody, will be able to find at least one pair of jeans they will love.
How about those hot jean trends this fall. The first being color, all sorts of color. From brick red, purple, chocolate brown, burgundy, mustard, and olive.
These colored jeans are available in skinny, bootcut and flare with prices starting at $22 all the way up to $275. It's a great way to liven up your outfit and be a little bold, too.
Another trend this season is the coated jean. These jeans add a little shine and shimmer to your basic jean. They have the look of leather but are actually made of cotton and spandex. Instead of accessorizing with Metallics, wear one of these jeans to add life to your look.
The trouser jean is still very in this fall. Yes, they look like the jeans from the '80's but a little bit more updated. They are available in dark denim and faded denim, but I would go for the darker denim. They are more flattering. And, again, they range is price from $36 to $211. So, if you aren't quite sure about them, by a cheaper pair. That way you don't feel too guilty if you don't like them next year.
And lastly, it's all about zippers. This fall the hardware of choice on jeans is zippers. Zippers on the pockets. Zippers on the bottom of the jeans. Zippers up along the back of the jean leg. And zippers up the side of the jeans. Most of these jeans have the skinny leg so be careful. Not everyone can wear this style.
So, what jean trend will you try this fall season? For me, I'm not quite sure. I guess it all depends on how much I want to spend and most importantly, what trend will look good on me.
Enjoy your day!
Lynn
How about those hot jean trends this fall. The first being color, all sorts of color. From brick red, purple, chocolate brown, burgundy, mustard, and olive.
These colored jeans are available in skinny, bootcut and flare with prices starting at $22 all the way up to $275. It's a great way to liven up your outfit and be a little bold, too.
Another trend this season is the coated jean. These jeans add a little shine and shimmer to your basic jean. They have the look of leather but are actually made of cotton and spandex. Instead of accessorizing with Metallics, wear one of these jeans to add life to your look.
The trouser jean is still very in this fall. Yes, they look like the jeans from the '80's but a little bit more updated. They are available in dark denim and faded denim, but I would go for the darker denim. They are more flattering. And, again, they range is price from $36 to $211. So, if you aren't quite sure about them, by a cheaper pair. That way you don't feel too guilty if you don't like them next year.
And lastly, it's all about zippers. This fall the hardware of choice on jeans is zippers. Zippers on the pockets. Zippers on the bottom of the jeans. Zippers up along the back of the jean leg. And zippers up the side of the jeans. Most of these jeans have the skinny leg so be careful. Not everyone can wear this style.
So, what jean trend will you try this fall season? For me, I'm not quite sure. I guess it all depends on how much I want to spend and most importantly, what trend will look good on me.
Enjoy your day!
Lynn
Monday, August 8, 2011
Swimsuits or Jeans...Which is Worse to Try On?
I was at the pool the other day talking to some moms, and we were talking about trying on clothes. So I asked them...which is worse to try on? Swimsuits or jeans? What do you think?
Right now...at my age...this summer...I personally feel that swimsuits are definitely worse to try on. Five years ago, it was jeans. Let me explain.
Five years ago, I really had a lot of luck finding swimsuits. It was great! Most of the suits that I tried on fit well. They didn't ride up, the didn't reveal too much, and they had a lot of support. I was so pleased. Now I know what you are thinking...yes, I was younger and yes, my body has changed since then. But I did the "Jackie O" thought process...find something that fits well and buy it in multiple colors! She did that with sheath dresses.
Moving on...five years ago, I really had a hard time finding jeans. They were way too long and way too low in the rise. Think Brittany Spears!! I couldn't find any jeans that fit me. It was terrible, and I felt miserable.
Now to the present...this summer was the first time I bought a new swimsuit in five years. I couldn't find anything that fit well or looked good on me. It was very depressing. I was still wearing those original suits that I had bought five years ago. During those years, I must have tried on at least 100 swimsuits. No kidding!! Not fun at all!! I was so glad that this summer I was able to buy two suits, a one piece and a tankini. Success!!! At last!!!!
As for jeans, well that has gotten a lot easier. Shopping for jeans is actually not so bad any more. I found some jeans that are petite or ankle length (that don't look too matronly), and that have a normal rise. Good-bye to the Brittany Spears low rise!!! Yippee!!! And my favorite jeans are the dark denim bootcuts. But I'll talk about jeans and the new jean trends and styles another day.
So, don't forget about the question...Swimsuits or jeans, which one is worse to try on??
Enjoy your day!
Lynn
Right now...at my age...this summer...I personally feel that swimsuits are definitely worse to try on. Five years ago, it was jeans. Let me explain.
Five years ago, I really had a lot of luck finding swimsuits. It was great! Most of the suits that I tried on fit well. They didn't ride up, the didn't reveal too much, and they had a lot of support. I was so pleased. Now I know what you are thinking...yes, I was younger and yes, my body has changed since then. But I did the "Jackie O" thought process...find something that fits well and buy it in multiple colors! She did that with sheath dresses.
Moving on...five years ago, I really had a hard time finding jeans. They were way too long and way too low in the rise. Think Brittany Spears!! I couldn't find any jeans that fit me. It was terrible, and I felt miserable.
Now to the present...this summer was the first time I bought a new swimsuit in five years. I couldn't find anything that fit well or looked good on me. It was very depressing. I was still wearing those original suits that I had bought five years ago. During those years, I must have tried on at least 100 swimsuits. No kidding!! Not fun at all!! I was so glad that this summer I was able to buy two suits, a one piece and a tankini. Success!!! At last!!!!
As for jeans, well that has gotten a lot easier. Shopping for jeans is actually not so bad any more. I found some jeans that are petite or ankle length (that don't look too matronly), and that have a normal rise. Good-bye to the Brittany Spears low rise!!! Yippee!!! And my favorite jeans are the dark denim bootcuts. But I'll talk about jeans and the new jean trends and styles another day.
So, don't forget about the question...Swimsuits or jeans, which one is worse to try on??
Enjoy your day!
Lynn
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Animal Prints!
Beware of Animals! Animal prints, that is!
It seems that every fall season when the fashion trends emerge, animal prints come out of hiding. Year after year, they always show up in one way, shape or form. Some are classic and never go out of style. And some, thank goodness, go to the wayside or get an updated look.
Now, when you wear the animal print trend, be cautious and careful. Remember...less is more! Please don't overdo it. You don't want to be mistaken for a lady of the evening. You don't want to go overboard. Wearing one key piece like a blouse or a coat is always appropriate. Wear that blouse with a pair of dark denim jeans or that coat over a solid black dress.
Express has a cute animal print 3/4 length sleeve blouse that looks great with jeans. Vince Camuto, which no longer is doing just shoes, is debuting a sleeveless pleated animal print dress. It's so sophisticated looking with a softer print that you have to look very closely to tell that it is an actual animal print.
And you must not over-accessorize!! You do not want to wear an animal print belt, hat, shoes, scarf, and bracelet all at once. That would be overkill! No pun intended! Look at yourself in the mirror and analyze yourself. Just one or two will do.
Ann Taylor has come out with a "Weekend Crossbody" animal print bag that has a gold chain strap. Very chic! And the brand, Me Too, has these cute "Lysette" animal print ballet flats which look great with skinny jeans or a short full skirt. And for the person who is a little tentative to try this animal print trend, how about the Vince Camuto animal print and gold cuff bracelet. Baby steps, right?!
So, I guess you are wondering what I have in my closet that is animal print. I have a wide bangle bracelet and three pair of animal print shoes. One is a low wood heel peep toe flat that I got at Target, probably 4 years ago. Another one is a Stuart Weitzman velvet animal print pointed toe flat, which I got for only $36 last year. And the last one is a Cole Haan pointed toe high heel stiletto. That one I bought for a mere $29. Come on...you know that I am a bargain shopper and don't pay full price (unlike my husband).
Hmmm...maybe this fall season, I will add a thin animal print belt to my wardrobe. Considering 50% of my closet is black clothing, that should be a nice added touch. Remember...Baby Steps!
Enjoy your day!
Lynn
It seems that every fall season when the fashion trends emerge, animal prints come out of hiding. Year after year, they always show up in one way, shape or form. Some are classic and never go out of style. And some, thank goodness, go to the wayside or get an updated look.
Now, when you wear the animal print trend, be cautious and careful. Remember...less is more! Please don't overdo it. You don't want to be mistaken for a lady of the evening. You don't want to go overboard. Wearing one key piece like a blouse or a coat is always appropriate. Wear that blouse with a pair of dark denim jeans or that coat over a solid black dress.
Express has a cute animal print 3/4 length sleeve blouse that looks great with jeans. Vince Camuto, which no longer is doing just shoes, is debuting a sleeveless pleated animal print dress. It's so sophisticated looking with a softer print that you have to look very closely to tell that it is an actual animal print.
And you must not over-accessorize!! You do not want to wear an animal print belt, hat, shoes, scarf, and bracelet all at once. That would be overkill! No pun intended! Look at yourself in the mirror and analyze yourself. Just one or two will do.
Ann Taylor has come out with a "Weekend Crossbody" animal print bag that has a gold chain strap. Very chic! And the brand, Me Too, has these cute "Lysette" animal print ballet flats which look great with skinny jeans or a short full skirt. And for the person who is a little tentative to try this animal print trend, how about the Vince Camuto animal print and gold cuff bracelet. Baby steps, right?!
So, I guess you are wondering what I have in my closet that is animal print. I have a wide bangle bracelet and three pair of animal print shoes. One is a low wood heel peep toe flat that I got at Target, probably 4 years ago. Another one is a Stuart Weitzman velvet animal print pointed toe flat, which I got for only $36 last year. And the last one is a Cole Haan pointed toe high heel stiletto. That one I bought for a mere $29. Come on...you know that I am a bargain shopper and don't pay full price (unlike my husband).
Hmmm...maybe this fall season, I will add a thin animal print belt to my wardrobe. Considering 50% of my closet is black clothing, that should be a nice added touch. Remember...Baby Steps!
Enjoy your day!
Lynn
Monday, August 1, 2011
What to Wear to a Wedding!
How often have you asked yourself this question...What should I wear to the wedding? Well, probably every time you go to a wedding, right? I just had to ask myself this question not too long ago because we attended a family wedding this past weekend.
First of all, I had to think of my children and what they should wear. Priorities!! My son was easy. As for my daughter, she changed her mind a few times, but she finally decided on a dress and shoes and some of my jewelry, of course. Now it was my turn. What should I wear?
I had bought a dress awhile back at a local boutique called Vintage Charm. I love the store and loved the dress and had to have it. Then as time went on and the wedding drew nearer, I had buyer's remorse. Oh, I still loved the dress but was it appropriate for the wedding? Would it be too dressy for this particular wedding? No, I didn't buy a formal gown or anything. Anyway, I didn't find anything else that I liked and didn't want to wear black...again...as I always do.
Since it was a family wedding, and I was doing a reading during the service, I decided to wear the dress. Then when I showed up at the church, I saw a lot of wedding guests wearing casual attire...very casual attire...like shorts and jeans. It was quite interesting. And yes, I was still happy with my dress and glad that I wore it.
But after seeing all the casually dressed wedding quests, I had to ask....
What do you wear to a wedding? What is appropriate to wear to a wedding?
Answer...It depends on the wedding!! Read the invitation thoroughly to see if it states so. Does it say black tie, black tie optional, creative cocktail attire, casual attire, etc. Where is the wedding being held? On the beach, on a boat, in a church, in a restaurant, in a backyard, etc. Do I sound like Dr. Seuss? Having the wedding service and/or reception at a country club vs. a barn makes a huge difference. Make sure you have all of the facts first before you make your decision. And if you are still unsure, contact the bride. If you don't know the bride, have the groom ask the bride for you. She will definitely tell you exactly what you should wear and what you shouldn't wear!!
And don't forget, as I told my daughter...never wear white to a wedding!!!!
Enjoy your day!!!
Lynn
First of all, I had to think of my children and what they should wear. Priorities!! My son was easy. As for my daughter, she changed her mind a few times, but she finally decided on a dress and shoes and some of my jewelry, of course. Now it was my turn. What should I wear?
I had bought a dress awhile back at a local boutique called Vintage Charm. I love the store and loved the dress and had to have it. Then as time went on and the wedding drew nearer, I had buyer's remorse. Oh, I still loved the dress but was it appropriate for the wedding? Would it be too dressy for this particular wedding? No, I didn't buy a formal gown or anything. Anyway, I didn't find anything else that I liked and didn't want to wear black...again...as I always do.
Since it was a family wedding, and I was doing a reading during the service, I decided to wear the dress. Then when I showed up at the church, I saw a lot of wedding guests wearing casual attire...very casual attire...like shorts and jeans. It was quite interesting. And yes, I was still happy with my dress and glad that I wore it.
But after seeing all the casually dressed wedding quests, I had to ask....
What do you wear to a wedding? What is appropriate to wear to a wedding?
Answer...It depends on the wedding!! Read the invitation thoroughly to see if it states so. Does it say black tie, black tie optional, creative cocktail attire, casual attire, etc. Where is the wedding being held? On the beach, on a boat, in a church, in a restaurant, in a backyard, etc. Do I sound like Dr. Seuss? Having the wedding service and/or reception at a country club vs. a barn makes a huge difference. Make sure you have all of the facts first before you make your decision. And if you are still unsure, contact the bride. If you don't know the bride, have the groom ask the bride for you. She will definitely tell you exactly what you should wear and what you shouldn't wear!!
And don't forget, as I told my daughter...never wear white to a wedding!!!!
Enjoy your day!!!
Lynn
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