A Reminder: More Isn't Better

Last night I was watching one of my guilty pleasures, How I Met Your Mother (if you haven’t seen it, it is a pretty witty show). Lily, the character played by Alyson Hannigan admitted she was severely in debt because every time she was unhappy (even being unhappy over a large credit card bill) she would go shopping. This is not just sit-com fodder, but a true situation happening with many women I know. We feel sad, or fat; we got dumped or passed on for a promotion; we shop. We feel that maybe a pair of new boots, a haircut with highlights, a dress even though we are more comfortable with pants will somehow fix us. That transforming the outside will in turn transform our inside. No one has been a guest on Oprah because her new wrap dress helped her lose weight. I have never met a person who can claim she married her soul mate because a pair of leather boots, and though I do agree with the belief that you should dress for the work position you desire and not the one you have, unless you work in the fashion industry rarely will you be chosen for a position over another because your new suit for the interview was inspired by Karl’s recent collection for Chanel. Having a wardrobe that fits not just your body but also your lifestyle and personality CAN transform you from the outside in. Wearing what makes you feel and look good helps boost your confidence, helps others see the real you and gives you respect in social situations. It very well could help you land that job, meet the love of your life or encourage you to lose those last few pounds because you have one less thing to worry about and stress over. But the confusing thing about a great wardrobe is more isn’t better. Three bits of cheesecake is delicious, three slices of cheesecake is nauseating. A larger wardrobe can often make the owner sick with confusion. We buy more to make ourselves feel better, but instead make ourselves feel worse because our wardrobe no longer works for us. French women are known for being very chic and stylish. They are also known for having the smallest of wardrobes. Many French stylists and authors will admit they have no more than 20-60 garments in their collection (including shoes, outerwear, and athletic gear). How do they look so chic and polished on such a tiny collection? They purchase that which they need, nothing more. Additions to the collection are made to replace something that has worn out, or if a new aspect in life (job, activity) takes place. They buy the very best quality they can afford, don’t succumb to trends, and baby the garments they own with proper cleaning and storage. They don’t self-medicate with throwaway garments and don’t try to reinvent themselves every fashion season. A couple of months ago, I provided a list of questions to ask yourself to define your personal style. That, along with classic staples should help you get started. As the leaves are turning and the weather is getting cooler in most parts of the world, now is a good time to reassess your wardrobe. Look at that list, and look at yourself in the mirror and go through your closet. Hopefully by now you have gotten rid of anything that does not fit, is in awful condition or harbors bad memories (so many women I meet have the back of their closet full of wedding gowns from previous marriages, dresses worn the night they broke up with their ex, suits they wore for their last job they hated, bridesmaid dresses with bows on the rear and clothes several sizes larger than their current size “just in case” they go back to that size). Now it’s time to look at the rest of the collection and see if it fits you here and now. Does yellow make you anxious? Then why are you holding onto that canary cashmere sweater? It may be great quality and even fit nicely, but it doesn’t make you feel good. How about that conservative tailored pantsuit? You work in a creative field and haven’t had to don a suit in years… why are you still holding on to it? And that frilly dress you bought when you were feeling insecure in your relationship. You’re not lace and bows no matter how hard you tried – get rid of it. Again, this should be done after getting your feel of your personal style, your interests, likes and dislikes. If so, you’ll find that the items you are removing are either gifts or items purchased on a whim or in an emotional state. The items forced upon you, or the items you purchased to subconsciously self-medicate for another situation in your life. You’ll also find that the removal of these items will not make it harder to get dressed every morning, but easier. Less decisions – an arsenal of go-to pieces that make you happy, fit you well and work for you occasion. Don’t think of it as losing your collection – think of it as becoming chic and polished like the French. As you work with this simplified wardrobe, you will start to see what you really do need to add to your collection, and start shopping for needs, not wants. Find joy in texture and colors and the beauty of knowing that new garment will add life to many other pieces already at home and work with the true you, not the sad/bored/frustrated temporary you.

Vendor Review - Duo

I am always on the look for a pair of boots that fit my large calves, yet still have great style. Like plus-sized clothing, this combination is hard to find. Seems that all boots for larger calves are boring styles or totally tacky and/or dated. A reader told me about Duo, a UK-based company that prides themselves on having an extensive selection of boots for almost every size calf. I headed over to their site and was utterly amazed at the selection. Yes, like other companies they have the standard tall boot in black and brown and a few selections I wouldn't get caught dead wearing, but so many choices that were current and stylish, I had a hard time choosing which style to try. I ended up choosing the Bern in caramel brown (photo from site), which I felt most closely replicated the classic Frye Harness boot that I covet but can't pull up over my ankle. With the ability to size the boot shaft in centimeters, I was able to get a more custom fit than with inches. Converted into American fundage, the boots ended up being $238 with shipping - not cheap but equivalent to high-quality brands in the states that do not cater to my leg shape (and cheaper than Frye!). If these boots were as great as I had read, the price will be nothing for years and years of happy wear. The boots arrived in less than two weeks, but were sent registered post and required a signature from me (not the husband) to pick up. Since the post office is open only when I am at work, it took a bit longer to get my purchase. No worries, better than leaving them out in the rain on my front porch. Do note - the return policy is only ten days from receiving and the shoes need to be in mint condition if you do plan to send back. Be sure to wear them on carpeting to try them out at first. The packaging is excellent - heavy plastic shipping bag that can easily be reused for returns. The box was sturdy and the boots carefully wrapped and protected. And the leather... these are GORGEOUS boots. The color was called Caramel Brown, but the shade is more of a tan - almost the same color as my legs (photo taken by moi). At first I feared this color would look strange and not match anything, but I think the lighter color was actually more flattering with large calves - not drawing attention to the size of the leg but the style of the boot. Like the Frye Harness boot, these boots look cool out of the box, and will look awesome in a couple years after some wear and tear. The shaft is fleece-lined, and the footbed is leather. The stitching is well-done and high quality. The zipper is sturdy and has an elegant zipper pull. There are elasticized gussets at the back of the shaft for flexibility - if I had recalled this feature, I could have gone a centimeter or two smaller (one should already go a centimeter or two smaller than your measurement as that leather does stretch over time). However, I wanted a casual look and the looser fit seems to work. Friday night I wore the boots around the house for movies and pizza and unlike previous "wide-calf" boots, these didn't dig into my legs, leaving track marks from the zippers cutting into flesh. Not only that, they were comfy on the feet - good support and decent cushioning. I gave the boots the true test the rest of the weekend - wore them to tailgate for my college homecoming football game (five hours on my feet on concrete) and then Sunday at a luncheon and then a general-admission concert (five more hours standing on concrete). After all that, my feet felt great, my calves were happy and the boots still looked beautiful. The only problem was that the insole/footbed had pulled up a bit and the adhesive stuck to itself, making it lump under my heel. I was planning on replacing the insoles with more supportive ones anyway, so I just unstuck, put back in place and was fine. This happens often with me and boots - I will not judge the quality on this one teeny snafu. Final verdict? I am a Duo fan and plan on shopping from them again in the future. The international shopping, high ticket price and the strict return policy may seem daunting but the quality and fit make it all worthwhile!

You Usually Get What You Pay For

I am all about searching for a bargain. I have found high quality items at big box retailers, discount stores, thrift stores and eBay. Thing is, nine times out of ten if you buy from a company that prides itself on low prices, you’ll often get quality comparative to that price. Case in point, Newport News. I know, I have been burned by them before. However, I recently won a dark denim pencil skirt from them via another blog. It arrived, the fabric seemed good, the seaming was sassy, and other than not coming in petite sizes and being a tad too long, it fit well. Through the day, the skirt grew. Nothing shocking, all stretch denim seems to grow a size throughout a day of wearing. By the end of the day the skirt could be a tube dress, it had stretched out so much. I washed it on the gentle cycle on its own (the skirt bled like crazy – would have ruined anything else with it) and hung it to dry and it shrunk back to almost its original size. A quick sweep of the iron and the fabric looked brand new. Almost… the skirt was now a good half size bigger than it was when I received it. Sort of unfortunate considering I am a 12/14, ordered a 12 and even brand new it seemed a bit big. I really hate the inconsistencies of sizing these days and it seems the cheaper the garment the greater the vanity sizing. So today I decide to wear the skirt. I wear a fitted top with it to counteract the not-so-pencil shape the skirt now has. Thought it looked pretty good. Zipped up the back and headed to work. Got out of the car, and felt something metallic on my back under my shirt. Felt around while walking to the office and nothing seemed out of the ordinary. Walked to my desk and felt it again. This time I realized my skirt was unzipped. I went to zip it up and surprise surprise, it won’t stay zipped. The zipper seemed to lose its grip, the pull didn’t lock flat and was acting like a 40-year old garment put against extreme strain, not a twice-worn skirt that is too large for its owner. Fashion change, style is eternal. This skirt is cute, its $29.50 price tag is appealing. However like almost everything else from this company, it’s crap. Ladies, it is far better to wear the same black pencil skirt every week for five years, than to buy five skirts at the same price and end up tossing them in the trash or the donation bag after a season (or less) of wear. Recently I found an adorable jade green sweater at Target. Scoop neck, puffed cap sleeves and a delightful; bright color. Best thing, it was on sale for $10. I tried it on and it looked cute enough to purchase, even though I know garments of that synthetic knit have done me wrong in the past (getting runs, pills, not washing well). Heck, it was only $10, right? After one day at work, the skinny seam around both armholes had given so that the hem separated from the top. No worries, I have a sewing kit at home and fixed it while watching America’s Next Top Model. Then the button fell off. No worries, I had an extra button that would work just fine. Then the hem gave way near the bottom of the top. Come to find out, that $10 bargain is costing me more time and stress than the most delicate and expensive dress in my closet. Point is, just a reminder to really put thought and care into what you purchase. There is a chance that a $10 sweater could be a great addition to your wardrobe, but before you take the plunge, check the garment carefully and analyze how it will fit with the rest of your collection. Do you need it? Is it perfect for you? Would it better to use that $10 toward a more expensive sweater that will be more versatile and possibly last longer in your closet? Style comes from quality, not quantity. Now I am off to hunt down a safety pin…

Sustainability is Stylish

It’s amazing how little decisions – ones that won’t cost more time or money can make a big difference in regard to the environment. On behalf of Blog Action Day, a few ideas that will make tiny changes in your life but big changes for our future… 1. Bring Your Mug to Work Day. Many workplaces have coffee, tea and filtered water available for their employees, and stacks of Styrofoam cups ready for these drinks. Look chic and be green by bringing your own cup or mug. If your office doesn’t provide soap and a sponge to wash your cup, donate some and encourage others to follow your lead. A graceful porcelain teacup or a hearty mug that represents your personal style is far more fashionable on your desk than a generic disposable one. This small change by you may not seem like much, but if everyone switched to a reusable cup, image the difference in the landfills! 2. Shop Your Closet, or Your Friend’s. Before heading to the mall, take a second gander at your own wardrobe. That skirt that is part of your dust-covered interview suit may work as a very chic pencil skirt this season. That too-short dress may work as a hip tunic over jeans or trousers, and those slightly-short and slightly-tight jeans may look fabulous tucked into some great tall boots and paired with a slouchy sweater. Before you toss those Just Wrong pieces from your closet, call up your girlfriends. Your trash may be your best friend’s treasure and vice versa. Serve up some cocktails and make a swap party out of the event! 3. BYOB. Bring your own... bag! All those plastic bags take up space in your house and in landfills as well. Keep a tote in your bag or next to your door so it’s ready for your next trip to the market. But totes are not just for the grocery store – bring your bag to the mall, Target, even Home Depot. Show your style and encourage shoppers around you with your sassy reusable bag. And if you are only buying one item and don’t have your tote, say “thanks, but no thanks” and carry your purchase in your hand. Who needs another plastic bag floating around? Want the bag featured? Visit this site! 4. Think Before You Shop. Wow, those tee shirts at Wal-Mart are only $5 but do you REALLY need another tee shirt? Stop and think about the future of this purchase – a few washings and you will either tire of it or it will fall apart. You’ll toss it in a bag for Goodwill a year from now even though it’s torn, threadbare and stained. What do you think happens to that rag with sleeves? I’ll tell you, it’s not going to be on the back of the homeless and it won’t end up on a hanger at the local thrift store. You donate trash, that’s what it becomes. Think before you drop a few bucks on crap because a year from now it will just be adding to your local landfill. Save your money for quality garments, and you’ll not only help your sense of style but the environment as well. 5. Vote With Your Pocketbook. Do your homework before you swipe that credit card. What type of ethics does that company have? What do they do to help the environment? Good chance, you can find a very similar item for a similar price from a more ethical company. The beauty of the Internet is that with a few moments with Google (or Goodsearch) you can find out everything you would ever want to know about a company and their more green competitors. 6. Break the Habit. The water bottle habit that is. Tap water is not a bad thing, and a Brita or Pur filter on the faucet is far cheaper than buying all those silly (and tacky) bottles. And you know waters like Aquafina are nothing more than purified tap water. How much did you spend for that bottle? Yes you recycle your bottles (sometimes) but water bottles are not recycled to make more... the more bottles you consume the more bottles are made at factories that emit all kinds of nice stuff into the air. Then those water bottles are wrapped up in bleached and laminated cardboard and more plastic, shipped on big trucks that use big amounts of gas to your store. All that fuel, all that waste when there is healthier stuff practically for free from your kitchen sink. Gosh, a reusable bottle is sooo much more chic. This cutie is available here. 7. Stay Slim. Keep your elegant wallet looking slim and crisp and Just Say No to receipts and the gas station or ATM.Often we request the receipt and then promptly crumple it and toss it on the floor of our car or into a trash can. Carry a check register to log your transactions, or even write it down on a different receipt in your wallet for later confirmation. As for checking your balance, most banks offer phone and web options to do that in a jiffy, completely paper-free. Think about it, there are more than 8 billion ATM machines in the USA alone. Imagine how many receipts are being printed and then added to landfills? 8. Reading and Recycling. Catalogs are fun to find in your mailbox; magazines are even more fabulous. But what do you do with these glossies after oohing, aahing and getting your fill? Grab yourself a paper bag - one of those sturdy ones from the grocery store with the handles that sits open on its own. Open it up and stick it near your front door. Now every time you go through the mail, dump in there all the catalogs you wouldn’t be caught dead shopping from, pamphlets from car dealerships, Pennysavers and paper products that you don't want. While you're at it, bend down those cardboard holders and boxes for cans and bottles of soda and beer and tuck them in there as well. After ogling over Vogue and Pottery Barn, toss them in there as well. Then when this bag is full, take it to be recycled. In my town we have recycling bins near the Public Works building. If you do not know where paper products can be recycled in your area, call 1-800-CLEANUP or visit this site. Why bother with recycling this measly amount of paper? -Making new paper from old paper uses 30% to 55% less energy than making paper from trees and reduces related air pollution by 95%. -Recycling one ton of paper typically saves about 6.7 cubic yards of landfill space. A cubic yard of stacked office paper for example weighs about 380 pounds. Cost savings may be estimated by multiplying the tons recycled by 6.7 times the cost per cubic yard for waste disposal (if by volume) of by cost per ton (if by weight). -Commercial and residential paper waste accounts for more than 40% of waste going to the landfill. Eliminating this paper from our waste would nearly double the lives of current landfills. -Newspaper is recycled into newspaper, game boards, egg cartons, gift boxes, animal bedding, insulation, and packaging material. -Office paper is recycled into office paper, tissue paper, paper towels, and toilet paper. -Corrugated cardboard is recycled into new cardboard and cereal boxes. If this seems like a lot, try adapting just one of these tips a week. It only takes a month to make a habit – in a few months all of this will seem like old hat and you will be a very important drop in the ocean of people making a difference to protect our planet. Little steps can make a big impact!

The Tights Dilemma

Cold weather is approaching (and already has landed in the more northern parts of the planet) and with all the cute dresses and skirts in the stores this season, what’s a girl supposed to do to prevent frostbite on her knees? You know by now my opinion on pantyhose (hate it, only approve when an interview, your religion supports it, your job demands it or it’s funky/cool and you are a True Fashionista who can pull it off). But tights, tights are a different story. Tights actually DO keep your legs a bit warm (sorry ladies, I have worn hose in Maine and think I was warmer bare legged than having the cold cling to that polyester), they are very much in style and far less difficult to mess up style-wise. What color? What texture? When are they appropriate? Color Black is a great option. If they are well-made and very opaque, they can go with so many things. The past few seasons has paired black with every color under the planet (yes even brown and navy) so this is a great first choice for a tights wardrobe. I recommend a matte pair so they are more versatile and less looking like part of a Rockette’s ensemble. This season they are showing black tights with colored shoes and dress (think purple dress and burgundy shoes), black tights with black shoes and a colored dress or skirt so there is much variety. I love the heeled oxfords and mature spin on heeled Mary Janes this season – they are a perfect pair with tights to look adult and sophisticated, but with a touch of feminine whimsy. Brown is a good second if you do wear brown. Spanx actually has a reversible pair of tights that are black on one side and gray or brown on the other. This makes them doubly warm, strong and useful. Brown is great with lighter colors (camel, ivory) and can be less harsh. Make sure your brown has a nice chocolate tone and isn’t yellow-tinged like children’s tights. As for other colors, well it depends on your personal style. Burgundy is a nice choice this season – really makes black, dark gray and dark brown pop and be less ordinary. Purple is another popular shade this season and cute in legwear – again keep the color dark and cool-hued so you don’t look like a Strawberry Shortcake doll (Sour Grapes anyone?). Other darker jewel tones (dark amber, forest green, navy and even dove gray) can also look great but aren’t the hot colors for legwear this season – proceed only if these are signature colors in your wardrobe. But imagine your little black sheath, a pair of black heeled Mary Janes and then a pair of tights in a rich indigo hue. How about your ivory fisherman sweater, dark denim skirt, some brown boots and maroon tights… not traditional, but a cheap way to add color and a current trend to your wardrobe basics. Unless you are a real creative with your style, I suggest avoiding white, cream and ivory tights. One false move, and you look like a 6-year old on her first day of school. Texture If you are new to tights, I recommend going for a smooth, matte finish. This is a basic that works from season to season, doesn’t add unflattering sheen to the larger parts of the leg, won’t be as likely to show through when stretched and will go with a multitude of skirt and dress fabrics. If you are considering other textures (ornate lace styles, cable-knit, etc.) I say proceed with caution and pair with heavier fabrics on top. Textured tights can work with denim and wool, very rarely with silk and crepe. If you are doing textured legs, keep everything else simple – pattern and texture-free dresses, simple shoes, minimal jewelry and accessories. Location Tights are great for work – they keep you warm, they aren’t too flashy and keep you under wraps while still looking professional. Pair with boots (tall classic styles, calf and ankle booties), heels (the new heeled oxfords, t-strap and round toe retro-inspired pumps, Mary Janes) and ballet flats (only if you already wear ballet flats, and I recommend printed flats with colored tights, black flats with black tights for a streamlined look). Tights can take your favorite denim skirts and make them winter-appropriate. Instead of little tees and camis with sandals in the summer, pair your denim skirt with a chunky sweater or slim knit turtleneck, tights and a pair of boots. Tights are great for nights out on the town – keeps your legs warm while in line or dashing from the car, and look very current. The short-sleeved shifts of this season are perfect matches with tights and boots or heels. This fall has shown a ton of optic prints and bright jewel-toned solids which both are showcased but a solid black leg. Tights are also being shown for more formal occasions, but here I also request that you proceed with caution. Black tights could be worn at an evening affair, if the heel is high and feminine and the dress is short and of a strong color. Banana Republic has a short emerald-green satin shift that I think could be worn to a holiday party or evening wedding with black tights and heels. My friend has a dark red taffeta strapless a-line dress that she has paired with black tights and heels and has looked very cute. Do know that black may be slimming, but it also cuts your body so you will look shorter. Shorter skirts (above knee) and higher heels on your shoes will help balance the look out. Other A great thing about tights is that they hide a multitude of sins – cellulite, spider veins, pale legs, even a week without shaving! They can also assist with small bulges at the tummy and hips with all varieties of control tops. I do recommend that if you are heavier and softer in the middle to either go with a high-waisted style that hits under your bra (gives a smooth line) or forego the control so you don’t look cut in the middle. As for footless tights and leggings – I must admit I sported them quite a lot last season to mixed reviews (by others, and by me each time I looked at myself in the mirror). If you are here for basic fashion advice, then I am telling you to NOT buy footless tights unless you plan to pair them with boots (sometimes is more comfortable and no one is the wiser). Footless tights can look very cool, or terribly terrible. They cut the line of the body, they can make you look like a fashion victim, and they pair with very few classic OR current styles.

Gone Thriftin'

In college, the majority of my wardrobe came from thrift stores. It was the grunge age, and every woman’s attire for the campus bars was a fitted baby tee, some baggy vintage jeans with a flannel around the waist. Oh, and of course a well-loved pair of Doc Martens or chunky black Steve Madden loafers. My friends and I would pile into the one car amongst the six of us and we would head to the suburbs, coming home with musty-smelling bags of men’s oxfords, old jeans, wool peacoats and ironic tee shirts from the 70s. As styles changed and I got into the career world, I visited thrift stores less often. I was in the fashion field and needed to be current – and in the late 90/beginning of the millennium the look was very polished and vintage rarely looked right. I had a steamer trunk full of old clothes I felt may come back eventually – Shetland cardigans, classic blazers, 60s inspired dresses and such. I realized the majority of my “classics” were purchased at thrift stores. Over the years, my career has changed, my lifestyle has changed and fashion has become less rigid where classic pieces are admired and quirky combinations are applauded. With the change in style, thrift stores have come back into their own – not just scouring for the perfectly worn pair of Levi’s, women are finding career pieces, cocktail dresses and brand names. Companies are made just to scour the thrift stores to stock popular vintage shops and with all this popularity, it can sometimes seem that all is left at your local Goodwill or Salvation Army are stained polyester blouses and pleated tapered trousers from an itchy synthetic blend. But thrifting is about the thrill of the hunt – never was shopping at a thrift store as convenient or easy as hitting your local mall, but with some patience and the right preparation, thrifting can still be rewarding and add amazing pieces to your wardrobe – no matter your personal style. A few tips: 1. Do your homework. Find out what shops are in your area, ask friends about their experiences at locations. I know in my area, some seem to specialize in furniture, some have sales on Tuesdays, some put out new merchandise on Thursdays. Knowing this before you schedule your trip will save you time and headaches. Also, many companies donate old sale product and overstocks in November and December to thrift stores to get that end-of-year tax deduction. Also consider location. The best thrift stores for designer duds are often near wealthier and more fashion-conscious communities. 2. Know this will not be a quick trip. Thrifting is a long process where you slowly go through racks and rounders and try on more than you would expect. Schedule accordingly – I find a thrift store with a medium to small selection will take a minimum of an hour to get through the clothing section. For bigger locations, plan for more. And to enjoy your time, either go alone or with a friend who works well on her own – this is not a shopping trip with Starbucks lattes and giggles through the fitting room walls. You will do a lot of digging, thinking and analyzing. Keep the giggles and coffees to after the event. 3. If you have allergies, be prepared. Take your Claritin/Flonase/Benadryl before going and bring a bottle of water. Thrift stores are known to be musty and are harboring items that have been stuffed in attics and basements for years before seeing the interior of the shop. 4. Dress for the event. Like shopping for bridal dresses or heading to Loehman’s, the fitting room situation is not the best. Often meager cloths cover doors, actual doors have broken latches and privacy and modesty can be compromised. I shop in short bike shorts and a cami under a pull-on skirt and knit top so it’s quick changing and if a door opens, you aren’t exposing all your little bits. Wear slip-on shoes so it’s easy changing, and leave your big purse and coat in the car so you can throw garments over your arms and not have a lot of extra stuff to lug around. And don’t think holding an item up to you will do the job – pre-worn garments often have a different fit from new pieces and don’t always match the size on the tag. Most thrift stores do not do returns so take the extra 5-10 minutes to try on a garment before purchasing. 5. Don’t expect five-star service. Most employees are volunteers so say hello, give them a smile and don’t expect them to be at your beck and call. Do not expect the store to put items on hold or to help you find anything. This is also not a place to haggle price – remember what you are purchasing is usually sold to make money for a charity. Bring cash as that credit card machines cost money and are not always available (and bring small bills). 6. Save time – shop the top of the rack. Look at textures and colors – no point in pulling our a purple angora piece if you hate angora and look awful in the color purple. This method is also great for discount retailers like Ross, TJ Maxx and Marshalls. Save time and search for textures and fabrics that you would like on your body, and then search by color. Many thrift stores organize by color which helps you save time by passing up the pea-green rounder and heading straight to the blue one. 7. Be realistic. If it’s missing a few buttons or is an inch or two long, this can be remedied and the cost is justified because of the low thrift-store prices. However if the knit is unraveled, the item is obviously stained, the seat is shiny or an elbow is looking threadbare, you may be spending more than you like to get the item to be in wearable condition. 8. Don’t be blinded by the brand. Digging through a rounder of jackets, you may come across a gorgeous Calvin Klein blazer that is in great condition, a classic fabric and shade but maybe has 80s shoulderpads, is a size too small and has weird embellishments on the lapel. If you are not loving it, do not purchase it, no matter the label. I have seen designer dresses and vintage brands, but the garments are too small, in poor condition, not a flattering style and so they stay on the rack. Also, if it looks great but is a brand you never heard of, don’t put it back. Style comes from cut, fabric and color and not from the name sewn into your neckline. 9. Consider refashioning a garment. Fabulous color and style on a dress but calf-length and dated? Consider having it shortened to a mini or even tunic. A bottle of RIT dye can make the most humdrum knits look brand new and spectacular. A nip and tuck if you're crafty (or have a reputable tailor) can make mediocre pieces become stylish must-haves. 10. Give back. If you’re en route to a thrift store, why not scan your closet for any garments that aren’t worn or past their prime and donate when you shop? 11. Don’t give up. So you hit the Community Thrift and find only duds. Consider how often you donate clothes, and how often others do too – that store will be full of completely different garments a month later. An hour once a month can be a great investment – I think of that every time I see my Diane von Furstenberg silk blouse in my closet that cost only $1.25 or my classic blue J. Crew oxford I got for a quarter. A few links to find a thrift store near you: -The Salvation Army of the United States -Goodwill Store Locator (and check out their fashion blog too!) -National Association of Resale and Thrift Shops -The Thrift Shopper Happy Hunting!

Blog Action Day

What if every blog wrote about the same topic on the same day? what impact would it have? What change could us bloggers make? This coming Monday, October 15th join me and over 10,000 bloggers and write about the same topic - the environment. A topic that we're all talking about, and many of us want to do more to help. From Blog Action Day: On October 15th - Blog Action Day, bloggers around the web will unite to put a single important issue on everyone's mind. In its inaugural year, Blog Action Day will be co-ordinating bloggers to tackle the issue of the environment. What Each Blogger Will Do Bloggers can participate on Blog Action Day in one of two ways: 1. Publish a post on their blog which relates to an issue of their own choice pertaining to the environment. For example: A blog about money might write about how to save around the home by using environmentally friendly ideas. Similarly a blog about politics might examine what weight environmental policy holds in the political arena. Posts do not need to have any specific agenda, they simply need to relate to the larger issue in whatever way suits the blogger and readership. Our aim is not to promote one particular viewpoint, only to push the issue to the table for discussion. 2. Commit to donating their day’s advertising earnings to an environmental charity of their choice. There is a list of "official" Blog Action Day charities on the site, however bloggers are also free to choose an alternate environmental charity to donate to if they wish. And that’s it. I really cannot think of a single theme blog who cannot write about the environment and not have it be relevant to their topic and their readers. I know the majority of you who do read this blog write somewhere else - you may have your own blog on fashion and beauty, a personal online journal, maybe a Facebook or MySpace page where you sometimes post your thoughts. I encourage all of you, no matter the size of your readership to participate or at least promote this campaign. And if you do take part, leave a comment with a link to your blog so we can all share in your ideas and thoughts!

Put Your Money Where Your Heart Is

October is Fair Trade Month. So what the heck is Fair Trade anyway? It is far more than a few words on a bag of coffee beans from Starbucks. From Wikipedia: Fair trade[also known as Community Trade] is an organized social movement which promotes standards for international labor, environmentalism, and social policy in areas related to production of Fair trade labeled and unlabeled goods. The movement focuses in particular on exports from developing countries to developed countries. Fair trade's strategic intent is to deliberately work with marginalised producers and workers in order to help them move from a position of vulnerability to security and economic self-sufficiency. It also aims at empowering them to become stakeholders in their own organizations and actively play a wider role in the global arena to achieve greater equity in international trade. Essentially, with Fair or Community Trade products, you are purchasing things you always do, but instead of just making some fat man behind a mahogany desk even richer, you are assisting communities around the globe to become stronger, better business people and able to support themselves. It’s always a great feeling to know that you not only purchased something you need or love, but you are assisting a fellow person in the process. How do you know something is certified Fair Trade? From the TransFair USA website: What is Fair Trade certification? Fair Trade certification is a market-based model of international trade that benefits over one million farmers and farm workers in 58 developing countries across Africa, Asia and Latin America. Fair Trade certification enables consumers to vote for a better world with their dollars, simply by looking for the Fair Trade Certified label on the products they buy. Fair Trade Certified agricultural products including coffee, tea and herbs, cocoa and chocolate, fresh fruit, sugar, rice, and spices (vanilla) are currently available at over 35,000 retail establishments in the U.S. Fair Trade empowers farmers and farm workers to lift themselves out of poverty by developing the business skills necessary to compete in the global marketplace. By guaranteeing minimum floor prices and social premiums, Fair Trade enables producers to invest in their farms and communities and protect the environment. But Fair Trade is much more than a fair price. Fair Trade principles include: Fair prices: Democratically organized farmer groups receive a guaranteed minimum floor price and an additional premium for certified organic products. Farmer organizations are also eligible for pre-harvest credit. Fair labor conditions: Workers on Fair Trade farms enjoy freedom of association, safe working conditions, and living wages. Forced child labor is strictly prohibited. Direct trade: Importers purchase from Fair Trade producer groups as directly as possible, eliminating unnecessary middlemen and empowering farmers to strengthen their organizations and become competitive players in the global economy. Democratic and transparent organizations: Fair Trade farmers and farm workers decide democratically how to use their Fair Trade revenues. Community development: Fair Trade farmers and farm workers invest Fair Trade premiums in social and business development projects like scholarship programs, quality improvement trainings, and organic certification. Environmental sustainability: The Fair Trade certification system strictly prohibits the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), promotes integrated farm management systems that improve soil fertility, and limits the use of harmful agrochemicals in favor of environmentally sustainable farming methods that protect farmers' health and preserve valuable ecosystems for future generations. So how can you support Fair Trade? Visit this site for more information about Fair Trade Month Shop with companies that provide certified Fair Trade products. Some of my favorites: This gorgeous silk scarf. I love the jewel tones and the beaded trim adds a touch of whimsy. This scarf is long enough to double around your neck with a lightweight fall coat, to make a shawl of sorts for the evening, or to add color to almost every outfit in your wardrobe. How about for the sports fanatic in your life? Holidays are right around the corner and this soccer ball is professional grade yet cheaper than many of the popular brands. That, AND it is certified Free Trade? Pretty awesome! How gorgeous are these cruelty-free leather blank books? A great treat for yourself and always a great gift for others. I personally am coveting the pink one to write all my random ramblings when on the subway or waiting to meet a friend. It’s size would fit perfectly into my bag! How gorgeous and unique is this purse? I can totally see it with an LBD this winter with some killer strappy heels, and it would be great in the warmer months with a linen shift or sundress. I am also loving this beaded cuff bracelet. I find it amazing that if you purchase this bracelet you can fund 2.5 months of a scholarship for a child in the community of el Tablon. Stylish and socially conscious, a gorgeous pairing. And this necklace is utterly gorgeous, a real statement piece and though it does help others, it is far cheaper than many similar styles from designers. Nothing is more chic than wearing a piece that not only makes you look good, but make you feel good for doing something positive. I know my mantra is to buy quality, not quantity. I also believe us women need to be careful with not just what they purchase, but where they purchase. Vote with your pocketbooks, it is possible to be chic, stylish, maintain a budget AND help the world and community around you. This month, and this upcoming holiday season, consider Fair Trade retailers for your purchases.

Random Items I am Coveting...

I am being very good and am not splurging on every little item I see. It's hard because this season seems to have so many great styles and looks! However, true style comes from carefully selecting pieces for your collection and I don't NEED all of these items (or even find them to work with my lifestyle). This top. I want to wear it with black very opaque tights and Engineer boots and lots of kohl liner to a very hip place. too bad I don't have Engineer boots, a hip place to go, or $270 to shell out on a shirt. These boots. the closest I may get to the Frye "harness" boots I have coveted for decades but do not fit over my monster calves. I have ordered them and will provide a review once they arrive. Hooray for companies selling interesting and cool boots in larger sizes! This dress Problem is the petite 12 is too tight in the bust and hips, the 14 is too big everywhere and there just isn't one that is just right. Anyone else know where I can get an emerald green satin shift with puff sleeves in a petite 12 or 14? This bag. I have always loved Hayden-Harnett; each season they come out with the coolest shapes and colors. This is a nice change from my Banana Republic hobo in tan and is a nice color to go with all the black and jewel tones I often sport. These pumps. Like I really need another pair of pumps, but I love this pattern and think they would be so lovely with a simple black dress... or even a great pair of jeans! I have found over time the animal-print heels I own end up being the most versatile shoes in my wardrobe. Thing is, I already have animal-print heels... This coat. I always love red coats, this pintucking and the self-belt are so different and fun yet elegant. I doubt the cut would flatter my frame and I do have a lovely black wool single-breasted Calvin Klein that is the same length, fits great, and got for a song at TJ Maxx a few years ago. This dress also. I love the little-girl cut, the pockets, the silk, the cool back... I love how it would look current with black tights and heels, but could also transition into warmer months.