Who Wants a Year's Worth of Free Shoes?

When I feel bad I like to treat myself. Clothes never look any good... food just makes me fatter... shoes always fit. -Rose Feller, from the movie In Her Shoes It’s true, no matter what size we are, we can usually find a pair of fabulous footwear to make us feel sassy, feminine, powerful and pretty. No other accessory can transform a look, or the wearer with such intensity. Reader Jacqueline recently told me about a company she is part of – Footprints International. We have all been exposed to the at-home parties for Pampered Chef, Partylite, and even I used to even be a consultant for The Body Shop at Home. Those parties are fun because you get to sip cocktails with your girlfriends while shopping or playing with gadgets or beauty products. Well imagine if you could have a shoe store come to your home? Well Footprints International allows you to do just that. Jacqueline is having the most fabulous contest going on right now, and I just had to share it all with you: Footprints International wants to know, in 200 words or less, why you adore your shoes. What is it about wearing a fabulous pair of shoes that excites you, makes you feel beautiful, or puts a smile on your face? All contest entries will begin: “I adore my shoes because. . .” The Grand Prize winner will receive 12 pairs of fabulous Footprints International Shoes – yes, that's the equivalent of a pair a month for a year with special surprise bonuses throughout the year. The Grand Prize winner will also receive a special shoe gift arrangement filled with shoe goodies. The First Prize winner will receive six pairs of Footprints International Shoes, plus a gift arrangement; and Second Prize winner will receive three pairs of shoes, plus a gift arrangement. All pairs of shoes are at a value of up to $50.00 each. The Contest ends at 11:59:59 P.M. PT on March 31, 2008. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. To enter, visit our website at http://www.footprintsinternational.com/. Please indicate her name (Jacqueline) at the end of your entry. As our special gift to you, for entering our contest, you will receive a 20% discount on your next purchase from Footprints International. See complete rules for this contest at http://www.footprintsinternational.com/. For more information about Footprints International, stop by Jacqueline’s blog, Give a Shoe Party. Good luck to all who enter! UPDATE: Footprints International has extended the contest deadline to April 16th. Winners will still be announced on May 1st.

Please Don't Try to Get This Look!

The other day I was heading into the Metro to go to work and I passed the line of boxes offering the free papers for the community. I usually just pick up the Washington Post Express – it’s exactly the length to read for my commute (skip the sports unless it’s baseball season, read the horoscope as I exit the train and drop it in the recycling bin). However a competitor daily commuter paper caught my eye – Catherine Zeta Jones was on the front and it had an article inside discussing her fashion sense! I snagged it with my usual Express and headed into the station. This other paper was in the recycling bin before I even caught my train, and it was because of the so-called “article” on how to get Zeta-Jones’ look. They showed a photo of her at the opening of the remodeled Red Door Salon on Fifth Avenue in New York City, she was dressed in a lovely belted dress with a yellow coat over it. They then proceeded to show how a commoner like us could “get” her look. Instead of a bracelet-sleeved single-breasted jacket, the magazine showed a short, double-breasted belted trench. Instead of a navy sheath with black belt, they offered a low v-necked black jersey dress. And instead of her classic round-toed pumps, they offered embellished black peeptoe heels. How the heck was this getting her look? If you put those three items together, you would look like a hot mess, not like Catherine Zeta-Jones. Very very rarely can one achieve a “look” with cheap options in the same colors. Believing that you can find a celebrity’s exact look in your local Wal-Mart or Forever 21 is like believing that a lovely bottle of Bordeaux can be replaced with Boone’s Farm. This isn’t to say one can’t achieve style like Catherine on any budget. The point is you can’t be a mirror image. But then no stylish woman imitates, she only gets inspiration from others. Breaking down this look, it is quite simple to replicate at any budget level. The beauty of the look isn’t as much in the color, as the lines. - The jacket is single-breasted, which is flattering to a curvy body. It ends a hair above the hem of the skirt, which looks polished and well-tailored. The bracelet sleeves are fresh, and the black buttons pull the jacket into the look making it an outfit instead of separates. Yes, the pale yellow makes this look stand out and look very current with the Spring trends, but the same look could be achieved with ivory, pale aqua, a dark celadon, even khaki. It’s more about the contrast of light jacket against dark dress. - The dress is a simple sheath, but is tailored to fit her nicely. She makes it look fresh with the wide belt and the black color. The length is just at the top of the knee, which is flattering to the majority of women. Again this is not as much about the color, as the line of the look. It wouldn’t be as “trendy” if it wasn’t a navy dress with black belt, but this look could work with browns, with all black, even with gray. -The pumps are very simple in style to fit the clean lines of the overall look. If they had adornment or an open toe, it would cheapen the look and not have it so cohesive. -Notice the simplicity of her jewelry (delicate gold earrings and bracelet); they don’t compete against the graphic look of the outfit. Same with her hair and makeup – clean, polished, but just accents to the outfit which is center stage. Nine times out of ten, when I see a “Get Her Look” or “Splurge vs. Steal” article, the cheaper versions look like crap. It’s frustrating, because you don’t have to have a lot of money to have a beautiful look. I wonder if these editors do their work, or just see a pile of crap that has been delivered to their office from various retailers and dig through it in five minutes to find random pieces that could “pass” as equivalents. Are they all so jaded, or disconnected from the real world that they don’t realize that utterly fabulous things are to be found outside of the couture store or fancy boutique? What makes a celebrity look so chic isn’t that she is wearing the coolest trends or the color of the season, it is that she is wearing clothing that flatters her body and her personality. Ms. Zeta-Jones looks so fabulous because she (and possibly a stylist) found silhouettes that flatter, a current style that fits her own personal style, and a look that was appropriate for the occasion. A stylish woman never scrambles to mimic a look that she can’t afford or wear well. A stylish woman would admire the look, consider her own frame and budget and use this for reference on her next shopping trip. The only look a woman should be trying to get is her own.

Reader Question - Storing Out of Season Clothing

Reader Joyce Asked: I invested in a few nice wool, silk and cashmere pieces over the fall and winter, and now that it's almost time to put them away, I am worried about keeping them in good condition until it's time to wear them again. Any suggestions on storing these garments during the warmer months? Hey Joyce: Perfect timing! I know here in the Nation’s Capital it was warm enough the past two days to go without a coat so it’s time in many parts of the world to start storing away the heavy winter garments and pull out the cotton and linen pieces! I’d be happy to share my steps for storing out-of-season garments: 1. Clean Everything Before Storing. Even if it doesn’t have a stain, you will want each garment cleaned to remove any perspiration or invisible stains. Body odor and perfumes attract bugs, and invisible stains can set over the months and become quite obvious come the fall when the garments are pulled out to wear again. When cleaning, avoid the use of starch or fabric softener as that these too attract moths and other pests. 2. The Right Place for Everything. Sweaters and knits do best by being folded instead of being hung. A few months on a hanger can cause your beautiful cashmeres to be misshapen. If they are folded and stored in a cedar chest (I have one that has been passed down the family) or a plastic box (use acid-free tissue or even old pillowcases to protect garments inside the box), they will keep their natural shape. Be sure to not pack too tightly so the items can breathe; if packed too tight they may crease or even begin growing mildew. Dresses and blouses are usually best on hangers. Use sturdy plastic or wooden hangers, and make use of every hanging loop inside the garment to ensure it stays on the hanger and also hangs the right way so it doesn’t get misshapen. To keep them protected, store hanging items in a fabric garment bag (I found some great canvas ones at Marshall’s for a fabulous price – they have rod hooks of their own and a bar inside and a zipper for easy access to the contents of the bag). As with the items in a box, don’t cram garments together – letting them breathe will keep them in the best condition. An inch between each hanger is a good guide. Coats should be stored in the same fashion, but the heavier the garment, the sturdier your hanger should be. A few months on a thin plastic hanger can cause what my husband calls “tumors” on the shoulders of your favorite garments. Invest in proper wide coat hangers and your clothes will be ready-to-wear when the cooler weather returns. Never use paper bags or cardboard to store your clothes – buggies adore cardboard and paper and will eat straight through to your silks. 3. Treat Your Clothes Like Your Spices. This means keep them in a cool, dry place. Attics seem like the best place, but they can often be way over 100 degrees even on the most pleasant June day. Basements can often be damp, so use a plastic box and try to store on a shelf above the floor and consider a dehumidifier. Before storing in a closet, give it a damp dusting, a vacuuming and a chance to settle and dry out before adding your clothes. This will help get rid of any bug eggs that may be hiding in corners. 4. Moth Balls are Passé. Your grandmother may have used moth balls, but they aren’t the best choice in this day and age. Yes they stink to high heaven, but the chemicals can also be damaging to delicate fabrics and decoration. To keep pests at bay, consider cedar blocks, or even sachets made from natural rosemary and/or lavender. However these aren’t guaranteed ways to be moth-free, so ensure you always store in a clean area. Hope this helps! There’s no point in purchasing quality garments if you don’t treat them well enough to last a long time. Most materials can be found at shops like The Container Store, or even your local Target or discount Big Box retailer.

Backless Bra for Busty Gals?

Maidenform has launched the first-ever completely backless bra. The Breakthrough™ Backless Bra, a one-of-a-kind design, allows women of all bust sizes, and especially large-busted women, the chance to take advantage of this season’s sexy backless fashions. As a woman with a bust on the larger size, I wonder if this bra really could support and allow me to wear outfits with lower backs. From the Maidenform Press Release: Backless fashions are all the rage this spring! From special occasion to ready-to-wear, designers are including sexy backless styles in all of their spring collections. But who can really wear these fashions? Most women today are in desperate need of bra support! The first ever Breakthrough™ Backless bra by Maidenform® is here in time to offer women all the support they need this spring. Thanks to the ABC’s hit reality series “American Inventor”™ -- from “American Idol” producers FremantleMedia North America, Simon Cowell’s Syco Television and Peter Jones TV Ltd. – our fashion worries will soon be over. Originally created by runner-up contestant Elaine Cato, the new Maidenform Breakthrough™ Backless Bra is the first product ever to be brought to mass market. This new foundation features a completely backless construction with silicone wire channeling that prevents slippage. Now women don’t have to shy away from the latest backless fashion trends and can feel sexy, feminine and supported – all at once! A born entrepreneur and single mother of two, Elaine Cato was not afraid to put her invention to the test. Like the producers and judges on “American Inventor,” Maidenform immediately saw the undeniable promise of her creation, working diligently with her to bring the design to fruition and later to mass market. Today, the Breakthrough™ Backless Bra, armed with Elaine’s concept, has created an undergarment aimed to perfectly round-out every innerwear wardrobe. The Breakthrough™ Backless Bra features light-weight microfiber fabric that is soft to the touch, with seamless molded foam cups that deliver smooth shaping under clothes. Combined with a two-way stretch technology, the bra provides a maneuverable fit with excellent flexibility. Designed with the full-figured female in mind, the bra allows women with even large busts to flaunt their sexy backs like never before! “During the warmer seasons, women crave those backless styles,” says Norah Alberto, Maidenform’s Senior Style Director. “To help these women bare their back for spring we are launching the new Breakthrough™ Backless Bra which delivers the perfect complement to everyone’s bra closet and is the answer to so many women’s style dilemmas.” At a suggested retail price of $32 (though currently only $25 if you pre-order on the Maidenform Web site!) and sizes ranging from 34B to 38DD, I plan to try it out and I will be sure to come back here and let you guys know what I think!

Free Tip - Cut the Purse Strings!

Each week I will be posting a free way that you can update your look or wardrobe - simple and budget friendly steps that are super easy to accomplish. This week's idea - cutting the purse strings! With use, leather and leather-like bags often start to fray, especially at the straps. We often miss this detail, with our purses becoming almost a part of our bodies. We throw them over our shoulder and don't usually give them a second look. Walking to work today, I saw several women (and men with messenger and laptop bags) carrying expensive looking and new styles of bags that looked a big raggedy just because of these wayward threads. With a pair of embroidery or cuticle scissors, snip all the little strings from the edges of your purse. While you're at it, grab your laptop bag, your favorite tote and any other handbags in your collection and give them a trim. You won't need to even touch the fabric, little scissors like this will get close enough to the bag for a clean finish without damaging the material. A little snip of those purse strings, and your bag will look newer and more polished!

A Wide Calf Boot Update

So as you know from many previous posts on here, I have wide calves and have dealt with many companies trying to find tall boots that fit and flatter my larger-than-average legs. Many of you have suggested having a cobbler stretch traditionally-sized boots, but to give you some perspective, the last boots I ordered that fit had a 45 cm calf... that's around an 18" shaft for Americans. Most regular boots are 14-15" and a wide calf boot in stores like J. Crew and Ann Taylor is usually around a 16-17" shaft. I know many many of you readers have the same issue - the "wide calf" boots available aren't wide enough or the selection plentiful enough. Well since my last review of specialty bootmaker Duo and plus size retailer Silhouettes, I have been doing some more boot shopping, searching for the Holy Grail of Wide-Calf Boots, and I wanted to share my experiences with you. Silhouettes After the great experience with my brown suede boots from Silhouettes, I decided to try a few more styles. End of the season sales made their average selection suddenly look delicious. I ordered a classic camel tall leather boot with wood heel, and a slouchy black leather tall boot (see below left). As that I usually wear a 7.5, I ordered an 8 and WW for both pairs. Boots are often better fitting if a half-size larger than usual, and my brown suede boots from there were 8WW. The camel ones were HUGE, I mean HUGE! I didn't even have to unzip them to get them on. The foot was also far too large, as that these boots were not just wide in the calf but in the foot too. Very confusing as that they were the same brand as the brown suede ones I already owned. The leather was very stiff and if it was stamped with the "Real Leather" logo, I would wonder if these were a synthetic fabric. The toe was rounder than expected - not as classic of a look as I would have desired. I wished that Silhouettes offered the size of the boot shaft like Wide-Widths and Duo. As for the black ones, well I almost kept them. The leather was buttery soft and had a rocker look to them with the cuff, the slouchiness and the glossy finish. The toe was a bit snub and round (a longer, pointier, squarer or platform toe would have enhanced the rocker look and made them look more expensive), but in general an attractive boot that looked more expensive than its pricetag. However yet again, they didn't fit correctly. The left leg was a teensy bit big - nothing I couldn't deal with. however the right leg - I was SWIMMING in it. I really fought over whether to keep and see if a cobbler could alter to fit, or return. After factoring in the slouchy/gathered leather of the style, I decided it would probably be too expensive to alter and returned them as well. I must say, the return policy for Silhouettes is pretty good- 30 days and you can try them out before you return them - no need to pussy-foot around your carpeted rooms not really getting a feel for the footwear. My card was credited the amount in less than a month, no hassles at all. Silhouettes also offers a toll-free assistance line and email address - something I will take advantage of this fall when I return to my quest to find tall boots. Possibly they would have been able to advise me on which size to choose to get a custom fit. eBay/Silhouettes Loved my brown slouchy suede boots from Silhouettes, I headed to eBay to see if I could find the same boots in a different color. As I have mentioned before, there are many sellers offering new and gently used wide-calf boots. I found one who had my brown boots in purple. Purple, how fun! Nice splash of color with my predominately black winter wardrobe, and one of my favorite hues. Ordered the same size and width as my brown boots... They arrived quickly, pristine in the original box. Same quality of suede, same exact style number. They didn't fit. First, they were way too snug on my feet. Second, I couldn't zip them over my ankle bone. What the heck? I put them up against my brown boots to compare. Same stamps inside, same shape, same cut but the purple boots were shorter, slimmer, all over a smaller boot. Honestly, they looked like a size 7 regular-width calf. My lesson? Ask the seller where they got the merchandise. Maybe these were irregulars that Silhouettes discarded... Roaman's A fellow blogger tipped me off that Roaman's offers a decent selection of wide-calf boots, and their descriptions of sizes and circumferences pretty detailed. I decided to order the Plus-calf Leather Boot by Step Up Comfort (see below left). I desired a taller heel and more modern style, but the price was great (sale) and I found an awesome coupon online that made these boots a DEAL with free shipping. Again, I ordered 8, but this time went with M as that the description said these boots would really stretch to fit. The shoes arrived quickly... and didn't look at all like the picture. No where in the description, or in the zoomed image of the boots did the site explain that the black leather had a weird glaze on it to make them look old, gray and as though someone spilled milk on them and let it dry. Dull, crackle finish, and the boot was slightly taller in the front than in the back. This may be for comfort, but I felt as though it made it look more like a pirate, than a work boot. Went to put them on... and these were too small! Yet again, couldn't zip them up over the ankle bone. However my friend ordered the same boots and they did fit her perfectly. Hers also had the weird milky glaze, but she also got the coupon and sale price and felt they would be fine enough and the low heel perfect for tromping around the city. Roaman's also has a great exchange/return policy - 90 days, satisfaction guaranteed. They had a UPS pre-paid label enclosed so I was able to easily drop off the box at my nearby UPS Store. They too credited my card very quickly and there were no hassles. Duo I had had great success with Duo before, but was trying to find a cheaper alternative. After all my return and shipping costs from these previous vendors, I realize I should have stuck with a company I knew and trusted. On top of that, Duo was also having a sale on a large portion of their selection, and many sale boots were exactly what I was looking for! I chose the "Toledo" in black (below left), which had a mid-height heel and a classic look. I went back to my previous order's email confirmation and typed in my shoe and calf widths and processed my order. The boots arrived two weeks later from across the pond, and they didn't fit. Like TOTALLY didn't fit, couldn't even get my foot in the boot! I look at the order form and realize that stupid me mixed up the sizes - I ordered my foot size (39) for the calf and calf size for the foot! Lesson learned? Double and triple check your order if you are purchasing from an overseas company or one who doesn't provide size numbers you are familiar with! I contacted Duo and told them my issue. Less than 24 hours, I received an email from them and we began an email dialog on which boot would be the best choice for my shape. The customer service representative informed me that the "Toledo" would probably be a bad choice for my shape as that I have large ankles and shins as well as calves, and that style is for "more delicate of legs" (the site did mention this style was best for petite legs and I though that meant short legs and though it was a perfect choice). She asked me which other styles in my size I liked and I sent her the names. From them, she described the boots in more detail, and how they would fit and look on my body. She reminded me that Duo is always available by email or phone to offer advice on the proper boot for any person's body. Lesson learned? Ask before ordering! With all this information, I have decided to suspend my quest for the Holy Grail of Wide Calf Boots until late Summer/early Fall when all shops will be full of their new selections. Right now sizes and styles are slim, and I don't want to be forced into purchasing that which is okay, and not awesome. However now I know to ask questions, ask questions, ask questions and double-check my order before hitting "Submit!" And of course, when I resume this journey I will be sure to keep you all updated! Other posts on Wardrobe Oxygen about Wide-Calf Boots: - It's All About the Boots - Silhouettes and eBay - Vendor Review - Duo Boots - From Allie's Mailbag - Where to Find Extended Calf Boots - Tall Boots for Wide Calves

Reader Question – How to Dress a Curvy Frame

Reader Caroline asks: Hi Wardrobe Oxygen, I have a large bust (36DD) and am a size 8. I can never find shirts or jackets that look right on me. How does a curvy lady look feminine but not like she’s putting the girls out on display? What types of shirts and dresses should I be looking for? Hey Caroline: As a fellow large-busted woman, I feel your pain. Having the curves on top, but an average dress size means items are usually too small on top, or else too large in the waist and too long in the hemlines. First, here’s a list of things you should try to stay away from: Crewnecks and Boatnecks These necklines usually make your bust look bigger, and seem to make your shoulders look just as large. Even though this example is on a small-busted woman, you can see how this style of neckline accentuates her bust area. A slightly rounded or v-neck can give the same amount of coverage, but will lengthen the look of your neck and expose part of your collarbone, showing the world you are not a linebacker. Double-breasted Jackets Two rows of buttons over your chest is not going to flatter, or de-emphasize that part of your body. A single-breasted style, preferably with a notch collar will be far kinder to your frame. Turtlenecks Again, a turtleneck will draw all attention to your bust and shoulders. A cowl neck, or even some distraction (long necklace or scarf) over the turtleneck will elongate and make the eye see the whole pictures, not just your chest. One-button Blazers Seen as a wardrobe staple by many, this classic style is a no-no for any woman with a large bust. It is near impossible to get a good fit, so the neckline will gape at the bust, emphasizing that part of your body. Button-down Shirts Sometimes you will come across a gem that works, but more often than not, a button-down shirt doesn’t work with a curvy frame. If you have enough fabric to comfortably stretch across your bust, you will often find the shoulders are too big and it is too loose in the torso. More often than not, you will find yourself tugging at a button-down all day to fit properly and not expose your bra between the buttons. And a list of what usually works: Three-button Blazers Enough buttons to follow the line of your body, and a button high enough that your bust can’t spill out of the neckline. Three buttons is still a classic look, but far more figure-flattering. Camis Worn under a wrap shirt or dress, or even a v-neck, camis will offer proper coverage while still allowing the v-style of the top garment to lengthen your look. Having the camisole the same color and a complimentary fabric to the top or dress will keep it looking sophisticated. I have knit ones to wear under cotton and other knits, synthetic to wear with silk and matte jersey. Surplice and Wrap Necklines A surplice neckline is one that has a crossover/wrap effect. It is different from a wrap shirt because it is sewn together and usually the wrap part ends around the bottom of the bustline, finishing with a traditional torso for the rest of the garment. Both a wrap and a surplice neckline are good for busty women because they nip in at the waist and offer a bit more fabric at the top. A wrap dress is often most flattering on a woman with a large bust. Look for matte jersey and heavier knits that will work with your curves, and if you need an extra inch of coverage, a cami always works! If a wrap neckline is gaping too much, it’s usually better to leave it on the hanger than try to remedy the situation at home with a safety pin or cami. Too often I see fellow curvy females with a hodgepodge on their chest – weird gathers from hidden safety pins, brooches holding fabric together, a wrap shirt that hardly meets in front with a fully-exposed pair wrapped in a tight cami. Each shape of woman has some styles she just can’t wear, if the wrap shirt in the store doesn’t flatter or fit, it’s okay. You can wear a scoopneck far better than most of your friends I bet! There are not hard fast rules with what one MUST wear, don’t settle for a cut that doesn’t work with your curves. Knits The most wonderful style this Spring for the curvy woman is the knit jacket. Free of stiff lining and structure, but still full of style and professionalism, the knit jacket is something to invest in while they are in the stores. Many are made of a fabric called Ponte de Roma, or Ponte for short. Ponte is a heavy, tightly-woven fabric that is sturdier and dressier than a traditional knit. It makes for great jackets, dresses and even pencil skirts and trousers. Often a Ponte jacket is unlined and its matching skirt or pants are, which makes for a very polished and well-fitting suit for curvy gals. This picture shows a dress from Ponte, and you can see how it has more structure than if the same dress was made from a lighter-weight knit. Matte jersey is another wonder fabric – wrinkle resistant, easy to wash, quick drying and able to dress up or down. Great for dresses and for tops, be they under a suit or worn with jeans for a night out on the town. Finally, every woman, especially those with large busts should get re-fitted for a bra every year and replace bras when they start losing elasticity or get stretched out. A good bra will completely transform your figure and how your clothing lays upon it! Hope that helps! Jacket by Elie Tahari, black dress by Maggy London, navy dress by Theory. Images and fashion from Nordstrom.

Reader Request - Suits for Tall Women

Reader Jamie writes in: I'm in law school and need to find a suit for my first upcoming 'practice' oral argument. The problem is I'm tall (5'10'') and am a 14-16. I would like to find something of good quality but not outrageously expensive. Any suggestions on where to start? Hey there Jamie: I really don’t understand why the selection for tall women is so lacking; when I was a personal shopper I would guess a third had issues with sleeve and hem lengths – maybe they were tall, possibly high-waisted, or slimmer than standard (a Size 2 isn’t always 5’5”!). JC Penney is a place to find reasonably-priced suiting in very simple, professional styles. This jacket, skirt and suit combo in a subtle pinstripe would be great for your argument, post-bar in the courtroom, or even as separates for casual days at work or out on the town. I have a love/hate relationship with New York & Company; sometimes they have beautiful and well-made pieces, and sometimes they have an entire store full of crap. However, they carry tall up to size 18, and their suiting collection is usually simple enough of style and fabric to be a good buy. Currently all the tall trousers on their site are on sale for $39.95 or less and all their tall jackets are under $70! Check out their tall suiting collection here. J. Crew may not be known for being budget-friendly, especially as their line has gotten more popular and unique, but they are known for quality. A good suit is an investment that will last you years. Their Super 120s suiting collection is made from a fine merino wool that will provide a professional and classic look for years to come. Available in tall sizes up to 14. Banana Republic also has a tall suiting line, and their collection goes up to a size 16. This taupe heather lightweight wool blazer has a matching skirt and two styles of trousers available to make it a great non-black professional suit. When you heard Lands End you may just think of windbreakers and flip flops. They also have a great collection of clothing for work, and their tall line comes in sizes up to 18. This simple two button blazer in a wool blend with matching pencil skirt would be a great choice together, or as separates to infuse into the rest of your wardrobe. Again, not the cheapest, but a classic style that will be worth the investment. Do any of you readers have any suggestions for other retailers that offer tall suiting?

Support the Fight Against MS

I’ll be honest, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) wasn’t a disease I understood, or even thought about a decade ago. I lumped it with all those “random” illnesses with initials that some lesser-known celebrity was diagnosed with, or that was a cause adopted by a bigger-name celebrity. I didn’t know anyone with MS, so it didn’t affect me. Then my now-sister-in-law was diagnosed with MS. It opened my eyes; fellow humans are being diagnosed with chronic illnesses every day – we don’t need to know them intimately to care and get involved. The only way to beat these diseases is to be informed and involved. From the National Multiple Sclerosis Society Web site: Multiple sclerosis (or MS) is a chronic, often disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system (CNS), which is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. Symptoms may be mild, such as numbness in the limbs, or severe, such as paralysis or loss of vision. The progress, severity, and specific symptoms of MS are unpredictable and vary from one person to another. Today, new treatments and advances in research are giving new hope to people affected by the disease. MS is Thought to be an Autoimmune Disease The body’s own defense system attacks myelin, the fatty substance that surrounds and protects the nerve fibers in the central nervous system. The nerve fibers themselves can also be damaged. The damaged myelin forms scar tissue (sclerosis), which gives the disease its name. When any part of the myelin sheath or nerve fiber is damaged or destroyed, nerve impulses traveling to and from the brain and spinal cord are distorted or interrupted, producing the variety of symptoms that can occur. My sister-in-law was having issues with her balance, numbness in her hands and feet, and double-vision. After many tests, it was confirmed that she had MS. Luckily she was able to get on medication early that has reduced the disease’s activity and progression. However medications like these (and future cures) would not exist if it weren’t for fundraising efforts to support research and testing. There are different ways one can help support research and care for individuals with MS, a few of my favorites are below: Pucker up for a cause with this pretty lip gloss from The Balm. Jojoba-based, SPF 17 and 25% of the proceeds will go to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, NYC Chapter. Join me on April 6th for the Annapolis, Maryland MS Walk! If you aren’t in the area, click on this link to find a walk or team near you to join or support. Want a little more exercise? Check out a bike ride in your area to support the cause. Enjoy your morning cup of coffee (or your afternoon tea) with this attractive stoneware mug from the National MS Society. Secret (or not-so-secret) metalhead? Purchase this CD that showcases letter-known metal bands and the entire proceeds will go to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and The Myelin Project. Bling with purpose: This site offers some pretty jewelry that donates 15% of the proceeds to The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, National Capital Chapter. My favorite is the “HOPE” necklace, a beautiful sentiment for anyone to wear. And of course, the more the merrier (and the stronger) when it comes to volunteers and activists! Click here to find out how you can take part. There is nothing more beautiful than an active and informed woman!

The Commuter Curse

One of the greatest things about my new job is taking public transportation. I know you must think I am crazy to say that, but I love the People Watching (a sport that deserve to be capitalized), and I love the interaction. For years I have lived in my car, alone on my rush hour commute and then alone in my office or cubicle for the majority of the day. Often I would spend a day never speaking to a soul outside of a hello when passing a coworker in the hallway. Now I get to read, listen to music, and be surrounded by my fellow humans. It's pretty great... until I am assaulted by the hideous fashion of the Woman Commuter. I too am a female commuter, and I understand why so many fellow women end up getting the Commuter Curse. It is so easy, so comfortable, and you think no one will notice. Well ladies, though we may pretend that the sweaty mouth-breather may not be pressed up against us on the subway, we are not invisible. Think about your next commuter - try as you may to hide behind your New York Times Bestseller and iPod, you are aware of those around you. If you are aware of them, they are aware of you. The Commuter Curse is when women (I hardly ever see a man succumb to this curse) begin to let certain elements of style slide. They feel that no one will notice, or justify it based upon cost or comfort. As someone who walks about a mile each day from her car in the commuter lot, through the Washington DC subway system to her place of employment, I too look for that which makes that trek the most comfortable and easy. The thing is, you are able to be a comfortable and organized commuter and not get The Commuter Curse. Some steps to be cured of The Commuter Curse: 1. Don't ever think swag is appropriate fashion. This means fleeces embroidered with your company logo, or microfiber messenger bags with silkscreened designs. It seems the higher up the corporate ladder (or the longer you work for a government agency) the more conferences and workshops you attend. With every workshop there seems to be at least one item with a logo on it: a travel mug, a tote bag, a polo shirt. These are great things to wear and use for your company retreat, to wear for your next conference or even to carry your groceries in, but they are not appropriate fashion. 2. If you must have commuter shoes, treat them with respect. I am starting to have knee problems, and realize it is due to me walking down so many stairs in subway stations while wearing heels. My commute home has me walk down five separate escalators, most that are out of service. I am looking into a pair of flat shoes I can tuck in my bag and put on just for my trip home. This doesn't mean I will be strutting around the Nation's Capital in white Reebok Classics with black hose. Modern technology has given us many styles of footwear that are just as comfortable and supportive as a pair of tennies but look far more stylish. Every day I see women in gorgeous coats over stylish suits and outfits and then clunky sneakers ruining the whole look. Nor will I be wearing a pair of old, scuffed and run-down flats that have been in my closet for a decade. These types of shoes are even more prevalent than the foot marshmallows. Yes, they have been molded to fit your foot perfectly after all these years, but they look disgusting and totally ruin your entire look. This also includes newer yet cheap flats that have lost their shape, been permanently stained or torn. They may be cute little yellow suede ballet flats, but they have a grease stain down the side, the sole is peeling from the shoe and you have walked on the back so much they have morphed from flats to slides. I never understand it; many of us walk blocks and blocks passing hundreds of people in such monstrosities, and then get to the office, put on our nice shoes and then hide behind a desk all day, the only person seeing the fancy footwear is the receptionist or the one coworker in the kitchen when you went to grab your morning cup of coffee. 3. Don't wear your bed linens to work. Yes, it can get quite cold, and it is silly to wear a cute jacket and chance frostbite or illness. However, this does not mean you need to walk around town in a down comforter with sleeves. Don't get me wrong, I have a black quilted knee-length coat that I wear on blustery days; I am talking about the really puffy coats, the ones that fall to your ankles with a huge hood, fur trim and no shape. I am talking about the thick fleece and wool coats that look like bathrobes. Again, modern invention have brought us wonderful materials such as Thinsulate, Gore-Tex, and Windstopper that are thin yet keep you warm and dry. Keep in mind that your coat will be worn more than almost any other item in your wardrobe. It is worth the time and money to find the right style that will flatter and properly fit your figure, compliment your clothing collection and still keep you toasty. 4. Have your pants hemmed to match your shoes. I understand that a commuter shoe is flat and an office shoe may have a heel, however it is never acceptable to peg or cuff your work trousers to keep them from dragging on the street or spend the day in highwaters. If you feel a flat commuter shoe is a necessity, you may have to suck it up like I have and adjust your office heel height. Every day I see beautiful, well-dressed women in pants that are dragging, cuffed awkwardly or above the ankle bones. No point in spending good money on trousers if they make you look like Pee-Wee Herman. 4. Know you are never invisible. Often we women feel we are invisible when we have a less-than-perfect body, average wardrobe or what we deem as ordinary features. We think no one will notice if we go a day without brushing our hair or have our pants too short. We’re not important, right? Wrong. You are never invisible, and you are important. Think about yourself when heading to work; don’t you notice those around you? Do you ever start daydreaming, and wonder about that person on the seat across from you? What is she reading, what does she do for a profession to warrant her attire? If you do it about another, be sure it is being done in regards to you. When you feel you aren’t important enough to be noticed, it is as though you have a neon sign blinking above your head saying “LOW SELF ESTEEM!” I am not saying one should dedicate her whole life to looking good to impress others, but give your body the same respect you hopefully give your home or your office. You should be clean, tidy, and look as though you like yourself. You have this body whether you like it or not, make the best of it. As you would jazz up an apartment with new drapes and artwork to make it look less like a sterile white box, so should you decorate yourself. You are noticed, every day whether you realize it or not. Give the right first impression, the one that properly represents the true you!

The Power of Accessories

I often blog about accessories, but I haven’t really delved into them and how they can really create your personal style. Last night on the subway I saw the best example of how accessories can tell a story better than most garments in your wardrobe. Two women on the train, both in black tailored shirts tucked in to classic black trousers. Both were wearing tan trenches, both were standing up, engrossed in their reading material. One woman had her hair in loose waves, was wearing this necklace and the matching earrings from Ann Taylor, a slim black glossy leather belt and pumps of the same glossy black leather that had silver buckles on the front. She had a black tumbled leather large satchel in her hand. The second woman had a silk scarf in bronze, camel, ivory and gold tied at her throat and tucked into the neckline. She had a thin gold chain through her belt loops and was wearing black boots with a square toe and slim heel. She had a camel leather structured purse over her shoulder, and her hair back in a low ponytail. Both women were around the same age (I would guess early ‘40s), and similar sizes. Though wearing similar outfits, they looked completely different due to the way in which they accessorized. Consider the most basic of outfits – a white button-down shirt and black trousers. Often seen as the uniform for wait staff and terribly boring, a few accessories can totally transform it to a stylish ensemble. Imagine this outfit with these accessories… what type of woman do you see? What do you think she is like? - Leopard print heels, thin gold bangle bracelets on one wrist and gold hoop earrings - An Hermes scarf and pearl studs on the ears - Delicate gold chain with a diamond pendant and black ballet flats - Black stretchy belt with patent buckle over the untucked shirt and black patent high heels - Black flats and a delicate watch with a leather band Amazing how the outfit stays the same, but the perception of the women totally changes. Weight, age and hair are not a factor – the accessories tell the same sort of story, no matter the woman. Another experiment. Imagine in your head a woman wearing dark jeans – simple bootcut style free of adornments. With it she is wearing a slim-fitting black crewneck tee-shirt. Now imagine her with: - Black Converse One Star “Chucks” sneakers and a man’s silver tank watch - A Pucci scarf tied through the belt loops and red patent leather pumps with pointy toes - Big silver hoops, a chunky silver bracelet and black biker boots - A long winter scarf in various colors looped around her neck and royal blue suede flats Again, same outfit but completely different looks; completely different personalities perceived by these looks! Often we feel that our wardrobe is too boring, too old, too predictable. Most of us cannot afford to replace our closet contests every season, so being stuck in a rut makes us A) miserable and frustrated, B) in debt, or C) buying cheap “throwaway” garments that don’t last, don’t flatter and slowly cut into our finances. Accessories are a cheaper alternative that will last longer than a flimsy polyester top from Forever 21. They take up little space and are more likely to stay or come back into fashion than most clothing in your closet. Almost daily I wear a silver bracelet I purchased at a department store over a decade ago. I still regularly receive compliments on it and it works with the styles of a 2008 wardrobe as well as it did with my collection in 1997. Many of my accessories originally belonged to my mom or were purchased at thrift stores; I have scarves from the 1960s, pendants from the 1970s and clutch purses from several decades that get regular rotation. The type of accessory you choose is far more personal than the wardrobe staples I have suggested. You can see from the examples above how the accessories explain the woman wearing them; a feminine type would look ridiculous in biker boots, and a singer in a rock band would feel awkward in a strand of pearls. On top of that, since accessories are a longer-lasting wardrobe item than a garment, it is important that the item holds importance to you. Maybe it’s your favorite color, your birthstone, similar to something your mother wore while you were a child. Possibly it was picked up on a trip overseas, or is something that just makes you happy to look at it. Cheaper accessories can be purchased if you desire a trend, but save your money for those classic pieces that will withstand years… even decades. Think of your black pantsuit, your simple black dress, your jeans and tee shirt, your work attire of twinsets and trousers. They fit, they are flattering but alone they are boring! Slowly bring accessories into your life… even more slowly than your basic wardrobe. Purchase that which calls out to you and you know will work with a large portion of your wardrobe. Envision it with clothing you already wear and as you saw the imaginary woman in the black tee-shirt and jeans, see yourself with these accessories and how they tell your story. Pictures of women courtesy of The Sartorialist. Images chosen to show how simple garments gain personality with accessories.

Speak Up!

I wrote about contacting retailers regarding poor selection for plus sizes before, well my sister recently did just such and received a response! She and I were doing our favorite lunchtime activity - internet window shopping from our respective work desks and emailing one another potential buys. She noticed a very cute Macintosh-style of rain coat at Lands End that she liked. As with many retailers, the item came in fewer (and less boring) colors for extended sizes. She decided to write them a letter. Lands End has really done a good job over the years of offering extended sizes for a large portion of their collection, and maybe a letter would open their eyes to the fact that they do not always offer the most colorful or trendy pieces in enough sizes. Dear Lands End, I love that you offer so many styles in plus sizes, especially coats. However, I am dismayed that the brighter colors usually only come in regular and petite sizes. For example, your microfiber rain coat. Just because I am plus sized does not mean I wouldn't love a bright green coat for dreary, rainy days. Blue, black and sand just aren't going to cheer me up. I have also noticed this with your winter coats - the full color options are not there for plus sizes, leaving me to think that you have decided that after a certain size, a woman should not wear certain colors. I know that Lands' End is not really sizist and would love to be able to wear all of the wonderful colors you offer. Thanks! Less than four hours later, my sister received a response from Lands End. Greetings from Lands End, Thank you so much for your customer comments on womens plus sizing at Lands End. I know that our merchants for womens petite, plus, and tall sizing love to get our customers feedback on what you like and don't like about our products and offerings. It is how we keep improving! I will certainly pass this comment along to those merchants for their review. I know that we are working hard on providing great products to all women of all sizes so your information is greatly appreciated! Thank you again and please let us know if we may be of further assistance, Sincerely, Doris C. Specialty Shoppers www.landsend.com As my sister said, this may just be the stock email they send to anyone who asks about plus sizes, or it may be a personal email written by a woman who receives emails like this all the time. Either way, this company is receiving emails about extended sizes, reading them and responding. They obviously care about the customer and if they receive enough emails, they may actually extend their sizes on more clothing. If Lands End is listening, your favorite retailer may be as well. Stop being silent and accepting the meager options for your size, be it petite, tall or plus. It takes little time to send an email to Customer Service. Be sure your email is clear, pleasant and free of typos so that you will be taken seriously. But speak up to those who receive a portion of your hard-earned money. Let them know you are not satisfied and demand better!

Too Much of a Good Thing

I am getting lots of emails and comments from women excited about the spring trends. They are wondering how to fit all of them into their current wardrobe and want to know my opinion. I agree, there are some really wonderful trends this year that can add a lot of style and personality to a simple wardrobe, that are flattering and wearable. But do know, you do NOT have to follow any trends if you do not want to! A stylish woman is not a slave to trends; she only accepts those that she honestly enjoys. That being said, if there is a trend that does fit your personality, your lifestyle and your wardrobe… too much of it can be a bad thing. Yesterday on my way home I popped into Filene’s Basement. My eyes hurt from the carnival of colors in the bag section; bags women were grabbing up as though they were free. There were patent clutches, patent slouch bags, patent frame bags in bright orange, lipstick red, canary yellow, apple green. These bags had the hip patent, the current shape that is in style, the popular bright colors and plenty of shiny hardware to boot. The yellow was the most popular, and I overheard one girl saying to her friend, “a yellow patent bag is the must-have for Spring.” Please ladies, this is how Ugg boots, leggings, distressed denim skirts and giant white plastic sunglasses become items of disgust. A magazine or a TV show tells everyone they are new and fresh and Paris or Lindsay or Sienna (or all three) is seen running around town in it. Suddenly every teen girl and her mom go out to buy that item, thinking that owning it will mean they will suddenly have a bit of the “It Factor” that these celebs have. Cheap versions are sold at big box retailers to supply the demand and now every female in a mall seems to be wearing these items as though they are a mandatory uniform. I would be so saddened to see yellow be ruined in this manner. It is exciting to see a fresh new color for spring, but if you abuse it’s powers, it will be the next Ugg boot. Yellow is for a solid-colored, well-made dress, a spring coat, a pair of peeptoe heels or round-toe girlie flats. It’s for a skinny belt over a cardigan and pencil skirt, or even a tube top to wear to that summer concert. It is not a color that should be made into everything under the sun, and honestly becomes quite hideous in large quantities and out of ostentatious fabric. Unless you are a really artsy girl who lives in primary shades and cartoon-inspired accessories, you do NOT need a big yellow patent purse. Speaking of patent leather and its cheaper cousins… again in moderation. A patent clutch is a great piece to use for nights out and with a dress for a day wedding; I find a pair of black patent heels a useful and stylish addition to a woman’s wardrobe, and adore the look of a patent accent like a belt against more subdued fabrics. However unless you are a True Fashionista, you should not be sporting any larger pieces of patent leather. I don’t care what Hayden Panettiere is shelling out for Dooney & Bourke or what they put on page 234 of Vogue, it’s not stylish. It is a fashion victim look waiting to happen. A large piece in this sort of material can easily look cheap and easily look dated. Yes, we have been wearing patent leather for decades and almost every woman reading this probably remembers her black patent Mary Janes from grade school, but large doses of patent will not stay in style for many seasons. A pair of shoes or a small accessory will add style and shine to your wardrobe; a large piece will be the equivalent to… well to Ugg boots in less than a year. A new season should not be a time for manic shopping. Slowly look through magazines and store windows, and as with any other time of the year – only purchase that which you love. The world will still rotate and you will still be quite stylish if you decide to not purchase any yellow, green, patent, enamel jewelry, floral pieces, metallic leathers or safari-inspired garments this season. Shop in moderation, and if you find a trend you love, don’t abuse it to the point that the rest of the world will despise it. Your fellow women will thank you.