Attention Old Navy & Banana Republic Card Holders...

The Gap is offering those with Old Navy and Banana Republic cards 30% off regularly priced items, and 15% off sale items from October 2-5. This is only on Gap merchandise, not from the other two retailers. 10/2/08 - 10/5/08 Online Code: GAPSTYLE2 Not valid on GAP (PRODUCT) RED, Converse, Junk Food or babyGap Home merchandise. Only valid on one order per person. Discount only on merchandise, not GiftCards or previously purchased merchandise. Cannot be combined with any other offers. NOTE: I am anti-credit cards except when they end up benefiting me. I have had a Banana Republic card for about a decade and pay it off almost every month. About a year ago, it changed to become a Visa - I still get my amazing coupons and deals with Banana, but can also accrue points towards BR deals when shopping elsewhere. The majority of what my husband and I wear come from Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy; I have control over this card and don't rack up a balance, so it has been valuable to me. Do not see this post as me condoning or encouraging anyone to open a credit card they do not need or already have. :)

I Hate Style Books

I hate style books. I have dozens at home, and almost every time I purchase one I want to kick myself. Yes, there are a few out there that offer some worthy and unique advice, but the majority are utter crap and cruel. Cruel? I said this to a friend today and she thought I was being harsh. Well let’s take a portion from a new book, Nina Garcia’s The One Hundred: A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own. Bootie Call (a chapter discussing the merits of ankle booties) • When wearing with pants, keep the colors the same. Black pants tucked into black booties will elongate the leg and make you feel fabulous. • When wearing with miniskirts, try them with Black Opaque Tights (#10) to keep your line going and going and going. Unless you have fabulous legs, illusion is our master craft. • Make sure the bootie does not cut off straight at the ankle like a traditional bootie – these boots are made to be worn under pants and will chop off the leg and make it look stumpy. • It is a great alternative to the pump – always consider it if the pump seems too safe. • The bootie is a classic way to mix the masculine with the feminine, so don’t be afraid to flaunt a little femininity when you have this more masculine shoe on. One must mix it to risk it… Okay, this sounds pretty fun and helpful. I agree, combining a black pant or tights with a black shoe hides flaws and makes the leg look long. But let’s take this apart… In general, the woman who purchases and reads this book is one who feels as though she does not possess a sense of style, thinks she is not fashionable and is looking for advice. Black pants tucked into black booties… well what type of black pants? Can one wear her black twill chinos? Black polyester pants that she wears to the nightclub? Black suiting trousers? And can any ankle bootie work? The previous page mentions Louboutin and Prada as bootie designers… not really brands that most women can afford (or even find at her local mall). So are we looking for a pull-on style? One that laces up? Chunky heel? Wedge heel? Stiletto heel? Flat boot? Suede or leather or microfiber? How about contrast stitching or trim? A miniskirt with black tights and black booties. A miniskirt? Well she does mention in another part of the book that a miniskirt may be too short, but black opaque tights makes a very short skirt fashionably skirt. So this look of mini skirt, black tights and booties will work for the office? And since this works with miniskirts, that means it can look good with my denim skirt? How about my purple floral rayon skirt that shrunk a bit in the wash but is still cute? Okay, so now we hear we don’t want a bootie that cuts straight across and the illustration shows one that dips down in front, is black with a stiletto heel and a red collar of sorts around the ankle (see illustration above, taken directly from her book). Is this the style of boot we should be looking for? This is the boot we should wear with black tights and denim miniskirts or with our black chinos? Hitting up the most widely accessible retailers for American women (Payless, Target, Wal Mart, Zappos and Macy’s), the only boots I could find under $100 that seemed to slightly fit the description Nina Garcia gave (black, ankle bootie, not a straight cut, black) were these pleated suede numbers from Abaete for Payless (left), and the “Darcy” bootie by Alfani (Found at Macy’s) (right). So next, Nina tells us that this boot can replace classic black pumps. So pretty much, one can get the Darcy bootie (which has a two-tone look JUST like the bootie that Nina suggests) and be able to wear it with black pants tucked in them, pair it with black tights and a denim mini skirt, or wear them to a wedding this weekend with a black crepe sheath dress and pearls! Awesome! Please know I am saying this with pure sarcasm, and that I don't think either boot pictured would work for what Nina is suggesting. On top of all this bootie confusion, what if the woman is 4’11”? Or maybe she is 6’2”? What if she is a size 16? Has a size 12 foot? What if she is 21? Or what if she is 71? How is this “wardrobe staple” advice? I’ll admit it, I have seen some women look utterly fabulous with black pants tucked into boots like these. Thing is, the woman usually works in a creative field, has legs a mile long, wears a single-digit clothing size, and knows that the pants need to be very skinny and the boot a little bit of slouch/definition to actually look cool and appropriate. The same holds for the bootie with a mini – she already knows that this will look best with a solid colored dress or skirt of either a substantial fabric or a sparkly cocktail fabric (lame, sequins). She also knows how short is short, and what would be appropriate for her workplace. Finally, she would rock the heck out of those boots with an LBD, but she knows the look is for the wedding of her artist cousin’s Big Day in Chicago, not the one of her college roommate who lives in the next town and is a private-school teacher. However, women read these books, try their darndest to emulate the stylish author with what they have available – a far smaller budget, limited shopping locations, a far more traditional social calendar, a more conservative or casual work environment, and a body that is usually not built thanks to home-delivered Zone diets, a nutritionist, yoga instructor and personal trainer. The reader gathers that which she can afford or replicate on the list, feeling that if she at least has a few Hanes tee shirts or an H&M trench she will be that much closer to style success. However style doesn’t come with what you collect, or what list you follow. Yes, even I have a list but I know it won’t necessarily work for all women and I know it doesn’t create instant style. My list is created for those who do not know exactly where to start – my hope is it is a canvas, a survival kit so all women have a base wardrobe. Style does not come from aviator sunglasses or diamond studs, style does not come from imitating another. Style comes from getting to know and understand yourself, your life, your body, your mind. Having a base wardrobe helps free up the mind to get creative and personal; it takes guesswork out of every day. It forces you to think… what will make this simple sweater and pants combination more ME? I adore Nina Garcia – I find her style to be unique yet full of class, I love her brutal honesty and view on Project Runway, and always gobble up her articles in Elle. However Nina Garcia’s books (and the books by many celebrities and celebrity stylists) are more so Chick Lit than reference; they are a peek into a fabulous world of a fashion editor or actress who jet-sets, works in a field where daring fashion is expected, and has drinks with celebutantes. To read Garcia’s list of one hundred items that create style is to peek into her closet and her life, not to help one find her own sense of style. The problem is America is full of women who are confused. Dove tells us to love our bodies yet stores predominately sell clothing for a different shaped person. We are told to manage our money, yet are told that we can’t be chic without an It Bag. We are celebrated for being intelligent, and trashed for not donning the latest fashions. Magazines, television shows, even the news informs us of what is hot, what is a must-have without considering finances or lifestyle. We are bombarded with products to make us look younger, be thinner, pretend to be richer, attempt to imitate the latest hot celebrity. All these so-called “style” books just add to the frustration and confusion, and it’s just plain cruel. It’s taking advantage of these confused women, stealing away their precious pennies in hopes of finding Fashion Nirvana between the pages. I know that most women I encounter are just trying to figure out how to get through the day looking presentable and appropriate, not what to wear to a black tie gala or a trip to Ibiza. And most women I encounter can’t or wouldn’t wear half of the things suggested on must-have lists or as style savers. Point is, enjoy the books as you would a great piece of Chick Lit, or even a coffee table art book. See the beauty, get lost inn the fantasy, and even use it for a bit of inspiration. But know that most of these style books are not gospel, and are normally not written for the average woman. Some books that I have found to actually be helpful: The Pocket Stylist: Behind-the-Scenes Expertise from a Fashion Pro on Creating Your Own Look – This book from Kendall Farr breaks things down for different shapes of bodies, and different weights. She offers timeless tips on how to shop, maintain clothing and build style. It is easy to read, easy to reference, and easy to connect to your actual life. This is one of the few books I have purchased that has not caused me to roll my eyes every chapter. Simple Isn't Easy: How to Find Your Personal Style and Look Fantastic Every Day! – Olivia Goldsmith (RIP) and Amy Fine Collins know the fashion world, the society world, and the real world. These teensy book may lack helpful photographs and illustrations, but jams in TONS of really helpful, realistic and fabulous advice on creating style and a working wardrobe. I bought this book in college and it still works with today’s trends. It also has been a wonderful reference for me as well as my mother – different generations, different lifestyles, different personal styles. Color Me Beautiful – I know this is terribly Old School (gosh some of you younger readers may not even know about this book), but Carole Jackson's classic really has helped so many women get a grasp on color. I have never been one to stick to my seasonal palette (I am a Winter but gosh do I love me some orange!!!), but it helped narrow down things, and realize it’s not me that looks terrible, it’s the seafoam green sweater that is causing it. One can wear an expensive dress and look like death warmed over, or a cheap dress and look like a million bucks purely based upon the colors on her face, in her hair and on her body. The book I have linked is the original from the ‘80s – do take the makeup and shoulder pad advice with a grain of salt. However do not be afraid to tear out the color sheets and take them to the mall, your hairdresser, and to your best friend’s house.

Review: Petite and Tall at Old Navy!

When you are a woman of less than average size, there is nothing more frustrating than companies who swear they carry extended sizes but they just don’t fit. As a petite woman, I hate when companies sell “short” lengths in trousers in jeans. The inseam usually is the right length, but nothing else about the pant is actually petite. Petite women are not the size of 5’7” women but with shorter legs; usually we have shorter torsos, a shorter space between belly button and crotch, our hips and thighs are thereby proportionally spaced on our body. A “short” pant usually gapes at the waist, goes past our belly buttons, bunches at the crotch and hips and just has a poor fit. I have many tall friends who complain that “long” lengths are often not long enough, and if they are they are usually too short in the rise and too slim in the hip area. Again, a tall woman is usually not just an average sized woman with longer legs… For tall and short women, other garments are also an issue. Jackets are the worst – not only are sleeve lengths wrong, so are the widths of shoulders and where the jacket is supposed to nip in at the waist. Petite women often look as though they are playing dress-up in their mother’s closets and tall women always look stuffed and uncomfortable in shrunken pieces. Dresses bunch at the waist on petite women, and often are an indecent length for tall ladies. Well one of my favorite budget-friendly retailers has seen the light… and the fact that not all women have the same size torsos. Old Navy has come to the rescue with their new Petite and Tall lines for Women sizes 0-20! The new lines have many pieces from their standard size line, just cut to fit a tall or petite woman. I had to check it out for myself. Since I am pregnant, I knew I wouldn’t be able to accurately test out the petite cuts of dresses and shirts. However I knew with a belly band I would be able to see how a pair of trousers fit. I decided to test the line with their Stretch Ponte Mid-Rise Wide-Leg Trouser (see left). Ponte knit is one of my very favorite fabrics – easy care, can dress up while feeling as comfy as a pair of yoga pants, keeps its shape. I own a jacket of black ponte fabric and was thinking this could make a nice casual suit. Also a true test of a proper petite fit are how the pockets lie on the frame – these pants have side slash pockets and I wanted to see if they would gap, if they would be at a place that would be comfortable to actually use, and if they were fashioned well to lie flat. As always, the order arrived from Old Navy promptly, well packaged without extra paper and stuffing. The pants were a medium weight of ponte fabric, unlined, acetate pocket linings, simple invisible seaming. Closure of a zipper, hidden button and two hooks for the waistband (which I love because it gives a very smooth flush finish under trim knit tops). On, the pants really do fit like a true petite! The rise was shorter than regular trousers, hit just below the belly button, laid smooth over the bum and crotch. The length was perfect for my 5’3” frame with a kitten heel. And the pockets? Even with my belly bump they were smooth. They arrived basted shut (front and back pockets) which helped the pant come shipped smooth and then wear smooth. The pants are machine washable; I washed them on the gentle cycle and had them hang to dry. This is how I clean my other ponte garments; it helps maintain good texture of the knit and the rich black color. After washing, the pants looked exactly the same. They didn’t pill, didn’t fade, didn’t stretch out. I compared them to a $65 pair of ponte pants from a different company and they looked to be of equal quality fabric, and equal construction. Oh my goodness, budget-friendly petite clothing that is truly fit for a petite woman? Old Navy has produced Fashion Nirvana! Old Navy’s Tall line is made specifically for women over 5’10”. There is an extra half-inch in the shoulders, longer sleeves, longer length in tops, lower waist position for tops and dresses, a nice longer rise, a full 36” inseam, and proper shaping to fit a woman’s figure. Old Navy’s Petite line is specifically for women under 5’4”. The garments have narrowed shoulders and higher arm openings (yay for properly covered bras!). Sleeves are shorter, hips and waist are more narrow than the classic, fit, pieces have a shorter rise and there’s a lovely 29.5” inseam for truly petite ladies. The Old Navy Petite and Tall lines are available exclusively online. You can see the ponte pants on me at my other blog, My Wardrobe Today. Do know they don't fit as usual due to being 26 weeks pregnant. :)

Great for Tim Gunn, Not For You

I love Project Runway, it’s one of the only things I DVR even though I catch it when it airs. I adore Tim Gunn on the show – he is a straight shooter, but does it with class and poise. “Make it Work” This is Gunn’s catchphrase, and an appropriate one for designers on a budget and a time crunch. Make do with what you have on hand, and make it the best possible. This is NOT a great catchphrase for your own wardrobe. I utterly despise those fashion shows and magazine articles that tell you how to shop from your own wardrobe. Take a stretched out old cardigan and pair with a skinny belt and it’s suddenly chic with a pencil skirt. Take that crepe jacket from your interview suit and pair with a silk cami and jeans and suddenly it’s perfect for a night on the town. Belt that which is too large, layer over that which is too small, and make those highwater trousers seem chic and trés Audrey Hepburn with a pair of ballet flats. Come on ladies, let’s stop fooling ourselves. These “closet shopping” creations NEVER look that chic. They don’t even look good on the six-foot tall size 2 model, how are they going to look flattering on your real, feminine form? If you have to make excuses for something in your closet, it doesn’t deserve to be there. If you are making excuses before you leave the fitting room, DO NOT PURCHASE IT! I don’t care if it’s on super duper clearance for $2.99, if it doesn’t fit well, doesn’t flatter your shape, doesn’t work with your personal sense of style or feel good on the body… it’s not worth it. That money can go towards a coffee drink, and all those “great deals” you have purchased and never loved could add up to one highly coveted nice item that gets worn on a weekly basis. So let’s discuss those “make it work” pieces in your current closet. These are the pants that do weird things in the crotch, are not quite long enough for anything but your Old Navy flip flops, and have a strange texture that not only catches the light like a disco ball but also collects lint better than Velcro. Another may be that white shirt that is so sheer you can see the stitching on your nude-colored tee shirt bra and even that mole on your shoulder. How about that sweater that your aunt gave you for Christmas last year? Yes, it’s from an expensive store and a coveted brand, but it’s a bit itchy, you don’t adore the color and it’s not really your style. And let’s include that suit you feel you need to keep just in case your dream job calls you up tomorrow to schedule an interview. It’s a size too small, is a bit more conservative than your usual style and you have never been able to find a decent blouse that compliments the color and style of the suit. Get rid of them all. They don’t work, and try as you may, you can’t make them work. I know I sound like a broken record, but you will be better off with very few items in your closet that fit and flatter, than a full closet of garments that take hours to even slightly “work”. Instead of staring at a bar full of clothing every morning, use that time to pare down to that which always works. Anything that requires mending, have repaired before next week (if you don’t know how to do it, it makes more sense to pay a dry cleaner or tailor to do it than have it sit in your closet and collect dust). Sleeves and trousers that are too long- they too can be fixed for a few dollars at your local dry cleaner or tailor. If it’s stained, Google for a stain removal solution appropriate to the fabric; if there is no hope for the item, get rid of it. Anything that doesn’t fit, doesn’t flatter, and just doesn’t make you feel good should be removed. It’s ridiculous to think that you can shop your own closet unassisted. Usually that which is not being worn is ill-fitting or a bad purchase in the first place. Instead, follow these tips towards having a workable, flattering, and enjoyable wardrobe: 1. Stop falling for the incredible bargain. I am not saying ignore the clearance racks – believe you me, I love them and most of my wardrobe comes from them. However, stay on track. If you need a black skirt, why are you going home with red cuffed capris? Do you even need or LIKE red cuffed capris? You’ll end up at home with pieces that don’t work with what you own, and you’ll be out the fundage for that still-needed black skirt. It’s only a bargain if it’s what you need and want and also at a reduced price. 2. Don’t make excuses in the fitting room. If you lose five pounds, if you purchase a different bra, if you get the pockets stitched closed, if you purchase a yellow sweater to match the print, if you wear some Spanx, if you get invited to a black tie wedding… then this item will be perfection! We have all done this, and this is why these cheap retailers who sell crappy knockoffs of knockoffs stay in business. If you only buy that which you love and loves you back, you will have less closet regrets and actually more money. Before taking something to the cash wrap, move in the garment. Walk in it, sit in it, stand up and see how it handled such movement. Find a three-way mirror and check out the back view. Ask a stranger what she thinks and don’t just listen to what she says but look at her eyes to see what she REALLY thinks. Finally, don’t purchase that which you cannot afford. A woman is far more stylish in the same pants every day and great posture from confidence, than a woman with an endless wardrobe and stress in her eyes from creditors on her back. 3. Shop smart so you never shop in a panic. How many times have you been at the mall the night before a holiday party or a wedding, searching for ANYTHING that will fit and be appropriate? How horrible of a feeling is that, dashing from shop to shop, and then dropping hard-earned money on something you don’t really like but desperately need? Having some basic wardrobe staples will prevent this situation from taking place. Having a simple black dress will work for an awards ceremony, a cocktail party, a wedding, a holiday party, formal night on a cruise, silent auction at the church and much much more. Have some versatile pieces like black trousers, simple skirts, a pair of pumps and a nice blouse or knit available for coffee with an old flame, a luncheon with the mayor, your first week at a new job. Shop when your calendar is light, when you can cruise the mall or Internet shops with ease and time. Have the space and ability to compare prices and fit, and take the item immediately to the tailor for any necessary alterations to make it utterly perfect for that unexpected last-minute event. 4. New doesn’t equal better. It’s so tempting to go shopping for that first date, for your high school reunion, a vacation. But here’s the thing: those you will see won’t know whether that dress is brand-spanking new or a decade old. If it fits, flatters and is in great condition… why do you need new? If you know you already own something good for an event, stick with what works. Consider spending more time on your hair, getting a new lipstick, or possibly a manicure or more expensive brow grooming to change your look and feel fresh. Rarely do we judge a woman by how current or trendy her clothes are; we see the whole package – how she is groomed, how the clothing fits her frame, how she accessorizes, how she pulls it all together. Often when you ask a stylish woman where she got a garment, she will admit she has had it in her closet for years. Quality, carefully chosen garments can be worn to your five, ten and fifteen year reunions without a single attendee realizing it is the same. Newness can come with an updated hair style, a current heel on your pumps, a switch in lipcolor; that sort of newness is far more chic than a once-worn dress gathering dust in your closet.

Ask Allie - Fighting That Office Chill

Allie: Do you have any suggestions about working in a freezing office and looking professional? Right now I'm wearing a heavy hoodie on top of a cardigan...and unless I have to go to a meeting, that's how it will be all day. I was thinking about a long sweater, but they vary widely...are they ever ok? Before I got pregnant and now LIKE having the office as an ice box, I was so feeling your pain. Offices seem to always be too cold or too warm and you always need to have some layers handy so you don’t get hypothermia while sitting in front of your computer. I have a pashmina at the office just for this purpose. I love it because it is lightweight, but since it is cashmere it keeps me just as warm as a heavier item. Being a shawl I can adjust where I need it – around the neck if I am wearing a v-neck top, over the shoulders, or even over the lap and legs when wearing a skirt. It also is small enough to tuck into my laptop bag if I am going to a client site that may be just as frigid. Sweater coats can be quite nice and professional looking. I have one I bought years ago at The Limited that is calf-length, a sturdy black cotton knit, mandarin collar and buttons just to the waistband. My old job used to call me Trinity when I wore it for it had a bit of a “Matrix” look to it. It is a thick enough knit to look smooth over lightweight knits and sweaters, and the refined knit and modern silhouette makes it even appropriate when I leave my office and venture down a hall to greet a client. The key to sweater coats is the weight (not super thin and not a chunky lumpy cable), and the silhouette (more like a jacket than a bathrobe). A lightweight sweater will look lumpy and strained over your other layers, a heavy cable or textured weave will look more like grandpa’s favorite than a stylish and professional garment. Wrap styles with a self-belt seem the easiest, but often times are the least flattering to a woman’s frame. They add the majority of bulk at the torso and hide the curves of a feminine frame. Many wrap styles also hit near the bottom of the rear end, making the back view look bigger than it really is. Your best bet is to find a cardigan that hits at the hips, or mid-thigh so it is long enough to show your shape. Black front-tie cardigan from Old Navy, maroon high-collar sweater coat from Lands End, red ribbed shawl cardigan from Banana Republic, charcoal marled cardigan from Calvin Klein Jeans.

Worth The Money – My Love Affair with Duo Boots

As I mentioned in a previous post, I would soon be providing you with a review of my newest boots from Duo – a company that specializes in all sizes of calf boots. I had purchased from them in the past and was highly impressed with the customer service and the quality of the product (as I type this I am wearing my Bern boots from them!). Last season I decided with a work bonus to splurge on another pair of boots made for my wide calves. I wanted a sleek and classic tall black leather pair that would look great with dresses and skirts. As with my order of the Berns, I entered my foot size (39) and my calf size (45 – yeah, I am so past the point of department store’s ideas of what an extended calf boot should be) and the style that seemed to fit my personal style. Less than two week later, a gorgeous pink-wrapped box was waiting for me at the post office (do note that orders to the US require signature – if you are not home it will go to your local post office. And from the post office you must be there with ID to sign - not your mom, your roommate, your husband. I have learned now to send the boots to my job where a receptionist is always available to sign). I opened it to find glossy, elegant, fabulous boots… that wouldn’t zip up past my ankle bone. What the heck? I held the boots closed and could see that they would fit around my calf bone, but just not from ankle bone to that point. I contacted Duo by email and received a response in less than 48 hours. The super helpful customer service agent was sorry the boots did not work, and suggested some styles that may be more flattering and fit better on my petite yet chunky legs. I had asked about two styles in my original email, she openly admitted one style would not fit my frame, the second would probably be good, but a third and different style (the Ravenna) is one of the most popular styles for women built like me. At the time, I decided to return the ill-fitting boots and wait until fall to get a pair. By then, they hay have other styles I like better, trends, may change, my calves may shrink overnight… A few weeks ago, I received the email that Duo was having free international shipping and I saw that as a sign and ordered the Ravenna boots. They arrived to my office… they were gorgeous, a classic look, well made. They zipped up past my ankle bone, but not much farther. Holding the leather closed, I could see that they would be plenty roomy in the calf muscle, but the rest of the leg was at least a full inch too thick. Frustrated, I send another email to Duo. Not even two hours later I receive a response: Thank you for your email. I have had a look at your blog and seen how pleased you were with your Bern boots, so I’m very sorry that you have had these sizing problems since. We have had feedback in previous seasons about needing more styles with more room in the lower calf area and mid-August we changed to our new 2008-2009 range. I have been trying on boots this afternoon to gauge the fit and there are 3 styles that I would recommend. The Macerata boots are a straight cut riding style in gorgeous quality leather which do not taper in too much at the ankle and might be a good fit for you in your calf size as they are generous all the way up the leg. The Potenza boots in black are more of a western style but they are coming up larger in the lower leg according to the feedback that we have had over the past month or so. Finally, the most generous boots that we have in the lower leg are the Imperia boots as there is lots of room above the ankle in these; even with the 1940s detailing they are still classic with a small heel and very wearable. If you still have concerns about the sizing, if you can provide me with the measurement of the lower calf area that is causing the problem as well as your upper calf measurement I would be happy to go and measure any other styles that you might be interested in. I look forward to hearing from you. Um, how often do you encounter such personalized, caring and detailed customer service from a company? The letter was longer, and mentioned that she visited my blog, saw the Bern boots on me and agreed they were a good fit, looked up the size of the Berns that I kept to ensure I re-ordered the right calf size, and even offered free shipping on the next pair that I ordered. This is why I return to Duo. I am so impressed with their dedication to their clients, the quality of their product, the variety of styles, and that they seem to really care about me, and not just my money. I haven’t chosen a replacement pair, but do know when I do… you will all get a full review of them!

Product Review – Bamboo U

I have a new favorite weekend tee, and it’s from the company Bamboo U. This is one of the softest, prettiest and silkiest tees I have ever worn; it washes great and holds color beautifully. The company is named Bamboo U because well… their fabulous tees are made from bamboo. Bamboo can be sourced to create clothing that is as comfortable and similar looking as your favorite cotton tee shirt, but has many more redeeming qualities: Bamboo fibers are quite silky and have a natural sheen, making a tee from bamboo look far more polished and elegant than your cotton shirt. It’s also very gentle to sensitive skin. A cross-section of bamboo fiber reveals micro-holes, allowing four times the absorption than cotton. This means it’s a natural alternative to all these sweat-wicking fabrics on the market. Bamboo contains a natural element known as "bamboo kun." This serves as a natural antibiotic, protecting one from germs as well as body odor (which is caused by bacteria). Bamboo is similar to silk in that it insulates the wearer in winter and keeps you cooler in the summer. Bamboo is porous which helps you stay cool. As for the environmental impact of bamboo, bamboo is a sustainable product. The plant has a natural antibacterial agent that means it does not require pesticides, insecticides or fertilizers to flourish, it can survive drought or flood conditions, it regenerates without need for replanting, and returns 30% more oxygen to the atmosphere than trees. Unlike synthetic products made for most athletic wear, bamboo is biodegradable. Shirts from Bamboo U are 70% bamboo and 30% organic cotton. They use natural water-based inks for their silk-screening and do a great job of limiting packaging and marketing materials – advertising their company without tearing down a bunch of trees in the process. I have washed my shirt three times, have line and machine dried it and each time it comes out looking like new and feeling just as soft. Interested in getting your own Bamboo U shirt? Check them out at myspace.com/bamboou or this article at Bio-Based News.

Ask Allie: Linen after Labor Day, Updating a Casual Wardrobe, Preventing the Muffin Top

Hi Allie: I just ordered a pair of linen pants in dark brown. I eyed them all summer, and when they went on clearance, I pounced. My question is: When should the linen be packed away? I'd like to wear them a few times before fall/winter. Also, I live in Texas, if the scorching heat makes a difference! -April Linen is not as much a summer fabric as it is a tropical fabric. It’s popular in the summer because of how well it keeps the body cool, and that is actually looks presentable when crushed and wrinkled. I may be very conservative to many in regard to when one should wear white and most summer fabrics (eyelet, seersucker, cotton gauze, gingham, madras), but linen is one that can transition a bit from season to season depending on where in the world you live. I have a pair of white linen trousers that have already moved up to the attic. However my olive green linen short-sleeved shift dress is still in the closet and in the Washington DC area, I believe it can still have a couple more weeks of life. I think a pair of brown trousers can transition as well. There isn’t going to be a snowstorm any time soon in Texas, and I doubt you are already packing up leather sandals for sturdy boots. Certain pieces of summer fabrics in more autumnal colors and silhouettes can equally survive the next several weeks. Brown, black, charcoal, navy, plum, dark red, olive green… these are autumnal colors that look great in tropical fabrics like linen. Paired with solid leather sandals or flats, quality knits and lightweight sweaters, a pair of brown linen pants can be quite nice in Texas all through October. Linen dresses can look more like fall with peeptoes in place of sandals, heavier wooden jewelry in place of delicate necklaces, possibly a belt or jacket over the piece to add some stability while still staying relatively cool. Post-Labor Day linen look from Sutton Studio for Bloomingdales. I have a question about rise in jeans. Is it true that if you have a poochy belly that at waist jeans are the way to go? I have been reading this lately in magazines as they say lower and mid rise sometimes makes a “muffin top” over the waistband of jeans. What are your thoughts? -Renee As a woman who has had a poochy belly since she was 16, I disagree with this thought. The problem is, women are not built like mannequins, and not all “pooches” are equal. I have found most women who have tummies usually have the most issue with that which is below the belly button. Childbirth, weight loss and gain ends up showing the most in the lower part of the tummy. By having a true-waist jean, you are less likely to have a “muffin top,” but actually having that zipper and extra fabric from pockets all in that already heavier area just adds more focus and thickness to a problem area. If you have an issue with your lower half, a good way to prevent the dreaded “muffin top” and not focus on the tummy is to get a jean that is just below the natural waist, and with a wide waistband that sits flat on the belly. A wider waistband (often more like a denim trouser or a novelty style of jeans) will be less likely to dig into soft flesh and will actually provide a mini-girdle to keep things more in place and smooth under tops. If your issue is with an all-over tummy (poochy from rob cage to groin), a true-waist jean may be a good choice. It will keep the whole torso smooth without cutting a line in the center (making that “muffin top”). Though many It Girls are running around town in high-waisted jeans and tightly-tucked fitted tops, a more classic and polished way to wear true-waist jeans is with an untucked shirt that glides over curves, or a shirt that is tucked in, slightly bloused out and paired with a belt through the jean loops. This jean from Lane Bryant has a wider waistband and minimal waist and pocket details which is flattering to a woman's tummy. Not only that, it has a secret slimming panel built into the jeans! Can you suggest a few pieces that I could pull off (casual) for work that won't break my budget? I am 6 feet tall and wear a size 12 to a 14. I love my jeans and T-shirts but I am literally bored to death with my clothes at this point. -Melinda If you have a very casual work environment, you will need some additions to my list of staples for every woman’s wardrobe. It’s possible to add a couple of basic and budget-friendly pieces that can quickly transform a current collection. - A pair of trousers in black or charcoal gray. Amazing how a scoop neck or v-neck tee can be gym wear with some yoga pants, but look quite polished with a proper pair of trousers. A pair that are a straight or boot cut, flat front, no front pockets (or a small coin pocket), unlined and in a fabric with at least 5% lycra means they will be comfortable, most likely able to be machine washed (though hang them to dry to keep them looking great), and versatile. Pair with basic sweaters, tees with a more feminine cut (slightly fitted, interesting necklines), and cotton shirts. - A pair of city boots. These are also called booties and ankle boots. It’s a boot that either has an elastic gusset or a zip up the side, a slight heel, and are usually of leather or microfiber. Look for a pair that is light on decoration (no perforations, variety of fabrics, studs, etc.) so it is versatile and will last more than a season. You can often find this style of boot at store’s clearance sales because it is in style year after year yet designers slightly modify the look each time. Sticking with a heel that is neither too skinny nor too chunky, a toe box that is not too round, pointy or square and a simple look will mean that even though they were at a bargain price, they will be a wardrobe staple for years to come. My suggestion is black because it goes well with denim, the above mentioned pants and can dress up a bit better than brown. - A great blazer or casual jacket. Nothing can jazz up a simple tee and jeans better than a great jacket. Again, this is an easy find on clearance racks at stores because it’s a staple for every season, just slightly changing in cut and fabric. Due to your height, it may often be hard to find a jacket that is long enough in the sleeves. If you can’t find the right length, ignore a classic length all together and go with a three-quarter or bracelet length sleeve. As for fabric, your best bet is a twill or canvas as that it will keep with the casual vibe, be easy to clean, and work year-round. - A necklace that can be a signature piece. Hit your local craft fair, jewelry boutique, or even mall kiosk and you can find some amazing creative necklace out there. You may be the delicate chain with pendant sort of woman, or feel best in a long strand of homemade clay beads. Bold metal, funky shells from the sea, or layers of turquoise… a necklace can take knits and denim to the next level with little effort. Best thing about a great necklace? You can wear it every single day of the week and no one questions you. As that this piece can be worn every day, don’t purchase unless you love it, it feels good on you, and the colors and style compliments your current collection. It’s easy to be sucked in by pretty baubles, but even $5 is too much spent if you never end up wearing the piece. If a necklace isn’t your thing, a similar concept can be had with earrings, a bracelet, a scarf or even a brooch. It all depends on your personal sense of style and what feels good! This is a great example of how a necklace can transform a simple top and jeans - look by New York & Company You may also wish to visit: The Staples For Every Woman's Wardrobe Wardrobe Hints for Warm Climates Unexpected "Staples" for a Summer (and beyond) Wardrobe From Allie's Mailbag...

Today Only - 30% off at Banana Republic!

Save today at Banana Republic! Offer valid only on Monday, Spetember 8, 2008. 30% off ENTIRE purchase at Banana Republic, and free shipping if you shop online. Promotional Code: HAPPY30 Please email me (address in sidebar) if you desire this coupon to use in-store; I will try to repond to all emails ASAP so you have it in time to have a happy shopping day! Offer valid September 8, 2008 from 12:00 AM ET to 11:59 PM ET at Banana Republic stores in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Offer valid on Banana Republic merchandise purchased online. Not valid at Banana Republic Factory Stores. Coupon valid for one-time use only and must be surrendered at time of purchase. Online code limited to one time use only. Not valid for cash or cash equivalent. Cannot be applied to previous purchases nor combined with any other offers or discounts including Gap Inc. employee discount. Qualifying amount applies to merchandise only, excluding Giftcards purchased, packaging, applicable taxes and shipping & handling charges. Returns and exchanges are subject to Banana Republic's return policy. Banana Republic is not responsible for lost or stolen offer cards. Offer is non-transferable. Excludes Monogram. Cashier Instructions: use discount code 893

Ask Allie - Fabrics that Compliment Knee High Boots

Reader Amber writes: What kind of dresses/skirts are appropriate with knee boots? Are you limited to heavy sweater dresses like this (see left), or is matte jersey (such as your previously posted LBD selections OK? Hi Amber: This is a great question, and I bet many others are wondering the same thing. I think knee-high boots can work with a variety of fabrics; it's less about the actual fabric than the cut of the dress. Matte jersey, cotton knits and even silk can work with knee-high boots in leather and suede if cut in the correct silhouette. The lighter weight the fabric, the more "sturdy" the silhouette needs to be to balance out a tall boot. If you are choosing matte jersey, finding a dress with an angular cut (shift dress or boxy style), or more girth (wrap dress, babydoll style with fuller skirt) can usually do the trick. Classic styles like a tee-shirt dress or wrap dress can work if they are low on frills and feminine touches. Strong details like wider self-belts and waistbands, smooth hems, v-neck, crew or boat necklines will balance out the substantial boot. For knits and silk, you want to balance out the delicate fabric with a more modern or angular silhouette. A feminine close-fitting dress from a lightweight fabric can make the most elegant of tall boots look trashy and out of place (hello Pretty Woman). Choosing an a-line or trapeeze silhouette, an empire waistband, or a layered style will compliment the study leather or suede on your bottom half. I often pair tall boots with baby-doll style dresses in cotton jersey, sheath dresses from lined suiting fabric or sturdy ponte knit, matte jersey wrap dresses with long sleeves and clean lines, and straight or a-line skirts with figure-skimming knit tops. Gray Merino Wool Belted dress from Semantiks, teal Sleeveless Knit Shift dress from Banana Republic, green matte jersey Tie-waist Wrap Style dress by Donna Morgan, black wool acetate Boat-neck Belted dress by Lauren by Ralph Lauren, gold A-line dress by Silhouettes. You may also wish to visit: The Not-So-Little Black Dress Updates to the Little Black Dress Reader Question: Summer Boots A Wide Calf Boot Update It's All About the Boots

NY Fashion Week from a Real Woman's Perspective

Many women hate fashion because they can't see it work for them. Not many of us are a size 00 and six feet tall (nor have an unlimited budget for couture and designer duds). Fashion is for the rich, the thin, the superficial, right? Wrong. One my favorite parts of the movie "The Devil Wears Prada" is when Miranda Priestly (the magazine editor) schools Andy on the color blue and fashion as a whole: Miranda Priestly: You go to your closet and you select out, oh I don't know, that lumpy blue sweater, for instance, because you're trying to tell the world that you take yourself too seriously to care about what you put on your back. But what you don't know is that that sweater is not just blue, it's not turquoise, it's not lapis, it's actually cerulean. You're also blithely unaware of the fact that in 2002, Oscar De La Renta did a collection of cerulean gowns. And then I think it was Yves St Laurent, wasn't it, who showed cerulean military jackets? I think we need a jacket here. And then cerulean quickly showed up in the collections of eight different designers. Then it filtered down through the department stores and then trickled on down into some tragic Casual Corner where you, no doubt, fished it out of some clearance bin. However, that blue represents millions of dollars and countless jobs and so it's sort of comical how you think that you've made a choice that exempts you from the fashion industry when, in fact, you're wearing the sweater that was selected for you by the people in this room. From a pile of stuff. Point of this quote (thank you IMDB) is that fashion DOES affect all of us, whether we care to admit it or not. To attempt to shun such a major industry because us square pegs do not fit into its round holes only does ourselves a disservice. My dear friend Sarah Conley of the blog StyleIT has worked in the fashion industry since her college days majoring in Apparel Studies at the University of Arkansas. Like most of us Americans, Sarah is not the shape of a supermodel, and doesn't have the income of one either. She has spent most of her career behind the keyboard of her Mac reporting on the latest trends, but always felt a bit self-conscious when at the tents of Bryant Park for New York Fashion Week. This year Sarah decided to get out from behind the laptop and document her experince at New York Fashion Week as a plus-sized woman. From September 3-12, she will be providing video and blog recaps of her experiences in the tents. When retailers got word of her project, they jumped at the chance at sponsoring her. She will be sporting fashions from great companies like Old Navy, Lane Bryant, Figleaves, IGIGI, Barefoot Tess, Silhouettes, b&lu and more. I am so thrilled for Sarah and cannot WAIT for these recaps! I encourage you to visit StyleIT and see her updates from the tents... and see for yourself that fashion CAN work for every woman! Sarah's introductory video: