Tuesday

I bought this dress as a final sale from Banana Republic.  I think it cost me something like $20.  I bought it while pregnant, thinking it would be the right size postpartum.  I got it... and realized it was too big.  It's an XL, even though I may be XL in some places, I obviously am not for this dress.  I think next time I may wear it with a belt.  If that doesn't look good, I will have to donate this to a taller, larger-boned friend.

But the dress is the most gorgeous shade of ultraviolet and a super soft merino.  And what a lovely floppy neck!  It's rainy and ucky out, and I feel just as cozy in this as I did this morning padding around in my pink leopard-print pajama pants!  With it are my black leather boots from Ros Hamerson, silver chain from Ralph Lauren, silver hoops and cuff.

I don't know if this happens to any other woman.  You put on your lipstick, and then you put it in your purse for touchups later in the day.  Then the next day you're rushing to get ready and you realize that because you have been putting your lip product in your bag all week, you now have no lipsticks or glosses in your makeup case!  Well this happened to me this morning, so you see a chalky pink pencil that I put on to help my Laura Mercier Pink Champagne adhere longer.  Pink Champagne was applied in the car once I parked at the Metro, before hopping on the train. 

As for the rest of my makeup, it's Estee Lauder Doublewear Light foundation, Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage concealer, Nars blush in Orgasm, Pop beauty shadow palette for brown eyes - the celadon on lids, the black in crease and along lash lines.  A bit of Avon Luxury liner in black, and Tarte's Lights, Camera, Lashes! mascara in black.

I have tried a ton of new products lately and have been quite the slacker on reviews.  However I do have to mention one product I have recently used that I adore.  For the past month I have been using the Olay Professional Pro-X Anti-Aging Starter Kit.  This kit has a night cream, eye cream and SPF 30 day moisturizer. 

I have been using it almost every night (yes, I must admit I sometimes pass out before taking off my makeup) and every morning and have seen a big change in my skin.  Compare my skin above to my skin here, a month prior.  You can see that the wrinkles in my forehead and around my eyes are less pronounced, my age spot on my cheek is a bit fainter, and even the little bumps I always have on my chin are clearning up.  I bet the change will be more obvious in another month.  I am known to have reactions to harsh chemicals and salycitic acid, but I haven't had a single reaction to this line and the eye cream doesn't irritate my allergy-prone, contacts-wearing eyes.

The kit isn't cheap, but it has been a month and I still have 1/3 of the day and eye creams and probably half of the night cream. This kit is worthy of repurchase in the full-size containers.

Going Green – The Diva Cup

I was tempted to not post about this because I felt it may be controversial. But then I wondered WHY it would be controversial. The audience of this blog is predominately women, and predominately women who are between the ages of 18 and 50. This means the majority of you reading this are having a monthly period. As that a post about periods may be relevant to more of you than say wide-calf boots or petite trousers, I have decided to proceed with this topic.

I have been a tampon sort of gal since I got my period at age 13. It was the summertime and I was on a swim team. I remember a big meet was that Saturday and I was freaking out because I couldn’t get a tampon in. My (male, cute) swim coach asked my mom what was up, as that I was one of the top 13 & 14 year old female swimmers on the team and they couldn’t have me miss the match. She had to explain that I couldn’t get in a tampon. My coach suggested these super slender plastic-applicator tampons, telling my mom that he "recommends them to all his female swimmers.” At the time I was so embarrassed I almost dropped the team. Now as an adult I think how embarrassed this young college guy must have been, dealing with all these hormonal preteens and becoming a tampon expert.

I moved on from the skinny pink plastic applicators to the basic cardboard applicators (cheaper and biodegradable). By high school I was a fan of o.b. tampons because they were so tiny (and didn’t have the noisy rustling wrapper), I could hide it in the palm of my hand when having to head to the girls room. No need for proclaiming to the entire class that I had my period (come on, any girl who headed to the bathroom with her purse was telling the whole world she has her Aunt Flo…).

Speaking of which, women don’t like to speak about their periods. We may use it to explain our grumpy behavior, but we don’t like to discuss period paraphernalia. Be you a tampon gal or a pad lady, you have to admit you are creating a lot of landfill waste each month. Not only that, but it’s waste that is… well a bit grody. Even if you use o.b. or cardboard-applicator tampons, there is still waste that is cleaned out of the sewage system and wrappers/applicators that go right into that trash can.

When researching ways to cut waste in 2009 without cutting comfort and convenience, I learned about the Diva Cup. The DivaCup is a latex, BPA and plastic-free non-absorbent menstrual cup that collects menstrual flow. It is inserted in the vagina and sits at the lower base of the vaginal canal (not up near your cervix). It is worn internally, yet because it is soft and smooth, it cannot be felt nor will it leak when inserted properly. It can be worn for up to 12 hours at a time (so it’s great for overnight), and because it doesn’t absorb like tampons, there isn’t such a risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome. It can be worn for any activity including swimming.

From the Diva Cup Web site:

Women, on average, experience a lifetime menstruation span of 41 years (11-52). From use of disposable feminine hygiene, an estimated 12 billion sanitary pads and 7 billion tampons are dumped into the North American environment each year (1998). More than 170,000 tampon applicators were collected along U.S. coastal areas between 1998 and 1999. Our revolutionary, reusable product is a modern, viable alternative to disposable tampons and pads.

Most tampons and pads contain surfactants, adhesives and additives. In addition, most pads contain polyethylene plastic whose production is a pollutant. Also, dioxin, a known carcinogen, is a by-product of the bleaching process of tampons containing rayon. In landfills, many of these substances can leach into the environment (groundwater, streams and lakes) causing serious pollution and health concerns.

Although not all women can afford to purchase an energy-efficient hybrid car or convert their home to solar energy, they can reduce dangerous landfill waste by choosing to use a reusable, silicone menstrual cup. When considering the pollution and volume of waste that is inherent in the use of disposable tampons and pads, replacing one’s feminine hygiene with The DivaCup makes good environmental sense and manifests in a positive eco-footprint every month!

Because many women have become accustom to purchasing disposable feminine hygiene products, they consider the expenditure “necessary”. Most women spend $150-200 U.S. a year on disposable tampons and pads. The purchase of The DivaCup results in significant savings. The cost of The DivaCup is equivalent to a moderately-priced blouse or dinner out, yet saves you money!

Considering all this, I figured it wouldn’t hurt to try out the Diva Cup. I got mine from drugstore.com, because they offer free shipping for purchases over $50 and you get cash back with ebates. This made the DivaCup a hair over $30 – I have spent that much on a stupid dress from Target that has only been worn once before it fell apart.

Since I was pregnant and breast feeding, I didn’t have a chance to use a DivaCup until recently. I tried it out this past cycle… and I have to say I am a convert. I chose Size 2 because I am over 30 and had a child. Being an ex-o.b. user I am not one to be skeeved out by her body. I found the DivaCup very easy to insert, especially when still wet from washing it. Speaking of washing, the emptying/cleaning of the DivaCup is not as grody as you may imagine. When at home, it’s easy to rinse out and re-insert. At work or away from home, you can wash your hands, remove it, wipe it out with some toilet paper and re-insert without having to leave the confines of your stall. The thing is the DivaCup holds so much, most women can go an entire workday without having to empty it. I really haven’t felt it at all – it is more comfortable than a tampon, holds more than even a super tampon, and is more reliable (never have had a leak, even overnight). Also I personally find the measuring marks fascinating – when using pads or tampons you really don’t know how much flow you have.

And no, I didn’t get paid by DivaCup, and I didn’t get a free DivaCup from this company. I chose to write about this because I don’t think a lot of women know about menstrual cups, and are a bit concerned about them – they may leak, they may hurt, they may be gross or a PITA. I know there are many other products on the market that work in essentially the same manner, but I chose the DivaCup because it was so easily accessible at local stores and online shops.

I think the DivaCup is such an easy way to make a difference with the environment while being kind to your body and not adding burden or discomfort to your life!

Friday through Sunday

Last Friday I wore my fuzzy gray swing cardigan from Kenzie, a black ribbed tank from Caslon, new dark Long and Leans from Gap, black city boots and big chunky silver jewelry. 

I didn't take a picture.  Emerson woke up about four times the night prior and I was lucky to be at work on time that day and to remember to put on pants. :)

However here is Emerson from Friday evening.  I couldn't pass up taking a picture of the crazy outfit my husband chose for her.  And she seems to like my necklace as much as I do!

There is nothing better than coming home from a long day at work and get such a reception...

The weekend was pretty chill.  Saturday was my best friend's birthday so we went to her house for some wine, pizza and friendship.  Sunday we had my sister over for brunch but spent most of the rest of the day sleeping (think E is cutting another tooth).

Thursday

Black jersey wrap dress from Talbots, black tall boots from Ros Hamerson, silver chain from Ralph Lauren, silver earrings from Treehouse, my silver cuff and chain with wedding band (put on after photo).

Hair is MUCH happier on Day 2, and obviously so am I.  By the way, this lipstick is Pink Chanpagne by Laura Mercier, and I utterly adore it.  I am on a big Laura Mercier kick recently - everything I purchase from the line I love.  This lipstick is the perfect pinky brown nudish color for me, and it goes on smoothly, has no weird smell or taste and stays on pretty well without drying out!

Tuesday and Wednesday

Tuesday doesn't have pictures.  Emerson is going through what I think is a growth spurt and isn't sleeping well.  On top of that, I had to be at work at 7am.  The combo doesn't make for good photo ops...  I wore my blackberry dolman-sleeved tunic sweater from Ann Taylor Loft with dark Long & Lean jeans from Gap and my black city boots.  Very nondescript.

Wednesday was more purple and black...

Black pants from New York & Company, blackberry deep v-neck sweater from Philosophy (worn a lot right after E was born), black cami from Banana Republic, black city boots from David Tate.  Silver cuff, hoops and chain with wedding band (seriously, I am now only 9 pounds heavier than I was before I got pregnant and the wedding set STILL does not fit.  I need to get it resized).

This is a terrible face, but somehow it was the only one I captured that was not blurry as I dashed out the door:

That's the face I make when I see people wearing high-waisted tapered faded jeans with fanny packs.

Anyway, hair is BEGGING me to get it cut and colored, maybe that is why I was making such a face.  This photo was after straightening, smoothing, curling, polishing and primping.  Really sad.  It's just hard because this month I had to buy a plane ticket and a wedding gift, we had to get some equipment for my husband's business and some stuff for Emerson.  However I think I will have to at least get a cut before November.  I don't have enough time in the morning to deal with hair drama! :)

Monday

New pants!  These were originally $110 but on sale for $49.50 at Ann Taylor.  They are charcoal with a gray faint stripe on them and the sort of fabric that can be worn year-round.  Nice flat waist with a tab waistband so it doesn't dig, it doesn't roll, it doesn't highlight a muffin top.  Hurrah.  With it is my orange cotton scoopneck sweater from Lands End, a necklace from New York and Company (I removed superflous chains to make the necklace more simple/expensive looking), black city boots from David Tate, silver hoops and cuff.

My hair was washed and conditioned the night prior.  I was going to take a shower, but the shower is next to Emerson's room and she has been a light sleeper lately.  I opened the door to the linen closet to get a towel and I heard her squeak in her sleep.  Our master bathroom has a leak when we use the shower and well... we just haven't had time to figure it out (we think it just needs a recaulking).  So I washed my hair under the faucet of the master bathtub, and then the body in a bath.  The humidity of the bath always affects the final look of my hair when I air dry.  I added some Frederic Fekkai Luscious Curls, scrunched and went to bed. 

Come AM, it was a bit strange in places and lovely in others so I used the curling iron on the bad parts.  Sort of beachy casual...

Makeup is Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage, Estee Lauder Double Wear Light foundation and lipstick in Wild Ginger and shadow in... some colors from a gift with purchase palette, Nars blush in Orgasm, Body Shop shadow in Soft Black used as liner, Tarte Lash Hugger mascara.  Yep, I have switched to my winter color of foundation.  The Nutritious foundation is Intensity 3.0 which is a bit dark now for my sun-starved skin!

She Takes After Her Mom...

She understands that a woman can be a feminist...

And still love beauty and fashion!

Feminist tee shirt available at CafePress

The Staples for Every Woman’s Wardrobe – Updated for the Next Decade

I originally wrote my staples for a woman’s wardrobe almost a decade ago, and finally put it on a blog almost five years ago. I have been a size 4 and a size 16 and no matter my job or lifestyle, these staples were always essentials in my wardrobe. Knowing many women over the years - be they clients of mine when I was a stylist, friends or family – these simple items worked on virtually all of them, regardless of their age, their figure or their lifestyle.

Fashion experts will toss around catchphrases like “wardrobe classic,” “fashion essential” or “investment piece” all the time, but it rarely holds true. A white shirt may seem classic, but if you are one of the lucky few women who looks good in white and a button-down, you will find that either the cut of the collar will look dated or the cotton will yellow before a decade is through. Pencil skirts have been in style for decades but the actual silhouette of the skirt does change from season to season.

It also is hard to find a garment that not only stays stylish from year to year, but also flatters your ever changing figure. Just as you need to be refit for bras every year because your bustline changes, as does the rest of your body. You may have remained a perfect Size 6 since your senior year of high school, but with age, life events and activity, different parts of you will spread, will sag or will become more firm.

We may feel that we purchase classics, but five years later these simple pieces just may not seem as useful or flattering as they once did. I always suggest that people reassess their wardrobe each season – replace that which has not held up, donate that which is no longer flattering and fill any “holes” in your closet (need another pair of black pants, want to get a cardigan to update a dress, etc.).

Well it is time to reassess my original list of wardrobe essentials. As we head towards a new decade, what is still relevant and what needs to be updated for the times?

Here’s a recap of the list from 2005:
1. Black Tailored Pantsuit in Seasonless Fabric
2. Black Seasonless Trousers
3. Jeans
4. Dressy Jeans
5. Black Heeled Boots
6. Black Leather Pumps
7. Not so Little Black Dress
8. Silver Hoop Earrings
9. Black or Grey Merino V-neck Sweater
10. Trendy Skirt
11. Trendy Jacket/Blazer
12. Slim V-neck Sweater in Signature Color
13. Signature Accessory
14. Sparkly Evening Shell or Top
15. The Perfect Tee – or Two
16. Well-fitting Wool Winter Coat
17. Great Fitting Bras
18. Panty Line-free Underwear
19. Pashmina or Wrap
20. Clutch Purse
21. Daily Purse
22. Sexy Shoes that Can Be Worn for at Least Five Hours
23. Sunglasses

So, what is still a classic? What could be revamped for the new decade? What is totally passé?

1. Black Tailored Pantsuit in Seasonless Fabric. When I wrote this list, I found a black pantsuit essential, and had one in my closet at all times since my junior year of college. I may have worked retail, creative, corporate but always found a use for a black suit. I would pair it with a sparkly top for a cocktail party, was so relieved to know it was ready in my closet for an unexpected interview or client meeting. If I was visiting a house of worship or a daytime event, I knew the black suit would usually work with a silk blouse or fine knit shell. I would use the suit as separates.

I currently do not have a black suit in my wardrobe. I have been at my current job for two years and have only had ONE occasion where a suit could be useful, and I was able to wear a dress and closed-toed shoes and looked completely appropriate. When I speak to many women my age, they say that they do not own a suit. Many find suits to be stuffy, to be uncomfortable, to evoke images of lawyers and politicians.

The thing is… now that I do not own a suit, I find so many times when it would be useful and a perfect choice. That work situation – yes I looked appropriate in a black wrap dress and pumps, but a suit would have made me look more like a manager and less like a subordinate. The room was cold and it was a hot summer day – a suit would have been great – throw the suit over my arm as I walked to the conference, slip on the jacket when I feel the chill of the A/C. As for other situations, a black suit would have been great for my friends’ daytime wedding. They married outside in a garden and had the reception at an elegant restaurant. If I wore a sleeveless or short-sleeved blouse, I would have been comfortable at the outdoor portion, but nicely covered for the indoor reception. I had my daughter with me and placed her in a baby carrier. Wearing a baby with a dress isn’t the best look – the carrier hikes up the skirt, yanks open the neckline and armholes and a dress is never the best attire when crawling after an active baby. A suit would have given me just as much polish with more coverage and moveability. I will be speaking in front of an audience in November, and it’s not work related. I really could wear anything I desire, but a suit gives one the air of authority and competence and provides a bit of personal armor for a time when I will most likely be nervous. And the Le Smoking is not going out of fashion any time soon – a black suit with a silk camisole is always chic and always a great choice for that holiday gala, evening wedding or fancy date.

A black suit does not have to be dowdy, and I really discourage you from purchasing one that has too conservative, masculine or boxy of a shape. Single breasted, notch collar, a seasonless fabric with nice drape, a silhouette that skims your curves, a pant leg that can work with loafers or kitten heels. This will ensure such a suit can move from day to evening yet still look polished, classic, elegant.

2. Black Seasonless Trousers. I don’t think this needs to be explained. Many people are anti-black in a wardrobe and I respect that; however when you are new to building a wardrobe, black is a great neutral that can dress up, dress down, work with most any color, match shoes with ease and hide a multitude of sins (figure flaws or that dribble of salad dressing at lunch).

I must admit I haven’t shopped in an Express in years, but I do know such pants can be found in most every shop in your local mall. I recently acquired a great pair from New York and Company for a song, and have a pair I bought at Ann Taylor a few seasons ago that are still in heavy rotation in my wardrobe.

As for silhouette – no need to stick with bootcut, though this is still a cut that is flattering to those with curves and those who are petite. Straight cuts are also a great choice – you are looking for a flat front, a waistband that becomes invisible under knits, a leg opening that works with boots or with heels. The skinny trouser is currently all the rage and it is quite cute with the right top and figure, but it is not a wardrobe staple. You need a simple pair of black pants that will work for work, for play, for romance, for business and everything in between. A flat, straight or slightly bootcut trouser will be your best bet.

3 and 4. Jeans, Jeans, Jeans. When this was written, jeans were a top priority in any fashionable woman’s wardrobe and they would pay out the nose for them. No one blinked an eye when gossip rags would state that an It Girl paid upwards of $500 for a pair of dungarees. Brands like True Religion, Seven, Paper Denim and Cloth and Hogan were brands as familiar as Marc Jacobs and Chloe. It was important to have a certain look to your jeans, no matter your budget.

Luckily the tides have changed and it is no longer expected to own jeans that cost as much as a month’s rent. Those It Girls are now often seen in classic Levi’s or distressed pairs from a vintage store. This doesn’t mean everyone should run out and purchase a pair of stovepipes or boyfriend jeans, but it means that there are more options out there than tacky, over-embellished knockoffs of chi chi brands.

The style is the same – keep them dark, keep them crisp, keep them free of adornment. The jeans-buying process can be more stressful and exhausting than the purchase of anything in your wardrobe. But if you keep at it and find denim nirvana, it is totally worth it. Great jeans can make you look taller, slimmer, firmer and more stylish.

5 and 6. Black Leather Shoes. Oh gosh, the emails I receive about shoes! How dare I encourage women to purchase heels, how dare I mention an animal-based product, why only black and why not brown?

First to all of you - I am not telling people how to dress. This site, and these posts are advice for those who desire it. I believe women should dress in a manner that makes them feel good and in clothes that garner them the respect and admiration that they deserve. If you feel that your current wardrobe achieves that, kudos to you. You may stop reading. For the rest…

Heels change a woman’s posture - it pulls back her shoulders, lifts her bottom, tightens her calves. It changes her walk and makes her look taller and leaner. Society sees heels as the female equivalent of a suit and tie – a wardrobe addition that may not necessarily be comfortable but adds a level of formality to attire. And a low heel is actually more comfortable and healthy for the foot than a flat.

Black is chosen because this wardrobe list is based off of black. Black can go from day to night and from season to season more easily than any other color of footwear. Black isn’t as hard to match with other blacks as say brown or tan. And leather is chosen because leather can be polished, repaired, dressed up or down. Leather lasts longer because it can breathe and can be maintained. If you are vegan or don’t believe in leather, there are great alternatives in faux leather and microfiber. However these alternatives are less likely to last in your wardrobe (they crack, stain, stretch out and stink) and they often aren’t as versatile.

The cut is the same – very classic, not overly pointy, tall, round, chunky, etc. Keep it simple and it will stay stylish for far longer.

7. The Black Dress. I have written about this piece many times. I believe it still holds true. I understand some religions frown on wearing black for weddings and other occasions – before you wear black to a religious event, do ask the host or someone familiar with the family’s culture what is appropriate. However many events (including most church weddings) will find a black dress to be completely appropriate and not at all somber. Tone is made with how you wear black, not the color itself.

8. Silver Hoop Earrings. Again, many criticize this choice, but it is a simple way for the accessories-shy person to branch out and jazz up an outfit. If you have feelings that another earring choice is more stylish/cool/flattering/appropriate, you probably don’t need this list.

9. Black or Gray Merino V-neck Sweater. Okay, it doesn’t HAVE to be a v-neck. There are some lovely round necks out there. The thing is, some round necks are too wide, too deep, too high. Square necks are not flattering on many figures, and crewnecks are not doing favors to any woman with a short neck, thick neck, large chest, broad shoulders or soft arms. V-necks are always available, v-necks don’t really go out of style, v-necks layer nicely with button-downs, shells or camisoles, and v-necks flatter the female figure.

10. Trendy Skirt, 11. Trendy Jacket, 12. Sweater in Signature Color, and 13. Signature Accessory. Ah, another piece I no longer have in my wardrobe. Well, let me be truthful – there are about six lovely skirts in my closet but none of them fit my postpartum body. I have yet to purchase a new skirt because I can’t find a silhouette that will change with this ever-changing body, fit my personal sense of style and flatter. And yet, I have survived the past nine months of existence.

Same holds true for the trendy jacket. I am still nursing, and because of it I still have nursing-sized breasts. Jackets that fit my bust do not usually fit my waist and shoulders. I could tailor, but since my body is constantly changing that which fits like a glove one month will be utterly wrong the next. So I have held off.

Some suggestions I made aren’t necessarily stylish any more – I have since donated that denim blazer and even though you may love animal prints, a leopard-spotted pencil skirt may be downright tacky on some people.

So does that mean one does not NEED a trendy skirt or jacket? In this case, I say yes... but only under the condition that you have an alternative. Woman cannot live on wardrobe basics alone. If you swim in a sea of black pants and solid v-neck tops in neutral tones, you are losing your identity. Items like trendy skirts, statement necklaces and funky blazers bring YOU into your wardrobe. If you are using this list to build from scratch, then I say these items are a must-have. For help with finding your personal style check out these posts:
How to Look Rich
How Does One Get the Polished Look?
Age is But a Number

14. Evening Top. Those who say they don’t need a top like this are often those who are dressed inappropriately for an event. I see you women – you in the oxford and chinos at a wedding, in a cotton sundress at your company’s holiday party at the hotel ballroom, in a dowdy suit at your nephew’s Bar Mitzvah. You are the women who frantically run to the mall three hours before your blind date and grab the first printed sequin-embellished polyester knit top you find on the racks.

So, you may only wear this top once a year at most. You don’t date, you don’t go to nightclubs or bars with your girl friends, you don’t have a social calendar full of cocktail parties and gala events. That’s okay and totally normal. But occasionally… I bet this top would be a better choice than what you pull from your closet.

That dark red silk top I mention in the original post? Yep, I am still wearing it. Last May I was the officiant at a dear friend’s wedding. For the ceremony I wore my black pantsuit and under I wore this cranberry silk top. After the recessional, I removed the jacket and added some darker lipgloss and was ready to hit the dance floor with the other guests. Earlier that year, I was invited to the theater with a group of friends. I wasn’t sure how formal everyone else was going to dress – in DC people will wear full-length gowns or jeans to the theater. I decided to wear this red silk blouse with wide legged black drapey trousers, black jet bead necklace and some strappy silk heels. This outfit was perfect for dinner before, was comfortable when seated in the theater, and worked when we decided to grab some cocktails at a bar after the show. I have worn the top to holiday parties at hotels and studio apartments, on dates with my husband at chain restaurants and romantic little bistros. You will be surprised how many times a sparkly top can fit into your current life.

15. The Perfect Tee. I think this is a given for all women, regardless of lifestyle. Donate all those faded, stretched-out, oversized, undersized tees and grab a couple that really look good and make you feel good.

One thing that has changed a bit – styles have become more refined over the past couple of years. In 2005 a stylish woman could easily wear a fitted tee or tank with a summer skirt and sandals and look polished. These days, you need a bit more effort. These tees are not replacements for merino sweaters in that they are as professional or formal. They are still great wardrobe staples to wear on weekends, under jackets, with casual skirts and jeans and trousers, they just have taken a backseat to more refined fabrics in regard to current style.

16. Well-fitting Wool Winter Coat. So you live in Florida, or Thailand, or Guam. You really don’t need a wool coat. If so, please disregard. However if you live somewhere that requires a coat, it’s a wise choice to invest in a well-fitting wool one. Add Thinsulate lining, a pashmina at your throat, gloves and a hat and you can brave even the coldest climates when dashing from car to destination.

For those in the Northwest and colder parts of the globe – keep your puffers. I don’t want anyone to catch hypothermia. This coat is a coat for the days when a puffer isn’t required, and when you do need to look more polished (evening affair, job interview, etc.).

17. Great Fitting Bras and 18. Panty Line-free Underwear. I would think this is a given but as I walk the streets of this great country, I see that it is not. Please ladies, do yourself a favor and get a professional to fit you for bras, and check out your back view in a full-length mirror. Who care what you spend on the rest of your wardrobe if you ruin the line and look with your undergarments.

19. Pashmina. If you don’t have one, go get one. They always have them at a great price at discount marts like Filene’s Basement and TJ Maxx. You will find so many uses for it. Right now I have one at work for chilly days, and I wear my other ones all the time when there’s a slight breeze, in place of winter scarves and as a shawl with my dresses.

20. Clutch Purse. Your regular daily handbag is NOT appropriate with a cocktail dress, even if it is of black leather. Just as with the sparkly top, if you purchase quality and a classic style, you won’t need more than one and it will be okay if you only use it once a year.

Just this past weekend I went out for my friend’s bachelorette party. We went to dinner and then bar hopping. I wore a black top, black pants, black heels and then to add to the look, a printed clutch. The clutch transformed these wardrobe basics. I had worn this same ensemble to work and to a more casual group gathering. What brought this to Festive Evening status were the accessories, and the clutch was the cherry on top.

21. Daily Purse. Your purse and your hair are the two accessories you wear pretty much every day. Spend money wisely – keep these items well cared for, maintained, current and ensure they are flattering to you and your lifestyle. I know a purse is a given – it’s not so much having a purse but what purse you have.

22. Sexy Shoes. I don’t think this wardrobe staple has become passé or will any time soon.

And yes, I am still rocking those Pucci-printed heels I mentioned in the original post. In fact I loaned them to a friend and she also received tons of compliments on them.

23. Sunglasses. Also a classic. Trends come and go, so if you want to be the height of fashion with your sunglasses, I don’t recommend spending an arm and a leg. Classic styles like aviators and large black plastic frames can be found at any pricepoint.

As you see, this list hasn’t really dated all that much. The examples may look at bit 2005 come 2012, but the concepts will most likely hold true. Get your inspiration from catalogs and shop windows; subscribe to one fashion magazine so you are still hip to the current trends in accessories, colors and silhouettes. And always, be true to yourself. One who copies is never stylish. This list is a platform, a place to start on your journey to personal style. As you become more confident with yourself and your wardrobe choices, you may see that a few of these staples are pushed to the back of your closet. That’s okay, not every woman or her life is the same. But I hope this list can get you on track and help you gain confidence and along the way, you find your personal style.

Wednesday

Today was an early morning so the pictures are meh, the makeup is meh, the outfit and makeup are pretty basic.

My shoes were downstairs - I didn't want to put them on upstairs and possibly wake my husband (poor guy was still asleep when I took this pic - you can even see Ruckus still asleep in the background).  But I wore my black David Tate city boots.  Off-white jeans from Ann Taylor and black merino turtleneck from Ann Taylor as well.  Silver cuff from Ann Koplik Designs.

My hair was washed and conditioned, I added some L'Oreal EverPure Frizz serum and Bumble and bumble Styling Creme while wet, and dried straight with a round brush.  Makeup is Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage, Nars blush in Orgasm, Tarte Lash Hugger Mascara and CARGO Plantlove Botanical Lipstick in Muir Woods.

I am knee-deep in a Webconference and in desperate need of caffeine.  Luckily we will have a break soon so I can get my fix. :)

Tuesday

Anyone recognize this dress???

Yeah baby, it's true what they say - nine months on, nine months off!  Granted, I am not exactly back to my pre-baby weight and the body is no where the same shape it was, but many of my pre-pregnancy clothes are fitting again!  I remember putting on this dress a couple weeks after Emerson was born.  I knew it would be tighter, but was thinking I could maybe sport it with jeans like I did back when I was in my second trimester.  It was so tight, it was cutting off the circulation on my arms and was super snug around the neck.  I put it on, and I cried.  There was no point in trying Spanx with it - the body looked ridiculous.

This weekend I went up in the attic to get Emerson's 12-18 month clothes and I saw the box that had these dresses (also have in dark red) and figured, hey might as well bring it down, maybe now I could sport it with jeans or something.  I washed it, hung it to dry and put it on this morning and eureka, it fits!

So anyway I am wearing a black merino dress from Banana Republic, black tights from Spanx (Tight End Tights), black tall boots from Ros Hamerson, silver necklace from Ann Taylor, silver cuff bracelet.

There is no picture of my face because... I forgot.  And now I have an office mate so I can't very easily shoot a picture of myself at my desk and not look like a crazy woman.  But believe me when I say that my hair is next day, large sections in a curling iron and made fluffy with some Elnett.  I did a smoky eye with a soft pink lip and I think I look pretty fab.

Wish the old pants fit, but hey... I'll take what I can get from the stash in the attic!

My New Purse

I usually purchase a new bag a year.  Most of the time I get them on eBay so I can get thye style and quality I desire at a price I can stomach.  My last purse was this baby from Junior Drake.  The two prior were from Banana Republic.

The Junior Drake purse got paint on it from the remodel (argh!) and I could never get it off without ruining the finish.  It also doesn't have a long strap so I can't put it over my shoulder along with another bag or when I am wearing a coat.  Not too good if you are also carrying a baby.  I was using my chalk-colored purse from Banana Republic but it was getting dingy and really... chalk is a fancy word for white and I hated carrying a white purse this late in the season.  My previous Banana Rpeublic bag was a tumbled brown leather and a wonderful shape, but one of my bottles of milk that I had pumped at work exploded in it during a commute home and now it is destroyed. 

So it was time for a new bag.

I wanted something that would go with brown as well as black, something that had specific pockets where I could store my cell, my SmartTrip card for the Metro, hang my keys so they could easily be reached.  I wanted a bag that I could carry in my hand, in the crook of my elbow or over my arm even with a bulky winter coat.  I wanted a bag that was not from an obvious designer or brand, but didn't look cheap and hokey.  It also had to be less than $200.

This is what I decided on:

(yes this picture was taken in a fitting room at Ann Taylor)

This is the large foldover hobo from Fossil in grey leather.  My sister says that it is a brown-tinged grey, and it may be but it is definitely not brown and not black.  The hardware is brass, but very subtle so it doesn't clash with silver.  There is the front pocket which has a magnetic closure, a back slash pocket and an interior pocket with a zipper (from which I clip my keys).  Big enough that this bag looks sloughy while holding two full cosmetic bags, a wallet, a camera, a cell, and a book; yet not so big it looks like a bed pillow under my arm.  I don't usually use the long strap, but I find it useful when carrying Emerson.  When put across the body I can still easily access the pockets with one hand.

So this is what I am currently wearing.  I didn't like it at first but it has really grown on me and I love how it is very subtle and not an obvious style, trend or season.

Next purchase... a winter coat.  I still have my long quilted black coat but I would really like a wool coat this season and will get one if the price and fit is right...  any suggestions?

Monday

Yes, I am at work today.  Luckily most of my clients are government agencies so it has been a day of catching up on to-dos and being relaxed with the clock.

So relaxed, I went to Ann Taylor on my lunch break.  Didn't find anything I wanted but got a chance to take my picture for you folks while in the fitting room:

Plum sweater from Ann Taylor Loft, black pants from New York & Company, David Tate city boots, green earrings from New York and Company and earrings from Treehouse.

My hair is desperately asking me for a trim and color touch-up.  I may go this week.  I actually broke down and trimmed my own bangs Saturday night before the bachelorette party and sort of regret it (of course).  This morning it wouldn't do curly and it wouldn't do straight.  It only wanted to do Sitck My Head OPut Window at 95 MPH or Kip Winger.

My makeup is Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage, Estee Lauder Nutritious foundation, Cargo Matte BeachBlush in Tenerife, Revlon ColorStay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis - the olive color on the lid.  Stila shadow in... some dark purple in crease and along lash line.  A Tarte mascara I got as a sample and Givenchy lipgloss in 04.

No pictures yet from this weekend.  For the bachelorette party I wore my black sleeveless wrap top from Ann Taylor, my black pants that I am wearing today, black patent shoes and lots of silver jewelery and a purple pashmina for the chill.  For the shower I wore my other pair of black pants, black city boots, black cami and my plum deep v-neck wrap sweater from Philosophy.

Going Green - Breaking the Paper Towel Habit

My husband and I aren’t ones to say we are Super Green – gosh you all know where I purchase my clothing and beauty products. However we do regularly try to infuse more earth-friendly routines and activities into our life. It’s better to do one or two small things than nothing at all.

One of our new year’s resolutions was to cut down the amount of trash we make as a family. Our decisions were to make a compost pile in the back yard (for food scraps, produce past its prime, dryer lint, etc.) and to break the paper towel habit.

I realized that we were going through almost an entire roll of paper towel in a week. From cleaning up muddy footprints from Ruckus to a quick wipe-down of the bathroom before company was to arrive, we always seemed to be running for the paper towel. In fact, the first gadget I bought for our new kitchen was a brushed stainless paper towel holder to match the appliances.

I thought it would be tough, but this weekend I realized that we still have the same roll of paper towel that we purchased back in January (okay we broke down once Emerson was born and bought one of those Costco-sized packages of like 24 rolls).

For those of you who are paper towel addicts like us, I wanted to share how we broke the habit, and now live a life where we can’t even imagine needing a roll of disposable paper at the ready.

The rag basket:

As soon as you walk into our home, we have a half bath/laundry room. In there we have this mesh bin (one of those pop-up ones for laundry that they sell for like $3 at the grocery store). In there we have a random assortment of rags. Bath and hand towels that are past their prime, cheapo Gerber diapers that were given as gifts or passed down from friends, a couple microfiber clothes from the automotive section of Target, old dish towels that now have holes in them, even old tee shirts – cut off the edges and sleeves and you have two great dusting rags! Anyway, we have a real assortment so we are ready for most any spill or situation. Dogs went outside on a rainy day? I take an old bath towel and put it down on the floor right at the door for them to step on and have an old diaper ready to wipe feet and raindrops from their fur. Emerson spilled food on the floor? If it’s not too soggy, we grab and old tee shirt; if it’s soupy we grab another diaper or some microfiber. Diapers are our preferred rag – the size and absorbency make them great for everything from a quick cleaning of the glass and wood coffee table to scrubbing banana off Emerson’s Jumperoo, to wiping down the quartz kitchen counters.

This mesh basket is great because I can see in it so I can easily dig round for the right sized rag. Also the mesh lets the towels breathe so they never smell musty or old. By the way, this basket is only half-full because a load of rags were in the laundry at the time of the photo.

When a rag is used, we have a vented laundry basket inside our laundry closet and toss the rags right in there. Then they get washed the next laundry day. I sometimes toss them in with Emerson’s cloth diapers because I know they will then get scrubbed really well; other times I have so many I can do a load of just rags. When it’s nice out I put them on the line. I never use fabric softener with them because that inhibits the fabric’s absorbency – instead I use dryer balls (Google and you will find tons of different types and brands).

I know people who keep said rags in a basket under their sink, in a box in their pantry or even their hallway coat closet.

The kitchen drawer:

Want to buy me a gift? Get me a cool looking dish towel. I love these guys and have slowly been building my stash. Clearance at big box stores, funky shops at the beach, thrift stores... you can find great dish towels most any where.  This pile is a bit low because many (including my funky faves) were in the wash at the time of this photo.  I could probbaly fill a while drawer with dish towels but don't have the kitchen space so they bunk with random gadgets.

We use dish towels for quick wipes of the counter, to clean up splatters on the stove, even as napkins for some meals. We throw them into the laundry basket in the half bath when finished. For those who do not have a laundry room so close by, they sell wet bags that can hook right onto the front of your oven to hold dirty dishtowels and rags. Come laundry day, dump the contents into the washer, and even throw the wet bag itself in there and use it to carry your towels back to the kitchen after use.

Hey, I again have a good use for my paper towel holder!

NOTE: Another green and budget-friendly idea is to refill your foaming hand wash bottles with one part Dr. Bronner's castille soap to 10 parts water.  That Method bottle is over a year old and though it may say Sweet Water, it in fact makes lovely suds that smell like tangerines.

Cloth napkins:
No picture, but we have slowly been getting a stash. I got some gorgeous blue printed ones that look like something that would be sold at Williams Sonoma – they were $5 for a 4-pack at Marshall’s. I of course bought two packs. Etsy has tons of shops that sell great cloth napkins in fun prints for low prices.

Cloth napkins are easy to launder, take up little space and add a touch of elegance to even take-out pizza and cans of beer!

It really is possible to live without paper towels - and this comes from a woman with three dogs and a baby!

From GetRichSlowly.org: How To Stop Buying Clothes You Never Wear

This week, Get Rich Slowly featured an article by staff writer April Dykman entitled, "How to Stop Buying Clothes You Never Wear."  This article takes ideas from  fashion designers, writers and bloggers and creates a how-to for all people, regardless of age, lifestyle and gender.  I think this article is a great resource for any person who is looking to clean up her wardrobe or wishes to start shopping smart.  I also think this article is great because Dykman linked to Wardrobe Oxygen! :)  I am honored to be part of a great article which is on a wonderful Web site!

Go check out Get Rich Slowly, and April Dykman's article!

Wednesday Night through Friday

Wednesday after work I had a hot date with my husband!  A friend of ours had two tickets to the The Australian Pink Floyd Show at the Warner Theater.  Supposedly this group is so good they were asked to play for David Gilmour's 50th birthday and have performed with members of Pink Floyd.  The friend wasn't able to attend so he gave us his orchestra seat tickets for free.  I remembered I still had a gift card to Jaleo that I received as a gift for officiating a friend's wedding last year so hubby and I had a free date night! 

I just stayed at work a bit late and then met my husband at the Gallery Place/Chinatown Metro stop.  My mom was generous enough to watch Emerson so we could have the night out.  We walked to Jaleo where we had some fabulous tapas and a couple post-dinner cocktails, and then headed over to the Warner Theater.

The show was quite good and the crowd was phenomenal - so passionate about the music and supportive of the band.  They really made the experience.  And then the Warner Theater is so beautiful with the gold etchings on the ceiling and the chandeliers, the light show was even more awesome against such a backdrop.  We were at my mom's by mignight to pick up Emerson and I was asleep before 1am.  Not too shabby for a school night!

Thursday:

Red print dress from Max Studio, black belt from Ann Taylor, black patent T-straps from Sofft, silver cuff, solitaire stud earrings from Diamond Nexus Labs.

Hair is next day, all I did was brush it.  Makeup is pretty minimal - Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer, Nars blush in Orgasm, Cover Girl LashBlast mascara, Lorac eye shadow in Serenity and Lorac lipstick in Hatha.

No pics today, nothing too exciting.  Super casual Friday.  I am wearing my Gap Essential jeans, my New Balance trainers, a gray ribbed tank, my gray and yellow striped cashmere cardigan from Gap.  Hair was washed and conditioned and air dried into waves, makeup is pretty minimal.

No plans for this evening, but this weekend should be pretty fun.  My dear friend Amanda is having her bachelorette party on Saturday evening and then her shower on Sunday!  I'll be sure to have pictures to share!

Wednesday

Blue print matte jersey wrap dress from Ann Taylor, red patent T-straps from Sofft, red ball earrings from my mom, silver cuff.

Hair is next day, just straightened while dry with round brush and dryer.

Makeup is Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage, Estee Lauder Nutritious foundation in Intensity 3.0, Nars blush in Orgasm, Revlon Colorstay shadow quad in Neutral Khakis - the ivory on the brow bone and Colorstay lipcolor in Rich Raisin, Maybelline UltraLiner in Black, Cover Girl LashBlast mascara.

And for the occasional Emerson fix, here I am with her right after I got home from work last night.  I felt she looked very "Sprockets" in her black turtleneck onesie - her Daddy is still dressing her in crazy outfits (this onesie was paired with zebra-print BabyLegs and green socks and a cow-print diaper).  But really, Emerson doesn't care - she was having a blast Army crawling around on the floor, banging plastic stacking cups together, freaking out the dogs! :)

Tuesday

Man, I can't recall what I wore to work on Friday...

Saturday night we went out for my husband's birthday and I wore my black jersey sleepveless wrap top from Ann Taylor with my black New York & Company pants and black patent T-strap heels from Sofft.

Sunday we had friends over for brunch and I jsut wore my Essential jeans with a green short-sleeved sweater from Banana Republic outlet.

Yesterday I worked from home.

And then today...

My purple paisley tunic dress from Ann Taylor Loft, black boots from Ros Hammerson, silver necklace from Ralph Lauren, silver cuff and silver hoops from Treehouse.

Hair was washed and conditioned the night before with L'Oreal EverPure, then I added some Bumble and bumble. Styling Creme and L'Oreal EverPure gloss serum and let it dry while I slept.  In the AM I used my curling iron on any random pieces.

Makeup is Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage, Estee Lauder Nutritious foundation, Cargo Matte eachBlush in Tenerife, Body Shop shadows in Slate and Soft Black, Avon Glimmersticks in Midnight, Cover Girl LashBlast in Rich Black (never got a new mascara this weekend), Nars lipstick in Dolce Vita.

Thursday

Now that my sister lives a half a mile away from me, we walk together many weekday mornings.  We meet at a halfway point in the neighborhood around 6am and this morning was so cold we thought our ears were going to fall off!  Autumn has officially arrived, and with it come the closed-toe shoes!

White ribbed tank from Gap, my black New York & Company trousers, gray fuzzy cardigan from Kenzie (which I bought last winter to fit over my pregnant belly and still love as a slouchy cozy coverup), black city boots from David Tate, silver necklaces from Ann Taylor and Ralph Lauren, silver cuff and silver earrings from Treehouse.

Hair was washed and conditioned last night and let air dry.  This morning when we went walking I put into a loose ponytail without brushing or combing.  When I got home I let it out and let it dry and then hit a few of the raggedy pieces with a curling iron.  I really want to let my hair grow long and let it get back to being curly - a very casual/beachy sort of look.  Then if I want some polish I can use a curling iron to make it into softer waves or straighten it with a round brush.  I hope to have a couple more inches in time for next summer.  With my next cut I plan to have the bangs angled a bit more so that they blend better into the hair when curly - right now they are sort of blunt (and too long) so that they have to be straightened or else they part in the middle and act weird.

My makeup is the classic look for me, but I did a smokey eye with Slate and Soft black shadows from The Body Shop and Avon Glimmersticks in Midnight along the lower lash line.

I will probably be buying a new mascara this weekend when I hit up Target - any suggestions on something that gives even more bang and intensity than Cover Girl's LashBlast?