Boots Made for Walkin’

Check out my cool boots from Eddie Bauer -- yes, you read the retailer’s name correctly -- Eddie Bauer. The Frye harness boot is the inspiration for this sturdy, traditional style stomper.  These darlings can make a karate kick deadly or turn a foot stomp into an emergency room visit.  Sometimes a girl needs a little extra protection.

The Eddie Bauer catalog shows up regularly in my stack of mail, but I haven’t ordered from them in years.  The last significant order I placed was for a pair of low-heel milk chocolate brown leather knee high boots that I still wear and absolutely adore. (They remind me of Robin Hood -- I feel like I should have a great raucous adventure with my gang of merry sisters while wearing them.)

The Frye harness boot averages $225 although there are some pairs currently discounted to $159.84 on Zappos.com.  No argument that they are well made from good materials in styles that your teenaged daughter would covet.  They are made to last forever. 

The Eddie Bauer boots are currently $129.99 on their website.  I originally found them while absent mindedly flipping through their catalog over dinner.  I thought about them for a minute, wondering how to fit them into my closet and my budget.  However, based on past experience, I knew I would get a high quality product for a great price if I ordered from Eddie.  The new boots are well made of the smoothest leather with great hardware, flexible though not flimsy soles, and a low stack heel that makes them easy to wear all day.  They will make their debut once the ugly gray slush melts this weekend. 

Love ‘em!

Follow You, Follow Me

Friends and fellow stylistas - many folks follow TV shows that they enjoy, or the antics of their favorite celebrities.  I appreciate that you enjoy Casual Friday and I want to make it worth the time that you take to read it.  I’ll keep the blog fresh, fierce and fun. 

I want to increase traffic to Casual Friday and you can help by - (1) signing on as a follower, and (2) telling your friends and family to sign on, too!  It’s as easy as asking, “Is this returnable?”  Simply click onto the colorful “Follow” icon on the sidebar and sign up using your Google, Yahoo, or Twitter account.  You won’t get spammed, although Big Sister will be watching what you’re wearing …

Thanks, and I'm looking forward to being shadowed!

Top Ten Style Resolutions for 2010

1. Seek out more vintage wear - do a regular resale/vintage shop crawl. Create special, personal looks appropriate for my attitude and aspirations.
   
2. Toss out the cherry red nail polish and vamp with the Elvira-inspired colors. Just bought a knockout burnt midnight color, Sephora by OPI‘s “In The Shadows.”
3. Step away from the department stores and step up to the boutiques.
4. Bust out selected evening pieces to mix with daywear.
5. Continue my thrice weekly trips to 12th Street Gym.
6. Continue to wear things that hug the body that I’ve worked hard for!
7. Wear my vintage coats. At free/inherited, and five or ten dollars, they are small style investments that I should not hoard.
8. No schlub wear while shopping or running errands. You get more respect when you’re not rocking the charwoman look.
9. Wear the gorgeous vintage costume jewelry that I inherited from my mother, grandmother and great aunt. The pieces will look better dangling from my wrists or my throat than they will lying in the jewelry box.
   
10. Forgo hair color and keep the ultra cool Charlie Jones as my barber.
    

A Thing of Beauty

I recently bought a birthday gift for a friend from a mall store. I took it home and disliked it immediately. It was impersonal, nothing special. It occurred to me that if the gift didn’t delight me it probably wouldn’t delight my friend. I returned the gift to the mall store, and picked out something unique and thoughtful from a small neighborhood shop. I loved it and knew that my friend would, too. The gift was a truer reflection of her interests and preferences.

Avoid the cookie cutter, anonymous gift routine this year – support your local artisans. One of my favorite artisans is my friend Lynda Black. She has crafted a collection of colorful bracelets that make a statement without being gaudy. They are not baubles, not mere trinkets. Each one is flower bed-pretty and encircles your wrist in an eye-catching kaleidoscope.

So, roll up your sleeves – you will want one of these handmade pieces. Your inner gypsy will thank you. For more information, contact Lynda through her blog, http://www.time4grace.blogspot.com.

Rockin’ the Casbah

Style is universal. Style is how you move through the world. It is the thumbprint that you leave, how people remember you. My hobby is style. I love to be surrounded by beautiful things, I love to carry and wear things that look and feel wonderful. Don’t we all?

I recently found Hijab Style, a style blog for Muslim women who wear hijab. It’s straight outta London and it rocks! Hijab is Arabic for “cover” and is the head scarf worn by Muslim women. It can also refer to the modest Muslim style of dress. Muslims differ as to how hijab dress should be enforced, but the blogger for Hijab Style is a fierce Muslim fashionista who shows us how to blend high style and modesty. The writer writes extensively and knowledgeably about contemporary fashion, contemporary Muslim women and the crossroads where they meet.

The blog features sections on evening wear, featuring hijab-friendly western designers such as Max Azria, Valentino, and Giambattista Valli. Sections on office wear feature items from Topshop and Ralph Lauren. There is coverage of Jakarta Fashion Week, street style from Dubai, and shout outs to Islamic clothing lines that explode with color and whimsy. My favorite items are the show stopping BQ sunglasses, which are described as a “new brand of shades with a chic twist on tradition.” BQs claim to be the “first sunglasses especially tailored for the piously dressed women in the Persian Gulf.” They appear to be a stylized mash up of racing goggles and a superhero mask.

This blog is fun and extraordinarily eye-opening; I could spend hours there. I'm not trading in my jeans or sundresses, but I gained a new perspective on Muslim women and the liberating aspects of the hijab. Check it out here.

All quotes from Hijab Style blog.

The Steal

Recently enjoyed a weekday off. Visited the local Salvation Army to look through racks and racks of discarded togs for something special. I waded through dozens of oversized tweed jackets, worn out woolens, gaudy tropical prints, and dainty floral prints that reminded me of 1980s “made for TV” flicks starring Jaclyn Smith and the starlet-of-the-month as a psychotic babysitter.

The store was also overrun with discarded exercise videotapes, “Pocono Village” shot glasses, and a variety of outdated technology like cassette players, VCRs, CRTs, and analog TV sets. I was looking for an uber-bargain - a unique piece to brag about that would stoke envy in the hearts of cheapskates everywhere.

The furniture department was crammed with oversized floral sofas, and an occasional treasure from the bygone era of “real” furniture - an armoire or desk from the 1940s or early 1950s. That’s where I found the most unbelievable deal, a distressed black leather jacket, stashed away from greedy little hands (like mine). Zip front, faux fur lining for warmth. Hip length, perfect fit. $15!! The jacket would have cost at least twice as much at Buffalo Exchange or any of the other trendy resale shops downtown. I was ecstatic!

I love scouring second-hand stores - the thrill of the hunt, the unknown. Philadelphia lost many thrift stores over the past two decades (Village Thrift, Goodwill, other neighborhood shops) and treasures are harder to find in the stores that still exist. The hunt requires diligence, hours devoted to pushing through racks of droopy cottons, shabby silks, and scratchy acrylics to uncover the timeless Chanel skirt, the BCBG Max Azria blouse, the impeccably tailored Harris Tweed men’s business suit. Vintage stores often get their wares from the same Salvation Army that you visited last weekend, but they spend time and money having their purchases cleaned and pressed, then neatly hung in the shops.

So now I’m waiting for the temperatures to dip into the 40s to show it off. I will probably wear it with jeans, cords, and the pencil skirt that I just ordered from Boden USA. Woo-hoo!

The Chuck Report

Now available -- trimmed down Chucks!

$150 will buy the new white leather Chuck Taylor designed by the artist Terence Koh for the Converse 1 HUND(RED) line. Less rubber, styled more like the shoes that boxers wear in the ring. Minimalist, stripped down, they make a entirely different statement - delicate, not tough. Jazz, not hip hop. Peaceful posse, not gang wars. The NY Times quoted Mr. Koh as seeing the shoe as "a perfect round white pearl."

Judge for yourself. These shoes will be available beginning November 21 at Opening Ceremony, 35 Howard Street, New York. The design is appealing, and will likely sell well. I am partial to the traditional style (and the traditional price), but Christmas is coming and I've been pretty damn good ...

Click here to see Mr. Koh and his new design.

Ch-Ch-Ch Changes

One of the stores that I've ignored for years, Ann Taylor, is changing its stripes. Ann never really spoke to me -- it was a bit too conservative. I like items that are conceived with attitude and born to make a statement. Ann did business suits well. They did khakis and noncontroversial casual wear well. Their look worked well with lawyers, accountants and other glass-ceiling busters.

More recently Ann heard that glamor is not a bad word. A new design team revived their offerings for women who want a bolder, more high style look with modern colors like espresso, port and plume. I was surprised to find the interview suit of my dreams on their website; a suit that would get my narrow little foot in the door of More magazine as a contributing editor. (Ok, so I daydream a lot.) The jacket is black and gray herringbone tweed with an oversized notch lapel that would showcase a graceful neck and beautiful face, and a nipped-in waist with a peplum hem. It is paired with a matching pencil skirt. They also carry the perfect platform pump to wear with the suit.

The website boasts a collection of LBDs in various styles -- sleeveless, strapless, sweater -- all sexy and slim to the body. I found a lipstick red puffer jacket that is perfect for nights out that definitely raises one's fierce quotient. The coolest thing that I found on their website is a black pencil skirt adorned in a cascade of black grosgrain ribbon ruffles. Ann Taylor? It looks more like Jason Wu.

They're getting there. Shoe booties. Boyfriend jackets. Stilettos. Ruffled cardigans. Nice stuff! Many of these items are now closet staples for the average fashionista. Ann's prices are moderate for some, pricey for others. But window/website shopping is free, and now that they have my attention, they'll see me at "clearance" time.

The Eyes Have It

I dipped my toe into the eyeliner river a couple of months ago - it seemed like to right thing to do. I wanted to jazz up my look and accentuate a positive feature. Over the years I had tried lots of powders and pencils to give my eyes depth and pump up the lashes. Powders disappeared after 30 minutes; pencils ended up caked in the crease of my eyelid or a smudge on a tissue. Most recently I used L’Oreal’s HIP (high intensity pigmented) liner pencils which hung tough for about four hours then evaporated.

I have oily skin and limited time and patience. I was about to give up on smoky come-hither eyes when I heard about Bobbi Brown gel eyeliner. Bobbi Brown lipstick is almost always in my make-up bag and I love her color palette. The cosmetics are expensive, but I was willing to give the eyeliner a go.

I popped into Macy's, and at the Bobbi Brown counter I found some of prettiest colors I’ve ever seen for eyes; most of them are beautiful on darker skin tones! I bought caviar ink, a deep black/brown, but I also recommend jet black, indigo ink, granite ink, and black plum ink. It’s not cheap, but it’s worth bringing lunch from home for couple of days.

Here’s what’s fabulous about it – it lasts through a sweaty two-hour workout. It’s water-resistant and grease-resistant. It’s easy and quick to apply with the right brush. Now, here’s the key – don’t spend $25 for their ultra fine brush. Go to the drugstore and get a brush for $5. I recommend Sonia Kashuk for Target’s angled eye shadow brush.

Get the right tools, get the right look.

Marvelous Every Day

I have marvelous friends. I’m lucky to be surrounded by super smart, kind, funny women who are living their lives unapologetically. They are accomplished artists, philanthropists, communicators. They have rolled up their sleeves and plunged into community work. They are committed to family and personal connections that keep them grounded and whole. The best part is that they are one hell of a lot fun to hang out with.

However, this group of fierce, fabulous women have one fatal flaw -- they don’t see themselves as the fashionistas that they truly are. These women are bad! They have class, soul, style! They are self-assured, colorful, classy. They are sporting great haircuts with fresh, sexy color. They are draped in colorful scarves, unique ethnic pieces curated from their travels. Pieces that ensnare me like a butterfly net. They rock waterfalls of necklaces and spirals of bracelets, making statements in silver and gold, turquoise, amethyst, opal.

They represent a rainbow. I see gorgeous ebony faces framed by silver halos showing how bohemian chic is supposed to be worn. I see vivacious, statuesque blonds with attitude wearing well-loved pieces that prove that what’s on the outside is as important as what’s on the inside. These ladies are never inappropriate, never boring, never stuffy.

My sisters! Embrace your fabulousness -- unleash it to the world! Let it inhale your vibrancy, your perennial chic. You are the bright lights in my life, and it’s time to shine a little brighter -- to yourselves. A couple of days ago my friend Lynda said, "I have to look marvelous every day." And she does. So do you.

Plenty at Daffy's

Fans of designer Tracy Reese should extend their lunch hour tomorrow and head to Daffy's at 17th & Chestnut. The building's fifth floor has a stash of items from her Plenty line for consideration. These are vintage-inspired classic pieces in deep shades such as peacock and sapphire. There are workplace-friendly black velvet pants, cropped jackets with jeweled closures - stuff that looks great and will keep you cozy on chilly fall mornings. Can't say I didn't tell you!

Seasonings: A Taste of What’s Hot for Fall

Boots - Love the rounded toe and stockier high heel - more comfortable and walkable than the pointed toe and railroad spike heels of the more recent collections. Ankle boots are hot, with the slouchy look a favored variation. The over-the-knee boot is the most sizzling look for the season. It can be worn over skinny jeans, with leggings, minis, tights and tunics. It’s pretty damn sexy, but if you’re not ready to commit to the look, the classic knee high boot is a sure bet. (Style tip: if you’re still wearing scuffed boots from the 1990s with a 2” broad chunky heel, toss those babies out immediately.)

Women’s Wing Tips - Although they remind me of the shoes that nuns wore, I love the practicality of these sexy mid- and high heel oxfords. They are available everywhere in suede, tweed, and patent leather and in lush nature colors such as deep berry, black cat, mud, forest green. My fantasy pair would be from the perennially unaffordable shoemaker Robert Clergerie. I’ve seen his low heel oxford in hot pink and in silver metallic. Naturalizer has styles in a wide range of sizes all under $100.

Cardigans - Longer lengths in cashmere, cotton, mohair, lambswool, merino, acrylic. Shades from sky to earth, as well a few unnatural shades that will appeal to those who are looking to the eighties for inspiration. Wear them long and body hugging. Belt them to show off your waistline. Cardigans can be found everywhere, from Old Navy to H&M to J. Crew to Bloomingdale’s and all over the on-line shopping websites (one of my favorites is BodenUSA).

Tights - Tights with boots. Tights with high heeled oxfords. Tights with ballet flats and slinky little tunics. Tights with floral print dresses. Tights with peep toe platforms. Lacy tights, plaid tights, bohemian black tights. They’re everywhere, get a pair! Tights are far less worrisome than pantyhose and are warmer and chicer. Don’t bother with department stores; the best deals on tights are at TJ Maxx and Daffy’s.

The Boyfriend Jacket - Just another term for a more flattering length and fit. It is a distant relative of the oversized 80s linebacker jackets that I referenced in my October 2 post. The shoulder is built up a bit, but the jacket is shaped to fit a woman’s smaller frame and the hem hits at the lower hip. It’s a more forgiving fit than the shrunken jackets of past seasons, and will allow for more comfortable layering.

Gray - I love color, especially on the walls of my home and the art that adorns them, but I'm loving gray this season. It was the color for fall in Paris and two of the four clothing items that I bought there were in shades of gray. Slate, silver, kitten, pearl, pewter -- I love them all. Every shade is sophisticated and soft. There are shades of gray to flatter every skin tone, and it's a great backdrop for lively punches of color. Try a pearl gray sweater with a hot pink pencil skirt, or a slate gray knee length sweater coat over a blue or green flouncy floral print dress and boots.

These are just a few tasty morsels from the fall fashion buffet. Want more? Grab a trusted friend and head downtown! I'll meet you there.

Playing Catch Up

Our top style story in today’s NY Times is that Eileen Fisher, the clothing line for mid-life women looking to blend into the woodwork, is seeking a younger, more fashionable customer. If you’re not familiar, Eileen Fisher is a line of loose, uninspiring layers in muted colors. Her clothing line is like chamomile tea. Calm, comforting, no zing, no spice.

Traditionally, her line has not celebrated the female form. It wouldn’t get you second glances as you sashayed along the boulevard. Many of her items reminded me of the wardrobe that Bea Arthur’s character, Maude, wore in the celebrated 1970s sitcom. Eileen Fisher didn't get the younger designers. Eileen Fisher was not sexy.

Well, it appears that Ms. Fisher may be looking for somebody like me now. I’m a fashionable mid-life woman who wants clothing that celebrates her form. I want to show off my waistline and well-toned calves. I’m not afraid of leggings and I wear knit dresses. I’ve given away or shortened my mid-calf length dresses and skirts. My blouses and jackets are fitted.

Her plan is to give her line “stronger attitude.” Thrift stores, resale shops and other discounters give me the opportunity to craft my own look and slip into my attitude-of-the-day. Maybe she can offer some alternatives. Or can she?

I checked out her prices in the latest Garnet Hill catalog. Her new knee-length wool scoop-neck dress sells for $218. The model also sported leggings that go for $88. Her multi-fiber body conscious long cardigan goes for $198. Three weeks ago I bought two pair of winter-weight leggings from Express for $34. Last week Daffy’s had knee length wool dresses in scrumptious colors for $60. You can see where I’m going with this. If Eileen Fisher wants the average mid-life woman as a customer in this economy, she’s got to make us feel as if we’re getting a serious bargain for some serious style.

That 80s Show

Young designers seem to be infatuated with everything 80s, but have we forgotten how much bad fashion there was? Remember the linebacker shoulder pads (HUT! HUT!), neon-colored makeup, front pleated jeans? Do you really want to wear that stuff again? Didn’t we see enough bare shoulders inspired by Flashdance (although we couldn’t leap as high as Jennifer Beals’s prancing dance double); sequined biker jackets inspired by Michael Jackson; underwear as outerwear; and the Dandy looks sported by Prince during his purple reign?

Did you have an asymmetrical haircut, Jeri Curl or frizzy perm? An asymmetrical Jeri Curl? Crimped hair? Bigger hair than the Afros of the 70s? Do you want to wear those hairstyles again? How many curl-activated-soaked collars are you willing to tolerate?

I tried to stick to time-tested pieces during the Reagan era: straight-legged Lee jeans with gem colored blouses or men’s white dress shirts, t-shirts that trumpeted my favorite radio station or rock group. Knit dresses. Levis jean jackets. White Keds. Sweatshirts with short skirts and tights in primary colors. However, I did give in to tight purple jeans, bright red high tops, skinny ties and leggings as trousers. LOVED leggings – still do. I don’t wear them as trousers now; they are layered under a tunic or floaty dress.

There were a few other bright spots – the oversized thrift store tweed jackets and coats that I wore with a Denise Huxtable attitude over baggy layers. In addition to the tweeds I also wore a Ricky Ricardo style black tuxedo jacket in over-air-conditioned offices.

Although I watched Miami Vice religiously, I could not take pastel tuxedos seriously. I went to lots of weddings in the 80s that featured groomsmen in lavender penguin suits – some with no socks. Sucked the elegance right out of the event.

And Dynasty suits! I couldn’t figure out which was worse – scores of corporate women dressed in conservative navy blue suits and blouses with bows around their necks or receptionists in full out Alexis Carrington regalia. Did you wear a melon-colored suit with avenue sized shoulder pads to your first office job?

Here’s my advice: if you were in high school, college, or the workplace in the 1980s, step away from the herd. We wore it once -- often disastrously. Let those who wore born in the 1980s and 1990s raid our closets and Goodwill for authentic acid-washed jeans, Members Only jackets, and Flava Flav clock medallions. The rest of us should stick to the classics.

Image of Madonna courtesy of PicApp.

Pretty Young Things (PYTs)

And everything looks so complete when you walk out on the street and the wind catches your feet and sends you flyin'*

Tease, flirt. Light up the night -- be the night light -- the night life. Life of the party with an irresistible vibe. Every night is New Year's Eve.

*Lyrics from "Wild Nights" written by Van Morrison.

Dream A Little Dream

Underwater dreamscape of ruby and amethyst. Elegant, regal. Purple haze, ruby baby. Rare beauty just below the surface. Indulge, adorn yourself in the colors of the royals. Everyday is your special occasion.

Paris Rock and Roll Fantasy

"Said my name is called disturbance"*

Become the unrepentant punk god that will vault you from your mind numbing existence. Scream. Snarl. Leap. Cajole and whip them into a froth. Make them yours; hold them in your palm. Inject yourself into their dreams, their plans. Become the fantasy.

*Lyrics from “Street Fighting Man” written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards

Windows 2009

Parisian shop windows pull you in deep – like the eyes of a lover. Parisian shop windows are also the pathways to your wallet. They seduce, drawing you into a colorful, sophisticated world far removed from your drab everyday existence. Artful, thoughtful displays switch on the id. You stop, look, and want as your reflection bounces off the almost transparent cases of joy.

The beauty of the windows, the planning and vision of the window artists surprised me, and elicited unbridled joy in other passersby. Clothing, jewelry and hats are all arranged to catch and hold the eye.

In these photos you can practically hear each window whisper, “Step into our pool – quench your thirst – change your identity – change your life. Come in, come in – I can satisfy you, glamorize you …”

An American in Paris

I met an American fashionista on the trip. She was a member of my travel group, a young textbook editor from Chicago. I spotted her on Sunday afternoon at the group’s first meeting -- she was a standout. Her haircut is reminiscent of the 1960s Vidal Sassoon bob. The side fringes drew my attention to her fabulous earrings, which resembled the scales of Libra.

Slim and stylish, she looks like an extra from the Beatles debut film, “Hard Days Night” or a member of the new incarnation of The Bangles. Everyday she pulled French style out of her suitcase and slipped it on. Large glamorous sunglasses, mini skirts that showed off long legs, and liberal, but not gaudy use of color. Always appropriate and spot on.

During the week that our group wandered through Paris, I asked her about her style influences and got the surprising answer, “Well, no one in particular.” She intimated that most of the women she admires are not in fashion. This coming from a woman who crosses Audrey Hepburn’s gamine quality with Twiggy’s mod, swinging London look! She told me that she dresses by imaging her “personal future” and dressing like that person.

She doesn’t spend much money on clothes, says that there is no reason to do so. One of her favorite spots for fun accessories is Target. She scoured the few modestly priced shops in Paris and scored shoes, dresses, t-shirts and other items on sale (or prix massacres) that will increase her cache of stylista points.

Here are a couple of pics that showcase her summer style savvy and fashion sense. Keep on stylin’ girl!

She Makes It Look Easy

French women look great zipping around the city on scooters in wedge sandals and scarves. They know it.

Oui - French women are effortlessly stylish. Never too casual. Never sloppy. Rarely overdone. Always working the personal style. Right now they are wearing beautiful leather knee high boots or rose petal soft suede ankle boots with airy summer dresses. Elegant ballet flats with knee length slim skirts. Colorful chunky necklaces. Sandals in heavy metal colors of gold, silver, and bronze. No oversized anything.

Women over 40 are the most fabulous. They're rocking graphic tees with flat front slacks or slim boot cut jeans and Chanel-influenced jackets. Skirts are worn above the knee but never as high as mid-thigh. They're wearing floaty layers of mocha silk or pewter linen on the warmest days with bare legs and 4" wedges or flat-as-a-crepe sandals in primary colors. Sporting sharp edged designer eyeglasses in hot colors like raspberry red, crabgrass green or white.

And, as with the French men, no basketball sneakers for casual wear. No sweatsuits. No clothing that make them look like old draperies or armchairs. There are always a couple of eye catching pieces of jewelry and something that accentuates their femininity: a jacket pulled snug around the waist with a wide belt or a neckline that showcases sexy shoulders and collarbones.

French women do not leave the house without makeup. I'm not talking about layering it on Kabuki-style, just mascara and eyeliner, lipstick and a maybe hint of color on the cheekbones. No 80s-style eyeshadow sunsets on the eyelids, no harsh lipliner. Less is more. Hair is not overdone. You won't find crunchy overprocessed hair but will find lots of expensive color and cuts. I haven't seen a Hair Cuttery anywhere in Paris.

Leggings are worn as a first layer, not as slacks. Minis are worn two ways in summer - as a second or third layer over a tank top and capri length leggings, or as lightweight frock worn with barely there sandals.

Within a week I'll post pics of our guide for the Louvre and Versailles; she's the epitome of French style. I'll also post pics of an American that I met on the trip who left the States with a suitcase full of French style. She inspired me every day. In the meantime, pick up a copy of French Vogue and get inspired!

A bientot!

Men In Suits

Cary Grant. Humphrey Bogart. Tyrone Power. What made these men appear powerful, sexy and larger-than-life? Why do women still swoon when talking about these gods from the golden age of cinema? They wore suits. Cary, Bogie and Tyrone had many natural gifts, but would we still care about them if they had worn velvet track suits or baggy jeans as they crawled across Mount Rushmore or exchanged snappy repartee with a nervous young suspect? Doubtful.

Men in Paris are unabashedly sexy. They wear suits. Well-cut trousers, jackets that fit them - not their oversized uncles. Navy, charcoal, pin stripes. Crisp shirts in white or pastels. Impeccable leather shoes that bear no resemblance to the merchandise at Shoe Corner. No pleated trousers. Non to Jerry Garcia ties or ties that resemble a four year-old’s art project. Suits - not a pilly pullover and worn Dockers. Suits on scooters - suits on the Metro.

French businessmen look like they will win the chess game. They’re well-groomed with great haircuts. They aren’t wearing basketball sneakers and khakis as they plot their next move. They don't walk into a meeting wearing polo shirts under sports jackets with mangy backpacks hanging off their shoulders.

Remember the last time you saw the man in your life wearing a suit? Bet your temperature went up a bit. Remember when one of your co-workers came to the office in a business suit? Bet he looked more competent. When your company's IT guy came to work wearing a suit everyone assumed that he was looking for a new job. He looked serious and far more socially adept.

It may be time to dissolve the casual workplace. We've gotten sloppy in dress and in practice. A well-dressed businessman in the States shouldn't be as rare as the dodo bird. Besides, isn't it true that when we look good we feel good? If we feel good, we perform better. Two of my favorite TV lawyers, Perry Mason and Jack McCoy, always wear suits on the job. They would not be nearly as intimidating in Sixers jerseys.

What man doesn't want to be as cool as Bogie? He won because he was dressed like a winner.

Going Over - Part II

I traveled in high style through no effort of my own!

One of my gym buddies works for the airline that I used for this trip and upgraded my lowly economy seat to first class. Here’s what up about first class: yards of leg room; large, comfortable, infinitely adjustable seats; fluffy pillows; a real blanket that probably won’t give you a rash. Folks aren’t packed into the compartment like sardines--it’s a much more humane way to fly. Granted, I’ll be returning to the States in the cattle compartment, but oh! this is the way to go.

Was offered a glass of sparkling wine before the plane left the runway. A flight attendant rolled a cart down the aisles asking passengers if they would like today’s newspaper or a magazine. Flight attendants introduced themselves to me. How wonderful! How perfectly civilized! This is what it means to honor someone else’s humanity and treat them well. Pay attention, exceed their expectations, bring them joy.

The entrees for the evening meal included medallions of pork tenderloin, grilled steak, and shrimp. I ordered crab cakes and a second glass of sparkling wine to accompany the meal. The crab cakes were served with tropical fruit salsa, herbed lemon risotto, and sautéed asparagus. So different from my typical Friday meal of pizza, leftover pasta, or half a roasted chicken with three sides from the Fresh Grocer. Ordered caramel flan for dessert. Champagne flowed freely. Choice of liquors. Cheese and fruit tray as a dessert option.

Blissfully quiet. No banshee wails from tired, impatient infants. No restless toddlers kicking the back of my chair. Personal video screen on which I watched the “Cher & Elvis” edition of “Trading Spaces.” Had my choice of movies, television programs, or music specials to watch. Could even make my own CD!

Complimentary flight survival kit included a mini toothbrush, minty toothpaste, cozy socks, eye shades, lotion, lip balm and earplugs. Sweet. Passengers ate off of real plates, with real glass and silverware and spotless white cloth napkins. Staff was solicitous, kind, personable. I felt like a celeb.

There was a light breakfast available the next morning as we coasted into Europe: vanilla yogurt, honey nut granola, dried banana chips, almonds, raspberries and blackberries. Moist cranberry walnut bread. Pulpy orange juice. Bottled water, coffee or tea.

Traveling in style. Every need was anticipated. My humanity was respected; I was just a little sad to get off the plane.

Going Over - Part I

It is amazing how many people dress like they’re cleaning out the basement when they're traveling. I have seen more shower shoes, baggy, shapeless capris, pajama bottoms, unlaced work boots and faded polos than I would find at a frat house charity car wash. Folks don’t get it -- you don’t have to look like an orphan to be comfortable. I would never suggest wearing a form fitting jacket and pencil skirt with pantyhose on an overnight flight, but there are many attractive alternatives for travel.

A hoodie as your in-flight Linus blanket is fine, but please leave the funky, frayed, stained ones at home. After all, you’ll probably find a cuter one with a fresher design at your destination. And, please comb your hair. Do you want to look like you just crawled out from under a coverlet?

Consider cotton knit yoga pants and layered lightweight tees (with spandex to hold their shape). A forgiving, hip length wrap sweater goes everywhere and over everything. A lightweight merino wool can span three seasons and will impart the air of sophisticated tourista. The Gap sells supersoft cotton cardigans under their Gap Body line that are perfect for travel.

Don’t wear big white Reebox or New Balance unless you’re planning to conduct a step aerobics class at 30,000 feet. Tap into your inner ballerina and slip into a gorgeous pair of silver or bronze flats. Flat heel, rounded toe, easy to remove for airport security. Jeans are always great for travel, but consider pairing them with a low ankle boot or sharp spectator oxford. And please, please keep the "Juicy" off of your butt. I can guarantee you that nobody wants to see that.

I saw two travel-smart women at Philadelphia International Airport while I was waiting to board my flight. One was an older woman wearing wide-legged granite colored crinkled silk pants, a shrunken pearl gray jacket layered over a white T and ropes of clunky pearl and silver necklaces. Another was a 30-something woman wearing a loose vintage print mini dress with scary baby doll shoes that sported velvet ankle ties and 6” platform soles. Those shoes were not made for walking, but she was working the style! Just before boarding she changed into purple patent ballet flats.

Traveling to France in style - mais oui.

Summer Diversions

Hello lovers of style! As a diversion from my weekly spin on the realities of getting dressed, I'm bringing you a sweet little story from my buddy Christine Otis. Click onto "story" to read more. Enjoy!

Naomi Sims: 1948-2009

Naomi Sims -- simply the best. Mahogany carved Barbie doll with the high wattage smile who embodied Black glamour at the height of the Black Power movement. The alternate take of the All-American beauty. She looked like me -- and my friends Tanya, Camille, and Charlotte. She strode away from the myth of the light-skinned Black beauty as desirable. Reminded us that we come in a rainbow of hues, and that the wonder of the blackness can produce people of every imaginable skin tone.

Was super before the term "supermodel" reduced all long limbed beauties to sameness. Paved the way for other dark skinned beauties such as Iman, Alek Wek, Naomi Campbell and Roshumba. With Naomi sistas approached the intersection of the women's movement, the Black Power movement and the redefinition of beauty with less trepidation and an unlocked suitcase full of strength and style.

Thanks, Naomi, for being so fierce, so fabulous, so gorgeous. You left us too soon -- we'll miss you.

A Hair Raising Tale

Last week a friend said to me, “women should not be slaves to their hair.” I couldn’t agree more. She recently changed her style from a head of carefree bronze-colored twists to a neatly constructed updo. She looks great in both styles, but she prefers the low maintenance path.

I was admiring her new ‘do as we chatted with two of her friends. When we segued to the subject of hairstyle vs. workout, she agreed with her friends that on the first day of a fresh ‘do it’s okay to skip the workout. After all, a woman’s gotta have one day of eye-popping gorgeousness! I mentioned women I’ve known who avoid workouts – and forgo the life-changing benefits of improved health – because of “hair issues.” I’ve heard otherwise sensible women complain about lugging hair products and equipment to the gym or on vacation. I know women who will not exert themselves at all for fear of “sweating out their hair.” And others who never let their men see them without their hair done.

I’ve been a hair slave myself. Spent lots of money on perms, blow dryers, setting lotions, mousse, gels, and rollers of every size and color. Used a hot comb while playing James Brown’s “Hot Pants” in the background as I tried to avoid scorching my scalp. Dragged my sick and broken body to the salon for a touch-up when I should have been in bed under a doctor’s care. It was a lot of effort for perfection – perfectly straight, perfectly coiffed hair.

Eventually I got tired of bad hair days. In 1997 I went to a local barbershop to have it shorn. Made it too short for an Afro but still completely natural. Tossed out the products, appliances and accessories. And, guess what? I’ve never felt better or sexier. I don’t worry about rain, humidity, wind or sweat. Many say that it was a bold move and often end with the statement, “I wish I could wear my hair like that.” It does take a lot of nerve – it was three years for me from decision to action. But now I can workout like a warrior princess, run outdoors in a spring shower, spend the day at the beach, or make love until dawn without a care.

Is this a political statement? Maybe, but it’s personal politics. Freeing myself from an expensive, time consuming ritual. Finding a stronger sense of femininity than that proscribed by tradition and popular culture. Redefining beauty. Creating a new self.

So now I swing my earrings instead of my hair -- they don’t mind the rain, either. And much love to my wonderful barber, Charlie Jones, who keeps me looking sharp.

Cheap and Cheerful

A few summers ago I picked up an adorable black and white double knit polyester shift dress at Target. It was from the Isaac Mizrahi for Target line, a favorite. Sleeveless, fitted bodice, inverted front pleat, back zip. No ironing needed – always looks fresh. (Isaac has moved on to Liz Claiborne, and Target has not been the same for cheap and chic fans. Isaac always had the store’s most classic designs, and he created a distinctive style by fusing eye-popping color with timelessness.)

I’ve only worn the dress a few times because it needs a bit of tailoring. It still looked new when I pulled it out of the trunk this spring and hung it with my other summer dresses.

Earlier this year I bought a shamrock green double-breasted cotton cardigan from Old Navy. Three quarter length sleeves, slightly flared, hits at the high waist. I bought it anticipating my summer travels, long flights in cold airplanes, and chilly restaurants at home. Hung it in the cedar closet tucked away with my wool and cashmere.

One day during our moody rainy spring I needed a great work outfit that would lift me out of the doldrums. I dug out the Old Navy sweater and paired it with the Target shift, rocking the early 1960’s socialite look. I added a pair of killer black slingbacks, and raised the temperature of the outfit with Big Red (see May 27 post).

Got a bazillion compliments that day. Some loved the pop of the green, a color that I never before considered wearing. Others liked the dress, particularly the effortless style and always right black and white pattern. Here’s what’s cool – the dress was $30, and the sweater was $40. However, the outrageously sexy shoes (Faconnable from Nordstrom.com) cost more than twice the total of the dress and sweater. The moral of the story: a successful mix of the cheap and the costly often works best with classic styles. Think of simple pullover sweaters, shirtwaist dresses. Consider wearing a Gap t-shirt under a classic cashmere sweater. Spend more on the interview suit and layer it over a colorful, inexpensive Old Navy t-shirt. Splurge a little on items that you'll wear for many seasons (coats, suits) and less on basic building blocks (t-shirts, black tights, white shirts). Don't break the bank on jeans, but spend as much as you can comfortably afford on good footwear. You'll never regret it and you'll look sharp everytime!

The Accidental Redhead

Tomorrow is my wedding anniversary! In honor of the occasion I would like to tell you about my foray into the world of permanent hair color. I had my hair colored for the wedding and its impact on me went pretty deep. I wrote an essay about it which was read to a small audience at Kelly Writers House. Here is an excerpt. Enjoy!

From salt and pepper to paprika in less than a day. A short, strange trip fueled by vanity. Okay, so I’m vain. I’ve seen too many awful photos of myself lately to hold on to high falutin’ principles. A silver halo glows from photos of me taken at Jocie’s barbecue last summer and Chelsea’s birthday party six months ago.

I earned every one of those gray hairs on the job battling the cubiquivalents of Darth Vader and Lex Luthor. As my hair got grayer I became prouder. It meant that I was triumphing over the bullshit. However, faced with the prospect of a protracted job search, I had wondered if dyeing my hair would increase my odds of success against the competition – the cheaper 30-somethings. I consulted several rinsed, streaked and highlighted friends; all of who emphatically said “dye it!” I declined.

I feel like a 30-year-old – I’m in good health and think I look pretty good in my skinny jeans. So what happened? Did I fall for the profusion of women’s magazine covers with headlines in primary colors that shriek “Look ten years younger in three minutes!” or “Look ten years younger instantly!” Now, if it took me ten years to add these smile lines and gray hair, all the things that mark natural aging, how can they be erased instantly? Are we talking about time travel? Does going back to 1993 have the same impact on the body as Botox or Restylene?

I am marrying a man who prefers the smudges of gray among my curls. He’s loved my smile, my style and my eyes for many years and thinks that I’m still smokin’. So, why did I do this? I don’t want to look like Gwyneth, Reese, or Beyonce. I was thrilled when Jamie Lee Curtis let her hair go gray. It was a bold move by a secure woman. But – I’m secure, too – aren’t I? Consider this:

I was an often-teased skinny kid in a pre-Twiggy universe. Could have been a stand-in for a “Save the Children” ad even though I had a wrestler’s appetite.

Flat-chested in a high school gym class of C cups. Blithely ignored by horny neighborhood boys who ogled my Marilyn-shaped mother.

I’m getting older.

Did I ever get over being younger?

The wedding outfit is Old Navy Sweetheart jeans, gauzy white top, and silver sandals. But the copperhead is a growing concern. Will the wedding photos will be ruined? Should I call them off?

What can I use to darken my hair? Do I have a gel, cream, mousse or spray that will lend a temporarily deeper hue? How can I go brown? What’s under the kitchen sink? I thought about all the hair products that I’ve tossed out over the years – jars and tubes of defrizzing gels, texturizers, hairspray, mousse, deep conditioners, pomades, oils. What do I have now? Coconut scented shampoo, conditioner. No help there. What’s in the fridge? And, if I use it, will I attract bees?

Do I need more makeup today? Bronzing powder over the foundation? Kohl eyeliner? More mascara? Shimmering lips? What lipsticks do I have? Should I whip out the 12-year–old tube of Viva Glam? Is Diva too impudent for a mid-summer afternoon? Is X-S excessive?

Too late for a do-over. The conventional advice is that a bride should not make a dramatic change to her look the day before the wedding. Beauty experts counsel that hair color and style experiments are best done a couple of weeks ahead. It gives you a chance to scream, cry, cut or rip it off. Slick it back or tease it. If you don’t like bombshell blonde, go for punk rocker black. Buy a wig. Get a faux hawk. Try again.

Epilogue: My hair remained auburn into September. I embraced it more with each passing day, every compliment, every second glance. They said I looked ten years younger. I enjoyed the ego that I denied myself decades ago. The world is indeed a carousel of color.

What's News?

Casual Friday is making an impact! Readers are connecting to their inner glamazons and this fashionista is reaching a wider audience! Holla!

One reader bought her first pair of Chucks. Zappos is sending her a cool pair of low tops in a green, coral and orange tropical print that suit her sunny personality, love of the beach and preference for tropical drinks. I hope she enjoys wearing them.

I bought another pair of Chucks last week. Black and white low tops that look like saddle shoes for lead guitarists. It was a surprise find at TJ Maxx. There were also icky "flesh" colored sneakers that looked like Band Aids with laces. I've never met a living soul who had that color flesh.

Another reader bought a maxi-dress and is hooking up her look for special occasions with a sexy little jacket and glamorous wedge sandals. She will not use her evening bag to cover her behind (see June 6 post).

I love hearing from you, so please keep posting comments and sending emails. Thanks!

Walk This Way

Comfortable shoes could be a trend in the Fall! In the Sunday, June 28 NY Times Style section’s “Pulse” column, a mini piece appeared about lace up shoes. Oxfords, lace ups – specifically men’s style shoes. It cited a right-on rant by Andre Leon Talley on Vogue.com that noted how women have become fashion lemmings. He called out shoes that would better serve as “torture chambers” when he wrote, “Too many career women look like a herd of fashion beasts, aping one another in impractical shoes….”

I would go one step further and ask why any woman would buy and wear a pair of shoes that look like demented playground equipment. Think about jungle gyms, monkey bars and sliding boards on steroids that recall a bad acid trip, a lingering nightmare, or an early Betty Boop cartoon where the shoes come alive after midnight and chase our heroine through the streets. How far can you walk? Can you stand up straight? Most importantly, can you run for the train or from a creepy date?

I love heels and wear them regularly, but I refuse to be hobbled by stupid shoes. However, this does not mean that sensible granny shoes are my fate. Oxfords and saddle shoes can be kinda funky. I loved them on Janelle Monae in her “Many Moons” video (check it out on You Tube). I like the androgynous look, but it's not for everyone. Although these shoes are already a smash hit in the UK and the number of fans in downtown NYC is growing, most women will likely bypass this trend. Not me.

I've worn saddle shoes and heartily embraced the resurgence of Hush Puppies in the 1990s. I still have a pair of their two-tone cream and ginger suede oxfords. And I'm absolutely devoted to Converse. I'm looking forward to the arrival of wingtips for women.

After reading the column I checked the Internet for prices, styles and colors. The brands that I found, Charles Tyrwhitt (made in London), Dieppa Restrepo (hand made in Mexico), and s/sense (made in Portugal), are pretty slick. Unfortunately, all of the shoes that I liked best were in the $200 price range. A pair of Kenneth Cole was discounted to $100. I'll wait for the knock-offs.

Click here and scroll through the photos at Governor's Island for a better look at these shoes. There are lots of pics here, but I think you'll enjoy them all.

Scent-sational!

With love to the over-scented - here's a new fragrance and ad campaign just for you.

Ubiquitous - A remarkable scent that trails you into the dark musty urinals of the subway, and triggers sneezes during staff meetings.

Ubiquitous - Wafts into your unsuspecting nostrils from a hungover, barely washed co-worker who arrived at work early because she spent the night three blocks away at the drummer’s apartment.

Ubiquitous - The extraordinary scent that surrounds you at the Thanksgiving dinner table because Aunts Addie and Wilma, cousin Queena and the newly blond twins are wearing the body lotion, body powder and eau de parfum that Granddad gave each of them for Mother’s Day.

Ubiquitous - Wherever there’s a breath, there is Ubiquitous. It throttles you in the elevator and lingers innocently in your throat as you gulp down a lunch time chicken wrap.

Ubiquitous - Wraps itself around you like a fake Hermes scarf, treading into your hair, your leather jacket.

An enduring memory, an assault of fragrance. Indelicate, predictable, overripe and ambitious. Unforgettable. The scent of receptionists, trade school students and clubbers worldwide.

The scent of a hasty cab ride home on a brunchless Sunday morning. The scent that whispers, “Hey, sailor . . .”

Ubiquitous - Jumpstarting headaches since 2007. Answering the question, “Is that Febreze?” since 2004. Announcing your presence two minutes before the click-step of your stilettos since 2002. Making eyes tear since 2000. Making it difficult to conceal the tricks and tracks of the unfaithful since 1999.

Buffalo Exchange

Who isn’t on a budget these days? In 2009 when you’re grateful to have a job, you’ve gotta look at controlling costs. However, it is important to remember that cost-cutting does not mean becoming being frumpy dumpy schlumpy. There are lots of places to shop where you can fill a bag with current, gently worn clothing that speaks to the devastating diva that I know you are.

If you haven’t heard of or been to Buffalo Exchange, I suggest you drop everything, lace up your Chucks, and head over to the 1700 block of Chestnut Street. Wear something that you can wriggle out of easily because you’ll be headed to the dressing rooms.

Buffalo Exchange is a resale shop for men and women where customers can buy, sell and trade (see their website for more information). The items are always fashionable and you can routinely find labels such as BCBG Max Azria, Kenneth Cole, J. Crew, Max Studio, Free People, Levi's, and Seven for all Mankind. Their jeans collection is second to none that I’ve seen in resale; the store has an ample supply of skinny, wide leg, boot cut, black, white, indigo, faded…everything but Mom jeans!

Buffalo also carries unique women's t-shirts, including lightweight graphic tees that are perfect for summer. The shirts are often new and thankfully free of slogans such as “I’m With Stupid” or “Kiss Me I’m Irish.” The tees pictured are for my upcoming summer vacation. Each one is new with a less than $20 price tag.

My biggest score from Buffalo was a 36" square navy blue silk Nicole Miller scarf that is a homage to St. Joseph's Preparatory School in Philadelphia. The scarf is illustrated with images of the Philadelphia skyline, rowers in the Schuylkill river, the school seal and mascot, books, and of course, sports equipment. Got it for $24.

Hip young staff is always helpful without helicoptering. The store's soundtrack is usually fabulous (Wilson Pickett, Ella & Louis, Talking Heads, Sinatra). Dresses. Jackets. Shoes. Bags. Fishnet stockings. Get there now before the recessionistas snatch up all the good stuff! After shopping, you'll still have cash for lunch.

Wedding Dress Blues

It’s June and someone recently asked me what I thought of wedding dresses. You know, those overpriced confections that are the stuff of little girls’ dreams. The frothy, silky, trussed-up lacy things that make otherwise sensible women submit to a year of fad diets, painful sessions with personal trainers, as well as dermabrasion, waxing, boob jobs and other forms of contemporary beauty torture.

As a bride who chose not to wear traditional bridal finery, I never gave them much thought. They were fine for other women, but not for me. I think that the most important part of the wedding is the vow to love and care for one another.

Here are some of my issues with wedding dresses:

Cost: the average wedding dress costs $800-1,500; the average designer wedding dress is $3,000. Can you say mortgage payment? I’d rather keep the roof over my head than shell out for a dress that I’ll only wear once. Besides, today’s divorce statistics say that the wedding dress will become an unpleasant memory for half of all brides.

Lack of subtlety: you can’t slip quietly into a room wearing it; too much rustling and swishing.

Vulnerability: traditional ivory/white dresses are targets for a red wine spill. And when that happens, how many folks will grab their dinner napkins, race to the bar for bottles of seltzer and help a sista out?

Last week I read an article in Newsweek that came late to the fact that modern brides are forgoing frilly, virginal dresses in favor of modern designs that don’t subscribe to the notion of the princess bride. Women are choosing lacy minis, sleek column dresses, and tailored pantsuits. This isn't news - Bianca Jagger wore a white YSL pantsuit when she married Mick in 1971. And although the marriage didn’t work out she made a strong statement for individuality.

Consider this - in some Asian cultures red is a traditional bridal color. It is thought to bring good luck, joy and happiness. What a great way to be unique! And, isn't that what every bride wants?

Sixteen Hundred Below

I recently visited a retro clothing and antique furniture shop in South Philly. Sixteen Hundred Below is in the basement of a carpet shop at the now hip intersection of Tasker Street and East Passyunk Avenue. The designer/buyer, Maria Furey, is a warm, amiable South Philly native who will make you feel like an old friend. This fun little shop stocks clothing from the 1950s, '60s and '70s, as well as good old-fashioned furniture and housewares that will remind you of Sundays at Aunt Lucille's house in 1964.

You should know that I don't like cookie-cutter looks. "Me-too" is not me. I prefer to put a personal stamp on my outfits, and I'm drawn to places where I can find playful but versatile pieces for my wardrobe.

At Sixteen Hundred Below I found funky double knit dresses, some jazzed with gold lame or synthetic jewels that my mod mom would have worn in the mid-60s, silky shirt dresses perfect for a candlelight dinner at home, and delicate, gauzy pastel nightgowns like those that my happily single Aunt Julia wore each evening. Their menswear collection skews 1970s. Burgundy velour suits, flowered or plaid shirts, and jackets that will remind you of Starsky and Hutch or The Streets of San Francisco. All clothing is clean and pressed and neatly hung in strategic spots around the store.

I combed each rack thoroughly and found an extremely cool black handknit cardigan with rows of fat black loops at the collar and cuffs that are reminiscent of the puffs on a pampered poodle's ankles. I also found an absolutely amazing black leather circle skirt. The hem hits the lower calf and the look is very flattering. I'm planning to wear it with my black Tony Lama boots in the fall. I can't wait to see what her vintage coat collection will be this Winter!

I'm Not From Missouri, So Don't Show Me

Thursday evening I was at the Second Street El stop when I spotted a young couple headed for what looked like Date Night No. 1. They were dressed for dinner: he in a dark suit and shirt sans tie; she in a lightweight form-fitting minidress and heels. Emphasis on mini. She had a nice figure, good legs and youth on side, but then she started climbing the stairs. With the first step, she covered her behind with her purse, and held it there during her careful ascent to the street.

Style Note: If you're fully dressed, but have to cover your butt to keep your business to yourself, the dress is too short. If anyone can effortlessly spot your dainties/unmentionables/silkies or lack thereof, the dress is too short!

Her vain attempt to cover up tells me that very little thought went into her choice of attire. Perhaps it was her date's idea, or maybe her girlfriends cheered her on. Every woman wants to look good on a date; every woman wants to stun, stop traffic, and turn heads when she's out with that special someone. Realistically, though, a teeny bit of modesty is good. Mystery can be sexy.

Don't leave yourself vulnerable to drafts in air conditioned restaurants, cold seats on the subway, and unsolicited stares and comments. Slip into a maxidress (see May 23 post), a hot pair of dark wash jeans, fierce heels and a low-cut lacy blouse, or the ubiquitous LBD. I guarantee you won't have to use your purse for anything but carrying date night necessities: lipstick, cellphone, keys, and cab fare.

Big Red & Me

Food, beverages, books, notebook, pens, makeup case, shoes, umbrella, sunglasses, business card holder, wallet, cell phone, and a tin of Altoids. Sometimes a belt, or deodorant for really sticky summer days.

I carry a lot of stuff. I have long commute to a job in a remote location so I carry most of this stuff with me everday. There was a time when I carried as many as three bags a day. Although the bags were stylish, I felt like a pack animal. It's hard to glide elegantly along the city streets when you've got shoulder straps criss-crossing your chest a la Rambo.

I tried to manage by purchasing several larger purses. The orange patent leather tote--very cute but not very secure. The big black faux leather structured bag--great looking but the cheap fabric lining is in shreds which makes it difficult to find smaller items. I carried an enormous, indestructible black nylon Lands End tote for a couple of years--it was functional but boring. The coolest of the big bags was the gold metallic tote that got me through summer school at Wharton in 2005. I could carry a toddler in it.

Then Big Red entered my life. I spotted it at Loehmann's in Drexel Hill about a month ago on a day when little else in the store inspired me. It was lying in a pile of handbags on a "sale" table buried under putrid pink purses, citrus colored clutches, and an occasional basic black shoulder bag. It caught my eye by flashing touches of chrome, and beckoned me to stroke its soft tomato-red pebbled leather. I unzipped it, peeked inside and found a sturdy cotton gabardine lining, two zippered compartments and a slot for my business cards. The space inside was cavernous--a day tripper's dream come true. I knew that I could find a place for it in my closet.

The price was right, and the color works with everything that I own. The flexible style works well with suits, jeans, and dresses. The adjustable shoulder strap presents carrying options, and I only carry one bag now!

I've missed Loehmann's presence in Center City since it closed two years ago. I spent hours in their Chestnut Street store trying on purses, stalking overpriced bags by Michael Kors, Furla, Coach, and others while waiting for a price drop. So, if you're looking for a great bag at an amazing price, jump into the Jeep and head to the Hill--Drexel Hill, that is. You might get lucky, too!

Going to the Max

Talk about cover ups! One of my favorite items of the season is the maxidress/skirt. How wonderful is it? You can hide your lower imperfections - or unshaved legs - in favor of showing off toned arms, a sexy back, or a gorgeous swan-like neck. I have seen fabulous maxidresses at Macy's, Daffy's, Arden B, Ann Taylor Loft, and countless other stores and websites, many at wallet-friendly prices. They are available in zesty summer colors and patterns, and you will find one that looks absolutely smashing on you. It is casual elegance at its best.

I love maxiskirts in ethnic prints and gypsy florals, but I bought one in solemn black cotton jersey. It's got swish and I will be wearing it with attitude - and gladiator sandals - but on its own it's not an attention getter. This skirt is for Casual Fridays at the office. I'll wear it with a body skimming t-shirt layered over a tank top, throw on a "LOOK AT ME" necklace and carry on with the day. The skirt will flutter with every step and make me look as if I'm floating along the city streets.

This look flatters most women. It's comfortable, sexy but not vulgar, and it keeps the guys guessing. I wore them in the 1970s to high school graduations and college classmate weddings. My favorite was a one shoulder cotton jersey number that I wore to Linda Casey's wedding to a young Navy captain in 1974. I was barely out of my teens and the event was grimace inducing, but the dress got attention. (Probably because it was a very conservative church.)

So, if you're stumped for the perfect look for cousin Mimi's wedding, Jess's graduation party, or the charity garden party, consider going to the max. Just be sure to try it on in a mirror before committing. You may have to adjust for your height or body shape to ensure that your new maxi doesn't wear you!

This Old Rag?

Comfort clothes. Baggy sweatshirts, shapeless old sweaters, mangy bathrobes. Faded colors, flaked off letters, holes, strings, missing buttons and broken zippers. Frayed collars, cutoff sleeves. Old friends. Stretched out, broken-in soft. Cozy. Non-binding, forgiving.

Everyone has a couple of these pieces. Stuff you wear on snow days. Bad days. Need-a-hug days. Broken heart weekends. These pieces won't lengthen your legs, suck in your gut or boost your bust, but they will never end up in a landfill.

I have an old cherry red terry bathrobe with strings hanging from the collar, sleeves and belt. In addition to an embroidered bouquet of daisies on the pocket it also sports a quarter-sized hole at the right shoulder seam. But it's warm and thirsty like a bath towel, always welcoming. The robe has no stories to tell, has never lead a double life. It's never traveled outside of the dryer.

I bought it many years ago to wrap myself in after summer showers. When asked if I plan to replace it, my response is "not really." I usually find wads of tissues, earplugs, tweezers, and eyeglasses in the pockets. Never a vial of Chanel No. 5 or a Cartier "Love" bracelet.

It's shabby but familiar. My old friend. I guess I could trim the strings and repair the hole, but who does it have to impress? It's here for me when I'm tired and hungry. It's here when I can't decide, when I don't want to decide, when I couldn't care less, and when I care too much.

What's your favorite piece of comfort clothing? What do you wear when you're diving into a bowl of your favorite comfort food? What do you reach for when you're recharging at home - relaxing your head? I'd love to know!

My Mother the Muse

In the mid-1960s there was a horrifying moment on TV, a short-lived sitcom, “My Mother the Car,” starring an extremely young Jerry Van Dyke. The premise of the show was that Joe Sitcom’s deceased mother had been reincarnated as a talking 1928 Porter convertible automobile.

My mom would have never consented to reincarnation as a 40 year-old hoopdie – the automotive equivalent of an old lady wearing a faded flowered smock with strings hanging from the hem. She would have agreed to nothing less than a ’64 Ford Mustang convertible dipped in Cherries-In-The-Snow red.

She was a modern woman decked out in form fitting pantsuits, fluffy Motown wigs and short skirts. She didn’t seem out of place in the Pepsi Generation. To my preteen eyes she was the epitome of glamour, the essence of charm and excitement. She represented the best of Mademoiselle or Vogue, moving through life with class, grace and style.

She never left the house without lipstick, never left the house without draping on her style, her swing, her surefootedness. Quirky and independent, always noticed – never a wallflower. She was always ready, whole, when she left the house.

I look in the mirror and see her face, especially when I’m smiling and wearing red, red lipstick. I feel her wrapping me in timeless merino wool coats and colorful cashmere sweaters from the best department stores in 1960s D.C.: Garfinckel’s, Woodward & Lothrop, and Lansburgh’s.

Mom haunts me whenever I go shopping. Mom haunts me whenever I’m dressing for an event. Mom haunts me as I clean out my closets, scolding and warning me about bad taste, unfortunate style and lack of style. Her mischievous smile is in the sunbeam that shines on the pile of discarded baggy capri pants, summer skirts that make my butt look big, faded tie dye frocks and items in universally unflattering colors such as salmon and beige. Her light-hearted laugh echoes through my cedar closet as I recall her story of the church lady’s fur stole that was reminiscent of Toto or Benji.

My Mother the Muse inspired who I am today. My closets and my life are full because of her, although I most enjoyed wearing her Cherries-In-The-Snow lip print on my cheek – her seal of approval.

Happy Mother's Day, Mom.

Aw-w-w Chucks!

My mom wouldn't let me wear Chuck Taylors when I was growing up--she thought they were ugly. She preferred Keds, so that's what I wore. They were cute, ladylike, and came in every color in the rainbow. Through the years I had pairs in navy, red, aqua, white and spring green, but my heart belonged to Chucks. It was like dating Steady Freddy but lusting after Randy Ricky.

Chucks are perenially cool--the shoes of basketball stars and rebels. On the street they were called "gang wars." I bought my first pair as an adult in the 1980s, and have kept at least one pair in my shoe collection at all times over the past 25 years. I have eight pair in rotation right now, including chocolate leather high tops and licorice black leather low tops for winter cool. Last summer, while shopping at Filene's Basement in DC, I found "superstar" Chucks--white canvas sprinkled with dozens of tiny silver stars--and added them to my collection.

I bought another pair last weekend. They are black canvas with tiny multi-colored loops scattered all over. Got them at Kohl's. I'm not a Kohl's shopper, but I was chasing a skirt that I saw in Vogue. Didn't find the skirt, but I found a pair of funky red high top Chucks in the men's shoe department.

So, why Chucks? I prefer a little sass with my casual wear. They look great with jeans and add a rocker's edge. I rarely wear gym shoes if I'm not at the gym. Why so many pairs? They're like Lays potato chips--I can't have just one!

When I was in Rome last year I was surprised to see that Chucks were everywhere--worn with very skinny jeans on young men and women. I'm sure that I'll see them on the streets of Paris when I'm there this summer. If you want to see them in action, check out old NBA footage or the film version of West Side Story.

Almost Famous

I was walking down Walnut Street this afternoon with no particular destination when I was stopped by a fabulous looking woman who said that I looked "amazing," and asked to interview me about my personal style. I was surprised and flattered and of course, agreed to the interview. Turns out she's Cynthia Gouw, the host and executive producer of Snapglow.tv on Philly.com.

She got me on a good look day. I felt great and it is the day before my birthday. The weather was scrumptious and I walking into town from the Cezanne and Beyond exhibit.

I was wearing Express skinny jeans which I had cuffed at the ankle, a black lacy MaxStudio short sleeved tunic with a black lace cami underneath, five year old black patent leather flats and black fishnet knee highs. My accessories of choice were oversized black sunglasses from Ann Taylor Loft and the luscious pebbled gray shoulder bag that I bought in Rome last year.

Ms. Gouw asked about the choices I made when I got dressed this morning, and here are my practical answers:

• I live in jeans whenever I'm not on the job because they are versatile and comfortable
• My jeans are cuffed because they are too long
  
• Flats mean I can walk farther faster
• Fishnet knee highs peeking out of the shoe funk up the look--give it an edge
• Large sunglasses offer more protection from UV rays
• The tunic is making its debut today after being purchased over a year ago
  

She asked permission to ask my age and I happily told her that I will be 55 tomorrow. I also told her mid-life women can still be sexy and stylish, and I'm out to prove it, but they've got to step away from shapeless sweatsuits, boxy sweaters, Mom jeans and gym shoes.

I only wish she had asked me about my lipstick! I was wearing Bobbi Brown's "Cassis," a rich rusty-red color that I admired on my gorgeous friend Jocie. The lipstick added polish to the look.

Ms. Gouw says that she will let me know when the piece is posted. Stay tuned!