A Penney for Your Thoughts

Boy, did I get a surprise when I checked out JC Penney recently. I haven’t been a Penney’s shopper for decades.  Didn’t even know that they’d changed their moniker to “JCP.”  My memory of its stores included style-free women’s clothing that was decidedly uncool. So, although I’d heard about Penney’s hip new TV campaign, it was the opening of a new store in a nearby mall that really piqued my curiosity. 

I walked into a clean, brightly lit store brimming with the cutest, most colorful fashions!  And everything’s affordable, with most dresses in the $25-35 price range. I found good quality and expanded sizes! 

Unique items from Nicole Miller, Lulu Guinness, Bisou Bisou, Allen B, and Mac + Jac fill the racks.  My favorite piece is a Nicole by Nicole Miller leather shoulder bag in royal blue, emerald green, or Sunkist orange.  Roomy enough for everyday use and less than $100!   

Here’s a partial list of the goodies I saw: 

• Adorable '60s-inspired A-line and sheath dresses
• Black lace pencil skirts (my favorite daytime style statement).
• Sexy black pleather dresses, jackets, and skirts (this is some fine faux skin).
• Classic wrap dresses (pick up one today--you’ll be gorgeous in it tomorrow).
• Strapless party dresses in gorgeous jewel tones (the 2012 holiday party season is just about over, but now’s the time to stock up for future occasions).
• Pine green suede tuxedo jacket with leather piping
• Super fun sequined tops and skirts (great for one more round of “Auld Lang Syne” and one more glass of champagne).
• Tweedy cuffed slim trousers (you know they’d be perfect with your favorite booties).

Budget-minded fashionistas should pay a visit!

Happy Holidays from Casual Friday!

There’s a kinda wide-eyed open-mouth wonder for many during the Christmas holiday season.  Breathtaking fantasy land shop windows, outrageously delicious smells, and twinkling lights on quiet nights can be mesmerizing.

Here’s the three-year-old me on Christmas.  Daddy is in the background.  Check out the look of absolute amazement.  Happily overwhelmed, unsure what fabulous gift to play with first.  The tea set?  The silken haired doll wearing a pink lace pinafore?  What about that shiny red tricycle--can I ride it now??

My holiday wish for all includes enchantment, joy, and peace within.  Embrace your loved ones.  Let your inner child come out and play.

A Leaf from the Family Tree--Lucille!

Aunt Cille in the 1940s

Meet Lucille Faison, my great aunt, my grandmother’s sister and best friend.  Aunt Cille was a woman of constant style and good taste.  She was born in Winston-Salem NC, and settled in Washington DC as a young woman. 

I loved sleeping over at her apartment when I was a kid.  She always had a tin of barbeque Fritos waiting for me; her apartment was cozy and immaculate; she had a box stuffed with office supplies that I could use to explore my creativity--staplers, colored paper, pens and pencils, notebooks, and rulers.  Santa even visited me at Aunt Cille‘s!  One Christmas Eve when I was a very sleepy six-year old I thought I saw Santa leaving gifts under her pink artificial tree!  Probably one of her boyfriends wearing a red suit.

My auntie was tall (5’10”) and slim, and would have been a runway sensation in today’s world.  She was an elegant party girl who loved beautiful clothes, but couldn’t find any that fit well.  In the 1930s African-Americans weren’t permitted to try on clothing in DC department stores, so she created the wardrobe that she wanted.  She window-shopped exclusive shops, studied the structure and detail of garments she admired then went home and made them.  Her closets and armoire were stuffed with tasteful day dresses, gorgeous evening dresses, and Sunday-perfect suits. 

In her heyday she was the “hostess with the most-ess,” a popular dinner companion and dancing partner.  Her dance card was always filled, and her house parties featured riotous laughter over the card table, lots of trash talk and tales, and rockin’ good music. 

She worked as a housekeeper for decades for a wealthy family and raised their three children, but never lost her dignity and style.  Every day she dressed for work as if she was going to a high-paying office job.  Her prowess with a sewing machine inspired my Mom to get better acquainted with our Sears Kenmore sewing machine.  

Here's my favorite quote from her, “Good times don’t owe me a thing.”  I’ll drink to that!  She had the time of her life during her lifetime with no regrets.  Thanks, Aunt Cille, for modeling the graceful life.

Enjoy these pics of sassy, sensational Cille.

Aunt Cille (L) and her sister (R) and their beaus

Sunday Stylin'!

Necking!

Last month I bought two cute necklaces.  One is a vintage piece that grabbed my heart and makes me happy whenever I wear it.  It’s a heavy clear acrylic heart filled with crazy little gold flowers and triangles.  It swings from a long gold chain with the fervor of an intrepid heart, keeping its own rhythm.

The other piece is from contemporary jewelry designer Lenora Dame whose eye-catching creations caught my eye a few months ago.  These treasures can be found at Nordstrom, Anthropologie and Amazon.com as well as other fashionable retailers.  This necklace features clear glass beads stuffed with newsprint, alternating with big pearly beads.  I can add this piece to almost any outfit to make it an instant favorite!

The dainty gold chain and locket have been retired.  The contemporary statement is bold, sexy, interesting.  Check out the latest jewelry styles at your local retailer and create some excitement around your clavicle!

Let's Go Get Stoned

Rock and roll style is the stuff of legend and fodder for fantasies.  Guitar heroes and soul singers such as Hendrix, Prince, The Supremes, Sly Stone, and Madonna had profound influences on everyone's personal style.  Kinky, funky, cool.  Controversial, sexy.

A rock style retrospective takes you from neat little identical suits for men and bouffant hair, form-fitting satin dresses and inch-long lashes for women to feathers, leather, sequins, lace and denim for all.  I loved 1970s androgyny and was down with the grunge look which made everyone look like either a lumberjack or an orphan.

The Rolling Stones are celebrating their 50th anniversary this year and Thursday's NY Times featured a mini slide show of the group's styles over the years.  What a time capsule!  Who could forget Brian Jones's bowl haircut, Mick's body con jumpsuits that confirmed that he often went commando, or Keith's more recent turn as a pirate?  So, if you're reading this in your cubicle draped in drab gray and black duds, take a look at this and be inspired!

By the way, did you have a rock style icon?  Who was it?

My Favorite Item of Clothing

What else could a chilly Philly girl want?

Wait…I can only choose one?

Every cashmere sweater that I own is a favorite item of clothing!  Most of them were snagged at resale stores for between $5-20.  I’ve collected them in a rainbow of colors and assortment of styles.  I have long sleeves, ¾ length sleeves, sleeveless shells, v-necks, turtlenecks, crewnecks, boyfriend style pullovers, sexy wraps, and traditional cardis. 

Why do I love them?  They’re as soft as kittens but won’t shred my curtains.  I can cocoon in cashmere, cozied in an otherworldly warmth.  Cashmere is chic!  Cashmere sweaters are low maintenance!  Yes, you can and should hand wash cashmere.  Forget about dry cleaning!  It’s important to keep PERC out of your personal environment and even more important to keep your money in your pocket. 

The best deals can be found at resale shops in July when most fashionistas are focused on airy sundresses and halter tops. This is when gently used cashmere sweaters languish on racks.  My favorite spots in Philly to find these treasures include Second Time Around (STA) on Chestnut Street near 18th, Green Street Consignment at 7th and South Streets, and The Wardrobe Boutique at 19th and Spring Garden Streets.  Tip--when you go to STA check out the $5 rack in the back of the store.  Don’t be afraid to pick up something that has a bit of dirt--check to see if you can rub some it out before buying.  If it’s not an ink, blood, or red wine stain, you’ve pretty much got it made.

One of my co-workers recently said, “How many more cashmere sweaters do I need?”  My immediate thought was, “Why limit yourself?” 

London Calling

I spent eight delightful days in London last August, and the trip was nothing short of amazing.  (The Tate Modern! Windsor Castle! Big Ben! Trafalgar Square! Soho! The Tower of London!)  I’ve wanted to see London ever since 1960s British rock and roll invasion hit me like an 18-wheeler.  (The Beatles! The Rolling Stones! The Who! Cream!) 

My visit was sandwiched between the Olympics and the Paralympics.  What an extraordinarily exciting time!  Here’s some of what I saw of this amazing city.  And yes, I’m planning my return trip.  London rocks!

She's Baa-a-a-c-k!

I was never far from the computer, but far from my flow.  I'm parachuting back to it--moving towards the color and the heat.  "Casual Friday" is back! So, if you want to read opinions about style--I've got them for you!  If you need sagacious sartorial advice--I've got that too!

I'm happy to be back, and I hope that we can hang out together. I can't wait to help you procrastinate at work or get through that long line at your favorite food truck!

Good Deeds

Good deeds can go beyond telling your best friend that she has spinach in her teeth. Here’s a fabulous example from my professional life.

On a Tuesday morning in June a co-worker asked me to listen to a voice mail she’d received. The message was from a homeless high school student she’d befriended. The girl explained in a teary voice that she had nothing to wear to her graduation that afternoon and asked Peggy if she could help. She had earned a full four-year scholarship to a small private college and wanted to attend her graduation to mark this milestone.

I knew I’d be able to find something for her at my favorite resale spot, The Wardrobe Boutique. The store opened at 11:00 AM. We hatched a plan for the girl to meet us at the office. At 9:00 AM we returned her call, got her dress and shoe sizes, and I was dispatched to do that stylist thing.

At the boutique I sifted through a rack full of trendy floral and tribal print dresses, considered a few adorable mini dresses and settled on a sweet little dress from The Limited with a cream and black windowpane check skirt, empire waist and a black halter top. Perfect for a teenager! I found a pair of gently used Coach black patent leather platform pumps that would be smashing with the dress, and my wonderful ladies at the boutique donated jewelry to add a little sparkle.  My agency picked up the tab for the entire outfit.

Meanwhile, back at the office, our soon-to-be high school grad became the center of attention. She had been given a bouquet of fresh red and white carnations and a “Happy Graduation” card upon arrival. She was surrounded by beaming staff members and wore a bright smile as wide as the Grand Canyon.

I pulled the goodies out of my bag, and my colleagues exclaimed over how cute the dress was. Unfortunately, the dress was too small, so Peggy and I grabbed our happy hostage and dashed back to the Boutique.

I found another dress while our student looked around, a cute little black flapper-inspired mini with an adorned neckline. It fit perfectly and showed off her mile-long legs. She loved it!!  Boutique staff selected a pair of funky dangly earrings to accessorize. Once we got her properly dressed Peggy and I hustled her up to Temple University where the graduation ceremony would take place.

I smiled as she gracefully strode away from us into Mitten Hall. She was absolutely gorgeous for her graduation. She’s off to a promising start, and we’ll be “mother-henning” her for the next four years. I'm looking forward to it.

It's About Time!

Gorgeous boomer women rejoice!  American Apparel wiped the sleep from its eyes, and found a fabulous adult woman with smashing style for its latest ad campaign.  I can’t remember the last ad campaign for any popular clothing retailer that didn’t feature the latest in a line of Lolitas. 

Retailers who still have their heads in the sand check this--boomers have the bucks and will spend them on stuff! Wake up!  Court us!

This is a good start.  With this one savvy move, American Apparel just gained a new customer--me.  Read more about their new 60-year old model here. 

Another Golden Oldie

Today’s color jeans are vivid reminders of the wonderful Wrangler.  Wrangler was THE name in casual/Western wear for men and women and a very popular brand during the 1960s-80s.  You just couldn’t be cute without a pair.  They were available in a rainbow of colors and variety of lengths--Bermuda-length, short shorts, and long.  And they were cheap, cheap, cheap!

I lived in them when I wasn’t wearing my boring school uniform.  I had pairs in denim blue, white, sky blue, mint julep green, and cherry red.  My friends wore them in sunny yellow, cotton candy pink, and Hershey bar brown.  I wore the mint green shorts through my college years.  They grew so soft and comfortable over time that they felt custom made.  I wore them until they were faded and in shreds.

Here’s a pic of the teenage me and my buddies at Hershey Park.  Three of the five of us are Wrangler-clad.  Also check out the pic of my college buddy in the navy and white striped Wranglers!  Crazy!

And yes, there’s nothing new under the fashion sun.

Frosted Frocks

July.  Hotter than Hades.  Public nudity can be tasteless, but during a heat wave a body is tempted to wear the lightest pieces of clothing it can find. 

Look no further than the white dress for a lighter-than-air look.  It’s everywhere this season, and just slipping one over your head on a sweltering day can make you feel as cool as a snowflake. 

White clothing can be a pain to maintain, particularly for city dwellers.  Seems like you become a magnet for splashes and stains of mostly unknown origins.  But white dresses look fresh on everyone, and now’s the time to grab one (stores are marking down and clearing out summer wear).  Here are some of my faves:  Jessica Simpson Cap Sleeve Belgium open knit design - $79; Shabby Apple.com Palantine Hill fitted sheath dress - $85; INC International Concepts Sleeveless Lace Sheath dress at Macy’s - $74; and Old Navy pintucked Dobby Sundress - $20.

Smiles of a Summer Day

Once you find the white dress of your dreams, keep the Tide pen and a bottle of non-chlorine bleach at hand.  

Blazing a New Trail

Here’s a little advice for the woman who wants to rock her blazer.  Blazers can work overtime for both career and weekend if you are creative with your first layer.

First tip--leave the everyday button down in the closet.  If you love wearing blouses with a blazer, opt for a tuxedo style, something lacey, or even a cute blouse with an outrageous center ruffle.  These simple touches will make “traditional” a little less so.

Great for 9 to 5

Second tip--if you prefer a more casual look, pull on a graphic tee.  Or, think about an adorned tee.  Other good choices are a ruffled Henley or a glitter-infused pullover.  Check your closet for something that’s considered evening wear.  You know, something satiny or retro cool with sequins.  If your blazer is tweed, wear a lightweight sweater shot through with metallic thread or a rocker-chic tee with rivets, rhinestones, or studs.  Layer a ferocious animal print underneath for the easiest edge.  

Great for 5 to 9

Third tip--accessorize!  Let bold necklaces of marble-sized ceramic beads nestle in your clavicle.  Loop a funky rayon or silk ethnic-inspired scarf around your neck.  Ten Thousand Villages is a fabulous resource for both. 

Show everyone how special you are, make sure that they see you!  The point is to rock the blazer.  Be chic, be unique!

Peacocks

Most guys are comfortable in shades of brown, grey, and black.  Dark suits with uninspired pastel shirts for business and varied shades of grey with dark denim for weekends.  Not especially resplendent or memorable.  However, there is an trend that is turning traditional men’s looks on its pointy little head.  In Italy today uomini are wearing summer pants as vivid as the season’s favorite flowers.  They aren’t embarrassed or ashamed to wear pants in bright pink or bold lavender. 

Urban American men have long strutted in Technicolor finery.  Consider R&B performers in the 1950s, 60s and 70s--The Temptations, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, The Spinners, and Chi-Lites--who were always suited up in flamboyant outfits in teal, baby blue, or cherry red.  You may remember how everyday dudes from the car wash showed up at the club on Saturday nights in Easter egg-colored pimp daddy suits, or matchy-matchy ensembles in purple, royal blue, and sunset orange.

Smokey Robinson & the Miracles

Contemporary urban summer menswear is drenched in color.  Brothers in peach, lavender, and lemon yellow shorts with matching shirts are a typical sight.  These displays of color may appear less than masculine, but its lineage can be found in ancient civilizations where the colors and styles of clothing worn were indicative of one’s social status. 

Menswear designers are stepping deep into the Crayola box and playing with sticks of dazzling color.  Check out this link for more on the trend.  In a recent NY Times “On The Street” montage photographer Bill Cunningham stated that “The mirror of our age is not on women’s fashion--it’s on men’s….”  From everything I’m seeing on blogs and other media, he’s right. This trend will continue in 2013.

Males in full plumage--strutting, preening.  Captivating, colorful trend setters. 

Do you think the men in your life will adapt this style?  Would your dad or boyfriend wear a rose colored suit to work?

Gorgeous to the Maxx!

Maxi dresses continue to dominate the season.  This year’s versions can be found in colorful tribal prints, outrageous florals, inspired graphics, and simply saturated colors.  It’s a flattering style for most body types and lends a lady an air of elegance.

I scored this great dress on a weekend at the shore with friends.  During a break in the beaching we made a pilgrimage to TJ Maxx where I fell hard for this fabulous Calvin Klein frock.  This is a more sophisticated design than most of the casual maxis on the racks. It can go to theater, brunch, or Paris because it’s every woman’s go-to color--black--and its princess styling is classic.  I love it as a blank canvas for loads of fabulous accessories--silky scarves, neon hued belts, and head-turning statement necklaces.  A cute cropped cardi is the perfect topper.  I can wear high wedges or flat jeweled sandals with it although I chose to rock it with my favorite spring green Naya sandals.

Ch-ch-Chaka Khan…Chaka Khan

Chaka--then and now

As you may have heard or seen, the amazing singer who is known to annihilate microphones during recording sessions has transformed herself.  She ain’t “Chubby Chaka” no more!

As the dynamic front woman for the 1970s R&B band Rufus Chaka Khan rocked tight bell bottoms, leather chaps, and mini-tops that barely covered her midriff.  She seduced her audience with a powerful voice and a figure 8 figure.  But, time passed and that figure 8 grew exponentially. 

Fast forward to last week.  Chaka appeared on the season finale of “American Idol”  in a slinky mesh catsuit.  At age 59 her figure 8 is back--the hard-earned result of a health crisis.  I admire the discipline it took for her to bring it back.  Check out the pics of the fabulous Ms. Khan!

On "American Idol"

Stylin’ Color Tip--Cream of the Crop

Cream, also known as ivory, is a cool, calm color.  Neutrality begins here.  It’s the color of vanilla ice cream, almond milk, pearls.  This shade can brighten and frame your lovely face by casting a flattering halo around it.  White can sometimes be too harsh, but ivory/cream is gorgeous with most skin tones.  However, wearing head-to-toe cream can make you look like you’re ready to march down the aisle.

Try these color suggestions to tickle your ivories.  Rock your ivory frock with forest green and cornsilk yellow accessories.  Cornflower blue and cream are also lovely together.  Tangerine with ivory is very refreshing and, no, you won’t look like a Creamsicle.

Avoid combining ivory with brown or black.  These are snoringly bland combinations, and a fashionista should never be boring!

Stylin' Color Tip--Olive Doesn’t Have to be Drab!

Olive.  Army surplus jackets and martini toppers.  A neutral color that can confound even the most daring fashionista.  It’s not a glamorous color, usually not chosen for walks down the red carpet or attending royal weddings.  It’s boring.

But lots of us have a rough and tumble pair of olive cargo pants or a surplus-inspired jacket that can use a little spice.  To keep from looking drab, heat up your olives with cayenne, or subdue the shade with softer, more feminine hues.  A petal pink and celery floral print maxi dress will glow under an olive cardigan.  Coral jeans will sizzle with a tissue weight olive t-shirt.

This stylin' tip is designed to take you from basic to bodacious.  Live in color!

In Living Color: In the Navy

Remember when Dorothy opened her front door after landing in Oz?  Technicolor is where the fashion world lives this season.  Intense, amped-up color is on fingertips, eyelids, and in closets everywhere.  We’re told to turn up the volume on our wardrobes, and sometimes loud is fun.  But, if you’re shy or more traditional, you may find yourself wading in a sea of sleepy neutrals, blending into the background while bright sprays of psychedelic prints prance by.

I’ll share a little neutral know-how from In-Style magazine.  Their crew has great advice on working the neutrals.  Today’s focus is on navy--the color of tradition and conformity.

Navy makes everyone think of sailors, police officers, or Catholic school uniforms.  However, classic navy looks fresh when allowed to go a little nuts.  Most of us think of pairing navy with red, but there are other vibrant colors that make navy pop.  A jacket in Valencia orange can juice up a navy sheath dress, a double bubble pink pencil skirt will add snap to a fitted navy jacket, and a sleek kelly green cashmere cardigan will look great layered over a navy blue tuxedo blouse.  I love jewelry, and wouldn’t hesitate to wear stacks of gorgeous turquoise stones with a statement sapphire necklace (in my fantasy life).

So, go forth and be daring.  Punch up those neutrals and turn some heads!

Who You Calling a Fossil?

You are your bag; it broadcasts your story to the world.  Believe it or not, a bag reveals many facets of your personality.  Therefore, it should be a classic style to ground the look of anything you wear.  Every woman needs a bag that works as hard as she does. 

I found this dark tan pebbled leather Fossil messenger bag at a Ross discount department store.  In my experience Ross is a powerhouse for housewares, but pretty anemic in handbag selection.  So imagine my surprise when I spotted this fabulous bag on the rack!  It’s well constructed, with brass hardware, a sturdy woven canvas shoulder strap, lining, a generous external pocket (perfect for a notebook), and lots of inside pockets which make it easy for me to stay organized.  Check out the adorable charms on the side!  The jingle drives the annoying neighborhood dogs crazy, and that’s alright with me. 

This stylish workhorse compliments my everyday style, and is a bottomless pit.  It carries a wallet, lunch (and a snack), two cell phones, gym clothes, Altoids, hand cream, sunglasses--and I'm going to try to stuff the kitchen sink in there next week.

Walking Blues

Just got these adorable platform sandals from Naturalizer.  They have a strong 1970s vibe that recall KC & The Sunshine Band--“…I want to put on my my my my my Boogie Shoes!”  They are amazingly comfy so it’ll be hard not to boogie in them every day.

In this season of Rainbow Brite colors, this cool hue will be the perfect accent for everything in my summer closet.  Look for me on the next Soul Train train line in these kicks.  They’re just in time for my Summer in the City.

Here Comes the Bride

Ann and Dave (center) on their wedding day

Getting married is fun!  And, if that ain’t so, why do so many people do it?

The wedding day is a rosy high-wattage day for everyone involved, especially for brides.  Perfection is in order--everyone wants to look fabulous.  Women often rely on the ancient adage, “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” to be at their bridal best.  My friend Ann covered most of those bases when she visited The Wardrobe Boutique to pick out a wedding outfit for her marriage to her longtime partner.

The Boutique has a sweet selection of formal wear including bridal gowns which span the continuum from confection to sophistication, elegant ball gowns, and slinky cocktail dresses. Ann found a pale silver cocktail dress featuring an elegant capelet that framed a sexy deep V-back (something old). We also found a pair of never-worn silver high-heeled sandals to pair with that gorgeous dress (something new).  Her daughter chose a pair of dangling earrings with blue stones for her (something blue).  She also found a stunning royal blue halter dress for herself.

Once again, Ann worked the cheap chic angle and came out absolutely gorgeous.  The Boutique can meet many of your special occasion wardrobe needs, so bring that party invitation with you next time you stop in. Surprises await!

By all accounts, the wedding was a lovely beginning to a lifetime of love and laughter.  Best wishes to her and Dave!

3 by Three

Went to an amazing trunk show by 3 by Three yesterday.  What a treat!  3 by Three is a collaboration between three talented textile designers--Melissa D’Agostino (tie-dye inspired design for a new mind), Rachel Sherman, (funky, sexy, chic) and Janell Wysack (beautiful cozy wovens and knitwear), who brought their beautiful and stylish stuff to a house full of women seeking their own style. 

I drooled over ruched T-shirts and appliquéd pencil skirts in saturated colors, elegant but modern black silk LBDs that tickled and skimmed the body, cotton knit shifts in desert colors, and adorable little shrugs. All of the available pieces can be glammed up or dressed down.  My favorite item was Melissa’s cream- and slate-colored body-conscious maxi dress featuring a pattern that reminds me of a ribcage (so I‘m a little silly).

Here's one of Rachel's denim pencil skirts.  It's gorgeous, flattering, and I can't wait to wear it!  Also ordered one of Melissa's jersey knit hoodies.  I'll show it to you when it arrives.  It'll be great for summer travel!

These beautiful one-of-a-kind wearables celebrate some of the best of local design.  As 3 by Three’s promotional piece says: “...artisan fashion is alive and well in cities such as Philadelphia and across the country.”  Check out the website and see for yourself.  Click through and swoon!

Having A Fit--Jackets!

Spring is in the air!  My neighborhood is greening, and flowers are popping out everywhere.  You’re probably shopping for a couple of cute spring jackets, and I’ve got some great tips to help you choose the most flattering ones. 

Whether you’re at Macy’s or your favorite consignment shop, always remember to check the fit in these critical areas:

Shoulder line.  The shoulder line of any jacket should meet the edge of your shoulders.  For the most accurate gauge of overall fit, wear a top of the same weight you’ll wear underneath most often.  Be sure to look for tailored features such as a nipped waist, vertical seams, or panels that shape the jacket and give a skimming fit.

Reach.  Can you raise your arms without tightness through the shoulders and back?  If not, go up a size.  If a jacket pitches forward or rolls back on your shoulders as you move, put it back on the rack.  The fit will never be right--you‘ll look like you‘re wearing a sack.

Stance.  Stance is a tailoring term for the meeting point of the lapel and buttons.  Most women of average height or taller look fabulous in a one or two-button jacket because it creates a longer line.  The deep “V” draws the eye up and down and flatters a full bustline.  Shorter women and petites appear taller in a higher stance--at mid-chest--with small or medium width lapels and with three- or four-button styles.

Length.  Universally flattering jacket lengths include cropped (not shrunken) at or just below the waist, at the high hip to hipbone, at an inch below your bottom, and at fingertip length, meaning where your fingertips rest on your thigh when you stand with your arms relaxed and straight at your side.  Any jacket that ends at the widest point of your hips should go back on the rack regardless how flattering the color or how much of a bargain.  The jacket hem will draw the eye to that point and visually expand the area.  

Now you've got the info you need to choose a jacket that will add to your chic-ness.  Go forth and pick a topper as pretty as the first blossoms of the season.  You'll look marvelous!

I Know You Got Soul

So, what IS soul?  Is it Curtis Mayfield’s soaring tenor?  Is it the tilt of your head, the cadence of your voice?  Is it a raucous, knowing laugh shared by others in the know?  An unspoken language, a fraternal handshake? 

It’s more than a piece of clothing or accessory.  It’s the rhythm, the soundtrack to our lives.  It’s awareness and pride--head held to the sky.  It’s native, it’s genuine.  A badge of honor.
    
This way cool necklace was made by a Brooklyn artisan and is available from Etsy.  It was my Christmas present to myself and I can’t wait to show it off!

And The Real Winner Is….

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is fierce. No discussion.  No dispute.  No doubt.  For the 2012 Academy Awards she took the extraordinary step of going for the glam while leaving the wig at home.  Ms. Davis was stunningly genuine.  She rocked her natural hair, looking vital, youthful, and incredibly gorgeous in the process.

She ignored the ridiculous beauty standard that prods black women to glue and sew hair they bought onto their scalps, damaging their natural locks in the process.  When are we going to reject a foreign beauty standard that is completely irrelevant to us?  When will we embrace our unique and often breathtaking beauty?  We don’t need lace front wigs to be pretty!

Celebrities are now the standard bearers for style and behavior, taking over the role that was traditionally our mothers’, aunties’, and grandmothers’.  So we need to see more Viola Davises strutting the red carpet wearing glorious Afros of every circumference, locs, springy coils and twists, and intricately-designed cornrows that rival aerial views of Midwestern farms.

Yes, black women are naturally beautiful.  There should be no further questions.  Thank you, Ms. Davis for making that statement.

Surprises from Lands End

$85 at Lands End

What comes to mind when you think of Lands End?  Probably the “un-” words: unexciting, unimaginative, unfashionable, unflattering.  Elastic waist pull-on pants.  Box-shaped blouses.  Mom jeans.  Boating and rain gear.  Bulky parkas that give you that enviable Michelin Man silhouette.  Monogrammed everything.  Stuffy stuff.  Nothing edgy, pretty, or fun.  Well, guess what?  They’re pushing pretty dress this spring!  Hard to believe, but they’ve got dresses in flattering styles that you’ll want to wear.  Their latest catalog features gorgeous florals that rival the most vibrant gardens.  Dresses in jewel tones that feature sweet embroidered primroses.  Fitted plaid shirtdresses for the sexy preppy.  Look at this delightful frock (yes...frock). The catalog is in my left hand, the credit card is in my right. How can I resist?

The Diva Diaries--What I Wore to the Gym

A Valentine’s Day workout demands heart—preferably one that’s beating.  For last Tuesday’s masochistic marathon my workout wear covered all the traditional bases—a cherry red bandanna and a blue T-shirt sporting a big red heart.  The best thing about the heart was that it pointed the way in case CPR was needed.

At spinning on Thursday I was the Woman in Black.  I wore a black girl-shaped T-shirt emblazoned with a white “USF” and black padded bike shorts.  A pale gray bandanna atop my head did little to absorb the river of sweat and tears that poured down my face.  Black workout gear is the best choice for hiding sweat stains and making me look composed and utterly in control, even when my legs buckle as I walk out of the spinning studio after class.

I wrapped up my week at the gym today in a pair of black yoga pants, a thrifted T-shirt that speaks fondly of some little-known coffee shop in San Francisco, and my ever-present bandanna. Today was strength training and step class.  No drama, only pride in a butt well maintained.  I've earned the right to wear my Wonder Woman T-shirt.

Coach Boots!

Mama's gonna wear these forever!

Vintage Coach boots!  Yeah!  These boots walked my way from The Wardrobe Boutique and are like most vintage Coach items--classic, sophisticated, elegant, understated.  The leather is luxuriously smooth and the style--mid-calf, 3 1/2" heel, laces at the back, can be worn with tons of things in my overstuffed closet.  They'll be great with skinny pants tucked in, with knee length skirts and cute, colorful tights, and anything maxi.

This is one of the exciting finds that you can score at resale.  Come on down to the Boutique and I'll be your personal shopper!

The Hippest Trip In America

The Soul Train theme has been in heavy rotation in my head for the past two weeks.  Since Don Cornelius’s passing, everyone’s been buzzing about the soul music legends that appeared on the show.  Teddy Pendergrass, Barry White and The Love Unlimited Orchestra, The Jackson 5, Kool and the Gang. Aretha, Stevie, Curtis, Rev. Al Green.  Every week Don Cornelius brought the What’s What of Black American music into our homes.

But Mr. Cornelius also brought us a window into 1970s California style. We saw energetic dancers thrusting their pelvises at the cameras, twirling, bumping, and roboting their way down the Soul Train line.  Their oversized Afros bobbed in time to the music. They were flamboyant, sleek, and sexy.  There was some very fine plumage on that dance floor.  Smokin’ hot pants, sky-high platform shoes, high-waisted slacks that fit the crotch in an oh-so-suggestive manner.  Flare leg jeans, handkerchief hem dresses.  Some women rocked forties-inspired fashion featuring short-sleeved jackets with nipped-in waists, halter tops, and a-line skirts.  The Pointer Sisters worked this look perfectly early in their career (their first two albums on Blue Note are a fabulous illustration).

Check out the looks of this era.  Look at how much fun folks had with colors and patterns!  They say if you remember the seventies you weren't really there.  So, if you've got style amnesia, take a look at this video clip from the Soul Train archives.

Happiness Is a Warm Gunn

Tim Gunn

One of my favorite style gurus, Project Runway star Tim Gunn, was interviewed in the February 2012 issue of Mother Jones.  Several of his quotes should be embroidered on a pillow cover, but here are my favorites:

• "The clothes we wear send a message about how the world perceives us.  People say to me, 'Oh that's so shallow, that's so inconsequential--don't say that.' Well, it's true!  Let me put it this way--if you're at a cocktail reception, how do you know who the waitstaff are? You know by how they're dressed."
• "...I find the whole notion of the multi-thousand-dollar [couture] dress to be thoroughly repugnant.  It's not necessary.  It's how I feel about Kim Kardashian's $2 million engagement ring."

Mr. Gunn also believes that no one is too smart for style.  He says, "There is a notion that if you're concerned about your appearance it's anti-intellectual. I say, "Hogwash!"

Gotta love this man!

On The Fringe

Picked up these incredible ginger-colored Minnetonka boots at The Wardrobe Boutique and was transported back to 1970s hippie chic. The suede is soft and the inside feels like my favorite slippers.

I heard Cher wailing her Top 40 hit, “Half Breed” when I stepped into these boots.  I thought of days-long music festivals like Watt-Stax and Isle of Wight, and Pat & Lolly Vegas, founders of the Native American rock band Redbone.  Remember their big hit “Come and Get Your Love?”

These boots also recall Sly Stone attempting to take the audience higher on the Ed Sullivan Show in 1968.  He and his sister Rose danced into the stuffy audience in similar funky footgear (no one shook their booties--the audience seemed frozen in fear…uh…place). 

My Minnetonkas will look great with tucked jeans, leggings, and my favorite corduroy pencil skirts.  They are just as comfortable as UGGS but have loads more style and attitude.  Love ‘em!

Themes for Spring 2012

Last weekend’s snowfall fast-forwarded me into a spring fashion daydream.  Early reports on spring 2012 fashion trends  include tribal themes, floral prints so bold that you can smell the roses, the roaring ‘20s, and minimalism.  Do you feel like daydreaming?  Let me give you a little taste of each look. 

Tribal - I want to stroll the golden Savannas of Africa wearing these punches of saturated color. Swirls of vermillion, russet, and tangerine marching alongside moss green and copper stripes.  Missoni, Bottega Veneta, and Hermes are showing gorgeous dresses inspired by artists from Africa and the Caribbean.  Some of these pieces are works of art suitable for framing. 

Florals - These ain't your Auntie May’s florals!  Forget about Laura Ashley and the dainty prints from the ‘80s and ‘90s.  Many new floral prints are bold digital images that recreate an entire greenhouse.  Imagine giant zinnias and psychedelic bouquets of chrysanthemums marching up a minidress.  Prada, Thakoon, and Christopher Kane will delight you with their eye catching motifs.  We’re talking total color immersion--not for the faint of heart! 

Roaring ‘20s - Jazz Age fever.  Flapper-influenced styles were on the runway for spring.  The style symbolizes the era when young women shimmied away from their parents’ and grandparents’ rigid expectations.  Hemlines rose as inhibitions fell.  Smoking and drinking became popular pastimes, “petting parties” were hot, and women won the right to vote.  Look for designs from Etro, Gucci, and Oscar de la Renta to capture the mood.

Minimalism - It’s clean, serene.  The focus is on the wearer, not the worn.  You’ve got sleek, sophisticated silhouettes and a farewell to frou-frou.  Are you a practical, sleek sister?  Do you like muted colors and neutrals?  Do you adore androgyny?  If so, you’ll love the stylish wardrobe pieces from Chloe, Lanvin, and Marc Jacobs.

Reality check--we're two months away from spring.  I'm staying curled up under a microfleece throw, but this fashionista's wish list is growing!