They're Back!

One of the things I love about the cyclic nature of fashion is that trends will eventually bring back a personal favorite.
My advice to thee when one of your faves comes around: STOCK UP! Currently, I am practicing what I preach and indulging in my love of cat eye sunglasses.(All the better if they are LARGE.)
So far I have snapped up a pair from Fendi, am lusting after a Michael Kors pair with metal tips, and I have eyes on a few more... The fun part about a trend is that you can find it everywhere at any price point: can you spot the faux?

Why I Martinize...

1.) It's fun to say as a verb
2.) The best "green" option since they don't use a petroleum based solvent, (yes, they use a solvent, as do ALL "dry cleaners", but it is not toxic for the environment or you)
3.)They are nice and honest about what they can accomplish, and they offer delivery, after-hour drop-off, and super fast services.
4.)They magically erase stains, even those of enigmatic origins.
5.)They now offer the coolest solution to the endless reems of plastic other places might wrap your clean clothes in: A reusable garment bag!Not only convenient, but also, they will give you 10% off your entire order EVERY TIME you use it!!!!!! Fabulous! A conscientious alternative, plus incentive. Love. It.
(Savvy side note: if you happen to forget your bag, they now use recycled plastic for the standard wrap anyway. )
6. I'm excited about it. (Not getting any kick-backs from them. Just excited.)

Hello...Goodbye...

The end of 2010 is upon us and I find myself feeling nostalgic for the year in clothes. However, instead of wallowing in bygone threads, I am peeking into 2011 for inspiration and conspiring how I can keep my faves fresh a little bit longer...

Cardigans by BCBG MAX AZRIA
Sandals by L.A.M.B.

Classic Black Boots

A pictorial guide for buying the classic staple you must have in your closet for Fall/Winter. Once you have these down you can venture into fun varietals, (cognac, ox-blood, greige, camel etc...).
This is specifically for those who have gotten sticker shock, (yes, good leather boots are an investment), and then worried whether or not they will still be stylish in three years. When buying for longevity you must try to avoid trends and stick to classic shapes in the heel and toe. Avoid a lot of overt details, busy seaming, extra buckles, rivets, studs or fringe. Be sure to re-sole regularly, and if you go pointy, ask your shoe-wiz to apply rubber tips underneath the points.

Boots by Cole Haan
Boots by Stuart Weitzman

SB Crossroads: Retail Review

I visited the new Crossroads a while back when they opened, and experienced mild displeasure at the tired turnout. Yesterday I went in to actually sell some clothes/shoes, and to give them a second chance, figuring they have been open long enough to have brought in some interesting finds.

( I accept that Crossroads is like a thrift-store, hit or miss, and that's half the fun)

In case you don't know, the new store has a back entrance that would open into the parking lot off Figueroa, ( it's where Russ camera used to be on State), however, they have chosen to keep this door locked-at-all-times, forcing this Stylista to drag her suitcase full of duds all the way around the block vs. going about 15 feet straight in the back door. Well, clearly this is a major flaw, and I saw fit to Point It Out to the lovely girl who was doing the buying that day.

I told her this:

"I understand why the choice was made to keep that door locked, seeing as the dressing rooms back up into it and you are attempting to control thievery, however, I have to tell you that dragging multiple bags around the block is not going to appeal to any of the SoCal Selling Susies who can just as easily have their bags picked up curbside by your biggest competition located only two blocks away." (The Closet)

(HELLO?! Are they trying to fail so quickly ? Or are they really that oblivious? Crossroads Trading Co. has more than 25 stores in 9 different cities and they should know better....

My job is clearly never done.)

I went on:

"Please pass this on to your manager, and let her know that I think you all could easily work out some kind of system where people can call and get buzzed in by the dressing room monitor or something. This has really got to change."

At least I can say this, they hired some really sweet girls who greeted my suggestions with enthusiasm and sincerity.

And although the clothing selection was nothing to get excited about, (still), I did spy these beauties and would love it if someone with a size 7.5 foot would please go purchase them today so I can enjoy them my proxy. (Steal, $25)

The Ultimate

Your dedicated Pointer-Outer has found it for you: the most universally flattering swimsuit.Period.Worth every penny

October Noir

October Noir by Shoebabe on Polyvore.com

Bonjour Autumnal Equinox

Coats by Burberry
Pumps by Balenciaga

Viva La Fiesta!

Black Dresses at eDressMe
Platforms by Badgley Mischka

Summer Blues...

Don't let stifling heat give you the blues-wear blue!

The psychological effects of blue are said to be calming and cooling. Icy blues and deep indigo are purported to create feelings of serenity and lower blood pressure.

Before getting dressed in the morning, close your eyes, take a deep breath, and picture vast azure skies, and alluring aqua pools of water and allow yourself to be filled with feelings of tranquillity and light as you dive into dressing for you day.

I am often asked by clients what to wear in the heat of summer; SO here it is, my basic tip sheet for hot, hot, weather.

• Dress in looser, breathable pieces that do not cling to your body


• Look for natural fibers such as cotton, linen, and bamboo to allow your skin to breathe



• Wear a dress! It's just one simple piece: easy, effortless, and cool.



• If you wear a hat to protect your skin from the sun, ( and I recommend it if you plan to be outside for any length of time), look for one that is woven or cotton so your head can release the heat trapped by the hat



• Open toe shoes ! Sandals, mandals, flip-flops, slaps, slides: take your pick, and give your tootsies some air.



• Wear white and light blue to reflect sunlight and encourage your senses to be "cooled"



• SUNSCREEN!!!!!!!! EVERY DAY!!!!!!!!!! RE-APPLY!!!!!!!!!

Very Vert

Make Note: I am Pointing Out that the color for this Fall is Green.
Gorgeous, glorious, grand green.
I have heard many clients tell me that they simply cannot wear green. I've heard it all:"it makes me look ill" "it makes the shadows under my eyes darker".
Please put aside your doubts this year, and venture into a forest of options.
There will be a shade that suits your skin whether you dabble in deep emerald, layer in lime, or outfit in olivine.

Shortsleeve Tops by Oscar De La Renta
Platforms by Lanvin

Material (girl)?

I grew up with Madonna...or at least I grew up.

So I must put in my review of her new "Material Girl" clothing line for Macy's.

Disappointing.

Why is the supposed "marketing genius" going after the same (tween) audience as every other major marketer? What happened to innovation? Re-inventing herself? Listen, I know she hasn't exactly been embracing her age, or even doing anything especially innovative for about ten years, but apparently my youth created expectations that still demand to be met.

Worse, she seems to be gladly squeezing every last dollar out of every phase of her daughters youth, ( remember the children's books?). Maybe I'm being too harsh, maybe it's just a bad habit.Like hand washing.

Although it has been years since I worshipped at the material-altar, (or even paid much attention to her for that matter), there is always that six year old inside of me who cringes a little when her latest output fails to flatter.

One reviewer of "Material Girl" pointed out, that although Madge is technically in the Chico's age bracket, she chose to design a line for babes her daughter's age; and I thought to myself, now that would have been innovative, to see what a talented design team, ( and the oodles of money you know they had backing them) could have cooked up for the "Material Girl", age 51.

Pre-Pre-Sale Prizes

Shopped the Nordstrom pre-pre-sale yesterday-and thoroughly enjoyed! This year they offered exclusive access to pre-sale items during early morning hours before the selling floor opened to the public--and I loved it!
No crowds, no other shoppers hovering near the goods, or demanding the same size item you want, and best of all: being let in when the store was still dark fulfilled my locked-in-the-store-shopping-extravaganza fantasy.
Buy Now:

**Booties, Clogs, or any hybridlovechild of the two...

**Lace: get romantic...
**Still more skinny jeans... ( but I won't endorse those hideous "jeggings"...shudder)

**Jewelry! Pile it on...

Now & Later : Spring finds

Now is the time to make purchases that will last you through these chilly spring days, long summer nights, and all the way into the blustery days of fall.
There are tons of delicious and deceptively simple dresses in stores now that can become the work horses in your closet.
Look for light-weight knits in cashmere or wool-cotton blends in neutrals like grey, taupe, mushroom, ash, and cocoa.
My choice for this Spring is dove grey; it's simple, a neutral, and an absolute chameleon depending on what you chose accessorize it with.
Right now: Fun clogs, multi-layered necklace,little leather jacket
Summer: Strappy platform wedges or lux leather gladiator sandals, sunscreen
Fall: Booties!, tights, wool coat

More Ash...

Spring Cleaning!

Spring has Sprung! Bright wild flowers, sunny days, and a closet full of piled up sweaters and coats.
This weekend was devoted to weeding out the bad and making room for the new. I spent several hours on my closet (dressers, armoire et al..) and so should YOU.
Now is the time for the following:
-Transfer heavy sweaters and layering pieces (long sleeves, wool tights etc..) into storage or back of closet depending on your set up.
-Get all winter coats cleaned (moths feed on dirt and particles left on your clothes--don't leave them something to snack on all for the next six months)
-Pull out last Springs wardrobe and TRY IT ALL ON. You must check that those favorite shorts from last year that you bought in three colors still,
A) Fit B)Look cute and not dramatically dated and C)Match you lifestyle
-REPEAT with an audience (of at least one trusted friend) because you may not be being honest with yourself about A,B or C
-If there are things you set aside a year ago because you LOVE them but have really only collected dust in that year. THEY MUST GO. But check it out, according to a recent study 79% of women won't let go of a T-shirt with sentimental value (I think it's probably more like 90%), you have options.
** Turn it into a Pillow case
**Give it to a loved little one (daughter, niece, chiwawa)
** Sew it into the lining of a purse/travel bag/laptop bag
**Donate or Sell it (these options can only be done like ripping off a band-aide: do it fast and in one swift motion)
I'm here to Point Out-it is time! Let it go!! Out with the old!In with the New!
Once you are done, I would say reward yourself with a shopping spree and stimulate our economy, but I know most of my clients are not thrilled about having to go out and refurbish the entire wardrobe.
So take heart, and take note; when you are cleaning out those old rags, check the label on the those old fave pieces and make a little list of the brands and stores where you have scored.
At the end of your clean out, you will have this list to guide you to where you should go first to shop for new duds. Oh! And notice if you keep buying things from a certain store, and never wearing them--avoid that store, obviously their marketing is more powerful than your eyesight.
And of course, if you feel overwhelmed, hopeless or confused, contact your favorite stylist and you know I will get you back on track on no time. ;)

A stylists dream site......

I have (probably belatedly) discovered the wonderful and terribly addictive site, Shopstyle.com
I can shop endlessly and put together looks pulled from real stores.
This serves me for fantasy shopping reasons,(no budget!) but also will be a helpful resource for YOU my clients! I can now easily offer you ideas and visuals for real options for you to wear and buy.
Check out my LookBook here

What to Buy Right Now

Dear Shopping Queen,
I'm trying to spend less money on clothes,and it seems like everything is on sale these days, what should I really focus on buying right now?
--Budgeting And Baffled Executive

Dear B.A.B.E.,
January and February are good months to shop,bad economy or not, sales are deep and widespread as stores are trying to clear out all Winter merch.to make room for Spring arrivals. The very best deals will be found on:

1. Boots! If you missed the boat during Fall, the last dregs of Winter boots are deeply discounted now and showing up in places like Nordstrom Rack, Loehmann's, Bluefly,and DSW.
For example, these HOT Cynthia Vincent's on sale for $219!!!! Excellent for the grey days ahead and will also be adorable with a pretty floral dress come spring.
2.Coats and Jackets
Even thought Winter season is over in the world of fashion-- in the real world there's still plenty of nose-numbing days left. Score a fabulous wool coat like this (under a $100!) NOW
3.Cashmere, cashmere, cashmere
Fine quality cashmere sweaters, gloves, scarves and lounge wear.Buy now, wear all year long for cozy, quality warmth.
4.Lingerie
Valentine's day offerings, whether you're coupled or not, frilly pink and red naughties lighten dark days ;)
5.Holiday DressesAll those dresses stocked for the holidays are on major discount now, so find a new LBD for dates, or grab pretty little number to store for upcoming Spring weddings.

A True Classic?

The term "classic" is highly overused in the world of fashion, but in my opinion,there are actually very few real classics.
My definition of a classic is something that has timeless appeal and appears stylish regardless of current trends. In theory, once you own a classic piece you will never have to buy it again! And truly, there are very few things like this.
1.Authentic, graduated, ivory pearl necklace.
2.Black cashmere cardigan
3.Small gold chain
4.Plain leather gloves
5.True red lipstick
In reality, sometimes things are classic in nature, but subject to the zeitgeist of the times. (Just try watching Zeffirelli's Romeo and Juliet now- look how seventies it is!- but a classic tale none the less...)
Which brings me to today's post,The Classic Leather Jacket.
You will need to re-buy this every decade or so, but stick to a simple shape that fits your body and you can wear it(almost)happily ever after.
The price range on LJ's varies hugely, but you can find a great one between $300-600 with out much struggle. Anything less and you are going to compromise either in fit, or quality of leather. If you aren't sure if your LJ still has that effortlessly cool edge send me a pic and I'll tell you the truth. ;)
I found these timeless beauties for a client this morning...

When More is More #1

I am often telling people (when facing a neglected closet or a scattered multi-personality wardrobe) Less Is More. This is a good rule to go by when weeding through your closet or putting on make-up or eating oreos.

However, there are times when More is actually More. This especially applies to items that women sometimes have a hard time coughing up the big bucks for. But let's apply the Victoria Secret Syndrome to the issue and see what happens.

The V.S.S. is when full grown women find themselves drawn into the scented doors of pink polyester paradise. V.S. sells sexy, hot, youth better than any other store out there. The allure of a secret new silky, or lacy, or pretty is often enough to draw in even the most mousy of gals. However, what we have all come to know is an uglier truth: V.S. rarely carries your size, and if they do, your beloved new push-up bra will only last as long as a reality TV show. Then it's all popped wires, bent cups, permanent creases and stretched straps sending you back for another hit. I mean bra!

Many dismayed women then venture out intent on finding a better quality option and then jump back in horror because they have been lulled by V.S. prices.

"A bra should only cost $34!", they insist.

Sure, as long is it was made by a nine year old in Sri Lanka and has a planned obsolescence of three months.

But think, if you have to buy those bras every few months , how much are you really spending? Not to mention the frustration of knowing you're buying crap and the abuse you are subjecting The Girls to while you try to get more wear out of a busted bra. (Reminder, gravity is never on vacation.)

And that is why Lingerie is the top of my More is More list. Buy quality lingerie and you will never go back. Truly, the more you have, the less you will wear each item out, and the more wear you will get out of it all in the long run. This method has also been known to help lessen the grieving process when parting with the old fave black bra...

Top Five More is More categories

1.Lingerie.

2. Shoes

3. Socks + hosiery

4. Scarves

5. Hair rubber bands

These are things I always buy if I find them at a great price, in my size, and in a style or brand I love. You can't have too many of any of the above category and they can enhance your wardrobe in infinite ways.

I find great deals on many awesome brands from regular visits to Nordstrom Rack, Marshall's, and outlet stores. Once you know your size in a variety of brands I also recommend websites like Bluefly, Overstock and Figleaves for buying lingerie at amazing sale prices.

Welcome to My Blog

I have at long last given in and created a Blog, despite the ickyness of the word, and the ubiquitous nature of the genre.
My primary motivation is to offer a body of knowledge for my clients and friends to reference to find answers to the questions that seem to come up time and time again.
But of course, it is also an irresistible opportunity to Point Out to anyone in the blogosphere and if I happen to help some of the fashion forlorn, or the style challenged, all the better!
I have included links to many of my favorite sites: Useful Links are all sites that I refer to for in depth reading or specific categories such as Skincare or Small Bras. Favorite blogs are listed separately.
Please let me know if you have a blog or website you think I should add!
Enjoy!