Be safe, get vaccinated!

My friend Tara had this posted on her Facebook page last week, and I had to share with you.  Whether you love Uggs or hate them, you have to admit this is a pretty clever send-up of the HPV vaccine ads.

(I'm in the "I-don't-get-it" camp when it comes to Uggs. Especially when I see them worn with sundresses in 90F weather.)

Edited to add:  It was never my intention to make anyone feel defensive about their footwear.  If you like Uggs, and they work for your life, then go for it, and wear with pride.  Next I'll try to find a video poking fun at crippling 5" heels!
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Accessorizing, Highly Evolved

In the immortal words of Clairee Belcher (played by Olympia Dukakis) in the movie Steel Magnolias,

The only thing that separates us from the animals is our ability to accessorize.

The right accessories can make or break an outfit. That's a lot of pressure, which can lead to style paralysis, and standing in front of the mirror agonizing, can I wear really pearls with this? Is the bracelet too matchy? Which shoes look better? How much is too much? Should I cut my hair? Why does this necklace looks so great on my friend and not so great on me? Do these glasses make me look like my frequently inebriated high school typing teacher?  (Umm, well maybe that last one is just me.)

Our choice of accessories is broader than ever, and there's Science as well as Art involved in utilizing accessories to our maximum advantage. Fortunately, we have Imogen Lamport's new e-book,

The Finishing Touch: Perfecting the art of accessorizing to help us sort it all out. Imogen Lamport AICI CIP is an internationally certified image consultant, who takes us step by step through the ins-and-outs of choosing the right accessories to project the image we want.

In her new book, Imogen covers every imaginable aspect of accessorizing including jewelry, scarves, belts, hats, shoes, bags, glasses, and even choosing the best hairstyle for your face shape (and how to determine your face shape).

One of the most valuable concepts I learned from the workshop that I did with Imogen a couple of years ago was the concept of Balance Points.  This is crucial for determining what neckline of a top or length of necklace will look best on you. 

See what I mean about Science?

So much of what is flattering on us is a result of working with our bodies' unique proportions, textures and colors to create harmony and balance. And in The Finishing Touch, Imogen provides concrete concepts and tools to help determine those qualities.  Especially for those of us on a budget or who are trying to hone that perfect capsule wardrobe, this information can prevent costly mistakes and unworn pieces lurking in the back of our closets or jewelry boxes.

Flattery is one (important) thing, but accessories are also a great vehicle for expression. I love this graphic especially, which shows how you can totally change up the look of a single pair of jeans just by switching out the shoes.

For those of us who are trying to hone and maintain a smaller wardrobe, this concept is so important, and illustrates how we can make a single garment work for multiple occasions.  Here's the same concept with an LBD:

Imogen takes us not only through how to choose and combine accessories, but also how to store and care for them, and how to determine when it's time to retire a piece that is either worn beyond repair or looks outdated.

The very best thing about all of Imogen's e-books is that unlike some style guides that rely on simplistic drawings and vague suggestions, Imogen really provides the nuts-and-bolts information coupled with very instructive Polyvore-style illustrations and examples.

Whether you still struggle with accessorizing or just want to take it to the next level, there's something for you.

You can find The Finishing Touch here.

Also be sure to check out Never Short on Style (style guide for Petites), Travelling Light, and Your Essential Style Guide.

Imogen's blog is Inside Out Style, and her image consulting business is Bespoke Image.

Disclosure: I received a complementary copy of The Finishing Touch to review.
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Friday Night Random

Jardin de Luxembourg, early autumn 2008, my favorite Soft Autumn landscape

Every now and then I read something, maybe a passage in a book, maybe an article, or more often than not these days a blog post, that suddenly brings crystal clarity and one of those aha! moments about something I've been trying to define and articulate. This post at 12 Blueprints is one of those "blow off the back of my head" reads.  (A reader sent me a link to 12 Blueprints a few weeks ago, and having noodled around on that and other color-analysis websites, have self-identified as a Soft Autumn in the seasonal color system. The colors in this palette closely correlate with the Dusky Warm Light palette from Imogen's color analysis two years ago.)

Anyhow, this post really clarified not only the combinations of colors that feel right and harmonious to me, but also helped bring some focus to why I gravitate to and feel comfortable in the *styles* of clothing that I do. It's a bit stream-of-consciousness and associative, but really nailed down some elusive elements about my own style and sense of self that I've been trying to suss out and define for years now.

In other news, next week is shaping up to be a killer at work. As if it wouldn't have been busy enough just based on what was already on the agenda, Hurricane Irene's impact will be felt here too as the lion's share of our business originates and is administered through our New York office. I'm holding a good thought for all of my co-workers on the East Coast, and for those who will be impacted by this storm. If you're in the projected path of the hurricane, please do err on the side of caution and get the f*&# away from the coast!

My mother-in-law is still in the hospital, due to annoying complications on top of complications. Once again, they think they've identified the issue, will hopefully perform another procedure either this weekend or early next week that will allow her to go home in a few days.

I'm a bit behind on some of my blog reading/commenting and responding to comments here, but hope to catch up this weekend.

All of this as a way of explaining that aside from a couple of things already in the works, next week's posting may be light.

À bientôt!
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Slim Pants Meet Their Match

Shoes for Slim Ankle Pants by unefemme featuring cole haan shoes

Lisa and Susan asked in comments on Monday's post what (comfortable) shoes work with slim ankle pants.  Here's my take, above.

Ballet flats are the obvious choice.  For those of you who can't wear a flat flat, check out the J.Crew versions that have a hidden wedge inside. You also couldn't go wrong with a leopard print skimmer.

I've worn my black Paris booties with my Eileen Fisher slim pants, and love this look, even with the style that hits right above the ankle. YMMV. (The black boots shown here are a similar style to mine.)

I've seen a lot of slim pants styled with a heeled desert boot, and really love that look as well. Above I've chosen a couple different pair with a lower heel and high customer comfort ratings. A heeled loafer is a slightly dressier option.

Depending on your style and lifestyle, I could also picture these pants with a sleek sneaker, along the lines of Keds or Puma. If you're feeling really daring, wear a contrasting color.

And of course, you can always tuck slim pants into a taller boot.

Those who are more curvy might want to stay away from very delicate, dainty shoes. I find some visual "heft" with the shoes helps balance out my top half.

My last suggestion is to stick to shoes/boots with a narrower, tapered or even pointed toe. To my eye, this best complements the slim line of the pants. Skip shoes with rounder, wider toes, or risk looking like....

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Currency Trading - Parsing the Trends

Pic from Style.com, here

Une femme could never be accused of being on the cutting edge of Fashion. It often takes my eye a few months (or occasionally a few years!) to adjust to seismic shifts in the sartorial zeitgeist. That's probably not altogether a negative; at a certain age, chasing every trend can be an express train to Ridiculousville.

But, a stubborn refusal to update our look periodically can land us in a visual time warp. A piece here or there that nods to current fashion trends can help convey that while we know our own style and are no one's Fashion Victim, we aren't totally disconnected from the world at large either. Incorporating a newish silhouette or a particular trend isn't about making ourselves look younger necessarily, but rather, current. (For those in the workplace or job hunting, this is more important than ever.) And a trendy piece or two can be a way to have some fun, bringing a fresh perspective to daily wardrobe planning.

We all know the drill by now, right?  Don't spend at the high end of your budget for a trendy piece, wear trends sparingly, stick to pieces that work with and freshen items you already own, and when all else fails, go with updated accessories to give your classic look a nudge into the present. And don't hesitate to pass up a trend  if the silhouette doesn't work for your body type, or the aesthetic doesn't speak to you. (Like those drape-neck, dolman-sleeve, slim-hipped tops that are everywhere right now? Pas pour moi.)

Here are some current trends that have ageless appeal and some particular pieces I've been considering:

Color


Color blocking and neon brights (trends that are getting a lot of fashion press right now), are a bit overwhelming for me but I'm starting to see more options for adding some color in subtler but rich shades and in very wearable styles.

These ankle cords from Talbot's in "Vixen" are a gorgeous shade of rich rust or russet (and less red than they appear in the picture) that will bring a bit of vibrance to neutrals and earth tones. This dusty pink "Cosmopolitan" color is also tempting:

Cardigans are a great way to add some color. (Wear open over a monochromatic ensemble to create the flattering column of color.)  Stick with simple styling, and let the color speak.

J.Crew cashmere, $168. More colors in online and in stores.

Whether you're more comfortable with color in small doses or love to boldly mix colors between your clothing and accessories, Longchamp Le Pliage totes are always a great option. Available in new hues each season, the durable nylon fabric and simple style will last for years.

Love this color, and the Loden (green)

Lace


This is another of those trends that could easily go wrong (either too twee or too boudoir) but I do like the look of this Lucky Brand lace top for more casual days,

or this Ann Taylor lace yoke tee, which is subtle and sophisticated enough for the office. (Would look great under a jacket!)

Faux Fur. Yes, really.

Faux fur has come a long way from those stiff, Muppet-costume fibers of yore. I've seen (and tried on) some pieces lately that are soft, beautifully dyed, and with a luxurious look and feel. Don't be afraid to have some fun with it...

"I'm with the band," Vince Camuto faux fur vest, $175

Ok, so maybe not for me, and perhaps a bit spendy for a "fun" piece. But if you like the look, shop around; I've noticed similar pieces in varying price points (quality TBD).

If that's just a bit much for you, how about a sweater with a faux fur collar?  Again, look for good quality Faux. Removable is a good idea too.

Trina Turk 'Deville' Cardigan, $298

Karen recently shared her take on how to work the loafer trend (and will be back soon with more). And we've already reviewed Kitten Heels. 

Zara, H&M, Forever 21 can be good sources for fun trendy pieces that are made to last one season and are priced accordingly. Some of you talented thrifters are already scoring pieces from the 70's and 80's that look fresh again. While not meant as a steady sartorial diet, the occasional trendy item can be like the maraschino cherry on top of the sundae: bright and festive.

Are there any trends for Fall that have caught your eye? Any that are tempting you to move outside of your usual comfort zone?
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Une femme recommends...

A perfect pair of slim black ankle pants has been one of my Holy Grail wardrobe items for as long as I can remember. Occasionally over the years I've stumbled across a pair that is right in every way, which I then proceed to wear until threadbare, all the while offering fragrant sacrifices at the Shrine of St. Audrey in hopes that I'll someday find my next perfect pair.

The Pant Deities have smiled upon me again, in the form of these ponte knit slim ankle pants from Eileen Fisher.

Trust me when I tell you these pants look much better in person than in this picture. The style (front zip, front pockets, belt loops) and the fabric (substantial) add up to a pant that's polished enough for the office, but feels comfortable enough for yoga. They are flatteringly slim, but not skin tight.

These pants can be washed in the machine, gentle cycle, cold water. I put mine in a low heat dryer for about 15 minutes, then hang to finish drying overnight, but you can also skip the dryer and just roll in a towel to remove moisture then hang to dry overnight. (Oui, travel is always on my mind!) Yes, they do bag at the knees just a little bit after sitting all day, but regain their shape hung up overnight.

Available in black and mussel (a dark taupe). If slim ankle pants are your thing, Run Don't Walk.
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Dame Helen!

Gracing the pages of September InStyle magazine.

"I like a bit of sparkle. That's the Gypsy in me."

Gorgeous!!
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Stylish Travel, A Roundup

Tish at A Femme d'un Certain Age has been tackling the Travel Wardrobe issue and this week has offered a compendium of ideas from the fashion runways, bloggers and commenters.  Today some of une femme's previous travel posts are included.

Critical Observation
Broad Strokes (inspiration)
Elegant Travel, Part II
Elegant Travel, Part III

If there's any travel in your future plans, all of these are well worth a read!
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Refresher Course

Photo from tumblr,  here.

Fall has always been my favorite season. More than any other time of the year, Fall has always felt like a time of new beginnings, clean slates and fresh starts. Perhaps it's a holdover from years of back-to-school excitement, with new clothes, new school supplies, new classmates, a new lunchbox.

No, this isn't mine, but I did have a similar one.

Each year I look forward to the September issues of the fashion magazines and catalogs for stylistic inspiration, and to browsing through the early autumn collections with an eye toward updating/refreshing my wardrobe. This season (early Fall) has historically been my best time of year to shop, as the styles of clothing tend to be more work friendly, the fabric weights work for 3/4 of the year in our climate, and the colors of autumn tend to suit me the best of any season. I love warm browns, russets, greens, ochres, oranges, purples... the colors of a deciduous forest in late October.

It's been a few years, though, since I've needed to replace or revamp large swaths of my wardrobe, thanks to building a more timeless capsule of season-spanning neutrals, and trying to spend more wisely by purchasing fewer pieces of better quality that don't require replacement as often. Other than the long-sought-after grey ankle boots, and a long grey Eileen Fisher linen cardigan, I've mostly been keeping my powder dry, still searching for those few special pieces to add some color and verve to the mix.

Part of me still misses that sense of renewal, that brand-new-box-of-Crayolas feeling that a slew of new Fall clothes used to provide, and I've been exploring some cost-conscious avenues to re-energize myself for autumn, when work and life in general seem to pick up the pace. Many of us are trying to be more careful with spending, so I thought I'd share some of my tactics:

Reorganizing the closet. Put pants/skirts on the top rack, jackets/tops on the bottom. Or arrange everything by color, regardless of clothing type. Not only will a refreshed view of your wardrobe break the late summer doldrums, but you might see some possibilities and combinations you hadn't considered before.

A new fragrance, or mix of fragrances. Try something completely new, or if you've been wearing a favorite lighter floral fragrance for summer, try layering with something more spicy/herbal to add more depth for fall.

New makeup. Sign up for a complimentary session with a visiting makeup artist for a makeup line or brand you haven't tried before. (Check your local department store websites for schedules.) Remember that you're under NO obligation to buy everything they use, but tell them at the start what looks/colors you're more likely to wear; you'll both get more out of it.

New recipes. I've been in a TOTAL food rut lately, and plan to thumb through some favorite cookbooks this weekend and flag some new dishes to try.

Revise your routines. Move your workout from morning to evening or visa-versa. Read a book with your morning coffee and read/answer your email in the evening. Go to bed earlier, and get up earlier.

Pack a lunch. And who says we're too old for a new lunchbox anyway?  Inspired by Aunt Snow's post a few weeks ago about Bento Boxes, I've been keeping an eye out for just the right one to inspire me to make and bring my own lunch more often.

This one has a picture of Maneki Neko, the beckoning cat often seen in sushi bars, who welcomes fortune and good luck.

From Laptop Lunches, this purple bento box includes utensils and a book of shopping tips and lunch ideas.

This one looks pretty Deluxe, even has a handled carrying case!

What season most inspires you?  Do you have any strategies to revamp/refresh your outlook for fall? Any great fall fashion finds to share? Favorite lunchboxes?
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Public Service Announcement

Attention Retailers: we'll review this one more time. That beautiful creature above, that is a Leopard.

And this is Leopard Print.

Below, behold the Cheetah.

Ergo,

Cheetah Print!

Any questions?
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Series: Skew You! Trends That Can Fast Forward to Frump

First of all, let me say how HONORED and happy I am to be blogging as a guest of the esteemed Deja Pseu. This place was an inspiration to me when I began my own (now defunct but apparently not forgotten!) blog, "Of A Certain Age" some years ago. I have always felt at home here at Pseu's own social style salon, keeping company with some of the most true and interesting women I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. After "Of A Certain Age," I went on to pursue my pleasure with clothes and styling for women over 40, undergoing wardrobing training and earning a creditation from the Association of Image Consultants International. I have written style columns for two Southern California print publications, while also adding a business as a stylist for Stella and Dot jewelry. I am so glad to be here!

First in a series.

Isn't it a GAS to think about the POSSIBILITIES when a new fashion season rolls around? I mean, there's basically nothing we can't wear at a certain age if it suits our bodies, personal coloring, life roles and unique personalities. The world is our net of oysters at this time. Let us SHUCK!

Still, with that bounty of opportunity and choice there's that jerky little gremlin in the back of our heads that has to spoil the fun and nag, "Are you sure that makes you look young and beautiful?" and "Aren't you too old for that now?" I hate that guy. But he's kinda right. Though it should be last on our checklist of personal appropriateness when buying new clothes, age indeed has to be a small thing to consider going forward.

Now I know we're all savvy enough to know that a piece of clothing in and of itself can't "age" us. But there are certain trends this season that could work a devilish sabotage on our attempts to look youthfully current if their use isn't considered strategically.

Le Loafer
Let's start with this season's comeback kick--The Penny Loafer. What a nice, iconic shoe, and easy on the bunions, eh? In it's standard incarnation, this uptight, shiny leather shoe with a masculine bent is paired with traditional clothing (think argyle socks, wide-wale cord pants, tweed wool jackets with elbow patches, cotton turtlenecks, headbands, single pearl strand). Danger Will Robinson! What a way to skew yourself toward the frump!

Luckily we have that guiding-light saying that when a trend comes back it looks NOW because it's been tweaked. Traditional penny loafers with their thick soles and shiny perfection just seem a relic when when worn the way we did it back when. If you're going to get out your classic Bass Weejuns and polish them up because they are in great shape after 25 years, switch up your garment choice to bring them into this decade. Try for minimal chic with a pair of CURRENT (last two years) jeans (cuffed if you care to), a lace tee shirt and a honkin' watch from your grandpa Ray. Stick vintage New York City subway tokens or your favorite foreign currency in the penny slit. Or perhaps as a cheeky snub to our sucking economy, a pair of gold Krugerrands...Wear your best Fall shades and most gorgeous perfume and carry one of the new color-blocked shoulder bags out there now.

If you're going to buy new 

If you long since consigned the Weejuns, consider a brand new pair of loafers with a brand new twist on tradition. These streamlined beauties incorporate classic animal chic with a lighter sole. By Munro at zappos.com

The form is unmistakable, but we didn't wear them in metallic leather back in college. These by Dirty Laundry at zappos.com are trendy yet versatile enough to wear a few years. They'll go with any jewelry-- mix your metals with confidence. For some reason, I think tough or "dirty pearls" go well with this loafer (try the edgy beauties at pricelessimperfection.com)

This twist on the classic is my favorite. Snaky black opalescence, a streamlined body and driver moc sole. Can you just see this with black cigarette pants (perhaps revealing the ankle tattoo from "that OOPS night") a boatneck tee, and a ladylike but studded satchel on the arm? A little subversive, but classic. Aquatalia by Marvin K at zappos.com.

How-to-Do

The possibilities are endless, just use your style confidence and loaf on into some of the finer department stores and their online shops for inspiration with what to do with a loafer this Fall. And PLAY. Pull together an ensemble starting with the shoe. The way I do it is to place the shoes in the middle of my floor and then "radiate" my clothing pieces outward from that center spot in a sort of stellar arrangement. The pieces will fall into place, and so will a few great outfits.

Do you care for the loafer? How would you rework your vintage pair? If you want new ones, what hip ideas do you have in mind?

Next time on Skew You: The Longer Skirt

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Casual vendredi

Quand il pleut... by unefemme featuring rubber boots

A little rainy Paris fantasy...those boots are actually rain boots; aren't they clever? The leopard-lined trench is from Talbots.

And here's a video of an absolute deluge (not quite so "fantastic"!) from a few days ago in Paris (h/t ParisDailyPhoto):


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