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Spring is definitely my favorite season of the year because it signifies rebirth, fresh starts, and renewal. Like the sun rising every day, it’s a time that you can certainly count on annually and implement some meaningful lifestyle decisions around it – again, centering on rebirth, fresh starts, and renewal. The beauty of the spring season is that through physical transformation of nature (like flowers blooming), we naturally become inspired!
When it comes to the more practical significance of spring, however, what immediately comes to mind for you? Probably spring cleaning, right? Spring cleaning your home, garden, car – oh yes, the “honey-do” list. And of course, spring cleaning your closet! Most of these activities are a regular routine for us – we mimic nature by bringing fresh starts into our lives and moving forward. All very excellent and necessary things to do!
But when spring cleaning your closet, a methodical, purposeful cleanse is the best and most efficient way to tackle what may seem like an insurmountable task. And don’t worry, I have you covered! My fantastic FREE closet cleanse program helps you step by step to thoroughly spring clean your closet in just eight days! And what’s more, to help you organize your newly-cleansed closet, you can access my must-have closet organization tools as well!
But Wait, There’s More!
Now as we spring forward, let’s also not forget to fall back when thinking about your closet. We often get so caught up in the here and now (especially when concerning our wardrobe), that we forget about some key basics around maintenance of our clothes from last season – especially getting them prepped for the next season. I don’t want you to get caught up in the last-minute maintenance activities this coming fall. Instead, take a look below where you’ll discover how to ensure your fall & winter wardrobe is totally ready for next season!
Roxanne’s Top Four Tips: Prep Your Fall/Winter Wardrobe for Next Season
Tidy Up Your Shoes
Fall & winter can bring some serious wear and tear to your beloved shoes. Instead of tossing them though, opt to bring them back to life by taking them to your local cobbler. A great cobbler can work with any shoe whether it’s a boot, pump, or flat. Pay special attention to the heels and soles of your shoes, as well as scuff marks and possible staining from salt, etc. Leather shoes should be cleaned moisturized; and suede shoes should be cleaned and sprayed with a protectant layer. When they’re refurbed and are like new, keep them that way with proper shoe storage.
Dry Clean Your Knits & Coats
Refresh your delicate knits, heavier sweaters, and warm coats so that they’re ready to do it for you all over again next fall/winter season! Proper care of your knits and coats will ensure their beauty and longevity so it’s really important not to miss this step. And don’t forget to remove the dry cleaning plastic off of all your garments once you get them back home; and be sure to store them in sensible storage boxes (this will keep your knits fresh and protect them from dust).
Repair Your Leather Goods
Besides shoes, most of us rock leather in so many other areas of our everyday wardrobe including: jackets, belts, handbags, gloves, and wallets. Staying on top of your leather goods will also ensure a long life and extra money spent on replacements. If you think about it, leather is technically skin – and skin needs to be moisturized and conditioned. If not, it will dry and crack (believe me, I’ve had it happen to a pair of my shoes before!). The good news is that in most cases, your shoe cobbler should also be adept at repairing, restoring, and conditioning your favorite leather goods as well. So, gather up your fall/winter staples and bring them back to life for the next season!
Store Unused Clothing
And finally, if you’re short on hanging space in your closet, or want to go the extra mile to protect your fall/winter clothing, I recommend storing your unused fall/winter items in stylish storage boxes that are cute but, more importantly, functional! ? Storing your freshly dry-cleaned clothes in convenient storage boxes is most important to keep dust at bay, eliminate unnecessary stretching, and to keep them organized. They’ll be ready for their debut the next season! Here are some super cute, yet practical storage options for your closet.
Love These Pieces? Click It to Own It!
So there you have it – the perfect formula to spring clean your closet! Join my FREE closet cleanse challenge AND implement my tips above on how to prep your fall/winter wardrobe for action next season.
What additional ways do you prep your wardrobe for the next season? I want to know! Reply in the comment section below or tag me in Instagram or Facebook!
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my full disclosure policy for details.
Spring is definitely in the air! This is my first spring season in my new home of Dallas and they sure weren’t lying when they said that Texas does everything “BIG” – weather is no exception! While spring here brings a cornucopia of weather patterns including high winds, tornadoes, and hail storms, one thing I’m grateful for is warmer temperatures earlier than I’m used to. If you’ve followed me for a while, you know that I absolutely thrive in the spring and summer seasons – warmth is a big factor, but I also love reveling in spring fashion!
And now that we’re officially in the first few days of spring, I’m thrilled to share my top picks for the hottest trends that you’ll see off the runway and in stores this season! This year’s trends are certainly on point and I think you’ll love them. And there’s also one surprise trend that has made a debut as well!
I invite you to take a “sneak peek” at a couple of these trends below BUT be sure to also download your FULL complimentary Spring/Summer 2019 Fashion Trend Report (directly below!). By downloading the full fashion trend guide, you’ll have immediate access to my Top Ten Trends of the season with accompanying sample items for you to peruse and shop from!
Spring/Summer 2019 Women’s Fashion Trend Guide
It’s teaser time! Here are two of my top ten fashion trends to get you started! (And don’t forget to download your FREE copy while you’re here!).
Urban Prairie
This is what happens when Boho meets the city. Pastoral dresses and bohemian style tops are designed with an extra ‘edge’ giving it an urban vibe. This is something I can definitely get down with – how about you?
Poet’s Sleeve
Be inspired by this season’s version of the embellished sleeve…the Poet’s Sleeve! Blouses & dresses with this feature have long sleeves (with a deep armhole) that taper towards the wrist. I love that you can rock this in dressy or casual looks. Too cute!
So, you got a slight teaser on two of my TOP TEN trends in women’s fashion this spring & summer season. I’d love for you to dish on what you think of them! Are you feeling the Urban Prairie vibe, Poet’s Sleeve vibe, or both? And after you download the report, you have to tell me about your thoughts about the surprise trend that I included. Comment below to tell me what you think!
Love the looks and spring/summer fashion trend report? Be a doll and share this blog post with your friends!
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This time of year generally brings uncertainty with deciding what exactly to wear and it’s something I help clients with during every season shift. With this being my first winter to spring transition in Dallas, I have special insight because the weather here is bananas! Texas does everything “big” and weather is no exception! From super cold days, to hail storms, tornadoes, and warm balmy days, this season transition is super real for me! I thought I’d share some easy, valuable tips on how to transition your wardrobe from winter to spring. These are tips that I’m using day-to-day here in Dallas and you can do it, too! Ready? Let’s get to it!
Ladies, it’s about that time again! Spring is on the horizon and I am thrilled. Thrilled about cool fashion trends this season and mostly about warmer temperatures – woohoo!
You can still rock your stylish over-the-knee boots, riding boots, and ankle boots from the winter season! To stretch their wear a little bit more into spring, pair them up with your spring midi or maxi dresses. This is a great, fun look and will work for date night with your honey or running errands around time. If it’s a bit cool, don a casual denim jacket on top. Done!
Love the Look? Click Above to Own It!
2. Pair a Winter Sweater with Different Bottoms
Don’t pack away your sweaters yet – you can still work them during the early days of spring! Match your pretty, warm knits with an array of jeans, pants, or skirts. Depending on how warm or cool it is, you can decide on whether you’ll rock a chunky or light sweater. Across the board, I recommend cashmere sweaters not only because they’re so luxuriously soft, but also because they’re extremely breathable and regulate your temperature well so you don’t get too hot. Finish the look by “springing things up” with a cute sandal or stylish sneaker or loafer. See how easy that was?
Love the Look? Click Above to Own It!
3. Wear Your Blazer as a Jacket
Most of us have a good number of blazers hanging in our closet so let’s extend their use and style them up for the transition season! Choose a nicely tailored blazer and underneath you can wear a plain or graphic tee, a tank top, or a light sweater. Snazz up the look by adding a pretty scarf which is great for adding a layer of warmth and style! Wear the look with comfortable jeans (any style works here) and fun sneakers. I love wearing blazers as a jacket (along with scarves) because it’s so helpful for layering on or off depending on the temperatures.
Love the Look? Click Above to Own It!
4. Wear Short-Sleeved Sweater Dresses
Almost every client I work with has a short-sleeved sweater dress that’s a challenge for her to wear. I have them and believe me, I get it! I’ll say though, that these pieces are golden for transitioning seasons. These dresses are warm (but not too warm!) and allow you to layer pieces underneath for additional comfort and style. Such as a long-sleeved tee, tank top, or tube top! Pop on a fun moto jacket up top and rock some ankle boots below. Done and dusted!
Love the Look? Click Above to Own It!
5. Choose a Classic Trench Coat for Your Outerwear
Classic trench coats are one of my absolute favorite wardrobe pieces (see why here). This must-have piece is perfect for transitioning from winter to spring because it’s not too heavy, not too light, performs well in spring rain showers, and of course, looks super stylish! A best bet is to wear a traditional-colored trench in a nude khaki – this color matches with everything so you can never go wrong. Trench coats can be worn complete and belted (great for creating a waist) or for a more casual look, wear it gently draped over your shoulders. See? Now your transition looks are capped off with a stylish outerwear piece!
Love the Look? Click Above to Own It!
That wraps up my quick tips on how to transition your wardrobe from winter to spring! Which tip inspires you the most or which tips do you have that you’d like to share? Let me know by posting in the comment section below!
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As we transition into spring, I wanted to highlight this year’s color of the year from the Pantone Color Institute – Living Coral! FYI, each year the Pantone Color Institute highlights top seasonal runway colors, forecasts global color trends, and advises companies on color for product and brand visual identity – so they’re a pretty good authority!
Living Coral
“An animating and life-affirming coral hue with a golden undertone that energizes and enlivens with a softer edge.”– Source: Pantone
This beautiful color is rich with life and evokes feelings of happiness and joy. I think this is a great color to express yourself and it’s perfect for the spring and summer seasons. Revel in Living Coral this season – here are pieces to inspire you!
How to Incorporate Living Coral into Your Wardrobe This Season
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I’m grateful that timing-wise, this blog post falls in Women’s History Month and is published on International Women’s Day. I say this because for the last several months, I’ve been formulating my thoughts on the prominence of the women empowerment movement we’re seeing across the country and across the globe!
While empowering indeed, I personally think that it’s important that women remember to leverage this empowerment with style and grace. Feminism and femininity are not the same thing. Likewise, being a woman and being a lady are not the same thing. I acknowledge that not everyone may live this day-to-day (nor may want to) and that’s totally fine as each of us have our own prerogative and I respect that. However, regardless of where you fall on the issue, I firmly believe that there are certain mannerisms and social graces that differentiate one from the other and these can actually help you navigate our ever-changing world.
For those of you reading that want to evoke style and grace in your everyday life (while taking on the world!), then this post is for you, your daughter, your sister, your BFF – please share!
Top Tips on How to Evoke Style and Grace
Here are my personal tips on how to evoke style and grace and embrace your femininity. (FYI, this list isn’t in any particular order). Some of these tips I remember from childhood and some I’ve learned over the years as I developed into my womanhood. I certainly appreciate them more as I move through this journey of life.
1. Slow Down
This is one the quickest and easiest ways to channel style and grace! Simply slow down. Slow down your walking pace, slow down your speech, slow down your mind. Do you ever notice that women who are extremely savvy aren’t hurried and seem to almost literally glide in their movement? Think about it for a moment…I bet that women whom you admire for their style and grace are literally NOT running around town. They’re busy, yes, but they pace themselves. They move and speak with intention because they are slowing down. Doing so automatically helps one evoke style and grace.
2. Effectively Manage Your Time
Planning ahead and effectively managing your time helps you achieve #1 – slowing down. From major areas of your life to daily tasks, managing your time allows you to stay on top of these tasks, prioritize them, and not become overwhelmed. This isn’t always easy to do especially during very busy times, but use tools such as daytime planners (planner addicts unite!) or mobile calendar/task apps to keep you on a focused and intended schedule. And don’t forget to pencil in time for yourself and your loved ones! Control and planning ahead is how to evoke style and grace.
3. Be Thoughtful of Others
I hate to break this to you, but it’s not ALL about you! Each of us are just one person in our local, national, and global community. As you move through your day, consider others with your actions (or inactions). If every person did this, our world be such a different place! So be thoughtful of others – not only does it help you evoke style and grace, but it’s also the right thing to do!
4. Wear Clothes That Fit You Well
As a Personal Stylist for women, this is a core area that I focus on with my clients. There’s nothing worse than seeing women in ill-fitting clothing! Having a good tailor in your wardrobe arsenal is critical. Evoke style and grace by wearing well-fitted clothes that give you the best silhouette.
5. Wear Clothes and Shoes That Are in Good Condition
And while we’re on the subject of clothing, it’s not enough to just wear garments that fit you well, but make sure that they’re in top form! Wear clothes and shoes that are in good condition and present you well. Wearing clothes that are faded, have holes, pulls, or pills do not evoke style and grace – so don’t do it! Take care of your clothes and have them represent the best you!
6. Be Mindful of Your Appearance at All Times
I say this time and time again: you never know when you will literally walk right into your next life opportunity – so be ready at all times! Think about your overall appearance before you walk out of the door every day. This doesn’t mean that you have to dressed to the nines all the time, but you always should look neat and presentable. This is an easy way to evoke style and grace.
7. Have Excellent Poise & Posture
Stylish and graceful women do not slouch. Stand, sit, and walk tall with your shoulders back and chin up. An easy way to do this is to imagine a taut thread pulled up from your hips through your waist, backbone, neck, and head. Moving and interacting with good poise posture gives you a natural air of confidence…and, not to mention, an air of style and grace!
8. If You See Something, Say Something
Remember when I mentioned above that it’s not all about you? In this vein, I encourage you always look for opportunities to uplift others (including strangers). There’s nothing more encouraging for some people to receive genuine accolades about a job well done, how good they look, etc. The smallest compliment can totally turn around someone else’s day and give them a boost of confidence. So, share your style and grace with others – when you see something good, pay the compliment by saying something!
9. Think Before You Speak
Remember #1 up above about slowing down? Apply this to your words as well. Use the filter between your brain and your mouth. Take care and think about what you’re saying before you say it. Words mean a lot so choose them carefully. Evoke style and grace with your diction.
10. Don’t Speak with Your Mouth Full
And speaking of speaking, don’t speak with your mouth full. This takes you back to childhood, right? But it’s so true and we are taught this for a reason! If you’re eating must speak, take a few moments to chew your food before speaking or gracefully cover your mouth with your hand or a napkin as you talk. When it comes to dining, evoking style and grace is all about eating like a lady and not like a cow. 😉
11. Soften Your Edge
Do you ever come across women that no matter what, they always seem to have a chip on their shoulder? Or they seem to carry a negative armor of attitude? Well think about this…even during the most stressful times, be mindful of how you portray yourself when you’re out and about. Don’t be that woman with a hard edge that’s quite simply mean and unapproachable. Seriously, who truly wants to be like that?
Soften your edge a bit – think before you speak and mind your volume and tone. And this doesn’t mean that you must be meek – it’s quite the opposite actually. You garner more respect when you are assertive, yet clear and calm in your approach and response (as opposed to being brash and ready to fight all the time – who wants to interact with someone like that?). Naturally evoke style and grace by softening your edge.
12. Send Handwritten Notes
In a world of emails, texts, DMs (and whatever else is out there), writing anything besides your signature just isn’t efficient. With that being said though, there are occasions where you should put pen to paper for a personal handwritten note. Send a note to express heartfelt thanks, share a memory, offer congratulations, etc. For example, I send each new styling client a personal handwritten note welcoming them to their new style journey. I encourage you to invest in blank note cards as they give you the flexibility for any occasion. And you can even invest in personalized stationery stylized with your name or initials. Now that’s what I call stylish, graceful, and classy!
PRO TIP: I use Moo for my business & personal stationary – they have awesome print products with cool design finishes to match your personality. Order your stationary with Moo and use this link to get 25% off your first offer!
13. Be Kind
Toward the beginning of this list, I mentioned that I didn’t arrange these style and grace tips in a particular order. However, I thought it was meaningful for this tip to be the capstone of the list: BE KIND. Incorporating any of these tips I shared means nothing if you are not kind. Being kind to others even if they’re not kind to you. Always stand above the fray and live your life by the golden rule. If you take away only one action from this list on how to evoke style and grace, let it be this.
If this post struck a chord with you, I encourage you to check out this book exclusively sold at Brooks Brothers entitled How to Be a Lady. It’s a really good and quick read about social graces for women which apply in today’s day and age! It’s also a good gift for any special woman or girl in your life!
I’d love to know your thoughts about my list on How to Evoke Style and Grace so please comment below! Do you have items that you would add? Let me know below!
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my full disclosure policy for details.
As I write this blog post, I’m headed out for an extended weekend to Aspen for an exclusive Louis Vuitton fashion event. And only just before that for the President’s Day holiday, I visited Northern VA to do some bridal party shopping for my upcoming wedding!
During this time of year, when events come up or you want a
change of scenery it’s nice to steal away for a long winter weekend
getaway. For quick trips like this where
you’re only away for a few days, you’re able to pack less (which is always a
win), but yet you still want to be stylish, right?
In today’s blog post and video below, I’m bringing you into my suitcase to see what I packed and how I styled my recent winter getaway to Virginia. You’ll discover quick tips and must-haves for quick jaunts during the winter season.
Before packing for any trip, you should always think about
the purpose of your trip as that will ultimately dictate what type of clothing you
should pack. Think about the types of activities
you’ll be doing while you’re away and what clothing, shoes, and accessories
will best serve you from a practical & functional standpoint (while being
stylish of course!).
My trip activities were more on the casual side with the
ability to slightly upgrade my overall look to be more snazzy.
Style Around a Color Palette
When packing for a short trip, I always recommend styling
your clothes within a similar color palette.
Prepping this way makes SO much easier to mix and match your looks
around core staple pieces. For example,
the color palette I chose for my trip was ivory/beige/chocolate. By doing so, I was able to rock different,
memorable looks with minimal effort or fuss.
STYLING PRO TIP: I also chose this palette because dressing in beige colors instantly looks luxurious – especially in monochrome looks!
What I Packed
Garments
A Stylish Oversized Sweater Poncho – Ponchos like this are perfect for airplane travel because you don’t have to wear a coat, it’s not constricting on your body, and it doubles as a fuzzy, cozy blanket!
Two Black Tees – These 100% cotton long-sleeved tees fit comfortably underneath the sweater poncho and offer a nice layer of warmth. (I have one each for my inbound/outbound trips).
Two Pairs of Skinny Jeans – I packed one classic pair of skinny jean and one distressed pair. These are the perfect choice for sliding into my boots for a practical look; alternatively, they can be paired up with my heels for a sassier look! It’s nice to have a couple of choices without bringing lots of pairs (jeans add so much weight to your luggage).
A Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater – This is a staple item for winter style right here! A soft cashmere turtleneck is an ideal layering item because it’s not too thick, it’s luxuriously soft, and it’s incredibly warm!
Two Ivory Knit Tops – A cute V-neck knit top with embellished sleeves to be worn separately or layered with my cropped bell-sleeve jacket or long camel-colored trench; and a one-shoulder asymmetric athleisure top that’s just oh-so-stylish and can be worn on its own or with my trench (you can check me out wearing this top here on TV!)
An LBD (aka Little Black Dress) – Never leave home without it! You never want to be in a situation where you’re traveling, are unexpectedly invited to a cocktail hour, and not have anything to wear. Save yourself stress and money by always bringing one LBD wherever you travel!
Athleisure
During my private downtime, I love to be comfortable in my accommodations. I always travel with a comfy athleisure outfit that I can wear around the hotel room and lounge around it. For this trip I packed my athleisure sweatshirt, my Montiel teardrop sports bra (I absolutely LOVE this), and super ccomfy sweatpants.
Outerwear
Cropped Bell Sleeve Jacket – I wanted to have some flair up top and something cute yet comfortable to layer over my V-neck knit top. This single-breasted jacket features a lovely bell sleeve, gold lurex threading, and epaulettes offering a strong, structured shoulder. It’s a fantastic layering piece and perfect to throw on as you transition from day to night.
Cashmere Trench Coat – I love draping this Burberry Kensington cashmere trench over my winter knits. This coat is luxury from head to toe and so incredibly warm. It can be worn open and hanging over your shoulder for a casual look or closed and belted for those cooler days. I love pairing with a matching Burberry check scarf, of course! Overall, this is a real treat to have with you during winter travel.
Shoes
On this trip, I took along four pairs of shoes (wearing one
pair for traveling, thus only packing three):
A pair of ivory/black Sam Edelman python pumps (for my sassy, sexy look). (By the way, Sam Edelman pumps are my “workhorse” shoes!). Alternatively, you may opt for a nude pump – this is also a nice option because this color works well with any outfit!
A pair of patent leather slingbacks (I always pack a pair of black shoes whenever I travel and this is great for pairing with your LBD).
As you can see, my shoe selection covers all casual
occasions – not formal, but not super casual eithers. It’s the right mix of comfortable, stylish,
and functional for my weekend activities.
Accessories
Tom Ford Hobo Tote – Ideal for keeping essentials on hand that you don’t want to check in checked luggage (laptop, tablet, wallet, etc.). Dust Bag!!
Louis Vuitton Malle Petite Trunk Clutch – I love this little purse!! It’s perfect for short trips allowing you to carry only your essentials. You don’t want to be weighed down by a huge purse while you’re out and about. This crossbody clutch offers both versatility and style!
Sunglasses – A great pair of sunnies that provide UV protection all year round is an essential accessory for your trip!
Okay, actually writing out my packing list makes it seem like a lot of items, but it’s really not! You can get a better idea of how minimal this really is while watching my YouTube video.
More Pro Tips on How to Style Your Winter Weekend Getaway
Wear a Pair, Take a Pair – For shorter tips, take no more than two pairs of jeans. Taking only two pairs gives you the flexibility to switch up your style while not weighing down your suitcase – jeans weigh a lot! Save space by wearing one pair and packing the other!
Wear Your Bulky Items – Wear your heavier sweater or poncho with larger boots during your travel so they don’t take unnecessary space in your suitcase and add to your luggage weight. The benefit is that it helps you stay cozy in colder temperatures (like inside airport jetways – brrr!) or if you get too warm, you can always take some layers off!
Double It Up – Wear the same outfit for your both your outbound and inbound trip.
My Must-Haves for Any Weekend Getaway (and any Trip)!
Compression Socks – When traveling by plane, compression socks keep your feet and ankles from getting too swollen which is especially helpful during longer trips. There’s nothing worse than having your feet swell in shoes while you’re wearing them OR trying to get your swollen feet back into shoes if you’ve taken them out during your flight.
Portable Garment Steamer – Let’s face it…your clothes will definitely get wrinkled while being packed up during your travels. Forget about using hotel irons which can sometimes be icky! Instead, pack your own portable garment steamer to smooth out wrinkles on demand! They don’t take up a lot of space in your suitcase and are always handy to have on deck! (You may want to check out my blog post on other must-have tools of the trade).
Slimline Hangers – Bringing your own hangers is helpful for two reasons. First, not all hotels offer hangers (hard to believe, but true), but more often than not, hotels don’t provide enough hangers which can be annoying. Next, you’ll need a hanger for hanging your newly steamed clothing. Slimline hangers are the best bet here because they are thin, lightweight and don’t take up much space in your suitcase. I almost never travel without them!
Leather Jewelry Travel Organizer – This secure jewelry organizer rolls up for convenient storage in your carry-on and quick access with its multiple compartments. I use this for travel and for transporting jewelry for my clients!
So there you have it! Those are my top tips on how to style your winter weekend getaway. And if you haven’t already, definitely check out the accompanying video above!
What tips do you have on styling YOUR weekend getaway in the colder months? Drop your comment below!
Stylishly Yours,
Roxanne XOXO
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I think many people can relate to me when I say this year has been busy – extremely busy – and the holiday season hasn’t given us much of a reprieve either! But nonetheless, we can’t press a pause button on time and there’s no changing the fact that Christmas is just a little over a week away!
I admit that while I had a good run for buying holiday gifts as I worked through my own personal Black Friday shopping, there were still quite a few people on my list that I’ve only just gotten gifts for (as in today!). I know I’m not the only one looking for the right gifts running right up until the holiday, so I pulled together this holiday gift guide to help you out! If you’re on the hunt for some easy, stylish gifts that are perfect for your mom, daughter, BFF, or good friend (okay, and for yourself too!) then you’ve got to check this holiday gift guide out!
About This Year’s Holiday Gift Guide
When building this gift guide, I especially concentrated on accessories because in most cases, you don’t have to worry about sizing (which can be tricky when you’re shopping for someone else). Plus, I always say that accessories are the easiest, quickest, and least expensive way to add some flair and style to one’s look. So why not give the gift of style with one or two key gifts?
I’ve curated great gifts at various prices to fit everyone’s budget! This year’s holiday gift guide is organized into three sections based on these price points: gifts under $150, gifts from $150-300, and gifts over $300. (Note that these are the price ranges as of the date of this post and are subject to change).
Okay, so shall we get started? Check out each section below! Happy Shopping!
Christmas Holiday Gift Guide – for HER
Gifts Under $150
Click the images for product info!
…AND BE SURE TO PRESS THE ARROW ICON TO VIEW MORE HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS!
Gifts From $150-$300
Click the images for product info!
…AND BE SURE TO PRESS THE ARROW ICON TO VIEW MORE HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS!
Gifts Over $300
Click the images for product info!
…AND BE SURE TO PRESS THE ARROW ICON TO VIEW MORE HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS!
Pretty easy, right? So tell me, which items are your favorite and which one(s) did you order? Share in the comment section below! HAPPYHOLIDAYS!
Stylishly Yours,
Roxanne XOXO
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The fashion industry is perceived as a liberating world that encourages people to express their personality through clothes and accessories. From playful to professional, you can play a variety of characters depending on the outfits you choose to wear.
However, don’t be fooled by the apparent freedom you can gain from fashion. Fashion is only liberating if you do it right. Otherwise, you might struggle to convey the right message through your outfit choices (I preach about this all the time!). Consequently, fashion faux-pas, mishaps, and mistakes are commonly pointed out. Many enthusiastic fashionistas feel somehow limited by the fear of criticism. The truth is that you don’t want people to comment negatively on your look – you’re human, after all! Nevertheless, you shouldn’t let your Fear of Fashion Failure – the infamous FFF – prevent you from exploring the infinite possibilities of clothes.
Every fashion mistake you make is a lesson you can learn to improve your personal style. Nobody knows what works for them without testing. Trial and error is probably the quickest path to create looks that are unique and engaging.
But, you’re not on your own when it comes to experimenting with your clothes. As your Personal Stylist, I want to share some of the most common fashion mistakes and how to fix them.
Lesson #1: Don’t Buy Only From a Picture
Nowadays, e-commerce makes everything available to us in a matter of clicks. Digital technology has revolutionized fashion shopping (I can personally attest to this!), so much in fact that a growing number of shoppers prefer to shop online instead of trying their outfits on in a brick and mortar store. Because of this, you’re forced to rely entirely on what you see on the retailer’s website (or their apps), AKA pictures. This is where you’re likely to encounter your first stumble.
It’s not uncommon to discover that many clothes never look quite the same in-person than when in fashion photos – professional lighting, the model’s body type, and even the computer’s screen resolution can dramatically affect how fashion photos appear. Also, many enthusiastic shoppers are convinced into purchasing an item on the basis of the photo. However, just because the outfit looks fabulous on a model, it doesn’t mean that it will necessarily suit your figure. A great example of this typical faux-pas is when it comes to buying stripes. While vertical stripes might look good on a model – who’s ultimately paid to achieve and maintain a slimmer figure – they can be unflattering on a more curvy body. So, the lesson learned here is that before you add that coveted item to your shopping cart, take an extra moment to closely examine the cut and style of the garment and check the designer’s measurements against your body measurements to ensure a proper fit.
Lesson #2: When DIY Goes Wrong
Creating your own sense of fashion means taking risks, and, more often than not, building it up as you go. When you’re surrounded by DIY and craft articles that teach you how to personalize your clothes, it’s fair to say that you might be tempted, one day, to give it a try. As a rule of thumb, you should take time to familiarize yourself with any instructions and the products you’ve chosen to use. For example, if you’re sewing a skirt (you can find plenty of beginner-friendly patterns online), it’s a good idea to sew a “first version” using a less expensive fabric to ensure that you avoid costly mistakes (if you make any!). Here’s another good example…let’s say you’re totally DIYing your wardrobe and you want to add a cool, creative vinyl transfer to a favorite top. It can be helpful to watch a few tutorial videos ahead of time to later avoid searching for tips on how to remove iron-on vinyl because you’ve applied it backwards onto your top, LOL. The thing about DIY is that you will make mistakes as you go along. But the right preparation can prevent many mistakes!
Lesson #3: The Dress That Makes You Look Sick
On the hanger, the dress looked fabulous. But when it’s on you…not so much. We’ve all been there! One of the most important aspects to consider when dressing yourself (right up there with determining the right garment fit and shape for your body) is understanding the power of colors. Indeed, dressing for your skin tone is a delicate art that can make or break your outfit. Picking the wrong color for your skin can make you look tired or even sickeningly pale depending on the clothes you’re wearing. As such, you need to explicitly define which skin tone category you fall into between warm, cool and neutral. Armed with this info, you’re guaranteed to select the best colors and shades that work for you and the best part is that it will give you an instant shot of radiance! If your skin has warm tones, your go-to colors consist of orange, red, warm green, and deep turquoise. However, if you’re cool, you should avoid these shades and focus on bright blue, lavender, and ruby.
Lesson #4: Your Shoes Hurt Too Much
Do beautiful shoes have to cause you pain? Despite the fashion statement that you need to suffer to be pretty, in reality, if your shoes are hurting your feet, then you’re doing something wrong. As such, you should focus your attention on important details to make sure you’re avoiding unhealthy shoe mistakes. Start with the basics. Knowing only your shoe size isn’t enough. You should get your feet measured regularly, especially because they can change over time. Additionally, opt for shoes that comfortably support your arches – whether high or low. A visit with a podiatrist may be on deck and can significantly improve your shoe pains.
Lesson #5: Quit Buying Clothes That Are Too Tight
It’s worth saying one more time – quit buying clothes that are too tight. As a Personal Stylist, I spot offenders in this space every day. It may be tempting to buy tight-fitted garments, or even uncomfortably tight clothes if you’re trying to lose weight. The idea is that your outfit is designed to act as motivation to keep you focused on your goal. However, wearing clothes that are too tight for you can lead to health issues – yes, it’s true! Also, your motivational purchases can backfire dramatically. Indeed, it’s best to go with an outfit that works for your current body instead of punishing yourself with something uncomfortable or even painful. I cannot emphasize this enough!
Lesson #6: You Follow Every. Single. Trend.
Last, but not least, it’s difficult to resist the urge to purchase every new fashion trend. However, you need to remember that fashion is an extension of your personality. When you follow trends a bit too closely, you may risk losing your own unique style for a ready-made outfit that’s ‘in’ just for that season. I explain this in my semi-annual fashion trend report where I share what options you have that could be a natural extension of you.
All in all, don’t be afraid to take risks and experiment with fashion! Ultimately making mistakes is, after all, the best learning process. And the world doesn’t end either, right? 😉
What fashion mistakes have you made and what lessons have you learned? Share in the comment section below!
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With Christmas just around the corner, parties are certainly going to be on many of our calendars and this includes the annual office Christmas party. While you may like your job and get on well with your colleagues (and even your boss), you know that the office Christmas party will certainly have a slightly different vibe than parties where you’re with close friends and family and more able to be completely yourself.
There’s certainly no need to be stressed at this event just because your boss is there! But being aware of the atmosphere, vibe, and company culture, you want to ensure that you wear the right attire – and make the right impression. The last thing you want to do here is going too crazy and risk making a fool of yourself because you chose the wrong outfit.
Now, everyone should absolutely be free to express themselves comfortably through their attire! So, if you’re struggling to come up with something to wear to the office Christmas party, below I’m sharing some quick tips for stylish ideas to help you look and feel great while making a great impression.
A Little Black Dress
I ALWAYS feel that you can truly never go wrong with a little black dress (aka LBD). This simple and elegant style is timeless and works for pretty much any occasion. The best thing about a little black dress is how versatile it is, so no matter what your typical style is, you can easily find one that can suit you and will feel great wearing it. You can accessorize and jazz your LBD up with subtle jewelry and incorporate makeup looks such as bold red lipstick or smokey eyes – this will really bring your entire look together.
Jeans You Can Dress Up
Jeans are such a versatile wardrobe item to have and these days, they can really be worn to many different events. Although they’re not the first thing most people may think of wearing to a party, you’ll be surprised at just how effective they can be through simple touches such as jazzy tops, stiletto heels, accessories, and even handbags. When appropriate, jeans really can make the perfect party outfit if you know how to dress them up the right way.
A Bold Blouse
Blouses have really been making a comeback and for good reason. They’re extremely versatile and can be worn during the day, after hours, or at Christmas parties. A nice long-sleeved blouse in bold or patterned colors worn with jeans, a skirt, or a pair of trousers can quickly and easily give you a highly stylish outfit for your office Christmas party.
Simple Accessories
Accessories are essential to bring your outfit together and while it’s important not to overdo it with accessories, some well-placed jewelry, hair clips, or a nice clutch bag to hold your essentials will definitely set your stylish outfit off. Gotta look cute for the office Christmas party pics and selfies, right?
What other simple, yet chic outfit ideas do you have for your office Christmas party? I’d love to know – comment below!
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As a Personal Stylist, I spend lots of time shopping and styling my clients (and I love every minute of it!). But every once in a while, I need a closet refresh and need to shop for myself! Interestingly enough, many people think that I constantly add new pieces to my closet because I’m a stylist. While I will indulge in a special piece every now and again (not gonna lie!), when shopping for myself, I typically acquire many pieces at once. This method is most efficient for me from a time perspective, but it also allows me to plan my shopping around major shopping events such as Black Friday! What a great way to update my wardrobe pieces and save money at the same time!
This year, I’m inviting you in to see my personal Black Friday shopping list. I want you to get a glimpse of my wants and needs, style-wise! LOL At the time I’m writing this post, I’m not 100% sure that I’ll get everything on my shopping list below, but I’m going to try to get the best items and the best deal. Once I get everything, I’ll write another post sharing which new clothes, shoes, and accessories I scored for Black Friday!
And what’s cool too is that I’ll be shopping for all of these items in real time with some of my followers during my virtual shopping event on Black Friday! Interested in joining me and shopping your Black Friday list? Click to here to sign up – it’s totally free and will be lots of fun!
My Personal Black Friday Shopping List
Okay, so onto my personal shopping list! Take a peek at what I’ll be hunting for, click the image links to check out the retail info, and share your thoughts in the comment section below. Are there any similar items that you’re after? (FYI, the items on my list are in no particular order).
Black & Dark Wash Skinny Jeans
I’m in need of a new pair of black & dark wash skinny jeans – preferably mid-rise jeans as those fit me the best, but I’m open to high-rise as well since those are great at concealing midsections! 😉 They are great for wearing with pumps, flats, and boots! Darker-hued jeans can also look more dressy so they’re extremely versatile that way too! Here are some that I’m considering below:
Brown Ankle Boots
I recently donated an older pair of brown ankle boots that were so nice and comfy! I’ve really missed a pair like that especially as we’ve moved into the fall season. Brown ankle boots can be pretty much worn with anything and are quite versatile. What do you think of these options?
Tall Brown Boots
I have plenty of tall black boots, I don’t have a pair of brown ones…yet. I’m determined to get a pair of brown boots to complement any warm, neutral looks that I style. I’m open to calf-high, knee-high, or over-the-knee boots. I’m really in love with the Linea Paolo pair below. I may spring for two pairs of boots this time around – I love the riding boot style because they’re great for casual looks and usually pretty comfortable, but sleek-cut dressy boots can instantly enhance any look!
Burberry Trench Coat
Okay, I kind of cheated on this one! This was definitely on my Black Friday shopping list, but I couldn’t resist and already got it a couple of weeks ago (pics to come soon!). This is a momentous month for me because I turned 40 years old! So, I treated myself to the gorgeous Burberry Kensington Cashmere Trench Coat (the first coat below). I wore it for the first time on a recent trip to NYC and it was so luxurious and warm at the same time. Every woman should own a Burberry trench, especially a cashmere one! Check out the trench that I got (the first coat below) as well as some other great choices from Burberry.
Burberry Scarf
And while we’re on the topic of Burberry, I also need a new scarf! The Burberry scarf can be spotted instantly with its famous check pattern. They come in various colors and sizes to fit your own personal style. I think I may go for the traditional Burberry colors (since they match with so much), but I have to admit that the soft pink one scarf is really appealing too. I have a cute pink trench that it’d be a fab match for! I’ll report on which one I buy! Check out the options and retail info right here:
Seamless Bra
It’s about that time! I’m due for a new set of bras! I always say that bras (and underwear in general) are the most important items that you wear every day. They’re essential to creating a smooth silhouette! It’s recommended that you replace your bras every six months to a year (and check out other bra tips here). I’m within that time frame right now, but I use visual triggers to determine when it’s time to replace my bra. I know my bras’ time is up because their elastic straps no longer have any give.
I’m on the hunt for a seamless bra as they provide the smoothest, cleanest silhouette. Personally, I try not to go for bras that have lace trimming or appliques. While they’re pretty to look, these added trims can create a ‘bumpy’ silhouette on fitted clothing. Here are a few brands and styles I’m considering:
Seamless Panties
Along with my bras, a new set of panties is on deck! Like bras, a panty’s life will run its course.
For comfort and breathability, I always opt for cotton underwear, preferably bikini or French-cut style. There’s nothing worse than wearing an uncomfortable pair of panties so you have to find a style that makes you feel like you’re not wearing them at all! Another must for me is for the panty to be seamless (for all of the same reasons I mentioned above for my bras). Here are some great brands that I’m checking out:
Turtlenecks
For the past couple of years, I gravitated away from turtlenecks – no real reason why – just a change in style preference. But coming into this season, that totally changed! I’ve been craving turtleneck tops or sweaters. I’d like a couple of ‘staple’ turtlenecks, but also desire something that’s a bit more dramatic, too! (Check out my #1 tip on how to look stunning in a turtleneck). Now, which one(s) should I get from the selection below?
Sweaters
One other item I’m after is new sweaters! Cozy sweaters make you feel soooo good in autumn and winter. Sweaters can also be uber stylish and add that bit of panache to your outfit while keeping you warm. Fitted sweaters are my preference (remember silhouettes is key), but loose, comfortable sweaters work can be cute too!
Puffer Jacket
I’m looking for a stylish, yet functional jacket that works for both the autumn and winter seasons. I have a puffer jacket right now, but I’ve had it for a few years and am ready for something new. I’ll still keep it because it’s in great shape (this will be my new fall bike-riding jacket), but I’m looking for a jacket that’s more stylish overall. I’m considering one of these puffer jackets below and am leaning on the pink AVEC LES FILLES. What do you think?
Knee-High / Trouser Socks
I’ve been wearing the heck out of my boots so far this season and need a ‘reboot’ in my knee-high / trouser socks game. When I wear a skirt or dress with tall boots during this time of year, I usually also wear pantyhose to keep my legs warm. But wearing boots directly over pantyhose always results in small snags or even runs on the hose. For an extra layer of warmth, a snugger fit in the boot, and more importantly, the prevention of snagged pantyhose, I opt to wear knee-high or tall trouser socks on top of my hose. I like socks that have a bit of pattern to them – even if no one can see them, LOL. I wonder which ones I’ll end up with?
Statement Pumps
I love shoes and am ready for something cute and snazzy this season! I’m looking for a pump and that’s basically my only requirement, LOL. I’m flexible on color, pattern, and design. The statement pump I select will be one that I can build an outfit around, which is so much fun to do! Here are some pumps that caught my eye…take a closer look by clicking on the image links:
Tank Tops / Camisoles
Tank tops and camisoles are a wardrobe staple for me. I replace these the most often because I wear them ALL the time. They are great for layering and depending on the style and time of year, they can be worn on their own. I tend to stay with neutral colors because they give the most flexibility for layering, but accent colors can come in handy for a pop of color. When it comes to tanks, I’m usually a 14 & Union gal, but I’m really interested in Hanro’s options this time around. Here’s a closer look at what’s on my shortlist…
Long-Sleeve Fitted Tees
T-shirts are certainly a wardrobe staple for me. But I’m pretty picky about them in terms of the fit and quality. I love wearing tees that are fitted close to the body and have necklines that are preferably V-neck, boat neck, or even a cowl neck (check out various necklines here). I also really like my tees to be made of soft cotton or jersey material. It feels so luxurious and is comfortable to wear, especially for casual or lounging looks. Here are a few that have caught my attention:
Boot Shapers
Last, but not least, I need some new boot shapers. There are different styles out there, but I prefer shapers that not only shape the boot but also has an attached hook which conveniently allows me to hang them in my closet. Regardless of style, boot shapers are a relatively inexpensive way to maintain the look and style of your boots. It helps prevent leather (or vinyl) cracking that comes from unsupported folds – who wants that, right? Here are some viable options.
So, there you have it! That’s my entire Black Friday Shopping List. I can’t wait to shop for these items on Black Friday in hopes that I can get some great deals across the board. I’ll be sure to report back with my latest acquisitions with pics, so definitely watch this space!
Stylishly Yours,
Roxanne XOXO
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