Having fun with accessories

The right accessories can really pop an outfit. Less is always better and classic or traditional pieces are best in corporate environments. Larger, more dramatic fashion pieces are good for less conservative environments or for evening. Remember, there is a language to your accessories. Quality is the word that should come to mind when dressing for traditional or corporate workplaces. Do not wear earrings, a bracelet and necklace all at the same time. Remember scale when choosing new pieces. Have fun, be adventurous and keep your receipt in case you change your mind once you get home.

Save time in the morning...

Several people have asked me how to get dressed for work without having to think or make decisions. It seems that many women want to look great everyday but they do not want to put in a lot of effort making decisions about “what” goes with “what.” A great alternative to putting together ensembles from separates is to move toward wearing suits.
By having five or more suits, you can easily solve this problem. Couple them with different blouses, shells or sweaters and jewelry, and you can create many looks without a lot of thought.
TIP: Always plan on having your “off the rack” suit tailored. Nothing is more powerful looking than a woman in a perfectly fitted suit. Ill-fitting suits under-mind your credibility.

I just saved time and money!

Every once in a while you pop into a store expecting to find nothing but luckily find everything you need. I hit the jackpot last week when Karen, a superb sales associate, helped me consider some new looks at the Chico’s in Friendship Heights, Maryland. I was desperate to find white and beige sleeveless shells to wear under suits. I wanted them to have a scoop neck, but I did not want them to be low-cut. I had tried 7 stores with out results. Not only did I find the shells in a rainbow of colors, I also found some new jackets. Chico’s has added some fitted items that are very flattering. I have always loved the fabrics at Chico’s but hated the boxy cuts. Now I have four new items to pair with my great fitting Chico’s pants.
And just to complete the look, Karen showed me some fabulous jewelry. I saved so much time and money (many items were on sale). If you are in the DC area go see Karen at Chico’s and then TRY ON the items she suggests.

You just might be pleasantly surprised.

Do you look tired at the end of the day?

You get a call to join a group of friends for dinner after work. You take a quick look in the mirror and you look like you need a complete overhaul. Don’t worry! Here are a few tricks that will have you looking great in no time.

1.If you have mascara residue or concealer that has creased under your eyes, dab a bit of any moisturizer under your eyes and wipe gently with a soft tissue.
2 Even your skin tone with a swipe of powder foundation and then apply some blush.
3.Freshen your liner
4.Apply your favorite lip color

There you go… a two minute, fresh look for your fun night out!

Is it safe to get a manicure or pedicure?

It may be time to rethink your health when you drop in to get a manicure or pedicure. Do you really want to breath those noxious fumes for 30 minutes? I haven’t found a nail salon that has enough power in their exhaust system to completely clear the air. Another health hazard is the transference of serious illness (Hepatitis, HIV, etc.) from nail files and cuticle nippers used on infected people. Don’t want to give up your favorite treat? Here is a solution: Take your own manicure tools and ask that they be used. If they refuse, go elsewhere - your health is too important.

Do you need a concealer?

Do you have dark circles, broken capillaries or dark age spots on your face?
You should consider checking with a cosmetic dermatologist or plastic surgeon to see if laser treatment can eliminate you problem. But until then, try using a good concealer that perfectly matches your skin tone, to hide these pesky but common problems. My favorite is Glo Mineral, ,but so many companies have perfected their concealers, giving us lots to choose from. I use a dabbing techniques opposed to a wiping stroke. Tap, tap, tap to apply more or to blend. Concealer can be worn alone or under your foundation. Set with a bit of powder and your skin will look even and younger.

Are you a shlumpadinka?

I love that word, and in case you do not watch Oprah shlumpadinka means ”frumpy.”
Yes, we all feel like we look frumpy at times but just what is it that really takes us from vibrant, cool women to an over - the - hill frump? Our hairstyle, our clothing are big contributors to the frump factor but, THE MOST IMPORTANT GIVE AWAY IS: extra weight. Extra weight not only makes us look older, but it also inhibits the way we move. We are not a light on our feet, and flexible when we are not fit. In addition, our knees and feet often hurt keeping us in a catch 22 when it comes to increasing movement. Losing those extra pounds can be tricky but ever person I know who has done an organized program such as Weight Watchers, Diet To Go or Jenny Craig, have lost weight and kept it off. Once you really commit and have support, your odds greatly improve for your success. You can do it!