The Style Skinny

Bulletin-The Style Skinny Will Soon Finish its Stylish Spring Cleaning!

Sun, 23 May 2010 23:37:00 GMT

The Style Skinny Will Return for Fashion Fun in the Sun!
See You this Summer...

Distance makes the Haute Heart Grow Fonder...The Style Skinny misses you!

The Style Skinny has been on a brief hiatus as it has been updating its look for Summer 2010. The Skinny remains your #1 go-to fashion & beauty guide. Equivalent to a classic white button down, it will never go out of style.

Watch out for exciting developments, a "REVAMPed" layout, and a new addition equipped with expert advice! Get on trend when The Skinny returns. Thank you for your posh patience!

Award Show 101- What We Can Learn from the Stars' Style

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 03:10:00 GMT

With award season in full swing, the past few weeks have been fashion packed. Most of you have already decided which looks you loved and those you hated. Additionally, you're probably sick of being bombarded with the experts' hit and miss lists that are spewing out of each and every media outlet.

Forget about the frocks that popped or flopped and turn your attention to how you can take the stars' fashion choices to your own closet. Award your wardrobe with these fresh fashion ideas that were sparked by red carpet walkers.

The Globes had gobs of glamour dripping on the carpet along with the unexpected raindrops. We were attacked by black, as it was countless celebs' choice color. An onyx ensemble can sometimes be a snooze but Penelope's phenomenal look can teach you how to take the boring out of black. Make 'SST' your black outfit ritual just as The Jersey Shore's Situation and Pauly D do 'GTL' daily.

Silhouette, Shine, & Texture are the winning combination to get the most bang out of your black. Make your outfit's silhouette sing by choosing one with an interesting neckline like Cruz's off the shoulder style. Incorporate shine into your attire by picking items with sequins or satin accents; this breaks up the monotony of the somber hue. Black also needs texture to stand out; look for a piece made with multiple fabrics to add drama and create dazzling dimension to your getup.

On the opposite end of the color spectrum, some stars opted for white gowns this award season namely Kate Hudson. Her Emilio Pucci dress, perfectly placed Cartier necklace, and a whole lot of back brought Hudson center stage at the SAG awards. Kate celebrated her own shape instead of trying to create a faux figure as many of us do.

With no push-up bra in sight, Hudson took advantage of her small-chested frame by sporting a high neckline that gave the area a larger appearance. The bejeweled side insert drew attention to her teeny-tiny waist while the exposed back showed her sexy side.

There are a few lessons to be learned from Kate's SAG style. Always wear clothes that show off your best body part whether that means a lower cut top or a higher hemline. Never try to be something you're not by wearing clothes that accentuate your physique rather than trying to fake one you wish you had. Try wearing jewelry in an unexpected way to create a signature style like Hudson's backwards necklace. Most importantly, love the body you're in and that self-confidence will make you sizzle.

After the SAGs, this year's most revered songstress, Taylor Swift, created a stir at The Grammys. Swift was honored for her signature song writing, angelic voice, and Cinderella style. She spoke about herself without words by presenting herself as a winner in her own fairytale. Taylor put out the image of the Belle of the Ball as she radiated down the red carpet. The beauty dressed in blue looked age appropriate while letting it be known we were witnessing her happy ending.

The Grammy grabber showed us why image is important. Your outer appearance can reflect your inner self, which is a powerful tool. Before you get dressed decide what message it is you want to send. Do you want it to be known for being a polished professional, a classic beauty, or a full on fashionista? Whatever it may be, use your mode of dress to let the world know who you are.

Get my Valentine's Day fashion advice in my article, Fashion Tips for All Relationships, featured in the February issue of Buzz Entertainment Magazine...

Read the Article

Scarf Down Some Style

Sat, 16 Jan 2010 00:07:00 GMT

Accessorizing is the tiny golden key that unlocks the door to dressing with style. Go ask Alice, if you don't put on the accessory labeled 'WEAR ME' your outfit may shrink too small to be seen. Then again, you must refrain from reaching for that unsightly item just because it is labeled with the word 'ACCESSORY'. The lack of glamour will grow too tall that it will definitely be noticed with raised eyebrows. I suggest you spruce up your outfit with a foolproof piece, the scarf. You better get your accessory act together fast before fashionistas begin to chase you chanting, "Off with her head!"

The scarf materialized in ancient Rome making its mark on the accessory world. The legendary piece of fabric is not only timeless, it never discriminates. The scarf lives in closets everywhere regardless of the person's sex, race, income level, or age. Many wear a scarf to simply keep warm while others take advantage of its fabulous ability to perfectly combine fashion and function. If you are going to wrap a scarf around your neck anyway, why not do it with a bit of panache? Better yet, ignore its utility all together and use it as a trendy trimming for your next ensemble. The list of scarf styles is just as long its existence so here's a brief how-to-wear it wrap up.

Let's focus on the 'Fashion Scarf' which basically sums up this all fashion no function scarf. It will breathe life into your look and has vast versatility. Here are my four fave ways to wear it:

The Kerchief

Fold a scarf into square and tie it around your neck on a diagonal like Rhianna did above. Prova for CO-OP Leo Sandinista Scarf ($395) or Old Navy Polka Dot Scarf ($12.50) are great scarves to get the killer cowgirlesque look.

The SlipKnot

The traditional slipknot style like the Gossip Girl star, Michelle Trachtenbert, sports above is a great classic way to tie a scarf. However, I am sure most of you know how to fold a scarf in half and pull the ends thru the center of the loop. Okay so here's a twist, instead of pulling both ends of the scarf thru the loop take one and pull it over the bottom half of the loop. Then take the other end and pull it under the bottom half of the loop. This is what I like to call The Styled SlipKnot. Try Yarnz Russian Doll Scarf ($165) or grab Topshop's Clock Chain Scarf ($32).

The Reverse Wrap Around

Take a long large scarf like Madwell's Wild Rose Print Scarf ($48) and place the middle of the scarf in the front of your neck. Next take one end and pull it around to the front and do the same on for the other end. This type of tie is sometimes considered a boho look so go eco-chic like Rachel Bilson with TDM's Design Sarah Crinkle Darcy Scarf ($108).

The Faux Neck warmer

Yep, you read it correctly it's faux on warmth but has real deal style. This is an intentionally messy, unkept look similar to bed head hair. Take a long gauzy scarf and start wrapping. Pull it around your neck as many times as you want. You can take the ends and push it up under the scarf or leave it hangin' like Miss Moss does. Get Kate's effortlessly chic style with Yarnz's Cameo Cashmere Scarf ($122.50) or Virgina Johnson's Waterfall Scarf (on sale-$139.69).

Any way you wrap it the scarf will bring a bold benefit to your wardrobe.

Hello 2010 Hair Ideas

Sat, 16 Jan 2010 00:05:00 GMT

Looking for a quick, countdown-ready coif to kick off 2010? You're in luck! I recently received VIP ideas from celebrity hair stylist, Stacey Lyn Weinstein. As the owner of Once Upon a Bride, Stacey and her staff bring bridal beauty fantasies to life while Stacey's salon, Loft 26 provides the ultimate in cut, color, and top-notch treatments for your tresses. Here are a few of her favorite, glam go-to dos with DYI steps that will liven up your locks for New Years Eve.

Choose which of these styles will work best for you by considering where you are going, what you are wearing, and the vibe you want to exude. Loft 26 is a Phytologie Concept Salon; Stacey advises to use all Phyto styling products to achieve the sought after style.

Stacey Suggestion #1

A low, textured romantic updo similar to Blake Lively's

Here's how:

Work on clean, dry hair. Start by using Phyto Pro Intense Volume Mousse at the roots for volume. Curl hair with 2 curling irons with different barrel sizes; one small and one large. This will give you waves that vary in shape and size. Spray hair with Phyto Phtyocurl Defining Spray, then open up the waves using your fingers. Leave the front of your hair out and tie the rest into a loose ponytail. Take the ponytail and wrap it around like a doughnut using bobby pins to secure it. The waves will give a loose, pretty tousled look . Next, pull the sides of hair back in sections to the top of the ponytail. You can choose to pin all the hair back or let a few pieces stay out naturally.

Stacey Suggestion #2

Let your hair down sexy & big like Beyonce for a fun night out

Here's how:

Work on dry hair using Phyto Phytovolume Actif Volumizer Spray all over, then redry. Use large electric rollers on the crown of your head for some major lift. While setting, spray each section with Phyto Phytocurl Defining Spray. The remaining hair can be curled with a curling iron, then rolled up and secured with metal roller clips. Spray hair again with Phyto Phytocurl Defining Spray and let it sit for 20 minutes. Take down hair and use Phyto Phytolisse Ultra Smoothing Finishing Serum to create a soft sexy look.

Stacey Suggestion #3

Take it from Kate, use braids for a casual pulled back look

Here's how:

Work on dry hair and use Phyto Pro Intense Volume Mousse at the roots. Redry hair with a large, round metal brush. Take a extra large barreled curling iron and wave your hair, spray with Phyto Phytocurl Defining Spray and let it sit for 20 minutes. Take a section on one side and create a very loose braid and booby pin it at the nape of your neck. Repeat on the opposite side. Once the 2 braids meet you can secure them with a small rubber band. Then take the middle section of your hair and sneak the rubber band section underneath. With the loose braids on the sides and hair in the back center draped over, your hair will look styled but natural. Another option is to simply do one low traditional braid in ode to the hottest hair trend of 2010's runway.

Schedule an appointment at Loft 26 for an elite experience, 212-414-2626. If your wedding bells are close to ringing schedule your Once Upon a Bride hair and makeup trial asap 212-353-2350, they book up fast! Thank you Stacey for the hottest in hair help.

The Nothing to Wear New Years Solution

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 15:31:00 GMT

Make a New Year's resolution to never wait until the last minute to decide what you are going to wear. The countdown to 2010 has begun and you are experiencing some serious fashion frustration. A frantic, last minute shopping trip for the ideal frock will not help you beat the ticking clothing clock. You will either end up spending too much mullah on something that is so-so or even worse find nada! Turn to your own closet for comfort as your loyal LBD will be there waiting to ring in the New Year. This option is not a bore; it is what all the little black dress hype is all about! Use this basic black to create a rocking New Year's Eve ensemble. Here are some stunning LBD ideas to ring in the New Year in style.

1. A Laced Up Look

Pair your LBD with this seasons' hottest ticket, textured tights. Opt for a lacy pair and make it the focal point of your outfit. Keep everything else simple and let the tights make all noise. This combo works best when worn with white. Wrap on a white patent leather belt and decorate your lobes with black & white chandeliers. Another option is to throw on tons of trendy pearls and black fabric accented jewelry. Grab a dark, subtly textured clutch and slip on a pair of pumped up black platforms with sky scraping heels. Prep yourself for your midnight kiss with crimson lipstick which will also give your getup its finishing touch.

2. Leopard, Sequins, and Gold…OH MY

Say goodbye to 2009 cloaked in a sexy sequin jacket, leopard peep-toe pumps, and chunky gold jewelry. It makes sense to snazz up your LBD for NYE with a festive sequin piece. Try a toned down colored sequin instead of black for ball dropping fun. Leopard pumps will help you cut the rug while the animal print breaks up your outfit. Leopard, red, and gold is my favorite magical medley. Make this mixture yours by adding gobs of gold jewelry and a red clutch to your lucky LBD. Paint your nails and the town red!

3. DECOrate Yourself

Dress up your LBD for a more elegant affair. Transform your threads by pinning an art deco brooch to the center of your neckline, at your waist, or on one of your dress straps. This breathes new life into your black basic with a fanciful flair. Work in some color with an eye grabbing accent shoe. I chose blue; inspired by Carrie's "engagement" shoe. Throw some of your heels' hue sparingly into your jewelry choices to make your outfit pop when the ball drops. A blinged out bag, smoke show eyes, and old Hollywood curls will top off this number for the upcoming countdown.

Now that you have escaped a dressing disaster, party like it's 2010.

All Puffed Up -The Free Anti-Puff Formula

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 00:05:00 GMT

No matter if you were naughty or nice this year you most likely received the annual present of post-holiday puffiness. Late nights, tiresome travel,and seriously salty foods have probably gifted you with swollen, puffy peepers and santa-sized chubby cheeks. Don't fret, you can rid yourself of these inflated leftovers before your New Year's soiree without forking over a ton of dough on the latest anti-puff cream. There is a foolproof fix out there that is free of charge! All you need is a bowl of ice, some freezing cold water, and a little bit of courage.

Fight back against facial bloat by taking a trip to your freezer when you wake up in the morning. Fill up a bowl with ice and bring it to your bathroom. Run blood-curdling cold water into your sink or a large bowl. When the sink or bowl becomes halfway full dump in the ice. Here comes the hard part, take a deep breath and submerge your face into the numbing water for 20 seconds, come up for air, then repeat.

The frosty ice water will quickly depuff your face because it acts as a restricting agent that narrows your blood vessels. It reduces the heavy flow of blood and fluids to your face which helps deflate ballooned areas. If you have dry skin, try slabbing on some cold cream beforehand. Your skin will be left dewy and super soft.

After you dry off your face, you will have more jolt than you do from your daily java. The dunk may be daunting at first, but well worth it considering it is one of the best beauty wake up calls out there. Many celebs swear by this bloat-busting beauty remedy as they too awake puffed up. Don't believe me? The proof is in the pudding, or should I say the puffy pictures!

Style Seeker-Out & About Atlanta

Sun, 20 Dec 2009 15:30:00 GMT

Staple item shopping has taken the back seat to steals and deals that have left our fashion futures in jeopardy. At times I find myself tempted to scream from the rooftops that it is okay and necessary to invest in quality pieces! Affordable price tags have seduced us to overspend on inexpensive items that have nearing expiration dates. Popularly priced fashion finds add up faster than Tiger can text. Check your bank account, I bet you will find that the money you spent in H&M over the past year is equivalent to a pair of everlasting Louboutins plus an eternal YSL bag. Before style stocks begin to drop I decided to feature a wise investor in this week's Out & About.

As I was about to get my shop on at Intermix in Phipps Plaza, I noticed a fashion fundamentalist, Rahmir, who was wearing key investment pieces that would be a perfect example for The Style Skinny. I decided to cash in on Rahmir's core clothing choices. The boots and belt formed the outfit's fierce foundation which she then built upon. Her timeless Ralph Lauren Riding Boots will not need to get off their haute high horse anytime soon as they will never be out of the race. Quality boots will never be a glamour gamble as long as you stick to a classic style in a black or neutral shade.

Another way to bank on picking the correct items to invest in is to pay attention to your dressing habits. The pieces you gravitate towards the most often should be those you buy into. Rahmir shared with me that she always wears a belt even with jeans making her hefty priced Hermes Constance Belt worth the expense. To figure out why this investment makes sense apply the cost per wear formula. This can guide you in deciding whether or not you should make a pricey purchase. What is cost per wear? It is a fashionable formula that breaks down the worth of an item. For instance, a $100 top worn 10x costs $10.00 per wear. Staple item investments make more sense when you do the material math as their shelf-life is long and style timeless.

Rahmir's fur vest is detached from a wool blazer which brings me to another type of investment. The Elizabeth and James Wool Blazer , available at Intermix, has a rabbit fur vest attached giving you the two-in-one bonus item. Before I get PETA punished let me explain that I am not promoting fur, I am spotlighting smart style ideas. This blazer is $795 but should be seen as a $400 blazer and a $400 fur vest.

Thank you Rahmir for sharing your fashion investments! The Style Skinny will feature a new outfit weekly in the Style Seeker-Out & About Atlanta. If you would like to share your signature style and live in the Atlanta area please send photos to info@revampstyling.com.

Holiday Party Attire Answers

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 21:44:00 GMT

Holiday parties have flooded social calendars this merry month. Blackberry keys are being rapidly pressed by frostbitten fingers, to strategically schedule holiday soirees. Once you have squeezed in every engagement, you are relieved to no longer be treading on thin ice. Before your holiday spirit sets back in here's something that will send shivers down your spine; what are you going to wear? Being a style Grinch is a hard job but in the end I will have spread chic cheer and valuable advice. Here is a 'what to put-on party guide' that will help you remain within a dress code while making a subtle statement with North Star sparkle.

Let's start with the most fashion frustrating festivity, the good old company holiday party! As we mingle, our minds are caught in a blizzard of worry that we might drink too much or are over/under dressed. Do not be a corporate clothing casuality, instead wear a dress that screams sexy sophistication. The dress should be impeccably tailored, in a heavier fabric, and super structured. Forget draping, silks, and ruffles as they can go great or terribly wrong. If your company is a bit more relaxed opt for a higher hemline on the Black Halo Jackie O dress shown above in blue. It was inspired by Roland Mouret's Galaxy Dress, worn by JLO, and looks as a amazing as a hot kiss feels under the mistleltoe. It seems as if it was specifically made for women to have the proper frock for a first date or a work function. Say your company is a bit more style stuffy, I suggest you select the below-the-knee hemline also offered in the Black Halo Jackie O style. Wear the dress in a color other than black, red, or green like the blue shown above. Putting on a typical color will make you fade into the background as you will be a celebration cliche.

Switching glam gears, there's the cozy house party and the cocktail party in a home. This is a lot trickier than decorating the tree. You will need to be prepared to make a style switch quick. Start out with considering how you were invited, evite or a mailed invitation? If casual seems to be the direction, try pairing a a Top Shop Sequin Blazer, J Brand jeans, and heels a 'la Olivia. Bring a hair tie, flats, chandelier earrings, and red lipstick. If the other guests are more dressed up smear on some ravishing red lipstick and throw on a piece of statement jewelry. The partygoers are more dressed down? Kick off your heels and slide into flats while pulling your hair into an informal pony. When a flirty,frilly mini and jeans are inappropriate, wear a dress with a more laid-back piece that you can later remove. Olivia Wilde has gifted you with an excellent example, wearing a leather jacket with a more glam garb. Lose the leather if the gathering is fancy or leave it on if it has a more mellow mood. Additionally, apply the dress up or down tricks I already mentioned.

Saving the best for last, we have the official cocktail party. They're ultra fun, fashionably fancy and do not cause as much clothing confusion. However, it does get style sticky without you even noticing, until you get there! Your dress is riding up, it's too tight, or your cleavage is no where near covered. Stick with a glitzy, flashy frock that is bold in fabric and conservative in cut. The way to go is show off your gams a bit and cover the rest with a long sleeve number similar to Sienna's pick. Tone down the tinsel town look by wearing your hair down and under styled, little to no jewelry, and natural makeup. On the other hand, you could go all out classic cocktail with a short, strapless girly mini like Natalie. Take a tip on styling the playful outfit by removing the belt and replacing it with a satin sash or ribbon. Also an unexpected clutch color will help kick off the night. Try an up-do to push the look more posh. Make sure you can sit down, bend over, and walk around without feeling uncomfortable. If the dress aced this test it's a winter wonderland winner!

The real key is to carry yourself with confidence. An outstanding outfit or a beauty blunder will not be noticed without it!

'Tis the Season Shopping -Beauty Gifts under $75

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 13:43:00 GMT

As a personal shopper, I have mastered the art of selecting ideal items for others. It can be a trying task but never during tinsel time. Believe it or not, Santa season shopping is extra easy due to the countless choices that are as sweet as a candy cane. Trust me, I have not been guzzling gallons of eggnog. The truth is the holiday hunt is not as hard as you think. Companies have already created the gift set for you! This will be the one time that talking shop will not bore you to death as I have getting gorgeous gift ideas that are under $75.00!

1. The All Nighter Styling Powder $18

2. Benefit The Realness of Concealness $32

3. bliss Jolly,Happy Soles Spa Set $64

4. shu uemera Eyelash Curler $18-$24

5. Henri Bendel Centennial Stripe Medium Makeup Bag $45

6. Rosebud Three Lavish Layers of Lip Balm $16

7. NARS 'D. Lovely' Lip Gloss Duo Set $49

8. MAC Brush Bags $49.50

9. bareMinerals Smoky Eye Tutorial Kit $32

10. Jean Paul Gaultier Classique Gift Set $69

11. Frederic Fekkai Glossing Set $40

12. Tocca Deluxe Candela $62

13. Philosophy Celebrate! Bucket $30

There you go, gorge gifts sent down the cyber chimney all wrapped up in a big red bow by your present pro. Your loved ones will be beyond pleased with any of these presents of pretty. My mama told me, you better NOT shop around!

Style Seeker-Out & About in Atlanta

Thu, 31 Dec 2009 21:35:00 GMT

As I scanned the city for this week's style specimen, I realized I already had dashing data at my fingertips. Without further thread testing, I decided to catch up with my client and friend to show off her style solutions. Dina, the effervescent East Andrews Event planner, was buzzing all over Atlanta prepping for Thursday's opening of EAs' new speakeasy lounge, Prohibition. The busy bee was kind enough to let me snap a shot of her so I could dissect her outfit for this week's Out & About in Atlanta.

Skirts are thankfully making a comeback as they have been overshadowed by dresses over the past couple of years. Upon their return, hemlines are now hiked up but look perfect when paired with opaque or textured tights. Dina dons this mix perfectly with a Monteau gray wool skirt she found at Fox's and black HUE Super Opaque Tights ($12.50). The social butterfly topped the sleek skirt with J. Crew's Dream Turtleneck Sweater ($60.00) and trusted her Steven by Steve Madden Intyce Riding Boots ($130.00) to help her rush around comfortably. She packed everything she needed into her roomy, gorgeous Gucci Pelham Hobo (1250.00) which is her new fave piece to pull over her shoulder.

Thank you Dina for sharing your fashion finds! The Style Skinny will feature a new outfit weekly in the Style Seeker-Out & About in Atlanta. If you would like to share your signature style and live in the Atlanta area please send photos to info@revampstyling.com.

Trend Tip Off-Bring on the Bows

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 21:23:00 GMT

A common holiday staple is now a flirty fashion trend this yuletide carol. Bows are booming this season as their sexy innocence is lighting up our look like a christmas tree. Decorate yourself with this divine detail as a bow is not only the fab finishing touch to a present it's also a strong force of fierce femininity. Get in the holiday spirit and bring a bow to more than just your gift wrap.

Many trends tend to be intimidating but bows do not challenge us to leave our clothing comfort zone. However, bows have a bad rep for being ultra girly, cutesy, and age inappropriate. Break the bow stigma by using them to accent your outfit with simplicity and refinement.

Color plays a huge role in taking this look luxe. Opting for a bow in black transforms you from schoolgirl to sophisticated siren within seconds. The pitch-dark pigment brings elegance to bow blouses and fanciful frocks. Among my favorites are French Connection's Bonny Cotton Asymmetrical dress on sale for $151.00, Forever 21's Couture Bow Sheen dress for $29.80, and Derek Lam's strapless bow dress (shown above) priced at $715.00. The above See By Chloe Strapless Twill Bustier Top or Coast Beauty Bow Silk Bustier will create an alluring nighttime ensemble when pairing it with J Brand skinny jeans and Brian Atwood's fiery peep toe pumps.

Toughen up the trend by selecting items that combine bows with leather, chains, studs, and zippers. Hardware and rough materials tone down dainty, adorable bows and vice versa. A great example are the popular multi-stranded chunky chain necklaces with gross grain ribbons tied in bows. The contrasting combo is beautifully balanced thanks to its unified masculine and feminine components. Get the magnificent mismatch with Lee Angel's Chain Bow Necklace shown above. Another way to take advantage of this boy-girl style is to put a bow on a masculine piece. Newsboy caps have an androgynous allure that is amplified when a bow is attached much like the above cabby cap.

On the other end of the spectrum, you can slap on a bewitching bow to an austere ensemble ensuring you will look biker chic rather than a hardcore Harley Davidson dame. For instance, driving gloves can be severe for some but are easily softened with with a sweet bow as the Carolina Amato Driving Gloves do for only $46.00! Alexander Mcqueen has a natural knack for giving a tender touch to virile elements namely with his skull scarves. He also does so by bringing bows into his line in a unconventional way. He uses the shape of the bow rather than an actual one to create a classy clutch. Speaking of shape, try rocking a bow that is tied in tiers. I adore the perfectly layered effect of YSL's Bow Satchel and Christian Louboutin Anemone Pumps.

If you are die hard girly girl go ahead and pump up your prissiness. Wrap your wrists in pearls and bows with Kate Spades New York "Waldorf" bracelet and embellish your ears elegant with Juicy Couture Bow earrings. Channel your inner Blair Waldorf and push back your lovely locks with a haute bow headband.

Now that you have been schooled in styling this trend go for the bow!

Out & About in Atlanta featuring Lisa from The Real Housewives of Atlanta

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 21:31:00 GMT

Atlanta was buzzing last week at the grand opening of TAGS boutique, owned by Kandi Burruss from The Real Housewives of Atlanta. The sweet singer/songwriter stood TALL and proud in her yummy YSL Tribtoo pin heeled pumps. While I enviously eyed Kandi's killer heels, I was abruptly wooed away by a red-hot ruffled jacket wrapped around her cute castmate, Lisa Wu Hartwell. As the housewife was bombarded by fans' flash bulbs, I too clamored for a snap shot of the reality star to feature in this week's Out & About in Atlanta.

Lisa's trusty stylist, Tracy Sipp, gave me the lowdown on her look. The black, cropped military ruffled jacket is made by Free People and can be yours for $148.00. Even though the coat is not Closet Freak, Lisa still flaunted her clothing line's signature detail and hot Fall trend, tiered ruffles. She did, however, sport a Closet Freak tank which she tucked into Miss Me Jeans showing off the denim's studs, crystal, and rhinestone embellishments. The jeans were purchased at an Atlanta favorite, Fab'rik for $108.00. Hartwell's hair was pulled back into a sleek, low pony showcasing her sparkling diamond hoops. The Bravo babe maintained her balance in a pair of black YSL booties that perfectly complimented her ensemble.

The store opening was definitely a success and the place to be Thursday, even Big Poppa made an appearance!

Thank you Lisa and Tracy for sharing your fashion finds. The Style Skinny will feature a new outfit weekly in The Savvy Style Seeker -Out & About in Atlanta. If you would like to share your signature style and live in Atlanta please send photos to info@revampstyling.com.

Walk the Trend Tightrope

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:02:00 GMT

Tights have taken over this season and have not stopped boasting about their bold colors, contemporary textures, and posh patterns. They have definitely earned bragging rights considering they paraded down almost every Fall '09 runway and have become A-listers' new best friends. As a loyal hosiery follower I am going to take their lead and continue to spread word as to why tights take the cake. A pair of hot hose can offer an easy, affordable way to complete or transform your look. You can let them run into the spotlight taking center stage of your ensemble or be your outfit's finishing touch. Take a walk on the wild side and liven up your legs with a pair of this season's spunky stockings.

I always recommend using colors and textures to build a beautiful outfit. Texture and color give your look dimension, can mask or emphasize specific areas of your figure, and add a visually chic curve ball to simple apparel. A colored pair of tights can compliment most patterns as Gucci's opaque raspberry hose did on its Fall 2006 runway. I absolutely adore this combo so I just had to dig up the picture. It is a great example of how to pull color from a pattern to accessorize your clothing.

Color can also be used in the complete opposite way by wearing the same hue from head-to-toe. A monochromatic ensemble, like Jennifer Aniston's glam grey get-up, is sophisticated and beyond flattering. A monochromatic outfit is not at all tacky but needs to be matched with the midas touch. To achieve the look wear subdued neutral colors like grey, navy, or brown and avoid bright over-the top shades. Make sure to limit ruffles and adornments while sticking to basic neat, structured silhouettes.

Reese Witherspoon got a leggy look when she opted for comfy grey merino wool tights with a cute navy blue dress making her a winter style winner. Rachel Bilson wore a banging black sheath with bright flats and opaque black tights that every woman should have in their drawer at all times. They are an absolute necessity as they can take your Spring/Summer pieces into the cooler seasons and be paired with just about anything. Speak of the dapper devil, check out my favorite Fall trend of opaque black tights with light denim shorts that Lilly Allen is sporting above. Everyone from Kate Moss to Katie Holmes have been exhibiting this fashion forward ensemble. I personally am obsessed with the unexpected duo and have sported the style a few times. I felt crazy chic but keep in mind this trend is not for the style shy.

Crochet, lace, rips, and holes in legwear are making lasting impressions on fashionistas everywhere. I am always gossiping about Blake Lively's hit-or-miss style choices but when she is dressed by the genius costumers of Gossip Girl her threads take new heights. While shooting the WB drama, Blake was put in rhubarb zig-zag crochet stockings with a hunter green dress giving her a leg up on the other ladies of the Upper East Side. Whitney Port also walked in front of cameras recently promoting her show, The City, in ravishing regal lace stockings. For those who love a mix of grunge and glamour your in luck as ripped stockings tore up runways and is considered a hot new style to try but got mixed reviews.

Anyone can pull off the new tight trend no matter what you may think. I have countless clients who love certain clothes but have the mantra "I could never wear that" embedded in their heads. I say try it on and open your mind to modern day fashion. Not every style is for everyone, it must be age appropriate and flattering but nothing should be feared. Being a style scaredy cat is similar to being afraid of a fly. Clothes can come off as fast as they are put on so take a chance and try some of the unique hosiery out there, just stay away from nude pantyhose please!

Style Seeker-Out & About in Atlanta

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 23:06:00 GMT

While I was on the hunt for a standout hotlanta look last week I found myself craving a classic capture. I took my chic chase to my neck of the woods, Buckhead, where I knew I would be able to pounce on stylish prey. I traveled not so tough terrain to one of my fave fashion locales, Atlanta's Theory store in Phipps Plaza.

The moment I spotted the store's assistant general manager, Christina, I knew to immediately pull the style trigger. I had her strike a perfect pose and got the shot I was aiming for within the first 5 minutes of entry. I was not surprised as Theory has been my go-to staple item brand for what seems to be eons. The brand's beautiful tailoring and timeless sophistication are just a couple of reasons why I am forever a Theory fan.

Christina is suited up in a sexy, androgynous head-to-toe Theory ensemble consisting of sumptuous silk and mouth-watering wool. She is sporting the black Audlin silk-chiffon long-sleeve blouse. The top's drop-dead detailing includes a covered button front placket, frayed seamed mandarin collar, and vertical pintucking bordering the center front. The Garrin wool vest in charcoal is superbly layered over the airy blouse and paired with its coordinating Bayani wool blend slim legged trousers. Christina topped off the look with a Lee Angel garnet and adorned sparrow necklace.

Since I am a regular at the Theory store, shopping for both my clients and myself, I will be attending their Four Nights of Holiday Cheer at Theory in Phipps Plaza beginning this Thursday, November 19th. I would love to help you pick out some show stopping pieces so stop by for some complimentary styling!

Watch out for KORS Clockwork

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:59:00 GMT

Is timing really everything? Michael Kors's timepieces are a true testament that those words of wisdom may not be ones to live by. His winsome watches have recently increased in popularity as fashionistas' priorities have shifted from satisfying splurges to reasonable receipts. Kors introduced his tasteful timepieces with the launch of his MICHAEL Michael Kors line in 2004. At that point in time, the economy was showing encouraging growth leading shoppers to continue making pricey pendulum purchases. Now wrists are being wrapped in Michael rather than Movado bringing his temperate tickers to finery's forefront.

There could not be a more perfect time to watch your wallet and grab one of Kors's high quality, classy clock steals. His watches range from $195-$250 and look as if they clock in between $500 and 1k. These functional yet highly fashionable pieces are offered in gorgeous gold, stunning silver ,and lux leather in bold colors and charming contrasts. I am mad for Michael's timeless, sophisticated wrist wear. He truly understands what women want in the moment and has the ability to meet our needs with items that also stand the test of time.

There are loads of women out there who love chunky jewelry. I too am obsessed with big baubles and watches are no exception; the bulkier the better. You can put a smile on your face because Kors offers oversized watches for women. You no longer need to waste your time searching for a man's watch to achieve the hefty hardware look you crave. If you don't give oversized watches the time of day there are a ton of small to mid-size options as well.

I always advise my clients to add a pop of color to every ensemble which I find breathes life into any look. Everyone needs a wide variety of colored accessories to make this happen. A colorful watch is such a fun, unique way to do so. On the other hand, this is not often seen as many people do not own multiple watches. I think we will be seeing a colorful clock change due to Michael's polyurethane watches in green, red, blue, pink, white, and black for $195.00. There are a gazillion ways to wear them whether it be nautical, sporty, cute or edgy you will find these colors will spruce you up.

Are you a team gold or team silver? Half of us favor gold as the other half opt for silver. No matter which metal you fancy, I bet you find yourself wishing you could still wear a watch when you are sporting the opposite element. Everyone should own both to be able to do just that. Your second choice can be from the Kors collection to keep your bank account balanced with more flexibility to your jewelry decision .

Even if we lived in a paradisiacal economic climate I would still recommend buying a Kors watch. Getting more bang for your buck never goes out of style.