The Style Skinny

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...

 

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:

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 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).

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).

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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 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!

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! 

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!

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.