Posts filed under 'Q&A'
Q: I’m going to Wimbledon at the end of June and was looking for advice on what to wear.
by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant
A: London in June is rather cool and somewhat rainy - expect temperatures in the 50s and 60s while you’re at Wimbledon. You’ll want to be prepared for rain or shine - so plan your wardrobe accordingly. Here’s a couple of outfit options that will work with London’s finnicky weather:
Lightweight Sweater + Tee + Long Pants
Pictured: Cashmere Three Quarter Sleeve Cardigan | $158 at J Crew, Soft Tee Ruffle Top | $39.50 at J Crew, and Gray Wide Leg Jeans | $49.99 (sale) at Gap.
If the weather is on the cooler side, we’d suggest wearing stylish but comfortable pants with a cute tee. Toss on a lightweight sweater if it gets breezy. Keep a light but waterproof jacket around, in case of rain.
Knee Length Dress + Jacket
Pictured: Theory Raineria Dress | $285 at Nordstrom, Linen Collarless Jacket | $130 at Banana Republic, Leather Tuck Lock Satchel | $100.03 at ASOS.
You can hope to wear shorts or skirts on warmer days, so keep a dress and light jacket on hand. For Wimbledon, we’re loving the look of a tailored shirtdress with a cropped jacket. Try this Theory shirtdress paired with a short navy jacket for a clean, classic look.
As for footwear, make sure to wear comfortable shoes since you may have some walking to do to view all of the matches. Flats or low heels will serve you well.
Last thoughts? Apply sunscreen (rain or shine), and if you’re sensitive to sun, bring a hat for sunny days. We’d also suggest bringing an umbrella in the somewhat likely case of rain.
What would you wear to London in June? Share your style tips with us in the comments!
May 29th, 2009
Q: During the summer, I basically feel like I’ve got two choices for footwear with shorts: Teva brand flip flops or Chaco brand sandals. I’d like to get something in more of a ’shoe’ that I can wear without socks. What are some stylish "boat-shoes" or alternatives to boat-shoes?
A: You’re in luck - there are a number of warm weather shoe options open to you that aren’t sandals. If you want to step out of the house without socks, we’d recommend four types of shoes: boat shoes, tennis shoes, canvas shoes, and driving moccasins.
The Boat Shoe
Broken In Sperry Top Siders | $98 at J Crew
Sperry makes the classic boat shoe, and their collaboration with J Crew makes these traditional shoes better than ever. Between the distinctive custom dark wood color, the off white soles, and the cotton chambray lining, you won’t find a more unique boat shoe for under $100.
The Tennis Shoe
Springcourt Low Cut Canvas Shoes | $88 at Steven Alan
Springcourt shoes are the original French tennis shoe , but they’re anything but traditional in terms of features. We’re loving the convenient four hole ventilation channels - so your feet can breathe easy.
The Canvas Shoe
Zuriick Jakob Mid Top Canvas Shoes | $98 at Oak
These sleek canvas shoes remind us that casual footwear can be as sophisticated as its more formal cousins–and tons more fun. Love, love, love the ever-so-subtle striping and the bright purple shoe soles. Editor’s Note: Sizing is limited at Oak, since these shoes are selling fast. But they were fantastic enough that we wanted to feature them anyways.
The Driving Moccasin
Millbrook Leather Driving Mocs | $128 at J Crew
We’re digging the rich Italian leather on this driving moccasin. You’ll also enjoy the rubber sole, which gives you extra traction while driving - or just walking around.
Guys, what are your favorite summer shoe picks? Share them with us in the comments!
May 27th, 2009
Q: A friend is graduating from law school in Los Angeles in a few weeks, and I will be spending the weekend there as well. What would you recommend to wear to the graduation ceremony, and for the rest of the weekend?
by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant
A: Graduation from Law School is a big accomplishment–so congratulations to your friend! In LA, the weather will likely be hot (and depending on the size of the graduating class, the ceremony could be long). For the ceremony itself, we’d recommend a simple dress + cardigan outfit, though you may want to switch out the floral dress for one in an edgier pattern for Los Angeles. For the rest of your weekend in Los Angeles, here’s what you’re going to want to bring:
Tops: A cute top or two that can be dressed up or down will do the trick. A light sweater will keep you cozy at night.
Bottoms: Jeans are a must - try grey jeans or an unusual wash for something a bit different. You may also want to bring a pair of shorts or a skirt to keep you cool if the weather gets too warm.
Dresses: Bring the dress you’re wearing to the graduation ceremony. If you’re really into dresses, you may also want to bring a California casual sundress (or a long maxi dress) to round out your dress wardrobe.
Outerwear: A single lightweight jacket will suffice for the balmy Los Angeles weather.
Accessories: A pair of kitten heels for the ceremony, and either a cute pair of sandals or a pair of casual shoes will keep you comfortable through the weekend. Add a pair of oversized sunglasses (and perhaps a hat), and you’ll be good to go.
Have a great tip about what to wear in Los Angeles? Share it with us in the comments!
May 15th, 2009
Q: Could you suggest some summer casual weekend options for [women over 40]? Things that could be worn as part of a graduation weekend–out to a casual dinner, to a barbecue, out and about.
A: It’s possible to embody an air of sophistication, even in casual clothing. You can do weekend wear in style with bright colors, tailored silhouettes, and bold prints. How do you put them together? Try these three classic weekend wear outfit combinations:
Chambray Button Down Shirt + White Boot Cut Jeans
Selvedge Chambray Shirt | $88 at J Crew
New Low-Rise Boot Cut White Jeans | $59.50 at Gap
Try a twist on the classic button-down and jeans combo. Look for a shirt in a tailored cut and textured fabric. As for the jeans, instead of a traditional blue, try them in white. Or if you’re prone to stains, a nice light grey.
Silk Blouse + Printed Skirt
Silk Georgette Pleated Top | $88 at J Crew
Pleated Floral Skirt | $68 at Banana Republic
For a slightly dressier option, try a sleeveless blouse in a luxurious fabric and pair it with a skirt in a sophisticated pattern.
Brightly Colored Blouse + Wide Leg Trouser Pants
Piped Blouse | $48 at Gap
Navy Wide Leg Jeans | $59.50 at Gap
Balance out a pair of wide leg pants with a short sleeved blouse. You can keep the pairing visually interesting with bright colors and a small-over-big silhouette. If the weather is very warm, feel free to switch out the pants with a pair of knee-length shorts or cropped pants.
Have a great tip about weekend wear for those over 40? Share it with us in the comments!
May 14th, 2009
Q: Do you have [graduation] dress suggestions for women 45+ who are in decent shape? I’ve looked in vain for attractive and vibrant floral pattern dresses that cover a bit more. Plenty of sheaths in black and natural linen, but these seem rather plain for the occasion.
A: Last week, we put together a graduation outfit suitable for a woman in her 20s or 30s. Today, we rounded up a series of dresses that can work for women in their 40s and beyond. We have vibrant patterns, bright colors, and cuts that cover a bit more than the strapless sheath that we featured last week. Here’s our seven favorite picks for graduation dresses:
Ali Ro Print Silk Dress | $62.90 (sale) at Nordstrom
Silk Cotton Floral Dress | $98 at Banana Republic
Cotton Slub Silk Lattice Dress | $99.99 (sale) at J Crew
Suzi Chin Maggy Boutique Print Sateen Sheath Dress | $118 at Nordstrom
Floral Maxi Dress | $130 at Martin + Osa
Patra Tiered Chiffon Dress | $178 at Nordstrom
Trina Turk Tortoise Dress | $288 at Nordstrom
What would you wear to graduation? Share your style with us in the comments!
May 12th, 2009
Q: I’m going on holiday to Nice in June and wanted some advice on what to wear.
A: June is a wonderful time to visit Nice. In June, the weather is mild (think temperatures in the 60s and 70s), and while the tourist season is definitely underway, it’s not yet at its peak. You’ll be able to enjoy everything from museums to gourmet restaurants - and catch some time in the sun at the beach. Here’s what to pack for a trip to Nice, France:
Outerwear: A single light jacket for cool evenings will be enough. Try a lightweight trench for versatility and style.
Tops: Pack a layering sweater, a few comfy tees, and a variety of tops with sophisticated cuts and patterns.
Bottoms: Bring a couple of pairs of long pants to pair with your tops. A skirt or a pair of shorts is optional but welcomed.
Dresses: A nice sundress for daytime and a cocktail dress for evening will suffice.
Shoes: A good pair of comfortable walking shoes, a pair of sandals, and flip flops for the beach will do the trick.
Last thoughts? You may also want to pack a scarf or two to give your outfits a bit of an extra visual punch. And don’t forget your bathing suit and sunscreen!
Have a great tip about what to wear to Nice, France? Share your style with us in the comments!
May 8th, 2009
Q: White jeans for men seems to be kind of on-trend right now, and I’m just wondering how you suggest wearing them.
A: You’re completely right - white jeans is a fresh look for men, and while white jeans are tough to keep clean, the effort can pay off in spades. Here’s three simple ways to work white jeans into your wardrobe:
Option 1: White Jeans + Pullover Sweater
Go simple by pairing your white jeans with a simple pullover sweater. You can go with deep, vibrant colors like the royal blue shown - or try lighter colors like heather grey or baby blue for a quietly sophisticated look.
Option 2: White Jeans + Bold Polo Shirt
For casual days, you can look instantly pulled together in a striped polo shirt and a crisp white pair of jeans. To polish off the look (but at the same time keeping it casual), add a belt and a pair of tailored sneakers.
Option 3: White Jeans + Collared Shirt + Cardigan Sweater
For effortless elegance, pair your white denim with a well fitted collared button-down shirt - and then layer on a textured sweater. We’re digging the look of a textured shawl collared cardigan against the woven button-down shirt - plus the interplay of the grey, the pinkish red and white stripes, and the white jeans. Finish off the look with a belt and a pair of driving mocs.
Last thoughts? Do be meticulous about keeping your white jeans spotless. Nothing ruins the white jeans look faster than a smudge or a spot.
Have a great tip about how to wear white jeans? Share it with us in the comments!
April 22nd, 2009
Q: I am going to Germany at the end of May and would like to know what I should wear. I’m sure I’ll do a lot of walking. I want to keep my personal style, but want to be comfortable without looking like a tourist.
Pictured: Berlin Street Fashion, courtesy of Still in Berlin.
by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant
A: The weather may still be cool (and perhaps rainy) in Germany at the end of May, so be prepared for daytime temperatures from the 50s up into the 70s. Layering will be your friend; you’ll be able to take off layers as each day warms up to regulate your temperature throughout the day.
Outerwear: Bring a tailored trench and a nice lightweight jacket to keep you warm (and dry).
Tops: An assortment of long and short sleeve knit tops will travel well. Choose styles that have a "twist" to them - German style appreciates the small details that make an outfit special. Also pack a couple of layering sweaters in different styles and weights.
Bottoms: Pack trouser pants, jeans and walking shorts that are at least knee-length. Note that jeans in Germany can be very expensive - I’ve seen Levi’s priced at over $100. To be safe, bring your own from home. You may also want to bring a skirt to round out your bottoms wardrobe.
Dresses: Pack a dress or two; you’ll need to dress up for any evenings of fine dining.
Accessories: Since it may rain, don’t forget an umbrella or rain slicker - and bring extra pairs of comfy walking shoes (preferably rainproof ones). A pair of sunglasses and a chic scarf will round out your accessories wardrobe.
Last thoughts? So as to fit in, you may want to pack more neutrals. In my experience, German style features more earth tones and black than does American style. But then again, you do see bright colors as well - so it’s not a hard and fast rule.
Have a great tip about what to wear in Germany? Share it with us in the comments!
April 21st, 2009
Q: I’m going to New York in April. Could you tell me what I can wear if I’m going to go on a tour in the city? I’d like something comfortable but, at the same time, fashionable!
by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant
A: New York in April is breezy and rainy - so make sure to pack accordingly. Think temperatures ranging from lows in the 40s to highs in the 60s. Here’s what you need to bring for your tour of New York city:
Outerwear: Pack a waterproof trenchcoat with character to add a dash of style–and protect you from the rain. Bonus style points for a brightly colored trench. Also bring a good basic medium weight jacket for the days that the weather is clear.
Tops: A few layerable tops and a couple of lightweight sweaters will form the core of your sightseeing wardrobe. Also pack a few brightly colored tees for your base layer.
Bottoms: A couple of pairs of long pants and a pair of well-fitted jeans should do the trick.
Dresses: Bring a classic dress for fancy lunches or dinners, or for when you catch a play or Broadway show (or head out to a nice club).
Shoes: Closed toe flat shoes that are suitable for walking are going to be key. Styles like comfy ballet flats, sport sneakers, or flat boots will be your friend. You may also want to bring a pair of heels for any dressy occasions.
Accessories: A roomy handbag to hold extra layers of clothes (and any small purchases you make), a beautiful layering scarf, and an umbrella are going to be your three key accessories.
Last words? New York is a heaven for foodies - if you’re looking for some great eats, try: the hot chocolate (and mac and cheese) at City Bakery, the smoked salmon pressed rice sandwiches at Takashimaya, the bar steak at Pastis, the gelato at Grom, the chocolate at Maison du Chocolat and Kee’s, and a beautiful three course lunch at Jean Georges.
Have a great tip about what to wear in New York? Share it with us in the comments!
April 14th, 2009
Q: I will be going to Orlando, FL for a week off with my family in April and need some ideas for theme park chic - comfortable, casual, but NOT sloppy. Any ideas?
A: Orlando in April is pretty warm - think temperatures that range from the 60s at night to the low 80s during the day. Light clothing is essential, and as you said, you’ll want pieces that are comfortable and casual to wear to the theme park. Still, you’ll want to look put together, so mix things up with sophisticated patterns (such as the flowers on the sweater and the stripes on the tank) and coordinated colors (notice how the blue and white base makes the yellow in the sweater visually pop). Here’s what you need to pack for your trip to Orlando:
Tops: Think sleeveless and short sleeved tops in breathable fabrics.
Sweaters: Pack one or two layering sweaters that you can put on in any air conditioned areas.
Bottoms: Shorts are going to be your best bet, but you can also try cropped pants or long, lightweight pants in cotton or linen.
Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, so flat shoes are going to be your friend. Sneakers will get you through the day, but you may want a pair of casual flats for evenings.
Accessories: Bring a zippered bag to carry your essentials and a good hat to shield yourself from the sun.
Last words? As the days are typically sunny, you’ll want to remember to pack sunscreen.
Have a great tip about what to wear to a theme park? Share your style with us in the comments!
April 10th, 2009
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