P is for Purses

Your purse is part of your image and you need to think about what it says when it’s slouching on the floor and the contents are spilled out. A sturdy handbag sends the message that you are pulled together and so is your work.

When choosing a purse, consider:

1. Proportion. Petite women should avoid carrying large tote styles. If you need a large tote, stick a more reasonably sized purse (containing only the essentials) inside for most situations. Similarly, large women walking around with miniature purses just emphasize the difference between their size and the size of the purse.
2. Placement. If you’ve got larger hips, find a purse that hits closer to your chest area. Conversely, those with slim hips can wear a larger bag that hits around the hip.
3. Pack-ability. All the important things should be inside a closed purse. Stuffing things that almost fit doesn’t send a professional message.
4. Politeness. An oversize sturdy purse can hinder your professional image if it acts as a battering ram in a crowded area. If your purse is a bruiser, carry it in front of you when in a crowd.
5. Pleasing. While we don’t all have the same taste, your purse should be clean, the lining shouldn’t be shredded in pieces, the hardware should match (not safety pins), and the outside material shouldn’t be torn.
6. Personality. This is your professional life so think about statement pieces or power colors: true red, jade green, or even metallic (as long as it isn’t too sparkly). Yes, you can choose a pattern, as long as it isn’t too loud!
   

What does your purse say about you?

May you always look great!

Pat Roland, Certified Total Image Consultant
319-981-7289
MyEverydayImage.com
Pat@MyEverydayImage.com

Change is in the Air

Yes, it’s a new year and everyone is talking about change. Are you one of them? Do you have the courage to change? Which change are you most interested in? Check out the offer below!

1. I am a twenty-something and I realize that my college clothing doesn’t really transfer well to the office. I don’t even know where to begin to try to present a professional image. I don’t want to wear a stuffy suit! Should I wear clothes like the people on TV? I’m confused!
2. I have been working for quite a few years now and although I’ve been promoted in the past, I seem to be stalled. People who I trained are now taking management positions, and I am reporting to them! How do I “kick it up a notch” without going totally overboard? Can I still wear jeans and look professional?
3. I’m tired of looking like a teenager. I can’t wear the clothes all those celebrities are wearing because I don’t want to project a sexy look. And I definitely don’t want to look like my grandmother. Where are the clothes for regular people?
4. Last year I resolved to lose weight. The good news is, I did it! The bad news is now none of my clothes fit. I know I could have them tailored, but they no longer say who I am. I’m not trying to flaunt my new figure, but I do want to show that I have a shape! Where do I begin?
5. I spend good money on my clothes and I try to look professional, but something just isn’t right. I can’t put my finger on it. Why do some people always look so pulled together and I always feel like I’m trying to compete?

If you’ve got the courage, I’ve got the deal! Click on the coupon to see the discounts.

May you always look great!

Pat Roland, Certified Total Image Consultant
319-981-7289
MyEverydayImage.com
Pat@MyEverydayImage.com

Time Has Caught Up To Me

I’ll admit, these Stuart Weitzman Big Bows are the shoes I long to wear. But reality has recently kicked my ego to the curb. Some recent health problems have forced me to look at shoes that are focus a bit more on comfort. But I refuse to wear ugly shoes! So, surfing around the Zappo’s website, I found some options (all less than 1.5” heel) and may be destined for my shopping wish list:

1. Poco by Stuart Weitzman. The nude color extends the leg line and the lower heel puts less pressure in the toe area, allowing a pointy toe shoe to be more comfortable. The snake print gives them a bit of an edge. Note that the spike heel will be more difficult to wear than a wider heel.
2. Anne Klein Pipa. Everyone has flaws and one of mine is: I hate my toes! I like to wear sling back shoes whenever possible as they have a more delicate look than an enclosed shoe. The bow detail in the back keeps them looking feminine and the flat leather keeps them quite versatile.
3. Distinta from Ferragamo. The thicker heel on these is better if you are going to be on your feet for a while. Note that the toe of these shoes is not as pointy as the others. However, they still fall into the “somewhat” pointy range. The shiny finish and buckle dresses them up even more.
4. Nine West Maibu. If you’re going for a pop of color, these might do the trick. While the wedge is low and gives you more support, the red leather and the shiny buckle make it very clear that you are not a wallflower!
5. Vanelli Rickie. A great everyday shoe. The heel is slim, but wider than a spike. The embossed toe matching the heel is a very sophisticated look and also adds a dressy element to a shoe that might otherwise look too chunky. A good consideration if you have a wider foot.
6. Joan & David Bozwell. I really love the look of this shoe! Loafers are big for Spring 2012 and these will keep you looking pulled together and up to date. Great for casual dresses, dressy shorts, jean skirts, capri pants . . . the list goes on. So, I just ordered them!
7. Evaluna by Joan & David. The peep toe on these is a bit smaller so my toes don’t show as much. The cutouts give it a lighter look for the warmer months. These are metallic and you may recall that a metallic shoe can often be considered a neutral. Oh, I added these to my shopping cart, too!
8. Michael Kors Flex Demi Wedge. Animal print is a classic and will never go out of style. Because of the multi-colors, these shoes will be able to act as a neutral on almost any outfit. Remember, only one wild animal print at a time!
9. Aravon Tammi. I will admit, I’m not crazy about these shoes. Of this style, these are about the best I’ve seen. What’s right about them? The diamond pattern at the toe adds a bit of a feminine touch. If possible, find some that don’t have the strap across the ankle, as it shortens the leg. If you must wear these with a dress, go with black tights as dark hosiery will not accomplish the same look. While dark hosiery is better than nude hosiery or bare legs, to keep them looking the least chunky, black tights are your best bet. In the warmer weather, shoot for a neutral color and make sure the rest of your outfit can pull these off!

Are You Ready?

Welcome to 2012!

We are now into the next biggest shopping season of the year–Post Holiday Sales! As with any big sale, you need to be prepared in order to make sure you are spending your money wisely. Before picking up that great deal, consider the following:

1. COLOR: Is it your best colors? If you don’t know what your best colors are, this would be a good time for a color analysis. If you choose an item based on the low price, you may find that the color is either horrid on you or “just fine.” And “just fine” isn’t an investment shopping smart decision.
2. SHAPE: A great price does not mean that the shape is good for your particular body shape. Do you know your body shape? Do you know how to find items that create balance and draw attention to your assets? Loving the color and the style of an item doesn’t ensure that it will love you back.
3. DO YOU NEED IT: Before you go shopping, take an inventory of what is currently in your closet. I know you love black, but do you really need another black dress–even if it is only $20. I spoke with a woman recently who admitted to owning 28 black dresses! If you already own a few black dresses (cocktail dress, work dress and casual dress) think about another color when you are hitting the sales. Speaking of color, refer to #1 above.
4. RULE OF THREE: I’ve said this many times and it is VITAL before heading out to the sales. Make sure anything you purchase goes with at least three other items currently in your closet. When  closet shopping (#3 above), make note of items that aren’t meeting this rule. Think about what you could add to your current collection that would bring items into compliance. Make a list and check it twice before purchasing. Otherwise, that current item will continue to hide in your closet. Worse, a new purchase might be destined to the same fate!

May you always look great!

Pat Roland, Certified Total Image Consultant
319-981-7289
MyEverydayImage.com
Pat@MyEverydayImage.com

What Would You Wear?

WONDERING WOMAN: I saw this article and thought I’d share it and gather your input. –Penny S.

ANSWER: Well, this is an amusing look at a serious subject–what professional woman should or should not wear to work! I’m all about the humor, but there are a few areas I would disagree on: shorts are never professional in the workplace; shimmery eye shadow also does not belong in the workplace.

Although the article is rather lengthy. Take a few minutes to read the first page. I think you’ll find it amusing enough to finish the article! Then provide your own input . . .

May you always look great!

Pat Roland, Certified Total Image Consultant
319-981-7289
MyEverydayImage.com
Pat@MyEverydayImage.com

A Cozy Christmas

Sure you can open presents in your pj’s or robe, but if you’re a guest or have guests in attendance, you’ll want to opt for something a bit more sophisticated. (I wasn’t thinking of sweats, either!) Enter the oversize comfy sweater, offering a great alternative to a flannel nightgown. Remember, with the oversize look you need to wear closer-fitted pants to keep your clothing from overwhelming you. Since the oversize sweater falls below your rear, coverage will be ensured.

This inspiration comes from Shade, a newline line that focuses on a softer silhouette. If you can wear and are comfortable (breathing) in skinny jeans, then go for it. If you are looking for something with a bit more stretch, but still looks good, opt for jeggings or leggings. Under the sweater wear a simple knit t-shirt or a turtleneck.

For full length coverage, the longer fringe sweater is a great choice. If fringe isn’t your style and you want a romantic feel, opt for the ruffle cardigan. Both of these sweaters can take attention away from the stomach area if you wear a dark top with dark pants.

If you have a somewhat larger upper body, big sweaters are often difficult to wear. The diamond shape sweater can work well because the pattern is more vertical than horizontal. Instead of the soft lines of the ruffle cardigan and the fringe cardigan, the bottom of this sweater creates a strong horizontal line. Many larger chest women have slimmer hips and can handle this.

If you’re staying home for the day, slipper socks are a great finish to this look. If you’re headed out to gather with family or friends, remain casual with a low-heel boot.

May you always look great!

Pat Roland, Certified Total Image Consultant
319-981-7289
MyEverydayImage.com
Pat@MyEverydayImage.com

Patterned Tights

I was looking through a Jessica London catalog recently. Jessica London specializes in clothing for larger women. Their tag line is “We Love Your Curves.” But larger women need to understand that they have to follow the same rules as everyone else. If you want an area to look smaller, don’t put a pattern on it.

This is a great example of the difference between a small, overall pattern and a horizontal pattern. In the picture on the top, the leg on the left looks much thinner than the leg on the right. That is because there is an overall pattern and your eye doesn’t know where to stop. For the leg on the right, every time there is a horizontal line (I can’t count how many there are!) the eye stops and it creates the illusion of heaviness.

The picture bottom picture shows what happens when you put this into action–the Zebra Print tights grab all the attention. If you’ve been following me long, you know that the attention belongs on your face, not your tights! They did have her pose correctly, one leg half covering the other and in pumps with higher heels. But if this model had worn the same dress with the Leopard Print tights, her legs would have been less noticeable (and looked thinner) because of the small, overall print.

No matter what your size, the rules of body balancing don’t change. Most importantly, just because you see it in a magazine, doesn’t make it right!

May you always look great!

Pat Roland, Certified Total Image Consultant
319-981-7289
MyEverydayImage.com
Pat@MyEverydayImage.com

The Casual Holiday Party

Holiday parties are here and with all the running around and protecting yourself against Black Friday shoppers (can you believe some of the stories!), most people don’t think about what to wear until the last minute. Instead of purchasing items you will never wear again try “kicking it up a notch” using your regular wardrobe as a base to make it festive, affordable and wearable.

This inspiration came from PeopleStyleWatch December 2009 (see how some trends never go out of style). For a party with your friends, grab your favorite dark wash jeans and add a velvet blazer. Yes, black is classic, but a neutral grey is a bit of a surprise and just as versatile. Add a pop of color with your blouse and you are good to go. Ready to go a step further? Add a touch of bling with these ballet flats or a shiny broach (from your grandma’s jewelry box or consignment store for added savings).

Take slightly a different approach by flip-flopping the outfit: velvet jeans, your favorite crisp white blouse, a bright colorful necklace and some great boots. This dark patterned bag will go with either outfit!

May you always look great!

Pat Roland, Certified Total Image Consultant
319-981-7289
MyEverydayImage.com
Pat@MyEverydayImage.com

Accessible Accessories

Recently attended an event where Andy Paige, nationally known fashion consultant, spoke and provided many great tips. One that caught my attention was about accessories. Many woman say that they don’t wear them because they don’t have time to put them on. But Andy pointed out (and I totally agree) that it isn’t that we don’t have time to put them on, it is that we don’t have time to FIND them and put them on.

Since accessories are where you get to express your personality, keeping them organized and accessible is a sure way to “grab and go.” Some of the organizing tools I use for jewelry include:

• Thread spool hung on the wall (using Command Strips to keep the wall undamaged). I hang my necklaces over the rung and I can see everything I want quickly. (Available at WalMart or your closet fabric store.) For jewelry sets, I put them in little sheer white pouches and then hang the pouch on the rung. (Available at Michaels.)
• I keep my earrings in a little drawer on my dresser. The organizing tool I use is actually the tray from the frozen quiche I found at Sam’s Club. I love recycling items and finding new uses for them. There are 20 little circles and each circle hold one sets of earrings.

Keep your accessories modern, organized and accessible. May you always look great!

Pat Roland, CTIC
319-981-7289
MyEverydayImage.com
Pat@MyEverydayImage.com

Color, Color, Color

In 2010, Sandra Bullockwas voted Best Dressed at the Oscars. I think it was her lip color that made the entire outfit. Since then I have seen more and more celebrities with bright lips. Even People StyleWatch (Nov. 2011, pg. 184) jumped on the bandwagon, recommending L’Oreal’s Wild Plum as a color that looks good on everyone. The secret is that bright lip colors make you look younger, more vibrant and when wearing one with a pink undertone, your teeth look whiter. Who doesn’t want that!

Wild Plum has been my go-to color for two years, so I went color shopping the other day. What fun! My goal was to find colors that had enough pink in them to brighten up the face but also had some purple in them to deal with the darker shades worn in Autumn and Winter. Here is my research and my favorite’s from each company:

The Lancome counter had the most colors fitting my requirements (as shown by my scribbles), but my favs were Wannabe and All Done Up (image on left). If you are looking for a great holiday red, try L’Absolute Rouge or Red Chiffon (a little less intense).

If you are loyal to Clinique, my scribbles drew me to Cranberry Cream. I admit this color was a bit dark and dramatic, but it was sooooo beautiful! Fresh Watermelon is another great color.

Working with Kim Fehlhalfer, a distributor for Arbonne, our scribblings found luscious and moisturizing colors including Jam (shown on right) and Bordeaux.

I’m also a fan of Mary Kay’s Berry Kiss, which has just the right blend of pink and purple to wear with dark brown (which can often drain color from the face so a bright lip color is just the ticket). Another holiday color, Red says and does it all!

Drugstore makeup counters offer friendly prices, coupons and return policies (always check first). At Walgreens, if you don’t like the color, you can return it! Maybelline has some great colors, such as Madison Mauve and Yummy Plummy.

Let’s hear from those of you who have found some new bright lip colors this season.

May you always look great (like Jessica Alba wearing this bright color)!

Pat Roland, CTIC
319-981-7289
MyEverydayImage.com
Pat@MyEverydayImage.com