Know What to Wear this Holiday Season

Doing some research sounds like a no brainer, but it is actually one of the easiest ways to take the stress out of figuring out what to wear this holiday season.  During the holidays you already have enough to stress about.

Start with your holiday invitations.  Most invitations will specify a dress code.  If not, just ask the host what the “dress” for the party is.  If you are going to a work party with a mystery dress code, talk to your colleagues.  Find out what others are planning to wear, and what they might have worn last year at the party.  This should give you a good place to start planning your outfit.

Two of the most common dress codes found on holiday invitations this time of year are cocktail attire and festive attire. 

Cocktail Attire is fun because as a woman you have so many options.  Typically women wear short elegant dresses or separates and men wear a dark suit.  Women can also wear dress pants with an elegant/dressy top.  Another great option is your little black dress.  That is something many of us have already have in our closets.  The little black dress is very appropriate and can have many different looks just by changing your accessories.  Remember that accessories can be the key to dressing up or down a look.  Also, don’t be afraid to wear color.  There are a lot of beautiful vibrantly colored cocktail dresses in the stores for the holiday season.

Many of us already have the beginnings of a cocktail outfit in our closet.  The little black dress is a cocktail attire staple, but it doesn’t have to be black.  You may have a great dark dress in your closet that you can glam up with accessories.  Play up your bag, shoes and jewelry to make over a plain dress.

Most of us have some type of dressy or evening top in our closets.  Pair that with dress pants, a skirt, or even a suit for a more conservative office party. Your shoes can play a big role in dressing up your look.  Metallic shoes, or shoes with lace, satin, patent leather, and embellishment are a great way to dress up an outfit.

Also don’t forget about your bag.  Leave your day bag at home and opt for a clutch or evening bag.  Bags are a great way to play with color, and can do wonders to tie your outfit together.  Remember that your bag doesn’t have to match your shoes.  That is an old outdated rule.

Festive Attire is another common dress code found on invitations this time of year.  Festive attire is not as dressy as cocktail attire but more dressy than casual attire.  Festive attire is meant to evoke a fun, flirty, party atmosphere.  Think metallics, beading, ruffles, bows, velvet, holiday colors, etc.  This is a great time to have a little fun with your wardrobe and the party will probably be pretty fun too.

For more help deciphering what to wear to all of your holiday parties contact the Charleston Style Concierge.

It’s that time again. The holidays. The time of year that’s packed with parties, concerts, shopping, dinners, parades, and the list goes on. With so much on your plate, the last thing you should have to worry about is what to wear and what not to wear.
Are you sick of running out to the nearest mall at the last minute to find an outfit you’ll wear only once? Hoping people won’t remember you wore the same dress to the last party? Worried you won’t be wearing the appropriate attire?
Have fun this holiday season instead of worrying about your style.  
On Wednesday, December 3, 2008, at 8 pm ET, my friend Michelle Salater will host a free, hour-long call with me, Lee Heyward, personal stylist and owner of Charleston Style Concierge, to discuss tips on how to survive the holidays in style.
Don’t miss this call. Click here now to reserve your spot for the F*R*E*E call, Wednesday, December 3, at 8pm Eastern / 5pm Pacific.

On this call, you’ll discover . . .

• What to wear and what not to wear to a holiday party
• How to create a holiday wardrobe from what you already own
• Party etiquette essentials for making a good impression 

Topic: How to Survive the Holidays with Style  

Date: Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Time: 8 pm Eastern / 5 pm Pacific

Registration: www.marketingonlinebootcamp.com/holidaycall.html

Listen Now:  http://marketingonlinebootcamp.com/audio/holidaystylecall12308.mp3

If you can’t join us for the live call December 3rd, the call will be recorded, but you must register to receive the recording.  If you are new to telecalls, it is easy.  All you have to do is sign up.  You will receive an email with the phone number.  Call the number and join us for a fun hour of style tips sure to get you through the holidays in style.

 
 

If you want to stress less over what you’re wearing this holiday season, make it a point to be on this call. Don’t miss this call. Click here now to reserve your spot.
To learn more about the Charleston Style Concierge and our styling services visit us on the web at www.charlestonstyleconcierge.com.  Sign up for our newsletter for great style tips and information on future style telecalls.

Take the stress out of this party season and brush up on your party etiquette.  Discover what to bring, when to arrive, and other great etiquette tips from our friends at Southern Protocol, an etiquette company that believes you should always be gracious, stylish, and charming.

Is arriving fashionably late really fashionable? 

There is no such thing as fashionably late.  Guests are expected to arrive no later than 5-10 minutes after the arrival time listed on the invitation.  In most cases 15 minutes is acceptable.  If you are going to be any later than 15 minutes, you should call the host/hostess to let them know.  Don’t expect the party/dinner to wait on you. NEVER show up to a party early unless asked to do so by the host/hostess.

Should I always bring a hostess gift?

There is no real “rule” on when to or when not to take a hostess gift.  Our general thinking is that if the party/dinner is hosted by a family with whom you frequently visit no gift is required.  If it is a first time visit a small gift would be appropriate.  Consider what you know about the host/hostess when deciding on a gift.  It would be considered inappropriate to give someone who does not drink alcohol a bottle of wine, etc.  If you are completely unsure of whether or not to take a gift – you could attend the party empty handed and get a feel from the other guests actions.  If the majority of guests did bring a gift, a nice gesture would be to send flowers with a nice note of appreciation the day following the party.

How long should you stay at a party? 

The typical “rule of thumb” is that it is respectful to stay for about an hour after dinner.  The best way to know is to take clues from the people at the party/dinner.  When the other guests begin to leave, you should follow suit unless asked to do otherwise by the host/hostess.  If everyone is still at the party and the host/hostess start to drop clues about how late it is or how early their day tomorrow is going to be, don’t be afraid to be the first to go.  Hopefully the other guests will follow.

How do I know if I can bring a guest? 

You can only bring a guest if you have been told directly, either on the invitation or in person by the host/hostess that it is ok.  You need to let the host/hostess know if you are bringing a guest prior to the party.  NEVER ask the host/hostess if you can bring a guest.  This “rule” is also true with children.  If the children’s names are not on the invitation or have not been specifically invited by the host/hostess themselves – they are not invited.

Discover more etiquette tips and how to stress less about what to wear during this holiday party season, by joining my free teleclass on December 3, 2008.  My friend Michelle Salater, owner of Michelle Salater Writing & Editorial, LLC, will host a free, hour-long call with me to discuss tips on how to survive the holidays in style. The holidays are packed with parties, concerts, shopping, dinners, parades and the list goes on.  With so much on your plate, the last thing you should have to worry about is what to wear.  Sign up now!

Imagine waking each morning, walking to your closet, and choosing an outfit that makes you feel great. You put it on, accessorize, and in minutes, you are ready to walk out the door. Imagine you’re running late and have a dinner party to attend in one hour. You walk to your closet, stand in front of it, and quickly choose an outfit. Slip on the dress, slide on your stilettos, and you look like a million bucks. 

With a versatile wardrobe, getting dressed can really be this easy.

For those of you who think this is impossible without having a lot of money, let me reassure you, that is not the case.

In fact, creating a versatile wardrobe saves you money, time, and energy. When you have a versatile wardrobe that’s created to fit your lifestyle needs, you immediately eliminate all the headaches of trying to find something to wear.  

Having a clear idea of what you have and what you need will prevent you from spending money on items that you’ll never wear or wear only once. 

Christian Dior had it right when he said, “It’s not money that makes you well dressed, it’s understanding.”

The key is understanding how to mix and match pieces while creating your own style that fits your lifestyle.  Creating a versatile wardrobe takes time and energy. But it’s not as hard as you might think.

In fact,  you probably already have a good start with items you already own. Investing time and thought into creating a wardrobe that serves your lifestyle needs will produce results. And fast.

Feeling fabulous shouldn’t be a chore. When you create a versatile wardrobe, you’re investing in yourself, in who you want to be in this world, and how you want people to perceive you. So, have some fun with your clothes and feel great every time you walk out the door.

This is an excerpt from my latest style guide, 5 Steps to a Stress-Free and Versatile Wardrobe.  To read more from this great guide sign up for our mailing list at www.charlestonstyleconcierge.com and download 5 Steps to a Stress-Free and Versatile Wardrobe for F*R*E*E.

Being realistic about your lifestyle is one of the most important elements when creating a versatile wardrobe. Many of us buy clothing that we love, but that won’t work for our lifestyle. The result: gorgeous pieces that spend more time hanging in the closet than being worn and enjoyed. For instance, if you spend most of your time each week at a jean-free workplace, do you really need 50 pairs of jeans? No.

This is why it’s important to take inventory of your lifestyle needs.

Examining your lifestyle simply requires you to pay attention.

Yes, all you need to do is pay attention. Then, take inventory of your style needs with your lifestyle needs in mind.

I suggest keeping a notepad and pen near your closet or the area where you regularly dress. When you are getting dressed, keep the following questions in mind, and write down what you discover.

·        On a typical day, where are you going and what are you doing? And what percentage of time is spent doing those things? Do you work a 60-hour-week corporate job? Do you divide your time between a part-time job and attending your children’s activities and games?   

·        Where are you going when you have problems with your wardrobe and become frustrated if you have nothing to wear? Is it when you’re getting ready for work, for a dinner party, for lunch with friends, to your son’s soccer game?

·        When you’re getting dressed, where do you feel the most challenged? What are you lacking? Do you have plenty of shoes for the office, but nothing to wear for a night on the town? Are you lacking blouses and shirts to make more than one outfit with your dress slacks?

Writing down your answers will show you your wardrobe needs and challenges. This understanding is crucial when building a versatile wardrobe.

This is an excerpt from my latest style guide, 5 Steps to a Stress-Free and Versatile Wardrobe.  To read more from this great guide sign up for our mailing list and download 5 Steps to a Stress-Free and Versatile Wardrobe for F*R*E*E.

I’m excited to announce that one of my favorite designers, Spooney, is hosting an exclusive trunk sale to benefit the documentary film and cancer initiative, Awaken the Dragon.  The trunk sale will take place November 5th and 6th from 11am -4pm at 918 Lansing Dr., Suite F, Mt. Pleasant, SC. 

Come experience the irresistible moisture wicking fabric that spoons you in comfort and style.  The trunk sale will feature special savings on overstocks, samples, and discontinued items.   

Learn more about Spooney

For active women who fantasize about wearing their PJs all day, Spooney®, may just make their dreams come true. An innovative, “wear ever” tagless collection, combines the benefits of high-performance active wear with the comfort of pajamas. A “Spooney Girl” can snuggle, go out for a latte, a night on the town or catch a plane all in the same attire.

Janice Fetter, founder of the company, was introduced to high- performance fabrics on a bike tour and the idea for Spooney surfaced. Combining the best qualities of both, she set out to design a garment made from easy-care, moisture-management fabric that still maintained a soft, natural, “cozy” feel. The light-as-air fabric “spoons” the body, putting the wearer in a “pajama state of mind” yet ever ready for the high performance, high-active lifestyle so typical of today’s women.

For more information about this event please contact Spooney or the Charleston Style Concierge.

Katherine McDonald, the owner and designer of local fashion label LulaKate, decided to premiere her fall collection in a recession-conscious style.  She will be hosting a trunk show and donating 25% of the revenue to Dress For Success of Charleston.  DFS is an organization that provides disadvantaged women with the wardrobe and skills needed to acquire a job.  The event is happening Wednesday, October 29, from 5:00-8:00pm in LulaKate’s flagship boutique at 324 King Street.

McDonald hopes the evening will live up to the label’s “Fabulous, Fun and Flirty” motto.  In addition to the exclusive first look at LulaKate’s latest collection, the event will feature style tips from Lee Heyward of Charleston Style Concierge, champagne, and dessert. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet some of the inspiring women who have changed their lives with the help of DFS.  The glamorous evening is designed to encourage longtime customers and newcomers alike to grab a friend and head to LulaKate for a new wardrobe and a great cause. 

I am often asked how much money is needed to buy a new wardrobe.  I believe that with a little effort you can look great on any budget.  All you need are the right tips and tricks.

1.   Make the most of what you already have.  Before you head to the mall, start by shopping in your closet.  Take a mental inventory of what you own.  Ask yourself how you can wear what you have more?  Are you breaking up your suit to wear as three different outfits?  Could the dress you bought for a special event look more casual with a simple change of accessories?  Is your closet neat and organized so you know exactly what you have and where it is?  The simple act of being more aware of what you have will help you discover the infinite possibilities your closet holds.

2.   Step out of your shopping box.  With so many retailers dedicated to our shopping pleasure, you can find anything you need at any price point.  Step outside of your usual shopping habits and hit new and different stores.  Try discount stores like TJMaxx or Marshalls.  With a little patience you can find great designer pieces for a lot less.

3.   Change up your accessories.  Accessories can completely change the look of an outfit.  Accessories are a fun way to add color, participate in a trend, or add versatility to your wardrobe.  Try on your favorite outfit and then change a layer, your shoes, or jewelry for a completely different look.

4.   Host a clothing swap party.  Swap clothing with your friends.  A clothing swap is a great way to get new wardrobe pieces and helps you create more room in your own closet.  Not to mention a clothing swap is a great excuse for a party and is an environmentally friendly activity!

5.  What’s old can once again be new.  With the help of a great tailor you can turn your old clothing into something fabulous and new.  Shorten a long frumpy skirt into a knee length wardrobe staple.  Get a great shirt just by taking in the seams for a better fit.  Modernize an old jacket just by adding belt loops and shortening the length.  A great tailor can help you turn your favorite pieces into one of a kind looks.

For more help shopping in your closet contact the Charleston Style Concierge.

This past weekend, I flew to Kentucky for a dear friend’s wedding.  I enjoy traveling and especially like the time it affords me to sit and people watch.  Airports offer some of the best and most diverse people watching.  I saw some interesting style choices and spent some time wondering how some of my fellow passengers would fair running for their gate in their ridiculously high heels.  In my experience I have found that traveling guarantees a few things.  You need some sort of shoe that you can walk in, sometimes run in, and can be removed easily at security, layered clothing that combats the often frigid air temperatures of the plane, and a great outfit that provides comfort and style throughout your journey.  There are three essential wardrobe pieces that can comfortably get you to your destination in style.

Trench Coat  A great structured jacket, like a trench coat will always give you a put together look.  It looks great over anything, covers wrinkles or stains you may have acquired along the way, and can act as a pillow, a blanket, or a layer of warmth.  No matter the climate you live in or plan to visit, there is a trench coat that can be a versatile addition to your wardrobe.

Pashmina/Wrap  Pashminas come in a million colors and fabrics.  They are handy for travel because they can serve as a blanket or a pillow during travel and function as a stylish wrap on a chilly night during your vacation.  You can also use them to wrap breakable souvenirs on your return trip.

Stylish & Comfortable Shoes  Give your feet a break and choose shoes that provide comfort and style for your travel.  Your shoes should be able to be removed and put back on easily at security and shouldn’t hinder an emergency sprint to your gate. 

For more travel tips or help with packing the right wardrobe on your next journey contact the Charleston Style Concierge.

There’s nothing better than a successful day of shopping.  You arrive home proud of your hard work and add your new items to your sea of clothes.  You are confident that the next time you get dressed you will know exactly what to wear.  Clothing with tags still on them is a common problem for many of my clients who struggle with the feeling of having nothing to wear.  After you finish your shopping there are a few things you can do to ensure the things you buy will help you build a versatile wardrobe.

My first tip is to stop feeling guilty about the clothes you have bought and never worn.  The guilt does nothing but eat away at you and at the end of the day, or the beginning as the case may be, won’t help you get dressed any faster.   Put aside your guilt and pull out the clothing in your closet still plagued with tags.  Ask yourself why you haven’t worn them?  Maybe you forgot you had them or maybe they never really fit.   Make a mental note and then find out which items can be returned.  Those that can’t can be sold at consignment stores or ebay, donated to charity, or used in a fun clothing swap with your friends.  Find them a new home and move on.

Next discover how to make sure the purchases you make will help you build a versatile wardrobe with these simple tips.

When you come home from shopping, take a few minutes to try on your purchases again.  Often we need the reality of our own mirror or the reminder of our lifestyle to help us determine how useful an item of clothing will be. 

Next, take the new items into your closet and pair them with the pieces you imagined making outfits with while in the store.  Is the outfit how you pictured?  Will it suit the purpose you intended?

Consider grouping new items together in your closet.  One of the most common challenges for shopaholics is remembering what they have.  Often clothes get stuck in the closet and we forget we even own them.  Review your “new clothing” section every few weeks to make sure you have actually worn the things you bought.

For more tips on creating a versatile wardrobe contact Charleston Style Concierge.