Style by Julie Judd, Stylewise

If you’re like most women about this time of year, you’re seeing new fashions at stores and starting to think about what’s put away under the bed and in attics in anticipation for warm weather. But before you think you’re ready to shop, think about how you might shop smarter.

In my work as a stylist (or wardrobe/closet/clothes consultant), I’ve learned most women have no idea what’s in their closets or what they need for the upcoming season. I’ve also learned that I can really help. Here’s how:

Save Time

The most important way to save time is to shop with a list. I call it “shop with a purpose” because you’re going to go into stores knowing what to zero in on… clothes that complete your wardrobe.

When I do a “closet takeover” we identify what pieces would pull your wardrobe together and offer many outfit options. These go on the list. Other things that go on the list are special event needs like a dress for a wedding or party and pieces you identified the PREVIOUS season that you needed.

Shopping with a purpose lets you zoom in and out of stores, trying on clothes you know you need.

Style That Works

Don’t we all want to enhance or camouflage our bodies with clothes so we look our very best? But how do we know what works? There are many good books that give us suggestions. But books don’t give feedback – and I do. From your angle, it’s hard to know what to play up and play down. So I do that for you. Then give honest, realistic recommendations on what to look for to flatter.

I’ll steer you to – and from – the trends that work for you and the rest of your wardrobe. Instead of you buying a lot of unflattering but hip items, I might suggest a few contemporary accessories that update your look less aggressively.

Age Appropriate

Once we’ve discovered what’s right for your body type, we’ll talk about your lifestyle. As we age, our body types change (as if we haven’t noticed!) but we often don’t change what we buy. Jeans are still important, but no longer skinny. V-necks may flatter more than our old favorite turtlenecks. And I’ll be totally honest about styles that make you look dowdy or older!

Store Resources

Armed with your shopping list, I’ll take you to the stores where clothes are pulled and ready for you in the fitting room. Through a network of great salespeople , found through years of trial and error, I usually know where to find the best matches to the items on your list. And I know reliable tailors, as well.

Save Money

Of al the times I’ve been called to a client’s closet, I have never had to recommend a whole new wardrobe. We’ll shop in your closet first to make many outfits that look great on you and work for your lifestyle. We’ll identify a list of the things that can extend your wardrobe – items that really work with what you have – so you needn’t buy a lot. Plus when you have your shopping list, you’re not as tempted to visit sale racks and buy “mistakes” that will seldom be worn.

“What would Julie say?” becomes your mantra before buying. And, consequently you walk away from items that don’t work hard in your wardrobe. Or buy with confidence, knowing your purchase is a smart buy. The investment in stylist service can be one of the best purchases you can make.

It’s my belief that all woman can look their best. It’s my passion to help you achieve your best this spring, while making it so easy you’ll wonder why you waited so long.

I’d love to hear what you’re thinking about wearing for Spring. And, if you want help creating your list or shopping, give me a call at 708-829-8245.

Tags: closet makeover, shopping list, Spring clothes

This entry was posted on Monday, March 15th, 2010 at 10:41 pm and is filed under blog items, image, style. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

Style by Julie Judd, Stylewise

Always wanted a Wardrobe Makeover but not ready to say “good-bye” to the old and commit to the new? Try some of these baby steps that update your look without breaking the bank.

1. Update your tailored, fitted shirts by wearing a tank top underneath and open the top and bottom buttons. This can make you look taller and thinner – and hipper.
2. Take a boxy blazer to a tailor and have it fitted. At about $25-35, it’s a small price to keep a favorite jacket in your wardrobe.
3. Add a cashmere wrap or pashmina to coats or v-neck sweaters. You’ll add color while keeping warm in drafty rooms or out in the cold.
4. Buy a boot cut, dark wash, midrise jean. MUCH more flattering and can go dressy or casual. Great fitting jeans are a good investment that pays off year-round. Buy two pair and have them hemmed for flats and heels.
5. Shorten a straight or A-line skirt to knee length – above, middle or just below, depending on your height. The taller you are, the longer the skirt. Wear with a tall boot or pump and tights. Most women look better in skirts than pants. Ask any man!!!
6. Get fitted for a new bra. There are many new styles that are “age defying” and keep “the girls” up where they belong – midway between your shoulders and your elbows.
7. Add a belt outside your top, sweater or blazer. Wear a skinny belt if you don’t have much space between your bust and waist (short-waisted). Wear a thick belt if you have space there (long-waisted). No matter what size you are, this updates your look for a small price and brings attention to your waist. If you have a thicker waist, wear the belt slung a little lower on your hips.
8. Get rid of the sweats and Old Navy fleece. Instead chill or run errands in Activewear from your favorite running brands like Nike, Reebok, Puma or Addidas. Choose a running pant and matching jacket, then feel free to wear together or mix and match with your favorite jeans, hoodie and t-shirt.
9. Replace a turtleneck with a v-neck sweater. Turtles can make you look heavy by visually broadening your shoulders and “stealing” your neck. And make you look older and unapproachable. The next time you reach for a turtleneck, compare it with a v-neck and see the difference for yourself. For warmth add a scarf.
10. Replace your ankle length winter coat for a three-quarter fitted coat. Great sales are on now! And this look will continue. It’s a much neater look than a long coat you’ve dragged through snow and salt.

When you’re ready for the Wardrobe Makeover, call me (708-829-8245). Until then, try these baby steps. I’d love to hear your comments on how these work for you.

Tags: wardrobe makeover

This entry was posted on Tuesday, December 29th, 2009 at 3:45 pm and is filed under blog items, image, style. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.