Stylebook

Did you know about the Stylebook closet app? I think I’m the last person on the planet to download this app, but I’m really digging it. Long story short, you can use it to take photos of your clothes, catalog them, and organize them into outfits. Pull up a chair. I’m going to walk you through the highlights.

First, photograph and catalog your closet.  I’m not gonna lie--it’s not easy and takes a lot of practice! Pick an item…any item. In this example I chose a cardigan sweater. You lay it down on a flat, one-colored surface. The color of the surface has to be completely different that the sweater. Smooth out the wrinkles. This step is difficult for me, because my idea of ironing is to spray things down with Downey Wrinkle Release and give them a good shake immediately before wearing them. Take a photo, select “manual edit” to clean it up and you will have something that looks like this:

I’ve started to label each of my pieces with helpful notes. Always wear this with a belt. Bought this at a thrift store. Looks great with rose gold jewelry. In this case, I noted that the dress has a very bodycon fit and looks less scandalous with a duster or kimono.

Now you are in business!  From here, you can begin to sort your items into different categories and begin using the other features.

The closet feature allows to file away your items into categories like tops, bottoms, shoes and outerwear. You can edit the names of the categories and even add in subcategories. Tops—blouses—button up, for example. From there you can create different outfit combinations. 

You can create visual packing lists for upcoming trips. Instead of ripping out countless black sweaters while deciding which ones to pack, I can sort through photos of those black sweaters and add them into a packing list.

The Inspiration feature is fun. Basically, you search the internet for photos of items you might like to purchase and save that photo to try it with items you already own or create an inspirational outfit.

For those who are significantly more organized than I am, check out the Calendar feature. It allows you to schedule outfits ahead of time for each day. Say goodbye to the early morning panic as you try to put a blouse and trousers together. Just open your Stylebook calendar and see which outfit you planned to wear today.

At this point, you might be thinking, Amy…who has time to photograph every accessory, shoe and clothing item in her closet? I know. We all have many other unfinished projects taunting us, but I think this one is worth it. 

Do you use a special app or another method to organize your wardrobe? Any tips to share?

Springtime Glow

It’s March. I live in Iowa. I haven’t seen the sun in days. I’m a pale chick with freckles who loves the look of bronzed skin. Clearly, I don’t have a lot of options for a natural summer glow right now.

Spray tanning to the rescue. Occasionally I get a spray in one of those automated booths. It’s quick and easy, but for some reason I always walk away with a white skunk stripe down my back. Not good. I have no idea why those machines cannot reach the middle of my back, but it’s always a disappointment. I have also used various self-tanning sprays and lotions on my own at home. After years of experimentation, I finally found a brand that gives me a natural color. And…..a rash all over my body, sadly. Not cute.

Recently, I had the opportunity to get a custom airbrush spray tan at Bronze 515 in Clive, Iowa. I scheduled an appointment online with the owner, Leah Wafful. I selected the “515” whole body tan. Leah offers suggestions on her website for prepping your skin ahead of time at home to ensure the best tan possible. I exfoliated, avoided any lotions, grabbed my summer bikini (which led to a trip to the gym later) and met Leah at her studio. She walked through her product line with me. Its vegan, gluten-free and paraben free—bonus! She customized my tan, based on my skin tone and desired depth of color. She gave me instructions along the way—how to position my arms and legs to get the best results and what to do to extend the life of my tan. I’m currently on day five with minimal fading! While I was there, I picked up a bottle of tan extender from Leah that can be applied to keep the glow going as long as possible. I thought Leah’s pricing was very reasonable and the quality of her products and service are hard to find. She offers a 15% discount to melanoma survivors and active military personnel and veterans. 

I love supporting a local business and I really loved the results!  Here are a couple of photos. Nothing better than a safe tan!! Thanks, Leah!

Road Warrior with Style

Work travel has been a part of my life for over ten years. Gallivanting all over the country via planes, trains and automobiles. As I reflect on my first year traveling, I have to laugh at the many mistakes that made my life miserable getting from point A to point B. 

Packing five pairs of shoes = 20 extra pounds.

Forgetting to take my liquids out of my carry on. 

Shampoo bottle blow outs in my suitcase. 

Freezing or sweating my way through a city, because I didn’t check the weather ahead of time. 

I could go on and on and on.

I was packing for a quick work trip to Las Vegas and thought I’d take a few photos and write up a few tips I’ve learned along the way. It's important to be efficient, but I still want to have a little style. This is not exhaustive by any means, but kind of gives you a method to my madness for a quick business trip out of town.

When I have limited time and space, I like to pick one or two coordinating neutrals (charcoal and navy in this case) that I can wear alone or together. If I pack color, it's usually in accessories such as a scarf, shoes or jewelry. For this trip, I put together a charcoal dress, navy blazer, navy blouse and white and navy skirt. Easily mixed and matched. I added in a pair of navy wedges that could be worn with any combination.

I always try to find a little time to get a workout in, so I always toss in a hat, running shoes and workout gear. To save space, I only pack one pair of shorts, a tee and sports bra. I use the shampoo in the hotel to hand wash and rinse them out and hang them to dry in the hotel for another use. I put a baggie with protein powder in a shaker bottle for a quick breakfast on the go.

(Also, I like to reuse my workout clothes as late night "lounge wear" when I'm in my hotel room.)

I found a cosmetic case that holds all of my make up and hair needs, but it's always a good idea to put bottled lotions, shampoos and other liquids in a gallon-sized zipper bag. I can't tell you how many times I had a bottle of something leak (or explode) and ruin my clothes. My work schedule is busy enough once I land--I do NOT need to try to fit in an emergency trip to a store to try to find something to wear all week. 

I carry a big leather tote, but pack a large zippered pouch inside that can hold my wallet and essentials. Once I get to my destination, this gives me the flexibility to use the pouch as a clutch if I'm going out to dinner and don't need the entire tote. Inside my tote I carry a book, my electronics, work files, a large scarf for unexpected drafts, warm socks for cold air coming in plane windows, hand and face lotion, and healthy snacks such as nuts, protein bars and an apple. I add in an empty glass water bottle to fill once I get to the airport (after security).  All of the essentials!

I tend to lay everything out before putting anything in my suitcase. I am pretty picky about how I fill my bag and will have to write a future post on that. I pretty much use the same packing process every time I travel, because once I find something that works, I don’t mess with it!

So, to recap my tips for efficient travel packing for the stylish gal on the go:

1. Pack two coordinating neutrals for business clothes, casual clothes and shoes. Add in pops of color with accessories.

2. Make your health a priority in work travel and in your suitcase! Add in workout clothes and protein shakes for on the go energy. Wash your workout gear in the hotel sink for multiple uses.

3. Put all of your toiletries in a zippered bag that will protect your clothes from any unexpected leakage. 

4. Shoes. One pair of athletic shoes. One pair of shoes for work meetings and one for casual downtime. That will save you space and major weight when you are dragging your bag behind you. I know this is a tough one, but you really don't NEED more than that to get through a couple of days. While we are talking shoes...they can be great space savers. I stuff my small items, such as socks and accessories, inside my shoes!

5. Pack a tote like you are going to be stranded in the wilderness. Snacks, water bottle, phone charger, book, lotion, socks and a scarf. Bonus tip: a pretty zippered pouch that can moonlight as a clutch purse. 

I could add another layer of items I would consider to be non-essential, but when I'm in and out for a quick trip, this is really all I need. 

What travel essentials do you always include in your bag? I would love to hear your tips as well!

Double D

That's right folks....we are talking about Double D today. Double denim! I'll admit that I've avoided wearing denim tops and bottoms at the same time, because I was terrified of looking like this...

After checking out denim on denim looks ala Madewell, I found myself warming to the idea and decided to experiment! There are a few tricks to keep in mind if you want to pull it off. 

1. Mix up your washes! Wearing the same wash on top and on bottom can be tricky and personally, I wouldn't go there. Here I paired a pale denim button up with dark wash skinny jeans. I think it's important to wear a belt when you tuck in a shirt. Maybe I'm biased due to my short torso, but I am convinced that a belt "gives me a shape", as my grandma used to say.

2. Add in layers to change up the look. Here I tossed on a woven jacket with a fun pattern on top. Sometimes I add in a boyfriend cardigan, pleather jacket or structured blazer with this look. They all give it a different feel and I like the idea of taking one outfit and completely changing it up in less than 30 seconds!

3. White denim! Where are my white denim girls? It's so versatile and don't even talk to me about that whole "no white after labor day" silliness. Fashion = no rules! Seriously, though, for years I avoided white jeans. I thought it would make my behind look bigger or would make me look like I was wearing a nurse's uniform. Then I decided, life is too short! Wear those white jeans!! You have a lot of flexibility with pairing your white denim. Here I am wearing a striped knit top and a denim jacket I've had for a decade. (Never throw them out---they always come back in style!)

4. Accessories pull it all together. The fun stuff. Shoes, jewelry, belts, scarves, hats! A denim snap shirt and white jeans are fine, but the accessories make an outfit. Here I added a studded belt and some blingy earrings. 

 Don't be afraid to dress outside of your comfort zone. I avoided double denim for so long, but now that I've figured out how to make it work for me, I have a lot of options. 

I'd love to hear your tips for styling denim on denim!

A Spring Dress Three Ways

 
Recently, I was at Target, grabbing something quick, and walked by a new display featuring their new collab with Who What Wear. It didn't take long before I had an armful of pieces and was on my way to the dressing room to try them on. I walked away with this open sleeve beach dress in olive. I chose this dress, because I knew I'd be able to wear it throughout the end of winter and into spring with a little creative styling. I've put together three looks for you, but the options are endless with this one!

Here I styled it as a tunic over a pair of skinny jeans with a pair of booties. It's the perfect length, and with the right cardigan sweater, I can keep warm if there is a chill in the air.

Skinnies (similar here)

Booties (similar here)

Felt hat (similar here)

It's February in Iowa, so in reality, one day it's 50 degrees and the next it's 30. This dress gives me options, no matter the temperature. Above, I popped on a military jacket, a pair of black leggings and knee high boots to stay warm.

Black Leggings (similar here)

Boots (similar here)

Military Jacket (similar here)

What to wear to those spring weddings? Have a cocktail party after work? Throw on some glitter heels, a fancy schmantzy necklace and you are good to go! 

Glitter Heels (similar here)

Necklace (similar here)

Purse (similar here)

Can't find this dress at your local Target? Here's an alternative--and in five different colors! 

Spring is right around the corner. Don't be afraid to start adding a few warmer weather styles to your closet. Just use a little imagination (and a few layers) and go strut your stuff!

Brush Your Shoulders Off

Open-shoulder blouses are the best of both worlds. You get full coverage. You can hide a multitude of sins if you haven't had time to hit the gym lately. You get to show a little peek of skin without looking desperate for attention. Win, win, win! I picked up this one at Target--similar here.  

I've been looking around the internet for other open-shoulder looks and have come up with four more that I LOVE! 

Clockwise from the top left corner:

Regan Buttondown by Anthropologie

Velvet Open-Shoulder Top by Anthropologie

Mavra Blouse by Anthropologie

Kaleidoscope Top by Free People

What a perfect transition piece for spring! I'm thinking white skinny jeans. I'm thinking distressed boyfriend jeans. Or maybe some new wide-legged trousers? You have so many options with an open-shoulder blouse. 

I hope you find the perfect one for you and show those shoulders with pride!

Tips for a Successful “Dig” at Consignment Stores

I have a not so secret love for consignment shops. First, I adore “the hunt”---or as I like to call it, “the dig”. I really do feel like I’m unearthing fashion relics, once loved and now discarded. I get a thrill out of sliding each hanger from right to left, checking for colors, patterns and interesting details not found in every mainstream shop. Secondly, I can find something different in every shop. I travel for work and inevitably, I end up with an hour to kill between meetings. Every city has a consignment shop with its own vibe. It’s so satisfying to dash in and out in under an hour and leave with a treasure or two….or ten!

Recently, I was in Fort Myers, Florida and came across ThePink Petunia consignment shop. I popped in and the staff was so friendly and helpful. They told me about their daily sales and gave me a quick tour.

What did I find? Check it out!

This fringed pullover by Velvet is lightweight, has a boho vibe and will be perfect with white jeans or shorts this spring and summer.

This pink cardigan from Chicos originally retailed for $99. I got it for $25! It has mohair in the weave and feel so, so soft.

This White House Black Market Striped Tunic is fitted in the torso, but has caftan style sides that give it a special something...

I found this Kassidy Animal Print Top by Chicos, originally retailed for $99 and I got it for $17! It's in great shape and I can use it so many ways...with a suit at work, with jeans, layering with a leather blazer or denim jacket, and on and on....

This Cabi Hanky Hem Thermal Tunic is multi-seasonal and and the little "feathery" hem is a unique detail.

Here are my tips for quickly finding items that represent your style when shopping second hand:

1. Think about unique, hard to find items, and start there. In my case, that means funky leather jackets in my size. For you, it may be interesting accessories, leather belts, cashmere or high-end jeans. Find those pieces first and set them aside in a dressing room while you look for other items.
2. Scan the area to see how they sort the store. Is it by color? Is it by brand? Is it by size? If they have racks with high-end brands, I make a bee-line. This is critical, my friends. I have found Paige, Citizens for Humanity and AG jeans, current season, still for sale in stores in a consignment shop---usually priced under $50.00!
3. Go rack by rack. Find your size and do a quick visual scan to find colors, patterns and fabrics that you prefer. That is how I can quickly search through hundreds of hangers in a short period of time.
4.  When you find something that catches your eye, look for stains, odd shrinkage, discoloration or missing buttons, zippers, etc.
5. Do a quick scan of sizes adjacent to your own. Many items consigned were accidentally put in the dryer and then…shrunk. The tag might be above your usual size, but if it took a trip through the dryer, it might (now) be just your size.
6.  After you try on the pieces you selected, think about your current wardrobe. Will this item fit in with your style? Can you think of multiple outfits you can create using this piece and others you already own?
7. Before I check out, I usually make one final swing around the shop to look at accessories. You might find a hidden gem that you didn’t see the first time around.

You don't have to wait for a business trip or vacation to look for consignment shops--check out your local city. Your friends will ask, "Where did you find that...?" I'll leave it up to you to decide if you want to reveal your secret!