Its February in Minnesota…I know…most of you just can’t fathom any other place you’d like to be right now, yet it is around 30 degrees most days, which we consider “balmy.”

In these stretched out days of winter, what does one do to give our closet the life, color and the vibrancy that we’re missing in our sunshine filled, longing-for weekend summer days?

Here are a few suggestions!
1. Stick with a favorite color, and layer it with a contrasting shade. For example: I have a great magenta pink cardigan from Banana Republic. Layer it up with a lively orange button down and jeans for causal friday and leopard print shoes. Boots would work well too!
2. Go with a classic: If in doubt, go with a tried and true, always classy cuffed up black fitted jacket, white button down and dark jeans. Don’t miss the shoes either. Black shoes or boots. Cleaning can do wonders, especially this time of year.
3. Belts, scarves and fun jewelry: Have some fun mixing up your accessories this season and wear those extra pieces you’ve had in the back of the closet. Lots of color, prints, and florals can be mixed and placed together for a great play on dimension.
4. Lace it up: Lace is still hot and adds a touch of feminine charm to any outfit. Black lace paired with ivory is a stunning combo. Navy and black and trendy too.
5. Go bright or go home! On a recent trip to the mall I stumbled across what reminded me of a showcase of Flashdance clothing, think ripped back, mesh tops, shiny shorts, gloves, all in bright, neon colors, gold and silver. Great for going out and yes, I bought a couple of the v neck tees for Zumba… c’mon, who didn’t channel their inner Irene Cara at some point in the 80′s? These Miami inspired fashions are hot hot hot and flattering to wear as well. Enjoy!

Do you have a few pieces in your closet that reward you stellar compliments?  Find yourself reaching for those pieces again and again?!  Naturally..to avoid a clothing rut and keep things fresh its great to add a little variety to a go to item.  As a lover of all things fashion, I look forward to choosing my outfit everyday! I can’t say as though I get it right, 100% of the time, yet the tried and true rules work wonders and we all know true fashionistas never, EVER tell their secrets of where they find their best deals!

With summer coming to a close, and fall fast approaching, I did recently re discover the 87th use for a super fabulous cardigan sweater….all of you who work in a sub zero office building during the summer must know this well.  Yet, a great cardigan will be your BFF,  and if you choose enduring fabric and quality craftsmanship, spending a little more is a solid investment. Here are a few I would recommend:

This cardigan is coral with pink button placket and a confetti like pattern detailing.  100% cotton, from J.Crew.  For sale currently (www.adesignercloset.com); starts as low as $29.99!

For a winter like experience, and something that can go from office to upscale cocktail hour in a heartbeat, check out this Wool and cashmere blend sweater, also from J. Crew!

For a completely different look, wear a graphic tee underneath with your jeans.  These sweaters will last if taken care of properly.

Finally,  a unique, vintage inspired sweater which will complete any outfit, add interest and leave a memorable touch to any outfit. This angora blend sweater has a flattering V neck (great for petite women) and is from Odille.

Enjoy your favorite pieces this time of year with skirts, pants and suits! Be stylish!

-Jo

Minnesota: breathtaking in the Summer and Fall, sometimes we have a Spring, yet the Winter forges extreme climates that could be a 6 month long segment to test strength on not on products, yet reality show contestants alike.  Certain pieces of clothing are unique to the region, think wool sweaters with thick, alpaca lined interiors (we wear these like T shirts) and of course, there is a layer of clothing underneath what is visible on the outside.  It makes for a shedding type of exodus in the Spring  – again, if we’re lucky to experience one.  Being a true Minnesotian and self proclaimed fashionista, there a few pieces that everyone may find themselves reaching for, no matter what the climate and where the road travels.  High style tips ahead!  Read on!

1.  Coordinating Shoes & Belts: Note coordinating – not necessarily matching.  If your office is conservative, or if wearing a uniform, you may require more of a match, yet playing with textures (think fabric and canvas wedges, heels paired with embellished or embossed belts) can give a jolt to an otherwise boring look.  By coordinate, one can pull together same color families for a peak at your whimsical side without going all circus on the office.  Hardware choices are open now as well, with gold being the trend.  Have fun with this one – remember if you’re shoes and belt are doing the talking, let the jewelry take the supporting role!

2. A Chic Carryall Purse: Pack a Punch with a colorful, versatile bag which can go from office to ball park.  This season stripes, mosiac prints, nautical themes or eco friendly totes are popping up everywhere.  If you are going to splurge a bit on one bag for the season to carry to work,  choose one that has structure (conveys all business!) and has attractive hardware as opposed to tassels or a sling, messenger style which may tell those that you’d rather be at the beach (could be!) yet the saying “fake it ’till you make it” applies here.

3.  Sunglasses: Find a great pair of shades (Sorry street vendors) and treat them well; like a regular pair of glasses.  Keep em clean!  A neutral works best (black, brown or tans) and choose the best style for you; bring a trusted friend to give an opinion.  Fantastic shades last for years, if you don’t sit on them (here is where the case comes in, and always remember to use it!) And no, they’re not a under study headband either.  My fave:  Coach aviator shades in toffee.  Another good all around for those who want to spend up is Gucci metal sunglasses.

Have some additional genius tips? Post em! Enjoy your cool new look, available on any budget and spread the beauty!

-Jo

I was laid off from my “real” job last week which seems like an extended summer vacation without the luxury financial cushion slacked in movies and three minute country songs.  Friends and family know that my love for all things fashion has been my passion since the age of 4 or 5 when I would take my mother’s polyester and lace white curtains and attempt to craft them into dresses and head wraps.  The new reality hasn’t set in yet I have found that despite my new status, I have been consulting for clients and colleagues in similar situations over the past couple of years when they have an event approaching and want to get by on the cheap, or utilize things already purchased and re purpose it for their new approach.

Get your fashion on with these ideas for essential elements for any fashion and style for the dog days of summer:

Accessorize! Despite what you are wearing and where you are going, jewelry can make a statement.  It doesn’t have to be expensive, and there are stores that specifically carry in expensive, trendy pieces that will compliment any taste and any occasion.  My go to? Forever 21.  Fun, cool and instant glam to any outfit.

The silver hang necklace was one of the recent purchases from Forever 21 and has the global/ethnic/tribal vibe that is trending now. It is paired with a crocheted cotton top from Lucky.  The top is currently available (www.adesignercloset.com) and is a lingering pink.

Secondly, buttons are a statement accessory piece that can be gone out of the jewelry box yet not forgotten.  Check out this darling pencil skirt with button front:  Any type of button can be added to this pattern and fabric of skirt.  This skirt is currently available (www.adesignercloset.com)

Buttons can also be changed out, or, if you have a bunch of odd ball earrings, utilize them on jacket lapels for a unique themed collection.  J. Crew sells pieces like this as well.  This can be an artsy way to re vamp a jacket which fits you well, and buttons, earrings, broaches, etc., are excellent conversation starters.  Wear them to an event if you are looking to network with others, it makes for an easy ice breaker for others to approach you!

Stripe your way  – Just like the Runway! This past season many top designers sported stripes in all of their spring and summer offerings in all colors, some neon as well!  A super easy way to take your old black belts and turn them into a striped creation to put over your black dress is to use yarn or tape over the belt to create an accessory for next to nothing.  I’ve seen these made and they’re fabulous! Tape can be purchased at any big box home improvement store (think painters tape) and most craft stores carry it as well.  Projects like this are most productive and economical if done in groups; get your gal pals together, each bring a roll and tape, and old belt and see what you come up with!  If nothing else, you’ll have some laughs and good times. Good Luck!

Fellow fashion lovers…its all about wearing what you love and feeling great in it!  We have a few favorites and a few that could leave the closet…sooner rather than later?  Do you have someone candid enough to tell you this information?!  Check your outfit and overall look for these DON’Ts to make sure you aren’t on the list of have nots, or has been!

5.  Panty or Underwear Lines:  This is for men and women!  Yes, Men I’m talking your language too!  Shapewear is a universally spoken language for the sexes and made to fit and flatter.  Check it out if you’re wearing light colored clothing or certain fabrications that scream for body attention (linen, for example).    Be sure to buy a size up, not the size you want it to make you look!

4.  Bad shoes!  This can be a real disaster for those that get everything else right about their outfits.  Shoes do matter and yes, guys I’m talking to you on this…chics check out your shoes.  If their good, chances are you have a better chance than the poor sap that bought the cheap knock offs.  If you can’t afford the top of the line (and who can?!) than buy what you can.  Remember, you will wear them frequently if they are comfortable and versatile.  Leather can be polished, re soled and re tipped.  Shoes can be stretched, and given new laces.  Think twice about buying three cheap pairs and invest in a solid pair that will last.

3.  Fit.  Its all about the proper fit with your clothing and shoes!  Find a decent tailor, if you live in the St. Paul/Minneapolis area I have an excellent referral.  Quality pieces fit well, tailor made.   Clothing that doesn’t fit can cheapen your entire image, even if you purchase high end, designer garments.  Invest the extra cha ching for the pop in all your favorite, timeless wardrobe classics.  You will have them forever!

2.  Dress Your Age!  Young or Old…if your children’s jeans fit, do not wear them unless there is laundry crisis.  If you need assistance in this area, most department stores have personal shopping assistants, or ask a trusted friend/family member.  If your uniform is jeans and sweatshirts…try jeans and a blazer with a comfy tee underneath.  This will structure your look, be comfortable, and everyone will ask if you lost 15 pounds!  For men, get out of the active wear, unless of course you’re coming/going to the gym.  Jeans and a button down shirt, or pull over are easy and look great for running errands, a movie or out for coffee/cocktails.

1.  Roots!  Yes…your hair we’re talking here.  It does take a minute to schedule the appointment, yet the gray or black roots are like the white socks with the black pants and black shoes…shocking!  Take the minute to take care of yourself and you’ll be so glad you did…you’ll look great, and have a fresh perspective on the day!

Need a new insight to your look and image?  Give me a shout!  jo@adesignercloset.com

You’ve woke up an hour later than intended, or you realized 10 minutes before you need to leave a huge shift in responsibilities that will place the spotlight on you!  What to wear?  Here are some easy, hands down, go to necessities that are sure fire winners every time, no matter what the budget!

1.  The Basic Black Dress.  Everyone has one and if you don’t…GET one!  It doesn’t have to be expensive, extravagant or designer.  The more conservative the dress, the more use you’ll get out of it.  If you can’t afford a silk lined dress, go for a polyester or rayon garment which flatters to fit.  This dress will become a canvas for cardigan sweaters, scarves, great jewelry and coordinating belts and shoes.  If worn correctly, you can wear this dress every week and no one will know it is the same frock!

2.  The wrap dress.  Get a true wrap dress…not only figure flattering to everyone, these are usually made from polyester so they are easy breezy to care for and to wear.  Excellent for commuters and look fresh no matter how long you have sat in the car.  Require minimal to no accessorizing, yet if you want, no citations issued.  Theme these the same as the black dress…a solid color will last longer and be more versatile yet a print is engaging and can trend with a season year in and year out! My favorite? Diane von Furstenberg Justin Dress.

3.  Not a dress person, or perhaps you work in an environment where jeans are spoken. I get it.  Here’s one for you.  Dark jeans, and a structured blazer/jacket.  Choose a jacket with key big buttons.  Three buttons look great.  Single button is a power stance.   Anything with texture.  Don’t steal the thunder with lots of embellishments on your jeans…save those for happy hour.  Wear clothing that fits well, and if they feel too tight, they likely are.  Only wear your jeans, not your teenage daughters!  The jacket should hit a little below your natural waist line, no lower.

4.  Classic white button down blouse and you decide (black dress/dark jeans/or your favorite pencil skirt!) This is a great look, think Audrey Hepburn, Jackie O., classic, clean style that looks timeless. My personal collection features several different styles yet I reach for the french cuffed, simple lined styled blouses the most frequently.  Paired with gray pants, you can wear funky shoes and great earrings!  Pair it with a vibrant skirt and neutral heels.  Naturally, worn with jeans and a black blazer, you instantly have created a classic yet down to earth outfit, fit for just about anywhere.

Enjoy these tips and modify them as you see them playing out in your fashion world!  Be stylish! -Jo

There are chic, cheap and easy ways to amp up your style that look designer crafted on your pauper budget!  Here are some tips:

• Add color! Spring is the perfect time to crash course your closet and saturate it with color.  Cobalt blue is a fave!  It works well with neutrals and can mix flawlessly into casual or career looks.  Try this!  Get a jeweled toned skirt (such as a blue, purple, or darker pink) and wear it with all grays/silvers/or a crisp white button down, it will definitely place your showpiece in the spotlight!
• Mix up your hemlines!  If you’re a fan of the jacket and blazer, try a crop jacket, or a fitted style.  Tweed jackets and cardigan styles can also break up a suit in a snap.  Freshen up your trouser pants for some new looks with age appropriate styles for any taste.  Twist up your classic gray blazer with a patterned belt over it and a skirt.  All these looks are great for experimenting and once you’re looking great – you’ll be feeling great as well.  Confidence is sexy!
• Work the Denim scene!  Denim has evolved from the days where we pinned our jeans and stuck a comb in the back pocket!  Yes…admit it, we thought it looked cool.  Seeking out the best fit is challenging yet know if you’re aiming for a denim that will be the most versatile, go with a dark denim with subtle stitching in a misses/regular sizing.  Avoid too low rise and always do the “test” in the fitting room which consists of sitting down with the jeans on and taking a strong look at what’s goin on “back there.”  If you see it…we all see it!  If they’re too low and revealing too much, move on!  If you have found a brand of jeans that fit your body well…why deviate?  Denim companies make all different styles, fits and cuts in their signature patterns there is a great chance you will find the fit you’re seeking, in the cut you want (skinny jeans and boot cuts alike).  Spring is a great time to change up your jean style for a tease in your usual look!  Also making a big comeback this Spring…White Denim!
• Inspiration pieces and investments:  I receive inquiries regarding where and how I place items together.  For a true fashionista…fabric represents art and placing pieces of art together is parallel to how some would arrange portraits or pictures on a wall.  Engaging inspiration is illustrated from your clothing if you choose, yet some mornings, its just not there.  I get it!  Here are a few insider tips for some go to ideas in a New York minute:

1)  Your favorite catalog / magazine which is cluttering up your table!
2) Turn on your saved episodes of Mad Men, Sex in the City or Project Runway
3)  Recall the fashion pairings that caught your eye the last time you went shopping and recreate them based upon your own garments.   What motivated you to walk in that store?  Your fashion defining elements are all around, simply tap into them!  Happy Spring Fashion!

Want some polished ideas to pull together your look for work or play?  Here are some sleek tips to pull off more style, with existing items in your closet and some updated trends on how to wear these pieces effectively!

Layer – Any body shape or size can layer; with many pieces it boils down to proportion.  Read on:

The Chunky Cable Knit Sweater – A great texture to throw on with jeans.  Wear to a hockey game or Sunday afternoon football party.  If your sweater is long, belt it.  Underneath, wear a thin, lightweight simple blouse.  No designs or pockets on the shirt underneath, it just takes away from the sweater…steals its thunder.  Chunky sweaters come in all lengths, and shorter cropped ones are darling paired over a crisp white tee!

Here is a pic of a short open cardigan I am currently offering, adorable paired over a green jersey top by Lux:

A clean way to sport some cardigans out there are the new and revamped “Grandpa” cardigans.  These can be versatile and mixed up in anyone’s closet to equal a solid investment.  Wear it under a crop jacket, or over a tank.  Varying up the lengths for visual interest.  If you’re petite, don’t get lost in these longer cardigans…make sure to belt your waist and again, keep the layer underneath simple and neutral.  I wore this one paired with a leopard belt, pinstriped lorise trouser pants, camel pointed toe stilettos; a dressy outfit for work and not your boring black stiff suit.

Here is a navy and camel cotton/cashmere blend sweater by J. Crew currently being offered by A Designer Closet!

Experimenting with laid back finds can make some of your casual clothing more accessible and bring them into your work wardrobe in small doses.

Paired with toe grazing front seamed trouser pants, and a printed blouse, little jackets can easily transcend from Saturdays to Mondays if paired with the correct pieces.  Here is a fun denim jacket by Tulle that can be placed in any clothing environment and thrive!  This is currently being offered for sale at A Designer Closet (www.adesignercloset.com):

Tulle Denim Jacket with adorable polka dot lining!

These pieces will make respectful additions behind your fierce workhorse pieces!  If you d like more ideas, please email me: jo@adesignercloset.com

Thank you to everyone who emailed in their best fashion finds too!  Lots of fun and great bargains out there.  Keep em coming in!  Shop on!