Overall look -- sloppy or chic?

I was torn whether or not to consider this a "wrong" fashion statement. I love the messenger bag, leather short military style jacket, and scarf, but was unsure if it all worked.

I'm a big proponent of mixing it up and creating unusual layers and textures but there is a method to achieving all this madness. Does the total look scream sloppy or does it imply cool, bohemian style?

I think the reason I am having this unsureness is because this look borders on the sloppy side. Even with great pieces the overall effect is sloppy looking.

There are simple changes that can change this look from sloppy to cool chic.

Here are a few I can think of:

1. Change the footwear to a trendy short boot or chunky heel shoe. This change will focus the eye vertically, creating an elongated lean look. This always creates a cool and chic overall look.
2. Change the floral blouse to a accent color t-shirt or knit sweater. The focus then will be on the great leather jacket instead of the jacket being an afterthought.
3. Think fabric when you think seasons. Yes, color has no seasons but fabric certainly does. The scarf and blouse which are both average pieces don't work well with the leather jacket and messenger bag. Choose a heavier weight scarf in a fabric that will drape well and a pattern blouse that mimics the colors shown in the scarf.
4. As I said before I love the bag but this overall look feels weighted down by the bag. Consider body frame size and height when choosing a handbag. Completing point # 1 above will help this look carry this bag.

Remember to tie it all together. Look in the mirror before you leave the house. Scream COOL not SLOPPY.

Always remain in style.

What's Right? A great coat!

It's cold outside and time for a great coat. One of the reasons I like this time of year, (the fall/winter seasons), are the fabulous clothes. What's right to invest in this season? A great coat!

I recently attended the Latino Fashion Week student show and IADT student designer Ariana showcased her winning collection of wearable looks. The neutral color, big button coat with the wide sash belt was a stand out for me. The fabric of the coat is a mid-weight wool and the asymmetrical closure is perfect for any body type.

The basic coat every woman should have in their wardrobe is a trench coat. Manufacturer Burberry is a must for most.

Usually purchased with a zip out lining it's the perfect item to carry you through the fall, winter months.

Have you acquired your coat yet? If not, think classic yet contemporary in style. Show off your figure and be sure to invest in a quality piece.

I'll be checking out the coats everyone is wearing lately to see if I can find any new looks to add to my collection. A great coat is an easy way to update your look; just add a third outerwear piece.

Wardrobe & Image = Style

I always find that during recessionary times, people out of work, and individuals just needing a beauty lift, image consultants seem to get very busy.

I wanted to send this message to everyone interested in learning about how best to achieve their own personal style.

Join me and other image consultants for a Wardrobe & Image Event.

On Saturday, October 31st, from 7:30 am until 4:30 pm, at the Center on Halsted, I will host a series of mini workshops on personal style.

Topics include:

Fashion Personalities, The Cluster Concept, Grooming & Etiquette, and Body Types & Style. Informal modeling will tie everything together during the closing session. Lunch session will include guest speaker Nena Ivon speaking on Chicago Style. Want more? How about food; continental breakfast and a box lunch; all for only $175! Student rate is $75 with proof of student identification. Cash and charge accepted.

Why not invest in YOU this month. Spend a day getting tips on beauty and style that will carry you throughout your entire life. If interested in the business of image consulting this day will help clarify your ideas on this exciting industry.

Spread the word. Questions? email me, nancy@finethreadschicago.com

Learn how not to be a fashion don't but how to be a style maven.

Until next time...

Skinny Jeans

Skinny jeans are the trend. Can everyone wear them? No, of course not. Do you have to be tall and skinny to wear the skinny jeans? Well it would help but not necessarily.

Caitlin, young beauty in the photograph, is wearing a couple of new trends well. The skinny dark denim jean and the high heel pump bootie (or at least that's what I call these shoes).

Caitlin is not tall, but she has paired her skinny denim with a high heel shoe to balance out her total look. Hence, you have a well proportioned overall look. The skinny jean worn with or without the leather jacket in this look is just right.

One other trend in the photo so many people are asking about is wearing the color white after Labor Day. The answer is yes, you can wear white after Labor Day. Color has no season, but fabric certainly does! Caitlin's white off-or-on-the-shoulder top is season-less.

So go try on a pair of skinny jeans and see which brand works best with your body type. Pair them with a high heel shoe and you will be sporting a trend that everyone will notice.

Sacrifice or Comfort?

The new style in footwear is high -- very high heels.

As you can see from the photo I wanted to be part of this high-heel-wearing fashionable crowd. At 5'4" tall I grew to a model height of 5'8" in these shoes. I felt tall, beautiful, and stylish when I wear heels this high.

I recently invested in this beautiful pair of BCBG black patent 4 1/2 inch heels to wear in New York for fashion week. I've only worn them twice but wonder now if I will ever wear them again.

In New York City I felt perfectly in style; with the in crowd, and definitely felt good about myself. Now back in Chicago I posted these shoes on Craigslist to sell them to anyone who also wants to be fashionable and cute and going to New York City.

Don't get me wrong, I love these shoes as I said before. They are even quite comfortable to wear. The thick heel helps to control your balance so you don't tip over. But for some reason I don't see myself wearing them here in Chicago.

Shame on me. Do I discriminate against my own city? Do I not see the value of these expensive shoes in Chicago? I bought them here in Chicago and all the sales girls loved them on me. I don't think they own a pair themselves but they continued to stress these were the shoes that were worn by all the models in the BCBG runway show this past year.

Now I should have known, (because I go to plenty of fashion shows), that the shoes worn in the shows aren't necessarily the shoes that are meant to be worn by the everyday person going out for an evening. The shoes are appropriately named DIVA. How many more clues did designer Max Azria have to give me? I did feel like a diva when I wore them so I believe I got at least part of my money's worth.

Shoes can make an outfit and this Diva pair did that for me and will do that for anyone else out there who wants to grow 4 inches. Any takers?

New York Fashion Week

I always look forward to New York Fashion Week every year. The hustle and bustle of the city, the restaurants, and of course the people watching.

During this time of year there are plenty of tourists visiting the city of New York, like myself. As I took the photo of the gentleman in the black leather boots, wide black buckled belt, gray sweater, and the pointy mohawk type hairdo, I wondered if he was from New York. He said no, London. I should have guessed - another fashion capital a little more on the edgy, punk rock side, as exhibited by this gentleman's attire.

I didn't find out if black and gray unitard guy was from New York but he was comfortable walking around inside the tents. Confidence is a step in the right direction of showing the world who you truly are, so more power to this guy for braving this look.

My friends T & Sonya's fashions look tame compared to the avant- garde looks shown by the two gentleman in the photograph. But as you can see both have true style. T is wearing unique clothing items and accessories -- from the sunglasses and scarf to the newspaper print tank. Sonya exhibits color so well that you can't help but notice her beauty.

Chicago's fashion week is coming up; October 22 - 25 at Millennium Park. Attending past shows at the park I don't believe I've seen anything (fashion-wise) like I've seen in New York.

Are we too conservative and business minded in Chicago?

Do the unique, trendy people not show up for these events?

Will Chicago ever be considered a fashion capital?

Don't we have the mix of people from all over the world that helps to create a melting pot of fashion ideas?

Or do we all follow the masses and stick to our classics and basics?

Since I am true to being of the Chicago "contemporary classic" way my favorites from fashion week were Tuleh, Derek Lam, Tracy Reese, and the designers from Arise: African Promise Collective. All had beautiful wearable looks and the colors were bright, cheerful, yet still unique.

I had to leave New York on Tuesday and could not stay to see the collections from Michelle Smith, Michael Kors, or Nanette Lepore but looking online they didn't disappoint. Even Project Runway winner Christian Siriano showcased some wearable beautiful looks. I did have the opportunity to attend his show even though I'm still angry at him for beating out my favorite Rami Kashou. I've got to hand it to him, he does have imagination.

What do you think of Chicago style? It was very easy for me to pinpoint London style so can you do the same for Chicago?

After Midnight...

It's officially the last weekend of summer. Labor Day came fast to me this year probably because we didn't have much of a summer. Even though I did get the opportunity to do all my favorite summer activities -- Ravinia, Grant Park movies, Film Fest, Taste of Chicago and all the festivals, including jazz, gospel and blues fests -- I still think it's too soon for summer to end.

I decided to join two other friends for an evening of fun, dancing and eating out. First stop, Sunda, the new hot sushi place in the loop. If you're looking for great sushi and wanting to see beautiful people this is the place to go. Service was a bit slow but I'm willing to give the place another chance because it's a holiday weekend and everyone is out enjoying the beautiful weather.

Now its close to midnight and we decide to go to another new bar, Cuvee. We step up to the doorman and he informs us the club is not open yet. Upon further investigation we find out the club usually doesn't open on Sunday's but because of the holiday they will be open from midnight until 4 am. I check my watch and it's 11:56 pm. OK, only 4 minutes so let's wait. We all hate standing in line. While waiting, my friend notices the doorman speaking to another gentleman, probably the manager, and he proceeds to shake his head in the NO direction. My friend says, "we aren't going to get in." Mmmmm....aren't we on a list? Don't we know someone name Ivan and I do know Bridget? I guess not because doorman says no, we aren't on the list. Needless to say we didn't argue but just walked away texting everyone about our experience. It's a good thing there wasn't a crowd or how embarrassing that would be!

This has prompted me to check out what clothing does one need after midnight to get into the clubs? The photos in this posting were taken at nightclub Underground, (they did let us in) and as you can see the attire is tight, short, and show as much skin as possible! The men on the other hand looked a bit casual, sometimes too casual. T-shirts or shirts worn with denim was the male uniform for the evening. Women -- we have to show it all to get attention.

I need an "after midnight" cluster of clothing. I don't think it will be to this extreme but maybe in a "baby boomer" kinda way cute, sexy, yet definitely me.

Nothing is left to the imagination anymore. Whatever happened to the slow peeling away of clothing creating a mystery before you actually show it all? Nowadays you see thongs, bra straps, and sometimes even the coochie when you sit down! Do we really need to go to this extreme to attract attention? Don't get me wrong, I like most short and tight dresses on some people. But herein lies the problem -- there are some individuals wearing this look that need not apply! In a previous posting I referred to bumps and rolls and all that. A tight, short dress should be reserved to the appropriate body type -- a curvy, hourglass figure.

So, what does your "after midnight" clothing look like? Tell me so I know what to look for and before I go shopping. Even an image consultant needs help!

Socks & Sandals

Here we go again. It's that time of the year when you say, "Am I still wearing summer or am I wearing fall?" Whew -- what to do- it's cold and then it's hot all in the same day.

In May I posted a statement on Sneakers and Hosiery. This "running-to-work" look is still not cool. So I still see plenty of people who don't care about the image they are portraying with this look.

Footwear remains an issue; the socks or hose with sandals dilemma. Why wear both? If you plan on wearing sandals skip the socks or the hosiery. It's never an attractive picture to see a shoe meant to be worn without hosiery worn with hosiery.

So what do you do? Wear sandals without hosiery or choose a style of footwear that will still keep you cool yet provide some coverage over your feet.

Women -- sling-backs are a viable option. Toes are covered but the back of the foot is out.

Men -- there are attractive sandals with cut out style options yet still covers the foot.

Choose your look but remember image does matter. Always remember, what is the intended purpose of your footwear choice? Why is this style in existence? If you answer these questions correctly you won't commit this terrible faux pas.

FiveFingers Footwear

I don't know where I've been but I have never heard of FiveFingers Footwear. This barefoot performance footwear is slowly gaining popularity amongst the masses.

My viewpoint of this footwear is similar to my opinion of flip flops and crocs about whom should really be wearing these shoes. I have to say my reasoning remains the same: wear the shoes as it was meant to be worn by the original designer.

As noted on the FiveFingers website their footwear is "the ideal crossover shoe for multiple sports and activities." Activities mentioned for this footwear are core strength training, yoga and Pilates. In addition, windsurfing and kayaking are great for this footwear.

So why am I seeing people wear these high performance shoes walking around the street? Maybe they are trying to put themselves in touch with the "earth beneath their feet" and trying to "liberate themselves to move in a more natural way."

I don't think these shoes are going to be the next fashion statement so I really don't get all the fuss. I could be wrong but there are tons of women, including myself, who love shoes but I don't see any of us running to get a pair of FiveFingers (unless they were for sport purposes).

The gentleman in this photograph wore his FiveFingers to school. Yes, he said they were comfortable, yet I seem to think he was just trying to attract attention and invite conversation which he certainly did.

I applaud FiveFingers for being so inventive and introducing this barefoot concept. Let's just hope it remains in the sport arena and not out on the streets of fashionable Chicago.

Bra Basics

I'm beginning to see plenty of bra strap exposure lately. In this photo the back bra band is exposed.

If you would ask the sweater designer if this is the look they would like to see with their design I wonder if they would say yes; just curious?

This beautiful, low scoop, tie top back of this sweater is interrupted with a bra band. Mmmmm........why?

There are plenty of bras (if she needs one) out there that would work with this sweater. Several options are:

1. Backless bra -- this bra would be perfect for this sweater. It is meant to be worn with garments that are backless.
2. Convertible bra -- this bra has straps that can convert into a variety of configurations such as halter, one shoulder, or strapless. The one bra that can work in many ways.

As somewhat of a fashion designer and seamstress since childhood, and because I work with plenty of up and coming designers, I know the beauty of the design is very important.

Wipe away the black bra band in the photo and show off the back. A look that the designer would appreciate. The bra exposure trend does not work here. If you invest in this look invest in the foundation that also goes with the look. Don't ruin the total look of your garment. In this case it would be better to see a bare back under the scoop then a plain black bra band.

Lesson learned: A good foundation garment can improve your image.

Think Fall 2009!

What's RIGHT for Fall 2009:

I've recently received the September issue of a few of my favorite magazines -- Real Simple, O, Details, and In Style.

Every single one of them is promoting fall fashion -- what's new, what to get, and what to look forward to.

Details for menswear says "The only Suit you ever need for Fall." The pinstripe suit sends a powerful message to all.

Remember, fit is very important -- no baggy looks this season -- nip and tuck in at the waist -- even for men.

Real Simple showcased beautiful must-have handbags for fall. My favorite is from designer Botkier. The look is distressed lambskin -- beautiful yet functional.

O magazine list the 4 must-have pieces for fall - the tan trench, navy blazer, gray dress, and black skirt. I'm a fan of Oprah's creative director Adam Glassman. He speaks to the masses and makes common sense about fashion. Nothing boring, practical yet contemporary.

While the weather is warm and outdoor activities are bustling we are already thinking fall. Yes, it's great to think ahead and plan your clothing -- what will you need to complete your cluster? If you don't already own these key pieces it's time to invest. Start your shopping now, even if it means just looking. The early bird does get the worm and grabs the unique, must-have items early.

I'm in the market for a great handbag and am willing to spend the money investing in a great, stand-out piece. Can't wait -- fall here we come!

GREEN & Your Personal Style

I attended an event last night called Green Revolution -- an evening of organic beauty, fashion and wellness. Everyone and everything is going green. As I ate the raw food, drank the organic wine, and previewed the organic clothing on display I couldn't help but wonder why it has taken us (Americans) so long to figure out how we are destroying our world and our bodies.

Being the "clothes horse" that I am and recent 30 pound lost health nut, this event invite peaked my curiosity but I did not know what to expect.

Once I arrived with my friend Young I immediately saw several people that I knew. Each commented the same thing; "I didn't know what to expect but decided to come."

Karyn's vegetarian cuisine appetizers was quite delicious. I've been to her restaurant on Halsted before but obviously didn't choose the right things! We quickly ate up the spicy sushi rolls, tuna cups, and a nut brownie-type dessert. All was fabulous.

Organic Revolution clothing was very simple, neutral in color, not quite stand outs but high on the organic level. Experts in the beauty industry, hair salon L'Etoile, and several doctors spoke about what they are doing to help promote green and health to all.

On the train awhile ago I snapped this photograph of a gentleman with a slight protruding belly. I took this photo for two reasons.

1. Men should wear their pants at their waistlines and not below. If you do have a belly wear suspenders. Proportion is key to achieving an overall balanced look. Preview your profile from a side angle and you will see what a difference pulling those pants up will make.

2. As mentioned before in previous blogs image is so important. An opinion is formed on someone in a matter of seconds just by looking at what they are wearing. We all have heard the adjectives that people use for someone that is overweight and it isn't pretty.

How does this relate to GREEN? Well, if you follow the guidelines mentioned by all the green experts you will undoubtedly lose weight and look better in your clothing. Eating organic, local food and produce, getting back to nature. Wearing clothing whose fabric source originates from natural sources such as soy and bark.

It will take all of us time to change our ways but slowly changing one thing in your current way of living to being more green is a step in the right direction.

To health, happiness, and everything GREEN!

"I Own the Company"

Every once in awhile you see a fashion trend and say "mmmmm......." Well, the other day I ran into fashion designer Jason Shine. Jason is definitely not the shy type and expresses his personality and style through his clothing choices.

The look he sports in this photograph is different yet catches your attention. Because he has such confidence when he walks there is no mistaken he meant to put these pieces together. He calls the total look "I Own the Company."

A tie over a graphic t-shit? Why? Maybe this is the male version of jewelry, adding some conservative bling, mixing up the usual to make a statement. Will it catch on? Unsure at this point unless there's plenty of men out there that wants to wear a tie with a casual t-shirt.

In this day and age of everyone-looking- for- a- job I would think the majority would wear a tie in its usual manner -- with a collared shirt. I may be wrong but Jason's future trend may be a fad. He may prove me wrong. The entrepreneurial workforce is very laid back and casual so whose to say this may catch on!

Your thoughts--trend or fad?

Boots in the summer time wearing...

I use to think cowboy boots were very fashionable with the right outfit. But you know what happens to fashion once it surpasses the tipping point -- it's not so fashionable any more!

I spotted this young lady at the farmers market wearing a cute sundress and cowboy boots. It was a very hot Saturday with most women wearing sandals or some form of casual footwear.

If it is true your hands and feet are the first to get cold when the weather is cold so is the reverse true? Your feet are hot when the weather is hot; hence the boots must really make you sweat!

This particular look is not so bad because I have seen worse. As noted in my previous blog "Are you Seeing Double", a green silk dress, (a dressy dress by most standards), was also worn with cowboy boots. I love the fact that we can mix-it-up and pair an unexpected accessory with a clothing item.

For example, a denim jacket thrown over a dressy dress or a silk blouse. So unexpected, yet chic, practical, and it works. But does this boot-wearing-in-the-summertime-look really work or is it a fad? A look that maybe won't last long but does make you look twice.

I suggest leaving this boot look for the cooler days; early spring or fall. Invest in and show off all the fantastic sandals that are available from a variety of footwear manufacturers -- Steve Madden is one you should check out.

My advice while the weather is nice -- get a pedicure and show off your feet. Leave the boots for the cooler weather.

One Hot Mess!

Yes, this woman is one hot mess! I didn't see her, nor did I take this photo. My fashionista friend actually snapped this photo for me knowing this individual would spark tons of conversation.

Let's begin by analyzing what is wrong with this picture. First -- just because it's a trend doesn't mean you should employ it. Case in point -- gladiator boots (I think that's what they are?) Totally wrong proportion -- cuts her leg at the fullest part of her calf and the color gold stands out as being cheap and very uncomfortable.

Second -- we should de-emphasize the parts of our body we do not want to call attention to; parts that are considered large. In this case the buttocks, hips, or gluteus maximus is shown in full view and its not a pretty picture. The design of the band on the bottom of the dress increases the emphasis of a full bottom. Totally not the draping effect that is necessary for a full bottom half figure.

Third -- color can make or break you and in this case pink is a negative. Bright, light, and shown against neutrals (black hosiery), the pink color acts an added focus to an already "too many focal points" overall look.

Lastly -- look in the mirror before you leave your house. Front and back views are necessary. I bet if this woman did just that before she left the house she might not be one hot mess!