What's Wrong With This Picture?

Essential Dressing-What's Right!

2012-01-29T22:48:00.000-06:00

I'm a big fan of clustering your clothing. Sometimes called grouping, pyramid concept, or whatever you may call it, the results are the same. Utilizing 10 main pieces in your wardrobe to form outfits that will last 30 days or more.

The latest spring campaign for H&M called Top 10 Essentials is an excellent example of the cluster concept. The colors coordinate, and each piece is unique enough to stand on its own, yet basic enough to be called an essential. I invite you to take a look at their website and explore the 10 pieces. Form your own outfits to see what you come up with; I promise you you'll be surprised at the results.
H&M Top Ten

Enjoy!
Nancy

Trend Time!

2012-01-21T21:28:00.000-06:00

It's that time of the year when fashion forecasters are predicting the spring fashion trends. This may be a dangerous proposition to some; viewing, comparing, and wanting to wear and own everything the model is showcasing down the catwalk.
Animal prints, pastels, peplum, dropped waist, and midsection are a few of the upcoming spring trends.

Midsection - what's wrong with that picture? Individuals that will be flaunting their midsection may not be the best individuals to do so. That body part should be reserved for a select few if you know what I mean. Be extra careful with this trend.

Peplum - defined as "a short flared, gathered, or pleated strip of fabric attached at the waist of a woman's jacket, dress, or blouse to create a hanging frill or flounce." Just what everyone in America needs - more fabric at the waist and hip! Another trend reserved for a select few.

As an average body type, every day individual I take a look at these trends and adapt them to my own fashion personality. A little color, silhouette, and detail from each of these trends can go a long way. If you need help, give me a call. You definitely don't want to be the next fashion disaster!

Enjoy!
Nancy

People's Choice Awards - Wrong & Right

2012-01-14T00:12:00.000-06:00

I wouldn't mind being a celebrity stylist. Currently, I view their red carpet looks to keep abreast of what is considered to be "in style," and focus on finding a less expensive version of the garment here in one of the many Chicago retail locations for my clients.
Glee actor Lea Michele is wearing what I consider a beautiful, unique, white gown by Marchesa. Also, she didn't overdo it with her accessories and hair. She kept it simple to show off the intricate dress.

So many critics are not liking the bright fuschia dress worn by actor Ginnifer Goodwin but I like it. She has a small frame and can carry off the big sleeves without it looking overpowering.

Julianne Hough is beautiful, and has a dancers body that can wear just about anything. The back-less dress I am just not a fan of, even on Julianne. It's just o.k. I'm over the no-back dresses.
I don't know the actor who is wearing the big bow bright yellow dress, but what's wrong with that picture? Enough said, right?

Signature Style, What's Right!

2012-01-08T21:18:00.000-06:00

I so believe that everyone should develop their own unique style I devoted a chapter in my book Your Personal Style to the topic. We are each a unique canvas in which we paint ourselves with our clothing. This is the beginning of our signature style.

I enjoyed reading the article on signature style on Oprah.com. Two of the seven pointers that really stood out to me were: "play to the positive, and have fun." I try to do this every time I get dressed in the morning. It shows in my clothing and the comments I receive help me to justify that what I am doing is right - highlighting who I am!

In this New Year make it a point to develop, highlight, and or continue to show us "you" with your choice of clothing.

Dress for Your Shape and Find Your Signature Style http://www.oprah.com/style/Dress-for-Your-Shape-and-Find-Your-Signature-Style

We're growing together!

The Oprah Team

They Still Call Me Sister

2011-12-29T22:07:00.001-06:00

Get excited - The first of the cozy mystery series of sister sleuths Kathy and Tina is now available through amazon.com (link below)!

They Still Call Me Sister

It's time to absorb yourself in a good mystery book. Buy it, read it, and get caught up in the characters and their lives. Envision how each character is dressed, (of course), and also what celebrity would play each character in the movie version?

I love the city of Chicago. I also love the museums, lakefront and architecture. But one thing Chicago, and many other big cities, is known for is unfortunately violent crime. This photo of Miss Bessie McShane, 1929, showcases a policewoman "dressed to kill." Not the typical cop uniform, but none the less a true fashionista in her own right.

Spread the word about They Still Call Me Sister.

I'll be waiting to hear about your detective outfits, and also your thoughts on the book.

Enjoy!

Nancy

Strong Silhouettes with Trim Tailoring

2011-12-16T11:56:00.000-06:00

According to Chicago magazine the fall/holiday 2011 look for Chicagoans are those with strong silhouettes and trim tailoring. And, for those who dare, fur and leather are always part of your wardrobe selection. Chicago retail locations, Perchance, Macy's, Objets D'Envy, and Nordstrom are a few of the locations that carry these fabulous looks.

Also, voted the best retail location for classic work apparel, Carhartt, in the trendy Wicker Park neighborhood, carries, pants, shirts, cardigans, jackets, and more for men.

We definitely have an assortment of great retail locations to choose from here in Chicago at a variety of price points. Chicago Magazine is one source of inspiration for wardrobe looks, but do choose your own look based on your personality, lifestyle, and of course your budget.

What fashion piece are you investing in this season?

Enjoy,

Nancy

What's Wrong?

2011-12-10T15:35:00.002-06:00

Sometimes we need a little help getting dressed for events. Too little and too much of anything is not good. Too much leg, looking like a diaper. Even though you may have great legs the too short skirt length overpowers the entire ensemble.
The other look- way too much red! Let's not get too matchy- matchy with our clothes and accessories. Don't want to look like a clown.
Remember - fit, color, style, fabric, quality, style, and care! All factors should be taken into consideration!

Enjoy,
Nancy

10 Worst Trends of 2011

2011-12-02T12:04:00.000-06:00

I really like reviewing end of year top ten lists. This one is quite amusing. Perfect for a what's wrong with this picture blog!
I think one thing we can get from the way rappers dress is "are you in a music video?" If not, then why are you walking around like Nicki Minaj?
Click on the link below for the full list. It's interesting to see some of the best dressed celebrities are on this list, yet it's because the trend may be right for them, i.e. Kate Middleton - time, place, etc., but not necessarily for you.
Enjoy!
Nancy

10 Worst Trends of 2011

Pajamas for the Holidays!

2011-11-29T10:19:00.000-06:00

Rachel Zoe posted a photo of Louis Vuitton leopard pajamas on her blog. Similar to Rachel, it has been a tradition in my family to receive a new pair of pajamas as a gift on Christmas morning. LV's price point is $960-$1200. For more information visit www.louisvuitton.com

A less expensive option may be JCrew's vintage pajama set. At $78 this menswear-type pajama looks comfortable and comes in several other colors. www.jcrew.com

Lately, on my days off, I end up wearing my pajamas all day long! Why not invest in great looking pajamas. So this Christmas I would appreciate a great pair of pj's!
Enjoy,
Nancy

Something is Terribly Wrong!

2011-11-20T22:44:00.000-06:00

Martha is not accentuating her figure at all in this dress. Everything is wrong - fit, proportion, color, and even accessories. I can help her - call me Martha!!!

And on another note - Justin & Selena at the AMA Awards. Justin looks like a grown man - literally too old for his age (except for the high-top boots!) An all satin fabric gown has never been a favorite of mine. If you must do satin, just a little of this shiny fabric goes a long way.

Love the purple short dress on Jenny McCarthy but dislike the shoes. Too heavy-looking for this dress and for this festive occasion.
Chaka Khan - love her and her voice but it always looks likes she's hiding something. With all that hair less is more for her dress.
Mary J. Blige - I think I would like this dress better if it was short - too much pattern for a long dress, even with Mary's great figure.

As always - don't forget my wardrobe selection factors:
fit, color, fabric, quality, style, and care!

Enjoy,
Nancy

What to Pack for Thanksgiving Weekend : Lucky Magazine

2011-11-16T17:40:00.001-06:00

What to Pack for Thanksgiving Weekend : Lucky Magazine

5 Wardrobe Must-Haves for Fall

2011-11-09T12:19:00.000-06:00

1. Cableknit Sweater

Brave the brisk fall temperatures by layering a chunky sweater over a simple patterned blouse.

Zara - Cable Stitched Sweater

2. Midi Skirt

Whether it be a pale pastel or a bright pop of color, the key to wearing a midi this fall is detailed accessories.

Anthropologie - Bedford Falls Skirt

3. Sweaterdress

Wear it over tights with boots or heels for a polished everyday look.

J. Crew - Cashmere Tee Dress

4. Cape

Dramatize your fall outfit with a voluminous wool cape or a military-inspired embellished cape.

Milly at Shopbop - Siennea Belted Cape

5. Heeled Booties

Aim for weather resistant booties that can continue to be worn into the snowy winter season.

Madewell - The Prairie Boot

Contributed by Kiernan Yeates

Student at Lake Forest College

Intern for Nancy Plummer

Perfect Fit

2011-10-30T22:27:00.000-05:00

Perfect Fit by Clinton Kelly

PERFECT FIT BY CLINTON KELLY TO DEBUT AT THE ORLAND SQUARE MALL, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4

MEET CLINTON KELLY, THE CO‐HOST OF TLC’s “WHAT NOT TO WEAR” AND ABC’s NEW LIFESTYLE SERIES, “THE CHEW”

THE FIRST 100 PEOPLE TO ATTEND THE GRAND OPENING OF PERFECT FIT WILL RECEIVE A PERSONAL MINI CONSULTATION BY CLINTON KELLY

WHAT: Perfect Fit by Clinton Kelly is launching in Orland Square Mall bringing shoppers a brand new experience in custom tailoring. By fusing expert stylists (Yes - I am one of the stylists!) who are personally trained by Clinton Kelly with skilled tailors, Perfect Fit offers shoppers a unique experience in a boutique setting where they will receive personal style consultations and expert clothing alterations. Whether it is an outfit just bought at the mall – or something that has been sitting in the closet for years – to a bargain bought at a local thrift store – Perfect Fit works with both men and women to transform drab to fab! With the ability to complete alterations on site within hours, the Perfect Fit result is nothing less than fabulous! As part of the Grand Opening Day festivities, Clinton Kelly will be personally providing 100 one‐minute style consultations to the first 100 people who visit Perfect Fit.

WHO: Clinton Kelly is the style expert who has helped nearly 1,000 men and women refine their appearances over the last decade through his work on the hit TLC show, “What Not to Wear.” In September of 2011, Clinton Kelly was also named co‐host of ABC’s new lifestyle series, “The Chew” where he dishes daily on the latest in food, entertaining and lifestyle news.

WHEN: Store opens at 10am. Come early to reserve your time with Clinton Kelly. Consultations start at 5pm

WHERE: The Orland Square Mall, 276 Orland Square, Unit B20, Orland Park, IL

CONTACT: Perfectfit@clintonkelly.com

"If you don't have fit, you don't have style ‐‐ end of story" ‐‐ Clinton Kelly

Black Wedding Gowns

2011-10-25T23:25:00.002-05:00

Popular bridal fashion designer, Vera Wang, is making a bold statement showing black wedding dresses for her fall 2012 fashion show. The wedding industry is loaded with traditions with one common tradition being the color of the dress.
From Godey's Lady's Book, 1949, "Custom has decided, from the earliest ages, that white is the most fitting hue, whatever may be the material. It is an emblem of the purity and innocence of girlhood, and the unsullied heart she now yields to the chosen one."

As time evolves, bride are marrying in a variety of vibrant colors. If we believe in the universal meaning of colors, then black is for death and white is for purity. If this is the guideline for color then should a bride wear black on her wedding day?

Other countries have bridal gowns in colors other than white - China, red for good luck, Africa has colors representing their villages, and Morocco, bright yellow to scare away the evil eye.

I absolutely love the Vera Wang gowns pictured in the photo. Would I wear them on my wedding day? Well, at the speed I'm going I may just have to!

Best,
Nancy

The Cape

2011-10-17T22:09:00.000-05:00

Pendleton Woolen Mills, is a century old Pacific Northwest company.
Photos shown - cape in smoke, $270, and cape in black and tan, $316. These looks are from Need Supply Co., Richmond, Va., Pendleton is the brand.

The classic Pendleton brand fabrics - jacquard patterns - forms the foundation of the looks.
Perfect to wear early fall, the cape is an outerwear item that will spruce up your current wardrobe and add a finished look to your total outfit.
Invest in a cape this fall and you won't be sorry!

Proportion, Color & Fit!

2011-10-11T23:46:00.001-05:00

What's Right!
Stacie, a Top Shop employee, is doing all the right things with her clothing choices. Proportion is just right for her small body frame, and the color combination is fantastic - neutral gray and hot pink. Color is added to the bottom area to add depth to the smallest part of her body, her lower torso. For a finishing touch, her jewelry choices, silver necklace and bracelet, is not too overpowering, yet does provide pizazz to the entire outfit. A simple Mary Jane shoe completes the look.

What's Wrong!
On the same day another young lady had difficulty with proportion. A lot of women love to wear shorts, and now the look seen on the streets is wearing tights with shorts. But that does not mean if your wear tights then your shorts can be shorter! The proportion in the shorts photo is way off. Her lower torso is not elongated at all with this look, and overall it makes her appear very short. The neutrality of the colors she is wearing - dark green and black - does not provide an exciting, visual presence to her entire outfit. The handbag is too large for her small body frame. You visually notice the handbag and the size of the bag because of it's light color against the dark background of her clothing.

Proportion, color, and fit are three keys to a unified look. Ask yourself if you feel and look long and lean. does color enhance and add a positive impact to your wardrobe, and do you feel and look comfortable in your clothing? Remembering these three words and your total look will always shine.

Best,
Nancy

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2011-10-06T22:36:00.002-05:00

"The groundbreaking original movie “Five” is an anthology of five short films exploring the impact of breast cancer on people’s lives. “Five” highlights the shared experience each short film’s title character endures from the moment of diagnosis, through an interconnected story arc that uses humor and drama to focus on the effect breast cancer and its different stages of diagnosis have on relationships and the way women perceive themselves while searching for strength, comfort, medical breakthroughs and, ultimately, a cure. Directed by Jennifer Aniston, Alicia Keys, Demi Moore, Independent Spirit Award winner Patty Jenkins (“Monster”) and Penelope Spheeris (“Wayne’s World”). " Debuting on Monday, October 10, at 9/8c, this is a movie we all should see.

There are many retailers participating in events or specials for breast cancer awareness month, but one in particular that I like is Nordstrom.

"As part of the Nordstrom Fits America campaign, the high-end retailer provides complimentary bra fittings from certified experts for women nationwide. Nordstrom will also donate $1 of every bra purchased at fittings, with participating bra manufacturers also pitching-in $1."

So ladies go to Nordstrom's this month and get your bra fitting! We all know that more than 50% of you are wearing the wrong size bra.

I will also offer a 20% discount for my personal shopping services to get a bra fitting and assist in purchasing a new bra.

Mention this blog posting and send me an email for an appointment at nancy@finethreadschicago.com

Hope to hear from you soon!

The First Lady at Target

2011-10-01T22:05:00.000-05:00

Impressions - Image - Assumptions

Our first lady Michelle Obama recently went shopping at her local Target store and didn't get recognized until she was checking out and getting ready to leave the store.

Dressed casually and wearing a baseball cap and sunglasses I still feel she looks like Michelle Obama. We, as a country, are so used to seeing her "dressed", so we say, even if it is a casual event she is attending. I don't blame her for getting out and having a little retail therapy. Sometimes ordering online is just not fun. She is normal and doing normal things. She is also a "young" first lady so photographers snap at anything that appears to be "out-of-the-norm" for first ladies.

As an image consultant I am always aware of how people perceive me. My business is based upon first impressions and making people look good. Sometimes you just want to dress down and not be bothered with all the fuss and stuff. But, when you know your the first lady, an image consultant, or any other occupation whose looks are judged, be prepared. As I say in my book Your Personal Style - remember to emphasize the positive and de-emphasize the negative. I assume for our first lady her hair was a mess and this trip to Target was going to be quick and fast - no one will see me! But that's what we get for assuming, right?

I think Michelle Obama is great! Dress down or up I'll take her either way!

Enjoy,

Nancy

The Power of Black

2011-09-27T23:09:00.000-05:00

The power of the color black - denotes, wealth, power, confidence, and sophistication. Black clothing recently featured in the store windows at Ralph Lauren and Zara on Michigan Avenue, and on display inside the Macy's State Street store. So popular and never out of style.

Wearing all black tends to slenderize the body frame and therefore makes you look slimmer. Some individuals wear nothing but black at all times. I love color so when I do wear all black it is definitely noticed!

Analyze the clothing items in your closet that is black. Do you wear these items often? If so, then make sure they all are investment pieces. The quality, fabric, style is top notch. Otherwise, even black clothing can look dated and worn out.

Until next time,

Nancy

Dress to Flatter Your Figure

2011-09-25T20:42:00.003-05:00

Dress to Flatter Your Figure
Click on the link above for photos and comments from Real Simple Magazine.

Consistently I have said dress to accentuate the positive and de-emphasize the negative. Look at the parts of your body that you usually receive compliments, and parts you know that make you a standout amongst the crowd. Everyone has them - the good parts. It could be your legs, a tiny waist, great arms (like our First Lady), or just a pretty face. Whatever it is, you've got to move the viewers eye toward your best part or parts.

Dressing to flatter your figure does just that. It showcases the good parts, what we like best about ourselves.

Real Simple magazine lists a variety of tips and clothing options that will lead you in the right direction to flatter your figure. It really isn't rocket science. Just attention to who you are, and what you want others to see.

Look through your closet and see which clothing items you usually wear. Are they comfortable? Unique? Trendy? Or is it all of these adjectives?

Clothing that flatters your figure does it all. You feel good and look good. Not only do you know it, but others do too.

Enjoy,

Nancy

Rips & Tears Everywhere, Oh My!

2011-09-09T21:25:00.000-05:00

Strategically placed rips in denim, done on purpose, should be left up to the professionals. It isn't pretty or attractive to see your underwear, (even if it is bright pink).

I own a pair of ripped denim jeans and paid a lot of money for them. But quality even applies to torn denim. Some individuals take fashion trends too literally and believe this look is fashionable no matter which way it's worn.

I have five wardrobe principles that should be applied to all clothing items. These are:
Fit, quality, color, fabric, and care. In the case of the individual in this photo, the quality is not evident. A once good pair of jeans is now an old pair of jeans, and should only be worn at home for your eyes only, (if at all).
It's worth repeating - look in the mirror before you leave the house, front and back views. If you question what you see, and all the answers to the wardrobe principles are poor, then take it off.

Let's work on looking our absolute best at all times - not just sometimes!

Enjoy!

Oh, it's Marilyn Monroe!

2011-08-28T21:40:00.000-05:00

Have you seen the 26-ft tall Marilyn Monroe statue in Pioneer Court yet? Yes, this is a tourist attraction created by artist J. Seward Johnson, and it will be on display until next spring, so you do have time to check it out. The statue shows Marilyn in her Seven Year Itch pose when a gust of wind blows her skirt up.

I, of course, was checking out the dress! It looked so real; all the details with the pleats and folds. Classic and timeless in style, (even the panties), you would never know the movie was made in 1955!

Oh Marilyn! That hourglass figure, fabulous dress and heels, makes Marilyn an everlasting, true fashion icon.

A toast to Marilyn!

How Short is Too Short?

2011-08-26T10:48:00.000-05:00

Yes...summer time! Hot weather and tine for short shorts. How short is too short?
Know your body type, and of course a proper fit is essential!

The long & lean and fit & curvy individuals have a variety of short lengths to choose from. The more wide and/or physically challenged your body type is, wear a longer length, wider width short.
It will only make your legs look lean and trim as opposed to short and wide.

The fabulous Real Simple magazine showcases a variety of shorts for all types of body shapes.
Fashion designer Donna Karan has a medium denim length short perfect for the hour glass figure and for many other body shapes. Not too clingy or too short.

Enjoy the end of summer, but wear your shorts selectively! Not too short of course!

Shorts For Every Shape

Hair - Your Crowning Glory!

2011-08-21T15:09:00.000-05:00

Don't ever leave your house with a head full of rollers!

A first impression is difficult to change.

There are myriads of looks this woman could have achieved that would have given her a fantastic image than the extra minutes she had traveling with rollers in her head.

Think twice before doing this look!

A tousled braid to the side, a headband, or even a twisted up-do will do the trick. InStyle Magazine showcased easy summer hairstyles on their website. Popular celebrities are the models. These looks are very easy to do without a stylist and look fabulous. I have hair issues a lot, but make sure I have my stock of headbands and hats to complete my total look.

Your hairstyle completes your overall look and contributes to your total package. No matter how expensive the clothing you are wearing, the footwear or other accessories, what's on top of your head is a major accessory. The weave and wig business is huge and will always be. Why? Because most of us can't afford a daily stylist nor have the time to really spend on our hair. Invest in a great, easy-to-style-for hair cut and you will undoubtedly look your best all, (or at least most), of the time.

Enjoy your hair!

Glam Outifts for a Glamorama Event

2011-08-14T23:33:00.000-05:00

Macy's annual Glamorama event featuring fashion from top designers, music from the best bands and hot artists, and of course drinks, plenty of food, and fun activities at the after party, makes it the place to be if you are a fashion lover. It doesn't hurt that a portion of your monetary donation, ranging from $50 to over $200, benefits a wonderful charity - Ronald McDonald House.

So how do Chicagoans dress for this type of glamorous affair? If you look at the photos the majority of the ladies wore their version of a cocktail dress. Micro minis, one shoulder, glitz and shine! Shoes were high heel pumps, strappy sandals and yes boots! Ohhhh...still too soon for me. I know this is the look, dressy dress and boots, but I'm sure, soon, we will have plenty of time to wear our boots.

I decided to wear my Rami Kashou one shouldered gold dress with high heel sandals. Not too cocktail-like, yet appropriate, comfortable, and definitely in style.

This photo shows two men wearing Sebastian Grey suits, (at least that's what I've been told). Trendy, fashionable, and bold. Way to go!

All in all I really didn't see too many fashion mistakes. Most people in attendance did their best to look their best, and that's all we can ask for, right?
Keep it up Chicagoans! We are in style!

Enjoy!

Bright lips!

2011-08-07T20:42:00.000-05:00

Bright lips are the latest trend for fall 2011. This is so exciting! I say let's start this trend now!

Lips are the perfect accent to a classic, monotone, borderline, boring outfit. The face is the personality area and the focus of YOU! Lip colors should accent your skin tone just like your clothing should accent your total look.

Choose lip colors that will complement your skin tone - warm colors like the sun or cool colors like the sky. Should you wear a cherry red or an orange-red? Experiment to see which is best. Seek help or assistance from a color specialist to get your signature shade. But whatever you do, wear a bright lip color.

Enjoy,

Nancy

TOMS Shoes

2011-07-27T20:25:00.000-05:00

"With every pair you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need. One for One."

What's Right?

I'm wishing every woman who is still wearing their gym shoes as walking shoes with their work clothes to invest in a pair of TOMS. The glitter category of women's shoes are my favorites.

Comfort, chic, and a company that believes in giving back, check out their website for further information, http://www.toms.com/

Come on Chicago let's get fashionable! No more gym/tennis shoes with your work clothes!

Let me know if you decide to get a pair of TOMS. By the way, the gold glitter is sold out! Oh no! My coloring really works well with gold so I may have to wait until they are re-stocked. In the meantime, there are plenty of solid colors and various styles available for all.

Until next time!
Nancy