Shopping Tips

When I see people dressed in hideous clothes that look all wrong on them, I try to imagine the moment when they were buying them and thought, "This is Great, I'll Take it."   - Andy Warhol

That is one of my all time favourite quotes! 

As an Image Consultant and Personal Stylist, women often hire me to go shopping with them. Hiring a Personal Shopper is different than taking a best friend shopping with you, or worse, depending on the advice of salespeople! Often, your friends are swayed by their own personal tastes or their biased view of you, and salespeople are often just looking to make a commission. If you are not going to hire a Personal Shopper though, I recommend shopping by yourself and tuning out the salespeople, and of course, following my Top 10 shopping tips.

The Rule of 3: When making any new purchase, make sure you know of 3 different ways you can wear it with your current wardrobe.

Know your limit: No one needs 10 pairs of jeans or a dozen sundresses. If you already have a similar item in your wardrobe, just say"No."

Shop Happy: Never shop when you are feeling depressed, it never turns out well.

Invest in everyday items: When I say everyday items, I mean things that you would wear EVERY DAY. Like a coat, shoes or boots, and a handbag. The super stylish know that those pieces can make or break your entire look, and since you are wearing/using them everyday, quality is key - so buy the best you can afford.

Be trend thrifty: It seems so obvious but I have done enough Wardrobe Audits in my day to know it's not so common sense. Save your money on the trendy pieces -fashion and trends are so fast moving. That trend you just blew a paycheck on is going to be over before you know it. Don't get me wrong, trends are important, they show that you are current. You just don't need all of them, and you shouldn't be spending alot on them either. Save your money for the "EVERY DAY" items mentioned above, and use what's left in your shopping budget to pick up a few trendy pieces you won't be heartbroken to get rid of at the end of the season. 

Plan it out: Heading to the shops blindly without any sort of plan is a recipe for disaster and overspending. First, make a budget and stick to it. Second, go though magazines beforehand and tear out looks that appeal to you or you would like to mimic. And lastly, if you need something to go with pieces already in your wardrobe, take those pieces with you to try on with new items you are considering buying.

Dress for comfort: Wear clothes that are easy to slip on and off. Nothing makes shopping more exhausting than having to get in and out of clothing that involves tucking in, buttoning, belting, or lacing up. This doesn't mean you should wear your beat up sweatshirt, old jeans, and running shoes though. We know you still get better service when you are dressed well, so go for something like a cute slip dress and sandals and in the colder months, a pair of leggings with a cute sweater and boots.

Wash & Wear: We all know how harsh those dressing room lights can be,so make sure you wash and style your hair and wear makeup...you will look and feel much better when trying everything on. You can put on the most gorgeous blouse, but if you have dirty hair and no make up on, you'll never be able to judge accurately whether or not the top works for you.

The fit factor: If a piece isn't flattering to your figure, or is uncomfortable and you are already fussing with it in the dressing room, do not get it. Now, I do have to mention here, there are exceptions to this. If you find the most amazing dress, but the straps or the hem are too long, those are things that can easily be fixed with the help of a seamstress. The same goes for pants. For example, if you finally find the most amazing pair of jeans that fit you in all the right places but they're maybe too big in the waist, buy them! Taking in a waist is such an easy alteration. When it comes to looking your best and making less expensive items look pricier, alterations are the rule, not the exception.

Don't be sale stupid: The last, but maybe the most important rule. Just because something is on sale, doesn't make it a bargain. If if doesn't suit your figure, complexion, personal style, or go with anything else in your wardrobe - you will never wear it. How much of a deal is that?

Style Flare: How to wear the wide leg trend

With 70`s style remaining a strong focus of the Fall 2011 season, wide leg pants are sure to become of staple of many wardrobes this year. Check out this posting I found on the Refinery 29 site that includes some great tips on how to wear this style.

GLAM it up!

The Glam trend is hot for this season, but how do you do it without looking like you are overdressed, or worse, like you are still wearing your outfit from the night before???

Here how to go Glam for daytime...

1) Embellishments - More subtle, less Minelli. Something like this Silk bead-embellished tank dress would be so cute for date with a pair of simple metallic flats.

2) A little bit of shine goes a long way - Whether it's sheen or sparkly, just keep it to a minimum. A little sparkle in a neutral colour gives a menswear inspired suit a much needed feminine update.

3) Bling It Up - When in doubt, some seriously eye popping accessories (like a purse, shoes, or jewellery), are the easiest way to go GLAM in a flash.

Summer 2010 Sportswear

The Sportswear trend.

It was all over the runway this year as a hot Spring/Summer 2010 trend. But no, we are not talking baggy sweats or Lululemon loungewear. Think more Tomboy Chic or Dancing Diva.

Some tips from the Practical Fashionista on how to take it from the Runway to Real Life...

- cut off t-shirts
- jersey and mesh fabrics
- sporty looking high heels like the ones pictured above
- and if you are really brave, a one piece body suit with a pleated tunic over top

 Come on, be a sport and try at least one of them out!

Summer Trend - The Wide Belt

One of the hottest, and least expensive (YEAH!) ways to update your look this season is with a wide belt.

So H-O-T this summer, a wide belt looks great with everything from a cute summer sundress to a fitted tunic with shorts.

And since they are so inexpensive, you could always splurge and buy a few in different colours and styles for even more looks!

Eccentric Style

It's a definite "look" that was all over the runways for Spring/Summer 2010. From crazy layering, to unique hats, to wild embellishments and off beat styles.

But how do you do eccentric style without loking crazy or like you are running away to join the circus? The best rule is to pick one statement, own it, and keep everything else simple. Some examples...

1) Mix your prints. Pair a floral skirt with a pin striped dress shirt. Just make sure they are both in the same tone and colour family.

2) Use accessories. Pair a simple and solid coloured shift dress with a funky statement shoe and lots of bold jewellery.

The Romper

It's not a Spring 2010 trend anyone can wear...but should you decide to don the Romper (aka, a short jumpsuit)...a couple of tips.

1) To avoid looking childish or costume like, look for a Romper in a grown up neutral colour like black, navy, khaki, or grey. You can add colour later with your accessories.

2) Continuing with the whole "avoiding a childish look" theme...keep the style simple.So no ruffles, lace, or embellishments.

3) When it comes to fabric, something with some hold is best. Think built in bustiers, and stiffer fabrics. In other words, no terry, velvet, or jersey.

The Jegging

They've been in style for a little while now, but they are sticking around for Spring 2010. For some of you, this may be great news, others may be wishing it was long gone. I'm talking about the "Jegging". The jean-legging. Here, some notes on how to wear them...

1) Treat them as you would leggings...That means worn under long tops and jackets that cover your bottom. No short tops allowed!

2) For the most flattering/safe look, get a pair in a dark wash. If you wouldn't wear white pants, you're not going to like white/light coloured leggings. Plus, the darker they are, the more sophisticated looking.

3) If you want to go all out and be the "fashionista", go for a distressed, tie-dyed, or acid wash jegging.

Pretty Pastels

A big trend this seaons is pastels. Whether it's in your clothing or your make-up...these soft colours are big this year! From lavender and pistachio, to rose and butter yellow...there is a colour for every complection.
When it comes to clothing, a cool look is to pair your pastels with neutrals. Think lavendar with tan, rose with grey, or pistachio with white.

For make up, pastels generally work better on lighter complections. But if you have a darker complection and want to get in on the trend, just go for more saturated version of the same colours. But if you have a warmer complection, stay away from the pinks, and go with a peach instead.

Boudoir Style

It was all over the runway this year, and a big trend this season...boudoir style (AKA lingerie inspired looks). Now, not that you are going to go out of the house dressed like one of the models above, but when done properly, boudoir style can look gorgeous. Make one mistake though and you risk looking trashy. Here, how to do it with class...

1) Do only one lingerie inspired look at a time. Go with the bustier, the lace tights, or a fitted silk/satin skirt...just don't do it all at once.

2) Pair the sexier pieces with more toned down masculine and neutral pieces. For example, (a) wear a bustier or camisole with a pantsuit, or (b) a fitted silky skirt with a simple button down shirt and flats.

3) If you want to do lace, think accent pieces like lace leggings with a covered up style dress, lace details on a top, shoes with lace on them, or a lace embellished purse. Remember, a little lace goes a long way!

Spring Hair Trends

As seen on the runways, here are the Practical Fashionista's picks for the top hair trends for Spring 2010...

1) Silky Straight - You'll need a straightening iron for this one, so just make sure you use some sort of thermal spray-on protector ahead of time to keep your hair silky, not scorched.

2)Braids - Whether it's a long one to the side, a high pony braid, or a braided fringe (see above), braids are still hot this year!

3) Waves - More messy and carefree this year, think beachy instead of glamourous. Use your flat iron for this look too, or put some braids in the night before and voila...instant beach bombshell the next morning.

Not for the wall flower!

Bold jeans...they are a hot trend this season. From tie-die to really bright colours, they are not the easiest look to pull off. But if you are dying to get in on the trend, here's how.

1) Choose a skinny to straight leg. A tie-dye or bright jean in any other style will just look dated instead of daring.

2) Because the jeans are such a stand out item, when it comes to your top, less is more. Pair these eye catching jeans with a simple neutral coloured top, add some fun accessories (necklaces, bag, shoes) to complement the jeans, and you are set!

"Springing" for some new clothes

With Spring just around the corner, no doubt, you're going to want to spring (get it? Spring? Okay, maybe it's not that clever...HA HA) for some new clothes. But rathar than heading out to the stores where you'll be tempted by all of the new and shiny items, and risking some serious debt because you "have to have it all"...let me offer you a tip for budget friendly shopping. It's called a Wardrobe Audit. Now, of course it's best to hire a professional (like myself) to help you with this, but if that is too much to invest right now, you can do your own version.

1) Set aside a few hours to give your wardrobe a quick once over and grab a pen and paper
2) Grab some of your favorite pieces (items that fit well, and are still in good condition)
3) Put together outfits using those items
4) While putting the outfits together, makes notes of what you need to complete each outfit and add it to your "shopping list"
For example, maybe you have a few cute tops in a multitude of colours, and some fun shoes to match them all, but need some bottoms. So, make a note to get some skirts and pants in neutral colours that will go with all of those tops and shoes...making a variety of outfits. Or maybe you have a bunch of dresses, but no shoes to go with them. Try to find a common colour theme in those dresses or go with a neutral to match them all. I'll use myself as an example...

I have a solid royal blue dress, a solid soft purple dress, and a multi coloured (purple, blue, yellow) geometric print dress. So, because I have a Creative Personality Style, I plan on looking for a pair of yellow heels to go with all of them. But for someone not as flashy, they could go with a metallic shoe.

5) Lastly, if you want to add some "fashion forward" to your look...think accessories

When it comes to trends, the least expensive way to follow them is with accessories. For example, "Future Warrior" is a big trend for Spring 2010 (see post below), so maybe look for a fun belt or shoes to pair with your new outfits.

Happy Spring Shopping!

Spring into Style!

The official start of a new season is almost here! Which means it’s time to put some “Spring” in your step, and your wardrobe. So, what is the “look” for Spring 2010? Think classic with lots edge and a bit of sex appeal. Which of course is fine for the runways…but what about real life? Here, some of the top trends for Spring 2010 and the Practical Fashionista’s suggestions on how to make them work for you.


1. The Merging of Military and Tribal fashion
What it is: It’s being referred to as “Future Warrior”. On the runway it was metal plating accents on jackets and leggings, studded straps on tops, and skirts that look like loincloths.
How to do it: Kick the metal plating to the curb in a pair of gladiator sandals. They are back in style and have been given an update with embellishments and bright new colours…the perfect “real life” way to get in on the Future Warrior trend.
2. Printed and Patterned Pants
What it is: Exactly as it sounds. From stripes to abstact patterns and florals, printed and patterned pants were everywhere on the runways.
How to do it: First of all, if you are trying to detract attention from your lower half, avoid this look. If you don’t have a problem with it though, just make sure to stick to a tailored cut in order to avoid a costume like look. For a clean look, pair with a simple, solid coloured top. Still too much? Save the flashy prints and patterns (which are H-O-T this season) for a dress.
3. The Trench
What it is: Not quite a “trend” since it is such a classic, the trench coat is still a “go to” for classic Fashionista’s everywhere. But this year, designers are encouraging you to take it up a notch when it comes to your trench.
How to do it: Ditch the classic trench and go for a cropped version, one in a bright colour, or one with super feminine details like ruffles.

Not so hot...

Some current trends the Practical Fashionista says are "not so hot".

The vintage fur coat...not only does it look gross, it probably smells it too.

Doc Martens...I didn't like them then, so I definitely have no love for them now.

The granny dress...all I have to say is, ICK! *fashionista Katie Holmes can't even make it work

Choosing your trends wisely...

I am about to let you in on a little secret...no one person can wear EVERY trend. Well, I guess technically they can, but it's not going to be pretty. So, today's post is some simple advice. When new trends come out, take a closer look to determine which ones will work for you. If you have thicker legs, leggings or skinny jeans might not be your best look. If you are busty, you might want to avoid a full boho inspired top.

If you're confused about what will or won't work for you, that's okay. Here's a tip...simply pick the trend(s) that will highlight one or two of your favorite features, and put the most attention there. Whether it be a cut or style that amplifies it, a brighter colour or fun pattern, or adding some shine...show your assets off and you'll always look (and feel) stylish!

Brighten Up!

It's SO popular this season! But how do you wear neon's without looking like you fell back into the 80's? The key is pairing it with neutrals.

Have fun with a pop of neon pink, orange, or green (whichever looks best with your skin tone) by wearing it with black, camel, or grey. As long as everything else is simple and toned down, you'll avoid looking like a highlighter.

What's your bag personality??

I am an accessories girl. Shoes, belts, jewellery, scarves, handbags, you name it! But your choice of handbag can make or break your outfit, and with so many trends this year in the handbag department, how do you choose? One way is to pick the bag that matches your personality.

Here, four of the top styles this year, and the personality best suited for them.

The Girly girl

For the woman who loves to flaunt her femininity, check out this years super romantic style bags. From ruffles, to bows, to flowers, there is something for everyone.

The Classic

Think classic with a twist. From hardware like shiny bold buckles, rings, and chain links mixed with classic shaped styles. Perfect for those who value elegance but like to be fashion forward at the same time.

Boho Chic

You probably love flowy clothes, chunky knits, and beading. Mirror your style with one of this years textured handbags, like a weaved leather satchel or chunky knit hobo.

The Drama Queen

For you, more is more! So, make a statement this year with a hot animal print bag, or anything shiny and/or sparkly.

Style Lesson 1

For the first day of the 30 day Practical Fashionista Back to Style School posts, I’m going to do a sort of “review” of last years trends that are still HOT.

The Wide Belt…For tips on how to wear it, check out my previous post, “Buckle Up”.

Boyfriend Jeans…The baggy jean is sticking around for another season. Make it new and ultra feminine by pairing with an animal print or red heel (two big trends this season).

Baring one shoulder….Whether in a dress or top, this look is still big this year. No matter your age or size, shoulders are always sexy!

Lace…As a top or tights, lace is a great flirty accent to add to the menswear inspired designs you’ll be wearing this year.

Surreal to Real - The "Fur" Vest

Runway shows and glossy photo spreads in magazines are great for showcasing the upcoming fashion trends, but are unrealistic for the real world. My “Surreal to Real” postings are where I profile a hot trend shown on the runways, and show you how to wear it in real life…making you a fashion vixen, not a fashion victim. This week…the fur (or faux fur) vest.