Never fear, Kat is here!

Hey there, StyleWise Guys and Fellow Fashionistas!

We certainly have a LOT of catching up to do, don't we?

First off, an excitement new development here on Planet Style.....we have an upcoming Style event kids!
Live and in person to serve my dear readers, free of charge at a store (TBA) near you.....ever want a professional stylist's time, just not have to pay the customary $240.00 day rate?

That's the benefit of having having a Kat in your closet.....I'm going to announce a listing of participating stores and times--if you're there, I'm yours (sartorially speaking of course). We can go over what's hot now, what trends work for your shape/style and best of all? We'll do it on a bargain budget.....I know, sounds too good to be true right? Au contra ire, Mon amis! As one of your very dear and close friends, it's my gift to you!

.....stay tuned for the location, date and time!

There's reasons for having a style guide with you:

1. Sometimes we get caught up in individual pieces, not thinking how an item might fit into our overall lifestyle and personal style. Better yet, it can help.....GET YOU OUT OF THAT RUT!! Some of us get caught up in a style rut; a place we've grown comfortable with that's "ok" or is less than what we want to be (and you know who you are too).....here's the test. Grab a picture of you from 7 years ago--if you're seeing the same clothes or type of clothes, it's a RUT. Don't even ask me if it looks the same from ten years ago--you need to call/email/smoke signal me.....really......seriously.....before it's too late. The worst part of a rut is it's aging--keep that in mind ladies. If you're 26 and you own pieces from when you were like, so grown up at 16.....you need me. If you're 46, and you're trying to dress like you're in your 20's, nothing else screams "I'm trying too hard" any louder. No matter your age, dress it--be only who you are...............you are FANTASTIC!! XOXO

2. I'm guaranteeing you I WILL pick items you're not used to considering; and that's the whole point! If you're wearing dark colors all the time, we going to try some color and print (no, I won't let you look like a couch, I promise). If you wear short skirts, then gals, the word of the day will be (say it with me): trousers!
Guys, if you're super casual but there's a first date or a job interview coming up, you need me. I don't mean stuffy either; if you're not comfortable, it'll show (trust me, girls notice EVERYTHING--sorry dudes, but 'maybe she won't notice' is never true.....she notices, she just won't say anything).

3. Lastly, we have the Big One--Life Changes!! A new job, a new school, a promotion at work, a pregnancy (both during and after), a vacation, a presentation, or just to mix things up a bit and get noticed when looking for someone special. Standing out in a positive way can (and will) give you strength!

Case in point, our lovely Mom-to-be model, Rekita our Urban Poetess. It's easy to think that you can't find cute things when you're expecting, which is why thinking outside the box becomes so important. I say go for pieces that work with the baby and after the baby--clothes are an investment, after all! Choose wisely......
You'll notice from the looks below, the point is never to hide that you're bun is still on bake--revel in it, be beautiful just like today's model!

Now here comes the style advice!

Bl

The pops of color over the neutral top and pant are so now--notice what blue does for her eyes--and I still cannot believe these gorgeous purple Vince Camuto flats (under $30.00, no joke). In fact, nothing in these pictures was over $30.00, and some items were under $20.00!

Blue really is her color! Throw in a funky studded emerald bag and the most adorable southwestern patterned flat I've ever seen--there's a strip of faux leather piping down the side of the trouser leg too, for some added edge!

I love this look so much for work!! The great low kitten heel in a color block of neutral, comfort and style! We have our faux leather piped pant again, and this time we change the whole look--it says "Authority"....why? The bold use of the blue print, the chocolate leather jacket and the red bag, along with the sophistication of the shoe add up to a polished look that isn't fussy or uncomfortable. See how young and fresh she looks?

This dress is perfect--not only do the colors and stretch make this a comfy option, but this look just screams "Lady". The bold red bag adds color to the neutral tones, but anything in a jewel tome would work--emerald, blue, even gold.


Stay tuned for the date/time and location of my in store event; I look forward to seeing you there!

Well, I say we call it a night Guys and Dolls! Next post, we have one of my favorite subjects--shoes, on the cheap!!
That's all for now kids! Goodnight, and good dress! XO

Style Spotlight: Someware In Tine (Style meets Re-purposing!)

Good evening again, StyleWise Guys and Fellow Fashionistas!
It's time for yet another one of Kat's Style Spotlights; today, we have:

Someware In Tine--Vintage Silverware Creations
PO Box 4032
Georgetown CA 95634
phone: 530-457-7028
online: www.somewareintine.com
email: somewareintine@gmail.com

Not only is this some of the most creative use of old silver, it's also strikingly lovely and unique--I stood there at least ten minutes scouring the displays, trying to see if I could find pieces that all had the same imprint.
Lovely row after lovely gleaming row of silver beckoned from every corner of the tent.

Glinting in the sunlight were rings, earrings, necklaces, hair accessories, bracelets, napkin rings, windchimes--basically, a girls paradise, all beautifully appointed and arranged. (If you know someone who's into cooking/baking, how great a gift would those dangly fork earrings be?) Stock up on a few pieces for yourself, or stash a couple in a drawer to grab as last-minute Hostess gifts!

This is an example of how a unique find can make an outfit really shine--low cost and lovely! Check out the delicate pink ring I scored for only $20.00!

Of course, I had to meet the woman behind this brilliant madness--eclectic as her art, and friendly too! Right on hand to answer questions--none of the 'mystery booth' treatment.....we've all had that experience at a craft fair--the booth is there, but be damned if you can find the proprietor anywhere. (Or my personal favorite, being flat out ignored.) She even made certain to check my ring was the right fit for my finger, directing me to shake my hand. The adjustment needed was only slight, but quality was obviously of the utmost importance for her. (In case you're reading this Dollface, thanks for the lovely ring--been getting lots of compliments and: "Is that cutlery??"--awesome!!)

Well StyleWise Guys and Fellow Fashionistas, that's all for now--just a quick nibble this evening (Kat needs her beauty sleep......come to think of it kids, you do too--hit the hay 'fer cryin' out loud, or you'll look terrible tomorrow)....

Goodnight, and Good Dress.......

Shaken, Not Stirred Fashion Event--Designer: Caren Templet

Welcome once again, StyleWise Guys & Fellow Fashionistas!

If you haven't had the privilege to be dazzled by the designs of British designer Caren Template, prepare to be stunned! Today's event was held in El Dorado Hills at the Serrano Visitor's Center (4525 Serrano Parkway, El Dorado Hills, CA), benefiting The Boy's & Girl's Club of El Dorado County. This means not only was today fun, it was for a great and worthy cause.

See? Style really can help save the world!

I'm stopping here to give Caren a shout out; despite her obvious talent, there was no trace of the artist's aloofness to her. A stunning woman herself, her warm smile and friendly demeanor were in keeping with the obvious class of her designs. If you'd like to be struck by her lovely designs in person, her boutique is located at: 1801 L Street, Suite 80, Sacramento CA 95811. (P. 916-376-7361, or online at carentemplet.com).:

The runway was simple, and despite finding the show was on grass (my heels aerated their lawn quite well, I'm certain), it was the prefect day for being outdoors. There was a slight breeze, the champagne and dirty martinis were complimentary (me+having my credit card+champagne=having some serious 'splaining to do to the Husband......chuckle.......I was good though and didn't buy anything).

You can never go wrong with a basic Michael Kors bag in a jewel toned hue--a friend at the fashion show was sporting this little number, and I was sooo jealous!! This bag would look great with some of the graphite leather you're about to see and drool over.

Above we have one of the season's biggest trends, the statement necklace--this piece would look great with any of the outfits on Caren Templet's runway.....


The theme of the show was 'Shaken, not Stirred', and let me tell you--shaken was the reaction from the audience. Over and over again there were audible gasps at the simple beauty and flowing lines. Juxtaposition seemed key--along with form fitting shapes, the silhouettes would also have sweeping, luxurious necklines.

No more build up, because believe me, these ensembles are impressive--everything from evening wear, office wear, and last but NEVER least: pop-my-husband's-eyes-out-of-his-head wear.

Style Alert! Note the colors--huge this season are note only shades of graphite and oxblood, also note the shoes. Metal capped toes and one of my personal favorites: the shoe-bootie.

 

 Here we have proof--models look beautiful and aloof just standing around--and check out the rides they're leaning on! (I didn't mention it, but I was sure all those sequins rubbing against those paint jobs was not the greatest thing for those cars!)

Now that we have an excellent view of what's hot now in NorCal, next order of business? Getting you crazy kids ready for Fall!! Ladies, we'll cover the latest trends from military to bold patterns, this Fall is not for the faint of heart! Fellas, we need to get some snaz in your threads before it gets too cold; just like the Ladies print is in for the Gents........
Never fear, Kat is here! We'll go over the best of Fall, and how the best of Fall can go wrong to avoid any fashion fumbles.
That's all for now, StyleWise Guys & Fellow Fashionistas!
Good night, and Good Dress....
Kat

Style Alert! Kat's Most Recent Aquisitions...

Hey now, StyleWise Guys & Fellow Fashionistas!

Some news!
TJ Maxx now has an online presence; no more excuses then! From home you can pick how to beat that  dreaded, terminal case of the schlepps! Hit up the internet Guys and Gals, and banish the blues with an array of Fall inspired oranges and deep forest greens. (TIP: when shopping online, no matter what store you peruse, hit the 'clearance'/'on sale' section first--tell the sort results, for example: clearance/women's dresses/sort by: price/lowest to highest. This ensures you see the best deals first on that dress you're looking for--guys, just substitute 'dress' for Men's 'slacks', 'shirts', 'boots', 'hats', whatever you find you need for Fall.)

Now, for a few of my latest scores for Fall. These include the stylings of Gucci and Two Lips.
This brings me to one of my very favorite style points--cost effective is not only savvy, it's an adrenaline rush!
I don't know about you kids, but I bust my lil' tail for the money I make--I earn it in every sense of the word. So, if you're like me and you work as hard as I do, then not only do you deserve the best, you deserve the best at bargain prices.

Here I have something any girl would love, including me--and including me, most of my readers/clients/friends/family could not afford......a Gucci bag with an emerald green leather trim, just in time for Fall's color palette! (For the 20th time Dear Readers, emerald and forest green are big right now--watch for it everywhere!) How much you ask? Why, $16.00!:

Next we have a handmade bag; the card on the interior is not only signed by the designer, but also shows a note that says each bag is unique--as in, one of a kind. The lining is a soft bubble gum pink, and the fringe around the top edge is reminiscent of the 70's and luxurious shag carpet. (It truly does feel like carpeting--it's not faux fur or some god awful strip of ratty acrylic, merely a bunch of dense, closely grouped and contrasting threads.) How much was this one of a kind bit of funky carpet bag texture?: $9.00, that's right!

Next we have one my buys that I've yet to wear in warmer weather. This dress is a light jersey knit, and it has a delicate lining so there's no need for a slip. There's an exposed back zip for a more modern flair, and the color palette of blues and greens are anything but a boring blend for Fall. How much was this easy, A-line dress that features the ease on a 30 second on/off time?: $8.00, on clearance. Add some nice flats, some colorful heels and bold jewelry, you have style in 3 minutes or less!

Lastly, we have something I'm particularly proud of--one of my most exciting style finds since the recent acquisition of Madden's blue suede heels covered in Christmas tree spikes (BTW, those were another steal at under $30.00). Treasure du jour? A pair of knee high boots for Fall! They're suede, not to mention two shades of pink accented with lavender. Made by Two Lips, these stunners were originally carried by DSW from the sticker still on the bottom. Originally, they sold for $165.00; DSW marked them down to $129.94. What did I pay for them? Drum roll, please.......: $33.00.
That's right kids--$33.00 for a designer pair of boots, still with the stickers on the bottom (and all the tread--the soles look like they've never been off carpet):

 

That's all for now, StyleWise Guys & Fellow Fashionistas--good night, good dress...and happy hunting!!

 

Style Spotlight: FreeStyle Exchange, Citrus Heights, CA

Greetings StyleWise Guys & Fellow Fashionistas!

Style Spotlight on: FreeStyle Exchange

Address: 6412 Tupelo Drive, Citrus Heights, CA 95621
Phone: 916-725-3733

Ever wonder where the wisest, both thrift and style conscious stop to shop? One of my many favorite places to spend an afternoon, FreeStyle Exchange. Not only do they buy your old clothes/shoes/accessories, both guys and dolls, but you can use the cred for in store must haves. Say hello to your new best girlfriend's at the front desk and drop off your clothes for sort-while-you-shop service.

Best of all, the Gals here are fantastic--helpful and upbeat (you'll never get that side long too-cool-for-you look like at some local boutiques). The service for the dressing rooms was prompt and polite--best of all it was offered by a nice Gent in a jaunty hat!

Send your guy over to the Men's section for that pair of fall boots, and step on over to the shoes. The organization here is nice--you can play around by shopping by color--there are little islands of shoe heaven atop the racks of blouses, tees, jackets and sweaters. The brands I noticed were Steve Madden, Nine West, Jessica Simpson, Gwen Stefani's: Harajuku Lover's, the list goes on and on. There's also a sized-out section, row by row, atop the jeans/slacks/skirts.

The back purse wall in the far left in something to behold--there's bags from every designer in almost every style and color. (I myself scored a tan with emerald leather trim Gucci bag with silver buckles for only $16.00--j'adore!!) To name a few I saw today--and remember this all changes quickly, so don't wait to score that treasure--Steve Madden, Gucci, Nine West.

The rear wall to the right painted a cheery bright red (I know, I'm biased, I don't care!) has  the dresses, sized out and best of all--on CLEARANCE! There's also a section of shoes on clearance, some half off of already low prices!

My other scores today were a silken pair of black and pink floral PJ pants (no picture offered; a gal's gotta have some mystery, right?)--all over the place and a huge trend for those that know how to apply the PJ concept.

   Firstly Ladies, you CANNOT look like you just rolled out of bed! If you're going to do this, your hair and makeup have to be done, front and center. Polishing off this look with some metallic jewelry keeps this from looking too "sleepy". (Think chunky pearl necklaces/earrings, and maybe even a red lip. Keep this look classy and ladylike.)
   Secondly, the shoe has the be as far from a bed slipper as possible--to keep this feminine go with a metallic flat gladiator sandal or a bold high heel (keep the heel high and the profile slim, again, on the feminine side).
   Shading: If the top is a bold color, go with a neutral or a sharp contrasting color for the skirt--the opposite holds true as well. If the top is a neutral, then skip standard black on bottom; think a bolder shade like orange or teal on bottom with bold purple bag.
   Lastly, if you go for the silky pant, look for flowing fabrics in darker soft patterns featuring unexpected colors. Navy with a red geometric print would be stunning, or tan with a bold jewel tone print such as sapphire or ruby. If you try the PJ top, don't go too large or flowing if you're on the thinner side--the top should not try to eat you. If you are blessed with a full set of The Girls, treat them well by picking a top with darting/seaming for your bust as well as buttons that close without bowing or gapping. The top should hit no longer than mid hip if worn on the outside of jeans to keep from looking bulky, or be tucked in to a pencil skirt.
    Follow these guidelines and you'll look on-trend, not in-bed. (Since I practice what I preach you'll see this concept on me shortly. <GRIN>)

   Enough about me though--who wants to see a plus size beauty, styled by yours truly?

Casual here is on the wild yet sophisticated side--this top with the bold floral pattern and modern color palette are set off by the pink alligator flats; the extra edge is added to the shoe with the gold toe. This also works off the bold dark blue wash of this jean:

Here's were curves go classy--I hope you're sitting down, because retro meets ladylike in this black, white and pink confection. Notice the black heel which, from the back, offers a peek-a-boo of a silver leather bow:

Here we have a great caramel shade with a pop of emerald, on the beautifully warm complected Michelle. The same skinny jean as seen on our first model are rocked here and as a testament to their wearability, they were worn not only by both models (but Yours Truly):

My favorite pop of contrast in this outfit is the baby pink python wedges--they're so unexpected in that rosy tone against the silky caramel blouse (see how happy she looks?).

If I don't wrap this up, we'll go on forever--through the Vintage and Designer sections, the hats, the jewelry--but we'd be here all night! After all that shopping I'm bushed! The items featured here were all at thrift store prices, so my adrenaline really got going in there.....chuckle! (If anyone wants to go back, just let me know, I'm happy to go shop, I mean, er, escort you!)

That's all for now, StyleWise Guys and Fellow Fashionistas......Goodnight, and Good Dress!