styleosophy blog

fabulous friday | february 17 2012

2012-02-17T11:00:00Z

Giving back....

Means sometimes you have to think about yourself first. As you read this list, think about where your plus' and minus' are. Number 14 hit me right on the head! And as I write this post, I am working on number 24. This list needs to go on my wordle vision board as a reminder.

Notable mentions....

Fab Over Fifty is featuring recommendations for control leggings. There are a lot of choices on the market and I am glad to get these suggestions; Flexee's have been my favorite but I can't wait to try the other brands to see how they differ in fit and control.

Cassaundra Bourne of CCB Custom Dresses graced styleosophy with an interview featuring her custom dresses, in a wide-range of lengths, fabrics and styles. She graciously has offered a discount through March 31, 2012. Love it.

But this is crazy....

Pinterest is great for so many things. Some men get that, but most men don't (don't worry, they will catch on eventually. It's like being in grade school, we were always ahead of them). Clever Girls nails em' succinctly in their post, "how to stop being a Pinterest sexist."

Stop using women as a negative qualifier. It’s insulting and stupid and makes no business sense. Case in point: Pinterest isn’t wildly successful even though its user base is 70%–80% female. Pinterest is wildly successful because its user base is mostly female. You know, like Facebook’s and Zynga’s and even Nintendo Wii’s.

Check out this infographic from Monetate (source Mashable):

ccb custom dress | game changing dresses

2012-02-17T00:31:32Z

KaVatee's Neckalina was featured in the January post of my newest once-monthly feature on styleosophy, emerging styleosophers. It features interviews with fashion-forward entrepreneurs and will introduce you to new options to add to your wardrobe.

Ladies, let me introduce you to Cassaundra Bourne of Cassaundra's Custom Boutique. I am excited about this interview because Cassaundra creates dresses that are made for women like me, flattering, forgiving and affordable.

What's better than a custom-fitted dress? One made knowing that (after a certain age, you pick yours I will pick mine) we want to flatter our best assets, and hide the rest. I know I have some Fab Over Fifty fans out there that would love ALL of these dresses!

Love to show your legs? Choose any dress in a shorter length. Modesty is your preference? Cassaundra's dresses also come custom-made in longer lengths in a variety of fabric colors.

CCB Dresses are "available in misses size 2-14 and plus sizes 16-28. Our "Dress Right for Your Body Type" guide will help you take your measurements, determine your body type, and help you choose the right silhouette for your shape."

So many choices, I want one in every color. Let's get to it!

Can you tell us some of your difficulties in becoming an entrepreneur (again)?

Being an entrepreneur is very challenging and some of the difficulties in working for your self are being disciplined and organized. It seems like it would be so easy to call all of the shots and be your own boss but it's quite the opposite. Developing a business plan and implementing it are two very time consuming and difficult things to do. I am blessed to earn a living doing what I love so it seems less like work and more like fulfilling my dreams.

How do you intend women to feel when they wear your custom creations?

The intention behind my collection is for women to feel stylish and comfortable wearing my figure flattering dresses. Most of the dresses in my collection are made from gorgeous and forgiving matte jersey; it has a comfortable stretch and wears beautifully without clinging.

As a woman who wear plus sizes, I know how difficult it is to find clothes that fit well. We offer free custom sizing (sizes 2-28) and a body type guide to help women choose the right silhouette for their body type. We want every woman to have a great fitting dress that flatters her curves.

What is the best style advice you have ever received?

Wear your clothes don’t let your clothes wear you.

What is on the horizon in 2012 for Cassaundra's Custom Boutique?

We have plans to expand our collection to include custom tops, skirts, and jackets.

What is your styleosophy (style + philosophy)?

My personal "styleosophy" is that style starts from the inside out. Personal style is a state of being not only what I wear. I believe that the clothes I wear are an important form of communication telling a little bit about myself. I try to make sure that I tell the right story at the right time.

And a bonus question: What should every woman have in her wardrobe?

A classic little black dress, of course.

Cassaundra is giving us another bonus, just for styleosophy readers (I love a good discount on great wardrobe addition!):

Save 30% on any dress in our Little Black Dress Collection. Fine print: 30% off code is for Little Black Dress collection only, it cannot be combined with any other sale or coupon, and expires 3/31/12.

*Disclaimer: I worked with Cassaundra on this interview simply because I love the product. I did not receive any compensation, nor was a product given to me for this interview.

fabulous friday | february 20 2012

2012-02-10T10:33:52Z

Giving back....

Luvvie and her team are gearing up to Rock the Red Pump on March 10, 2012! I rocked my red pumps to last year's big event in Chicago and the fashion show was phenomenal. I already have my badge, did you get yours yet?

On March 10, the United States will recognize National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NWGHAAD). Launched by the Office of Women’s Health, NWGHAAD is a nationwide observance that encourages people to take action in the fight against HIV/AIDS and raise awareness of its impact on women and girls.

But this is crazy....

I find it insane that if your search the top three breast cancer research charities websites you cannot find a way to get financial assistance from them to get a mammogram. (But Komen will offer you assistance once you have found that you have breast cancer).

Nor do any of them direct you to where you can get a mammogram. Take a look for yourself.

Notable mentions....

I gave my opinion on Fab Over Fifty's Style Expert column. What a disservice her outfit is to her Missoni Flats.

Music and Miscellania....

The new Rue Magazine is out. Lovely.

Open publication - Free publishing - More magazine

This little boy and his dad just made me smile. He even has his sibling excited, you can hear the other baby in the background.

banish nipple show through | dye your own undies with rit dye

2012-02-08T11:30:47Z

I have seen a couple of articles addressing whether women of color are being ignored in the lingerie industry because we don't have more "nude" options to choose from.

We may be ignored, but why bother waiting for the industry to catch up when you can make the change right now?

Why wait?

If you don't see the shades you prefer, dye your own undies.

There are billions of dollars spent on lingerie every year. Around the world. Why "be frustrated", like Danielle from Clutch Magazine? Or why start a movement? They know we are here.

It does not matter what shade of woman you are. Create your own change.

I have been buying white, off-white and pastel bras for years and dying them colors that are tailor made for my chocolate carmelly skintone.

Rit Dye is my favorite brand. It's inexpensive, easy to use and I get exactly what I want in two wash cycles.

My dying tips:

Check out the Rit Dye Colorit Color Formula Guide and dyeing Tips for Success. Besides the invaluable tips you will find recipes for over 500 colors, including the latest on the runways.

Purchase powder dye until you have dyed a few items. The liquid is like throwing a bomb. It's easier to use in the washing machine.

On undies, use cool water. The color will still take.

Buy more than one box of dye. It may be likely the color you choose does not darken your items to the shade you prefer the first time out. I start with Cocoa Brown my first dying session, then follow up with Dark Brown.

When you dye your own bras and undies, the focus becomes the outfit, not what's not underneath.

mellina and co | statement making bracelets | tilt

2012-02-02T11:00:53Z

Want to make a serious investment in your accessory wardrobe? Choose any one these gorgeous statement bracelets from Mellina and Co. Pair one with a casual or dressy outfit, and watch the compliments flow....

Bamboo Touch, $120
Glitz Me in Clear, $150
Glitz Me in Black, $150

online style consult | can you help me with some new styles?

2012-01-24T11:00:54Z

Ms. E recently lost a good amount of weight (100 lbs., YAY!), and asked for my help shopping for a few brand-new outfits. Online Style Consult to the rescue!

With a huge lifestyle change you want to buy clothes that fit, but are likely worried that you will lose more weight and may not be ready to invest in new wardrobe options. But hey, why not? This is the time to celebrate the new body you have and the new frame of mindset that comes with it.

Staying in your old wardrobe will only remind you of where you have been. And mentally, as well as physically, none of that stuff fits anyway.

Shop slowly and choose staples that can grow with you as your wardrobe needs change. I picked a pair of Karen Kane pants for Ms. E that have an elastic back waistband, but are front flat-fitted. I would like these myself as I know I tend to pick up a a gallon or so of water weight every month. They will fit through those changes and will look great too.

Although Ms. E let me know her style is "classic", I picked Chico's animal print blouse in a worry-free travel fabric. Animal prints are the new "neutral". This blouse will carry her through just about any season and will look great with white jeans, black dress pants or leggings.

Ms. E can switch it up by wearing the off-white cowel neck top. This top is deceiving; it is a concealer and it is slimming, and will give her some shape while not being too clingy.

Add a patent leather pump and statement necklace and she is ready to shine.

Each outfit is under $300.

Lifestride Vera Peep Toe Pump (comes in Wide), $53.95
Karen Kane Structured Knit Flare Pant, $52.80
Karen Kane Long Sleeve Front Drape Top, $78
Chico’s Lucy Necklace, $59
Chico’s Loria Earring, $20
Total, not including taxes and shipping, $263.75

Lifestride Vera Peep Toe Pump (comes in Wide), $53.95
Karen Kane Structured Knit Flare Pant, $52.80
Chico’s Travelers Collection Leopard Print Lana Top, $99
Chico’s Leoma Bibb Necklace, $59
Chico’s Dira Hoop Earrings, $20
Total, not including taxes and shipping, $284.75

Would you like an Online Style Consult? Or just have questions? Email me, glenyse at styleosophy dot com.

fabulous friday | january 20 2012

2012-01-20T11:01:04Z

Happy Friday fellow fabulous friday readers!

I really enjoyed doing my very first blog interview with the owners of KaVatee (let me know if you enjoyed it too!). KaVatee is currently offering Styleosophy readers a 20% discount off any Neckalina. Use the code "POP" while making your purchase.

Check me out over on Fab Over Fifty giving my opinion on what's hot and what's not.

Over on Coco and Creme, we get some new rules for going pantiless. Doing so while attending church is considered a no-no.

I'm really digging this tutorial for making heart-shaped eggs. I'm filing this one away for the Easter holiday.

source: the fancy - dibdab

kavatee and the neckalina | the game changing accessory

2012-01-19T11:00:11Z

Today I want to introduce to you the newest once-monthly feature on styleosophy, emerging styleosophers. It will feature interviews with fashion-forward entrepreneurs and introduce you to new options to add to your wardrobe.

Lovely readers, please feast your eyes on this great accessory, the Neckalina. The Neckalina is a game changer and is "the marriage of a pashmina looking circle scarf and statement necklace. Each Neckalina is made from luscious, cotton modal blend fabric and features a striking necklace that can be worn separately. This one-size fits all, versatile accessory can be worn multiple ways so you can create your own unique look." (Click on any picture to go directly to their website).

It's produced by Katie Fairhurst and Valerie Eidson through their company KaVatee. They have several years of experience in fashion industry and I am absolutely over the rainbow that they decided to grant me an interview.

And guess what ladies, KaVatee is giving you a 20 percent discount off any purchase! Enter "POP" when it's time to purchase. (I know I love that! The Gail Neckalina is on my "gift to myself list!").

Can you tell us some of your difficulties in becoming entrepreneurs?

It is a lot harder than it looks!!! Fashion Design is not as glamorous as it seems. It does have it's moments for sure, but there is a lot of BLOOD, SWEAT, and TEARS that are involved! We both have evolved tremendously and have grown thick skin with everything we have gone through the past 5 years.

We are like sponges, we soak up everything and are still learning everyday! Some of our major hardships were/are: Nailing down finances, learning the manufacturing process, running a business while still working full time (we are still doing that), getting doors, elevators, car doors, etc. slammed in our faces (for 100 people/contacts we go after 1 will call us back). However, as much craziness as our business involves....we know KaVatee is our destiny everything we have gone through, we will go through is ALL worth it! We just love that fact that being an entrepreneur in our opinion means...."sky is the limit." We are blessed to be able to follow our dream, but we work our BOOTY's off for it! :)

How do you intend women to feel when they wear the Neckalina?

Today’s woman is so multi-faceted. Her life is very full and filled with a lot of demands on her time. The Neckalina makes her life easier because this one accessory can take her through her entire day. She can wear the scarf to her morning yoga class, use the necklace for her business lunch, and combine the two for her hot dinner date. She can de-clutter her closet and have one accessory for all of her needs. We want the KaVatee woman to feel beautiful, but also in control of her life!!!

The Neckalina is our first and flagship creation. We are proud of the countless hours we poured into researching the needs of today's woman to design a beautiful and functional accessory that is new to the market.

The Neckalina is a timeless piece that will be the center of each collection we design. Our goal is to continue to design innovative and versatile accessories that follow in the footsteps of the Neckalina. We will always strive to create products that are high in quality and function.

Which celebrity would you most like to see wear the Neckalina?

We are big fans of Beyonce, Rachel Bilson, Reese Witherspoon, Sofia Viagra, Kelly Ripa, Carrie Underwood........ We see neckalinas in their future SOON! :)

What is on the horizon for KaVatee?

We are excited for our Spring 2011 and Fall 2012 collections to launch! Get EXCITED! We are adding more accessories similar to the neckalina concept! Due to the success of the Neckalina online, we are getting ready to start approaching boutiques/stores in Feb. Please contact us for wholesale prices. (katie@kavatee.com). We are also excited about some more upcoming press (we have stay hush hush about it until it drops). Everyday is exciting and it's very entertaining/enjoyable to see what each day brings.

What's your styleosophy (style + philosophy)?

Our Daily Fashion Philosophy Styleosophy: Find a flattering silhouette for your figure. Keep it clean and classic, and add something to make it pop, make a statement, or get you noticed! Bright Colors, bold textures, statement jewelry and scarves, a striking pattern, etc.

KaVatee’s mission is to design and provide truly unique and versatile women’s accessories. We want to make it easy for today’s woman to make a fashion statement, as we like to say, make it POP!

Any boutiques that are an absolute "must shop at" when we visit Cincinnati?

We love Soho and Snap (now called Kate) boutique in Hyde Park....also, we are obsessed with the NEW LuLu Lemon store in Hyde Park (What a fantastic company). The new Sloane Boutique downtown, is a fabulous boutique too! :)

All images were sourced from the KaVatee website. Thanks again to Katie and Val!

*Disclaimer: I worked with Katie and Val on this interview simply because I love the product. I did not receive any compensation, nor was a product given to me for this interview. In fact, I will be using the discount above to get my own Neckalina!

gianmarco lorenzi | things I love thursday | tilt

2012-01-12T11:00:39Z

Simply gorgeous. The first sparkly nude pair could work in many different ways. Wedding, bride or bridesmaids? Yes. Yes and Yes. With a pair of skinny jeans and white shirt? Absolutely. I could wear the first pair for a night out, the movies, quite possibly dinner with the girls.

The rest of these stunners would need a simple outfit...I would want the shoe to say everything. I don't know how much they cost, but feel that at least one pair would totally be worth the investment.

All can be found on gianmarco's website.

tuesdays tip | top six wardrobe tips

2012-01-10T11:00:12Z

(This is a post I originally wrote on September 18, 2007. When I looked over it, I was going to change quite a bit about the way I orginally wrote it-I was pretty saucy with the language. Instead, I left the bad language in and updated it to reflect my move from Chicago, and also moving from Wordpress to a new hosted platform).

Style is not just about the outfit we see at first glance. It's about the unseen also.

Ever asked yourself one of these questions:

How do my shoes look? Do they need a shine or need the heel plates replaced? What is that sound? Can I hear myself clicking on the pavement? Is my lace bra looking lumpy and showing through my blouse? Did I catch my sleeve on fire? Are my sleeves too long? Can I use a haircut? Is my backside bunched up?

These tips transcend fashion trends, and will help you to stay stylish and comfortable in your wardrobe, no matter how large or small. If you need help in any of these areas, I offer Image and Wardrobe Consultation. Send me an email at glenyse at styleosophy.com or reach me on twitter @styleosophy.

Find a tailor. How? Ask someone close to you where they go. To see if your chosen tailor is a fit for your needs, give him small alteration jobs. I found mine through my favorite cleaners. I asked for a pair of dress pants to be hemmed first. A little more difficult was alterations on dress shirts. He took care of both requests exactly as requested. I'm a petite, size 14 on top, 8-10 on bottom. Rarely did I buy a dress and it fit in all the right places. All the dresses I had bought in a previous floral rage, I asked the tailor to make those dresses into skirts. Little by little, he did more and more, and never failed me. He never knew he was being interviewed for the permanent job (in my head). It was a great relationship. (I am now in the Tampa area if someone can recommend a tailor, I would deeply appreciate it!)
Find a shoe cobbler. How? Ask someone close to you where they get their shoes fixed and cleaned. Or ask your regular shoe store salesperson. I recommend Brooks Shoe Repair in Chicago. You can ship shoes to them for repair from anywhere in the US. They are expensive, but the best in the shoe and luggage repair industry. They can rebuild a shoe from the last up. They can do an exact fabric swatch match-good to know when you need a shoe dyed to match that outfit you just got altered at your new tailor. (Sidenote: There is nothing worse than a woman with a great stride, a smoking outfit and ran over shoes. Or a bad-ass suit, but no one will get too close because you may set yourself on fire any minute-you've walked your shoes down to the nails....ugh...click-clacking on the pavement like ain't a damn thing wrong. And got a damn Louis Vuitton Sobe Clutch hanging off her arm....girl, dig for some change in that purse and get to the Shoe Man QUICK!!!).
Find a hair stylist. That will truly be honest with you. If you read the first two you know what to do. Ask, interview and proceed. Why? Because a good haircut offsets the WORST bad hair days. Great haircuts make getting dressed easier.
Find help defining your lingerie wardrobe. Lingerie is as important as your finely tailored garments. Ladies. This. Is. Really. Important. Not every bra goes with every dress or blouse. Ask me for help with lingerie issues. I can send you to a slew of online boutiques that can also help you. (Those of you who need plus size lingerie, fear not. Choices are abundant for you also). Nor does every thong or pair of panties look good with every pair of pants, jeans, or capris. You need to have a variety. And you know who you are.
Gift yourself a full size mirror. Do a whole body check before leaving your home. If it looks bad now, it will feel worse later.
Everything is not for EVERY BODY. Ladies, please wear the size that fits you. Not the size you think fits you. And see number 4!

source: styleosophy