Wishing everyone a Happy New Year

 

filled with tons of fabulous looks

& savvy shopping!

 

Holidays are past and Spring is in the future!

New Features:

• EMAIL ME: SavvyStyle@StrategicEdge.us

  If you don’t want to post a comment or dilemma directly on the site you can now send it via email. I’ll promptly begin working on the Savvy Solution.  Answers will be featured in a new article & I will email you with the title for easy searching.

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Upcoming Projects:

• Runway to REALway: Featuring Savvy Selections of top designer’s recommendations for updating your wardrobe.
• The New Blazer: Article showcasing new ways to mix up your work wardrobe by providing options for the suit blazer.
• Fabric 101: A new How-To article series featuring ways to look your best whilst wearing a suit. Fabric 101 will be your guide for selecting appropriate fabrics that will sustain dressing throughout the year…Savvy Selections of course!  Suiting 101 discussed Mixing & Matching and a Quick Fit & Size Guide…if you haven’t read it be sure to check it out in the Fashion Category.
• Haute Holiday: Valentine’s Day is right around the corner & Savvy Style will feature all things romantic & haute for the ever popular Day of Love!
• Mix & Match: Another new article series featuring ways in which to Mix & Match your Essential Key Pieces with Trendy Pieces. Up next: Black Trouser.

Thanks to all of you who have helped to make this site a growing success!

Savvy Style has been a lot of fun thus far & I look forward to it’s continued growth & new features!

Stay in touch….I love delimmas and love hearing from you!

Savvy Shopping!

Ciao’

Mix & Match: a new feature for Savvy Style!

Featuring a Key Piece and ways to Mix & Match it with other Key Pieces in your wardrobe &/or Savvy Selections from previous articles.

• Key Piece: Black Turtleneck

 Classic Black Turtleneck: A mainstay in any stylish wardrobe. The Black Turtleneck offers versatility for dressing up or down.

Match: Satin Blazer & Skinny Trouser

      

Mix: Straight Leg Jean & Plaid Trench

   

Mix: Fur Vest & Flare Jean

    

Match: High Waist Trouser & 3/4Q Crop Jacket

  OR 

Mix: Layer with Wrap Top, Tie on Jewel Tone Scarf & Straight Leg Denim

    

Match: Black Trouser & Crop Leather Jacket

       

Mix: Black Skirt & Bold Coat with Menswear Shoes & Stud Bag

   

Options are endless! Mix fabrics, layer textures & incorporate menswear inspired looks with feminine styles. Whatever your selection…it is certain to be fabulous!

Savvy Shopping!

Ciao’

Business casual, corporate classy or sophisticated suit are just a few terms used to describe workplace dress codes. Whilst these terms may be catchy they often leave many women scratching their heads. Vague descriptions often create an already daunting task of shopping more difficult and overwhelming.

Savvy Style has featured many articles on Key Pieces, The New Essentials, Classic with Color, Classic Black & Creating a Wardrobe Journal. (To review these articles check out: Recent Posts or select Fashion under categories). These articles describe the essential pieces you should have in your wardrobe or add to your existing wardrobe to build the coveted classic style.

Fashion Dilemma: 

• Mix & Match Key Pieces with Trendy Pieces.
• Quick Fit & Size Guide 

            

Mix & Match: Incorporating unexpected pieces with suits provide versatility & options

• Tie on a scarf or wear luxe jewels to add a touch of glamour. 
• Satin, silk & cotton sateen tops give suits feminine texture.
• Intricate details such as: bows, pleats or ribbons – exude personality & individual style.
• Jewel tones give the complexion warmth and keep suits classy & smart.
• Select cardigans, shrugs or 3/4 quarter jackets rather than a basic blazer for trendier or more casual looks.
• Color can be bold and vibrant when worn on shoes or handbags. Select colors that accent the overall tone of the outfit. (Ie: Pair red with earth tones: chocolate, eggplant or gray)

Quick Fit & Size Guide: Essential to keeping suits stylish – not sloppy

•  Suits should be tailored not tight. A woman’s suit can accentuate curves without being tacky.
• Blouses should not pucker at the bust. If the button looks like its about to pop…chances are it will! Fashion faux pas! Be thankful & just go up a size.
• Long sleeves should lay directly past your wrist bone at the edge of your hand. Further down on the hand looks unpolished & sloppy.
• Knit or satin tops should grace your curves not turn you into a sausage casing!  
• Hemlines: the easiest way to cheapen an expensive suit is to not finish the hem. Savvy suits appear more expensive when tailored.  

1. Pants: NEVER walk on the back of your pants! Take the time & go to a tailor, find a local seamstress or have a friend pin the hem & take to a dry cleaner. Pin pants with your typical daily heel height. Regardless of your method the small investment you make is worth a million!
2. Skirts: If in doubt…don’t! Age should not determine your hemline. Try on several styles whilst in the dressing room to select appropriate & ladylike hems. Be sure to sit before purchase…if you tug at the hem – it’s too short! Flattering lengths grace the knee.  

A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous – Coco Chanel

Words to live…..and shop by!

Savvy Shopping!

Ciao’

Dilemma: The need to look classy & professional with a desire to look stylish & modern.

• Basic Black, Gray or Brown become bold when mixed with a variety of textures, fabrics, colors or intricate details. 
• Mix & Match key pieces of your wardrobe with a few trendy pieces for more fashionable looks without seeming as if you are trying to hard to be ‘en vogue’.
• Color IS your friend – don’t shy away from rich jewel tones – your complexion & confidence will radiate!

Savvy Selections

• Key Piece: Gray Tweed

     

 LaRedoute   OldNavy 

 MangoShop   Forever21 

    OldNavy

• Key Piece: Brown Tweed

     

 BananaRepublic   Forever21 

  BananaRepublic  BananaRepublic 

  OldNavy   MangoShop

• Key Piece: Black

     

 Express  MangoShop 

 Express Express 

  MangoShop    Gap

• Mix & Match any of these tops with your Key Pieces. 
• Selections should reflect your personal taste.
• Earth and jewel tones turn basic into bold whilst keeping your style simple and elegant.  

Savvy Shopping!

Ciao’

Today’s woman can wear an important evening dress or a simple pant and top. It’s all in the personality of the woman – Giorgio Armani

The perfect party dress is often discovered in a great pair of trousers. Tailored styles, intricate detailing & luxurious fabrics offer versality for your evening wardrobe.

Show off your personality with a stylish top, luxe jewels, sexy stilletos or chic clutch!

Best Advice: Select a classic simple trouser with clean lines, dark color & year round fabric.  As a staple in your wardrobe it will provide an easy piece to Mix & Match with trendy tops. 

Savvy Selections: Trouser

• A mainstay in your wardrobe base your trouser selection on your needs. If you currently own a tailored trouser you may opt to purchase a new pair in a different fabric or cut to wear exclusively for parties or dining.

 $49.50 Gap      $79.50 Express

 $98.00 BananaRepublic

 $43.99 MangoShop      $20.00 OldNavy

 $79.50 Express      $59.99 BananaRepublic

 $39.50 Gap      $32.00 TwelvebyTwelve

 $29.99 Gap      $19.75 OldNavy

 $33.99 MangoShop

Savvy Selections: Tops

• Exude personality by pairing a traditional trouser with a trendy top.

 $28.99 MangoShop     $38.00 UrbanOutfitters

 $39.50 Express     $38.99 MangoShop

 $33.99 MangoShop     $39.99 BananaRepublic

 $32.00 UrbanOutfitters     $21.99 MangoShop

 $29.99 BananaRepublic     $19-38 ArdenB

Elegance is a question of personality, more than one’s clothing– John-Paul Gaultier

Savvy Sharing: Dress for you rather than the guests at your next party. Elegance and style are quite becoming whilst carried on confident shoulders!

Savvy Shopping!

Ciao’

Dresses defined: feminine & elegant

Your dresses should be tight enough to show your a woman and loose enough to show you are a lady – Edith Head Costume Designer

Preparing for any party can be quite daunting if basing selections on another person’s idea of what is fashionable for the moment.

Best Advise: When selecting an outfit for a party or night out – know yourself & stick with what works for your body! 

Easiest way to ruin an evening – lacking confidence in your selected attire. Just because bandage mini dresses or empire waist dresses are ‘en vogue’ doesn’t necessarily mean they are ‘in’ for you.

Problem: Selecting a stylish party dress to satisfy the urge to look current whilst remaining true to classic form and fit. 

Savvy Selections

 Belted Dress $79.84 ASOS     

Details: ruffle sleeves, traditional sheath style & patent belt…classically modern

 Fleky Dress $61.99 Mango Shop

Details: Sheer neckline, fringe bodice & traditional sheath…feminine with a touch of glam.

 High Neck Tie Dress $45.62 ASOS

Details: Sheer neckline, black tie back for halter styling & delicate fabric…pair with black tights & black Mary Jane’s for polished look.

 Jewelled Shift Dress $45.62 ASOS

Details: Classic shift style with jewel detailing…adds touch of luxe to traditional.

 Lux Drape Front Dress $48.00 Urban Outfitters

Details: Luxurious drape dress with romantic appeal…mushroom color will stand out amongst a room of basic black!

 Lux Between Days Dress $78.00 Urban Outfitters

Details: Feminine cut of satin & lace – wear with taupe or flesh tone pumps to lengthen legs…simple & elegant!

 Lux Sugar Kane Dress $39.99 Urban Outfitters

Details: Cobalt blue, halter bodice & ruffled hem…feminine & modern when paired with ankle boots.

 Mixed Fabric V-Neck Dress $79.50 Express

Details: Satin bodice, shimmering flared skirt & knee length…elegant with an edge.

 Shimmer Jewel Deep V $57.03 ASOS

Details: Silver bodice & jeweled waist detail…keep accessories simple.

 VSL Degrade Dress $63.99 Mango Shop

Details: Red Satin, deep V & black tie back….another knock-out amongst a sea of black!

Dresses are the epitome of femininity and elegance when paired with the perfect fabric and tailoring. Whether celebrating in the city or toasting at home your New Year is sure to be a fashionable & savvy success!

Savvy Shopping!

Ciao’

“I will literally be the old woman who lived in her shoe” – Carrie Bradshaw Sex&TheCity

  

Shoes are a necessity…so they must be fashionable!

Thinking of the New Year I find myself searching for a fabulous new pair of shoes. This week’s Fabulous 5 features some spectacular shoes that are incredibly savvy! Whether you are ringing in the New Year at home or out on the town you will be sure to step in style.

Savvy Selections

 2 Tone Pump $32.50 Alloy

• Stylish & sexy paired with Skinny Black Pants & Black Satin Blouse
• Show off your legs & wear with a Little Red Dress or Black
• Tuxedo styling so keep the rest of your outfit feminine

 Red Suede Ankle Boot $75.99 Mango Shop

• Heads will turn toward these killer kicks!
• Style with LBD, Ink Wash Skinny Jeans or Dark Trouser Jeans
• Daring: Pair with Silver Mini Dress
• Accessorize with Luxe Jewels or a Purple Scarf for an added touch of glamour

 Sparkle T-Strap Pump $61.99 Mango Shop

• Simple & Stylish paired with menswear: Black Wide Leg Trouser, White Tux Shirt & Black Vest
• Daring: Pair with a Satin Red Dress or Red Bubble Hem Skirt
• Casually Chic with Straight leg denim & a cowl neck sweater
• Keep jewels silver or black stones: Let the shoes be the accessory

 Satin Pump Canary $32.50 Alloy

• Pair pumps with Gray, Navy, Cobalt, Black or Winter White
• Coordinating colors will make these pumps pop
• Jewel tone accessories: Red, Purple or Turquoise
• Be creative….but keep it simple!

 Snake Bootie $39.50 Alloy

• Rock these boots with Black Skinny Jeans
• Jewel Tone Tops & Faux Fur
• Pile on silver bangles, oversize hoops or a long strand necklace

  

Sometimes all a girl needs is a great pair of shoes to complete or compliment the perfect outfit. Pair the Savvy Selections with your existing wardrobe for a touch of luxe, glamour or pop of color. Purchase a new pair for a special night out to make that perfect dress scream sex appeal!

Whatever your selection….it is certain you will look fabulous whilst savvy!

 Savvy Shopping!

Ciao’

Do you find yourself standing in your closet staring aimlessly at your clothes whilst preparing for a trip? Packing can become rather exhausting & frustrating resulting in a suitcase loaded with lots of uncoordinated pieces.

I refer to this tornadic scene as the “Grab & Pack Fiasco”! Grab & Pack results in many disheveled pieces rather than assembled stylish looks. We have all done this sort of packing: grab tons of tops, pants & jeans and throw them into our suitcase…assuming the pieces will miraculously fit together because they are basic & simple. Unfortunately, failure is sure to ensue and low confidence will abound upon dressing whilst at your destination.

Project: Selecting stylish pieces to pack for a trip home for the holidays. Weather conditions at your final destination may cause the need to alter your looks accordingly. For example: Warm Weather Holiday: pack short sleeve pieces rather than long sleeve, a lighter jacket & omit the turtleneck. Cold Weather Holiday: add a classic sweater or cardigan, classic wool coat & keep the turtleneck.

Stylish Selections

• Trouser Jean
• Black Turtleneck
• Black Pant (Select skinny OR trouser based on personal preference)
• Black Satin Blouse (Satin will provide texture, dressier touch & still classic)
• White Blouse
• Shimmer Cami OR Dressy Top (Glam up your Holiday: Red, Gold or Jewel Tone)
• White Tee
• Black Tee
• Casual Black Dress (optional)
• Scarf (Satin, Wool, Cashmere or Cotton…adds color, layering & texture)
• Classic Black Coat &/or Black Leather Jacket (select based upon weather, outings & travel time)
• Flats (Leopard, Patent or Colored…these will add a pop of color to basic)
• Favorite Pumps (Black, Red or Metallic)

Stylish Looks: These assembled looks are a few ways in which Key Pieces coordinate and become fabulously chic!

1.  Trouser jean, Black Turtleneck, Leather Jacket & Flats
2. Black Pant, Black Turtleneck, Classic Coat & Flats
3. Black Pant, Shimmer Cami, White Blouse, Leather Jacket & Favorite Pump (Black or Coordinated w/Cami)
4. Trouser Jean, Jewel Top, Scarf (if coordinates), Classic Coat & Favorite Pump
5. Black Pant, Satin Top, Leather Jacket, Scarf & Favorite Pump
6. Trouser Jean, White Tee, Black Classic Jacket or Coat, Scarf & Flat
7. Casual Black Dress, Leather Jacket & Favorite Pump or Flat
8. Black Skinny Pant, Shimmer Cami, Leather Jacket & Favorite Pump

Remember:

• Key Pieces are traditional & simple in color, fabric & tailoring. 
• Adding a colorful scarf, fun flat, or chic cami gives classic a trendy look.
• Assemble suggested looks before packing to ensure colors coordinate.
• Give traditional pieces an edge by wearing your Leather Jacket & Trendy pieces class by pairing with your Classic Coat.

Keeping your look classic and simple will promise success from the family dinner to opening gifts under the tree! So even if you don’t like all your presents…you will certainly look fabulous while receiving!

Savvy Style!

Ciao’

Projects:

Home for the Holidays

As we are all getting ready for the holidays I am constantly getting new inspiration through conversation, shopping or just browsing the net.  Upcoming articles are going to be fabulous & I am really excited about sharing them with you. Check out what’s going on Behind the Scenes!

• Fabulous 5 Favorites: Each week I am going to select an essential piece that can be added to your wardrobe.  Featuring 5 favorites to offer options with style, price & quality.  Selections will vary from belts to the perfect white shirt.
• Instant Style – LookBook: (Previously Q&A) – Featuring photographs &/or pieces that I have selected and compiled together into a stylish look.
• What to Wear: Series of articles featuring a Key Piece and will simply answer the question: “What to Wear”? These posts will give you options & ways to mix & match your wardrobe for chic new appeal.
• Party Perfect: Going out for New Year’s Eve or staying in…the only requirement is to look fabulous! Party Perfect will feature the Perfect Party Dress looks that will help you ring in the New Year with savvy style.

Savvy Sharing

• Make Your Eyes Pop: Holiday make-up is often a daunting topic because we always want to add a touch of glamour or sparkle but don’t want to look…”Made-Up”.  The best trick is stick with what works. Keep your normal make-up routine and select one feature to accent or highlight. Select either Eyes OR Lips….remember as with accessories: Less IS More! If you select eyes keep your lips simple & vice-versa

 Eyeshadow for every eye:

• Brown Eyes: Champagne & Gold, Intense Greens & Purples or Rich Smoky Gray
• Green Eyes: Golden Beige, Pale Purple & Smoky Plum or Burgundy
• Blue Eyes: Golden Rose, Shades of Brown or Gunmetal Gray
• Hazel Eyes: Tawny Pink, Dusty Violet or Gray-Blue & Navy

More specific tips: www.stylewatchmag.com

Eyeshadow: www.sephora.com (FANTASTIC selection!)

Savvy Shopping

Shopping is often so frustrating when the perfect handbag or shoe is sought after with no success. This failure often makes me wish I could design my own….now I can! Perhaps more pricey than savvy but think of the conversation piece you could create by designing your own handbag or shoe. Warning: Addictive!

Solution: www.stevemadden.com     

Savvy Shopping & Happy Holidays!

Ciao’

“It Bag” of the moment is the clutch…seen on every fashion icon from Sarah Jessica Parker to Victoria Beckham. Clutch handbags are so versatile….ranging in style from glamorous to bohemian. This versatility is exactly why I love clutch handbags. The oversized style looks great during the day or whilst out on the town at night.

• Love: Styles with lots of detail….rhinestones, buckles, flaps, fringe or silver hardware. Accents give the clutch a distinctive look with stylish appeal. Wear your clutch handbag with anything & everything….it’s all in the details!

Savvy Selections

  Beaded Bag $62.76

 Large Gold Buckle $88.00

 Metallic with Stones $33.99

 Fold Over Clutch $58.00

 Pink Frame Clutch $9.99

 Blue Wave Satchel $39.50

 Black with Gold $47.99

 Raw Edge Clutch $54.75

 Nine West Fold Over Clutch $59.00

 Fur Frame Clutch $68.99 

 Pleated Patent Clutch $88.00

 Snake Buckle Clutch $33.62

 Patent Clutch $84.99

• Bold colors add pop to jeans & rhinestones give a little black dress a touch of glamour! Add these to your Wardrobe Journal because they are definitely an essential mainstay for a stylish wardrobe.

Beaded Bag…check!

Savvy Shopping!

Ciao’