A Wardrobe Consultant's Closet Confession

Messy Closet

See that picture of the messy closet above? Well, it’s a picture of MY CLOSET! 

Yes that’s right I, a wardrobe consultant, have a messy, unorganized and cluttered closet. There, I said it.

Now, my closet wasn't always this way. Honestly and truly I kept my closet clean and organized. But then, you know how it goes- life got crazy, I was travelling non-stop over the summer, work got super busy, dishwasher broke (so I spent a giggillion hours researching new appliances), back to school shopping, birthday planning for the little one and so on and so forth…

So last night when I went to put my clothes out for today (I at least keep up with this time saving ritual) I ended up wasting a lot of time searching for the shirt I wanted to wear and decided enough is enough! I slipped up, I owned it and now it's time to get back to a clean closet. Today begins the closet clean up. 

What's the big deal about a clean closet anyway?

I’ve blogged about closet organization before, but since we are starting a new season and well my closet’s a mess, I figured it was time to talk “Closet Re-Fresh” again.

So what’s the point of taking out the time and cleaning a closet? There are lots of benefits of a clean closet:

a) You can mix and match your clothes with ease.

b) Pick outfits quickly and get you out the door faster.

c) Make clothes shopping easier and faster- In other words, you’ll know what you own and therefore can assess what you need. So when you walk into a store (or go online) you don’t have to spend hours “just looking”. You go in, select the item you need, pay and you’re done!

d) Save you money- (See Pt. c) - You know what you own and you only buy what you need.

Just re-writing the benefits is therapy for me… I can’t believe I let my closet get to this point, but now I’m pumped and ready to clean!

Here's the step by step guide to an organized closet.

The one year rule- Go through your closet and pull out anything you have not worn in the past year. Then from that pile, pull out the basics, (i.e. - white button down shirts, navy blazers etc.). Try them on and make sure the fit!! I put these items back in my closet since they are timeless and can be worn regardless of fashion trends. However, if any of these items are pulled out the second go around, they don’t go back in the closet…

If it doesn't fit, you must… toss it…- No matter what your personal style, body shape, hair color, skin tone is, if you wear something that doesn't fit (either too small or too big) the item will not look good on you, so toss it. Now, if you’re on a real weight gain / loss program and you’re looking at these non-fitting items as motivation to get to a certain weight then yes, go ahead and keep them. If you’re not, chances are you won’t fit into these items again, so don’t let them create clutter your closet, get rid of them. And if by chance you do end up gaining / losing weight its all the more reason to go shop for new clothes :)

Sort the clothes by category- Now that you've tossed the unneeded items, it’s time to organize your closet. I like to organize mine by category- shirts, pants, blazers, etc. all separated so I can easily see what I own and can therefore mix and match to create many different outfits.

Assess your needs- Once you have your clothes organized you can then see what you need. Take an inventory of your basics (black pants, button down shirt, etc). Check to see if you have enough seasonal items- sweaters for winter, shorts for summer...

What to do with that pile of clothing on your closet floor- Now, for the stuff to get rid of… There are several organizations that take clothing donations. Plus, with the holidays coming around there are many more organizations that will be looking for clothing donations. There are also garage sales, clothing swaps, etc. Whichever option you chose, make sure you get rid of the clothes quickly otherwise they may lay around creating more clutter or end up going back in the closet and there goes all that hard work…

So there you have it- easy tips to re-fresh your closet. Do you have any other closet cleaning tips? I’d love to hear them!

OK, I’m off to start cleaning, are you?

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What to Wear on A First Date (The "Non-Cosmo" Version)

First dates can conjure up so many different emotions, you could be excited, happy, nervous, anxious, all of the above... Whether the first date is with someone you met online, or you’re back out on the dating scene after a divorce, or you’re meeting someone your parents set you up with, figuring out what to wear on the date doesn't have to be stressful. In this edition of “what to wear when” we’ll be talking about how to dress for a first date so that your outfit can communicate your personality. No fluff about what you MUST wear to impress your date or the top trends you SHOULD be wearing on a date- Just tips on what you can do to put together a first date outfit that represents you. 

Does what you wear on a first date matter?

Aah, the age old question, does what you wear really matter? As you already know from my “What to wear on an Interview” post, it takes just 7 seconds to make a first impression. Whether we like it or not, one of the factors that influence a first impression is attire. In other words, a person (an interviewer, a date, someone you bump into on the street, etc.) will make up their mind about the type of person you are based on what you’re wearing (among other things).

Now, you may be thinking, “If first impressions matter, then I need to wear something that's trendy on a first date.” Well, not if it doesn't represent you. What you wear (and how you wear it) gives visual cues to the other person about you. Your style is an extension of you, it represents you.  If you have a classic personal style it really won’t make sense if you show up to a date wearing a mini skirt, stiletto heels and a bright top just because it's "fashionable". Probably an a-line skirt and a belted cardigan may work better… When choosing your first date outfit, remember that first impressions count so make sure your outfit represents you and makes you feel great and confident. 

Pre-date checklist

OK, so we’ve got that what you wear on a first date should represent you.  Perfect, now where do you from here...  Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a first date outfit.

•  Find out where you’re going on the date and dress appropriately- If you’re planning the date, you’ve already got this tip set. If you’re not, just ask. You don’t want to show up over or under dressed. 
• Make sure what you are wearing is comfortable- If you decide to shop for a new outfit make sure you wear it before your date- especially a new pair of shoes!! You definitely do not want to be thinking of the newly formed blister on your foot while you’re on your date and then implode when your date says “I’m having a great time, how about we walk around the neighborhood”. 
• Check the weather- When you look at the weather forecast and it says 100% chance of thunderstorms it’s probably not a good idea not to wear that white linen dress and open toe sandals that you were planning… Be prepared and choose an alternative outfit in case of bad weather.

First Impressions matter- got it ; Pre-date Checklist- got it ; So, wait, what do I wear on a first date?

Each person and their individual style is different so here are just a few suggestions on what to wear on a first date based on the type of date. 

Meeting for Drinks / Dinner after work- Just because you’re meeting your date after work does not mean you have to show up in a stuffy suit. It’s easy to let your personality shine through a work outfit.  For example, pair a pencil skirt with a printed blouse and pumps (if they are comfortable) for a fun and modern look. Add the piece de resistance- a trench coat!

A semi-casual / Non Formal dinner- In other words, not attire for dinner at The Plaza but for a lively restaurant downtown. Pair dark wash boot cut jeans with a sexy and sophisticated wrap blouse and 2 piece pumps. Add a clean clutch purse and a cool floral statement jacket for a trend right look. 

Sunday Brunch- Getting to know your date and noshing on some croissants and coffee sounds fabulous to me! On this date you want to look informal, yet put together. Pair boyfriend jeans, a relaxed floral top and pointy toe flats for a casual and updated look. Meeting on a chilly fall morning? Add a casual crop jacket. 

So there you have it, my take on how to dress for a first date. Now, I’d love to hear from you. Do you have a “winning” first date outfit? How do you choose your date outfits?

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9 to 5 Dressing and Beyond

When there's no time for an outfit change, you've got layering and accessorizing... 

The hibernation is over and summer is in full swing!! With warmer weather comes a lot more to do and I for one am taking full advantage of the sun after the horrific winter we had on the East Coast. I find that I'm running around a lot more with so many different activities throughout my day and I have absolutely no time to stop and change. Even when I'm on vacation and I'm supposed to be "relaxing" my days are still jam packed. An afternoon of sight-seeing could easily take me right into dinner and really, who has time to schedule in a stop at the hotel... 

Then of course, there's a "normal" work day. Work, to afternoon activities, to dinner to home. Again, when is there time to stop at home and change? So, what do I do? I rely on comfortable clothing items (after all, you're in them all day) and layer and accessorize. Here are some tips on how you can extend your wardrobe to take you from 9 to 5 and beyond.

As an example, I'll use the day I had yesterday. My morning was, as usual, insane.. But, I laid my clothes out the night before so I saved a lot time. (Click here for info on this time saving tip). Dropped my daughter to camp and I was off to a small business meeting. This part of my day required a professional look. So I turned to my trusty black pants (a must have!) and comfy yet polished layered t-shirt and cardigan. I also added some fun accessories- a long necklace, earrings and trend right cuff bracelets. Nude color flats rounded out the outfit. Cardigan not your thing? Use a blazer or jacket. T-shirt not your thing? Use a short sleeve or sleeveless blouse. Would never wear a flat shoe? Trade those out for comfortable wedges. 

From there headed to the office. I had no other appointments, but a ton of work so I could relax a bit. Still in "work mode" I did leave the cardigan and earrings on, but the necklace & bangles came off. 

Time to pick up the little one from camp and shuttle her around to her various activities. Then to dinner. So, off came the cardigan and earrings and on came the sunglasses.

The day had come to an end and I finally changed. This time into my PJ's :) and caught up on all my fashion magazines. 

While this example reflects a work day- you can still translate layering, accessorizing and comfortable dressing to most daily situations. Whether it's a day on vacation, going from a play date to date night, from work to dinner with friends or out on a date.

Now I'd love to hear from you. What are your tips on dressing from 9 to 5 and beyond?

Please share your comments below. 

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The Unsolicited Father's Day Gift Guide

Father’s Day is coming up and now it’s Dad’s turn to get some appreciation. Father’s day gifts used to be a big challenge for me because all the Dads in my life have different interests- from my techie husband to my retired Dad and my Grandpa who loves to do yoga.

I know I’m not the only one in this situation, so I decided to take a small break from style blogging and instead write a post on Father’s Day gift ideas for different types of Dads.

Please note, this is NOT a sponsored post. Similar to how I run my business (I do not receive any commission on clothing items that I recommend for my clients) I will not receive any payment on anything that I recommend. This is just a plain old list of items or ideas to help you figure out what to give dear Dad for Father’s Day. What better way to show Dad that you love and appreciate all he does by giving him a gift he will truly enjoy.

THE FASHIONABLE DAD- For the Dad who knows his Hugo Boss from his John Varvatos. 

Jack Spade Nylon Wing Duffle- Travel fashionably! 

Ray-Ban "Original" Aviator Sunglasses- Aviators are still a huge trend. With these sunglasses Dad will be looking sharp while enjoying the summer.

Shinola "The Runwell" Leather Strap Watch - These watches are hand-crafted right in Detroit, Michigan. They do carry a hefty price tag but they have gotten some good reviews. 

Help Dad Put Outfits Together- I blogged about this last year and to my surprise I got a lot of people contacting me about this post and wanting more information. Not to mention that my husband loved this gift and has already hinted that he now has some new shirts and ties and needs help creating outfits. 

Harry's Shave Sets- Dad will look dapper with a clean smooth shave.

THE "SPIRITED" DAD- For the Dad likes his "spirits" and beef jerky.

Hudson Baby Bourbon Whiskey- A bourbon from Upstate NY.

Build a Jerky- Let Dad build and choose his own jerky!

Schiller's Liquor Bar Cocktail Collection- Drink recipes from New York City's famous Schiller's Liquor Bar.

Wild Boar Salami- Get Dad the famous National Award Winning Salami from Creminelli's.

THE READING DAD- For the Dad who loves to read, here are some special Dad books.

Darth Vader and Son and / or Star Wars: Vader's Little Princess- Take your Dad's love to Star Wars up a notch with these delightful books from Jeffry Brown. Get the inside look at Darth Vader as a Dad.

Sh*t My Dad Says- This NY Times Best Seller book is filled with Justin Halpern's Dad's hysterical quotes and fatherly advice. 

Dads are the Original Hipsters- Photos of real Dads back in the day. 

THE SENTIMENTAL DAD- Put a smile on Dad's face with these sentimental gifts.

The Apple Photo Book, cards, calendars etc.- Create a personalized photo collection for Dad to peruse. 

#Hashtag Father's Day Instabook- A personalized photo book with a modern look and feel. 

Cards from the little one- This is an idea I've been mulling over. Every year my little one gives a hand made Father's Day Card to my husband that usually gets stashed in some drawer. I was thinking I would collect the cards over the years, bind them and have my daughter present them to her Dad when she turns 10 (or whenever she decides she's too old to make Father's Day cards).

THE TECH DAD- For the Dad that loves all things tech.

Pebble Smartwatch- With wearable technology getting bigger and bigger there are a wide variety of "watch gadgets" on the market. There's been quite a buzz around the Pebble watch. 

Fitbit- Again in the wearable tech arena. The fitbit tracks Dad's activity to make sure he's reaching his fitness goals.

Withthings Smart Body Analyzer- Another health / fitness tracker, this one's a scale. It "measures weight, body composition, heart rate and air quality". The scale along with the app keeps Dad on health track. 

Apple iphone 6- If Dad can take a rain check, the new Apple iphone 6 is rumored to be coming out in September. 

THE FOODIE DAD- He loves to barbecue, cook and eat. Here are some items for your foodie Dad.

The Beekman 1802 Heirloom Vegetable Cookbook- The Beekman Boys took center stage at The Amazing Race and transformed a small Upstate NY town and farm. Their latest cookbook takes veges to the next level.

Williams-Sonoma Monogrammed BBQ Set- Dad's personalized BBQ tools.

Williams-Sonoma Ultimate Grilling Rubs- Let Dad's barbecuing creativity go wild with these fabulous rubs.

THE DAD WHO HAS EVERYTHING- Still can't figure out what to get Dad? Here are some other ideas I had that may just help.

Tickets to a Sporting Event or Movie

Is there something Dad always wanted to learn but hasn't yet? Sign him up for lessons for cooking, golf, dancing etc.

House Cleaning / Mow Service- Let Dad relax by paying for a service to come in and clean the house, mow the yard or remove snow. 

Make a Donation in his name to Dad's favorite charity

Hope this list of ideas has helped you figure out something to get the Dad's in your life. Is there something special you're planning on getting for Dad?

Have a great Father's Day!

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What to Wear on an Interview

Your stellar resume and superb LinkedIn recommendations got your foot in the door. You nailed the phone interview with the executive recruiter. Now it’s time to head to the company’s HQ for a grueling day of interviews. No sweat off your back, right? You know your strengths and weaknesses, you’ve done research on the company and the job, and you’ve come up with questions to ask that will have the hiring manager say “Whoa, she knows her stuff!” But, do you know what you’re going to wear?

It takes just 7 seconds to make a first impression. So even before you get a chance to drop your mad skills on the hiring manager he / she has already made up their mind about whether you are competent, confident, likeable, etc. According to US News and World Report 1 of the 7 things that interviewers notice first is (drum roll please…) yup, you guessed it- Attire. The way you dress sends a message about your judgment, how you perceive yourself, and how you project yourself.

With quite a number of my clients asking about interview attire, I figured what better way to launch the “What to Wear When” blog series with, What to Wear on an Interview.

Not to sound 107 years old, but gone are the days when you’d wear a navy suit to an interview and call it a day. Now-a-days there are so many different types of companies (from start-ups to banks) with so many different types of dress codes (casual, business casual, casual professional) it’s hard to keep it all straight… But, have no fear, I’ll break down the “dos” and “don’ts” of proper interview attire.

TIPS

No matter what type of job or the type of company you are interviewing at, you must always look polished, clean and professional. Do your research on the company’s dress code prior to the interview. The general rule of thumb is to dress a ½ step above the dress code. If you show up over dressed the interviewer may get the impression that you won’t fit into their corporate culture. If you show up under dressed and sloppy well, that’s just not good… However, if you show up looking professional and just a notch above the dress code, then you’ve passed the first mark.

Here are my Top 10 Interview Dressing Tips.

THE COMPANY WITH A CASUAL DRESS CODE

First, step away from the hoodie and flip flops!! I completely get that dressing for an interview at a start-up or a company that has a casual dress code can be tough. It’s hard to find the professional yet casual balance. But hoodies and flip flops are not the answer.

I recently worked with a client that was interviewing at a West Coast e-commerce company that has a very casual dress code. To make things tougher, she was interviewing for a position in the legal department. She needed to portray her command of the legal field, yet dress to the casual culture. We decided on black skinny pants, a ruffle blouse, a cardigan and riding boots. Not the typical “lawyer suit” but we still stayed on the conservative side with the cardigan. The ruffle blouse and riding boots (that were clean and not scuffed) brought out her personality a bit and lent itself to the casual culture, while still staying polished. Finally, you can’t go wrong with black skinny pants. Needless to say, the interview went well and she got the job!!

Here’s another example of how you could dress for an interview at a casual company. Switch out the traditional blazer for a fun moto inspired jacket. Add a printed (but not a distracting print) blouse and black skinny jeans. Slightly accessorize by adding a fun tech watch (just make sure it’s not the competitors…) or a big face watch. A low wedge or flats round out the outfit and give it that clean polished look without being overdressed. Don't forget the clean manicured nails!

What to wear on a interview with a casual dress code.

Now, some may say that black may not be the best color to wear to an interview because it could be signified as being unapproachable, but it really depends on how you wear it. Personally, I’m all for wearing black because it also signifies leadership traits.

THE COMPANY WITH A BUSINESS CASUAL DRESS CODE

Business Casual means the dress code is business like with a casual spin. For this scenario I would not recommend wearing jeans or any true casual attire. I would also stay away from a full suit. Here I’ve taken the traditional white button down shirt and navy blazer and paired it with a fun stripe pencil skirt. I added a pop of color (nothing too bold) with beige mid heel shoes (you don’t want to wear high heels to an interview) and matching laptop bag. Keep the accessories very simple with stud earrings. A note when wearing a skirt to an interview, as much as it really, really stinks, you should wear hose when you wear a skirt for a more professional look.

What to wear on an interview with a business casual dress code.

THE COMPANY WITH A PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS DRESS CODE

This would obviously be the complete opposite of what you would wear to a casual dress code company. Stick with traditional colors and silhouettes. A grey pant suit with a navy blouse and low heel shoes is perfect. Add small stud earrings, a bracelet watch (not a big face watch) and a structured matching bag for a classic, clean and polished look.

What to wear on an interview with a professional business dress code.

So there you have it- tips and ideas on what to wear to an interview for different types of companies.

Do you have a favorite interview outfit? Or do you have an Interview that went south because of what you were wearing? I’d love to hear your interview outfit stories and what worked / didn’t work for you!

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