OK – Yes I have blogged about the Gucci Outlet Email list before….but I get so many requests about this I am going to start a quarterly blog post about The Gucci Outlet in San Marcos Texas – specifically about Jessica Childers – the mastermind behind the email list…..so if you don’t know the story – here you go!

The Story: Well I was at the San Marcos outlets summer  2010 – yah I planned a girls trip so I could go to the Gucci outlet – so sad but true!!! When I got there I had money to spend and was ready to shop. That’s when we (me & MCG) met Jessica! She was so NICE and HELPFUL. I of course found a bag I wanted – a lovely little white leather one! Any how, we got chatting about Gucci and my love for Gucci and that’s when she told me about the email’s!!!!!! I thought I would pass out! YOU MEAN I CAN SEE WHAT YOU HAVE IN THE OUTLET STORE WITHOUT COMING TO THE OUTLET STORE. OMG! YEEEESSSSSSSS, put me on the list!

The Details: Ok….the email typically comes about once per week and it is a laundry list of their new items. Week to week or email to email there is a HUGE range in what you might see. One week it might be clothing, the next scarves and then wallets….it all depends on the shipments as they arrive to the outlet store. Shipping is $10.00 – that’s if it fits in one box! So – if you want to be put on the list….. just call or email Jessica @ 512-392-9130 or GSanMarcos@us.gucci.com! Oh – not that I really need to say this but I will this is THE GUCCI OUTLET Store – no fakes here this is the real deal baby!

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This is the email I received from Jessica Childers at The Gucci Outlet today Feb 19, 2012!…

Happy President’s Day!

Here is a look at a few new handbags we received! Some of these have a fresh marked down price and some are new styles! Enjoy these great prices beginning today! UPS Ground shipping is $10 with a signature required upon delivery. Expedited shipping options are available if necessary. For security purposes we only ship to the billing address of the credit card that is used. As always, all sales are final so there are no returns or exchanges. I hope to hear from you soon!

I appreciate your loyal business!!

Jessica Childers

GUCCI

512-392-9130

Gucci - $309 Canvas Hobo with Lavender Guccissima Trim and Wooden Handle

1.) $309 Medium Ivory Canvas Colbert Hobo with Lavender Guccissima Trim & Wooden Handle, Dimensions 12W X 7.5H X 5D

Gucci - $309 Canvas Hobo With Chocolate Guccissima Trim and Wooden Handle

2.) $309 Medium Ivory Canvas Colbert Hobo with Chocolate Guccissima Trim & Wooden Handle, Dimensions 12W X 7.5H X 5D

Gucci - $249 Joy light blue hobo w silver hardware and Guccissima handle

3.) $249 Large Light Blue Colbert Hobo with white Guccissima Trim, Dimensions 14W X 8H X 6D

4.) $229 Med Light Blue Colbert with white Guccissima Trim, Dimensions 12W X 7.5H X 5D

Gucci - $189 Snap top Navy hobo

5.) $189 Small Navy Hobo with white Guccissima Trim , Dimensions 12W X 10H X 3D

Gucci - $429 Large GG Crystal Messenger With Brown Trim

6.) $429 Large GG Crystal Messenger With Brown Trim: Dimensions 16W x 12H x 2D

Gucci - $479 Large Brown and White GG Canvas Flat Hobo

7.) $479 Large Brown and White GG Canvas Flat Hobo: Dimensions 16W x 12H x 2D

Gucci - $499 Medium GG Crystal Flat Hobo

8.) $499 Medium GG Crystal Flat Hobo: Dimensions 14W x 11H x 2D

Gucci - $509 Abbey Flat Hobo with Detachable Strap

9.) $509 Abbey Flat Hobo Black Denim With Detachable Strap: Dimensions 18W x 14H x 2D

Gucci - $509 Abbey Medium Tote With Detachable Strap

10.) $509 Abbey Flat Hobo Brown Denim With Detachable Strap: Dimensions 18W x 14H x 2D

Jessica Childers

GUCCI

512-392-9130

So please give Jessica a call….and be sure to tell her I said hello!

I recently received this request from by blog:

Keyvan: I’m a fashion design student and for our next assignment we have to interview an artist, designer, stylist or someone who runs a website like yours. just wondering would you be interested to be interviewed by my regarding that?

My answer: Of course!

Keyvan:That’s awesome!

Here are the questions:

1- tell me about your self?

2- about the team at StylishShe?

3-how you came up with the StylishShe website idea?

4-how do you see the fashion world at the moment and how do you think fashion would become in future?

5-tell me about when you were invited to participated in the New York University women in business conference?

6- there’s a section on your website called image consulting. tell me about it?

7- is it hard to be a personal shopper or stylist?

8- where do you see StylishShe.com in coming years?

9- and at the end what advice do you want to give to people want to get into the fashion and styling industry?

_____________________________________

Below are my answers:

1- tell me about your self?

Tricia Mahoney – Marketing maven, business entrepreneur, advocate and mentor for women in business, Tricia is the founder and SHEeo of StylishShe. Tricia is all about style, fashion, image and beauty! She loves everything about it. Style is her love and her life.

So how did it all begin? Funny enough her career began in high-tech marketing, working at powerhouses such as TFA/Leo Burnett and CMGI. During the climb and height of the high-tech/Internet explosion, Tricia was exposed to powerful clients and was a driving force behind exciting large-scale initiatives. This experience was priceless both personally and professionally. After the stock-market adjustment and post September 11th, she realized that there was more to life than 16-hour days and knew it was time to re-prioritize her life and lifestyle and really focus on what was true in her heart – FASHION.

In 2001, StylishShe began as a fashion jewelry home event based business. But Tricia wanted more. She then created an exclusive fashion show/boutique shopping event series, The Unique Boutique. The series began as small venue and grew to a standing room only, multi-vendor, fashion show and shopping experience. During this time Tricia also founded a women’s entrepreneur group, The Andover Entrepreneurs. This group included non-completing, women business owners that shared the same demographic. This group focused on brainstorming, growing each other’s businesses and joint marketing initiatives. Both The Unique Boutique and The Andover Entrepreneurs were strong additions to the StylishShe offering. And StylishShe was getting noticed! This was the time that StylishShe was featured in a number of broadcast news stories; newspaper, magazine and online articles; and Tricia was asked to speak at New York University and Boston University. This success encouraged the launch of StylishShe Wedding Jewelry, an exclusive line of jewelry for brides and their attendants. And finally StylishShe Image Consulting which includes all of Tricia’s passions and is her true love because it brings it all together – closet cleaning and organization, personal shopping, wardrobe styling, wardrobe organization.

Which brings us to today. Tricia is an Image Consultant, Marketer and Writer. Through her Image Consulting services Tricia helps women of all shapes, sizes and ages with all their image and style needs. As a marketer and writer Tricia puts her ideas, thoughts, knowledge and expertise to good use and shares that with her clients and followers via the StylishShe blog & website, Facebook, twitter, style articles, guest blogs and soon…her book.

2- about the team at StylishShe?

Marile Borden – Marile’s greatest accomplishments in style are seen on the printed page. A veteran graphic designer, art director, and sometimes copywriter, Marile has successfully run her own marketing communications firm – Metal Creative Services– since 2001. When she’s not busy chasing down ad deadlines, creating lead gen campaigns, or designing the latest StylishShe collateral, she’s busy chasing down her son, Jack and daughter, Lia.

Amy Ekross – With a flair for marketing and finding the sassiest of shoes, Amy has a passion for style from head to toe. She kicked off her marketing career 11 years ago strategizing for companies in high-tech, financial services, and retail. When she’s not busy launching a new product, she’s checking out the latest restaurant or sipping delicious wines with her husband Brad.

Kelly Mangum – Lover of chunky silver jewelry and stylish stilettos, this search marketer is up for the challenge of balancing beautiful web designs with search friendly tweaks. Her specialty is originating targeted email and web traffic through online search, partnerships and electronic marketing. Previously Kelly has held marketing positions on both the client and agency side. Her career started out at an event marketing agency and from there Kelly moved on to various marketing roles at high-tech, hospitality software, and franchise companies. When Kelly isn’t busy consulting companies on how to grow their business online, she is running road races and chasing her son Jake, baby girl Declan, and ‘young at heart’ husband Chris, around.

Shauna Callaghan – Work At Home Mom of 3 & an Experienced Blog Designer, Shauna’s style is her gift for creativity. She started her blog design business in January of 2008 after leaving her career in higher education. She loves being a part of the blogging community. When she’s not designing blogs she spends most of her “extra time” with her husband and kids, enjoying time with friends, running other websites such as BurbMom.net and Business2Blogger.com.

3-how you came up with the StylishShe website idea?

I started the website about 10 years ago and at that time StylishShe was solely a home event based jewelry company so the website was focused on the jewelry lines and the structure of the events. In 2008 I launched the blog, Image Consulting and writing. This is when the site and my writing went from a brochure like entity to a dialog from me to my customers.

4-how do you see the fashion world at the moment and how do you think fashion would become in future?

The fashion would at the moment is on hold. Over the past few years styles and trends have remained fairly unaltered. Trends have not been bold or radical as the economy can’t support that kind of buying. I can see this with my image consulting clients. Over the past year, my work has changed from personal shopping to reworking their existing wardrobes. In addition the image consulting business has slowed down.

5-tell me about when you were invited to participated in the New York University women in business conference?

The SWIB Conference is designed to motivate, inspire, and educate on timely and important topics.

Embracing a historical perspective, the goal of the conference is to highlight the achievements of phenomenal women who have forged their own paths, pursued their passions, and ultimately, fulfilled their dreams. There are many ways to achieve success and we would like to emphasize that the path to success is a journey that every woman must define for herself.

“The Evolution of Women in the Workforce-Realizing Your Potential and Fulfilling Your Dreams” – the focus of the 2004 Conference:

Transforming Your Interests into Career Opportunities: Wouldn’t it be nice to love what you do every day at work? This panel will explore various strategies for turning your passions and interests into viable career or business opportunities, whether in the context of a corporate environment, or in a more entrepreneurial venture. The panel will include women entrepreneurs, executives, and members of the non-profit community who will discuss how they have translated their personal interests into dynamic and successful career paths. The panel will offer inspiration and insight into the different avenues for pursuing a career that incorporates the things about which you are most passionate.

6- there’s a section on your website called image consulting. tell me about it?

Image Consulting is a fancy word for styling and personal shopping. It includes:

Closet Assessment – Cleaning out your closet can be a daunting task. What to keep? What to throw? What to tailor? Tricia makes it simple. Together you will sort through the mountains of clothing and accessories and determine what works for your body and lifestyle. The guesswork is eliminated. Tricia assesses each piece by fit, cut, length and color and it doesn’t stop there, lifestyle is a huge part of the mix. What you do, where you live, and how much you socialize are all part of the process. For example: if you are an at home mom with a closet full of suits from your past career…they go. Or if you are a high-powered executive, mom of young kids with an extremely active social calendar, you need it all, from suits and mom chic to fun and fabulous out-on-the-town options. And Tricia can get you there with ease. It is also about working with what you have. Taking what you have in your closet and reworking it to fit and look better, just makes sense. But for many this is challenging. Tricia has the eye and the sense to know what pieces can be modified and exactly what needs to be done to them to look better. Sending items to the tailor is a lot cheaper than having to buy all new ones. Tricia is fiscally responsible and does everything in her power to use what you have and buy only what you need.

Wardrobe Organization – Tricia will come to you and go through your closet. Weed out the items that don’t fit – your body or your lifestyle – are out of date or just plain wrong! Tricia loves to organize and no closet it too bad for her to handle. She will organize your closet by categorizing pieces first by item then by color. In the end you will have a clean, organized closet with items that fit and flatter – both your body and your lifestyle.

Style Shopping List – You make a grocery list, right? So why wouldn’t you have a fashion shopping list? But this is not just the list of items you need, but more importantly it’s the list of items that are off limits. Yes off limits! We all have them, they are the items you purchase out of comfort and ease – and you have too many of them. We all do it. When we go shopping we seek out and buy items that look good and are easy, like shoes or handbags, right? Well why wouldn’t we, they fit all the time! So that is why we have the off-limits pieces on the list, because you need to get out of your safe zone and seek out those pieces you truly need! And I am going to guess that the pieces you need and the hardest to find, right? Defining what you need is critical before heading out to the stores.

Oh and ladies – let me just tell you – the reason you don’t have what you need in your closet is THE reason you stand in front of your closet saying “I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR!” You don’t because you buy what you don’t need and never get the pieces that you need to complete looks and finish outfits!

Personal Shopping – Ok, shopping is difficult. The right styles, the right cuts, the right colors…let’s face it getting it “right” is hard. Shopping with Tricia is fun, easy, and best of all, successful. She will translate what is in style to what works on you. Defining your ‘style personality’ and translating that into the pieces that compliment both your body and your lifestyle. Her objective thinking, fresh perspective, and eye for the fabulous just get the job done. Oh and the best part of it all, she works within your budget – small or large.

Wardrobe Styling – Ok, we have all seen the celebrity reality shows like Kimora Lee Simmons, Life in the Fab Lane on E! or MTV Cribs, right? And during the shows you see the utterly amazing closets of the stars and how they have all of their pieces and outfits cataloged into albums for ease and reference? Well Tricia can do that for you!

Just think how easy it will be to get dressed when all of your outfits are cataloged to your preference. It can be as simple as the outfits emailed to you or completely uploaded, organized, and cataloged. Now if that’s not enough, Tricia can take it one step further and custom create a wardrobe look book (photo album) – hard or digital copy, just like your vacation albums. This album will be custom created and will include all of outfits with detailed text descriptions. Can you imagine going into your closet opening your wardrobe album, flipping through its pages, selecting your outfit of choice and then reading the full description which details all of its elements. All you do is pull the elements from the closet and get dressed! YEA! I know, cool hugh?

Packing for Travel – India, Paris, Bermuda or Wichita, it doesn’t matter. If you’re going on a trip and need help packing – Tricia is your go to girl. She has packed clients for trips all over the globe. She maps out your trip and works with you to define your clothing needs based on your agenda and activities. You will be armed with a full detailed spreadsheet of all outfits as well as cataloged online album as future reference. Packing is finally easy!

7- is it hard to be a personal shopper or stylist?

The actual personal shopping/styling is not hard – it actually comes very easy to me, BUT getting the clients is. I am not a great sales person and that for me is the biggest challenge.

8- where do you see StylishShe.com in coming years?

StylishShe has always been connected to fashion, style and image. For me and the brand it is about the collision of style and writing. My focus will continue to work with clients on their image needs but to also continue moving forward (me and my literary agent) to secure a publisher for my books.

9- and at the end what advice do you want to give to people want to get into the fashion and styling industry?

Follow your heart and peruse your dream!

_____________________________________

This was fun to be on the other side of the interview! It is a lot less work this way!!!!!

Enjoy.

Vintage, antique or estate shopping is simply the best way to individualize your look with a truly one-of-a-kind piece…and it is a very chic way of personalizing your look with a special piece.

When shopping for pieces keep in mind that:

Antique = more than 100 years old

Vintage = at least 50 and up to 100 years old

Estate = pre-owned, anything old or new, purchased by a dealer from an estate

*As I speak about vintage moving forward it includes antique, vintage and estate pieces as a generalization.

Now if you are like me, I am not particular to specific artists, designers or time periods. I totally buy on look and how the piece makes me feel. For me vintage is about a look or a specific piece I like. I am not a collector, I don’t buy items to be collectables and I don’t seek our specific designers. I just buy what I like and I seek out pieces that are unique and special. For me vintage is a great and fun way to add spice to an outfit. If you are shopping for clothing, keep these tips in mind:

Tip: Make sure that any item purchased does not have an odor. Nothing is fashionable if it smells like you grandmothers closet…or worst mothballs!

Tip: Always give vintage clothing items a really good inspection. They are old and they are used. Check for rips, holes, burns, and stains. Now if the piece does need some repair, make sure it is minor, so you don’t incur a large tailoring bill. If you are going to begin shopping for vintage clothing, coats and furs talk to your tailor and get educated as to how much certain repairs cost. This way you can determine what repairs make sense and what is just too expensive.

Tip: Change the buttons – is an easy fix. You can select new buttons and sew them yourself or better yet…bring them to the tailor and have them do it for you! Replacing the buttons is extremely inexpensive and is a great way to add your personal flair to a vintage favorite.

Vintage clothing can be tough. The sizes were much smaller in years past, so clothing can be a challenge, especially if you wear a larger size or have long arms. For me the issue is in the arm length. I have very long arms for my size and finding a good fit generally is difficult, but shopping vintage is especially challenging.

Tip: If you have long arms seek out ¾ sleeves.

Tip: If the arm length is a squeek too short…make it ¾ length.

Vintage shopping is a very cool and hip way to get those unique or one-of-a-kind, style-making items for your wardrobe. My favorite is vintage jewelry. They just don’t make rhinestone eveningwear like that anymore…for the price! I love to watch the trends in fashion and then seek out vintage pieces that fit the trend but have more charachter and charm. Pins are some of my favorites – I love to cluster them for interest and individuality.

The celebs do it all the time. Check out Michelle Williams and Charlize Theron at the 2012 Golden Globe Awards. Williams in her vintage Fred Leighton jewel encrusted headband and Theron with a vintage brooch clasped to the waist of her gown. Beautiful!

Tip: Antique stores are loaded with pins and you can snag them for as little as $8.00. I purchased a huge 6” x 5” butterfly pin that features many colorful prong-set stones and a great deal of detail for $60.00! There really are HUGE opportunities and beautiful pieces to be found.

Tip: Make sure you really inspect vintage jewelry. Check that the clasps work properly, that all the stones are in tact and not loose and that the settings or prongs are flat and smooth. It is not a good deal if the stones fall out the first time you wear it.

Tip: Fully inspect stones for inclusions, chips, or cracks, especially ones that have dirt embedded in them.

Try to: Take vintage clip earrings and wear them… on the front of your heels, on your belt loop, or on the strap of a cami.

Tip: You can take those clip and screw back earrings to the jeweler and have them converted to posts, French wire or lever-back.

I also love vintage beaded, evening bags, furs and coats. They are just another way of incorporating a special, unique piece into your personalized look. A couple of years ago, I attended a vintage fashion show, I got to the event right when it opened so I could peruse the racks before the event. As I was heading over I saw the most gorgeous velvet leopard single breasted, mid-thigh length coat. It was a steal at $60.00. Every time I wear it strangers stop me and comment on how great my coat is. Fashion is about making your own style statement. For me this coat is one of my ‘individual’ personality pieces. It turns a simple jeans and t-shirt ensemble into a hip, funky original look. I feel stylish and chic.

Furs – Buying vintage can be a very cost effective way of getting that fur you want.

Tip: If you buy a fur at a discount or off-price store make sure you look at the stitching. You don’t want it if it is cracked or dry. Also inspect it well and be sure there are no rips or cigarette burn marks. Take your time and inspect every inch of it. If it does have a rip either on the fur or lining…it can be repaired. The longer or more extreme the rip, typically the more money it is to repair. If it is ripped off the seam….be careful. This can be a very expensive repair. But if it on the lining, you can have it re-lined…see next tip…

Tip: Bring that old fur to a furrier and have them clean and re-line it; sometimes if you relining they will embroider you name on the inside at no charge. This is a very savvy way of getting your own personalized fur at a fraction of the cost.

Bags – oh some vintage bags are so beautiful. I personally love the embroidered ones in all sizes. You just can’t find bags like that today priced so inexpensively. I think that there is nothing better than having a fun outfit, either dressy or casual, and wearing a hip, cool vintage bag on your arm. To me that is style and a definite way to spot a stylish woman.

Tip: Make sure that there are no obvious stains on the outside of the bag. Yellow stains will just make the bag look old and dirty, not hip and stylish. Check the lining for rips. And remember based on the extent of the rip, it can be repaired at minimal cost.

Tip: Beaded bags can be fixed, but it can be quite pricey. Make sure if there are beads missing that it is a very small amount. If you buy a beaded bag for a great price but thengo to a seamstress to get the beading fixed, it could actually cost you upwards of 5 to 10 times the price of the bag. This is not a bargain! If you do find a great beaded bag, see if the store has a return policy. Explain that you want to get a quote to repair the beading; the storeowner might extend a short time frame for return under these circumstances. It never hurts to ask. Or if you are in the market for a beaded bag, call a seamstress in advance and get educated as to how much is too much beading to replace and other pitfalls to watch out for, like ripped lining, staining, etc.

To see this article live on Examiner.com – click here!

Photo Credits:

Michelle Williams 2012 Golden Globe Awards

Charlize Theron 2012 Golden Globe Awards

AllSaints Aditya Dress from AllSaints Spitafield

So I asked my friend Gail Schneider to write a guest blog about brows. Gail is the  owner and brow shaping specialist of  Wow Brows, South Florida’s Brow Shaping Masters - and she is the MOST qualified brow expert I know!

How do I shape my brows?

No wonder we are hearing that ‘Eyebrows are the frame of the face’ so many times. This is so true, as the right brow shape should complement and balance your facial features. We recommend that a Professional shaper designs your eyebrows the first time. Once you get the right eyebrow shape, you can maintain it on your own in-between visits.

Here are a few simple, yet important suggestions:

• Find a strong natural lighting and use a magnifying mirror.  This will help you when you tweeze those stray hairs.
• Put an eyebrow shadow on your preferred shape with a slanted brow brush , and tweeze around.
• Do not over tweeze, less is more.

Where does the arch begin?

Mark the Start, Peak and End of your brow line with small dots using an eyeliner.  (see picture)

This should also line up approximately with the inner corner of your eye. Place a pencil vertically against your nose. Remove any eyebrow hairs that appear past the side.

How much to clear/clean above the brow?

This really depends on the shape of the brow and is not a must. Examine your eyebrows before shaping including the hairs above the brow.

When I groom do I comb all hair up and trim?

Gently trim your eyebrows if they are overly long or unruly. Brush the eyebrow hairs facing down using a small toothbrush, or a clean mascara wand. This helps define the natural shape of the eyebrow. Trim any stray hairs sticking out through the brush/ comb.

How much space do I leave between the brows?

Place a pencil vertically against your nose. This should give you an indication of the space needed to tweeze the stray hairs between your eyebrows for a clean, polished look.

What tweezers should I use?

We prefer the slanted tweezers.  Some of our favorites are Revlon, Sally Hanson, and Tweezerman.

If I have bald spots what is the best way to fill in? Pencil or brush/powder?

We designed all the right products at  ‘Brows Gone Wow’. Our favorite to fill in the sparse areas is the Brow Definer – a felt tip pen, waterproof which fills in even the worst mishaps, and stays on all day (rain or shine).

Any other tips and tricks…

Tweeze your eyebrows after taking a shower so your facial pores are open and the procedure is less painful.

Do not over-tweeze. Ultra-thin eyebrows will not complement any face shape and look unnatural.

Never follow the trend. Keep the brows shaped classy, full and arched.

Dear Fendi bag,
You are beautiful. I’m NOT a “bag” girl so this should mean a lot. I’ve been dreaming of you ever since I laid my eyes on you. Are you worth it? Will you make me smile? Am I worthy? BUT, you are on back order for FOREVER so maybe you and me just weren’t meant to be…..only time will tell…

New Years Eve is right around the corner. What are your plans? Are you headed out on the town in sequins to sip champagne? Celebrating at an intimate dinner soiree? Or hanging at home for a super casual get-together?

No matter where you go, you need something fun to wear. To get you started here are some tips for selecting your look:

Focus on YOUR best asset – flaunt it and make it scream. If you have incredible shoulders, wear a halter, strapless or one-shoulder. If you have a defined waist, cinch it with a belt. If you have great legs focus on your hemline and show those shapely calves.

Dresses – Are perfect for any occasion, especially New Year’s Eve. When selecting a dress, first consider the fabric as it defines the ‘dressy-ness’ level. Dresses made of jersey or soft cottons are more casual where as dresses made of silks, sheer or stiff fabrics are more formal and dressy.

Accessories – Really are a girl’s best friend. An over-sized cocktail ring, metallic clutch or dramatic, jewel encrusted chandelier earrings make any outfit dressier and more interesting. Think of your accessories as your outfit maker. Adding them finishes the look and creates style.

Embellishment – Any accent makes an outfit unique and special. Sparkles, sequins, feathers or fur create individually. The key to embellishment is balance, a little goes a long way. Don’t over do it.

Fit is critical! The most beautiful, well-made dress will look like a sack if it doesn’t fit properly. Tailor it – so it fits YOU perfectly.

If you’re headed out on the town for a night in sequins to sip champagne…. Go all out! It’s time for a cocktail dress, embellished jewels and all that sparkles. New Years Eve is a glamorous night. Bring on the glam!

One shoulder sunburst dress by Black Halo

One shoulder sunburst dress by Black Halo. This dress is for you if you have great shoulders. The billowy sleeve is soft and feminine! Jewelry should be kept to a minimum, but pieces worn should be bold. Try a chunky necklace or a huge cocktail ring. For makeup and hair, think modern. Sleek, pulled back hair keeps with the theme. Makeup should be strong and bold. A smokey eye would do the trick.

Catherine Malandrino Teal Dress With Sash Tie At Waist

Teal dress by Catherine Malandrino. I love her signature tone-on-tone cutout detail on her hemlines. The sash tied at the waist gives hourglass definition and the bare shoulders, so sexy. Hair worn up or tied back in a messy knot with oversized chandelier earrings. Stunning!

Black knee length Daisy skirt by Heidi Merrick with winter floral silk top by Rory Beca

Black knee length Daisy skirt by Heidi Merrick with winter floral silk top by Rory Beca. Pretty yet conservative from an exposure perspective. This is a great option if you don’t want to show too much skin. This winter floral is great for warmer skin tones. Make sure you really play up your makeup – a little bronzer adds warmth to skin. For a more formal option choose a black floor length skirt instead. Tip: A floor length black skirt is time-less and an AMAZING addition to any woman’s closet. It is classic.

Banana Republic Cleopatra-style silk, pleated dress

Banana Republic Cleopatra-style silk, pleated dress. A belt at the waist creates shape as well as emphasizes the waist. The combo of the neckline detail and the skinny leopard belt are a perfect compliment. Loose billowy, soft, wavy hair and a bold red lip – perfect!

Brown feather dress by Elie Tahari

Brown feather dress by Elie Tahari. The combination of the lace and the feathers are ultra feminine without being over the top. So pretty! The feathers are the focus so keep jewelry and accessories to a minimum. Hair up elongates the silhouette. For makeup, focus on the eyes and balance out with a natural lip. Add sparkle to the eyes to up the glam effect.

Celebrating at an intimate dinner soiree? The range is a bit wider for this category. Some parties are dressier than others. So how do you know what to wear?

Consider the host/hostess – are they formal or casual? If host/hostess dress to the nines most of the time – you should too! If they are more relaxed, their party will be too. What is the food situation? If it is a formal sit down, multi-course meal, it’s dressy. If it’s mingle, self-serve buffet style. It’s more casual.

Either way you have a wide range of options – going from most to least dressy here are some ideas:

AllSaints Aditya Dress

AllSaints Aditya Dress – this black wrap dress features the most beautiful, puffed hemline. The oversized collar, wrap waist and flowing hem create the most beautiful hourglass shape. This is my version of the perfect LBD (little black dress.) It is classic with a funky twist. Hair up is a must to show off this beautiful collared neckline. Stiletto boots – like stretch knee-high, ankle or booties add funk and edge. Pony hair animal print chunky heels do the trick too! Have fun with this one.

Navy, silk, ruffle top by Amanda Uprichard and champagne, silk, box pleat skirt with Stella & Dot floral necklace and Calvin Klein oversized gold weave belt

Navy, silk, ruffle top by Amanda Uprichard and champagne, silk, box pleat skirt with Stella & Dot floral necklace and Calvin Klein oversized gold weave belt are a bit more casual but still dress the part.

Black leather skirt by Vince, fur vest by Du Monde, black t-shirt by Rubbish and three strands of black beads by H&M

Black leather skirt by Vince, fur vest by Du Monde, black t-shirt by Rubbish and three strands of black beads by H&M offer an edgy, fun yet comfy option for a more hanging-out get together. Hair pulled back in a sleek, low pony keeps the look clean and edgy. The leather skirt can be substituted for skinny black jeans too.

Fun, long sleeve t-shirt, maybe leopard PJ bottoms and pink fuzzy slippers.

Hanging with friends for a super casual get together? Yup one of my favorites! PJs baby! Some years you’re just not into all the hubbub of NYE! So go with it and go comfy! Fun, long sleeve t-shirt, maybe leopard PJ bottoms and pink fuzzy slippers. Pair it with a ponytail and no jewelry. Comfy and cute!

To find these pieces and ones similar visit any of the Nordstrom Rackstores, either Neiman Marcus Last Call locations or Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th Outlet locations. Additional merchandise can be bought online at AllSaints and Stella & Dot.

Tricia is an Image Consultant, style guru, writer, marketer, blogger and style addict. Through her Image Consulting services Tricia helps women of all shapes, sizes and ages with their image and style needs. As a marketer and writer Tricia puts her ideas, tips and expertise to good use via the StylishShe website and blog, Facebook, twitter, style articles, and soon…her book. Visit www.stylishshe.comto learn more.

Click here to read the article on CBSDFW.com!

My actual query I sent via The Source Bottle about the rise of Pinterest….

Yes I use and love Pinterest! I use it both for personal and business purposes.

I am a  writer and Personal Stylist. I use Pinterest to gather, organize and reference many of my interests and desires. I pin items of interest from a large variety of sources. When i pin, from outside sources, i site the source, website, product name, dimensions, and PRICE. This allows me to quickly reference, compare and determine which product will work best for my needs.

My home decor board (personal use – but very easily could be used as interior design business resource) - http://pinterest.com/stylishshe/home-decor/ - On this board I am quite interested in mirrors, chandeliers, pillows and bedding. I have included all of the relevant buying information I need to make a smart, educated and fiscally responsible purchases.

My mens board (business resource for me) - http://pinterest.com/stylishshe/mens/ - I am working wit h a four member alternative rock band on their image. I use Pinterest to gather ideas for their style and image needs. This allows me to do preliminary work without wasting time. I can pull ideas and share with them which allows us all to be on the same page as well as gives them the creative input they desire.

Business ideas and recommendations:

As of right now Pinterest is a fun resource but there is enormous potential as a business tool. For image consultants or interior designers. Taking the medium to a whole different level by making it a destination for consultants/designers and their clients.

Example:  I am an image consultant – let’s say I have 20 clients. I would want 20 separate account/closets/boards (one for each client) that I could upload all of their existing outfit photos (http://gallery.me.com/triciadubrow#100025&bgcolor=black&view=carouseljs&sel=0). From this point I could pin new clothing items that I recommend that would enhance their wardrobe. In order to do this I would want a number of separate (yet connected – to me as the master account holder) accounts for each client. There is huge potential for this type of resource as there is NOTHING out there today that has this kind of capability. It also eliminates geographical boundries too. But do keep in mind – some clients may not want their entire closet and my recommendations to be public – so they may need to be private.

I hope you find this information of interest. I look forward to hearing back from you.”

Check out my last Pinterst post too….

Invitation, check.

Outfit, check.

Hostess gift, aaaaaaahhhh not yet.

What do they like? What should I get? OOOOOHHHH I just don’t know. Here are some ideas around Fort Worth that will get your creative juices flowing!

Hostess gifts can range from simple and cute to elaborate and expensive. My personal range is between $15-$40. Typically landing in the $20-$30 range.

When creating a hostess gift I try to select items that hit all three of these categories because it makes for the best and most original gifts.

Clear – I love clear packaging. First, because it’s pretty, but more importantly you see what’s inside. If your gift is in a clear package, vase or container the hostess can see the gift, comment how creative it is AND anyone else around can see it too. It is a great icebreaker and topic of conversation. LOVE THAT!

Gift-in-a-gift – If the packaging, vase or container is glass than it’s a gift in itself. And the goodies inside are too. Bonus! Two gifts in one.

Personalized – This is two fold: First, to me personalized means that you have selected the gift exactly to and for that person. If they love the ocean or are from the seacoast give them a tall clear jar full of blown glass balls from old lobster traps. They are so beautiful! Second take personalization to the next level and literally create a gift for them. I love the idea of customizing a belt for a close friend in her favorite colors, school colors or theme.

So what to bring if you’re going to a party thrown by your spouse’s boss – that you really don’t know?

Photo Credit: Tricia Mahoney

Photo Credit: Tricia Mahoney

Photo Credit: Tricia Mahoney

Best Friend’s Annual Holiday Party:

Photo Credit: Tricia Mahoney

Photo Credit: Tricia Mahoney

Other ideas:

Wine lover – Clear glass bowl, two wine glasses, bottle of wine and The Pisces Fish Multi-lever corkscrew, Amazon.com $34.99 (my favorite wine opener!) Based on the glasses and wine you select it can be as expensive as you choose it to be.

Christmas Party – Clear glass, covered, tall, jar and fill it with vintage Christmas ornaments. Festive and pretty!

Chocoholic – Clear glass, tall jar – take tall thin plastic bags and fill one bag with M&M’s, one with Hershey Kisses, one with Recees Peanut Butter Cups and one with Rolo’s. Put all bags upright in the jar. Yum, yum!

Tip: putting together a thoughtful gift does take time. Plan ahead and buy in advance. Have a stash of goodies that you can pull from at anytime or better yet assemble a few and store them in your closet. You will be very thankful you did!

Where you can find these goodies:

World Market

4701 West Freeway #400

Fort Worth, TX 76107

817.737.8370

TJ Maxx

4730 Southwest Loop 820

Fort Worth, TX 76109

817.737.2797

Pei Wei

5900 Overton Ridge #130

Fort Worth, TX 76132

817.294.0808

peiwei.com

Hobby Lobby

5020 South Hulen Street

Fort Worth, TX 76132

817.423.2072

Tricia is an Image Consultant, style guru, writer, marketer, blogger and style addict. Through her Image Consulting services Tricia helps women of all shapes, sizes and ages with their image and style needs. As a marketer and writer Tricia puts her ideas, tips and expertise to good use via the StylishShe website and blog, Facebook, twitter, style articles, and soon…her book. Visit www.stylishshe.com to learn more.

Check out the this article on CBS!

For fall a.hooper & co. is right on trend – long flowing maxi-dresses, luscious capes, sultry knits, jewel toned silk blouses, shorts (which are PERFECT for our Texas climate!) and small florals (which Emily pointed out she was very specific with her selection to be sure that these florals didn’t look or feel too ‘cowboy’.) Brands include high-end classics like Trina Turk, Ella Moss, Velvet, Michael Stars and Joie as well as some more cutting edge like Karina Grimaldi, Graham and Spencer, Young Fabulous & Broke, Gemma, Parker and Madison Marcus.

And if you’re into jewelry – you will love the jewelry at a.hooper co. It’s cool, hip, and bold. There is great mix of delicate and dainty pieces as well as show stopping drama pieces. OOO La La! Most of the jewelry is designed by Texas native Amanda Sterett. Supporting local artists – love that!

CBSDFW.com Insider Tip: When you visit the store, be sure to say hello to their little furry helpers…. Lyle, Emily’s golden retriever and Layla, Nancy’s long-haired Chihuahua.

Tricia is an Image Consultant, style guru, marketer, blogger and style addict. Through her Image Consulting services Tricia helps women of all shapes, sizes and ages with their image and style needs. As a marketer and writer Tricia puts her ideas, tips and expertise to good use via the StylishShe website and blog, Facebook, twitter, style articles, and soon…her book. Visit www.stylishshe.com to learn more.