HOW TO START PRACTICING YOGA FROM A YOGI: HEALING, KNOWLEDGE & FASHION

Q: Can you tell me about your yoga journey? Why you started, what you've gained, and why you've started teaching?

A: I started practicing yoga about 3 years ago because a friend of mine who was also a Pilates instructor taught yoga as well and encouraged me to try her classes. I was pretty much immediately hooked because it made my body feel so good. As a former ballet dancer, I was used to moving my body in unnatural ways that left me with damaged ligaments and tendons years later. Moving with purpose and attention with the asanas (physical yoga postures) just felt right. I felt like I was healing a lot of the damage I had inflicted on my body from nearly two decades of rigorous ballet training. I also just felt better mentally. Being a type A personality and naturally anxious person, the feeling that I got at the end of a yoga practice was something I couldn't explain, but I knew I wanted more of it. My stress levels dropped significantly and by learning to breathe through tough postures, I learned how to breathe through challenges in my life as well. I decided to become a teacher last year because the changes that I went through in my life were astounding and I thought that if I could share that with people, what a gift it would be. I completed my 200 hour Registered Yoga Teacher Training at Vibe Yoga in Bloomington, Indiana this winter and have been teaching as much as I possibly can!

Q: What separates a good yoga teacher from a bad one?

A: I have yet to come across a "bad" yoga teacher. I think that--assuming the instructor is properly qualified--there really is no good or bad, just what you as a student need or want. I have many friends who are yoga instructors that I love dearly as people but I choose not to practice with them because what they offer is not what I need. And vice versa! Plenty of yoga instructors at my studio are regulars in my classes and some aren't. And that's ok! I'm not offended if someone doesn't feel me as an instructor. We all bring different experiences and teaching styles to the studio so finding the instructors you feel comfortable with is important. Sometimes challenging yourself to take a class you may not typically enjoy is exactly what you need too! Honoring what you need day to day is important. Some days you may need a teacher with a loud speaking voice and tons of energy and other days your body or your mind might need a more relaxing, quiet class. Becoming aware of your needs is important and seeking out different instructors and styles of yoga is a great thing to do.

Q: Any tips for beginners?

A: My advice for beginners is to just try it! Don't worry if you're not flexible. We all start that way! So what if you can't touch your toes, you know? Remember that yoga is a practice and not a performance, and know that each day is a learning experience. Sometimes those days that are bad for your ego (where you fall on your face or can't balance, etc) are actually great for your soul. We don't start out our yoga practice being able to do perfect handstands and crazy looking back bends, but by putting in the work you eventually get there. There's no fun in being the best at something you have just started because there's no challenge, nothing to look forward to, nothing to achieve. So be okay with being a beginner, embrace each part of the journey and know that no one in a yoga studio will judge you for anything.

Q: Are there any groups people who you'd caution against practicing yoga or is it beneficial for all?

A: I wouldn't caution anyone against yoga. There is a type of yoga for literally everyone. There is chair yoga for the elderly or handicapped, prenatal, even prison yoga for those who are incarcerated! If you have any issues, I would certainly do some research and seek out a type of yoga that is appropriate for you, or at least let your instructor know what's going on so he or she can guide you through class safely. At my studio we have a blind woman who practices some pretty intense vinyasa classes several times per week. As long as someone guides her into the studio she is good to go! It's really remarkable and I am in awe of her. So yes, yoga is for all.

Q: I tend to avoid yoga because every time I've done it I'm incredibly sore the next day. What can one do to avoid soreness and injury?

A: Soreness is a natural bodily response and as long as its not debilitating, it's not harmful. Drinking lots of water to help flush the lactic acid out of your system will definitely help quell the soreness and by continuing to practice, you will be less and less sore. Sometimes some gentle stretching or a leisurely walk can help out with soreness as well. A lot of the injuries that I see in the studio are completely and totally avoidable. Knowing your body and what it is and is not ready for is important. Maybe you really want to get up into a headstand but your shoulders are not quite strong enough. This is a great example of when you should back off and not let your ego get in the way. Build your strength, then play. Most yoga postures are very safe but there are a few that can be dangerous, the headstand being one of them. Listen to your instructor, but most importantly listen to your body and practice patience when something doesn't feel right. If an instructor tries to force you into a pose or adjusts your body in a way that doesn't feel good, it's your right to let them know and/or take a child's pose and skip something that isn't working for you. Remember it's your practice, your body and you are always in control.

Q: Any yoga tips for women with lower back or neck pain? What about those with ankle or knee pain?

A: I could literally write a book on lower back pain. I think this is the number one complaint I get. A lot of lower back pain, especially in men, is due to tight hamstrings so yoga is perfect for that. There are definitely tons of other reasons but by moving the spine in all directions like we do in every yoga class, it will help to keep the spine supple yet strong which helps alleviate low back pain as well. You should be careful with neck pain you should be careful with. Always get the "okay" from your doctor when dealing with neck issues. That said, just being careful with shoulder stand, headstand, or any other poses with lots of flexion (forward bending) or weight bearing on the neck is important. Modifications are available for all poses and qualified instructors will know how to cue those modifications in class for any type of injury. Just make sure to let the instructor know! Remember also that blocks, straps, bolsters, blankets and straps are your friends.

Q: We all want to look like the svelte, sexy yogi advertised in brand ads (or better yet, you!) and so we invest in classes, mats and clothing. Many women are familiar with lulu lemon, but which other yoga clothing brands have you come to appreciate and why?

A: Lululemon is definitely a favorite among yogis because of the quality of the product, attention to detail, fun colors and great fit of the clothing. There are some other fantastic brands out there as well. My favorite yoga pants are from a brand named Teeki and they have the most fun prints! The pants are made from recycled plastic bottles too which I think is so cool. They are incredibly comfortable and fit really well. Hardtail has a really cute yoga line as well. Some other brands I really like include Onezie clothing, Lucy Activewear, and Zobha; Shakti Activewear makes the most adorable tops and bras! Lately I've been scouring Etsy for homemade yoga clothing and have found some really great, unique pieces. On a budget, Target has been coming out with some pretty awesome stuff lately and TJMAXX always has a great selection as well. I love the coziness of Alternative Apparel's hoodies and sweatpants for post practice.

Q: What kinds of considerations should one take into account when shopping for yoga clothing? Any tips for avoiding the dreaded camel toe?

A: I tend to avoid wearing shorts because I mainly practice heated vinyasa classes and with all the sweat it makes it nearly impossible to do arm balances on slippery, sweaty legs! I really like the Wunder Under Crops from lululemon because they're not as heavy and hot as full length pants but the material is long enough so there's traction to balance. Unfortunately, I am not endowed with big awesome boobs, but I hear lululemon makes an awesome sports bra (The Tata Tamer) for big busted women. For the most part, my Teeki and lululemon pants hide the camel toe. Looking for a diamond or triangle shaped gusset in the crotch of the pants will help alleviate camel toe. Additionally, I like to wear tops that are not super skin tight just as a personal preference, but I don't like tops so baggy that when I'm upside down, they're in my face. I'm a big fan of the no limits tank from lululemon, as well as the basic tri-blend racer back tanks from American Apparel or Alternative Earth.

Q: Where can we find you?

A: I teach hot power vinyasa classes at Vibe Yoga and Pilates Studio, vinyasa flow at Hoosier CrossFit, and private and group equipment classes at Lotus Pilates all in Bloomington, Indiana. Ellie has 600 hr. Comprehensive Pilates Certification, as well as, the 200 RYT mentioned above.

Follow Ellie's pages on facebook and instagram (@eatwithellie).

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HOW TO: SELECT THE PROPER FOOTWEAR FOR A YACHT PARTY

We wanted to pass along some tips for ladies attending parties aboard yachts in warm conditions focusing specifically on footwear. Follow StW on twitter; StW stylist, Schuanne, will release her handpicked choices and tips for cocktail attire appropriate for wear on yachts. Her expert picks will apply to parties occurring in warm climates.

photo courtesy of: Sperry Topsider

1. Unlike celeb inspired photos would lead you to believe, heels are NOT appropriate for several reasons. In fact, you should rule out heels and hard bottomed shoes. Here's why:

• You plan on drinking?.
• It's difficult to balance in heels on a boat. You don't want to be the girl who trips and falls, sprains her ankle or worse, unintentionally slips overboard.
• Heels and hard-bottomed shoes scratch and scuff the boat's surface, which is an insult to your host. If your host isn't visibly cringing, trust he or she is cursing the name of any woman boarding with 5" heels strapped to her ankles.

2. Wear flats. If you insist on height, wear wedges. Be sure whatever shoe you wear is rubber bottomed with siping. Siping is a process of cutting thin slits across a rubber surface to improve traction in wet or icy conditions.

• As alluded to above, you want maximum stability, comfort and traction on what is bound to be a dynamic and potentially slippery boat deck.
  
  photo courtesy of: Sperry Topsider

3. Like heels, flip flops aren't the best.

• They will not hold your ankles stationary. Can you wear them? Sure, but we recommend shoes that are more secure.

4. The lighter your shoe sole's color the better. Do NOT wear black bottomed shoes.

• Dark and black soles will leave marks on the otherwise pristine deck. We know you wouldn't dare be a rude guest. Ideally your soles will be white, but tan will do too.

Sperry Topsider is the authority in this space. We recommend starting with Sperry's website when looking for shoes for your next yacht party.

WHAT TO WEAR TO WORK: ACADEMIC, HEALTHCARE OR NONPROFIT PROFESSIONAL

On Tuesday, we provided examples of how to dress if you work as a creative. Today, we want to offer women who are: scientists, doctors, professors, marketing professionals, interpreters, admissions officers, clinical coordinators, guidance counselors, nonprofit program directors, project managers, etc who generally work in business casual environments some ideas for what to wear to work.

Your dress must be more conservative than a creative's, but you can still wear patterns (limit animal print), bright colors when anchored by neutrals like gray, brown, white, and black. Make sure all of your clothing is finished, pressed and shoes polished--no frayed edges, rips, wrinkles or scuffs. Keep hemlines no higher than six inches above your knee. TIP: Wearing the same color or color family head to toe as pictured below is slimming.

For footwear, a three to four inch pump or lower is your best friend, but you can get away with wearing open toe sandals as well. For color, keep your pumps conservative colors. You may wear flat sandals in almost any color you desire, though we caution against metallics and neons. Speaking of accessories, notice the Celine tote Miranda Kerr is carrying? We recommended it a few months ago as one of many work suitable totes.

Have trouble matching work separates in your wardrobe? Need guidance on suit selection? Contact us. We'll guide you through selecting the best work outfits for you from pieces already in your closet or shopping for new items. We'll tailor a plan according to your preferences, needs and budget. StW Service Listing

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WHAT TO WEAR TO WORK: AS A CREATIVE PROFESSIONAL

Congratulations to the hundreds of thousands of women who recently graduated from bachelor, master, and doctorate programs. We are so proud of you! Our next couple posts are for you and women out there who need career related style advice. Ask yourself, "Does my career tool belt include a sense of how to properly convey the image I wish to project in the workplace?" If the answer isn't an emphatic "YES," then dress yourself appropriately in your new work environment with StW's handpicked examples and tips. Please note that your company's culture and dress code take precedence over the advice below.

If you are a creative (e.g., graphic designer, jewelry designer, writer, musician, interior decorator, social media director, blogger, perfumer, fashion PR director), guess what? You can wear just about anything you want: prints, textured pieces, bold colors, statement jewelry, sleeveless, fitted clothing (but not like you're heading to a club), 5" high heels, distressed jeans and leather, sneakers, etc. TIP: Steer clear of anything that exposes too much cleavage, and if you wear a short, fitted skirt, do NOT pair it with a pair of sky high heels. The time and place for that combination is in no way your workplace.

Below are a few outfit examples, but don't stop here. You can wear long, flowing maxi skirts, rompers, shorts, t-shirts, etc. Head over to our facebook page today, July 30th, at 3P EST to view one more outfit suggestion. Are you a creative? What is your favorite work ensemble?

HOW TO: KEEP YOUR WHITES WHITE & BRIGHT THIS SUMMER

I know I'm not the only one who has bought cute white dresses, pants, shirts, etc. and thought: "Great! Now how the hell am I going to keep this clean?" One too many bike rides, wine tastings and picnics can do any white garment in, so how do you guard the bright in your white? photo courtesy of Karla's Closet and also seen as the Styled to Wear Look of the Day

1. ROLL TIDE. Buy yourself a Tide to Go pen! Erase any evidence of an intoxicated accidental stumble and spill. The proof is in the check marks, ladies! I've used TtG pens during photo shoots, nights out, brunch and I vouch for their efficacy. TIP: Place a clean white paper towel underneath the stained fabric directly beneath the stain. Rub your cleaning solution into the stain in a circular motion. Continuously dab the stained surface from both sides, moving the paper towel so that you are only dabbing onto a clean surface beneath. The towel beneath will help draw out the stain's pigment leaving you with white lies to tell. What fall?

photo courtesy of: Mark Weiss

2. WASH IT OUT. Wash your whites after every use and as soon as possible. Body oils and perspiration may not be visible on whites immediately after wear, but boy will they become nasty, unwanted blemishes marking your crisp whites for disposal if you let them set. TIP: Lemon juice acts as a natural bleach for whites, and baking soda is a great fabric softener. Some people swear by Rit as a super stain remover, but you can read the reviews for yourself.

photo courtesy of: House to Home

2. IT'S DINGHY NOT DINGY. If you're toting around dingy whites instead of being towed to a yacht on the open water in a dinghy it's time to add vinegar to soften your water and/or rid your whites of soap residue. Minerals in hard water and soap residue can build up in your clothing and linens to make your pretty whites appear gray and or dingy. Vinegar will help remove unwanted minerals and residue embedded in clothing fibers. Add about 1/2 cup to the fabric softener tray or just throw it in at the beginning of a cycle. TIP: If your clothing has already turned 50 shades of Gray--for the love of...tell me you've read that trilogy and don't judge me--then rinse your machine by running the rinse cycle a few times to ensure it, itself is clean. Then run your whites in just water. Soak them if you have to pay to do laundry. Then use vinegar as suggested above.

photo courtesy of: Martha Stewart Living. Check out the article. It discusses bluing as a better course of whitening garments than bleach.

3. WHITE HOT. Wash your whites in hot water unless otherwise specified on the clothing label. The heat makes your soap more effective.

photo courtesy of: Pincookie.com

4. FOLLOW RECIPES. I've not tried this myself, but I read Lindsay Maxfield's endorsement for this recipe (below). It received an A- grade compared to a number of other methods that failed dismally. You'll need bleach, dishwasher detergent and water.

photo courtesy of: Agent Bauer (photo was cropped)

"Let your dirtiest whites soak for 30-60 minutes, then toss everything into the washer with the rest of your whites and run a cycle. I used a little less bleach than suggested and put everything into a bucket. While this method didn’t get the toughest stains out of my husband’s mud-covered socks, it still delivered."  

5. SUNSHINE. Not only does the sun supply our skin with much needed vitamin D, but also it brightens your white Rag & Bone jeans. Don't ask me how, but it does.

photo courtesy of: Andie Edwards

6. SHOES. To clean white shoes, I recommend using a tooth brush applicator and mild cleaning solution like dish soap and water. Dab wet sections and if you've used a fair amount of water stuff shoes with dry towels to absorb the water. Place shoe stretcher in shoe for shape once dry. Buff with white shoe polish.

photo courtesy of: 3.1 Philip Lim. White shoes and more are trending for spring/summer 2013.

Which tactics do you employ to keep your whites their whitest? Please share them in the comments section.

SPRING CLEANING CHECKLIST, CLEANING OUT YOUR CLOSET

Perform a mini closet edit each season to keep your closet organized and fresh, and optimize your shopping experiences. As spring approaches, we are increasingly bombarded with messages of new trends to try and items we must buy. In fact, next week I'll discuss a few spring/summer trends, but hopefully in a more practical way for you. Before committing to adding new items to your closet this season, I urge you to think about what's already there. Here are 6 simple steps to help you make good on that popular New Year's Eve resolution of cleaning and organizing your wardrobe. These tips will help you kickoff a more informed approach to spring shopping.

photo courtesy of: Enjoy-your-style.com

1. Check your emotions (i.e., nostalgia) at your closet door. Once you've put on your objective eyeglasses, open the door and immediately remove all items that: no longer fit, you're embarrassed to wear, are permanently stained (ahem, pit stains), damaged, faded or pilled beyond recognition. That goes for shoes too!

2. Organize your clothing by category (e.g., tops, skirts, pants) and color within each category.

3. Remove any items that can be restored with tailoring or repaired within reasonable cost. Get them fixed or determine how to re-purpose them; I can help.

4. Remove any winter items that really cannot be used during the spring or summer months. Clean and store them.

5. Take all the items from #1 above and dispose of them. DO NOT STORE THEM IN YOUR HOME. Don't suffer the trap of deceiving yourself into thinking they still look good because of old memories. They don't.

6. Take note of holes in your wardrobe (some essentials). Consider trends and what you're willing or excited to try, which should be based on your style, style goals and what flatters you. Take your body measurements, and finally go shopping. Styled to Wear provides a Wardrobe Cleanse & Rejuvenation service. Inquire for details or shop services directly.

photo courtesy of: Hookedonhouses.net

HOW TO: TAKE 7 BODY MEASUREMENTS WOMEN SHOULD KNOW

We all wear clothing like jackets, bras, blouses, dresses, skirts, and pants. There are dozens of measurements one may take to find a precise fit for any of the garments mentioned above whether shopping for them online, in stores or having them custom made. However, the seven below are most critical. They will help you find suitable fitting garments for you. I encourage you to check your measurements and know them well, ladies, especially before you shop for spring clothing and or transition garments while you work towards your beach body.

1. SHOULDERS- I have broad shoulders. It's difficult to find jackets that fit me correctly, but knowing my shoulder width allows me to make decisions that fit. Measure from edge of shoulder bone to base of neck and over to other shoulder bone edge (should be arched, as pictured). TIP: Check for lack of free range of motion in the arms, and puckering along the back center seam. If either exist while you're trying on a jacket move on because the shoulders are cut too small for you.

2. SLEEVE LENGTH- Long sleeves should stop at your wrist bone. So if you hold a top up matching the center of the collar to the center of your neck, the armhole seam should align with the dot at the edge of the shoulder bone above. Placing your arms at 90 degrees, the end of the sleeve should stop at your wrist bone. Otherwise, the sleeves are too short. Though, shirts that stretch may not fit this standard. Follow the same path with tape measure.

3. BUST- Being well dressed starts with the basics. Ever notice a woman in a beautiful top with rolls of flesh peaking out above and below her brassiere? It's because her bra is too small! 75-85% of women wear the wrong bra size. Don't be a statistic. To measure your bust find the fullest part of your chest. Wrap the tape measure around your body at this point, wrapping the tape underneath your underarms and ending at your starting point; be sure the tape measure is level all the way around. Use a mirror or friend to help! Watch these two videos on how to find your bra size and learn about proper fit: 1 and 2.

4. WAIST- Avoid appearing like encased sausage. Measure your waist then get clothing that flatters and defines it. This is important for tops and dresses, especially those made from materials or sewn so that they don't stretch. To measure your waist stand up straight, bend slightly to your side, and place the measuring tape at the natural crease that forms. Measure your circumference from that point.

5. HIPS- Know this measurement so your pencil skirt glides gracefully over your thighs allowing you to strut your stuff like Sophia Vergara starring in your own Pepsi commercial. Reason enough to put down those Spanx and pick up a tape measure, no? Wrap the tape measure from the widest part of your hip around your buttocks, front and back to your starting point. Be sure the tape measure is level around your body.

6. THIGHS- No one wants their circulation cut off by their pants! Measure the circumference of your thighs at their fullest part.

7. INSEAM- To find the perfect length for your spring/summer pant suit measure your inseam from the upper most part of your thigh to your ankle. TIP: If you plan to wear heels with your suit and your pants are not tapered to stop at the ankle ALWAYS take into account heel height!

Moreover, taking your measurements allows you to determine your body type and from there, to wear the clothing best suited for you, which can only show you in your best light.

For a consultation where I personally take your measurements and prescribe the best silhouettes and colors for you, contact Styled to Wear or shop our services at www.styledtowear.com.

HOW TO: DRESS FOR A PANEL DISCUSSION OR KEYNOTE ADDRESS

South by Southwest (SXSW), an annual and highly anticipated conference and festival in Austin, Texas, conjured thoughts of the hundreds of panelists, especially women, who are likely working to refine their remarks, fill their conference schedules with entertaining events, and pack their bags in preparation. So, just what is appropriate attire for you Ms. Panelist or Keynote Address Speaker?

Lend your professional expertise to a panel or deliver the keynote address without sweating over your appearance by considering these three things before your next speaking engagement:

1. Conference Dress Code- Is it business formal, business casual, casual sport, casual? Check the invitation or program.

2. Venue- Always assume you will be in an air-conditioned environment, unless outdoors.

3. Industry Dress Code/Your Audience- Adhere to the standard dress of your industry and always keep in mind who will be in the audience listening to and observing you. This is a subtle point. For instance, if your conference will be held at a golf resort and the event calls for casual sport dress, then save your bold golf outfits (no shorts too shorts, tops too tight or revealing) for your local course at home. Remember, you are among your colleagues and you want to be remembered for your ideas, not your eccentric outfit. That by no means, means drab attire but your ensemble should support you not speak over you.

No matter the environment, my personal preference and professional advice is to wear a dress or skirt and keep a jacket or sweater at my disposal.

Business Professional Dress Code at a Conference Center or Private Club (i.e., The Harvard Club) 

Always wear with matching jacket! This dress doesn't come with one, but I wanted to illustrate that a dress can be conservative without being boring. SHOP the LOOK: Ted Baker dress (Just Cavalli pant suit alternative), Jimmy Choo Abel Court shoe (cheaper Boutique 9 Justine patent leather shoe alternative) 

Business Casual Dress Code at SXSW

Jackets are optional, but bring one that coordinates with your ensemble and fits you well. SHOP the LOOK: Issa wrap dress, Dries Van Noten shoes (alternative Etro shoes)

Casual Sport Dress Code at a Resort Destination (i.e., Scottsdale Resort & Conference Center) 

Be sure to keep a linen blazer on hand like this linen twill blazer by Chloe or Acne's Cindy blazer. Here's some advice on how to select the best blazer for you. Never wear spaghetti straps or strapless tops unless you will cover your shoulders with a jacket AT ALL TIMES. SHOP the LOOK: Gucci dress (pant alternative), Kenzo animal print flat, Miu Miu patent bicolor ballet flat, Brian Atwood Avignon ballet flat

RE-PURPOSE ITEMS IN YOUR CLOSET: THE MINI DRESS

After a dizzying conversation about skyrocketing rents in New York and Boston, I ask friend and rockstar writer, Karyn Polewaczyk, how a woman is to afford a Carrie Bradshaw lifestyle while contending with menacing rents. The answer, make more money. Are you tackling a similar issue? Increasing the size of your take home pay is generally a long term fix. At the intersection of our lifestyles and closets lies a short term solution, re-purpose and re-use.

Here's a simple example. You need a new blouse for work? That mini dress is made for more than shimmying to THIS.

Throw on your non-cleavage bearing mini dress, pull on a skirt over it or a pair of pants (only if the dress doesn't bunch in your trousers) and pair with a jacket, as needed. Voila! You have stretched your closet.

SHOP the LOOK: Calvin Klein dress, Celine tote bag (Sold out; more to choose from HERE), Lanvin cap toe pump, Dolce & Gabbana button front pencil skirt

I'll continue to show you more ways to stretch your closet in the future under this themed post title, "Re-purpose Items In Your Closet," so stay tuned.

HOW TO: LOSE WEIGHT & LOOK GOOD DOING IT

"Lose Weight" and "Get Fit" are two of the most popular New Year's resolutions. Have you kept yours? If you have a significant amount of weight to lose, and you've kept your resolution to date, then you've likely lost 10+ pounds since January 1st. 10 pounds usually translates to the difference of one clothing size. Brava! As you continue to lose weight it's important that you wear clothing that fits you for two reasons.

photo of Beyonce courtesy of: Giselle

1) Replacing your old, baggy clothing with better fitting clothing eliminates the lingering thought that it may be okay to go back to the size you were. Moreover, well-fitting clothing enables you to see the progress you are making toward a healthier you, and thus serves as motivation. It's true that if you look good, you feel good. 

2) First impressions count and so do seconds, thirds and dozens. It's important to present your best self each time you leave your home whether you're running errands or heading to work, the gym, or spa.

During your weight loss phase get new clothing every 10 to 15 pounds you shed. Purchase basics that are within your means. I highly recommend that even if you have money to spare, you purchase clothing on the cheaper end. Look for knits and items with stretch. Here are a few items I would recommend purchasing during your journey: A-line and tulip skirts, loose dolman sleeve blouses, wide leg trousers (especially with elastic waistband), knit wrap dresses. If you purchase patterns, the smaller you become the smaller the pattern should become. TIP: add belts to dresses and skirts that hang looser  as you drop the pounds, in order to better define your waist in the garment. Hover over images below and use arrows that become visible to view all items available for the new and changing you. Click on the item you like for enlarged view and direct purchase.

Donate clothing as you discard them to help the needy and benefit from the tax break. Alternatively, consign them and/or donate proceeds to charities like The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

For personal counsel on how to transition your look and wardrobe successfully please visit styledtowear.com to view and purchase available services or contact us at info@styledtowear.com or 646.543.3526.

HOW TO: 6 WAYS TO WINTERIZE YOUR SPRING OR SUMMER WARDROBE

To get the most wear out of your spring/summer apparel (and save money)--whether you're pulling clothing out of storage or buying new pieces now--re-purpose them for winter use. Here are a few ways how.

1. MAXI DRESS + SWEATER + STOLE

photo courtesy of: dressinterest.com

2. SKIRT + PANTS

photo courtesy of: style.com

3. TURTLENECK + SUMMER DRESS

photo courtesy of: BCBG

4. SHORTS + TIGHTS

photo courtesy of: blondepisodes.com

5. SANDALS + STOCKINGS/SOCKS

photo courtesy of: street tonic

6. TANK + OFF THE SHOULDER SWEATER

photo courtesy of: figgleaffashion

HOW TO: WEAR A CROP TOP OR SWEATER WITH OR WITHOUT FLAT ABS

It's no secret that crop tops are trending now. I must admit I love them (in some of their incarnations), but I'm not necessarily able or ready to unveil washboard abs whenever I want to wear one. Last year around this time, I pulled one out from my closet to wear to a friend's NFL Superbowl party. Faced with the same predicament, I decided to pair it with a semi-sheer top in the same color family. The blend was genius, and I'm not only speaking from an aesthetic point of view!!!

So, you can imagine my excitement when over the last few months I've noticed images popping up on Pinterest of women like Joan Smalls and a model styled by Free People implementing the same camouflaging, flattering and put together strategy. It works, ladies! Not comfortable with bearing midriffs, but like crop tops? You can still leave some things to the imagination and enjoy them. Here is your solution!

photo courtesy of: Stockholm-StreetStyle.com

photos courtesy of (l) to (r): Free People; Rtister and altered by Styled to Wear

A LOOK BACK TO MOVE FORWARD: 2013 RESOLUTIONS

As we all look toward the New Year for new beginnings and set resolutions to realize them, I thought I'd share some of the Styled to Wear posts that may help you to carry out your 2013 New Year's resolutions successfully.

photo courtesy of: Elle magazine

RESOLUTIONS

1. LOSE WEIGHT, GET FIT- "PUSH IT! PUSH IT (LOOKIN') REAL GOOD!"

2. SAVE MONEY- "SHOP FOR FALL/WINTER 2012 NOW"

3. TRAVEL TO FAR FLUNG DESTINATIONS- "THE OCCASION: MARITIME GETAWAY MINTED"

4. GET INVOLVED IN A WORTHY CAUSE- "THE OCCASION: POLITICAL FUNDRAISER"

5. LEARN SOMETHING NEW/WORTHWHILE- "ARE YOU LIKE: ALI?, PART I"

6. ATTEND A CONCERT- "THE OCCASION: COACHELLA (FASHION) LINEUP"

7. INVEST IN SELF- Learn the best silhouettes, colors and more to avoid wasting precious time and money on clothing that doesn't best flatter you and enlist help to cleanse your closet of them too! Call a Styled to Wear personal stylist for your initial consultation today. 

Need help sticking to your resolutions? Here's a helpful a article. StW wishes you and your loved ones a happy and prosperous New Year!

HOW TO: BUY A WINTER COAT

When shopping for a winter coat there are elements to consider, pun intended. The climate, your comfort, body shape, tastes and budget should all play a role in your coat selection. and Both the outer and inner layers of your chosen coat are important for keeping you warm. The outer layer shields you against wind, rain and snow while the inner layer insulates you. As I describe coat types below I will outline important points to keep in mind concerning the inner and outer layers that keep you warm.

pictures courtesy of (l) to (r):  Maison Martin Margiela via Vogue Germany, Jil Sander coat via Lush, Luxe & Lovely, +J by Jil Sander for UNIQLO, Alexander Wang coat via Marie Claire, Kurt Geiger

COAT TYPE/COST:

FLEECE

• TYPES. 100, 200 and 300 weight, and Wind Proof. 100 and 200 are most breathable. 200 weight is the most used fleece. It can be used as a layer just beneath the outer layer or in moderate temperatures it may be used as outerwear. 300 weight should be used when warmth is more important to you than breathability and weight and can be worn as an outerlayer. WindProof is the least breathable because there's a protective wind proof layer within the fleece. Windproof fleece can be worn as an outerwear.
• ANTI-PILL. If you can, purchase anti-pill fleece because who wants unsightly pills all over their clothing? TIP on how to remove pills HERE.
• WATER PROOF. Fleece holds up decently in wet conditions as the material wicks moisture away, but obviously is not adequate protection during downpours.
• COST. Washing machine and dryer safe--inexpensive to maintain the look and feel of this garment.

WOOL

• LINING. For warmth it is incredibly important to get a lined wool coat.
• TAILORING. Wool coats tend to add bulk and have stiff, boxy shapes; there are exceptions of course, but I encourage trying on any coat, especially one made of wool, before purchase.
• WATER PROOF. Fleece holds up decently in wet conditions as the material wicks moisture away, but carry an umbrella.
• COST. Cashmere wool coats tend to be most expensive. Also wool coats require dry cleaning which can make them expensive to maintain.

DOWN FILLED

• FILL POWER. Down coats are rated by fill power. The range is typically 500 to 850; the higher the fill power the better. Fill power is a measure of "loft" or fluffiness. The higher the number, the more loft using fewer feathers. The more loft the more warmth, and the fewer the feathers the lighter in weight the coat. For good quality buy coats with fill power of 600+.
• SEAMS. The more stitching the more weak spots in the coat because there are no feathers in the seams. Also, the smaller the areas created by the seams the less warmth because the feathers have less room to loft. (If you skipped ahead read FILL POWER above.) Some coats circumvent that issue by building an extra inner layer of protection referred to as baffle. It's an extra layer of feathers that line the inside of the coat (covered with lining). TIP: Products like Seam Grip act as sealants against wind and water when applied to coat seams (apply to inside of coat only!!!).
• DOWN PROOF. It's hard to determine if your coat is made out of down proof fabric, but you want material that will effectively prevent feathers from escaping the coat, and secondly shield you from wind.
• WATER PROOF. Sometimes you can find a coat made with a waterproof shell. However, generally, down coats do not perform well under wet conditions, and slow to dry once exposed. Luckily they are washer and dryer safe. TIP: Place your coat in the dryer with tennis balls to re-fluff it. 
• COST. The higher the fill power, the extra insulating layer all cost more. I find that the more attractive coats that show real semblance to the feminine form are usually more expensive. Inexpensive to clean.

LEATHER

• WARMTH. Super warm. Should be lined.
• WATER PROOF. If treated, leather coats can be stand up against precipitation. However, I do not recommend excessive exposure to rain or snow. Be sure to condition your coat after exposure to moisture; how to HERE.
• COST. Expensive maintenance- send to specialized leather cleaner, but if you have to clean minimal soils then you can follow the instructions I give for leather gloves HERE (at your own risk). Always spot check for discoloration in an inconspicuous area on your leather garment before cleaning or treating it yourself.

SHEARLING/FUR

• QUALITY. Good quality coats state from where the fur originated. The best furs come from Europe and North America. Generally, the less the leather content the higher the coat quality--ask how much leather was used in the coat. Always check coat seams for proper stitching both lining and underside of the fur. There should be an opening in the lining where you can check the underside of the fur. Undyed furs are usually higher in quality than dyed. I recommend consulting a furrier to bone up on what to know about furs and price compare before making any purchase.
• WATER PROOF. Shearlings can be worn in rain and snow, however, I would not recommend exposing them to moisture. Furs are NOT water proof. Allow wet shearling/fur to air dry AWAY from heat.
• COST. Expensive maintenance-during the winter you should store your fur in a climate controlled storage vault, but if storing at home keep it in a cool, well-ventilated, roomy space away from natural or artificial light. Have a specialist clean any long hair and/or furs light in color once per year, and all others every couple years to maintain color and prolong life of the coat. Repair any damages immediately. Avoid using any chemicals, even perfume, near your coat.
• MY TWO CENTS. Go faux or stay warm in the comforts of your home. I can't claim that I don't indulge in animal skins because I own a leather jacket and several shoes and bags, which I've considered giving up and likely will one day with more worthwhile options being produced every day. I think fur is excessive; don't tar and feather me. (See what I did there? Excessive.)

FIT/STYLE:

• Can I move my arms freely?
• Are the sleeves long enough?
• Do I have enough room to wear a heavy sweater underneath?
• Does this color suit my complexion?
• Does this coat flatter my body?
• Detachable hood with discreet fastenings? (Optional, but I'm a fan of them for extra warmth and protection.)

HOW TO: PROTECT & CLEAN LEATHER GLOVES

Part of having a great wardrobe is caring for the clothing and accessories you have. Why invest your money if you're going to junk up your things after a few wears? You'll see posts where I provide tips on how to care for clothing items under the "Follow Care Instructions" title in the future. I thought I'd start with something relevant to my viewers in cities and countries around the world where it gets cold: UK, Deutschland, Canada, NY, Boston, Russia, Romania, Poland, Israel; the list goes on, so I want to pause to thank all of you for reading! I appreciate your interest and loyalty and I hope this blog helps you as much as it brings joy to me! Now, let's talk about caring for your leather gloves.

PROTECT your gloves before wearing them. Use a lint free cloth, paint or foam brush to gently apply a thin coat of leather conditioner to your newly purchased gloves. The conditioner will make the gloves softer, more flexible and help them last longer. Allow your gloves to dry completely before using them. TIP: Test the conditioner on a small, discreet area of your glove before applying to the entire surface. Conditioners can often darken the leather, which is normal, but you want to ensure that the conditioner will not create an undesired effect on the leather. I recommend Leather Honey Leather Conditioner; it's great quality for $16.

CLEAN your gloves when they become dirty. The cleaner depends on how dirty your gloves are. Mild soap that you'd use on your skin works if the gloves are slightly dirty, mild dish detergent if more soiled or saddle soap if there's more dirt to remove. Use a cloth or damp paper towel to rub and dab the soap into the material. Allow gloves to dry thoroughly after cleaning. TIP 1: If your gloves have mold in or on them use a three parts vinegar, one part water mixture to get rid of the mold. Clean as above and allow your gloves to dry completely inside and then out. Treat with conditioner, as above. TIP 2: Be careful not to apply excess pressure or water when cleaning your gloves as both may cause discoloration.

Your gloves will SERVE you much longer both as fashionable and functional accessories if you repeat the steps above as needed.

Picture above is from Roberto Cavalli Fall 2012 runway show found on Chaneland.

HOW TO: DRESS FOR YOUR OFFICE HOLIDAY PARTY

Holiday parties spell two things: fun and stress. I figured we could tackle one of the most important parties you'll attend this season, the one that could catapult your career to the next level, the office holiday party; also known to single gals looking to settle down as THE party, second only to the party where bachelorettes may meet their future Mr. Forevers. I'm told I'm a romantic. I digress. Here are some tips on what ladies should/can wear to their office holiday parties. You may shop these holiday looks and more curated by me through StW's page on Lyst.

For i-bankers, lawyers, consultants and all those working in business conservative workplaces office rules still apply. Keep your décolletage covered. If you choose to wear a dress or skirt, keep it simple, classic and at or no more than six inches above the knee. Of course, mid-calf dresses and skirts are options as well.

For professors, television producers, book publishers working in business casual environments spice up your shoes and wear funky accessories; the rules above apply. (Click images below for larger view.)

For Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, fashion editors, and art dealers hooray! You have the most latitude. You may be more flamboyant in your dress, but remember to keep balance in mind; follow Coco Chanel's advice and remove one accessory before leaving your home and keep your chest covered.

HOW TO: MIX PRINTS

This post is for women struggling to master or understand the art of mixing different prints. Mixed prints has been discussed ad nauseam during the Spring/Summer 2012 season so forgive me for joining the chorus, but I think because the trend figures prominently in designers' Fall/Winter 2012 and Resort 2013 collections it's worth covering. Here are a couple simple tips illustrated by a set that I created three years ago plus a few more.

1. The prints should be different sizes. Two large prints juxtaposed with each other tends to clash--the eye doesn't know where to focus. TIP: The larger print is most arresting. Place it on the body part you wish to enhance, NOT the one from which you wish to draw attention away.

2. Use prints in similar color families--this way they already have a common thread that binds them together to form a cohesive look.

3. For fall, think of employing textured fabrics that feature prints as a way of adding dimension and sophistication to your outfit. Think jacquard, lace, fishnet.

4. Check out this slide show for visual inspiration courtesy of Refinery 29.

5. Visit the StW facebook page for some mixed print looks off designer runways and the street tomorrow.

THE OCCASION: POLITICAL FUNDRAISER

What does one wear to a political fundraiser? One lucky donor will mull over that question before attending President Obama's birthday fete at his home in Hyde Park, Chicago on August 12th. With President Obama touring the country tirelessly working to increase dollars raised for his re-election campaign, there will be plenty of political fundraisers for all of us to attend. So what's the dress code?

article courtesy of: New York Post

BREAKFAST OR LUNCH with POTUS, FLOTUS or any political body or figure. Wear a smart suit (skirt or dress preferred) or dress (I recommend toting along a jacket). For the political set I would opt for close toed shoes and conservative colors, though brighter colors work in the spring and summer seasons. You are safe with black and darker shades of blue, gray, red, green, purple and neutrals.

photos courtesy of: style.com. Designers (l) to (r): Isaac Mizrahi, Bibhu Mohapatra, Oscar de la Renta, Armani Prive, Jason Wu

DINNER (not black tie). Wear a more embellished suit or knee length cocktail dress.

photos courtesy of: style.com. Designers (l) to (r): Barbara Tfank, Carolina Herrera, Elie Saab, Barbara Tfank, Armani Prive

BLACK TIE DINNER. Your best bet is to wear a long gown or skirt. You don't necessarily need to cover your shoulders, but I do NOT recommend wearing a dress that emphasizes cleavage. You do not want to appear overtly sexy at any political event. The sheer Valentino dress I show below would require you to wear a long slip to be appropriate.

photos courtesy of: style.com. Designers (l) to (r): Barbara Casasola, Carolina Herrera, Valentino, Bibhu Mohapatra, Carolina Herrera

TIP: Consider the anticipated average age of attendees. Generally, the older the constituents, the more conservative the dress.

HIGH/LOW SHOPPING

High/low shopping keeps your wardrobe fresh without breaking your piggy bank. Recent news of Nordstrom welcoming Topshop to its floors and Neiman Marcus partnering with Target to release a holiday collection are glaring signals of retailers' cognizance of shoppers' need for value and bargains. Brand equity aside, these partnerships will provide high/low shopping in one place so how does one go about high/low shopping in Nordstrom, Neimans or across the myriad of stores one visits?

WHEN TO BUY HIGH: The high end pieces in your wardrobe should be classics that will endure from season to season. They are essentials that you will wear frequently (with few exceptions). They may also be pieces of art that you foresee transcending a trend. I recently advised a client to choose sheath dresses with a twist; I recommended dresses by Mary Katrantzou and Peter Pilotto from their Spring/Summer 2012 collections as examples. Why? The sheath silhouette is timeless and flattering on her frame. She wanted to incorporate more colors into her wardrobe and she already does a good job of using accessories. Use of graphic prints are trendy now, but these particular dresses are so special that she can wear them through her 30s and well into her 60s and they will still resonate as beautiful, exquisite and unique. Moreover, they are quality pieces that can and will last that long. More examples of items to buy high:

photos from l to r: top row: Armani Collezioni suit, Michael Kors  classic, versatile camel sheath dress, Zac Posen cocktail dress @ Neiman Marcus, Burberry trench @ Burberry, Etro coat @ MyTheresa, Peter Pilotto sheath dress photo courtesy of style.com, Roland Mouret summer white sheath dress @ Neiman Marcus, Jean-Michel Cazabat pump @ shopbop, Valextra work tote @ Barneys, Mary Katrantzou photo courtesy of style.com

WHEN TO BUY LOW: Set aside fewer dollars for purchase of trendy pieces that will last a season or two. For example, while we are all gaga for neon this summer, we're not likely to be wearing neon everything in 2 years. Buy your neon jeans, purses, etc. at low price points. Above, I mention purchasing frequently worn essentials on the low end with few exceptions. A couple exceptions, in my opinion, are the white t-shirt, cotton button down and the jean. Some may want to strike me down after that statement, but the reality is one white t-shirt is NOT worth hundreds of dollars. I don't care what it's made of or the brand name stamped or stitched onto it. AND white t-shirts wear quickly when worn frequently. The same goes for white collared shirts. Because you are likely wearing the collared shirt to work, go to Banana Republic or J.Crew for items with some staying power. Don't waste your money on anything more expensive. Oh the blue jean; I've bought high and low. Jean styles change frequently--from level of distress, washes, pocket sizes, to cut. In my opinion it makes more sense to spend a bit less. However, if you find a designer brand that never fails you-purchase 1 or 2 pairs as your staples and wear them until they can go no more.

Finally, my past Look a Like posts embody the high/low spirt so check them out HERE.

Articles on Nordstrom/Topshop and Neiman Marcus/Target pairings HERE and HERE.