{Frocks of Gibralter} One Dress Five Ways

Every woman needs one great dress each season that becomes a go-to piece week after week.

It should be easy to wear and comfortable, and can be dressed up or down, depending on where it’s taking you. Put it together with the right accessories and toppers, and it will never let you down.

If you like these looks, many of the pieces we show here can be found in my online shop, H*O*T House of Terrance. But you can easily replicate the styles, perhaps even with pieces from your own closet.

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{Frocks of Gibralter} 5 Stylish Resolutions For 2015

If you’re like me, you
embrace the beginning of
a new year with relish.

There’s nothing like the excitement of a fresh start, the chance to hit the reset button and change up something in your life. Time to clean out the closets, conquer a new skill, or just shake up your wardrobe by considering one or more of these style resolutions.

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Introducing “Frocks of Gibralter”

FOF Terry Gibralter has flawless style, as far as I’m concerned. She turns heads—men’s and women’s, alike—wherever she goes. She could be wearing something as simple as a white shirt and beat-up old jeans, and she’ll look spectacular. So we’ve invited Terry to write a FOFashion advice column, once or twice a month, in which she’ll share some of her tried-and-true tips.

This first column is about one of our favorite subjects—JEWELRY—in which Terry tells us how to wear it best during the holidays,
and throughout the year.

Some of Terry’s tips will link to specific items in H*O*T, her new online shop of new and vintage apparel and accessories. Terry likes to share more than advice. She’s even opened her closet to sell the shirts off her back (literally), because she’s bought and been gifted more than she could possibly wear. Her prices are marvelously modest!

Please join us in supporting FOF entrepreneurs, whenever you can. We’re the greatest generation of women in history, and we’re doing great things every single day.

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{Style} The 10 colors to shop for this spring–and which ones flatter you most!

Pantone, a company known for their proprietary color matching system, produces a report each season on colors they predict will be trendy. With spring just around the bend, they’ve released ten colors they’re predicting will be hot. But, just because a color is a la mode, doesn’t mean that it’s flattering on every FOF. Here, Hollywood’s “guru of hue” Jill Kirsh takes a closer look at this season’s 10 coolest colors and matches them with the FOFs they flatter most.

Jill, has a color theory system based on hair color, and believes that any FOF can look younger, thinner and more radiant when they are wearing their best shades. Read more about Jill’s color system, here.

Take this “cheat sheet” with you when you shop for a spring wardrobe.

Then, get a beauty compact to match. Jill, now offers on-the-go mini kits based on your hair color…in your most flattering shades!
Shop now.

If you are a deep brunette:

Examples: Sally Field, Julia Louis-Dreyfus

Pantone Colors to try this season: Monaco Blue, Emerald

Jill says: “Monaco blue and emerald are clear, true colors. They have cool undertones just like deep brunette hair. Everything is in sync. When a deep brunette wears these colors they look fresher, younger and more alive. A color like tender shoots would wash them out.”

Also try: Fuchsia, royal purple
(Purchase an entire swatch book of your most flattering shades, here.)

If you are a golden brown or redhead:

Examples: Geri Brin, Julianne Moore, Anne Archer, Susan Sarandon

Pantone Colors to try this season: Poppy Red, Tender Shoots, Lemon Zest,

Jill says: “These colors have a warm or yellow undertone. Golden brown or red hair is also warm in tone and will play up these colors well. When a golden brunette or redhead wears these colors it will draw the focus up to the face and pop her eyes smile.”

Also try: Teal blue and eggplant
(Purchase an entire swatch book of your most flattering shades, here.)

If you are a warm blonde:

Examples: Kim Cattrall, Meryl Streep, Jane Lynch

Pantone Colors to try this season: Nectarine, Dusk Blue

Jill says: “Dusk blue and nectarine have warmer bases and are the right intensity for a warm blonde. A royal blue, for instance would be too overwhelming. When a warm blonde wears these colors, her skin tone appears more even, the color of her eyes are highlighted and she in turn, looks younger.”

Also try: Kelly green and ivory
(Purchase an entire swatch book of your most flattering shades, here.)

If you have ash blonde, platinum or gray hair

Examples: Jamie Lee Curtis and Helen Mirren

Pantone Colors to try this season: Grayed Jade, African Violet, Linen

Jill says: “These colors are dusty and muted, which works really well with gray or whiter, blonde hair. These colors enhance the gray, tie everything together and really pop the eyes.”

Also try: Dusty rose or taupe
(Purchase an entire swatch book of your most flattering shades, here.)

{FOFool Proof Outfits} for a non-traditional afternoon wedding

“The lower-key wedding, if still a bit unexpected, is having a moment” according to a recent article in The New York Times which goes on to say that “the backyard is the new ballroom.” But whether you’re a guest at an afternoon wedding in a backyard, art gallery, beer garden, or barn, some general rules still apply.

“With less traditional weddings becoming more popular, there’s a lot of confusion around wedding attire these days,” says FOF Karen Hughes, an image consultant. Her company called StyleYOUniversity, is based in Atlanta. Read Karen’s tip sheet below, then take a look at her FOFoolproof outfit for weddings at non-traditional venues.

Karen’s tips:
1. Steer clear of denim unless specified on the invitation.
2. Going hose-less is acceptable with this caveat: If you are going to wear sandals or open toe shoes with no hosiery, please make sure that your toes are polished and feet groomed.
3. Make sure the heels on your shoes are not worn off so you aren’t clicking up the aisle or sidewalk
4. No flip flops unless stated on the invitation.
5. Linen is a nice touch for a summer wedding. It shouldn’t be cheaply made linen that looks right out of the dryer. (You can tell!)
6. Dressy pants and colorful patterns are nice but if it is a formal wedding steer clear. Formal events usually dictate less color and less pattern.
7. Ditch your everyday satchel in favor of a nice, simple clutch

“Remember it is about celebrating a momentous event in the lives of two people,” says Karen. “It’s not purely about your comfort.”

See Karen’s 3 FOFoolproof outfits for non-traditional weddings:


“I had a client call me because she was invited to a barn wedding,” says Karen. “She had a pair of red cowboy boots and asked if she should wear them. I said, ‘Why not? Just don’t wear jeans. I pulled this Banana Republic dress for her and accessorized with a Western inspired belt, gold cutout earrings and a shawl in case it got chilly.”

Heritage Ikat Print Dress, $79.99 from Banana Republic; Madison Women’s Cowboy Boots, $153.98 from Hat Country; Fishnet Tights in “Sable,” $11 from Nordstrom; Laurent Gandini Bisanzio 9-karat rose gold rock crystal earrings, $1,725 from Net-a-porter.com  (“Save” version: Pretty cut out drop earrings, $9 from Dorothy Perkins); Ananda Design Orchid Wrap Camel, $179 from boticca.com (“Save” version: Echo Design Women’s Architectural Wrap in Camel Heather, $38.99 from Amazon)

“A Beer Garden is a more boisterous type of atmosphere. Things may get a little crazy if you know what I mean!  This type of wedding will be loud and festive, not calm and delicate. Since the venue dictates the dress code, your fabrics and prints can be a bit more dramatic and fun.”

Merrifield Dress, $128 from Jackwills.comKnitted Shrug, $77 from John Lewis; Evan Clutch, $98 from Banana Republic; Harbordale Wedge Sandal, $118 from Sperry Top-Sider; Cassandra earrings, $395 from DANNIJO (“Save” version: Anna’s Chunky Blue, Red & Aqua Stone Teardrop Earrings, $28.95 from Fantasyjewelrybox.com)


“At a beach wedding, the wind will probably be blowing off the ocean and the spirit will be lilting.  Things just feel a bit more delicate and floaty on the beach.  Let the colors of the ocean guide you too.  It’s all about the sensory perception of your surroundings–taking that, and making an event-appropriate outfit.”

Chanel vintage off the shoulder blouse, $1,360 from farfetch.com (“Save” version: Candela Clara Top, $154 from ShopBop.com); Dolce & Gabbana printed skirt, $2,050 from farfetch.com (“Save” version: labworks Illusion Maxi Skirt, $39.99 from Target, also available in Petite and Plus-Size); Sabine 3-tassel link necklace, $18 from piperlime.gap.com; Charlotte Olympia Pandora Bamboo Box Clutch, $995 from kirnazabete.com (“Save” version: Vintage Straw Clutch, $43 from Etsy.com); Balenciaga Criss-Cross Apricot platform wedges, $765 from gordonstuart.com (“Save version: Seychelles Women’s Memories of You Wedge Espadrille $66.88-109.99 from Amazon.com); YSL “Rouge Per Couture – 36” Lipstick, $34 from Barneys New York; 14K Gold Filigree Heart Earrings, $298 from JewelryZen (“Save” version: Crystal Filigree Drop Earrings, $10 from JCPenney.); Victoria Beckham Granny Cat Sunglasses, $534 from Boutique1 (“Save” version: Cat Eye Sunglasses, $89 from Ralph Lauren)

{FOFool Proof Outfits} for a job interview!

If you’re reinventing your career, you probably should consider reinventing your job interview wardrobe, too. What you wore for that job interview at 25 is not the same thing you should be wearing at 55. We spoke to two FOF style experts, Sherrie Mathieson and Grace Gallo about the perfect post-50 interview outfit. Both agree, that you should spend as much as your can afford on your interview outfits, after all, these pieces become invaluable if they help you land the job! Read on for their style suggestions, sure to compliment your resume.

Sherrie Mathieson:

“Parsons” Glasses, $340 from Oliver Peoples
“These dark plastic eye glasses are classic, yet edgy. These frames would flatter any shaped face without totally overwhelming it.”

Sleeveless Shift Dress, $198 from J.Crew
“Gray is my favorite neutral color. It can be mixed endlessly with other neutrals like taupe or brights such as orange. I love this easy, versatile shift dress. It can be worn as is–or layered with a lightweight turtleneck in gray, white, or black. One could easily slip a jacket or cardigan over this dress as well. The possibilities are endless.”

“Etta” Cap Toe Leather Pumps, $248 from J.Crew
“Any variation of the Chanel shoe is so flattering. This one has height and is still comfortable.”

Gipsy “300” Denier Soft Tights in black, $21.05 from Asos
“For an edgier look (and added warmth) add a pair of tights to this look, such as these.”

Grace Gallo:

Anne” Shirt, $320 and “Isabella” Jacket, $585 from Grace Gallo New York
“A shirt-jacket combo is typically a safe bet. Solid colors work best and are typically a better choice for an important interview. This royal blue shirt (pictured right) featuring a ruffle pearl button would work well, as does the fabulously bold red tailored wool blend blazer (pictured left).”

“Telegraph” Pencil Skirt, $138 from J.Crew
“Pull the look together with a solid black pencil skirt.”

“Claire” Necklace and Bracelet Set, $360 from Grace Gallo New York
“Your jewelry choice is a direct reflection of who you are as a person. For me, the classic pearl necklace is a statement of style and class. You can never go wrong with pearls.”

Green Amethyst Earrings, $66.50 from Ross-Simons
“Avoid long, dangling earrings. Remember that simple is always better, like this pair of earrings from Ross-Simons.”

Antonio Melani “Joanne” Pumps (not pictured), $89.99 from Dillards
“Heels are always preferred in business world, and I have to say they add and make an outfit look more polished and professional. These pumps are a prime example.”

Salvatore Ferragamo “Carla” Pump, $495 from Nordstrom
“If you cannot withstand wearing high heels, a show with a low heel is an acceptable alternative. A solid color leather always looks more professional, like this pair.”

{Fashion} 13 Weekend Getaway essentials to splurge and save on.

Whether you’re on a jetsetter or staycationer’s budget, our FOFashion experts have the essentials to make packing for summer weekends–a breeze! Here, they share their picks for FOFigure-flattering swimsuits, chic sunglasses, and stylish totes they’d splurge on. Then, we found the looks for less!

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About the experts:

Terry Gibralter is the Sr. Vice President and Creative Director at Grey advertising as well as a fashion stylist and the creator of these clever work accessories.

Susan Hersh is a Ford model and the host and executive producer of Meet The Experts.

Glenyse Thompson is a personal home and wardrobe stylist and the creator of Styleosophy.

Sherrie Mathieson is a leading style expert and Random House author of Steal this Style and Forever Cool.

Lovey Dash is a Beverly Hills-based stylist. She was formerly in VIP sales for Louis Vuitton on Rodeo Drive.

{What do you think of this look?} Seventies chic…or stuck in a time warp?

Spotted at Fashion Week….When this FOF got dressed she was clearly thinking 70s glam–with her shaggy vest, round shades and wide-legged trousers. But, did she ace this retro redux or should we send her back to Studio 54?

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Sherrie Mathieson: “It takes a very pretty, well-proportioned, slim woman to pull off this demanding look–the bulk, the color, the high waist. She succeeds. I love the snakeskin accessory choices and 70s inspired necklace.”

Sherrie Mathieson is a leading style expert and Random House author of Steal this Style and Forever Cool.

Lovey Dash: “She is not stuck in a time warp, she’s stuck in fashionista land. She has the whole thing going, from snake accessories to winter white, big glasses, a ratty fur vest and the high-waisted pant which made a comeback this year. I would have preferred a more simple top, perhaps a tonal cashmere tee from Kors, but hey, what do I know?”

Lovey Dash is a Beverly Hills-based stylist. She was formerly in VIP sales for Louis Vuitton on Rodeo Drive.

Glenyse Thompson: “Love everything! This is what monochromatic magic looks like. Her Mongolian vest is warm and luxurious–great for running to and from New York Fashion Week shows. The snakeskin clutch, textured shoes and statement necklace bring warmth to her neutral palette. Best of all, she looks confident, comfortable and chic.”

Glenyse Thompson is a personal home and wardrobe stylist and the creator of Styleosophy.

Susan Hersh: “Her fur vest is very chic this season, but the monochromatic look is very old. The shirt tucked into the trouser is not flattering for her figure–it makes her appear wide in the hip area. I would swap it for a slim trouser and untuck the shirt in a more fluid way. The sandal should be updated to a bootie. However, the python clutch is fashionable and the necklace makes a strong statement with the vest.”

Susan Hersh is a Ford model and the host and executive producer of Meet The Experts.

Sandra Soich: “This woman is definitely in a time warp. However, the blouse looks great, as well as her necklace. The glasses and bag work well with the other elements. And, of course, the hair is perfectly ‘70s. Not only is she in a time warp but she’s also in a city warp…I could swear she was in LA!”

Sandra Soich is wardrobe stylist to the stars and founder of YourFashionTherapist.com.

{What do you think of this look?}

Jojami Tyler and Deborah Boland, of the brilliant fashion blog, Fabulous After 40, tipped us off that this FOF we spotted at NYC Fashion Week was actually a fashion blogger by the name of Susan Tabak. She has 7,000+ Twitter followersher own perfume line and has been named “a sort of perennial presence in fashion,” by The New York Times. She must be doing something right…right? See what our style experts have to say, then you tell us…Is her Fashion Week look haute or does it leave you cold?

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Lovey Dash: “Can the fashion police please arrest this woman? The earrings are too much with everything else. The shoes must go immediately. The bag is too bulky for this outfit–a sleeker bag would’ve been a better choice. Now, for the main event–the coat (if that’s even what we can call it) whoever slashed it up had the right idea. If she really must wear it, she should tone everything else down, perhaps by wearing a jumpsuit or monotone stockings, dress and a high boot.”

Lovey Dash is a Beverly Hills-based stylist. She was formerly in VIP sales for Louis Vuitton on Rodeo Drive.


Susan Hersh: “I can appreciate avant-garde fashion and I like women who take a chance by wearing something that sets them apart. However, this cardigan-coat is leaving me very cold. It’s highly impractical for February in NYC, but more importantly, it just looks strange–the coiled rope appears unfinished. I am fine with everything else. Love her shoes!”

Susan Hersh is a Ford model and the host and executive producer of Meet The Experts.

Sandra Soich: I ‘get’ it. Her look is so different than what we’re used to seeing. The only thing that really bothered me was the two-tone colors of the shoe. Otherwise it’s a very special look…refreshing.

Sandra Soich is wardrobe stylist to the stars and founder of YourFashionTherapist.com.

The Glam Gals: Fashion blogger Susan Tabak is known for supporting and wearing up-and-coming fashion designers, which is what Fashion Week is all about. Even though her look is a little bit shocking, Susan sure hit the mark!
While we would never invest in a crazy coat like this, she pulled it off! She looks elegant in this color palette of taupe and black with the simple black scarf and handbag allowing the coat to be the star. Her funky shoes pull the entire look together. Kudos to Susan for rocking this look!

“Glam Gals” Jojami Tyler and Deborah Boland co-write the brilliant fashion blog, Fabulous After 40.

Terry Gibralter: “I think she’s rocking it! Love the amazing rope concept coat. The black and taupe color scheme is sophisticated, and her accessories work well. Also love the ‘of the moment’ leather clutch. Her shoes are super stylish although a bit painful looking. I even like the the hoops and the heavy link bracelet. Her big hair and sunglasses top the look off perfectly. She’s a very cool looking lady!

Terry Gibralter is the Sr. Vice President and Creative Director at Grey advertising as well as a fashion stylist and the creator of these clever work accessories.

Sherrie Mathieson: “This coat is probably ‘art’ to this woman but reminds me of a poodle and looks cumbersome to wear. The layered neutral palette is good, and her great legs are shown off by the high heels and short garment beneath the coat. However, there is not one item in this fussy ensemble that I would want to own.”

Sherrie Mathieson is a leading style expert and Random House author of Steal this Style and Forever Cool.

Glenyse Thompson: “That coat is wearing her, and that’s all I can say….”

Glenyse Thompson is a personal home and wardrobe stylist and the creator of Styleosophy.

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{Style Expert} How would you fix this look?

When it comes to Fashion Week Street Style–some FOFs nail it, and others miss entirely. Then there are the FOFew that fall somewhere in between, like this woman, who wore a masculine tweed suit to the Ralph Lauren show. Her intentions were right, but the the end result was more fox hunt than foxy. Let’s not FOFashion-bash her–let’s help her fix her look. We brought in two experts, Jojami Tyler and Deborah Boland “The Glam Gals” behind brilliant style blog, Fabulous After 40.

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Deb: Whoa, Wouldn’t want to mess with this lady!

Jojami: She looks like Annie Hall meets the Sopranos–very masculine.

Both: A touch of femininity would work wonders. We say ditch the white shirt and tie for a soft silk blouse with a loose bow. Oh, and get some Spanx to smooth out that tummy.

Zara Blouse With Bow Collar, $79.90; Spanx Simplicity High Waist Panty, $52

FOFs, do you agree? How would you fix her look?