{Style Expert} What are you REALLY wearing this winter?

LEAVE A COMMENT 2010 December 21

Three of our most fashionable FOFs reveal the uniforms that keep them chic and warm from December to March.

Linda Cohen, head buyer for the FOF shop, founder of her own NY-based fashion consulting and merchandising business.

1. A double-breasted, black trench. “When you find a good trench coat, it’s worth the investment. You can wear them 10 months of the year, they’re all-purpose, and they never go out of style.”
Try: Trench Coat by Derek Lam, $990.

2. A Faliero Sarti scarf. “My color palette in the winter is mostly blacks, grays and camels. I break it up with pretty, colored scarves. I splurge on the ones by Faliero Sarti because I wear them year round; as a shawl in the summer and around my neck in the winter.”
Try: “Raw Edge Scarf” by Faliero Sarti, $570.

3. A long grandfather-style cardigan. “I like grandfather-style cardigans because they give you a nice lean look and they’re comfy. They also hide my trouble spots–my thighs and mid-section– so only I know what’s underneath…”
Try: Zigzag Cardigan by Inhabit, $388.

4. Thick, black leggings. “The ones I like best are thick, comfortable and never lose shape. They go with a casual cardigan during the day or I swap in a shimmery top and wear them out at night.”
Try: “Elly Legging” in black by Theory, $190.

5. Black Frye riding boots. “I remember wearing Frye boots in college and I’m still wearing them in a different style. They give you that military, biker edge but in a very classic way.”
Try: “Dorado Classic Riding Boots” by Frye, $479.

6. Jewelry by Lulu Frost, “I love her vintage-inspired pieces. She’s so creative. I’ve been following her for years. Now, J.Crew carries her designs.”
Try: “Heirloom Crystalline Cameo Bracelet” by Lulu Frost for J.Crew, $135.
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Stacy Wallace-Albert, personal stylist and wardrobe coach to the Chicago glitterati and founder of TheFashionEditor.com

1. Custom made coyote vest by Greg Tinder of Tsarevich.com. “It seemed over the top until this season, but now it’s perfect with the revival of 70s fashion.”
Try: “Feathered Coyote Vest” by Sofia Cashmere from Neiman Marcus, $695.

2. A 70s-inspired disco blouse. “I think everyone needs a good disco blouse. They’re easy to find at vintage stores, but I’d stay away from the ones with the bows at the neck, no matter what anyone tells you.”
Try: 1970 Handicraft Embroidered Baby Blue Pure Silk Blouse from Etsy Seller ChezMargot, $32.

3. Slim MiH jeans. “I wear them tucked into boots. I love the fit, the weight and the color of the denim. They’re so dark blue, they’re almost black and they’re super soft without being thin.”
Try: “The Oslo Jean” by MiH in “Kara” wash, $89.

4. Black Costume National round-toe, ankle boots. “I got them ten years ago. They were the first boots I paid more than $150 for.”
Try: “Side Button Ankle Boots” by Costume National, $524.99

5. A paisley-print mens Etro scarf. “Men’s scarves are less expensive, richer and larger because they are made from wool chalis.”
Try: “Paisley Scarf” by Etro, $278.
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Sandra Soich, FOF wardrobe stylist to the stars and founder of YourFashionTherapist.com

1. Cream-colored, cashmere sweaters from Calypso. “They’re the best cashmere. If I spend $200 to $250 on a sweater I’m over the moon, because I can wear it at night and during the day.”
Try: “Slouchy Double Vee” by Calypso in “Almond,” $225.

2. Carol Haggiag Tinkerbell charm on a string. “My style is conservative with a twist. Lately for that twist, I wear accessories by my friend, Carol. I wear her little gold Tinkerbell charm on a string.”
Try: Tinkerbell Charm Necklace from Etsy Seller Kikiburrabeads, $15.

3. Black Jeans from Gap or J.Crew. I’m a jeans person, I love good jeans. Right now I’m loving ones from Gap and the black ‘Matchstick’ jeans from J.Crew.
Try: “Overdyed Black Denim Matchstick Jeans” from J.Crew, $98.

4. Scarves from every other corner in Manhattan.“I have these cheap Pashmina knock-offs in about 15 colors. If I’m wearing black, I’ll add a bright raspberry or coral scarf for a pop of color.  You don’t need to spend $300 on a scarf.”
Try: “Best Soft Pashmina Scarf” in various colors, $6.99.

5. Suede crepe-soled Robert Clergerie Oxfords. “I got them at the end of last season and they have a really thick, 1-inch sole with a flat bottom. Comfort is paramount. I’ve been styling since 1983; I used to run around in any old shoe, but these days, I need something comfortable.”
Try: “Feydo” oxfords by Robert Clergerie, $368.25.

{Style Expert} Not your granny’s bathrobe!

LEAVE A COMMENT 2010 December 15

Rub-a-dub-dub…Here are three bathrobes that won’t make you look like a schlub! FOF style experts Linda Cohen and Gail Garramone share comfy coverings for every FOF:

For the cuddle-bunny FOF:
In your life, comfort comes first, but style is a close second.

Left: Josie ‘Dream’ Robe from Nordstrom, $78. “This one is a favorite,” says Linda. “I love the soft faux shearling texture of the collar and cuffs and the cozy feeling of a menswear-styled, belted robe.”

Right: Bellissima Robe from Soft Surroundings, $79.95. “This robe is a work of art,” says Gail. “It’s both elegant and comfortable.”

Bottom: Ugg Cable Knit Slippers from Garnett Hill, $100. “Ugg slippers are my favorite,” says Gail. “Warm fur on cold feet is a heavenly combo. Because they have rubber soles, I would even wear them outside.”

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For the glam, not-gram, FOF:
You’re a Hollywood bombshell meets bath-belle.

Top left: Oscar de la Renta ‘Such a Flirt’ Robe from Nordstrom, $74. “This is very Hollywood diva,” says Linda. “The ruffle detailing brings home something dressy enough to wear out at night.”

Top right: Mary Green Sleeping Silk Eye Mask from Linda’s Online, $15. “The ultimate glam get-away-from-it all,” says Gail. “Shut your eyes in style!”

Bottom left: AE Sequin Ballet Flat from American Eagle Outfitters, $29.50. “You could wear these fur-lined flats with your robe, or pull on jeans and head to the store. No one needs to know they’re slippers.”

Bottom right: Silk Velvet Robe from Soft Surroundings, $148.95. “It’s a decadent dream,” says Gail. “You can channel Ava Gardner.”

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For the fashionista FOF:
You want something stylish enough to wear out, but so comfy you won’t leave the house.

Top left: Ruffle Trim Robe from Garnett Hill, $198. “This looks like something a prima ballerina would wear in her dressing room before the show,” says Linda.

Top right: Bedhead Circa 1960’s White Cotton Kimono Robe from Sleepyheads.com, $128. “The print on this one reminds me of wallpaper I had in high school!” says Linda.

Bottom left: Burberry Check Print Robe from Nordstrom, $175. “Comfortable and classic. You’ll wear this for 50 more years.”

Bottom right: Cashmere Slippers from White + Warren, $160. “Cashmere slippers are a 10 on a scale of deliciousness,” says Gail. “They’re like wafting on wisps of clouds.”

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For the FOF purist:
You need a robe where form and function go hand-in-hand.

Top left: St. Tropez Signature Spa Robe, from Luxor Linens, $126.”Spa robes are perfect for post-shower drying off or pre-bed cuddling up and they actually get softer each time you wash them,” says Gail.

Top right: Tattersall Flannel Robe from Brooks Brothers, $95. “Brooks Brothers’ flannel robes are super warm and soft but also very light and thin so they won’t make you look bulky,” says Linda.

Bottom: Charter Club Slippers, Velour Scuff from Macy’s, $15.98. “Velour is like a less expensive cousin to cashmere…classic, comfy and soft,” says Linda.

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Gail Garramone is a veteran V.P. of Liz Claiborne Inc. where she traveled around the country with Tim Gunn producing fashion workshops.

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Linda Cohen is head buyer for the FOF shop, has her own fashion consulting, merchandising and closet organizing business and owned a New York clothing store for 27 years.

{Style Expert} What do you think of this look?

LEAVE A COMMENT 2010 November 23

When it comes to FOF fashion, there are no rules but plenty of opinions. Check out what our Five Fashion Gurus have to say about this look, then tell us: Do you agree?

FOF Robin Mizrahi: “Love, love this woman! I admire her confidence (this outfit is not for the meek). I feel her “going native” with the vicuna-colored accessories; the way big soft unconstructed bag and her “I-am-a-nature-lover,” Flintstone jewels, topped off by the Park-Avenue-meets-safari zebra cardi. With all that said the proportions are not flattering for her bod. I would have preferred to see a simpler dress and the cardigan peeking out of her bag for a pop. The ladies luncheon shoe is too dressy. A cooler, anonymous flat or ballet shoe would have kept her more modern.”

Robin Mizrahi is co-owner of Pamela Robbins boutique, buyer, merchandiser and entrepreneur.
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FOF Terry Gibraltar: “Love the look!  The black, tan and white color combo is great, as is the au courant touch of zebra print. I love how she modernized with footless tights, an over-sized bag and great ethnic-looking jewelry. My only criticism: The shoes; I wish they were less matchy-matchy and delicate. All in all, I think she’s an FOF who’s rockin’ it!”
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Terry Gibraltar is the founder of Bespoke Custom Shopping Tours, carefully-crafted shopping “vacations” and a self-proclaimed, “fashion-obsessed” FOF.
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FOF Susan Grant: “Too much is going on. The dress is the focal point and has prominent buttons, so it should be more simply accessorized. I like the necklace and touch of color in the bangles, but I’d prefer a solid black sweater and shoes. The bag is too large for a light-feeling outfit.”

Susan Grant is merchandise manager for Muse, a full-service jewelry showroom.

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FOF Sherrie Mathieson: “This woman is trying to look youthful and artsy with leggings, her bold printed sweater and copper disc jewelry. However  her leggings are not worn age appropriately and her accessories overtake her look. The leggings do little for her legs. Pairing leggings with a flat shoe or boot and a 3/4 length sweater or trench about 1 inch above the knee would have been better. For accessories, her bag and shoes would have been enough. A black or dark brown sweater instead of zebra print would have been much simpler and chicer.”

Sherrie Mathieson is a leading style expert and Random House author of Steal this Style and Forever Cool.
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FOF Gail Garramone: “This FOF clearly has a sense of exuberant style, which should be applauded. The colors are repeated nicely in the accessories; the shoes are wonderfully stylish, and zebra sweaters can be fun. But an FOF trying to recreate the look should be careful when piling it all on. I like that she only wore one animal print at a time and didn’t emulate a zoo.”
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Gail Garramone is a veteran V.P. of Liz Claiborne Inc. where she traveled around the country with Tim Gunn producing fashion workshops.

Tell us FOFs: Do you agree with our style experts? What do you think of this outfit?

{Style Expert} Retro not ridiculous: How to achieve a “hippie chic” look

LEAVE A COMMENT 2010 November 11

Two FOF style experts, Gail Garramone and Marilyn Kirschner, share secrets to looking hippie chic–not hippie dippy.

“The 60s had some great looks,” says Gail. “But it is important to know how to bring them back without looking like Joan-Baez-Gone-Bad or like you should be carrying around a lava lamp.”

Both experts agree that FOFs shouldn’t be limited to cliche fashion rules (“I am a firm believer that one can basically wear anything if one knows how to do it,” says Marilyn.) They offer these ideas–not commandments–for working Woodstock into your wardrobe.

6 Fab Hippie Chic Pieces and How to Wear Them


 Examples:  Laguna Cuff by Soft Surroundings (left), $94.95 and Turquoise Buckle Leather Belt (right), $599 from Ralph Lauren

“Turquoise jewelry, whether in the form of a statement necklace or a cuff, makes for beautiful accessories.” says Gail. “Cinch a white button-down blouse with a turquoise belt. A big piece of jewelry slung low on the waist can make an unexpected statement–and hide a pooch!”

Foolproof pairings: A monochrome palette; shirt and pants or a dress in either brown, white or black.


 Examples: Autumin in Philadelphia Tie Dye Silk  Fringed Scarf from Etsy seller, WarmFlashes (left), $29, Nepal Bag by Flora Bella from the FabOverFifty Shop, $412

“Tie-dyed accessories are fabulous because one piece can incorporate so many colors. A brightly tie-dyed pashmina shawl becomes a neutral that you can wear with just about anything,” says Gail.

Foolproof pairings:  Dark jeans and a dark-colored top.


 Example: Declarative Peasant Blouse from Anthropologie (left), $58. Julietta Blouse by Trina Turk (right), $73.99

“Peasant blouses are great way to show a little skin without having to show your arms,” says Gail.

“What you don’t want is for it to resemble a maternity top, worn loose and unbelted,” says Marilyn.

Foolproof pairings: Wrist jewelry or slightly dangling earrings. Sophisticated high-waisted trousers or skirt.


 Example:  Suede Tassel Boots in Brown from Soft Surroundings, (left) $159.95, Tessa Fringed Boot by House of Harlow (right), $350

“Hippie-style, over-the-knee boots in brown are just a fabulous essential,” says Gail. “They can have a hint of fringe but don’t overdo it.”

Foolproof pairings: A skirt that just skims the top of the boots or pants such as cords in brown or black or dark jeans. A slouchy leather or suede bag.


 Example: “Karelia Coat” from Anthropologie, $248

“If you are FOF-fearless, a patterned coat is the ultimate,” says Gail.

“If you opt to wear a statement-making patterned coat, make that the one thing that is special,” says Marilyn. “Keep everything else solid, lean, clean and simplified.”

Foolproof pairings: A neutral monochromatic palette; off-white pants or narrow cords, army green cargos or indigo jeans. A knitted cap or fur or faux fur hat, suede boots (either flat or low wedge), and a timeless tote, satchel or shoulder bag (that are more sporty or casual than dressy).


Example: Faux Fur Vest from Eddie Bauer, (left) $99, Fur vest from Ebay, (right) from $20

“Fur vests may be a bit funky but are also classic enough so that it’s easily workable into a wardrobe,” says Marilyn. “It could easily add pizazz to basic separates. While they are always in style, they are even more so this season.”

Foolproof pairings: Neutral-toned (off white, ivory, cream, camel, brown) underpinnings such as a chunky turtleneck and narrow jeans or chino-type pants. Tall, brown, flat- or low-heeled boots.
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Marilyn Kirschner has been Editor-in-Chief of the Internet Magazine Look-on-Line since 1995. She has appeared multiple times in Bill Cunningham’s ‘On the Street’ columns in The New York Times, and in February 2000, she was the subject of an 18 picture profile. Marilyn started her career at Seventeen magazine before landing at Harper’s Bazaar, where she remained for 21 years. She collects vintage fashion and is a personal shopper and wardrobe consultant. For more information, contact her at marilyn.kirschner@yahoo.com.

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Gail Garramone has 15+ years experience in the fashion industry. She is a veteran V.P. at Liz Claiborne Inc. where she traveled around the country with Tim Gunn producing fashion events and fashion workshops.
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Image of Ali MacGraw via I’m the It Girl

{Style Expert} Learn to hunt for antiques like a pro

LEAVE A COMMENT 2010 October 7

5 FOFs share their secrets for finding vintage treasures:

Jane Grant

Owner of Jane Grant Antiques
Dallas, Texas

An “antique” isn’t an antique unless it is over 100 years old.

“Everything these days is labeled an “antique” but those in the business know it’s not one unless it’s over 100 years old. This comes from U.S. customs rules. You don’t have to pay duty on any item you import that is over 100 years old because it’s considered an antique, but you do have to pay duty on items dating back less than 100 years.”

Her Fave Resources: Antique fairs and markets especially: the biannual Round Top Antiques Fair in Texas (where she just scored a pair of 17th century Spanish doors and a 19th century Italian ceramic platter), the triannual Brimfield Antique Show in Brimfield, Mass., Marché aux Puces de Clignancourt in Paris, Lovers Lane Antique Market and The Mews in Dallas. “Antique fairs can be overwhelming,” she says. “Get as much information as you can before you go. Learn about the dealers, look at maps, and read the show magazine if there is one. For instance, Round Top’s magazine is Show Daily.”

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Kathy Peterson

Design Expert, National TV Host and Syndicated Columnist
Palm Beach, Florida

Just because something has a “Sold” sign on it doesn’t mean you can’t buy it.

“I found a very, very old antique pine kitchen table that I loved at a yard sale, but it had a “Sold” sign on it. I asked the woman running the sale for the phone number of the person who bought the table. She gave me the buyer’s contact information, I contacted her and said, ‘I know you spent $125 dollars on this table. I’ll take it off your hands for another $50.’ She agreed. You’d be surprised how often this happens. I had it appraised and it was worth $2,800.”

Her Fave Resources: Thrift shops such as Jupiter Medical Center Thrift Shop, Hospice of Palm Beach Resale Shop and the Animal Rescue League Thrift Store in Palm Beach. Flea markets and yard sales such as the Renningers Antique Market, held weekly in Mt. Dora, Florida and The World’s Longest Yard Sale which spans three states: Alabama, Kentucky and Tennessee. A few years ago, Kathy scored an antique chair at The World’s Longest Yard Scale which she revamped into a a “bridal chair” for her daughter-in-law’s bridal shower and featured on HGTV.

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Pamela Wiggins

Antique Expert for About.com, author of Buying & Selling Antiques and Collectibles on eBay
Austin, Texas

If you see an item you like, even if you are just considering it, pick it up and hold it as you continue to shop.

“My mother taught me that at a young age. I can always put it back, but I’ll kick myself if I go back and someone else has snatched it up. You can also tell if you’ve got something good if other shoppers, especially dealers, are hovering around waiting for you to put the item back!”

Her Fave Resource: www.RubyLane.com. I’m a dealer there and browse it almost daily. It has a great variety of antiques and collectibles in all price ranges. The dealers are experienced and professional. RubyLane shops also have a three-day return policy which is useful when buying online because it can be hard to get an idea about the color, size and feel of many items through a photograph.

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Barbara Hawthorn

President of Barbara Hawthorn Interiors
McLean, Virginia

Don’t underestimate the Internet as a resource for great antiques.

“I’m in meetings 12 hours a day and have to do my searches in the wee hours of the night. One of the best designer resources for antiques is online: www.1stdibs.com. It is 24/7.”

Her Fave Resource: www.1stdibs.com. It features resources from top antique dealers all over the country/world and is organized well. You can look by period, style or any category of furnishings, all price points, etc.

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Jackie Talmo

Owner of Jackie Talmo Décor
New York City

Look for antique accent pieces instead of antique furniture.

“I suggest to my clients, to use antiques as accessories and décor rather than as furniture. With smaller antique pieces you can add lots of character to a home and they are easier to mix with contemporary elements. You can also switch them out easily…the feel of a home can look fresh by adding new pieces from time to time or changing around the layout.”

Her Fave Resources: Antique stores such as Olde Good Things, Suzanne Golden Antiques, Knollwood Antiques, Eileen Lane Antiques, Vidal’s Antiques (for lighting) or the flea market on 39th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues in New York City.

Images via NotKeren, FabOverFifty, Love to Know, About.com, The Washington Design Center, and FabOverFifty

{Style Expert} Mother-of-the-Bride Style Guide with Kay Unger

LEAVE A COMMENT 2010 September 16

Formalwear designer Kay Unger answers our 7 most pressing questions about Mother-of-the-Bride style.

Meet Kay Unger: In addition to being an FOF and mother-of-the-groom herself (she planned both of her sons’ weddings last year) Kay Unger is one of the leading formalwear designers in the country, with dresses sold in more that 24 countries and worn by notable names such as Oprah Winfrey, Salma Hayek and Vanessa Williams. Kay is former president of The Fashion Group and was inducted as a Leading Woman Entrepreneur of the World™ in 1999.

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FOF: Should a M-O-B coordinate with and/or consult the Mother-of-the-Groom before choosing her dress?
Kay: Don’t ask to “approve” what the M-O-G wears unless she wants you to. You can give her some subtle guidance. “This is what we are wearing, these are the colors, why don’t you pick what makes you feel comfortable?”

FOF: What do you do if you have serious concerns that the mother-of-the-groom will wear something too racy or over-the-top?
Kay: If you are worried about her taste, go online and send her some links and say, “Anything in this range might be fabulous.” Make sure it’s not too expensive. Her happiness is so much more important than what she’s wearing.

FOF: Who picks her dress first?
Kay: The mother-of-the-bride traditionally picks first but you may not care.

FOF: Should a M-O-B choose a dress in the color scheme of the wedding or one that compliments it?
Kay: I think it could be either. Any shade of green is always safe because no matter what kind of flowers you have they always have green stems or green leaves. You won’t clash. M-O-Bs don’t have to wear neutrals anymore. I wore a print to one of my son’s weddings!

FOF: Are there any absolute taboos for a M-O-B dress?
Kay: Never take away from the bride. Your garment shouldn’t be so overwhelmingly intense in color or patterns or jeweling that the bride is overshadowed in any way. She also shouldn’t be revealing.

FOF: What common style mistake do M-O-Bs make?
Kay: Overshowing her dress. Do not show your dress to your husband, friends and daughter a million times before the wedding. Try it on once or twice when you buy it and then again a few weeks before the big day.

FOF: Any style trick every M-O-B should know?
Kay: When you buy shoes, try them on the same hour of day as the wedding because feet swell at different times of day.

{Style Expert} 1 piece, 3 different parties

LEAVE A COMMENT 2010 September 15

Style expert Sherrie Mathieson, author of Steal this Style and Forever Cool shows you how 1 piece can take you through 3 different parties this season.

“J. Crew makes this wonderful sequin top that I’m tempted to buy every time I go in. It’s very Vera Wang-ish with refined sequins and not too stiff. It’s versatile because of its basic construction with sequins that give it a little bit of glamour.” -Sherrie Mathieson

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Casual
Wear this to: A dinner party at the neighbors’, a housewarming event, a potluck dinner

“It’s soft but sexy at the same time. There’s so much interesting texture and detail from the gold tips on the shoes to the bow on the bag. Yet, the flatness of the shoes, the jeans and the cotton-cashmere sweater dress it down,” says Sherrie.

1. Cotton/Cashmere Cardigan from Eddie Bauer, $49.50
2. Bedecked Brooch Necklace from Anthropologie, $48
3. Buena Notte Bag from J. Crew, $188
4. Chanel Black-Golden Ballet Flats, $186
5. Raw Denim Jeans by Not Your Daughter’s Jeans, $161

Sequin drizzle tank from J. Crew, $98

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Middle of the Road
Wear this to: A cocktail party, a holiday party, a business dinner

“It’s very feminine but has a certain sensuality that denotes a relaxed social environment,” says Sherrie. “Most of this outfit can be worn to work, then just add in the bag and the top to make it evening-appropriate.”

1. Pure Pashmina Wrap in Black from The Pashmina Store, $69.99
2. Braided Chain-and-Pearl Necklace from J. Crew, $88
3. Nylon E.B. Bag from Kate Spade, $175
4. Russian Imperial White Enamel Ring, $85
5. Lizzy Leather Pumps by Jimmy Choo, $495
6. Margrita Skirt by Diane von Furstenberg, $245

Sequin drizzle tank from J. Crew, $98
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Dressy
Wear this to: A benefit, fundraiser, political house party

“The cut of the pants, the shoes and the evening bag make this look more appropriate for a formal occasion. I love the jacket because it could also be dressed down with jeans.” says Sherrie.

1.  Safety pin embellished wool jacket by DAY Birger et Mikkelsen, $610
2. Sequin minaudière from J. Crew, $128
3. Diamond Pattern Medium Cuff by Anna Beck, $345
4. Carly Heels from Kate Spade, $298
5. Balloon Pant by Planet Clothing, $300

Sequin drizzle tank from J. Crew, $98
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Sherrie’s Secrets to Looking Party Perfect

-When choosing dinner-party wear, focus on a good fit and not overexposing skin. “It’s very tempting for women to expose too much cleavage,” says Sherrie.

-Choose pieces with flow and femininity. “Dinnertime is a softer part of the day, so clothing should be softer too,” says Sherrie.

-Nothing is more important than a well-chosen accessory. “It could be a great conversation starter,” says Sherrie

-A mix of neutrals and interesting textures is a great way to achieve a classy, party-ready look. “You can always accessorize with color,” says Sherrie.

– “It’s not the Mad Men era,” says Sherrie. “In those days people had a certain code of dress. Today, there are less rules, so people are all over the place. If ever in doubt, seek out guidance from a professional stylist.”
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{Style Expert} Part 2: “What I’m coveting this fall”

LEAVE A COMMENT 2010 September 9

In part two of this two-part series, our most fashionable FOFs gush over the pieces they’ve fallen for this autumn.

Sally Hilkene, stylist and owner of Churchill

1. Over the Knee Frye Boots in Black, $488. “I lived in Frye boots in college. There are a lot of choices out there but I like Frye because of the detailed stitching on the back and the side zipper. Above all, they are extremely comfortable and a good price point.”

2. Catherine Deane “Irina” Jacket. “It’s a fitted jacket so it is slenderizing but also edgy. I call it space-age meets military because of the leather detailing at the shoulder and waist. It’s structured but very feminine.”

3. HTC Belts, $365.00. “Since I wore cowgirl Halloween costumes when I was younger, I’ve always loved studded belts. The HTC belts provide bling, but in a subtle way. The crystals are black and the studs are tarnished black, similar to Balenciaga or Burberry Prorsum, but much easier on your pocketbook.”

4. Faliero Sarti Scarf, $325.00. “Faliero Sarti scarves from Italy, new in our store, have become my absolute favorite accessories. My favorite is the Filomena scarf, which has a sentence in Italian embroidered on it’s edges: ‘Trova un amica trova un tesoro.’ It translates, ‘To find a friend is to find a treasure.’  Isn’t that the truth?”

*Select items available from Churchill. Call 913.262.5240 for details about availability and shipping.
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Wendy Foster, stylist and owner of Wendy Foster

1. Dries Van Noten Jacket, $1,118.00 with Dries Van Noten Full Cotton Skirt, $804. “It’s reminiscent of the old Dior look of the 40s and 50s.”

2. Faliero Sarti Scarf, $298.00. “There’s a great one with an American flag in sepia tones. It would look great with my linen jacket.”

3. Flat Boots in multiple colors. “I like very plain flat boots that zip and unzip so they are easy to put on and take off. I like boots by Ann Demeulemeester when she makes them or Jil Sander. I also like buying my boots from riding shops.”

*Select items available from Wendy Foster. Call 805.565.1506 for details about availability and shipping.
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Linda Cohen head buyer of FabOverFifty’s Shop

1. Leather Tassel Tote from Gap, $98. “It’s a little bit bohemian at a great price. You could fit a cell phone and a laptop and it’s good for traveling.”

2. Classic Animal Print Scarf from Ann Taylor, $58. “Animal prints are so big this fall. It’s a great way to dress up a black sweater.”

3. Peplum Shirt by Planet Clothing from the FabOverFifty Shop, $264. “We all need a new white shirt. The asymmetrical collar and black buttons make this a stand out. It would look great with the Ponte Knit Leggings.”

4. Bianca Necklace by Paige Novick from the FabOverFifty Shop, $435. “I love this piece for its quiet beauty and understated grace.”

5. Leopard Print Dress from Talbots, $179. “This is a fantastic, classic, sleeveless sheath. You can throw a little black cardigan over it and go anywhere… to work, out or to a party.”

6. Tie-Front Cardigan from J.Crew, $118. “Camel is one of the most important colors this fall. We all love a yummy cardigan to wear with a t-shirt, over leggings, jeans or a dress. The crepe de chine ribbon closure gives it a more feminine touch.”

7. Ponte Knit Leggings from Ann Taylor LOFT, $49.50. “Leggings are not going away. For the quality, these leggings are a wonderful price. They are made from ponte fabric which is thicker and holds you in really well. You can wear them with a great big sweater or a tunic.”
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{Style Expert} Part I: “What I’m coveting this fall”

LEAVE A COMMENT 2010 September 8

In part one of this two-part series, our most fashionable FOFs gush over the pieces they’ve fallen for this autumn.

Shirley Wexner, stylist and owner of Joseph

1. Gryphon Shirt, $285.00
2. Jeans by J Brand, $175.00
3. Frye Boots with Studs, $650.00

“I’m going to a rehearsal dinner for a wedding in Texas and I’m wearing a fabulous Gryphon Shirt, J Brand Jeans and Frye Boots with studs all over them.  My friend in Dallas bought me a cowboy hat to match.”

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4. Elizabeth and James “Kyra” Belted Cardigan in Toast, $395.00
5. Autumn Cashmere Double-Breasted Sweater in Maroon, $195.00
6. Alexander Wang Long Sweater with Pockets in Charcoal, $415.00

I love three different sweaters: One is Elizabeth and James; the color is toast and it’s long and belted and has an organza ruffle down the front.  Autumn Cashmere has a gorgeous double-breasted sweater in maroon that I’ve got my eye on. Finally, Alexander Wang has a long charcoal sweater with pockets that’s great.

*Select items available from Joseph. Call 901.767.1609 for details about availability and shipping.
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Robin Sheldon, President and Founder of Soft Surroundings

1. San Marcos Top, $79.95. “I love tie dye with a touch of glam! The length on this is perfect and it has a fabulous shape!”

2. Parisian Jacket, $110.95. “The collar frames the face perfectly. I love the combination of boiled wool and taffeta. It creates layers of texture and has a great shape.”

3. Rock Star Shirt, $89.95. “I love that it’s silk! The length is just right to belt and it’s
perfect to wear under a tailored jacket to create contrast and interest. It’s just as cool buttoned up as unbuttoned.”
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Joni Fischer, retail director of Christopher Fischer

1. Cashmere-Blend, Chunky Cable Collar Cardigan in Mid-Grey, $825.00 “It’s a great piece over slouchy trousers for work. For traveling and weekend-wear it’s great with jeans.”

2. Cashmere Fine Gauge V-Neck Long Sleeved A-line Dress in Plum, $438.00 “The dress is lightweight and versatile. In the daytime I wear it with Wolford leggings in dark grey. For dinner, I’ll quickly change into a heel or bootie, an over-the-top necklace or cuff and a great bag.”

3. Cashmere-Blend, Ribbed ½ Cardigan Stitch Oversized Wrap Coat in Mid-Grey, $495.00 “This piece works with everything. I wear so much black, so gray is a softer accent to go with the fall colors this season; plum, eggplant and olive. It also works for travel, work, weekend-wear or dinner. In the evening I add an elbow-length leather glove and a tall leather boot.”

*Select items available from Christopher Fischer. Call 1-888-CF-GOATS for details about availability and shipping.
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{Style Expert} Decked out! 16 nautical pieces (with price tags that won’t make you want to walk the plank)

LEAVE A COMMENT 2010 July 13

As long as you don’t go overboard, adorning an outfit (or home) with these classics is a summer no-brainer. No matter how much is in your treasure chest, we’ve got you covered this summer with splurge-worthy investment pieces and bargain booty.

Investment Treasures:

1. Show them who’s captain;  1970’s Canada Wheel pendant necklace by Rafael from House of Lavande, $650

2. Boat meets tote; Ella Vickers Rope Tote from Ella Vickers, $148. PLUS win one here!

3. Soft stripes for rough seas; Nautical T-shirt from Saint James in navy and white or cobalt blue and white, $115.

4. For catching all your summer booty; Fisherman’s Net Tote in green, yellow or red from Anthropologie, $108

5. For your sea legs; Wide Leg Trousers in Heavy Linen in white from Eileen Fisher, $109

6. Where there’s a whale, there’s a way; Whale Pitcher from Jonathan Adler, $95

7. Stars of the sea; 14k Sea Star Earrings by Danielle Pittman from Churchill, $675

8. Get regatta-gala glam with this… Asymmetric Zip Dress by Tomas Maier from Serenella, $550

9.  Sandals not just for the sand; Delphi Sandals in chartreuse and tan from Cynthia Vincent, $133.99

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Bargain Booty


1. A seaside shoe staple; Women’s Montauk Slip-Ons in multiple colors from Sperry, $90

2. Because, why knot? Sailor Knot Bracelet in natural and gold from Etsy seller, “thevamoose,” $18

3. All that’s missing is the gondola; Venice Slub Stripe Tee by Splendid in dune, carbon or licorice from Piperlime, $66

4. Shade up or ship out; Studded Sculpted Rectangle Glasses in tortoise or black from Nine West, $38

5. To take you from ship to shore; Sailing-The-Streets Wedges in dark denim from Anthropologie, $59.95

6. Port of Call shirt in white or black from Soft Surroundings, $59.95

7. Mirror, mirror on the sea; Porthole Round Wall Mirror from Totally Furniture, $76.88

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