"Love Your Body, Work Your Body" Style Workshop

Dear Reader,

I have some exciting news!!!!!!!!!!

Amanda Styles You is hosting it's first style workshop in Lawrenceville July 11th at 720 music, clothing boutique and coffee house. Follow me on twitter @amandastylesyou or look us up on Facebook. The event is public. Space is limited. More details to come soon............

Panello of Pittsburgh, more than just another option for Steel City

I discovered Panello, a small but purposeful boutique in what is referred to as "Lower Lawrenceville" at the behest of a great (and stylish) friend. This said friend knew that I was on a quest for an amazing boutique to feed the craving of individual style that I had missed since moving from DC. That's not to say there haven't been amazing options elsewhere. In fact, Pittsburgh next to Baltimore, MD (sorry DC, a lot of your consignment and vintage stores are way over priced with the exception of one said store which is still selfishly a secret of mine) is a haven for fantastic second hand styling. Panello was a joy, a relief, a fantastic surprise all wrapped up in a frenzied hour of trying on items, touching fabric, and stacking bangles. I tried on different pieces and declared this is a boutique everyone needs to know about. The owner, Cara Moody who's first store is better known as the South Side Gem, JUPE was kind enough to have me style clothes from her collection and grant me a short interview. You can find her comprehensive bio here at http://www.jupeboutique.com/aboutus.asp .

Amanda Lewis: What inspired you to travel to Paris to study fashion?

Cara Moody: I had spent the previous summer in Italy and fell in love with Europe,  An opportunity approached me with a study abroad program in Paris which I then decided to complete my fashion design background there.

AL: What was your first treasured fashion piece including clothing or accessories?
CM: hmm.... I have had so many its hard to really remember my first but I would have to say my Yellow racing sweater with red panel insert, high collar with zipper.  I found it in NYC on a trip I went there with my dad when I was 14.  I think I still have that sweater I wore them with thick leggings

AL: How old were you when you first began cultivating your personal style, and would you say you have a defined style?
CM: I would say 7th grade, I think I was the first kid in my school to stop pegging my jeans

AL: Why was it important for you to open an affordable and accessible boutique with great pieces in Pittsburgh? Why not work in NY or Paris or Milan?

CM:    I had a job in Paris after college pattern making  for a small Spanish designer  Irenena Gregory, at that point I had already spent 2 years in Paris and decided to move to NYC where I continued my career in fashion as a Stylist for Sharagano a french company.  I worked there for 2 years and decided to move back to Pittsburgh. NYC  can be overwhelming and draining over time at least it was for me.  Truthfully, I don't think that I would have been able to open stores in any large city without have a million bucks and Pittsburgh is affordable. 7 years ago when I opened Jupe there were only a few boutiques.  I wanted affordable since I was also on a budget.    

AL: With the success of Jupe Boutique, your sister store  in the South-side of Pittsburgh, why open another store, and why Lawrenceville?

CM:    I had a lot of people tell me that they loved my store but never make it to the South-side which is typical Pittsburgh.  I was looking to expand and searching for the right location.  Lawrencville is growing so much and when this space became available the owner of Pavement (another fantastic boutique) contacted me.  As soon as I saw the space it sang to me and it felt just like Jupe.

AL: What is the message you'd like to convey to people outside of Pittsburgh about Pittsburgh fashion?

CM:   Pittsburgh does lack a little in the fashion department but this is a city that is rapidly growing and each neighborhood is unique in its own way 

AL: Do you carry any local designers?

CM:  I carry 2 really, Mike Hickey who makes vintage jewelry and Nami Holderman with Zeto clothing. She used to own APT in the South-side.

Here are the outfits I put together during the Amanda Styles You styling and photo session. Thanks to another awesomely stylish and talented friend of mine, Carrie Thovson for the photo's. I don't know if you can tell, but this was a great time!!!

Ark &co snow leopard blouse $62
FT flare pant $56
Urban expression patent clutch sale $38 

RDI stripe knit $58
level 99 shorts $94
Dolce Vita bone sandal $64 

Zeto floral sundress $136
oval statement necklace $32
Dolce Vita brown suede booties on sale $94

High Low skirt - an undecided mind, or another option?

I recently purchased a High Low black jersey skirt as a casual option for my upcoming cruise, and just to have another piece for what I call my weekend wear. The High Low skirt or dress has in fact been in existence since the 1950's as a Balanciaga design. The High Low silhouette like any other design comes in many variations. I like it for summer because you have the lower hem of a maxi skirt, as well as a higher hem in the front to catch that summer breeze. I also like it because you get to show a little leg, which is always a good thing. For hem control be mindful of the designer or line you purchase from. Stores for younger women may have a much higher hemline than say those targeted to the more mature set.

The skirt I purchased:

Ann Taylor Jersey High Low Hem Skirt - $68

I love this skirt because it is different in terms of the asymmetrical cut being more shallow than many High Low designs you see. Also the material is sooooo comfortable. This skirt is flattering on all body types and comes in three colors. I styled a client with a fuller waist and pear shaped proportions in this skirt and she looked great. You may think this length is not a good one because it cuts you off at the knee. The reason this works is because of the High Low hem. True, the length in the back may be bad, but it's in the back so in fact it provides a little something extra as well as a bit of modesty for the shorter length in the front, which is in fact a very flattering length.

Here is another one that is a bit more dressy but beautiful and again, a very flattering design:

bebe High Low Skirt - $80

This is a much more extreme High Low hem than the first, but I think it's sexy, and fun and it works for a few reasons. The High hem in the front has a little sexy, but it's still low enough to leave something to the imagination. This is great for younger woman, or a mature woman with great legs. Also the back cascades evenly down around the legs with soft pleating, so there is no tail effect. You can still wear a variety of style of shoes with this skirt, but it is not as casual as my purchase so accessorize accordingly

Now this one I'm not a fan of:

Asos Collection Skirt with High Low Hem

 I really don't like how high the hem in the front is. The extreme low back actually make the front seem shorter than the micor-mini it is. In this case there is no modesty. I feel even with the low back you still couldn't sit in this skirt because you'd have to worry too much about the front being exposed. This I believe is what critics mean when they say the High Low hem is for people who couldn't decide if they wanted to wear short or long, or in this case, ankle length or micro-mini. I also think the the extremely narrow design of the back creates a tail like silhouette which.... is a little costumey for my taste and just not cute.

That's the skinny on the High Low. Don't forget to follow us on twitter @amandastylesyou and please leave comments or questions. If there is a style challenge in your life, or a recent design or trend you have questions about, we are here to help.

Full Figured Poolside Beauty

Full Figured Poolside Beauty by amandastylesyou 

I styled this collection with curvy and full figured women in mind. This bathing suit from mod cloth is from their plus size collection which recently launched. It is especially flattering and forgiving because of the ruching and the fact that the material can be adjusted to raised above the hip, or slightly covering the top of the thigh as shown. The sarong is a great piece for any woman going to the beach or sailing on a cruise ship to easily transition from the water to the water side restaurant or  lounge. Ann Taylor has a great updated version of the espadrille which is a nice all around summer shoe. This heel is very high, but the traditional wedge would still look great for those women who need a bit more support. Every lady needs a great hat and sunglasses to guard against the sun. A wide brim helps to add balance. I chose the Felix Rey beach tote with the crab as a nod to my East Coast Chesapeake Bay upbringing. The Modcloth Esther Williams one piece is available in missy size as well. I have tried it on and I will be purchasing for my first cruise this summer.

Don't forget to follow Amanda Styles You on twitter and to check back in for more style tips and ideas. 

Necessarily Navy

Necessarily Navy by amandastylesyou 

This is your classic "Work to After" (a phrase I've created for my clients) outfit. What's great about this are the #classic pieces, and the whimsy in the McQueen scarf to add some fun. This outfit could easily be translated into resort wear. Navy is a great neutral to use in lieu of black in the warmer months. This outfit is comfortable and can be worn by any body type. #maxiskirts. For more up to date ideas don't forget to follow me on twitter @amandastylesyou, and set up a style appointment, closet consultation, or personal styling session contact us at  Amanda Styles You

Fashoin VS Style

I saw this on Facebook and wanted to share. It's simple and to the point. There's a big difference between fashion and style. I have seen many people decked head to toe in designer clothing and up to minute fashion trends, looking completely ridiculous. Here's a reminder to everyone, and the creator of this graphic.. GENIUS!!! Shout out to Eka Take on facebook for this pic

Love Your Body, Work Your Body

Two mantras I recite to my clients almost on a daily basis are: "Dress for the body you have" and "It's not your body, it's the clothes!". In my opinion the two greatest inhibitors of great style are lack of knowledge, and body image issues. The first is much easier to overcome. If a person simply doesn't understand the guidelines of how to achieve great personal style, a little push in the right direction sets them off on a wonderful world of polish, poshness, and professionalism in their dress. On the other hand, body image issues can be thorny and difficult problems to overcome that are sometimes wrought with years of abuse, self esteem problems, or a change resulting in gaining or losing weight, having a baby, or getting older. 

I can't help but become a bit miffed when I see beautiful women who try to hide their bodies or express dismay when a dress doesn't fit they way they expected. It's hard to see women tear themselves down because they believe wholeheartedly that they are the problem. Having a baby should be celebrated, you brought new life. Getting older should be done with grace. It's a natural process and one we should all be prepared for. Gaining weight or losing weight happens. What's important is to not use the clothing as a crutch. Wearing pieces that no longer fit you brings attention to the changes you've gone through. Instead of noticing the beautiful cashmere sweater you've taken the time to pair with your creme pants, all anyone will see is how ill fitted your outfit is. Making the mistake of wearing something that longer fits (or never did fit) also contributes to the vicious cycles of low self esteem, and a negative body image. 

I love what I do because I help women and men remember why it's important to care about how you look and to take pride in dressing well every day and not just for special occasions. It's very gratifying to see the smile or hear the sigh of relief when I step in to assist and give them a piece that compliments their body. Being a stylist is about understanding bodies of all shapes. Some are more challenging than others but no woman or man is without hope. With many clients the change does not happen over night. It's starts with a great fitting pair of jeans and one not too bright color that is not black. Ladies (and Gentlemen) I challenge you to first Love your body, and then Work your body. You may not change how you feel overnight, but looking great helps. And if you need assistance, booking an appointment with a great stylist will help to ease the stress of making the change.

For style tips, trends and ideas check back here and don't forget to follow me on twitter @amandastylesyou 

to book a closet consultation or a style session or personal shopping appointment email  us at amandastylesyou@gmail.com

What to Wear Wedding Style - The Informal Wedding

Now I know you noticed the word informal in the title of the post. That's because there is no such thing as a casual wedding!!!!!!! Now this is a blog so I hope that you my reader understands that blogs are the direct opinion of the person authoring it, and differing opinions are to be expected and welcomed..... with caution ;) . Unless there is a specific theme associated with a wedding, ie. a wedding my father attended a few years back where the reception consisted of beer, BBQ, and fishing; there really is no such thing as a casual wedding. Casual is for going to the movies with friends. Casual is for going to Hershey Park, or Kennywood, or Disneyworld. Casual is for attending a friends outdoor labor day backyard BBQ. Casual is NOT appropriate for a wedding. So you may ask "Amanda, when you speak of an informal wedding, what do you actually mean?!" and to that I would reply, less formal than semi-formal but still stylish, attractive, and an outfit that expresses to the bride and groom and guests that a lot of thought and care went into what you put on. If it took you 15 minutes to get dressed, it should appear that it took much longer (though I would argue that should be the case anytime you step out of your front door).

Now here is the good news for you budget conscious ladies. The informal wedding is the one most likely to strike a chord with your existing wardrobe, and allows for the most flexibility with regard to style.

For an evening informal wedding an afternoon dress or cocktail dress is appropriate. Now here is where you want to be careful NOT to wear too much bling or lace, or to be too over the top. Keep it simple and sophisticated. One of my dearest and closest friends is getting married in June. It is an informal wedding but I've seen pictures of the gown so I know she might blow a gasket is anyone showed up wearing cullotes.


For this wedding or weddings like this I would suggest these looks:
 

Harvey Leger for BCBG

I like this dress because it's fun and simple, and flattering for different body types. You can keep it casual with flats or make it dressier with a pair of great pumps or heels.

Kettle Corn Dress in Afternoon - Modcloth

This is great for so many occasions. I love the off the shoulder detail and the color. Again, very easy to dress up or down making this a great choice for an afternoon or evening wedding.

Karen Millen Cotton Iris Print Dress

This dress is great for almost any age. Don't be afraid of the hemline. Often when pictured on a model the hemlines are shown higher than actually are. When ordering online check the measurements to make sure you comfortable with the actual length. 

Alice and Olivia Perfectly Iris Maxi Dress

The maxi dress is a great option for an informal summer wedding. This one from Alice and Olivia is a stunner. The silk fabric and beautiful iris print make this dress appropriate for many special occasions.

The other exception to the informal wedding is that dressy pants for women are acceptable for the afternoon. Again tread carefully in this. It can be done, but if not correctly it will be questionable. Skirts are also acceptable for the daytime and afternoon wedding, so if you have a really great skirt pair it with a fun pretty blouse.
To find the dresses pictured here you can click on the caption and it will direct you to a link for the designers and online retail stores where you purchase these dresses and other similar looks. I hope you now have a better understanding of the differences between the formal, semi-formal, and informal wedding. Till next time, and don't forget to follow me on twitter @amandastylesyou .

What to Wear, Wedding Style Part 2 - the semi formal wedding

Ok ladies, the semi formal wedding. This concept seems a little easier for people to understand, though there is still a discrepancy in women's minds on what cuts and fabrics are acceptable for a semi-formal event. What's nice is you have a few more options because you can play more freely with lengths and cuts, and the lines are bit blurred when it comes to looks for evening and day events. Basic rules apply when deciding on looks for an evening or daytime look. Just like with the formal wedding, lighter colors for day are always great, while deeper and richer colors should be reserved for the evening. Of course rule can be broken, but if so do it tastefully. More modest looks for day while riskier looks are fine for evening.

Here are some evening looks:

When the Night Comes Dress in Smoke - ModCloth $99

I like this dress for many reasons. I love the smoky color which is perfect for an evening event. It's fun, subtly sexy, and the lace detail gives is the right touch to make it  appropriate for a semi-formal event. The hemline is not too short which is a mistake I've witnessed too many times. Here is another one from the same company:

Moonlight Marvel Dress - ModCloth $177.99

 This again is a great color for an evening event. It has a classic one shoulder design, not too short hemline and with the right accessories is definitely elegant enough for any semi-formal event.

David Meister Long Sleeve Sequined Cocktail Dress - Neiman Marcus $560

Here is an example of a long sleeve option. I love the elegance of this dress. Now, some may think, it's a nice pastel color which is great for day time, but the sequins and illusion neckline make it decidedly evening. It's not just about the color. The details determine when and where and outfit is acceptable.

Tess Strapless Bustier Dress - BCBG $268

This look is definitely one of the sexier looks I've chosen for a wedding. With this look, classic accessories and a great bolero jacket for the ceremony will keep it from being too sexy, though this bustier look is subtle enough and completely acceptable for evening. Also I love the playful high-low hem. It's elegant without being too formal.

Now for some day time looks:

Kristin Dress in silk taffeta - JCrew $250 (online only) 

This dress is daytime wedded perfection. It's a great formal fabric, the perfect hemline, the perfect daytime color, and the design is simple. This dress is all about the fit. Wear a patterned shoe which picks up the color in the dress, or a solid pump or sandal depending on the time of year.

Delphine Pleated Cutout-Back Dress - BCBG $338

This is such a cute dress. The details in the fabric and the ribbon and bow make this dress special. The neckline keeps it modest. You don't have to do much with this dress because it stands on it's own. A pair of nude shoes as pictures is a perfect pairing. You could also do a metallic such as gold or bronze. Because of the classic look of this dress I wouldn't go too crazy with the color in the accessories. 

Albert Nipon Metallic Jacquard Skirt Suit - $415

This look is very specific to the semi-formal daytime wedding. Suits are not acceptable for a formal wedding. Again, the suit should be special. A beautiful color and/or interesting details should be a part of the construction. Something you would wear to the office is NOT semi-formal. Accessories with a suit should be very classic and minimal.

All of these looks are meant to inspire ideas. I am not advocating spending $500 for anything unless you have it. If you plan accordingly and take the time, you can put together an appropriate look and look like a million bucks without breaking the bank.

I hope you found this post helpful. Remember to check in for the next post in the wedding series, The "Casual Wedding". And remember to follow me on twitter @amandastylesyou. Till next time ;)

What To Wear, Wedding Style

The last few weeks I have spent styling many clueless clients for weddings. It's sometimes astonishing how little I've found people understand about dress etiquette for the most common events. I can't tell you how many times I've asked the first basic question "how formal is the event?" to be answered with stammers and blank stares. I feel bad because this lack of knowledge ads to the frustration that already lies in simply trying to find something that fits the figure, let alone searching through stores and traveling from shopping center, to boutique, to malls to find something appropriate. For many women this is like trying to find a location in a 5 mile radius with vague descriptions, and no address. For these reasons I've decided to dedicate the next few blogs to wedding guest attire and etiquette. For many people this will kill many birds with a pebble as I'm learning how few people understand the real differences between Formal and Semi-formal. We are going to work our way from fancy to casual. Today's blog is focused on the formal wedding. For assistance I have turned to the almost hundred year old stand by and expert on Etiquette, Emily Post. Emily Post has guided American's in the early 1920's on, and the tradition is now carried by her relatives. For more information on Emily Post, you go to the website here at www.emilypost.com.

Guest etiquette is extremely important. When you don't dress appropriately for events, you not only risk standing out for all the wrong reasons, it can distract from the guest of honor or be considered a sign of disrespect. Yes, dressing appropriately is that big of a deal. It shows you care. For this post I have utilized  www.nordstrom.com which has a section titled Wedding Guest Attire. The link I provided will direct you to the that section.

 Formal attire for women after 6 pm means long cocktail gowns or dressy evening separates. These need to be floor length and consideration for the venue must be taken. If the ceremony takes place in a house of worship, be sure to have an appropriate cover such as a jacket or shawl to show modesty. Here are some examples.

St. John satin gown Nordstrom $1,395

 I love this gown because it has everything you need. It's a beautiful color, it's sexy and has an interesting shape, but it's still modest enough to not distract from the occasion. Remember, you're a guest and you want to look great, but it's all about the bride. Here's another example:

Pisaro Lace Evening Gown Nordstrom $178

 This gown does not go all the way down to the floor, but is still considered formal as the hemline is at or just past the ankle. Here's one more. Evening doesn't have to mean strapless or sleeveless. Here is a cap sleeve option. This example isn't necessarily for color.

JS Collections Cap Sleeve Chiffon Dress - Nordstrom $378

This last example is light and airy and great for warm weather occasions. Now I'm a traditionalist when it comes to attire. I may push the envelope with color, or a print, but I like to stick to convention when it comes to attire length and fabric. A wedding is no place to make too personal of a statement. It's not about you. There are some women however who just do not feel comfortable for whatever reason in a long gown or separates. Today you might hear reference to the formal cocktail dress which in my opinion is an oxymoron. If you go this route it needs to be a truly special dress. You might be able to get away with it if it's formal, but if it's black tie I say stick with the longer styles.

Daytime formal offers many more options with regard to style and length. It is daytime and therefore lighter colors are encouraged. For the formal morning or afternoon wedding, cocktail or dressy afternoon dresses are considered acceptable. Here are some examples:

Adrianna Papell Strapless Lave Peplum Dress - Nordstrom $228

I love this dress because it has all the elements of a formal daytime wedding dress. The length is perfectly acceptable for the time of day. It is a beautiful sophisticated style with interesting elements. Don't be put off by it being strapless if need be the shoulders can be covered with a simple shawl or shrug, or jacket which can be taken off at the reception. This dress is feminine and a great light color, perfect for the time of day. Here are two more examples:

Tadashi Shoji Embroidered Lace Sheath Dress -  Nordstrom $368

I like this dress because of the fabric, and the color and it offers a bit more modesty. The right accessories will make you wedding ready. Here is a long option:

Calvin Klein Embellished Strapless Chiffon Gown  - Nordstrom  $198

The print makes this gown a little less formal making it and the color perfect for a formal, or semi-formal daytime wedding. Remember, when it comes to dressing, fit and appropriateness of style always beats out cost. If you don't have cocktail dresses or formal gowns in your closet, opt for styles that are versatile and can be worn year round.

Check back soon for the next Post in the series of What to Wear Wedding Style where I identity styles for the Semi-formal wedding.

Sophisticated Sunday Style

This Easter Sunday I had the pleasure of attending service at the historic Mt. Joy A.M.E church in Monkton, MD with my family. Service was great. The dancers were incredible, the word of the day was on point, and I'd like to think the music (two songs performed by yours truly) went over well. The pastor Rev. Rae-Lynn Kingeter is a great leader for her church and I must say one stylish lady. After service I insisted on getting a photo of her. By the way she is to be honored as Maryland State Employee of the Year!!!!! Let's see, successful state employee, great pastor, wife and mother of two, and always stylish..... great personal style and success. I see a connection here!!!!! ;) Oh and she's a fashionista who finds time to work part time at Ann Taylor to feed her fashion obsession. She's also a fan of Kate Spade, Nordstrom, and Saks.

Pastor Rae-Lynn Kingeter in her church Mt. Joy AME in Monkton , MD looking  fabulous

I love this dress and topper together because of the mix of textures. The dress is lace, and the topper in navy and beige has a beautiful sheen to it. Unfortunately the Pastor's look is from a past Ann Taylor collection and no longer available, but bellow are some options for how you can achieve similar looks from current collections at Ann Taylor and beyond.

Graphic Floral Topper - $198 Ann Taylor

Pique Flounce Dress - $138 Ann Taylor

 I love these two together. I keeping with the classic look, the attention is on the topper but the dress is special on it's own. Here's another:

 Ponte Zipper Jacket - $29.99 Target

French Stripe Column Dress - $178 Anthropologie 

This take further from Rae-Lynn's look but it's still a classic, eye catching outfit. It can also easily go from "work to after" which is a phrase that I came up with when referencing versatile looks to my clients. Also this look contains a classic color combination of blue and yellow. You can NEVER go wrong with those two.

Black and White and Patterns all over

Continuing with my mission to get the women of Pittsburgh to step outside their pattern box I wanted to offer some easy tips on how wade in the shallow end of the patterned pool. The water feels great, you just have to give it time, and adjust. Black and white patterns are the easiest to wear and style. The number one rule I teach my clients is decide what the main color is in the pattern and style from there. Patterns are statements in themselves so any accessories should be used sparingly or to enhance the pattern. If the pattern is in the top, wear a statement shoe and either a great pair of stand out earrings, or a simple necklace and simpler earrings. If the pattern is in the pant, then you can do more with the accessories up top. Maybe even going for that beautiful scarf you've been trying to find a reason to wear or a fabulous cocktail ring. I say the bigger the better. Mixing patterns has always been a trend on the runways, and many designers have encouraged the look for everyday wear. I believe in practicing what you preach and it has been so much fun mixing patterns and creating the wow factor with a great cardigan and a pair of fun pants.

Sitting is the fabulous high-backed animal print chair
at Cioppino in the Strip District. Cardigan, lace trim camisole,
cross-hatch pants, orange leather perforated shoes and
crystal chandelier earnings, all Ann Taylor. Steel vintage flower
bracelet, a gift from Juanita Lewis- grand-mom   

Mixing black and white patterns is a great place to start. If you dare to try, start with simpler patterns to mix. If you don't quite have the courage to wear the patterns on the outside like I have, try a patterned bottom and a shell or tank, with a black or white cardigan.  When you add the accessories you can either keep it in the color scheme or use them to add a pop of color. I do believe black and white with a pop of color has become my mantra for the season. While out with girlfriends at Cioppino in the Strip District I met a lovely woman who was wearing a great black and white top. Me being me of course approached and asked her wear she got her outfit.

With Chris after having a laugh and showing
off her outfit and fantastic leggings to my
girlfriends, at Cioppino in the Strip

I learned that her name is Chris, she's a mom from Monroeville, and she shops at JCPenney. She was gracious enough to take a photo with me. Intrigued the following day I took a look at the website www.jcpenney.com and found some great stuff. You don't have to break the recession bank to look great. Though I could not find Chris's great tunic top, I did find some other cool things. Here are some of my pics from stores in Pittsburgh easily accessible from all areas of the city, including JCPenney.

Equipment 'signature' sheer silk shirt
Nordstrom $218

Striped Georgette gathered-waist blouse
Ann Taylor $78

Worthington Side-ruched top
JCPenney  $16

Liz Claiborne ruffled top
JCPenney $20

Give them a reason to look Down

 My foray into the world of the boldly patterned pants and bottoms is nothing new, though the print has made  it's mark in a HUGE way this season. Florals and bright colors are always a fun way to try to usher out winter and welcome Spring, sooner than Mother Nature intends to. Especially here in Pittsburgh, the second grayest city in the country. This year seems to be all about mixing patterns and as a result the patterned pant is more important that ever. In my experience most people I come across are absolutely terrified of drawing any attention to the lower half of their body, let alone put a print down there. In styling my clients I have found that for the timid, getting them into any non-neutral pant or skirt is a challenge. Some clients fully embrace bright beautiful yellows and blues and are open to suggestions for how to wear them. But a PRINT?!!! lol Forget it.

Milan Fall 2006

       I bought my first pair of boldly printed pants over 6 years ago while studying abroad in Italy. For some reason traveling over seas gives us courage to meet people, eat things, and wear things we might not dare back home. I have always been a bit more adventurous and I'd like to think I'm an open minded person, and the opinions of other's is something I try not to give too much thought when making decisions about what I wear, or to what I listen. The phrase "when in Rome" is one that resonates with me, and while living in Tuscany I was determined to bring home a piece of fashion that was quintessentially and recognizably Italian.
        First let me say that while in Europe, I quickly learned how little I actually knew about fashion and style. I had style, and I understood how to dress, but I didn't understand anything about the footprints and trademarks of a great fashion house. Enter my first encounter with the great house of Missoni. I had heard the name Missoni, and I had seen ads in high fashion magazines so I knew it to be an important name in fashion. That's are far as my knowledge went. Missoni as I would learn is all about color, knits and fabrics that flow, and of course patterns. While walking through the streets Florence my first week in Italy, my colleague and I ventured into several high end fashion hallmarks.

me in Florence on the steps of the Duomo after my purchase
Fall 2006

 When we entered into Missoni, where we were overwhelmed with a see of bright beautiful colors demonstrated in lush and soft fabrics and knits. Their terry cloth towels looked so inviting. I wanted to just wrap myself up and perch on the red hued zig-zag ottoman in the corner. Mind you, being that I was a student, there were no delusions about the affordability of the product. After 10 minutes of perusing, we made a line straight for the sale section.
     I went through the rack just hoping to find something I could actually afford. I love color, and I love prints. I love expressing myself through my wardrobe and I don't mind being noticed. Missoni's brand spoke to me. I had to find something. I can't tell you the anxiety I felt while looking at the price tags. I also can't express the almost irrational state of elation I was in when I found not one but three items. A beautiful open stitched knit poncho in a wave of blues, purple, and pink and two pairs of pants. Both pairs of pants were beautiful, and they both fit. The poncho was a no brainer. It was definitely going home with me. I was already imagining the numerous tops and dresses it would adorn. The two pairs of pants were completely different and in my mind I could justify purchasing both, though my wallet and the need to eat the rest of the semester still had to be considered. The decision making process began. One was a pair of charcoal gray knit pants with horizontal steaks of whites and grays.

similar to the pants I didn't buy but
thought really hard about bringing home
Missoni Collection

    The other was a knit trouser leg pant with bold horizontal zig zags in bright blue, yellow, winter white and green. One was the safer purchase as noted by my coleague, but the other was undeniably exciting and as the sales woman pointed out, recognizably Missoni. I bought the bright bold pants. We sat on the steps of the Duomo and took photos with our bags.
I wore the pants in Milan and felt great. I felt like part of the throng of fashionable Milanese walking the streets through the fashion district. One of my proudest fashion moments however, was when I was in a perfume store in Paris and a woman approached me from across the room and in a somewhat hushed voice asked "are those pants Missoni?" I tried not to beam and responded in the affirmative.
         Fast forward 6 years later. I wear the pants to work and the compliments I receive have nothing to do with an understanding of the Missoni brand but the simple beauty of the pants. It's women expressing gratitude in seeing someone wear something so bold and unexpected. One client told me the outfit made her happy and the pants were Awesome! Admittedly it took me a long while to feel completely comfortable wearing the pants here in the States. When I finally got the courage to put them on, the response only confirmed what I learned. Missoni is a powerhouse and prints on the bottom are to be embraced.You don't have to buy "designer" and you don't have to jump into the deep end. Take baby steps if you have to. It's never too late to venture out of your comfort zone and fashion is a risk free way to have fun doing it. ;)

me before meeting friends for happy hour
Fall 2012