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 .