The Superbowl of Fashion

Oh, how I love the Oscars! Let me count the ways -- 1. the Jewels 2. the Hair 3. the make-up 4. the dresses and 5. oh yeah, the little gold statues too! This year was somewhat disappointing -- No Vanity Fair after-party, No really star-making moments during the show and I still can't get over the fact Tilda Swinton won Best Supporting Actress -- but I digress.

Who got it right? And Who should fire their stylist? :) This year was not filled with many flagrant fashion missteps, but not many stood out from the pack either. The usual risk-takers were absent like Keira Knightley or Natalie Portman and their presence was missed. For example, Katherine Heigl (why was she there again) looked beautiful, everything just right, but she doesn't make my list. I'm so tired of her Old Hollywood Glamour bit. I like Glamour as much as the next person, but it is 2008 and I wish she would mix it up a bit.

So who did make the cut? I have a surprising choice for my #1 pick of Best Dressed this year -- It goes to Ruby Dee from American Gangster. She was flawless: perfect hair, make-up, jewels and dress. And they were all age appropriate which is no small feat!

Other toppers of the evening were:

Dresses: Cameron Diaz, Heidi Klum, Renee Zellweger

Hair & Make-Up: Jen Garner, Marion Cotillard, Kristin Chenoweth

You would think with the stylists, money and time the Red Carpet-brigade could hit the trifecta, but few made it happen.

Best Overall Goes to Penelope Cruz, Keri Russell, Miley Cyrus and Amy Adams (I'm a sucker for Red Hair/Emerald frock combo).

And... The Oh Dear! Awards: Jennifer Hudson, Diablo Cody, Tilda Swinton

My final thought from the event was DAMN you Hollywood stylists!!! In one evening they made sure that the one-shoulder look (which I adore) will jump-the-shark faster than you can say Tory Burch.

'Til next year!

Dreamin' of Summer

Dear Muse, I am starting to think about the summer and want to get a cool beach cover-up. I like the fitted tunic style, but they all seem to be very mumu-like or designed for an evening out. Any good hints? Thanks, Dreamin' of Summer

A. Oh summer!! It seems to be on everyone's mind lately. I blame the resort collections cropping up all over the place. For those lucky enough to get away, and those that pin the bikini to the closet door for inspiration, beachy items are all over the place! For those that hit the latter category, I definitely suggest waiting a bit for items to go on sale. In fact, Banana Republic is having some decent sales on spring-like inventory including some great orange blouses which I love!

On to the question at hand, cover-ups! Oh how times have changed!!! When I was younger I would strategically wear cover-ups to hide parts I deemed unsightly, and sadly as the years press on, its more about covering up from the sun's harmful rays (and maybe still a bit of the former). Either way, I agree they can be hard to find. While there is always the ubiquitous Juicy Couture terrycloth sundress (and I do love terrycloth), for something a bit more grown-up try this J. Crew light-weight and summery cotton tunic. Or for something easier to get on and off, try a cover-up from Lands' End -- they have this great turquiose zip-up cotton number for just $28.50 http://www.landsend.com/.

Less is More, except, when More is More

Dear Muse: I love your blog so far. With summer quickly approaching, which means the amount of exposed flesh will soon be on the rise, what is your opinion in regards to classy cleavage vs. trashy cleavage?

A. As a well-endowed female myself, I've spent a lot of years addressing this issue much to my father's raised eyebrows. And after much trial and error, I've come to a few opinions on the way.

Sadly, for those of us with cleavage in practically everything, we must come to grips and admit that the stunning attire of Kate Hudson in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days is just not going to fly.

So my opinion is this: at the office, NO cleavage EVER. It is too much of a distraction to everyone around. However, on those summer nights out with friends -- show off your best assets, no matter what those assets might be -- but keep the rest demure like Scarlett Johansson instead you'll look like Pam Anderson.

Business Casual is Still Business!

Dear Style Muse, I just started a new job at a large company. The dress code is business casual, but on the more conservative/dressy side of the spectrum. I have my fair share of slacks, button down shirts and cardigans, but I wanted to see if you have any other ideas for work staples to look out for, or particular stores to visit, when I go spring shopping. Any advice you might have would be appreciated! Yours truly, D.C.

A. Oh have I struggled with this concept! You want to be respected, but you want to be comfortable. It sounds like you are on the right track in your wardrobe. The good news about business casual is that it allows for a bit of creativity, by pairing something more conservative with a few bold choices. For example, a fun dress belted and paired with a blazer and heels will take you from the office to drinks. Blazers also work well with jeans (not torn jeans but a tailored pair in dark hue). The easiest fail-safe advice on the business-casual front I can give anyone is to keep a client/meeting appropriate outfit at your office in case of emergencies.

As far as stores to look at -- it sounds like you are frequenting J. Crew, Banana Republic etc. --I'd add in some cheaper trendier counterpoints for layering with the basics: Zara and H&M as well as Nordstrom and other Dept. stores during their bi-annual sales.

As a last note, I think this is a good place to point out that nude-pantyhose are always a NO! When you can get away with it, go bare, and when you can't, match your stockings to your shoes.

Spring Updates

Question from a Curious Bee: Hey muse, If you could only buy five items (apparel, accessories, etc.) for Spring, what would they be? I need to update my wardrobe but need to keep it simple. Would love some fresh thinking from a Boston girl.

A. It is hard to narrow down to just 5 items, but I'll give a shot! The good news is a lot of styles from last season are carrying over this spring including bright colors and patent accessories. To keep it simple pick one of this season's trends and add with the basics you already have like a sheath dress or jeans!

1. Add a shot of color with a bright heel in a patent leather cherry red or a snakeskin kelly green -- I've been loving these Cole Haan heels:

2. I'm a big fan of the Safari look and with spring's finicky weather a light-weight safari jacket is not only essential but a great way to add in this trend.

3. In addition to Safari, the Bohemian look is back in a big way!!! Try accessorizing with natural looking necklaces and bangles in wood, cork and straw. Forever 21's accessories are so cheap you can afford a few and not feel guilty when they are laid to rest.

4. When I first heard about that florals were hitting the stores I had visions [read: nightmares] of my sister's Junior Prom dress from Laura Ashley!!! But after seeing the fresh take I'm in love! Try a floral blouse or skirt in a lighter fabric (to match the mood). I've seen some great multi-floral blouses at Zara (Open in Natick and coming to Newbury this spring) or grab a more beachy-take with Tibi's giant floral shirts and dresses out now.

5. Lastly, since I know this is Boston and neither an uber-trendy city, nor a vacation, I'd say go with a neutral-colored bag (bonus for woven leather) to take everywhere and with every trend!

Those are a few ways to get you started. There are a lot of different (sometimes conflicting) trends out there, so please use sparingly added to the basics you own, and remember just because Safari is in doesn't mean it goes well with the Florals you'll see out and about!

It’s a Man’s World

I definitely don’t believe that! but sometimes…

After yesterday’s post, I decided to muse a bit on the button-down shirt. I love the look, but the fit? It can be VERY difficult to say the least. Our anatomy is quite different then men, but yet many mainstream stores don’t quite get that chests come in all sorts of sizes. For this reason, more often than not, you’ll see me sport a button-down underneath an outfit to avoid the misshapen gap between buttons.

Not anymore! I’m tossing aside my cardigans and jackets! A friend of mine let me in on her secret and its brilliant! Take your button-downs to the tailor and have them add a little hook-eye on the inside between buttons – no more safety pins for me!!!

Another great, but slightly expensive, option ($195/shirt) is the amazing Rebecca & Drew shirt tailored specifically for your chest/waist/hip measurements. Order online at http://www.rebeccaanddrew.com/.

Saint Valentine

A friend of mine has asked what to wear for the big V-day! As long as it isn’t a first date (and honestly I’d try to avoid that if possible) you should have a bit of fun! We all know Valentine’s Day is a bit contrived, but I suggest going all out and getting into the act. Inspire a little romance with something flirty and feminine – black trousers with a ruffled top, a cozy knit wrap dress with killer earrings or the no-fail LBD (little black dress). Remind the guy why your worth the flowers and the chocolates. Go ahead and don flirty lingerie, spritz the sultry perfume, curl those lashes and enjoy the company of the one your with.

Musings on First Date Attire

My friend has a first date with a handsome fella tonight!!! Lucky for us we have innumerable experience in first dates (or maybe not so lucky?) Either way we’ve had some serious convos on what to wear on a first date, but for the longest time we never bothered to consult a male for his opinion. So while we think it doesn’t get sexier than a turtleneck and jeans (in winter) it turns out that many males don’t share our perspective. Over the course of many tragic first dates (anyone remember the broken foot fiasco) we’ve managed to compromise, because while it is important that the opposite sex finds you attractive – it is always more important that you think you are!!!

So here is the low-down from my male friend – a turtleneck conveys that the woman is “uptight” and can’t loosen up and enjoy herself. I see his point and think a compromise can definitely be achieved in the turtleneck category (3rd date).

Conversely, I will add that too-loose attire should be avoided for the obvious reasons -- like an interview, you want the person sitting across from you to be focused on you! So save the club attire for Vegas.

Now curiously a look that scored high with many of my male friends is the fitted button-down shirt and jeans (blazer optional). The guys like it because it gives an open-vibe while leaving enough to the imagination. Think Jennifer Aniston... (If button-down is not your thing a stylish blouse and/or jacket can achieve the same effect).

Like it or not, what we choose to wear speaks volumes to those around us (especially as a first/second impression). If you have a side of Rocker/Hippie/Preppie Chick save it for the conversation and not the outfit. The guy should have to work just a bit to figure out who you are…after all you don’t want to give up everything on the first date!!!

Madras is Timeless

Hooray! My first question...Boston Girl 26 asks:

"Style Muse - HELP! I am a classic prep but I realize it's time for me to update my look. How can I integrate a few hip pieces into my wardrobe?"

A: Well first off -- no Vera! ha just kidding :) Classic prep is a great look and you shouldn't feel the need to invest in crazy trends which will only make you feel like you are wearing a costume. That being said, if you dress in head-to-toe prep you will look like you are wearing a costume. For example a madras skirt can stand alone -- you do not need to double up the Ralph Lauren polos to go with it (or at all).

The most effective way to embrace trends is through accessories...Killer sunglasses, statement rings and necklaces, a great bag and shoes makes the sweater set and khaki combo fresh! The other key is to make sure things fit well, see a tailor regularly so that prep doesn't become matronly.

And remember to cut yourself some slack...you are in great company: Grace Kelly, Jackie O, Audrey Hepburn etc.

Style Muse vs. Vera Bradley

Friends of the Style Muse can attest that few things get me as riled up as a Vera Bradley bag...the very sight makes my blood go cold. After living in New England for many years I've had to concede two things to Ms. Vera Bradley: If you must carry a VB please limit it to the gym or a weekend away.

I'm not sure when this trend (I use the word loosely) took hold but it needs to be addressed. A cloth bag with bright matronly prints does not say style, it says "Grandma's Knitting Club." I think what gets under my skin the most is that I see the VB's carrying it around like a status symbol...It is a symbol of something else entirely.

Now as much as I do lust over M-A-J-O-R bags that Posh herself would carry, I do understand that many of us simply can't or won't spend that kind of money on a bag...Nor do you need to!

In my history of handbags (there have been a few) it wasn't the Gucci or Marc Jacobs that received the most googly eyed, must have gasps but a white PLEATHER tote bag from the Limited!!! For $50 bucks....

So while I know many of my friends will read this and disagree -- and while much of fashion and this blog are subjective....Please take my word on this: Leave the VB at home...

Ask the Style Muse

Just a quick note to let you all know that since I am here for you, I want to hear from you. Please e-mail me your burning style questions, so I'm not just here musing all alone.

E-mail: musestyle@gmail.com

Thanks!

The Muse Introduction

Hello!!! We all have those days that we just don’t care what we look like -- maybe because you were out last night and work came too early or you didn’t have enough detergent for laundry – but we always feel better when we put effort into the way we look.

There are a lot of challenges when it comes to looking good, for me it is frequently money, size, weather and what feels appropriate for the situation.

This blog is to aid those that need style advice or just a gentle reminder to be their best. I am the Style Muse and I’m here for you! Enjoy…