Who Needs Kitson!

As most everyone knows by this point -- celebrities and movies have taken over Boston! And of course, the Muse couldn't be happier! We have an influx of the best actors from Leonardo DiCaprio to Jennifer Garner. So it is no doubt that local shopkeepers are relishing the glamour stops these stars are making to our restaurants and boutiques.

As one comment mentioned our very own Crush Boutique made it into the rags as celebrities have been bopping-in including Miss Anne Hathaway! It is so nice to see Boston catching up with other cities in the fashion dept! And Crush is a great boutique aside from carrying trendy items, they know what looks good on their customers and are invested in making sure you look good for the BNO (big night out). I also think it is one of the least pretentious boutiques around.

It looks like soon enough it will be Robertson who? Baby's got a new boyfriend in town and his name is Charles ;)

Happy Earth Day

As you know, today is Earth Day!! And lucky for us it looks like we're getting better at recognizing the environment on a daily basis from the food we eat and the cars we drive.

For all you 'scuppies' (socially conscious and upwardly mobile) out there, today's Muse is for you!! With so many studies and the inundation of information -- use Nalgene, never mind the plastic is bad or the squiggle light-bulbs but watch out for the mercury!! -- It is tough to keep up!

But there is definitely something I can get behind -- eco-fashion! And there are several ways to partake. For example: if you shop from April 22-27 at Banana Republic 1% of sales go to Greener Cities. And BR has several initiatives in the queue to produce more eco-friendly lines.

Or try one of my favorite stores in NYC Te Casan which just launched a line of vegan shoes by Natalie Portman (and they're really cute, not just another celeb line).

I'm thrilled to try the new line of hair care products by Kate Hudson!

And for more ideas check out USA Today which had a great story today on Green Chic.

Add a Green Martini in eco-friendly glass (if that exists) and call me a Scuppy!!

While on the Subject of Men's Style

So I'm loving all the response from the men's style post! And it looks like it is on more than just the Style Muse's mind...Boston Globe online did a great piece, aptly named "Oh, no he didn't!".

How could I have missed my favorite faux pas of the pleated Khaki -- I can't tell you how many heated conversations I've had with guys about that one...and no, I don't care how much extra room they give you...

So needless to say there will be much more to come on Men's style!!! In the meantime I'm headed down-south for vacation...Hopefully my trip will be filled with inspiration!

[in honor of Gossip Girl's return] XOXO

All Things White

As the weather turns from what should be spring to full-on summer...my mind is on all things white!

This immediately makes me think of the never-ending question of “Can you wear white before memorial day or after labor-day??"

Regardless of what stylists have been saying, I was a strict supporter of the rule, must be the Puritan in me. But this year I've tossed my own rules to the wayside, because style is about marching to the beat of your own drummer (most of the time).

For those of you who thrive on rules and this still leaves you a bit befuddled -- my own drummer what? -- I'd stick to this: White can be worn year-round as long as you adhere to the appropriate fabric for the season -- like wool for winter, linen/cotton for summer and denim which is my idea of the 3-season suit. That said, try to use common sense, like, bright white top and bottom doesn't really work in early spring (I've tried it trust me) and in winter cooler "winter whites" seem to work best.

So what happens if you make a misstep with White? Nothing. As long as you bring a good dose of self-confidence you'll be fine.

Mother of the Bride

Why is it so difficult to find an MOB (Mother of the Bride) dress? I've been looking high and low for an age appropriate dress that won't have Mother Muse looking like a Vegas Show-Girl that never had the chance to go to the prom!!! For example, perusing Nordstrom's Mother of the Bride section I came across this fab dress and I say fab for me! I mean on what planet does a boomer MOB want to wear this to her daughter's wedding? Conversely, I don't want Mother Muse to look matronly. Factor in budget, body-type and season and I know this quest is not for the faint of heart.

The race is on!

A Few of My Favorite Things

Perusing some of my favorite sites this afternoon (everyone deserves an afternoon tea break) and found this amazing flirty dress on a MAJOR sale!! Sadly the stylemuse is on hiatus from shopping at the moment, but all the better for my friends and family! I'm really enjoying the plethora of ruffles out at the moment. This dress from Kenneth Cole is a perfect bright -- but I would recommend buying a bigger size than the model is wearing (and definitely different shoes, try gladiator/metallic flats).

As I've said before, I'm sad that JCP has hit the mainstream mags and can only hope it doesn't jump the shark prematurely!! But I'm happy to report that there are some real finds right now. Get into the nautical theme with a ruffled stripe shirt (again not sure about this model's outfit).

And totally out of the blue, I found this amazing jewelry site Max & Chloe with the most ridiculous earrings ever!!! I have always loved Jem & the Holograms and with these I finally feel like I might get the chance!!! HA! Admittedly, these are a bit out there, but the site has great stuff from R.J Graziano and Kenneth Jay Lane in one convenient location!

Celebrities Are Just Like Us

I usually try to avoid the "If only I could look like her" in regards to the rich and famous. I try and remember it is their job and that they have a TEAM of people to help them look that way (and almost always when you bump into them at Whole Foods it is a disappointment).

Though, I was very moved by this photo of America Ferrara. She looks stunning, but in a very attainable way. The dress is beautiful in a regal eggplant (one of my favorite hues) and cinches at the smallest part of her waist,drawing attention away from other areas (I suspect the hips). The hair and make-up are done but in an all-American way (kill-me)! This looks should be an inspiration to us all. Got any evening weddings coming this spring?

Get Over Your Bad Self!

"Get over your bad self" is something the Mother Muse tells me frequently, and depending on the context can have all sorts of meanings, but for you today it just means I'd like us all to be free from the preconceived labels we give to certain stores. Just because its Arden B. doesn't mean it is cheesy, and Talbots does not have to mean your grandmother's Sunday best. By holding these notions, we severely limit some serious fashion triumphs! Not to mention, by rising above you'll avoid a fashion rut and leave everyone guessing where you scored the fabulous look.

Still don't believe me??? Well, if Target hasn't sold you on celebrity labels like Isaac and maybe Vera isn't enough to get you to Kohl's, consider this - many of the creative directors behind labels you love are actually not creating the pieces you're wearing.

For example, I bet many of you wouldn't buy Liz Claiborne but tote your Kate Spade proudly...Would you still if you knew that Kate Spade is no longer the creative force behind her brand?

Or would you still pooh-pooh Talbots if you knew the very well-respected Michael Smallbone was behind the brand (formerly of Anne Klein).

phew, ok I think I’ve made my point! You will never find all the things you want in one store, nor should you! A terrible fashion faux-pas would be to look like pg. 76 from a catalog...

So in the essence of sharing, here are a few of my favorite hidden gems:

JC Penney has stealthily built up its brand and now is in many of the mainstream fashion mags. Love the play jewelry and cheap summer dresses! (Check out the jacket above, so cute and just $40)

Victoria Secret has great selection on bathing suits and shoes

Talbots is totally under the radar on handbags, shoes and the occasional party dress. For all the lucky Boston girls -- head to the outlet in Hingham, best deals out there!

When all else fails try the usual suspects: Kohls, Target, H&M, Limited, Marshalls etc.

Getting over your bad self never looked so good!

Shop It To Me!!!

Friends of the Style Muse have been simultaneously thanking and cursing me for the introduction to "Shop it to Me" Alas, I can not be given the credit for this amazing little find, all the credit is bestowed on my Sister Muse.

Quite simply, "Shop it to Me" gathers all your sizes and brands you are interested in and send you a daily email with the sales of the day from your favorite shops. Brilliant!!!

Shop Away!

http://www.shopittome.com/salemail/signup.jsp

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!!!