Men's Style Part One

It has come to my attention that I need to devote more time and effort to men's fashion. I'll admit I find this task pretty daunting, where to start!!!

As I've said before, whether we like it or not style is how we present ourselves to the world. I've needed to remind myself of this on more bleary-eyed days than I can count. So I'm always a little bit in awe when I see a dapper-dressed man. Sure we see men that aren't afraid to be stylish in the media -- the era of grunge and hip-hop has given way to a slew of men that want to look good, just look at Justin Timberlake and Tom Brady. A tremendous example of the grown-up look was NKOTB (New Kids on the Block) on the Today show dressed in fashionable suits, quite the change from when they first came on the scene.

BUT what about the REAL world? In most cases this hasn't caught on to the masses quite yet! That being said, at my office we have the Scottish Style Invasion! As we all know, European men have never been afraid to show their style -- and I love it! Always work-appropriate but polished and fun at the same time, I think all men can take a page out of this book.

My hope is to get real men to share their secrets in the near future, but today It is just me! So here are a few things I think most women want to see...

Clothes that fit! Too big or Too small are Too much...

Just say NO to uber-designer jeans. We still want you to look like a man, Go Levis or even Diesel but leave the Sevens to the ladies...

But indulge in Luxe fabric...Let's face it, you're wardrobe is smaller and you most likely rotate more frequently, so invest in the coziest Cashmere and best qualities...

Aviators are just HOT...

Mix dressy and casual -- Jeans with tie and vest...

This may seem obvious, but no tank-tops ever...

And while we're at it, save the sweats for home...

Ladies what am I missing???? Would love to hear comments on this! There is oh-so-much more on this subject so To Be Continued...

Transitional Clothing

I woke up this morning and went about my business getting ready when the most terrible thing happened! I opened my window to see snow gathering on my deck. It took my eyes a few moments to take in the scene because I dismissed winter at least two weeks ago and the first day of spring is tomorrow!!! HELLO, its EASTER!

This happens every year, I stubbornly decide its spring and Mother Nature laughs in my face. I put my frumpy puffer away in favor of a lighter suede trench only to freeze and catch a cold.

What's a muse to do???

Well coats and closed-toe shoes are still a necessity, but there are steps we can take to let Mother Nature know who's boss!

First, lose the dark nails, at least for a while. It is so LC (Lauren Conrad) anyway. Opt for a bright fun shade or neutral for those less daring.

Take baby steps towards letting go of some of the black that's been dominating your wardrobe by shifting to something gray then spice it up with a punch of color like a yellow cardigan or belt.

Probably the easiest way to achieve transition is with a scarf which will completely add life to a basic outfit. Old Navy has some great gauzy scarves (see above) that can be casually strewn on, looped, or put into a 1/2 knot. Or try out the new Boho trend with this great Forever 21 tie-dye scarf -- cheap and easy so when it is SO out next season you won't feel bad discarding.

Start small with accessories, jewelry and make-up and let the weather catch-up to you!

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!