For me, the perfect wardrobe is full of multipurpose items that can be easily mixed and matched. Audrey Tom of Putting Me Together has mastered the art of reimagining – or remixing – pieces in her closet, resulting in a versatile and fabulous wardrobe. The best part is that she has moved beyond bland neutrals and has successfully integrated colors and patterns without ending up with a closet full of one-hit wonders. We picked her brain to find out how she buys clothes that can be remixed with the rest of her closet, and how she puts outfits together.

SB: What is the most versatile item in your wardrobe?

A: Oh, this is a hard one! I think it’d either have to be my mustard cardigan or my floral tank. Those two pieces go with nearly anything!

mustard cardigan – J.Crew, floral tank – Quicksilver

SB: What’s your starting point when you’re building an outfit?

A: I usually start with the bottom half. I naturally tend to stick with skinny jeans and a cute top, so in an attempt to vary my outfits I now start with the bottom half so that I’m not always defaulting to regular old jeans.

SB: What’s your favorite base outfit and how do you give it more character?

A: My favorite is a cute top and jeans, and I usually change it up with different colored blazers, cardigans, and statement necklaces.

print sleeveless blouse – Equipment, dark skinny jeans – Rag & Bone, grey booties – Rag & Bone, mint green statement necklace – Pim, cardigan – Merona, yellow tweed jacket – Mossimo

SB: Are there any pieces that can’t be remixed? How do I know which items are “one-hit wonders” when I’m out shopping?

A: I think most pieces can be remixed, but to varying degrees and depending on your style.

To figure out if an item will be a “one hit wonder” for me, I have a quick checklist of things I want the garment to be able to do. For example, if I’m looking at a top I might ask myself, “Can I wear it by itself, tuck it into a skirt, and belt it or knot it?” I can tell easily if I’ll be able to wear it with a lot of different bottoms. Or I might ask myself, “How many of my colored cardigans will this go with?” and aim for at least 2-3 different colors.

I have a more extensive response to this on my blog that you can check out too!

Stylebook’s Tip: Test Out Your Purchases

Search for potential purchases in the Shopping Feature and add them to your Stylebook closet. You can then test the item out with your existing wardrobe and see how many different outfits you can create with your clothes.

SB: What styling tips do you have in your arsenal for making a single item go the distance?

A: Accessorize! A different necklace, a different belt, a different pair of shoes, or adding a scarf can go a long way.

white t-shirt dress – Inhabit, zebra infinity scarf – Topshop, grey booties – Rag & Bone, brown belt – Isabel Marant, black ankle cuff heels – Vince, mint green statement necklace – Pim, color-block heels – Dolce Vita

SB: Do you have any advice on neutrals other than black, white, and grey?

A: Navy, brown, and tan are also great neutrals. Olive and maroon are pseudo-neutrals and can go with a lot of things that you wouldn’t expect. One of my favorite pairings for olive is with dark royal purple!

brown tank – T by Alexander Wang, tan tank – Jasmine Di Milo, olive green tank – T by Alexander Wang, maroon tank – T by Alexander Wang, navy tank – Merona

SB: On your journey to create a remixable wardrobe, what were some of your mistakes?

A: Oh, so many! I bought a lot of pieces that I saw on other blogs that I thought I needed but I didn’t take into account whether they actually worked for my style and my lifestyle. I had to get smarter about making shopping decisions rather than getting excited about seeing items on other people and impulsively buying them.

SB: On your blog, you write about how accessories can pull a look together. How do you select belts and necklaces that can work with multiple items?

A: When I first bought belts, I made sure to have them in neutral colors, my favorite being cognac. I talk here about choosing wardrobe colors, and as I branched out to more belts and necklaces I began with colors that were in the color palette I chose for my wardrobe. It seemed to work well.

brown belt – Express, coral belt – Labour of LOVE, green belt – J.Crew, striped belt – J.Crew Factory

SB: How would you remix a chambray button-front shirt?

A:

1. knotted over a flowy, feminine a-line skirt with neutral peep-toe heels or sandals
2. half-tucked into dark denim with a tan belt and leopard pumps
3. under a bright colored or patterned sweater
4. knotted over a colored pencil skirt or bright floral pencil skirt, preferably yellow! with neutral heels
5. Black denim, a neutral cardi, a chunky maroon scarf, and cognac boots or grey booties

chambray shirt – Madewell, striped skirt – ModCloth, peep-toe heels – Swedish Hasbeens, brown belt – Express, dark jeans – Rag & Bone, leopard pumps – Liz Claiborne, yellow pencil skirt – DSquared, color-block heels – Dolce Vita, maroon infinity scarf – Barneys New York, cardigan – Merona, grey booties – Rag & Bone

Stylebook‘s Tip: Save Your Outfit Remixes! 

As you come up with outfit ideas, save them in Stylebook.  Then, the next time you feel like wearing your chambray shirt, review its outfit history and you can see some of the the interesting ideas you came up with. This is great if you need to get dressed in a hurry or if you want to break out of an outfit rut.

Get more style advice from Audrey on her blog Putting Me Together 

SB: You made an amazing graphic on how to edit your wardrobe. What are some of the benefits of periodically purging your closet?

SB: Is a smaller wardrobe always better?

vintage Chanel jacket – Farfetch.com, sewing machine – Macy’s, measuring tape – Crate & Barrel

SB: I often end up with pieces that I like in principle but they don’t fit the way I want them to. Should I have them altered or should I try to replace them by purchasing a more flattering alternative?

K: This depends. If the piece is unique and special (say, vintage or designer) by all means get it altered. But, if it’s easily replaced by a more flattering article that you can find at your local mall or favorite online shop, I recommend cutting your losses. Also, be realistic with yourself, if you haven’t taken it to get altered by now, will you ever?

SB: How can I figure out if a sentimental item is really worth keeping? Sometimes it seems like all of my old clothes have some sentimental value. 

sequin dress – Gryphon , floral t-shirt dress – Malene Berger, black fringe dress – Marc Jacobs, draped dress – ModCloth

SB: I have a few special occasion dresses that I love because they are so distinct. Unfortunately, this means they are also very memorable, so I basically never wear them. Should I keep them?

aromatic cedar closet kit – Bed Bath & Beyond, patterned boxes – The Container Store

SB: Do you have any special tips for preventing closet clutter before it happens?

It’s the time of year when our mailboxes fill up with invitations to all kinds of holiday and New Year’s Eve parties…office parties, house parties, cocktail parties. It’s exciting – but sometimes challenging – to find the perfect dress. Christa, from made-to-order dressmakers Bow & Drape, sat down to explain how to pick the right dress for your body and how to deal with winter weather without  sacrificing your style.

SB: What dress shapes are best according to body type?

C:

• Hourglass - The Jackie is perfect for an hourglass shape. The silhouette is designed to accentuate curves.
• Pear - The Michelle Swing is beautiful on a pear shape figure. The combination of the full skirt and the fitted top is an interesting contrast.
• Apple - The Twiggy is well-suited and flattering for apple figures. This 60′s-inspired shift dress is a simple and chic look.
• Petite - All our silhouettes have the option to select hem length. For a petite shape, any design with a mini or knee length hem will be ideal.
• Tall - The Diane Maxi is stunning on a tall figure.

sketches of some of the dress styles Bow & Drape offers

SB: What little black dress can I wear to fancy cocktail parties but also to more casual holiday parties? How should I accessorize in both situations?

C: The black Twiggy with a scallop hem and brass beading is a versatile and classic look. For a fancy cocktail party, I would accessorize with a statement necklace and bright colored heels. For a more casual look, I would accessorize with black tights and jewel-toned flats.

LBD – Bow & Drape, necklace – ASOS, blue pumps – Rachel Roy, opaque tights – Ralph Lauren, flats – Madewell

SB: How do I pick the proper skirt length for my body?

C: A good rule of thumb when choosing the hem length on a skirt is where the skirt falls around your kneecap. The skirt should hit below the knee or an inch above the knee.

SB: You offer a few different necklines. What is the most flattering for a small bust and what’s better for a larger bust line?

C: On a small bust, the boatneck is an elegant option. On a larger bust, the v-neck is very flattering.

SB: It’s cold in NYC during holiday party season. What dress shapes and colors look best with winter accessories like tights or slick knee high boots?

C: Any silhouette can be paired with tights for a more seasonal look. The Twiggy is a perfect silhouette for knee high boots; I love the combination of a simple shift dress and a bold boot.

This holiday season, I love our emerald shade – it is a rich color that will make a statement.

The Diane Maxi is also a nice option for a holiday party. This maxi dress covers your legs and is a timeless, classic design.

Left: long sleeve shift – Bow & Drape, gold drop earrings – Heather Hawkins, brass cuff – Pamela Love, opaque tights – Ralph Lauren, knee high boots – Sam Edelman Right: wrap maxi dress – Bow & Drape, leather jacket – Alexander Wang, horn earrings – Gabriela Artigas, t-strap pumps – Elizabeth & James

SB: What are your favorite ways to stay warm while your dressed up and jetting around town?

C: Our Perfect Scarf is my favorite winter accessory. The extralong length makes it easy to stylishly wrap and keeps you warm. Also, a wool coat and a hat are staple pieces for winter weather.

leopard ball cap - Anthropologie, red belted wool coat – Diane von Furstenberg, floppy brim fedora – Rag and Bone, cropped double-breasted wool coat – DSquared, red felt cloche – Anthropologie, scarf – Bow & Drape, knit sleeve jacket – Mossimo, knit pom-pom hat – Neiman Marcus, wool trench – Helene Berman

SB: How can I accessorize an embellished dress without going over the top?

C: Earrings are a great accessory when your dress has a lot of detail. I think a complimentary pair of earrings adds a nice balance.

pink wrap dress with embellished belt – Bow & Drape, silver plated crystal earrings – Lulu Frost, crystal and bead earrings – J.Crew, crystal drop earrings – Kenneth Jay Lane

SB: What silhouettes are best for going from the office to dinner?

C: The Jackie and the Diane are great silhouettes for the office and translate well to a night out. Also, the Twiggy can be belted or unbelted to accomodate different occasions.

black peplum dress – Bow & Drape, black and white kitten heels – Ann Taylor, tote – J.Crew, peplum jacket – TopShop, statement necklace – BCBG Max Azria, geometric clutch – BCBG Max Azria, pointed heels – Kurt Geiger

SB: Do you have any styling secrets you’d like to share?

C: Making sure that your shoes compliment your outfit is very important. I always make sure I have the appropriate style shoe for any occasion.

color block bow pumps – Isaac Mizrahi, ankle strap D’Orsay with embellished heel – Steven, ankle strap sandals – Tibi, patent pumps – Alice & Olivia

Arianna Vargas of Arianna Belle Organized Interiors

Keeping your closet organized and clutter-free is easier than you think. Interior and organizational expert Arianna Vargas gave us some tips to help improve even the tiniest city closet on a small budget.

SB: What’s the first thing I should do when starting to organize my closet?

A: Declutter – which basically means edit, edit, edit. Get rid of all the items that no longer suit your style, don’t fit properly, have stains or are too worn out  - generally anything you don’t feel good in. Getting rid of all the clutter will free up valuable space and allow the items you do wear and love room to breathe.

wire laundry hamper - Container Store, pink ruffled laundry bag - UO , drawstring laundry bag - UO , free standing closet - Crate & Barrel

SB: I love a walk-in closet just as much as the next girl, but in the city that’s often not an option. What are some space-saving closet storage tips?

A: In small spaces, maximize vertical space as much as possible. Install shelves and keep out-of-season or less frequently worn items up top. Use hooks on any available wall space for handbags, belts and necklaces.  For shoes, try an over-the-door rack.

over the door shoe rack – Whitmor, coat rack – CB2, wall hooks – Kohl’s, storage bins – Container Store

SB: I often can’t see the forest for the trees when it comes to accessories. Any tips on how to keep small items neatly organized and visible?

A: A hanging organizer with clear pockets like this one is great for separating small items and allowing you to see what you have at a glance.

SB: I’ve heard I should remove my purse’s contents before putting the bag away in the closet. What should I do with all my stuff? 

A: I’d only recommend that if you’re shelving it away for a while. It’s perfectly fine to leave your stuff inside your current go-to everyday bag.  When you’re ready to switch to a different bag, make transferring your stuff easier by keeping items within smaller bags and pouches

pink structured shoulder bag – J.Crew, London pouch – Oasis, silicone cosmetic case – Macy’s, monogram pouch – Yoox.com, bow cosmetic case – J.Crew

SB: When I come home, I often clutter up my room with my current bag, shoes, etc. Any recommendations on how I can maintain order without having to put my heavy-rotation items in deep storage?

A: Pay attention to where you tend to leave your items and consider creating a home for them there. For example, when I come home, I tend to bring my work tote into my home office instead of taking it to the closet since I usually have my planner, phone, etc. in there. So what I did was designate a cubby for it within the storage unit I have behind my desk (photos to come soon on the blog!)  Think about what would be most convenient and easy for you. If you tend to leave your bag in the entry, install a hook there.  If you tend to leave shoes on the floor, designate a basket to contain them.

yellow frame mirror – Horchow, rustic entry way console – Crate & Barrel, bag hook – Bed Bath & Beyond, boot tray – Viva Terra, storage bin – Serena & Lily

SB: I’ve been searching for a nice-looking laundry basket for years now. Any recommendations on how to hold my laundry and dry cleaning until laundry day?

A: I recently came across these beautiful hand-woven African basket hampers from Connected Fair Trade. Loving them as a unique and stylish option for laundry.

Handmade Fair Trade Woven African Hamper, Woven Storage Laundry Basket with Lid, Large Woven Gourd Basket with Lid (all from Connected Fair Trade).

SB: What are your tips for storing hats, sunglasses, belts, and shoes (even the practical pairs that might not be display-worthy – like workout sneakers)?

A:

• hats – Hang them on hooks, or store them in photo labeled boxes
• sunglasses – Contain them within a vanity tray or hang them on a diy organizer.
• belts – Install hooks on a wall or try a belt hanger 
• shoes – Practical pairs that you don’t necessarily want to display, like workout sneakers, can go in lower least visible shelves or cubbies, or if you really want to keep them out of sight you can hide them in a storage ottoman located wherever is most practical, such as near the entry so you can put them on right when you’re heading out the door and take them off right when you come in.

hat box – Container Store, monogram hooks – Anthropologie, gold tray – DVF, storage ottoman – Safaveih

SB: Any tricks for getting the look of a glamorous custom closet with store-bought items?

Asses how much of each thing you need to store, measure your space and draw out a plan before buying anything.Take your time researching pieces that will best fit  your space and needs. Use paint and wallpaper to customize and glam up the overall look. (Stylebook Tip: Get temporary wallpaper at Sherwin Williams if you rent)

Marrakesh Honey Wallpaper – Urban Outfitters, butterfly wallpaper – Graham & Brown

SB: Are there any mistakes I should avoid while organizing my space? 

A: Some people make the mistake of storing items in such a way that it’s a pain to maintain and so it quickly goes from organized back to unorganized.

Make sure frequently used items are as easy to access and put away as possible. For example, when it comes to shoes only put them in boxes if they’re ones that you occasionally use. Boxes are not a practical option for pairs you wear frequently because (1) removing the box from its location, (2) opening it, (3) placing the shoes inside, (4) placing the lid back on, and (5) putting the box back in its home, is way too many steps for the rush of daily life.  Go with something easy (like placing them on a shelf) that will require as few steps as possible.

shoe cubby – Container Store , handbag storage cubby – Container Store

SB: What’s your favorite source for interior inspiration (websites, books, movies, etc)?

A: Pinterest is a daily go-to and I can always count on the many blogs I follow to provide a dose of inspiration whenever I need it. I also love Canadian shelter mags like Style at Home and House and Home.

For more home organization and interior design tips check out Arianna’s blog here 

Anya Sarre ShoeDazzle Stylist

Fashion is a way that we express our personality to the world. The clothing we wear is often a reflection of who we are and how we want others to see us. It is a form of expression that enhances our appearance. The most important thing about clothing and fashion is that whatever we wear, we do it with confidence and comfort. If you wear something that fits your style and feels comfortable, you will look beautiful no matter what brand or designer it is.

Not all fashion trends will suit everyone’s body and personality but confidence is an accessory that everyone should carry with them, regardless of what they are wearing.

• Spice Up Your Daily Routine -

1. Shoes with a small wedge and boots with a mid heel can give you extra height for casual looks.
2. This season’s cap-toe stilettos and wedge boots will look good for nights out. Curvy girls should look for clothes that will showcase their enviable curves. Dare to take advantage of your fashion sense and display yourself and your style.
3. Try pairing colored denim with a ballerina flat or a maxi skirt with thin sweater this fall for the perfect seasonal look with a fraction of the headache.

draped dress - Helmut Lang, silver cuff – TopShop, pointed-toe ankle boot with cutout – ShoeDazzle, open-knit linen sweater - Kain Aire, envelope clutch – Wendy Nichol, maxi skirt – Reiss, ankle strap flats – ShoeDazzle

• A Trendy Pair of Flats  - You want to have a nice pair of flats for days when you will be doing a lot of walking. This fall season, it is all about embellishment. You can purchase ballerina flats with sequins, studs, or beads. Cap-toe ballerina flats or pointy flats are also a huge trend. Another shoe  making a comeback is the slipper, also in a variety of materials, patterns, and of course, embellishments.
  

  Ankle strap cap=toe flats with stud detail – ShoeDazzle

• Colored Skinny Jeans- The uniform for summer was sorbet-colored skinny jeans; this fall, colored jeans are still a big hit. Choose a pair in the fall tone that best suits your personality. You can wear them with boots and a loose blouse for a casual look and change into platform shoes and a dressy top for a night out.
  

  yellow jeans – J.Crew, python button-down – Equipment, clutch – Coach, navy cardigan – J.Crew, brown equestrian boots – ShoeDazzle, sequin tank – TopShop, purple platforms – ShoeDazzle

• A Silky Button Down Blouse- One of the most versatile pieces that you can buy is a button-down blouse. Opt for a silky or chiffon fabric that is lightweight and can be worn tucked inside miniskirts or wool shorts or over jeans and pencil skirts.
  

  silk button-down – Equipment, dark jeans – J Brand, equestrian boots – ShoeDazzle, leather skirt – AllSaints, buckle ankle booties – ShoeDazzle, wool shorts – 3.1 Phillip Lim, ankle strap flats – ShoeDazzle, miniskirt – MSGM, ankle boots – ShoeDazzle

You can be that stylish girl walking down the street this fall. All you need to do is invest in a few versatile pieces. Remember, the most important thing is that they fit your body, personality, and that you feel comfortable in them!

Find out more about Anya and ShoeDazzle here

portrait courtesy of Cheetah is the New Black

SB: What are the top five clothing pieces your closet wouldn’t be complete without?

A: 1) Leather Jacket 2) Pants 3) Boyfriend Jeans 4) Leopard Print Heels 5) Silk Blouse

leather jacket – Rag & Bone, boyfriend jeans – Current/Elliot, leather pants – Acne, silk blouse – Equipment, leopard heels – Ivanka Trump

SB: What are the most useful wardrobe basics you own? 

A: Classic white and grey t-shirts (Old Navy sells my favorite tee’s at an unbeatable price point) and a great fitting pair of jeans.

t-shirts – Old Navy, outfit photos courtesy of Cheetah is the New Black

SB: How do you use them?

A: I like to pair dressier separates (e.g. skirts and pants) with a simple tee, or my boyfriend jeans with silk blouses. I like the rather unassuming mix of dressy and casual as well as a mix of both high and low price points.

SB: What items do you repeat the most and why?

A: My most distressed oldest pair of boyfriend jeans (it’s almost embarrassing how often I wear them) because they’re the most comfortable denim I own. And I wear my leather items (jackets, pants, skirt) quite often to meetings and around the city when I want to feel a bit more dressed up.

distressed boyfriend jeans – J Brand, outfit photos courtesy of Cheetah is the New Black

SB: What key accessories do you own that amp up your wardrobe?

A: My Dannijo bib necklace and J.Crew rhinestone cuff are two of my favorite statement pieces that instantly amp up any ensemble.

bracelet – Blu Bijoux, bib necklace – Dannijo, street style photos courtesy of Cheetah is the New Black

SB: You have a knack for choosing great jewelry. What do you look for when shopping for new pieces?

A: I typically prefer to invest in my jewelry and buy statement items that might be a little pricier but I will want to wear for years to come.

monogram necklace – BaubleBar, star necklace – Gorjana, earrings – Marissa Collections, watch – Michael Kors, chandelier earrings – Dannijo, jewelry box photo courtesy of Cheetah is the New Black

SB: Your green Philip Lim 3.1 Pashli Satchel is gorgeous and looks great with all your looks. How did you know it would fit in with your wardrobe vs. a neutral bag?

A: When I bought my Pashli Satchel, I knew I should probably go the safe, neutral-colored route, but I was instantly drawn to the green and hadn’t seen anyone else with it so I was sold. Turns out, it’s quite the neutral in itself and is going to be the perfect transitional bag into fall and winter as well.

green satchel – 3.1 Phillip Lim, portrait courtesy of Cheetah is the New Black

SB: What is your number one styling tip?  

A: Don’t take trends or fashion too seriously. If you feel comfortable in it, wear it.

SB: Where do you go for fashion inspiration? 

A: Online (I read a lot of blogs) and magazines. (See her entire blogroll here)

SB: Can you give us look ideas for the following: a little white dress, boyfriend jeans, striped shorts?

A:

1. little white dress - pair with a panama hat and bold red lip 
   

   panama hat – GAP, white dress – TopShop, red lipstick – MAC

2. boyfriend jeans - pair with a fancy peplum top in a bold color or pattern and heels
   

   pink peplum top – Topshop, distressed boyfriend jeans – J Brand, black heels – Boutique 9

3. striped shorts - pair with sandals and a floral blouse for a little pattern mixing
   

   floral t-shirt – Topshop, striped shorts – J.Crew, sandals – Gentle Souls

photo of Joseph: Fichera Fotography

SB: Can you give specific tips on how you can tell if a luxury handbag is authentic for each of the following brands: Chanel, Coach, and Prada?

J: Chanel bags are the third most replicated designer brand in the world. Some details to look out for when purchasing a second hand Chanel bag are the stitching.  

1. Stitching should be consistently even and about 6 stitches per Inch.
2. The top hook of the right C will always interlock with the left C and not the other way around.
3. Whenever possible, ask for the certificate of authenticity.
4. Chanel puts a hologram on the inside of their handbags and has done so since 1988. These holograms feature a Chanel logo and serial number that will match the one on the certificate of authenticity. If you try to remove one of these hologram seals, they will come off in pieces and make a mess.

chain strap purse: Chanel

Coach products have become very popular to reproduce recently. Even large stores have started carrying “Coach-like” bags. 

1. The letter on a Coach bag will always be a double “C” – not a “G” or “O”. The “C’s” will always be in an even row lining up into the center of the bag. The “C’s” will also be in doubles, not alternating with every other one in an opposite direction.
2. Coach dust bags will always be a deep chocolate color with a red drawstring.The Coach logo and “Est. 1941″ will be printed in white in the bottom right corner of the dust bag.
3. The interior serial number should start with “No” and have 4 numbers after the dash, not 3. The writing should be neat on the authenticity tag, not crookedly stamped on. Also, the paragraph above the serial number should be in all caps, and in English.
4.  The logo tag should say “Coach” in raised letters (NOT imprinted) and be hung by a beaded chain. The zipper in a Coach bag will always be an YKK Zipper.

inside label – Coach, Audrey Pinnacle, leather tag: Coach, Bleecker Legacy, wallet - Coach,
Poppy Signature Sateen Metallic Slim Zip

Buying a Prada handbag, the most telling thing to look for will be the lining.

1. Prada will always have invisible stitching in their lining.
2. The hardware will always be a high-quality brass and the bag will have a good streamlined shape.

tote – Prada, rouched bag – Prada

SB: I’ve heard of people coming across fake Louboutins. If I spot a pair in a vintage shop, how do I make sure they’re the real deal?

J: Christian Louboutin shoes are among the most popular in Hollywood and are often replicated in a very poor way. Famous for the red soles, Louboutin shoes will always be crafted of the finest leather.

1. The leather on a Louboutin shoe should always be smooth with little or no wrinkles or creases.
2. The inside of every Louboutin is stamped in gold with the logo.
3. On the bottom of each shoe, usually in the middle of the red sole, will be an embossed logo and also the size of the shoe in European sizing.
4. The red on the bottom will always be a brighter crayon red, where some replicas use a dark blood red.
5. If the shoe has crystals in the design, they will always be Swarovski crystals.
6. The shoes will always come in a red dust bag and the box should be a thick tan cardboard.

black pumps – Christian Louboutin

SB: Hermès scarves are amazing and can be a great vintage find. But there are so many prints it’s difficult to identify them. How do I know I’ve found one?

J: Replica Hermès Scarves have become VERY difficult to spot recently.

1. The tag on Hermès scarves will always be white or black and contain the information ‘MADE IN FRANCE 100% SILK DRY CLEAN ONLY’ and ‘FABRIQUE EN FRANCE 100% SOIE’  in both English and French. No other languages will be used.
2. The tag will always be sewn in by hand, in a color matching the tag (usually black or white). Black tags will only be on scarves produced after 2002.
3. The hem on the scarves will always be a hand-rolled hem towards the front and hand stitched in a color perfectly matching the pattern.
4. The printing will be absolutely perfect as the workshop would immediately discard any scarf where the different colors are not perfectly aligned.

yellow scarf – Hermès, red and blue scarf – Hermès

SB: If I’m cleaning out my closet, how can I tell if an item of clothing is suitable for resale on Hello La Mode?

J: If you are looking to refresh your closet, the items Hello La Mode loves are luxury, designer items that are in good condition or even new with tags.  They should have style and be well made.

SB: Do you only accept certain brands?

J: We don’t have a set list of brands we accept, but they should be recognizable and prestigious to be desirable to discerning buyers.  Hello La Mode members are an elite, fashionable bunch!

For more information on Hello La Mode’s shop and their designer experts visit HelloLaMode.com

photos of Catherine and her office courtesy of Catherine Sheppard

I often see articles on the basic items every women should have in their closet (like this). What would be on your list of the top 15 items that make a killer wardrobe?

1. - A great leather jacket
2. - Chunky watch in your favorite metal
3. - A basic little black dress in whatever style reflects you best
4. - Plain pumps – black if you have dark hair, nude if you have light hair
5. - Everyday carry-all handbag
6. - A pair of Converse
7. - A classic blazer in a modern, flattering cut
8. - Chambray shirt
9. - Something sequined (anything)
10. - Cutoff shorts
11. - A fit-like-a-glove pair of skinny jeans
12. - Flat boots in your favorite style
13. - Statement necklace
14. - Metal bracelets that you can mix and match
15. - Metallic clutch

leather jacket – Walker, blazer – Topshop, sequin top – MICHAEL Michael Kors, chambray shirt – MiH Jeans, sneakers – converse, cut off shorts – Old Navy, jeans – Paige, dress – Vix ,necklace – J.Crew, watch – Pierre Petit, bracelets – Coach, pumps - J.Crew, flat ankle boots – LAutre, satchel – Mulberry, metallic clutch – J.Crew

Certain kinds of items can easily work their way into many outfits. In your opinion what should be your most versatile clothing piece?

Definitely your handbag. This is something that you may only switch out every so often so it’s important that you can grab it and walk out the door looking great in whatever outfit you might have on. I would suggest one in a fabric that’s appropriate for multiple seasons, and for day and night. Leather is probably your best bet, and go with a color that is in your general hair tone.

(from left) suede - J.Crew, satchel – MICHAEL Michael Kors, cross-body – Coach, black top handle satchel – Badgley Mischka, black tote – Mulberry, tote with cross-body strap – Dooney & Bourke

How would I wear this item to work, on the weekend, or for a night out? 

A good handbag won’t require any extra styling. You can just grab it and go! In order to make it work for both work and the weekend, get one that is not too slouchy or too structured, but right in the middle. I would recommend keeping a smaller clutch inside your handbag in case you make last-minute plans to go out at night.

satchel – Mulberry, black Minaudiere – Pour la Victoire

What three clothing items or accessories make the biggest difference when updating a wardrobe?

Jewelry, shoes, and a good top layer piece (like a jacket or blazer) are all so key when updating your wardrobe. Even if the rest of the pieces in your closet stay the same, you can make it look completely different by bringing in a few new jewelry pieces, a new pair of shoes, or a great blazer. These are all things that can be updated on a tight budget as well.

necklace – House of Harlow 1960, floral blazer – Topshop, strappy sandal – Alexander Wang

I like clothes that I can wear all year round. Are there any clothing pieces in particular that work well in both warm and chilly weather? 

A great pair of ankle boots can be worn with shorts or a summery dress, or with skinny jeans and a sweater in the winter. Lightweight scarves are great as an added layer in colder weather, and as a simple wrap in warmer climates.

ankle boot with cutout – Whistles, black ankle boot with buckle – Madison Harding, ankle boots – Rebecca Minkoff

Although I like to imagine that I can buy an unlimited supply of fabulous bags, realistically, I only have the budget for one great carryall. What qualities should I consider when looking for a bag that can take me from work to weekend?

If there is any part of your wardrobe not to cut corners on, it’s your everyday bag. I would try to find something that’s the best quality for your budget. A well-made bag is unmistakable and definitely worth a few extra pennies. This doesn’t mean it has to be a four-digit investment, but do your research and find something that is timeless, not too trendy, and perfect for your individual needs. A carryall is something you use extensively every single day – setting it down on concrete, digging through it to find your lipstick, throwing it on your car seat… it will really take a beating, so you want something durable. I would definitely go with a nice leather. Coated canvas (like the classic Louis Vuitton bags) is another great option.

croc-embossed tote – Longchamp, monogram tote – Louis Vuitton, striped reversible tote – Coach

While browsing through street style photos I often see someone with one special piece they wear over and over but that gives them a signature style (like the Delfina Delettrez hand bracelet often seen on Shala Monroque). When I go shopping, how can I look for versatile pieces that have character that won’t wind up in the bin of “clothes to donate” in six months?

Pieces like that usually tend to happen serendipitously. You never know when you will find that perfect thing that’s going to end up defining your style, and often times it doesn’t become a signature piece until you’ve had time to wear it for awhile and get attached to it. The best suggestion I can make is to look outside of the box. You probably won’t find your special piece at a store everyone shops at. It might be a fun vintage find, a unique gift from a stylish friend, or something you discover while traveling. Keep your eye out in unexpected places and listen to your gut!

What do you wish more women would try in their wardrobes?

I think a mistake a lot of women make is to limit pieces in their wardrobe to the first outfit they thought to wear it in. Mixing and matching is the best way to keep your wardrobe fresh and interesting. You can tuck that silk top into a pencil skirt, even though you usually wear it with skinny jeans, etc.

blouse – Tucker, skirt – Topshop, black tote – Proenza Schouler, ankle strap booties – Apepazza, jeans – Paige, clogs – Swedish Hasbeens, drawstring bag – Wendy Nichol, shorts - Old Navy

I’ve heard of stylists holding onto a gown or accessory that is “the one” until the right client and event comes along. Are there any clothing items you’re just dying to try on an upcoming styling project?

I often see a great dress at a vintage store that calls for a whole photo shoot to give it a moment in the sun, and I usually have to just file it in my brain until the right thing comes along. Right now I’m dying to style some edgier photo shoots or clients since I’ve been working with a lot more soft, romantic themes lately. I love it all though!

How far in advance should potential customers contact you for styling advice for an appearance or special occasion? 

It can happen in any time frame, down to the day of the event (yikes!) but coming up with the perfect look usually takes a lot of planning. It’s best to start about a month out, so there’s plenty of time to gather multiple different options until the perfect one comes along. Last minute changes are common, so it’s never a bad idea to have a Plan B look. For some events, like a networking party or industry event, it may not always occur to you to plan your outfit far in advance, but when the day arrives, you will find yourself wishing you had given it more thought. So anytime you are invited to something special, it’s in your best interest to call your stylist or start thinking about what you will wear sooner rather than later. You will be glad when the day comes and your perfect outfit is already figured out!

To find out more about Catherine or if you need help with a closet detox, styling for a big event, or personal shopping advice visit thelifestyled.com. (She even offers virtual styling so you can get her great advice wherever you are!) 

photo courtesy of Catherine Sheppard

Luckily Cecelia, co-founder of CakeStyle has solved both my problems. CakeStyle is a personal styling and shopping service that sends subscribers a box of personalized clothing selections each month. She shared her advice on how to choose clothes that will make it through the long-haul and walked me through the idea behind CakeStyle.

photo of Cecelia and CakeStyle box courtesy of CakeStyle

I work in the fashion industry and there isn’t much of a dress code. How do I choose items that will look professional, youthful and fashionable?

Great question — we come up against that too! For those casual days, my secret weapon is my DL1961 skinny jeans — they stretch perfectly but are dark and professional. I often bring in a touch of a trend with those basics — for example, a neon silk tee. When I need to be dressier, I love to find edgy, yet professional designers. An example is Robert Rodriguez. His pieces work very well at the office, but are always forward thinking.

wide leg pants – Robert Rodriguez, jeans – DL1961, dress – Robert Rodriguez

What should I wear when meeting with various people from the fashion industry, let’s say for an interview for the company blog?

This is a great place to be more daring. If you want to go for a new trend, Asos or Zara are going to be great fits. For more classic pieces, I find that 3.1 Phillip Lim and Helmut Lang are personal faves.

How do I select clothes that I can wear several times throughout the month without it being obvious?

I think the best way to do this is to spend more money on your basics. It feels kind of boring, but honestly, you can wear a well-cut slim, black pant to death and no one will know!

black trousers – Helmut Lang, tortoise shell glasses - Ray-Ban, gold bracelet – Eddie Borgo, black pumps – Giuseppe Zanotti, pencil skirt – M Missoni, belt – Brooks Brothers

I want to look more put together while running errands. What type of items should I buy that are effortless, comfortable, and easy to move around in?

I’m very comfy on weekends; I save all my dressing up for CakeStyle! Stretchy jeans are a must have for me, I really enjoy Paige and DL1961. Ballet flats always look right and are really comfortable. I really love flats by French Sole, they are cute and comfy. Finally, a basic tee and a scarf really complete a look. I always have tees in black, white and grey and love James Perse and Vince. I also have wonderful t-shirt scarves by Saako, a company in Barcelona that we carry at CakeStyle. They are lightweight enough to work all year.

black t-shirt – Mossimo, grey t-shirt – Zoe Karssen, white t-shirt - Merona, black and white scarf - Topshop, braided scarf – Saako, striped scarf – J.Crew

What should I wear for weekend brunch followed by a few errands?

This is where my favorite 81 Poppies silk blouses and Lisse leggings come into play. You’ll feel like you’re wearing pajamas but you’ll look so styled. House of Harlow can also be a nice accessory touch — I especially love their Leather Station necklace.

How do I look current without falling into the trap of buying tons of trendy items that I won’t want to wear 6 months from now?

This is a tricky one. We’ve all bought into trends we instantly regret. First is don’t sink tons of cash into very trendy pieces. Forever21 is the perfect place to buy a crop top if you want to rock one this summer. A question to ask yourself is: would I have worn this two years ago? If you [would've found] the piece flattering and wearable back then, the likelihood of continuing to wear it is far higher.

red romper – Forever21, red jersey romper – Alice + Olivia

What clothing or accessories should I invest in to complement inexpensive trendy items from stores like Zara and H&M? 

Zara and H&M are perfect for trying out the more daring trends. Every woman needs a well-made jacket. I’m a big fan of silk blazers right now, and they often layer well with trendier tops or bottoms. They also drape beautifully.

white blazer – Acne, , black draped blazer – Helmut Lang, cream silk blazer – Shakuhachi, studded denim cutoffs – Topshop,  pink and black print shorts – Topshop, high waisted blue shorts – Topshop

A great statement necklace is also key. Here’s a tip on picking one: if it doesn’t go with anything, it goes with everything.

green and black necklace – Etro, orange box chain and tassel necklace – Lizzie Fortunato, crystal and bead necklace – Subversive

How did you come up with the idea of shopping with a personal stylist at home?

My co-founder, Millie Tadewaldt, and I both constantly talked about how frustrating it was to get dressed in the morning for our jobs. We worked at a casual-dress venture capital firm, but looking pulled together is key. We brainstormed ways to make the task easier, and CakeStyle was born.

Will your stylists consider what I already own?

Of course. We love to hear about your key and favorite pieces so we can incorporate our choices into your existing wardrobe.

Can I send you style inspiration images so you can get idea of what I like?

We love to hear as much as possible, so any pictures you wish to share are very welcome.

How does an appointment at your shop differ from the online service?

The major difference is getting to meet your stylist face-to-face. For some, that is really helpful in creating a relationship with CakeStyle. The other difference is that size changing is easier and we usually have more styles to show you. This can be a fun way to experience CakeStyle for the first time, since it allows us to hone in on your style quickly.

photo of Sophie: courtesy of BonLook, pink clutch - Miu Miu, glasses case - Rebecca Minkoff,  tortoise shell - BonLook, two toned frames - BonLook, cateye frames - BonLook

SB: How do I know what shape frame will compliment my face shape?

S: We have a great section on the website that describes this in detail: http://www.bonlook.com/page/how-order. Quickly, here are a few things to remember:

• Round face: Avoid round frames; try to go for angular frames that will bring structure
• Oval face: Almost every frame should fit you!
• Square face: Look for oval and round frames that will soften your features
• Heart face: Avoid very large frames that will emphasize your cheek bones

SB: Should I consider my hair style and color when selecting frames? Do you have any suggestions of good combinations?

S: In general, it’s best to try to follow the rule dark hair/dark frames, light hair/light frames. It will give more coherence to your whole look. But don’t hesitate to dare a dark style even if you have blond hair. It can give a lot of personality to your look.

turban - Free People, light frames - BonLook, lace headband - Free People, dark frames - BonLook

SB: What are some frames that you wish people would try more often (for men and women)?

S: A lot of men are more traditional in their choices and automatically go for rectangle frames. They should definitely try on more square eyeglasses because it can give a lot of edge to any outfit. As for women, they should really try to get their hands on some cateye frames. It’s the shape of the moment that instantly gives a feminine whimsical “je ne sais quoi”!

button front shirt – Aubin & Wills, shorts – Folk, belt – Jean Shop, loafers – Jimmy Choo, sunglasses – BonLook

SB: Can I punch up my style with glasses? 

S: Of course! Eyeglasses is the fashionable item that can best define an entire outfit. Your personality is expressed through your eyewear choice.

• Want a soft feminine look? Go for cateye
• Intellectual? Try round
• Edgy? Adopt square
• Classic? Can’t go wrong with rectangle

cat-eye frames – BonLook, embellished tank – Rebecca Taylor, two toned frames – BonLook, collared blouse – Marni, square frames – BonLook, draped blouse – Vivienne Westwood Anglomania, rectangle frames – BonLook, button front blouse -  Boy. by Band of Outsiders

SB: Tortoise shell frames are a classic. What hair and eye color look best with them?

S: One of the main reason for the tortoise shell’s popularity is that it actually works with all skin tones and hair/eye color. I would say it’s an even easier color than black, which can look severe on some people. Tortoise shell gives a more sophisticated and soft look.

tortoise shell frames – BonLook

SB: I love color frames but I’m afraid they won’t match my clothes. What color frames should I buy?

S: Lately we have been seeing a lot of color blocking so don’t be afraid to wear this trend with your eyeglasses! Mix and match your outfits with your favorite colorful frames. As a rule of thumb, tortoise shell, brown, black and clear go with everything.

SB: What frames are best for the following clothing styles? 

S: Preppy: square and bold

lace earrings – Juliet & Company, yellow maxi dress – French Connection, bag – Missoni, heels – Kate Spade, tortoise shell frames – BonLook

Feminine: narrow delicate styles, any shape

heels – Dior, dress – Dot Gleam, bag – Miu Miu, delicate frames – BonLook

Minimalist: rectangle with simple lines

sheer tank – Madewell, draped skirt – Zero + Maria Cornejo, heels – L.A.M.B., rectangle frames – BonLook

French-chic: cateye

button front – Chloé, leather shorts – Drome, heels – 3.1 Phillip Lim, bag – 3.1 Phillip Lim, cat-eye frames – BonLook

Artsy: round

dress – Mary Katrantzou, booties – B Brian Atwood, round frames – BonLook

SB: Should I follow the same styling tips for eyeglasses and sunglasses?

S: As for shapes, definitely. But in terms of sizes, you can go for bigger frames that wouldn’t necessarily fit you as eyeglasses. The fact that the lenses are tinted “forgives” a lot so don’t hesitate to be funkier in your choice. Sunglasses have an important purpose but most of all they need to be fun!

Click here for more information on BonLook 

Further Reading

I spotted this awesome tutorial by Keiko Lynn on makeup for girls who wear glasses! 

photo courtesy of KeikoLynn.com, fuchsia lipstick – YSL, blush – Too Faced