ChicTip: My Guide to Savvy Shopping

As a fashion consultant, I spend an inordinate amount of time browsing clothes online. Accordingly, over the years I've amassed several insider tips for shopping smarter. I figure that a couple of days before biggest shopping day of the year is a perfect time to share my tips on everything from how to score a promo code to knowing the exact time a sale goes live.

When are the best sales? It's not when you think.

Ask any shopping enthusiast the best day of the year to shop, and she’ll probably answer Black Friday. While there are definitely deals to be had, according to the Wall Street Journal, there are other times of year when prices are lower. The two months when you’ll snag the best deals? Early January and late June. And of course, with the influx of flash sale sites like Gilt, RueLaLa and Hautelook, there are amazing sales to be had every 24 hours. So stay out of the fray and home with your family enjoying leftovers on the day after Thanksgiving!

Know when your wanted items go on sale.

Sign up at sites like Hukkster to get notifications when her favorite items go on sale. Whether you do most of your online shopping on a computer or mobile device, you can get an email or push notification the second your favorite items are reduced.

Find out when stores get new shipments.

Buddy up to the local store manager of your favorite shopping haunts and find out which day of the week they get in new merchandise. Often when new clothing comes in, older clothing will be moved toward the back of the store and put on sale. 

eBay Save Search
Is the item of your dreams sold out everywhere? No worries: there's second hope for slackers on eBay. Simply search the brand and style name of the desired garment on eBay. When the search results come up, narrow down by size and the maximum amount you are willing to spend, then click on the link at the top that says “save search.” It will give you the option to receive an email when new items matching your search terms are listed. I actually use this tool to shop - each morning I receive an email with offerings in my size from my favorite designers.

Use coupon codes: Refuse to pay retail!
Often sites will advertise their coupon codes, but occasionally a discount code will fly under the radar, in which case RetailMeNot.com is a godsend. With coupons for over 50,000 sites, I never make a purchase without checking the site first. 

Amex Sync
American Express’ Amex Sync program allows cardholders to link their plastic to Facebook, Foursquare, or Twitter to get deals in exchange for sharing a post, checking in, or Tweeting. For example, recently cardholders could tweet #amexwarby to score $10 back on a pair of Warby Parker frames. The no-hassle approach doesn’t require any coupon codes; simply pay with your Amex card and your statement will automatically be credited. 

Shop Off-Season
This may seem like a no-brainer, but consciously planning ahead to shop for fall items in the spring and vice versa can save you a bundle. Sure, buying a bathing suit in September isn’t as fun, but when you aren’t paying full price for that bikini at the peak of next swim season, you’ll be smiling.

Sign Up For The Store's Newsletter
Increasingly, e-commerce sites are drawing in new newsletter subscribers with the lure of a promotion code. In addition to the easy discount off your first purchase, signing up can be worth the extra email in your inbox when you get advance notice of promotions or access to secret sales.

ShopStyle
In addition to checking RetailMeNot.com, search the item on ShopStyle.com to confirm that your intended online store of choice is actually selling it for the lowest price. Often smaller boutiques you may be unaware of are selling the same item for less!

Lucky Breaks
The ladies behind Lucky are women after our own shopping-happy hearts. They have an entire Lucky Breaks section dedicated to delivering sweet deals—usually 50% off editor-curated items, ranging from darling earrings to printed pencil skirts.

The ORIGINAL Fashion Camp with Tracy James
Holiday Edition
"Because confidence never goes out of style."
Colonial Brookwood Village • 9:30am-2:00pm 
Dec 21, 22, 23 • Agenda A, attached here:
http://tinyurl.com/CampAgendaA
Dec 27, 28, 30, 31 • Agenda B, attached here:
http://tinyurl.com/CampAgendaB

Each day: Ages 5-12 welcome • $60/child (lunch, graduation certificate & $10 gift card included)
To Register:

1) To reserve your child’s spot(s), email your child’s name and the date(s) of camp for which you are registering to Tracy James at tracy@chicmadesimple.com, subject line: Holiday Fashion Camp

2) Mail your Registration Form (attached here:  http://tinyurl.com/HolidayCampRegForm-13), along with payment to:
Tracy James
Holiday Fashion Camp
P.O. Box 430035
Birmingham, AL 35243

As Seen In...

Very flattered to be featured as a FACES of Birmingham by StyleBlueprint Birmingham!

Meet today’s FACE of Birmingham, wardrobe consultant and stylist Tracy James of ChicMadeSimple. Tracy has been revamping closets and providing personal shopping services for Birmingham’s women, men, teens and tweens since 2000. She also started the original fashion camp and continues the program today helping young girls develop self-esteem and confidence, while also learning about fashion. 

Tell us about your business, Chic Made Simple, and how you got into the fashion styling business.

I've been working as a freelance Fashion Consultant and Wardrobe Stylist with my business ChicMadeSimple for 13 years, but I've been a fashion fanatic for as long as I can remember. At age 3, in a Montessori end-of-the-school-year assignment, I was to draw a picture of what I was most excited about for the summer, then provide the teacher a caption to write below my drawing. Other toddlers anticipated trips to the beach, a vacation to Disneyworld, time with Grandma... My big event? "This summer I am going to wear a shirt without sleeves." As an only child, I was fortunate enough to get a yearly back-to-school Atlanta shopping trip with my mom. Upon returning home, I "merchandised" our purchases around my room, then would bring my parents' dinner guests up for tours of my collection: "And I can wear this with this...and also with this..." (Looking back, many of my future issues probably could've been avoided had my parents not allowed this! Ha!) One more example: in junior high biology class, our teacher with a rather sick sense of humor offered bonus points to "make something" out of the rat pelt leftover from our lab dissection. Gross, yes, but I didn't miss a chance for bonus points. Boys made knife sheaths and pocket protectors. I dyed mine fuchsia (still my favorite color) and made a hair barrette that was the envy of my classmates. 

While you would certainly think a fuchsia rat pelt would rocket me to styling stardom, alas, it took several detours and dabbles in other career interests (an internship with CNN, a year of law school at the University of Alabama, 2 years on Capitol Hill in DC) before I landed in fashion. Although I was always the go-to girl in college at Auburn when friends had style questions, I never considered turning my perceived expertise into a career. But after my dad died in December of '97, I was ready for a fresh start. I had some friends at the Parisian corporate office, so I began by assisting with their runway shows and other events. Eventually they trusted me enough with events of my own, so I traveled to different out of town stores producing shows and seminars. I miss those days, and I miss Parisian! Thanks to my work with them, I would fully realize my passion, and in the year 2000, ChicMadeSimple was officially born. The name of my business refers to the fact that I truly desire time with me to be an educational experience for my clients, so that individuals not only discover their personal style, but also realize that this isn't rocket science...with a few tips and tricks, being chic can be simple.      

As a wardrobe consultant what kind of services do you offer and what kind of clients do you serve?

When you own your own business, you get to work on whatever projects you choose, so my experience and expertise runs the gamut: from fashion events like runway shows and corporate wardrobe seminars, to photo styling for advertisements, editorial and personal use (headshots, family Christmas cards, etc.), to fashion writing for publications like B-Metro and The Birmingham News, to services for individual clients, like personal shopping and "What Not to Wear" style closet revamps. Contrary to popular belief, the majority of my clients are not wealthy and/or celebrities. In fact, I operate with the strong opinion that stylists should be accessible to the general public; I serve men, women, teens, tweens and kids alike. So many struggle with deciphering their personal style, finding items that fit and flatter body type, and doing all within a reasonable budget. I adore a challenge, so give me a plus-size woman with only $250 to spend for her 25th high school reunion weekend, and I'll rise to the occasion to help her feel her most beautiful. I have a fun, easy going approach - often infused with my sense of humor - that allows my clients feel at ease. Allowing someone into your closet can be an intimate thing, revealing all sorts of insecurities, and I am mindful to always be sensitive to that.

You started Fashion Camp for young girls in the area 6 years ago. Tell us about that.

6 years ago, The Summit approached me with a desire to do something for kids during the summer. I wanted to make sure that the girls weren't just "sold to" - they get enough of that everyday in the media. Instead, the stores became classrooms for lessons. My goal was to create a fun, activity filled day in which young girls could learn about - first and foremost - the importance of individuality, healthy self-expression, positive self-image, and grace... along with practical lessons on coordinating, wardrobing, accessorizing, deciphering and communicating likes/dislikes, and manners....just to name a few!  I am extremely passionate about relaying to young girls the message that style doesn't come in a particular size, shape, or price point, but rather that their uniqueness is what makes them the most stylish. After conducting the camp for 4 years at The Summit and 1 year at The Shops of Grand River, this year I spread the love to Colonial Brookwood Village for a late-summer, Back to School edition of Fashion Camp. A day camp with 2 different agendas from which to choose, girls may attend one or both days. Spending time with these young ladies is one of the most rewarding tasks I do all year. 

What is your “must-have” purchase for fall 2013?

Much to my dismay, I told myself last fall that this year I would finally replace my all-time-fave, go-with-everything metallic Donald Pliner Couture boots. When I discovered them (maybe 7 years ago?), I liked them so much I bought them in both color offering (pewter and bronze), something I rarely do. With a pointed toe, stiletto heel, sleek vamp, and fitted shaft that doesn't bunch - they are perfect. The boots are still super stylish, but are looking a little worse for the wear. For the past couple of seasons, I have been touching up scuffed toes with a custom mix of paint from the craft store! Sigh. During an interview with Mr. Pliner himself a few years ago, I put in my request for a repeat of his masterpiece design, but so far he has only produced similar versions with heels too low for this chick. So let the search begin...

Which celebrity's closet would you most like to have?

Victoria Beckham. Her wardrobe choices are feminine, but with an edgy vibe or fashion forward element. And she shares my penchant for flirty dresses and sky high heels.

What fashion item would you never be caught dead wearing?

I am not a fan of the high top, platform, and often bedazzled, sneakers that have been trending. I fortunately dodged that trend in the 80's, so I'm going to "just say no" to the revamped 2013 version as well.

What's the best piece of advice you've ever been given?

I'm going to cite three, not only because they all came from the same friend, but also because I've applied them to my life recently.  

1) "Bet on yourself." Some great things have happened when I've stopped second guessing myself and taken a risk.

2) "The success you achieve depends on the decisions you make and the company you keep." Every action matters, and being surrounded by positive people who applaud good life choices is invaluable.

3) "Just be." Too often I over think, over analyze, and agonize, when in reality I need to step back, relax and just "be." 

*On a lighter note, my favorite styling advice is without a doubt courtesy of the indelible Tim Gunn (with whom I've had the pleasure of working), "Make it work!"

What advice would you give to others?

In a word, forgive. As the saying goes, "Resentment is like swallowing poison and waiting for the other person to die." I've witnessed grudges turn individuals bitter, and I've personally felt anger and hurt so terrible I thought it would eat me alive, which is exactly what it will do if you don't let go. Choosing to forgive is valuing peace over vengeance and sometimes, fairness. But in my experience it has been the right choice every time. Resentment is a luxury not worth the price. 

What is your favorite thing to do to relax?

In town, a yoga class. Out of town, a solo walk on the beach.

Favorite thing to do on a Saturday night?

An intimate dinner party with friends, filled with debate, story telling and laughter. And I don't miss a Black Jacket Symphony show at Workplay.

Favorite local restaurant?

Urban Cookhouse for lunch and Chez FonFon for dinner

What are you listening to these days?

I'm pretty addicted to Pandora, constantly thumbs-upping and downing songs to customize my selections, which are wildly eccentric, from The Civil Wars and Mumford & Sons to the trip hop I often select for fashion events, like Massive Attack, Zero 7, Rob Dougan and Morcheeba. I also enjoy Birmingham Mountain Radio, especially now that it has made it to FM. BMR's Scott Register is to be applauded for progressing Birmingham's music scene.

What books are you currently reading?

I've been in the same book club with girlfriends for over 10 years. We take a break in the summer, during which time I love to read the articles in Vanity Fair, Esquire and Town & Country. Our last book selection was The Light Between the Oceans by M.L. Stedman, which we will discuss when we reconvene in the fall.

Do you have any personality quirks or irrational fears?

Oh my! We al have our share, don't we? I'll mention one that is more of a tick: when I'm nervous or bored, I have the habit of clicking my earring back to soothe myself. It has to be just the right kind of back, because it has to make just the right kind of clicking sound to be satisfying. Now before you start suggesting medication, let me attest that there IS an explanation for this tick, and of course, it's all my parent's fault. When I would cry as a baby, to get me to stop, my mom would click her nails together in my ear and say, "Listen, do you hear the bug?" Worked everytime. I can't say it's that powerful anymore, in fact it's a bit annoying and has messed up some pretty snazzy earrings, but it's a Tracy quirk nonetheless! 

If your house was on fire what's the one thing you would grab?

Honestly, I'm not a sentimentalist, so I would just be thankful to get myself out of harm's way. In addition, throughout my life, and especially in the past couple of years, I've realized that the most important things in life are not ones that can be grabbed in a few seconds. And when you have experienced losing those true valuables (a parent, a marriage, a stepchild, a dog), anything else just seems superficial.

Name three things you can't live without (excluding friends, family and God!)... 

My dog, big salads, and good sheets.

To read this article on StyleBlueprint Birmingham, visit this awesome lifestyle blog here!

Register NOW for The ORIGINAL Fashion Camp!! "Because confidence never goes out of style."

The ORIGINAL Fashion Camp 

with Fashion Stylist Tracy James

"Because confidence never goes out of style." 

2013 Back to School Edition

Where: Colonial Brookwood Village
When: July 29-Aug 1 & Aug 5-8
Time: 9:30am-2:00pm each day
Cost: $60 per child, per day (lunch included + $10 gift card)
Ages: 5-12 

When I started Fashion Camp 6 years ago, my goal was to create a fun, activity filled day in which young girls could learn about - first and foremost - the importance of individuality, healthy self-expression, positive self-image, and grace... along with practical lessons on coordinating, wardrobing, accessorizing, deciphering and communicating likes/dislikes, and manners....just to name a few! I am extremely passionate about relaying to young girls the message that style doesn't come in a particular size or shape, or at any specific price point, but rather that their uniqueness is what makes them the most beautiful.  After 4 years at The Summit and 1 year at The Shops of Grand River, I am spreading the love to Colonial Brookwood Village this year for a late-summer, Back to School edition of Fashion Camp. I hope your budding fashionista will join me!

Fashion Camp is intended as a day camp, with 2 different agendas from which to choose. Girls may attend just one day or both agendas.

Class breakdown is as follows. Specific activity agendas and registration form attached via links at end of post. 

□ Ages 5-7 ▪ Agenda “A” ▪ Monday, July 29
□ Ages 5-7 ▪ Agenda “A” ▪ Tuesday, August 6
□ Ages 5-7 ▪ Agenda “B” ▪ Tuesday, July 30
□ Ages 8-9 ▪ Agenda “A” ▪ Wednesday, July 31 SOLD OUT
□ Ages 8-9 ▪ Agenda “A” ▪ Wednesday, August 7
□ Ages 8-9 ▪ Agenda “B” ▪ Thursday, August 1
□ Ages 8-9 ▪ Agenda “B” ▪ Thursday, August 8
□ Ages 10-12 ▪ Agenda “A” ▪ Friday, August 2 SOLD OUT
□ Ages 10-12 ▪ Agenda “A” ▪ Friday, August 9 SOLD OUT 
□ Ages 10-12 ▪ Agenda “B”▪ Monday, August 5 SOLD OUT

Registration Form

Ages 5-7 Agenda A
Ages 5-7 Agenda B
Ages 8-9 Agenda A

Ages 8-9 Agenda B
Ages 10-12 Agenda A
Ages 10-12 Agenda B

The ORIGINAL Fashion Camp with Tracy James 2013 will be a special Back to School Edition! 
Where: Brookwood Mall
When: July 29-Aug 2 & Aug 5-9
Time: 9:30AM-2PM each day
Cost: $60 per child, per day
Ages: 5-12 
Specific agendas & registration information to be posted soon!

Colored Denim for Fall?

Q: I know colored denim was "in" for spring and summer, but now I see it in the stores this fall. Is this a trend anyone can wear?

With the rise of colored denim in 2011, it's carryover to Spring 2012 and now Fall 2012, it looks like the trend is here to get comfortable and stay for awhile. But with this trend redux, we're seeing a few additions to the mix. Joining the earth tone and brightly hued offerings are jewel tones, like ruby, sapphire and emerald. Even more exciting is the printed denim, including photo printing and painterly designs, as well as metallics and coated or "waxed" denim.  Avoid the truly neon shades right now; they were for spring/summer wear and, more important, are not appropriate for every age or shape. That said, don't let colored denim throw you - there's no need to match your top. For example, a grey and black striped sweater coordinates fabulously with jeans of any color - oxblood, cobalt, emerald, etc. Pick a favorite, season appropriate (thus a bit more saturated) color and go with it! 

Printed denim may seem fashion adventurous, but patterns range from subtle to bold. Be willing to step outside your comfort zone to try on a pair, but do be careful you don't choose a print that emphasizes a less-than-favorite body part. Coordinate with simple tops in solid shades or, for you advanced fashionistas, in another pattern. Rule of thumb for mixing patterns: mix big print with small print (and not big with big, small with small) and have at least one common color to connect the 2 garments. 

Coated denim ranges from light finishes for subtle shine to medium glaze for a leather-like look to heavy coating for a waxed appearance. I particularly like the metallic coatings. These high-tech treatments impart a dramatic effect, but because they include the stretch and lightweight qualities of denim, can be worn with comfort and ease. Keep in mind that this type of denim looks best in form fitting styles. However, I would argue that all jeans look best when form fitted - no matter if skinny or bootcut. There's nothing stylish or flattering about saggy, baggy britches. In that vein, denim manufacturers are playing with the lycra content of their jeans to offer even more shape retention, hopefully eliminating the need to wash and dry after each wear.

Jacket for early Fall?

Q: What kind of jacket is good for fall, something that won't be too heavy but that I can wear to work?

A: I am a big fan of the trench coat, a wardrobe staple in my opinion, especially here in the south, where it doesn't get super cold for very long. Contrary to what some believe, the trench is not just a raincoat. Created in the 1900's by Thomas Burberry, the most traditional fabrication is cotton gabardine (which Burberry himself invented), but today other materials are used, including wool and leather. However for our Alabama climate, a cotton variety will get the most wear. Below are some tips for selecting the right trench.

Burberry, $650

• A khaki trench always works, be it in a darker tan or a lighter shade like cement. Black is also a great option, and can carry into night time. Fun colors and finishes abound, but keep in mind those say fashion more than they do business.
• Your trench should hit anywhere between two and six inches above the knee. And it should feel snug, with slim, clean lines.

• The collar is designed to be flipped up (it keeps your neck dry, and it looks better that way). Pop the back, but let the sides hang loose for an easier look.
• It is considered more fashionable to knot the belt rather than actually loop it through the D-ring. If your trench fits as well as it should, you don’t have to cinch the belt around your waist at all if you so choose. Let it hang or loosely tie it behind your back.

• As with most wardrobe staples, quality is important. My clients who own iconic Burberry trench coats have had them 20+ years.

Ask Tracy: Be Don Draper?

Q: My brother and I have an ongoing debate I'm hoping you can clear up. When is it appropriate/ not appropriate for a man to wear a hat?
A: Not only do I conduct a lot of business dress code seminars, but from time to time I am asked to teach etiquette classes. So this is a question that frequently arises, especially with the recent popularity of the TV show Mad Men, depicting an era during which hats trended toward dapper styles, and baseball caps were reserved for actual baseball players. 

     In the 1930s through most of the '50s, a man wasn't considered fully dressed without a hat. But by the 1960s, hat wearing fell out of favor, partly as a result of longer hairstyles, cars with lower roofs, and resistance from some World War II vets weary from wearing helmets for so long. JFK's habit of not donning a hat was seen as the final blow to the trend.

     In large part to Mad Men, hats are experiencing a revival, but unfortunately the rules surrounding hat wearing (and removal) have not followed suit. Generally one shows respect to others by uncovering indoors, but "indoors" can be a subjective term. All homes, churches (unless required by the religion) and restaurants should be hat-free. Public spaces, like train stations, airports, hallways and elevators, are considered hats-optional, as are sports arenas. However, old school gentlemen (a lost breed) will still remove their hat when a lady enters an elevator.

     Ladies are mostly exempt from hat etiquette, with the exception of baseball caps. It has always been accepted that if a hat is considered part of a woman's outfit, it may be kept on. In the spirit of equality, this allowance is now being extended to men as well, to the pleasure of vendors such as J.Crew and Gap, who have included fedoras and pageboy caps in recent collections.

     But to all, wearing a baseball cap backwards is never appropriate!

Ask Tracy: Bargain hunting

Q: What should I look for in end-of-the-season sales the stores are having right now?

A: Let's start with what NOT to look for at these sales. Avoid anything overly trendy - there's a good chance these items will be on the "out" list by the time  next spring/summer rolls around. Skip damaged pieces as well - while the price can be tempting, what you will spend to have the torn hem repaired or replace the missing belt can end up making it not such a great deal, or, more likely, you won't go to the trouble and the item will sit in your closet. 

When shopping sales, focus on quality over quantity. It's a great time to get a high end basics (like quality tees) and wardrobe staples (a light trench coat, perhaps). Luxury retailers Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, and Gus Mayer offer deep discounts at the end of season, and the "Rack of Remorse" at Homewood men's store Shaia's is near famous. Because of our long hot season in the south, men would do well to pick up spring/summer weight suiting and unlined items.

Be familiar with the existing contents of your closet so you can enter the store armed with a list of needs, thus avoiding superfluous purchases. Never buy an item without having an idea of what you will pair it with in your current wardrobe.

Don't expect to leave a sale with an armload - finding those few special items is much more rewarding. Happy hunting!

Ask Tracy: Leather in summer?

Celine

Q: I've seen leather in the stores this summer - is it really appropriate to wear leather in warm weather in the south?

A:    Just as there is summer-weight wool, there is also summer-weight leather. Lighter and thinner than its fall/winter counterpart, this season's leather is unlined and often more loosely constructed. Because genuine animal skins do not breathe (nor do the synthetic versions, for that matter), these qualities are what make it wearable in warmer temperatures.
     Favorite items I've seen this summer include: a hip cognac 3/4 sleeve unlined bolero jacket, a dainty white laser cut A-line skirt, and a fitted black knit sheath dress with a visually slimming ivory leather center panel.
     Keep it simple: too much embellishment complicates what should be a clean silhouette, and the "biker look" is not in keeping with the trend.

FASHION CAMP IS MOVING TO The Shops of Grand River!
And they are going "all out" to make this new venue on the 5th anniversary of Fashion Camp an extra special one! For girls ages 6-15, this is THE summer day camp that has sold out (with waiting lists) each year, teaching girls about all-things-stylish (including etiquette). Click for detailed info, including class agendas, dates & registration form: Fashion Camp with Tracy James Robinson

Ask Tracy: Dressing for Success

Q: I am female professional working in a conservative banking environment. I have trouble being creative with my wardrobe and end up wearing pantsuits everyday, usually in navy, grey, black, brown or taupe, with a solid shell underneath. What else can I wear but still maintain a professional image?

A: No offense, but your work wardrobe sounds rather, well, "snore." This is 2012! We are no longer in the days of "to compete with a man you must dress like a man." No need to hide your femininity or shy away from color, print and pattern. One of the first things I do when reorganizing a client's closet is I separate the suits: jackets in one section, pants in another, to encourage mixing and matching. Changes in one's style can be difficult, so weening into a new look is often best. Since you seem to be comfortable with the jacket and pant formula, start there. You have all of the neutral basics, so now look for what I call novelty jackets - jackets that are just a single piece and offer some sort of interest, whether it be via a print, texture, shape or detail. Stay traditional by pairing a Chanel- style black and white tweed jacket with your black suit pants. Try bold color by pairing a coral or color-of-the-moment orange jacket with your grey pants. 

You can also mix and match in reverse: wear your taupe jacket with ivory herringbone weave pants or your brown with glen plaid pants, all you need is a hint of brown in the pattern to tie the two together. Then you can start thinking about wearing your jackets over sleek sheath dresses (preferably patterned sheaths, but start with solids if need be). And finally, especially in the dead of summer, consider dropping the jacket idea all together from time to time, and when it is 98 degrees outside, choose a clean-lined dress. There are plenty of professional looking dress options, like those from Kay Unger, David Meister, Elie Tahari, Banana Republic and Ann Taylor. In all cases, never underestimate the importance of great shoes and accessories! Even with the most conservative clothing, both should be current (not necessarily trendy, just not dated) and in good condition. As designer Kate Spade said, "Accessories are what make an outfit a little bit more you," thus differentiating you from all of the other suits out there.    

Trend Watch: Hi-Low Hem

Love it or hate it...the hi-low hem (also called "dipped hem") can been seen in day dresses, evening gowns, tops and skirts this Spring/Summer. Because proportion is important, this is not an off-the-rack trend for everyone.

Ask Tracy: Necklines

Q: I have broad shoulders, how do I know which neckline is right for my shape?

A: Broad shoulders are often considered an asset, as they can balance the proportion of a larger lower half. (Alas, majority rules that for women the "ideal" shape continues to be the hourglass.) However, if you think your shoulders need to be minimized, a v-neck is the most universally flattering neckline. If you have a small bust, choose a wider vee; those with a larger bust should opt for a narrower vee. Avoid boatnecks, as well as cap and pouf sleeves, which will make your shoulders appear even wider (and are thus good for those with narrow shoulders).

Closet Bootcamp

Pollen season got you sneezing? Then there’s no better time to stay indoors and conduct your own closet bootcamp, a makeover for your wardrobe! 
If this is your first time to spring clean the closet in many a season, the task can be daunting, which causes many to continuously put it off. Make cleaning out the clutter a priority and give yourself a realistic timeframe in which to complete the job. Consider hiring a professional wardrobe consultant, as often it takes an objective outsider to give you that needed push to let go of certain items. When I am assisting a client in purging a wardrobe, we inventory each garment - deciding what to donate or consign (don't add to a landfill by just trashing garments, even those in poor condition), and separating items that need repair or could be revived with alterations. For those unworn but still hard to let go of garments, we analyze the reasons behind the resistance, sometimes resulting in a mini therapy session but ultimately freeing for the client. Common excuses include: "That might come back in style." To which I say, yes, but you will want the 2012 interpretation (with the excpetion of items with special vintage appeal). Or, "I'm dieting and hope to fit into that again." I'm all for goals, but often these items serve as reminders of what you might view as a failure, thus undermining confidence. How long has it been since you could fit into the item in question? If more than 3 years, perhaps it is time to embrace your current shape.
Should you chose not to hire a professional, perhaps you could enlist a friend to assist and keep you motivated, promising to return the favor in his or her closet.   
Once properly purged, here are some tips to give your closet a new and improved image:
- Use all the same hangers to give your closet a uniform appearance.  The right hanger will also help clothing keep its shape. I like slimline felt or velvet covered hangers or the plastic store hangers; both keep even sleeveless garments from slipping off the hanger. Like Mommy Dearest, I detest wire hangers because they leave divots in shoulders and, in this humid climate, can rust. Tubular hangers take up too much space and the tops don’t swivel.
- Hang clothing in the same direction: facing the left if you are right handed, facing the right if you are left handed.
- Group clothing by type: tops, jackets, skirts pants, dresses, etc., all in their own category.
- Within each category, sort by color. While there is no correct template, I use the order white, brown, red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, grey, black. For mutli-colored items, use your best judgement as to the primary hue.
- Within each color, sort by sleeve length: sleeveless, short sleeve, 3/4 sleeve, long sleeve.
- Especially if you have a small closet, let no space remain unused. Empty floor space can be used for multi-level shoe racks, and walls can be used to install shelves for folded knits or hooks for handbadgs, hats, scarves, etc. In my closet I installed two long tie racks, one I use for nightgowns, and another I use for camisoles. 
- Neatly fold delicate knits on shelves, perhaps in clear bins to separate t-shirts, finer knits, sweater sets, etc. And make sure item is clean before you put it up - what moths seek is bits of food and perspiration left on clothing.
- Make sure your closet is adequately lit. Good lighting allows you to interpret colors and identify fabrics.
The method behind what non Type-A folks may see as madness, is that the ability to see a true picture of what is actually in your wardrobe will make dressing easier and help you avoid impulse and duplicate purchases. Additionally, an organized closet allows for an expanded wardrobe. Often people find themselves so overwhemled by voluminous closet contents, it's as if they can't see the forest for the trees, the old "I have a closet full of clotes and nothing to wear." And so they resort to wearing the same 4-5 outfits repeatedly. By separating these "safe" combinations, and clearly displaying in front of you the contents of your closet, you are encouraged to be more creative in your mixing and matching. 
After your closet makeover, don't let it revert to an ugly ducking! Purge at the beginning of each season, with a good rule of thumb being to part with items you have not worn in the past two years. In between seasons, I recommend keeping a bin (mine is located in my laundry room) in which you throw in give away items as you come across them. Know the location of a favorite charity's donation bin, and periodically make a deposit. (I use the Hannah Home bin at Whole Foods.)  
One of my favorite quotes by fashion guru Tim Gunn is, "What is a closet, really, but a catalogue of the different personas we have auditioned and discarded? Hanging there in our closets are reminders, both good and bad, of who we are, who we’ve been, and who we’ve hoped to be." While true, I suggest only keeping evidence of your current persona in your closet! Style isn't rocket science, after all, and with all of the other responsibilities in your life, you owe it to your self to simplify the process of getting dressed.