chicTip: Pest Proofing your Clothes
WHAT'S BUGGING YOU
If you see moths flying in your house, they probably aren't clothes moths, but pantry pests -- the type that infests flour and grains. Clothes moths don't like light and are so secretive that you'll probably never see them. What's more, the adult moths won't do any harm. Damage to woolens is actually done by the larvae of two types of insects: clothes moths and carpet beetles (the latter being more prevalent than moths in most areas of the country). Both insects lay eggs in secluded spots with plenty of food -- wool, fur, down, shed pet dander, and other animal-based materials. Larvae emerge within a few weeks; beetle larvae can feed on fabric for a year or more and moth larvae may cause damage for a couple months.
CLEANING UP
Moth and beetle larvae shun bright light, so they rarely attack frequently worn clothing or heavily trafficked carpets. They thrive in clothing that is packed away and carpet hidden under furniture, especially if there are food spills or other attractive scents. The best strategy? Keep things clean.
VACUUMING
Weekly use of the vacuum and general good housekeeping go a long way toward keeping pests at bay. If you clean often, you may remove them without even knowing it. Vacuuming also removes moth eggs and larvae from carpets before they have the opportunity to hatch.
LAUNDRY
Before you pack up winter clothing for storage, wash or dry-clean garments that have been worn. This rids them of moth and beetle eggs and also eliminates perspiration remnants and food spills, which attract and nourish pests. Moths and beetles don't eat items made of synthetic or cotton fabrics, but you should clean those, too, if you store them with woolens.
BRUSHING
If you have winter coats you haven't worn, you probably won't want to pay for dry cleaning just to guard against eggs that might have been deposited on them. Yet if you store them as is, you risk an infestation. In this case, try an old-fashioned but effective regimen: Take the items outside on a sunny day and brush them vigorously, especially under collars and along seams. This should remove eggs and larvae, which are so small, you probably won't be able to see them. In case you miss a few of the pests or their eggs, pack this clothing separately from laundered or dry-cleaned items.
SMART STORAGE
Moths and beetles can get through extremely tight spaces. When storing woolens, reclosable plastic bags or plastic boxes are best for keeping pests out. To protect the items from condensation, wrap them in lengths of clean cotton, and store. Take care in using plastic containers for long-term storage -- years rather than months -- as they do not allow the items to breathe, and some plastics may degrade fabric over time. If storing valuable items, consult with a professional textile conservator for recommendations (like those who preserve wedding dresses).
CHOOSING A METHOD
There are numerous products -- some natural, some chemical-based, and with varying levels of effectiveness -- that are intended to deter moths and beetles. It's best to know a product's pros and cons before you make a choice. In the right circumstances, any of these approaches can be useful. Just remember that nothing discourages clothes moths and carpet beetles more than keeping your woolen items clean and storing them correctly.
CEDAR
The dark-colored heartwood of red cedar contains natural oils that kill clothes-moth larvae, but this alone won't protect clothing. It's not effective against carpet beetles, and, with moths, it kills only young larvae, not older ones or eggs. The effect also fades as the scent does. You can replenish the scent of boards, closets, and chests by sanding the wood lightly or dabbing on cedar oil, but there is no way to know if you've added enough. If you have a cedar chest, it's best to think of it as a reasonably airtight storage container -- and only keep clean fabric inside it. Again, wrap items in clean cotton before storing them.
MOTHBALLS AND MOTH CRYSTALS
These can thwart infestations but come with many drawbacks, so you're probably better off without them. Both products contain pesticides that can be harmful to people, unborn babies, and pets. Since mothballs and moth crystals work by releasing fumigant gas, they must be used in tight-fitting containers, rather than in closets or drawers, to be effective. If you do use these products, keep containers out of your living area -- in a garage, perhaps. And air out clothing thoroughly outside before wearing it or hanging it in your closet again (dry cleaning won't eliminate the mothball odor).
LAVENDER
Using this plant to repel clothes moths is an old homemaker's trick. Sachets filled with lavender (and/or laced with its oil) and suspended in your closet or tucked in your drawers are said to protect woolens. They will also leave a pleasant scent behind. Lavender will not, however, kill moth eggs or larvae, so be sure the space is free of them first.
SOLVING AN EXISTING PROBLEM
What if you already have clothes or carpet pests? Here are some tips for identifying the bugs you are dealing with, getting rid of them, and then salvaging your woolen items.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
You won't likely see clothes moths, but if you find holes, you know you have a problem. With moth larvae, you may find silky webbing or cigarlike cocoons. Beetle larvae leave dried skins -- like tiny rice grains.
TREATING CLOTHES
Remove and treat all infested material. You might throw away the most damaged clothing. Dry-clean or launder items you keep; freezing also eradicates pests: Put items in sealed plastic bags, squeeze out air, and freeze for a few days. Take the bags out, let them return to room temperature, and then repeat. In case of condensation, let clothes air out before storing again.
CLEANING CARPETS
For a severe infestation, call a professional. To treat a minor problem, buy a spray made for these pests and spot test to make sure it doesn't affect the carpet color. Apply, following label instructions, anywhere you find traces of larvae or don't often clean -- such as behind bookcases and along baseboards. Treat both sides of the carpet (if not fastened down) and the rug pad.
CATCHING THEM ALL
Clean your house thoroughly before replacing treated items. If furniture is infested, you might need to call an exterminator.
USING TRAPS
Try pheromone-laced cardboard traps to check if moths remain. (These shouldn't be your main defense, however, and won't trap beetles.)
MENDING
You may be able to repair blankets or other large-thread items yourself, using matching yarn. Finely woven items and heirlooms should be taken to a company that specializes in reweaving. This can be rather expensive, so be sure to weigh the cost before doing so - you may be better off just replacing certain knits.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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 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/
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!
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: 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
□ 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
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.
• 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.
• 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?
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| Celine |
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
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.
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