Probably one of my favorite styled sandals -  because they add a bit of elegance to any casual outfit – is the t-strap.  With summer well under way in the Northern Hemisphere, here are some great options to add to your wardrobe.  These are easily my “go-to” sandal for any summer outfit and there’s a sandal for every budget.

From left to right:

• Sam Edelman – Gigi. In 8 colors, sizes 6-12, $50
• Steve Madden – Serrious. In 8 colors, sizes 5.5-10, $60
• Frye – Mary Harness Thong.  In 3 colors, sizes 5.5-9.5. $120
• Elizabeth and James – Blair.   In 5 colors, sizes 5.5-11, $220
• Juicy Couture – Cornelia. In 2 colors, sizes 6-10, $225
• Giuseppe Zanotti – E00223.  In Sienna (shown), sizes 6-10, $365

+++++

Are you ready for a personal makeover? Looking to become a personal stylist? Visit Wardrobe 911’s Style Institute to learn more.

Donald Pliner’s Viana11 — This is an all-time favorite because it works with fancy dresses and jeans alike.  The 2″ heel provides enough height to give you a nice lift but it’s comfortable enough to walk and stand in.  Better yet, it comes in 9 colors such as this multi-snake print and it comes in both Narrow and Medium widths.  Sizes 5 to 11,  $250.

Matt Bernson’s Bo Peep Wedge — Don’t let the 4.25″ height fool you!  The platform is 1.25″ so what you feel is a 3″  heel.  The leather is super soft and it comes in 3 colors including this sophisticated gray.  Sizes 5 to 11, $197.

Taryn’s Quaint Jelly Sandal — It may not look like “all that” but it really is quite fab.  Taryn Rose has upped the comfort on the jelly by providing a leather footbed that is Poron padded.  It’s a simple “slide and go” shoe that looks good and is good for your feet.  It comes in 5 colors such as this grass green.  Sizes 5 to 12, $76.

Green is the color of hope, life, rejuvenation, and envy. It’s also a color many of us may find ourselves wearing today in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day — and there’s a green for everyone.  Here’s some green inspiration to fill anyone with envy.

• Diane von Furstenberg Justin Dress – this wrap dress is super flattering on hourglasses and the print works well on even the print-averse.
• DKNY jersey knotted top in emerald. For those of you with cooler coloring, this would be fantastic.
• JCrew Cotton Cardigan in mint julep. That drink sounds good about now.
  Juicy Couture Green Multi Stone Ring – go for a larger size to fix on your index or middle finger.
• Marc by Marc Jacobs Script Hinge Bangle – this adds a great pop of color to any outfit.
• Miz Mooz Sachi Green pump – the green is perfect enough that it could almost be worn as a neutral. Try it with a black dress, jeans, tan pants — anything that needs some sprucing up.

Do you know how to wear a brooch?  Worried that it may be too close to ‘the girls’ and that people may think other things have fallen too? I’ve decided to demystify the process on how to wear a brooch to further avoid the “Pin the Tail on the Donkey” methods I’ve seen.

Kenneth Jay Lane Crystal Snake Pin – This is one hip pin that can be worn several ways.   I like the longer, narrower ones so that I have more versatility (see 4 below) and it’s a simple neutral metal so it can work with tons of fabrics and patterns.

Smitten Cowl Neck Sweater – The other day I saw someone wearing a heavy brooch on the turtle of her neck. Say that out loud without laughing.  In any case, it’s wrong because the weight of the fabric won’t hold the item and it’s the wrong focal point.  Do you really want people staring at your neck?  On heavy-weight tops with no lapels, place the pin close to the top of your shoulder — not on top, but close as shown.  This creates a nice movement for the eyes of your beholders.

7 For All Mankind Shrunken Blazer – This is made of a soft jersey knit and is perfect for throwing on as you run errands or need something casual chic for the weekend.  Wear the pin at the top of the collar right below the top notch, as shown.

JCrew Crew neck Cashmere Cardigan – The crew neck cardigans can get rather boring fast.  One way to pump up the style is to fasten the pin through the middle button-hole (underneath your bust) and thread it to it’s corresponding button.  Leave the rest of the buttons open.

Along with scarves and pinning them as pendants to your fab necklaces, what other ways do you wear your brooches?

Reader Question of the Week:

I’m going to Disney World in February and I’m wondering about shoes. I want to be comfortable because I will be on my feet for 12 hours at a stretch and nothing can ruin a good time like aching feet. But I’d also like it to look a step or two above a sneaker. Is there a shoe I can wear that will be comfortable AND stylish?

Wardrobe 911’s Style Prescription:

Finding great shoes to wear that will last you 12 hours is fairly easy.  Finding the stamina to stand for 12 hours straight may be a bit more difficult — especially on Day 2!  To make it a bit easier, I pulled together a few shoes that I know are comfortable AND stylish.

First off, I can’t tell you how many times I see a client’s eyes light up when she tries on the Tory Burch flat.  At first, they are “No way. I’m not wearing that logo on my foot.”  But…the shoe is really comfortable.  It’s certainly a contender and the Snake Print Reva Flats are a nice style to have for everyday, and they go up to 11.

Another shoe I love for comfort is Gentle Souls by Kenneth Cole.  The sole probably has about a half inch of padding.  They are really comfy and the black Buckle Bay flat is super versatile. It goes up to 11 but there are limited sizes online.

If you are more price conscious, then the more casual but still fun Skechers Sassies are great ($55, up to 11.)  If  you plan on hitting the water parks, then you want to wear a sandal. I love the padded soles on the Corso Como Santorini Sandal — it’s a stylish shoe and really dresses up shorts, capris, and dresses. ($90 up to 10.5)

For what to wear, try channeling Audrey Hepburn with a boat-neck tee (tons of colors at Old Navy) and these adorable Skimmer pants from J.Crew.  The pants go up to size 16 and are the perfect alternative to the ever-present shorts. Add a simple accessory like this animal print scarf – you can wear it long tied just once loosely, or in your hair as a headband (bobby pins not included.)

And, since you’re headed to Disney, did you know you can get one of your days comped by them?  This year, they’re running a great program called “Give and Get a Day at Disney.”  You need to sign up to volunteer for a day and then once your service is completed, you get a volunteer voucher for a day at Disney.  You can sign up the whole family and make a wonderful day of it.  They didn’t pay me to say this, I just thought it was a brilliant way of promoting volunteerism.

With  New Year’s Eve just a couple days away you might be scrambling to find an outfit.  Instead of buying a whole new outfit, try jazzing up your LBD (little black dress).  With just a few accessories your reliable LBD can help you ring in the new year!

• Rag & Bone’s Eva Dress on the left:

Pair your LBD with colored tights to get an instant pop of color.  Studded pumps by Steve Madden tie in the hardware from Jessica McClintock’s Chain Fringe Clutch.  This years statement necklace is a great way to finish off  your look.  Try this one from Liz Palacios.

BCBG MAXAZRIA’s Velvet Dress on the right:

Add a little texture to your LBD with these Laced Tights from SPANX, and a little color with Nordstrom’s Pleated Satin Clutch. Judith Jack’s Chandelier Earrings and metallic pumps from Dolce Vita will  keep you shimmering from head to toe!

Color not only plays an important role in your wardrobe but it also brings out your finest facial features. Why not bring out the best in you?  As Teresa mentioned in her previous post , one way to accomplish this is by wearing jewelry near your face that has colors that either mirror or complement your eye color. Take a close look at your eyes and you will notice more than one color.

Brown Eyes – I was surprised to find so many colors in my dark brown eyes. You may find traces of  mustard, olive, auburn, caramel, etc in your eyes. If you have specks of yellow or orange, try citrine or amber.

• Alex and Ani Amber Drop Earrings – these earrings would look pretty worn with your hair pulled back.

• David Yurman Citrine Albion Necklace – this  designer features the most incredible colored stones. A trendy alternative would be the Citrine Drop(not shown).

Blue Eyes – there is a range from pool blues to Mediterranean blues. There are even gray blues and you can find traces of green.

• Lucky Brand Faceted Chandelier Earrings – these crystals are a cool blue.

• GS Lillian Off-Set Flower Necklace – here is a lapis color for those deeper blue eyes.

Green Eyes – you may have thought there was only green in your eyes but look closely! You will probably find  yellow, mustard and lime-green.

• Rachel Lee Crystal Fringe Necklace – the citron color is a mix of yellow-green. This is definitely eye-catching.

• Emerald cabochon ‘Kajol’ chandelier earrings – these  “bollywood” inspired earrings would look great on a vibrant green eye gal.

Violet Eyes – I am sure there are some Elizabeth Taylor eyes out there or maybe you have traces of violet in your eyes.

• Tasha ‘Cleopatra’ Jeweled Bib in purple – this bib is perfect for the holiday parties and it comes in 3 colors.

A color consultation with a Wardrobe 911 personal stylist will also help determine the right colors for you. Contact a stylist directly about purchasing a  gift certificate. And don’t forget – we are offering 20% off Wardrobe 911 Body Type Recipe Boxes until 12/20/09. Just use coupon code GIFTW911 at checkout.

Although the myth was debunked by researchers that we lose most of our heat through our heads, it’s still a good idea to keep your head warm during the cold months of winter so your ears don’t fall off or whatnot.

If you haven’t worn a hat in while, now is the time to start considering adding a new element of style to your look.  No matter your age, there is a hat out there that will up your style quotient.  Here are a few we like:

1. Bop Basics Earflap Hat, $58.  The “Trapper” hat is the big trend of the season and you can find in it in a knit with pom poms or fur as shown in #2.  This particular hat looks best on square and oval faces.
2. Bop Basics Faux Fur Trapper Hat, $98. Uber popular this winter and I can see why.  Although this would look silly if you’re wearing a suit, it looks great for more casual outfits. The flatness of the top makes it work well for all face shapes.
3. Cableknit hat – Oatmeal heather, Banana Republic, $40.  This knit hat has a structured brim and pulls down by your ears. Warm and comfy.
4. The Slouchy Beret.  This is probably my favorite hat look which I plan on doing this winter.  Shown is Nightcap Clothing’s Cashmere & Lurex Beanie, $165.  But Hat Attack has a wonderfully priced chunky slouchy beret for $42. Might as well get a few in different colors!
5. Bop Basics Felt Fedora with Grosgrain Trim, $78. Made for gals, the brim is small and stylish enough to really pull off a cool look.
6. Felt Newsboy Cap, $48. If you have a long face, then the newsboy always looks good and balances out your length. This looks great on your way to work and then tucking into your bag once you arrive.
7. Juicy Couture Military Cap, $55. Military, schmilitary. These are pretty darn cute with a puffy coat and jeans.
8. Plaid Fedora by Brixton, $51.  For the man in your life, this particular style looks so hip and cool on a modernly dressed man. Yes, I realize Grandpa will also look good in it but it just has a different appeal when some handsome young guy is wearing it. It creates that Don Draper sigh.
9. Men’s Merino wool textured beanie, $40. If you’re a man and have a great square jawline, these wool knit beanies will look amazing on you.

What’s your favorite hat you plan on trying?

• UGG  Dakota slippers – UGG knows how to keep your feet warm and these slippers come in a variety of colors.
• LL Bean’s Wicked Good Moccasin – Known for their amazing customer service and lifetime guarantee, these slippers will last you a long time, plus keeping you warm.  Also in a variety of colors.
• Smartwool socks – Take it from a gal whose feet are like ice in 80 degree weather, these wool socks will not only keep your toes toasty, they are stylish and fun to boot. (pun intended)

Stay warm!

Here are some stylish gift ideas for under $100 to assist with your online shopping.

• Nine West Gabby Clutch in Drama Azure – the rosette adornment shows off your feminine side and you will get lots of compliments. It also comes in silver.
• Spring Street Design Group Handbag Hanger – this Crystal Pearl Flower handbag hanger is a fashion necessity when you are dining. This eye-catching hanger keeps your purse off the floor and I always have one with me.
• Dogeared ‘100 Good Wishes’ Boxed Necklace – Dogeared is a trendy label and their jewelry is consistently seen in fashion magazines. Each bead on the necklace represents a wish and you can wear it long or wrapped around your neck.
• Wardrobe 911 Recipe Box – Any fashion conscious gal would love this gift and it could even be for you! You can find out your body type or your friend’s body type by taking the body quiz.  Receive a holiday discount of  20% off all Wardrobe 911 Recipe Boxes (Hourglass, Rectangle, Triangle and Inverted Triangle). Just use coupon code GIFTW911 at checkout. Promotion is valid until 12/20/09.
• Laura Mercier Mini Lip Glacé Set – I love these colors and the size of these limited edition glosses!
• Juicy Couture Sequin Skinny Scarf – this stylish merino wool scarf is accented with sequins. It can be worn day or evening.
• Bop Basics Cashmere Long Fingerless Gloves – these are so soft and add a fashion statement. I even wear my fingerless gloves when I work at home.
• Sarah Princess Asian Flower Belt Buckle – Sarah Princess designs these artistic belt buckles. They can be worn with your jeans or low slung over a top.

Style Consultation

If you feel like splurging, then purchase a gift certificate for a style and color consultation for someone. Or perhaps you would like to add it to your wish list. A style consultation is a great way to start the new year! You can review the services our stylists offer and contact one for a gift certificate through the Find-A-Stylist directory.

Happy Shopping!

Although the larger laptops are great, they’re not so great when you’re looking for something stylish to carry them in.  I was looking for something reasonably priced, that could be used as a handbag, was lightweight, and it couldn’t have any logos on it.  Coach had some that worked but with their logo all over, I decided to keep searching.

I soon found one at Nordstroms that met all the requirements and fit my laptop perfectly: B. Makowsky’s Monaco tote.  It looks small but don’t let that fool you.  With beautiful, soft leather, a tiny bit of  hardware detail, side expansion zippers, and cute leopard print lining, this is one stylish bag. There are two pockets in front for keys and transportation tickets and an iPod pocket on the back.  It’s perfect for traveling!

B. Makowsky also has another large tote in a croc print that just came out — also worth investigating.  What do you carry your laptop in?

The latest, biggest, best-selling Diane von Furstenberg handbag has more hardware than found in a classroom full of teenagers with braces.

It’s also big enough to lose just about anything in it.  I’ve been mulling it over and although I love the style and cross-body hipness, there are two things that would keep me from purchasing it or recommending it to someone:

1. It’s going to hurt your shoulders after constant wear in about 3 to 6 months.  The old Marc Jacobs bags were like this and so heavy that everyone almost quit buying them here in SF -  just to take a stand for their back health.
2. It’s just too big. We already know that we will lose all kinds of things in this BUT if you’re under 5′5″ or petite, the bag will take over your body.  Think “body snatchers” for handbags. If you are tall and have the right proportions to wear something of this scale, go for it.

Varying Heights

• Tory Burch ‘Stowe’ Mid-Calf Boot – super cute on, these are the perfect boot over a straight leg or skinny jean. If you’re on a budget, here are some other great alternatives: the Frye Harness12R or the Type Z Lancely, both at Zappos.com.
• Taryn Rose Blue Suede Doolan boot – another mid-calf boot that is super sleek and great for your foot. This also comes in a yummy camel color. Remember, you get 20% off if you enter WARDROBE at checkout.
• Bourne ‘Cameron’ Bootie - in taupe suede with a snakeskin-printed heel and accents. This looks great under pants or with tights and dresses.
• Hive and Honey over the knee boot in black suede. With a tiny bit of stud detail at top, this has a great wedge heel to make your legs look long.  (Also in brown.)

Knee High Boots

• Corso Como Salvadore riding boot in a dark chocolate. A flat boot that has some classic details. It also comes in black.
• Rockport Harmony Heights suede boot in Bamboo – I am in love! Seriously. I can picture this with ivory jeans and a yummy ivory cashmere sweater — cafe au lait all the way.
• Calvin Klein Liv 3″ heel leather boot – the dressy work version of a boot. It’s perfect for wearing with tights and dresses or skirts.
• Naturalizer Smooth black boot – Another great option for work. There are many pluses and one negative to this boot. On the negative side, it is not leather. On the plus side, it is animal friendly, comes in brown and black, has a plus-shaft option, goes to size 12 and is only $99.

All-Weather Boots

• La Canadienne  waterproofed black leather boot. Known for their great cold-weather boots, this style is great for stomping around in the snow or rain.
• Aquatalia by Marvin K ‘Xenia’ Weatherproof Boot. For the rain or mild slush, try this waterproof fabric coated sleek mid-calf boot. It’s so elegant that you can even get away wearing it in the sunshine sans snow.
• UGG Snowpeak boot in gray. With a warm sheepskin interior and waterproof quilted fabric and leather — your toes will stay toasty even on the most blistery days.

It’s cold out and you’re inside today working from home.  Along with having the right office supplies, here’s a cute outfit that is warm, soft and still keeps you stylish should you want to venture out for a dog walk or grab a bite to eat.

Smitten Front Pocket Sweater – the fabric content is 79% nylon and viscose with only 5% wool and 16% angora so if you are allergic to wool , this could be a great option. The sleeves are perfect for someone who is broad shouldered and the pockets on front are not distracting.

Rich & Skinny Bootcut Legging Jeans – of course any jean would do but the Rich and Skinny jeans are so soft and comfy you will feel like you’re wearing your pajamas. I’m not kidding. In a mid-rise with a bootcut leg, these jeans are flattering for any body type.

Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star Slip-On – like slippers but with an edge. These are great for milling about the house. Of course, I’m all for the hip mid-calf boots and this Richmond style by Arturo Chiang certainly has appeal. Throw them on for your afternoon escape.

Because the outfit is dark, you want to add a bit of color. A red leather wrap bracelet by Marc Jacobs adds just the right amount of pop and it lays close to the wrist so no jangling or getting in the way of your keyboard.

The early fall season always brings some nice warm summery days. And with that, wearing something that works for the transitions are key.  Here we show some pieces that work individually for those Indian Summer days or that are easily layered together for a brisk Fall morning.

LAMade cotton voile tunic at an unreal price at BillionDollarBabes (hurry, it only lasts for 2 days.)  Cotton voile is the lightest, softest type of cotton made. Perfect for hot days layered over a simple tank, it makes a great transition to Fall when you layer it over a long-sleeve scoop-neck tee in a warm gray.

Pair it over these 7 for All Mankind high-waist jeans in the LA Dark wash.  Finally, the premium denim designers have heard our cry and the non-frumpy ‘high-waist’ jean is back.

Pull on some fab mid-calf boots by Vince Camuto in a dark slate. You can tuck your jeans in the boot for a on-trend look or wear them over the boot to create a long, lean leg line. For accesories, go for a pair of Kimberly Baker silver snowflake star earrings and a green convertible shopper by the Sak to punch it up.

The sweater dress is all throughout the stores this season and there’s something for everyone: some short, some knee length, some fitted and some drapey. Here we show two different styles and how to wear.

Cowl neck sweater dress by Rachel Pally. The dress comes in a black or berry color. This right-above-the-knee dress has blouson sleeves and follows the line of your curves. Pair it with:

• Agate pendant braided leather necklace
• Elegantly Waisted double belt in cognac adds some interest
• Ribbed wool tights in acorn paired with a yummy knee-high wedge BCBGirls tobacco suede boot

The Vince boyfriend sweater dress has cute pockets at the bottom and hits mid-thigh. It looks great on inverted triangles and even rectangles can wear because it floats over the tummy area. Because it is short, you want to wear a legging underneath. Try these thick and comfy Theory Stadium skinny pants – they provide more coverage than a legging and look super sleek.  Add some style with:

• Stormy blue and gray “Starry Nights” scarf
• Boots  look cute with this as well so try either a short ruched boot like Naturalizer’s black boot or go crazy with the over the knee boot trend with a Belle by Sigerson Morrison cuffed suede boot in gray.

Buying a substantial piece of jewelry is a scary proposition for many women, often dredging up negative self-talk: I shouldn’t spend the money on myself, I don’t really need it, I don’t deserve it. If you’re over 35 and haven’t dropped a few dollars on a classic strand of pearls, beautiful ring, fabulous gold necklace or distinctive pair of earrings for yourself, it’s high time you do. Adding a statement piece of fine, fashion or very good costume jewelry to your wardrobe is like adding framboise to champagne, ending up with a deliciously elegant kir royale.

My client I’ll call Wilhelmina is a case in point. At 47 she still wore a tiny sterling silver and turquoise ring an old boyfriend had given her back in college. Not only was the size of the ring out of proportion for this statuesque attorney, but it was completely out of whack with the professional and successful image she wanted to present to others. That minuscule reminder of days past was screaming to be replaced with something utterly fab that spoke to Wilhelmina’s engaging personality, body type and coloring.

With a warm color temperature, yellow gold looked much better on her than silver, so we looked at the following three possibilities. Click here to see which ring Wilhelmina chose.

• Judith Ripka Monaco Ring with turquoise and bezel set diamonds with diamond pave shank ($9200)
• David Yurman Turquoise Signature Ring with 18K gold bezel and sterling silver split shank ($1950)
• Simulated Turquoise and Crystal Star Ring from Carolee ($95)

The El Nino warnings have already started in the Pacific Ocean regions and so now’s the time to start hunkering down and make sure you’re ready for some wet weather this Fall and Winter.  Here’s an outfit that should keep you dry and comfortable on a bleak rainy day.

• Some “always skinny” black jeans.  Since you probably already have loads of dark wash jeans, get some in black. The skinny jean is super easy to wear underneath boots.
• Tunic turtleneck sweater. Perfect for over a skinny jean or legging, this sweater not only keeps your neck warm, it comes in a couple of other colors including a pretty, muted blue.
• Classic trenchcoat in gray. Prepare to spend a bit in this area — whether you go for the classic Burberry or a variation thereof as shown, you want this to last since you’ll wear it on an almost daily basis.
• Keep yourself warm with a wool/silk checkered blue ombre wrap and gray leather driving gloves.
• Other rain gear to have on hand: an automatic umbrella and a comfy, warm rainboot like this stylish Chooka Herringbone boot.

Maria loves purple and I love teal. Actually, I probably love them both equally as well because they look so good on most everyone.  But teal now has even more significance for me since it’s the color of the ribbon for Ovarian Cancer awareness.  And September is the month to remind you beautiful women to get checked.  I honestly never knew it could happen to anyone (no family history required!) and if you haven’t read Diana Jewel’s article about it over at goinggraylookinggreat.com, then do yourself a favor and get over there.  Very enlightening!!

Here’s a weekend outfit and an outfit for a wedding or special event that combines some of the beautiful teal that we’re now seeing in stores.

• Stretch Satin Dress – super flattering for an hourglass or triangle, this dress is great on the wallet and eyes.  Perfect for a celebratory event.
• Platform patent leather heel in teal – for those who love height, these look great with the dress or with a skinny jean.

• Mid-Rise cord trousers in a teal green is perfect as a neutral.  Thanks Old Navy!
• Create a complementary color harmony by wearing a brown swing cardigan.  Brown and teal look super rich together.
• Adding a brown flat (it also comes in teal!) and a teal tote by Marc by Marc Jacobs finishes the look.

For other color combos, try teal with rust or deep pumpkin or with violet or navy.  It looks sophisticated with gray and sleek with black.  If you typically wear a lot of black, invest in a teal scarf to add a bit of color.

Purple is the must-have color this fall! It is everywhere so I have included several stylish clothes and accessories along with some color tips.

Fortunately, purple is a color that everyone can wear. If your color temperature is cool or warm, you can take advantage of the purple trend this Fall.  Purple is a regal and savvy color that can be worn as a statement or as an accent piece. You just need to make sure that you wear the purple that flatters your dominant color temperature.  A grapey and darker purple is composed of  blue violets that would compliment  someone with a cool color temperature. A lighter, richer purple such as amethyst is composed of red violets that would flatter a person with a warm color temperature.

Color Harmony is important when you mix and match purples. You can wear a color next to violet on the color wheel (red or blue) for an analogous harmony or go to violet’s complement which is yellow (or gold!)

If you are not sure on how to determine your color temperature, please contact one of our stylists in the Find-A-Stylist section for a consultation. Or schedule a Style Workshop for you and your friends to learn more about color.

Accessories: Juicy Couture Ring, Tarina Tarantino Earrings, Flatiron Wristlet, Kate Spade Shoulder Bag, Cashmere Wrap, B-low the Belt

Clothes: Laurie B. Wrap, Maggie London Knit Dress, Satin Trench, Free People Slip Tank (not shown)

Shoes: Vince Kamuto Katana Suede Flat, Lynn Patent Peep Pump, KORS Michael Kors Booties

Make-Up (not pictured): Bobbi Brown Long Wear Gel Eyeliner – Violet Ink, Nars Purple Nail Polish, Dior-5 Colour Eyeshadow

I hope you have fun finding the perfect purple for your color temperature, style personality and outfits. Is purple your color?