Kay Hunter - Imagine . . . The Possibilities

Top Trends For Men: Spring 2013

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Fashion trends for men this spring are starting to show up in everyday wear. Take a look at what's happening in men's fashion:

1) Camouflage

2) Stripes

3) Neon/Bright colors

4) Squared-off Sunglasses (think: Ray-Bans)

5) Tighter fit (don't go overboard! Comfortably tighter fit.)

6) Oxford Shoes With A Pop of Color

All of these trends are wearable and of-the-moment. Taking one or two of these ideas and incorporating them into your wardrobe will keep you on-trend and looking good!

Need assistance with your Spring Closet Cleaning or Creative Shopping? CALL NOW! 714-665-8866

CLOSET AUDIT/WARDROBE CONSULTATION:

Let's shop in your own closet! Do you wonder whether you should keep an item or an outfit, and are not sure which items you need to fill in the gaps? We will make selecting what to wear every day stress-free. We go through your closet, and determine what works and what you should donate. Your clothes will be organized to save you time dressing and increase your clothing options. A shopping list will be created outlining the specific items you are missing to make the most of your wardrobe and dollars.

"I must admit I was a little nervous about my Closet Audit appointment with Kay.  I felt like I needed to clean up my closet before Kay arrived - totally not necessary!  Kay made the process fun, efficient and so productive. When we were finished I felt cleaner, lighter and had several new ensembles that she magically pulled together in my closet -  which I would have never thought about wearing before."

Terry Smith - VP Marketing

Spring Cleaning = Spring Savings

Ever heard of the 80/20 rule?  Most people wear 20% of their clothes 80% of the time. This means 80% of your clothes are simply taking up valuable space in your closet! Not to mention the cost per wearing dollar amount of the 80% is quite high. These are clothes you probably should have never purchased. Although, you might be able to utilize some of the pieces once you can see them again or coordinate them with something different.

Imagine being able to go shopping in your own closet, and coming out with terrific new pieces!  You may still need a few key items, but you will not have to start from scratch for the Spring/Summer season ahead. This task has two big benefits: #1: You will have a closet in which you can see everything inside in an organized system. #2: You will create your own store, in which every item is perfect for your coloring, body proportion, and personal brand image. Let's get started 

Store Away Winter Items: If you are cramped for space, it is best to store away your heavy winter coats, sweaters, and boots. Take care of the clothes you will be putting into storage.  For instance, make sure everything is freshly laundered or dry-cleaned. This will make sure they are in perfect shape for the next winter season.

Use Proper Hangers: Recycle your wire hangers. Buy Huggable Hangers (Container Store) or Real Simple Slimline (Bed, Bath and Beyond), they really will provide you with more space. Good hangers protect your clothing, guard against stretched shoulder seams, and provide equal importance to each item. Hang all your clothes in the same direction.

Edit, Edit, Edit: Take a look at every single item in your closet and keep only those clothes that are wonderful. Ditch the rest! Don't make excuses for an outfit bought on sale that didn't quite fit (and still doesn't), or the well-meaning gifts from people who know your name, but not your color palette or taste in style. Just because something was great a few years ago does not mean it is great today! Tip: Hang all your hangers from the outside of the rod. After you have worn an item, hang the hanger from the inside of the rod. Take note after six months, if the hanger hook position has not been changed, the item goes away (items will still be facing the same direction, simply the top of hanger will be facing the other direction). This will not work with the plastic hangers, as the top hook will not rotate.

Color Code: Arrange everything in your closet by category (jackets, tops, pants, dresses, etc.), and by your color palette from dark to light. Start with all black items, then brown, reds, blues, ivory, and ending with white. Your closet should look like a new box of Crayola crayons. This arrangement lets you be more creative to mix and match, pairing items together that were mere acquaintances in the past.

Hang or Fold? A client just emailed this question and I thought it was great. She wanted to know if casual tops for she and her husband could be folded or if they should be hung. What you fold and put in a drawer will not be as visible and hence not utilized as much in your wardrobe. In an ideal world, hanging all your clothes is best. Since space limitations do not always make this feasible, you can fold your jeans, camisole tops and your "wash the car type T-shirts" on a shelf or in a drawer.  Sweaters are also good to fold, as the thick styles really do take up a lot of room. Note, some very fine gauge sweaters can "grow" longer if they are hung. These are always best to fold. Most of the time, if you edit your wardrobe properly you will have room to hang most of your items. 

Accessories & Shoes: Arrange your accessories so they are visible. Men, one of the best tie racks is the motorized model that rotates. It holds 64 ties and 6 belts, and keeps your ties wrinkle free. The tie rack sells for approximately $28.99, at www.stacksandstacks.com. Ladies, hang belts and necklaces on a standard tie rack. Or, just put a row of nails on your closet wall and hang a necklace over each nail head. Earrings should be placed in a shallow container - ideally made for earrings with little square separations. You can also use flat baskets and stack them on a shelf in the closet, on top of a bureau, or in a top dresser drawer. The best choice for shoes is to have them out of the box on graduating shelves. If you don't have this luxury, keep your shoes in clear plastic boxes.  Label for easy identification, a picture label is best. Wooden shoetrees are a must to maintain the condition and shape of your shoes.

Get Creative: Try pairing a jacket with your khakis or jeans. Guys, wear one of your colored or patterned dress shirts with jeans and a cool pair of retro tennis shoes or an updated loafer or oxford. Ladies, get out a basic solid blouse, pair it with a classic pair of pants, add a bold scarf, and add pizzazz with an unexpected bright shoe. Or, open the blouse, add a colorful camisole, and accent your waist with a twisted scarf that picks up the camisole color. Shoes no longer have to match your handbag or even your outfit! Be creative and experiment.

Missing Item List: Make a list of "incomplete" items, such as the ensemble that needs an updated pair of shoes, a colorful shirt, or the right accessory. You may also want to add just a few of the season's hot items to your list, to update your look.    

Congratulations! You are the proud owner of an orderly closet. You have a strategic shopping list that will bring your wardrobe together versus just adding more of the same items. If you love something, you do not need three of the same item - sound familiar? You can see all of your favorite clothes, with no bad apples in the bunch, so choosing something to wear is now easy, quick and fun!

How To Take Care Of Your Shoes and Boots And Extend Their Longevity

Statistics show that 93% of a first impression is based on how you look.The condition of your shoes sends a loud signal about "you"! If your shoes are in prime order, it says you pay attention to details. If your shoes are scuffed, unpolished, tattered or old, it says nothing positive about you. It doesn't pay to have on high-end shoes if you do not take good care of them. A mid-priced selection will look more expensive if it is kept in good condition. With a little knowledge and a few dollars, preventive maintenance can make those nice shoes last a lot longer and save you money in the long run!

Store Boots Properly: I have several pairs of boots and for years did not know how to organize them inexpensively in my closet during the winter months. This was compounded by the fact that the boots "flopped" over and took up more room. The flopping position is also not recommended for keeping boots in their proper shape. Last year I found some good solutions:  

 

 
The Container Store offers inflatable cushion/shapers (left) for $10.Storables.com  offers metal clip (center) that holds the boots together.  Other no cost options are empty water and wine bottles placed inside the boot. Another solution is rolled up magazines (right).  Simply roll up a couple magazines and place them down into your boots and they will stand up straight. 

Treat Suede and Leather with Water Repellent Spray: Before you wear your new pair of shoes, be sure to apply a coat or two of water repellent spray. This process should be applied again after a couple months. Be sure to wipe your shoes with a clean cloth to remove any surface dirt before your spray. On leather shoes, the moisture impacts the elasticity, so keeping moisture balanced is a must; too much moisture causes the leather to stretch, while too little moisture causes the leather to shrink. In both cases, the leather becomes ugly and loses its original fit. Your local shoe repair shop can do this for you, although it is basically the same process you can do at home for as little as $9! This process can dramatically increase the comfort and the lifespan of your leather and suede shoes.

Polish Regularly:  A lot of women think this is something only men should do, but it applies to all of us who wear leather shoes. Polishing your shoes regularly has two benefits: it covers and repairs the damage of daily wear and tear and it nourishes and moisturizes the leather, keeping it flexible and healthy.  

 

Use Shoe Trees:  Placing cedar shoe trees in your shoes right after each wearing will extend the life of your shoes threefold! The shoe tree absorbs the moisture from your shoes and forms the shoes back to its original state. Hence, it keeps the shoes from getting those permanent creases where the foot flexes that makes your shoes look old and out of shape. Ideally, you would have a pair of shoe trees for every shoe you own, but if that is not practical, simply rotate the shoe trees each time you wear a different shoe. Bed Bath and Beyond $19.99.

Heel and Toe Tips: Based on how most of us walk, we wear down one particular area on our toe and heel. Your local shoe repair can place a small tap or tip on these areas and extend the life of your shoe. Nothing looks more tacky than to see a pair of heels worn down to the nail heads. 

For Men Only - A Fun Fashion Sock Trend

Men, a fashion trend has developed that is fun, stylish, and easy - colorful and somewhat loud socks! Recently The New York Times described the sock trend this way: "It signals that you are part of the in crowd. It's like a secret handshake for those who have arrived, and for those who want to."

Eric Jennings, the men's fashion director at Saks Fifth Avenue said "Men have really been embracing socks lately. The more novelty, the brighter or bolder the pattern or color, that's what men are buying."

The thinking seems simple enough. Distinctive socks are a clever and easy way to add a little personality to your look without going overboard.

How to Select and Wear the Perfect Dress Shirt

"You never get a second chance at a first impression." - Emily Post

Research shows that visual presentation counts for more than half of the impression we make on others.  In most cases, when your visual image is top notch, it will be assumed that you possess all other talents, personality and characteristic traits that accompany that image.  Selecting the best dress shirt for your physique, and wearing it properly, is integral to presenting a successful image!

Button-Down or Spread Collar? - A button down-collar is considered informal and academic and should never be worn for evening events.  A spread collar is considered the dressiest collar.  The spread of the collar should be selected based on your face shape.  If you have a round face, select a narrower spread collar with longer collar points.  If you have a long face, select a wider spread collar with shorter collar points.  Men with a short neck should purchase shirts with a shorter collar and men with long necks should select shirts with a higher collar to create a visual balance.

T-shirt or No T-shirt? - The choice as to whether or not to wear an undershirt is really a matter of personal preference and style.  You may decide to wear an undershirt for reasons of warmth, comfort, hygiene or style.  A few reasons to consider wearing a T-shirt include the following.  If you perspire, the T-shirt will keep your dress shirt looking fresh and less wrinkled.  The T-shirt will also keep your shirt from unsightly underarm stains.  If your shirt is light color or slightly see through, the T-shirt will keep the world from viewing your nipples! 

What About French Cuffs, Pockets and Short Sleeves?  - French cuffs send a message of class, so you need to be keenly aware of your audience.  If you are going to be in a more casual environment I do not recommend French cuffs, as you will appear overdone or flashy.  If you are at a formal business function or an evening event the French cuffs will make you stand out from the crowd looking marvelous.  Dress shirts worn with a suit should not have a pocket.  Keep your business cards, etc., in your coat pocket or briefcase and never wear a short sleeve dress shirt!
 
What About Color and Pattern?  - Color is great, although avoid extreme colors such as dark blue, burgundy, or black.  Various shades of blue, peach, soft yellow, pink, and lavender are all good choices.  Anyone can wear a solid shirt, but stripes and checks can add variety and personality to your ensemble.

Does Your Shirt Fit Properly? - Know your body. . .  If you are trim wear a tapered shirt.  If you are trying to hide an extra 10+ pounds, definitely wear a full-cut shirt (no one wants to look at the shape of your belly button!).  If you are wearing a tie you must be able to put two fingers between your collar and your neck, otherwise, your shirt is too tight.  Conversely, if you can fit your more than two fingers in between the collar and your neck, the shirt is too big!   The sleeve length should extend ¼ to ½ inch beyond your jacket. 

You are better off to wear a mid-priced shirt that is the right style and fit for you, versus wearing an expensive designer shirt that does not work best for your face, neck, and body shape.  Custom made shirts are a great investment, and should definitely be considered for those of you who are hard to fit or desire unique styling accents/options.

Tea Hats, Cocktail Hats - how to select the one that fits your style and face.

Charity Tea season is upon us.  As author and professor Grace Margaret Morton put it in 1943, "So when the mood of today's hats seem frivolous it may be a kind of singing in the dark, the expression of an effort to put a bit of gaiety into a world burdened with problems."  I feel this holds true today.

(Hat at left by Louise Green from her Spring 2012 Collections.)

Consider the "total effect" when selecting a hat. Look at yourself close up to make sure the hat is flattering to the face. You may want a bit more brim if you have a bit more width in your face. How does it work with your hair? Do you have a fuller style or something close to your head or pulled back? Bangs or no bangs? You should also look at yourself in a full length mirror, as most people will see your figure standing. You should also keep your body size in mind. A huge hat can overpower a small framed wearer, just as a tiny doll hat might look silly on a queen-sized lady.

Investing in quality shoes? Invest in quality shoe trees.

Your appearance begins at your head and ends at your toes - this includes your shoes. Investing in a couple pairs of good business shoes is only the beginning. You need to also take care of those loafers, boots and heels. After you are finished for the day and are ready to kick off those shoes, the first thing you should do is to insert shoe trees. Not the plastic type, the cedar ones so they absorb perspiration and help your shoes 'cool down' and go back to their original shape. Wait until morning and it's too late. The wrinkles are in and your shoes start to take on that worn look. Don't forget to love them with some shine and moisture. Find the products that are ideal for your shoe or boot.

Some resources include:

Cedarville Store

Woodlore on Zappos.com

Remember, you don't need shoe trees for all of your shoes, you can rotate one or two pairs as you wear shoes. Put them in right away - when you take off your shoes is recommended.

How to Buy the Perfect Pair of Jeans: Men & Women

Buying the right pair of jeans for your needs and body type is not an easy task! Slim, skinny, straight, relaxed, classic, standard - the name of jeans can sure be confusing! For many of us, jeans are the one item most worn in our wardrobe. They are so versatile - they can be worn from around the house, to work, to dining out or on a casual outing. When searching for the perfect pair of jeans, there are a few key tips to remember.

Are you the kind of friend who can give a dose of truth?

Sometimes I wonder where the friends are of the people who need to rethink their appearance. I'm not talking about expensive vs. moderately priced clothing or someone who is struggling with their weight. I'm talking about when you pick up your friend to go out for an evening and the outfit she's chosen is not flattering or conveys the wrong message. Would you tell her?

What if his hair was looking shabby or his cologne is so strong you'll be struggling to make eye contact without tearing up? Would you tell him?

If personal hygiene has taken a backseat lately, or your friend is looking unkempt due to lack of sleep, new medication, new baby, going out too often; would you tell them that you are concerned?

What if your friend was still wearing clothes that looked better when he or she was 20 pounds lighter and there are more flattering choices they could make for social and business occasions? Would you tell them?

Here's the big question:

Do you have friends or colleagues that would be caring enough to tell you the same?

This is not a time for "yes men." You need a true friend to keep you from embarrassing yourself or potentially harming your career. If you can't think of a few off the top of your head, you need to find at least a couple of them FAST. With smartphones, it's easy to call up a friend, and show them what you are considering for that important interview, first date, business meeting or event. You'll get the hang of it after a while. For now, you need someone who will be frank with you for the right reasons. Ideally a spouse or best friend. It might not work out that way.  Your mother or grandmother?

Then, remember how grateful you were to receive their help; and make sure you return the favor.

If you don't have anyone in your corner who is any better at personal style than you, consider hiring a professional to get you started down the right path.  A professional image consultant can help you learn which items are best for your specific coloring, body proportion and personal brand or sytle. They will clean out your closet, evaluate your makeup and accessories even help you refill the closet with a precise selection of items that will always leave you looking your best!

 

 

Spring Fashion Colors - Time to add a spark to your wardrobe

Bold color blocking is one of the big trends this spring. It's a great way to break up what is "expected" and draw attention while showing that you are up on the most current style.  Here are some examples in case you are unclear about the term, "color blocking."

Some of the new colors are more exciting than in recent years - even their names invite celebration:

	Tangerine Tango is a warm neutral. Yes, orange can be a neutral color and strong base.
	Solar Power pairs beautifully with driftwood, cockatoo and tangerine tango.
	Bellflower is a soft purple, but not blue like a periwinkle
	Sodalite Blue brings that denim factor and rich base into any outfit.
	Margarita (regular, not strawberry)
	Sweet Lilac perfect to soften up bellflower or compliment driftwood and margarita.
	Cabaret - a vibrant pink that will get you noticed.
	Cockatoo is a type of aqua.  Most of the cockatoos I've seen are white, but I'm no bird expert.
	Starfish is a sort of warm, taupey brown.  I think of orange when I think of a starfish, but that speaks to my limited visits to the Long Beach Aquarium.
	Driftwood is a gray taupe. Its lovely paired with any of the very vibrant colors.