Preview of my Fall 2013 Lookbook

Hi Girls,

I can't believe fall is here! I must admit that I love the slightly cooler weather that allows me to pull out my favourite knee high boots and various jackets and blazers.

Over the course of the next couple of months I'll be showcasing a few of my fall outfits. I'll create a fall lookbook that will feature two items: a black pair of capris and a brown A-line skirt. Each item will have multiple, unique pairings to create different looks appropriate for: work wear, weekend wear (more casual) and date night or girls' night out. I hope to show you that you can grow and build a very functional, mix and match wardrobe with just two foundational pieces, and how you can showcase your own personal flare. I'll describe why the black capris and the brown skirt work so well as foundational pieces and I'll break down each outfit so you can understand how to create a dynamic fall wardrobe for yourself!

To pique your interest I want to share this video from my recent fall fashion shoot in Paris. A big thank you to the following girls for their fantastic services:

Photography: by Sandra Enns, Fleuri Photography
Hair: by Donna Melo , Hair-Quality Hair Design - Donna's Facebook Page
Makeup: by Gigi, Gigi's Esthetics

cheers,

Kay

Try our video maker at Animoto.

Summer Wardrobe part a

Hi Girls,

Well believe it or not summer starts next week! Normally we'd have been wearing shorts for a month+, but not this year!! So if you are looking to complement your current summer wardrobe, check out these items below. This week, during my research, I noticed that there are some great sales to take advantage of.

My goal for writing about a summer wardrobe is to demonstrate the importance of using one or more neutral bottoms and blazers/cardigans (white, beige/light brown, brown, grey, and black) to create a truly mix & match wardrobe, which I like to call a foundational wardrobe. And why do we need to do this? - Because most of us are everyday ordinary women who have to be creative with the budget that we have. That's not to say that we don't buy those special one off pieces that don't fit into this category; but this is the starting point, or the foundation on which to add the more elaborate/patterned bottoms and/or cardigans/blazers.
These are the minimum items that create a mix/match summer wardrobe, so that when you buy something you are guaranteed to have other items with which to pair it, and which creates at least 3 outfits.

MINIMAL SUMMER WARDROBE:

• 1 pair of shorts in a neutral colour (casual or dressier, depending on your preference)
• 1 pair of pants in a neutral colour likely the same colour as your shorts (casual or dressier)
• A variety of tops (casual & dressy) but make sure either the shorts and/or pants are dressy
• 1 blazer or cardigan in a neutral colour (until you build on cardigans of other colours this is a fall back colour that will give you a more completed look)
• 1 blazer or cardigan in a colour that is prominent in your tops
• 1 dress (particularly a little black dress: it's important that the fabric is appropriate for all seasons of the year, otherwise you restrict its use - all of the ones I've chosen seem appropriate, but without actually seeing them in the store I cannot be 100%).
• (potentially 1 skirt in a neutral colour (casual or dressier, depending on your preference) (I did not include skirts due to lack of time).

Although it may seem boring, keeping to the same neutral colour for your 1 pair of shorts, pants and blazer/cardigan will give you optimal opportunities for mixing & matching, and adding in fun accessories, tops and shoes to create distinctive & creative outfits.

ADDING TO THE MINIMAL WARDROBE:
You could continue to add to your first neutral colour by adding in dressier or casual versions that you do not already have. Or another option is to then start building on a 2nd neutral colour.

So I think the next question is, which one or 2 neutral colours should I start building into my wardrobe? Black is always a good option unless you really don't like black. But before you make a decision be sure to lay out some of your most favourite tops, scarfs, and possibly your jewellery to help you determine which colour to start with.

MATCHING NEUTRALS
The other thing to consider, especially if some of your minimal items are different neutral colours, is to know which neutral colours match. You know that the neutrals match every colour, but not all the neutral colours match.

• White, beige, grey and black match each other.
• Brown works with beige but not with white, grey and black

Sometimes you will see someone wear black & brown together and it make look good, but I think this is more an exception than the rule.

Have fun looking over these items which I have chosen from various canadian retailers' websites. To view the retailer, item details/price, click on the collage of photos. Then my polyvore.com page will load containing all of these items and their associated detail (by either hovering over an item, or looking at the list of items down the right side of the screen). If the retailer's price is not listed, click on the item's link for the retailer's site. This link will take you directly to that item, and you will find additional details and the price.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to add a comment or email me at kayclaresaint@gmail.com. Please note that there is another blog entry below because I ran out of space!



SHORTS & PANTS (CASUAL & DRESSIER)
Below are examples of shorts and capris/pants in casual and dressier styles - in neutral colours.
I was unable to find dressier brown shorts and dressier brown pants. If I come across some, I will add them. For the black pants - there's a fine line between the two of them; both could be considered dressy, the "casual" ones are more fitted/skinny jeans, whereas the other ones are still fitted, but a bit more dressy.

IMPORTANT POINTS:
1. Again back to the issue of budget, I recommend you buy a pair of pants that you can wear year round. For example, the fabric would be more on the heavier than lighter side.
2. Choose pants that have 1 colour, not 2+ colours/tones e.g. a pair of brown pants may have a light and slightly darker brown or a pair of pants that have a pin stripe in a slightly different colour. When you have two colours it creates a sort of pattern and no longer represents a clean/fresh backdrop and will compete with your focal point item e.g. patterned top.
3.If you have to make a choice between casual or dressier shorts or pants, I definitely recommend leaning towards the dressier versions. You can typically wear a casual top with a dressier pair of shorts/pants but the converse is not true; you cannot get away with wearing a dressy top with casual shorts/pants. However, in saying that, you also have to balance that with your lifestyle and comfort.

(rows from top to bottom: casual shorts, dressier shorts, casual pants, dressier pants)

 

CASUAL TOPS
A variety of colours and styles are represented here. I absolutely love the Joe Fresh t-shirts. This spring I haven't purchased any, but the fabric, stitching, colours and pattern options are fantastic considering the price of approx. $10.

 

Summer Wardrobe part b

DRESSY TOPS
I have been disappointed with the lack of variety of dressier tops this season. On the bright side Le Chateau's halter top is available in white, light blue and pink. This neckline is so feminine and so fitting for the summer. In my search I couldn't find any other halter tops. And yes, I like black! :)

 

CARDIGANS/SHRUGS & JACKETS/BLAZERS
Cardigans & jackets often complete an outfit, whether it's to look a bit more professional at work, or just to add a bit of warmth on a summer evening. As I noted in the first part of this blog, as a starting point I recommend you have a cardigan or jacket in a neutral colour, and have another in your favourite colour (assuming you have multiple tops containing your favourite colour). Then build from there...

IMPORTANT POINT: Short versus Long: Unless you are very tall, opt for the shorter version. The shorter version will be much more flattering on you. All the lengths represented here are super; I do not have an example of a shrug (cardigan) because I could not find one. They are even shorter and work very well for more formal outfits.


 

SUMMER DRESSES
Some of these are more dressy than others so if you search for a summer dress; choose one that fits your lifestyle for this summer.



SUMMER LITTLE BLACK (& WHITE & SILVER ) DRESSES
If a little black dress is not already hanging in your closet, you may want to consider buying one. A LBD (little black dress) is so versatile assuming the fabric is appropriate for all year wear. You can lighten or bold it up with an accent colour e.g. either a light, airy or a bright, primary colour.
However, if you choose a silver & black dress I recommend you chose accessories in these colours. The white & black dresses are a bit more versatile; again you could probably add in a third accent colour.

IMPORTANT POINT: For this to be a lovely and feminine outfit, ensure it tapers in at the waist so that it accentuates your feminine figure. Or if you are more self-conscious about your tummy, a higher waistline, like an empire waist (it is tapered just below the bust) is a better choice since it still creates definition.

Turning Winter Blahs into Ahhhhs!

Now in the midst of January, unless there's some balmy weather like we had today so that you can enjoy the outdoors, or unless you're an avid skiier - what's a girl to do to fight the winter blues???... Shop of course!  I absolutely love shopping in January/February. The deals are unbelievable!! I typically buy my daughter's wardrobe for the upcoming Fall/Winter season with items costing a half or more of the original price. But of course, I also like treating myself to something nice - and now is the PERFECT time to hunt online and in the stores for the perfect LBD. Yes, the "Little Black Dress". I admit the selection may be diminished, but if you take the time now you won't regret it. You'll be relieved when you find out you are invited to summer wedding and are confident that you don't have to go on a shopping escapade, or you will be all set for the upcoming Christmas season. Yes, it's a long way off, but you won't regret it. 
So, now your mandate is to scour the stores looking for the perfect LBD, but what does it look like???

The Perfect LBD

• Medium weight fabric to allow you to wear it all year round: Imagine converting the dress into a summer or winter top - if the material seems to be appropriate for both extremes, then you're good
• Sleeveless or short sleeves: You can always add a fabric or fur shrug/bolero to accomodate the cooler temperatures, while showing off those arms in the summer
•  Medium to low neckline: A neckline that shows a bit of skin allows you to choose an array of necklaces to showcase, giving you a number of variations.
• Tapered Waist: A beautiful LBD is one that defines a waist, which is fundamentally required to create the feminine hourglass figure
• Hem Suitable for Summer Wear: There's a wide range of acceptable hemlines that would work. The only one that might not be suitable is one closer to full length. It's not as practical on hot summer days
• Well tailored seams and hems
• Feel beautiful and confident in it!!!

I've included a couple examples of "Little Black Dresses" from two popular canadian retailers.
.

1.  Classic Fit and Flared Dress, Jacob (www.jacob.ca) $64.50 (originally $129)


WHAT I LIKE:
 *Appropriate for Year Round Wear: The Material appears to be appropriate for year round wear - medium weight (Polyester, Viscose and Elastane mix)
*Built In Lining: In my experience dresses with linings tend to flow off the body and being that they have linings, tend to be better made
*Neckline: This boat type neckline is very soft, feminine and classy.
*Defined Waist: The waist is very clearly defined - beautiful!
*Skirt Shape: This A-Line shape flows off the waist and skims the hips, which is very flattering
*Hemline: Sits just above the knee so it shows off your legs

WHAT I DON'T LIKE:
*Neckline: Since the neckline is quite high, you're limited to a choker type necklace or a longer length necklace that falls just above or below the bust. The necklace could end at the bust but it will emphasize your bust.

VERDICT:I absolutely love this dress! It's a classic, and reminds me of Audrey Hepburn. It's modest and absolutely stunning! However, it's certainly geared more to a slimmer frame due to the thin belted waistline.


2. Double V-Neck Ruched Feather Trim Dress, Laura Plus (www.laura.ca) $129.99
 (originally $195)

 WHAT I LIKE:
 *Appropriate for Year Round Wear: The Material appears to be appropriate for year round wear - medium weight(Polyester and spandex mix). The material on the top is soft and femine, while the skirt is a stiff elegant crepe like material. Even though the skirt is crepe like, I think it could be worn well in the summer.
*Crinolin Lining: Again, having the built in lining provides beautiful and a flattering bottom half.
*Neckline: Wow!! What a breathtaking neckline. It seems to mould perfectly to the cleavage line while still being very classy and elegant.
*Defined Waist: This ruching/gathered material in the middle creates a waist, even when you don't think you have one.
*Skirt Shape: Again, this is an A-line, but not as pronounced as the dress above. But you can see how it again drops from the waist and gracefully skims the hips, creating a beautifully feminine shape.

WHAT I DON'T LIKE:
*Skirt Hemline: I'm not sure I'm crazy about the feathers that frame the bottom of the skirt.

VERDICT:
This is a dress that will likely flatter the full spectrum of body shapes! Beautiful, classy with flare. However, I'd probably pluck off those feathers! :)

Have fun shopping for your LBD! I'd love to know what you find. Send me a  photo! :)                                                                    

Welcome to My Blog!

Hi Everyday Extraordinary Woman,

Welcome to my blog! I am just beginning this blog and my business. I aspire to provide the average, everyday mom and working woman with practical information and tips to equip her with the knowledge to dress her best!

Now that I'm a mom, I find it's even more challenging to look "put together" with less prep time in the morning!  Not only do I have to be strategic about planning across all aspects of life but also with my wardrobe, and I'm guessing I'm not the only one who finds it challenging!

My mission is to provide you with practical everyday fashion advice! 

Do you have a favourite piece of clothing or accessory that you love but don't know how to pair it with other items to create a dynamic look? I hope to provide you with practical advice on how you can pair those favourite items.  Just send me a photo of a  clothing item or accessory and I will give you some pairing suggestions that will compliment the piece and makes you look good!! I will periodically blog on submissions. Let's have some fun!!! Email me at: kayclaresaint@gmail.com 

When you send your photo tell me:
1.The purpose of the outfit: weekend wear, date night, career wear etc.
2. A few words describing your style

I have a cute, little, red leather jacket that's one of my favourites! Since we're heading into fall (yes I know it's not yet summer but I LOVE the Fall), I thought I'd give you an example of a classic and simple outfit with a jacket very similar to mine.

Here's a simple outfit with jeans paired with a white, dressy, feminine top, a sleeker pair of black boots, a gorgeous red leather jacket, and cute accessories (bracelet, earrings and bow belt).

(Photo of Kay by Sandra Enns, Fleuri Photography) 

 

Do you have a favourite Fall look? Tell us about it.